Conn. native killed in Afghanistan

HARTFORD, Conn. (WTNH) -- An Army Specialist born in Connecticut was killed while on patrol in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.

Army Specialist Philip C.S. Schiller, 21, was killed on April 11 when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire.

"My thoughts are with Specialist Schiller's family at this devastating time," said Governor Malloy in a written statement. "While Spc. Schiller no longer lived in Connecticut, we remember him as our own and honor his sacrifice and his courage. We lost a hero in battle, and our prayers are with Spc. Schiller's unit and the other men and women who are overseas in service to this nation."

"Spc. Schiller's life was lived with bravery, with commitment and with honor and every Connecticut citizen should stop to reflect what his sacrifice means to all of us," said Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman. "My heart goes out to his family as they deal with this terrible loss of their loved one who died defending the country he loved."

Spc. Schiller was born in Connecticut, but he moved to The Colony, Texas where he joined the 1st Battalion, 23rd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Division out of Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. His father still lives in Connecticut.

He has been awarded the Purple Heart, Bronze Star Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and the Combat Infantryman Badge (CIB).

Flags will be lowered on the day of his burial. Funeral details are pending.