Remains of Fort Bragg paratrooper found on NC coast

FORT BRAGG, NC (WTVD) — The remains of an 82nd Airborne Division paratrooper were found near Cape Lookout National Seashore on May 29.

Spc. Enrique Roman-Martinez, 21, of Chino, Calif., was a human resource specialist assigned to Headquarters Company, 37th Brigade Engineer Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division.

Roman-Martinez had been missing since Memorial Day weekend.

“We are deeply saddened by Spc. Roman-Martinez’s untimely passing,” said Lt. Col. Scotty Autin, commander, 37th Brigade Engineer Battalion, in a written statement. “He was well-liked by those who served alongside him. Spc. Roman-Martinez had a great attitude and the tragedy of is loss is felt by all of us. Our sympathies are with his family, friends, and fellow paratroopers – especially his mother and sister who flew from California to be here.”

According to a news release from the 82nd Airborne Division, remains washed up on Shackleford Banks Island, part of the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Investigators said remains had unfortunately washed ashore in this area in previous years.

The soldier was identified by dental records.

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