5/23/2005
SSG Russell James Verdugo was killed on 23 May 2005. SSG Verdugo was assigned to the 767th Ordnance Company (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), 63rd Ordnance Battalion (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), 52nd Ordnance Group (Explosive Ordnance Disposal), 20th Support Command (CBRNE). SSG Verdugo responded to a report of an improvised explosive device found in Baghdad, Iraq. SSG Verdugo was walking towards a group of people awaiting arrival of the Explosive Ordnance Disposal team, when he stopped and looked down at the curb. SSG Verdugo bent over for a closer look when a detonation occurred. The detonation was thought to have been from an improvised explosive device consisting of a 152mm high explosive projectile. No evidence of the trigger was found. SSG Verdugo was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart Medal.
*This bio was researched and authored by SGM Mike R.Vining, USA (Retired). Please send any additional information and/or corrections to the author of this bio by email: sgmmvining@gmail.com. The EOD Wounded Warrior Foundation is not responsible for the accuracy of the information in bio.