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A McAllen soldier has died in the line of duty while serving overseas in Afghanistan.

Officials have confirmed that 24-year-old U.S. Army Spc. Kurt Kern died in the line duty.

Family members told Action 4 News that they were notified about their son's death on Tuesday.

The Kern family said in a statement that their son was on a mounted patrol when their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device, or IED.

Kern graduated from McAllen Memorial High School in 2006.

Action 4 News has learned that Kern also played for the McAllen Memorial Mustangs football team under jersey number 51.

Kern also attended the Texas Culinary Academy in Austin where he graduated in 2008.

The McAllen native later joined the U.S. Army where served as a member of the military police.

Kern is the 43rd Rio Grande Valley service member to die in the line of duty.

Action 4 News will provide more information as it becomes available.

Kern Family Statement:

Yesterday, December 27th 2011, our family was deeply saddened by the news that our brother SPC. Kurt Kern was killed in action while serving our country in Afghanistan.  While on mounted patrol the vehicle Kurt was riding on struck an IED, causing him fatal injuries.

Kurt was loved by all who knew him.  He was always smiling and had a positive outlook on life.  He loved to joke and his presence always brightened the room.  He always put others before himself and did everything he could to help those who needed it.  His dream since childhood was to serve and defend our country, and he was proud to be a soldier in the United States Army.  His bravery shined bright when after his original deployment was canceled, he volunteered to deploy with another unit.  This is a great loss for his family and friends.  He will be greatly missed by all those whose lives he touched.

We thank you all for your support and condolences as you mourn this loss with us, and we ask that you respect our privacy during our time of grief.
 
Thank You
Kern Family

McAllen ISD Statement:

The McAllen ISD family has lost one of its own. It has been reported that Kurt Kern, a 2006 graduate of McAllen Memorial High Schooll, has passed away while serving his country overseas in the US armed forces. Kurt played football and loved to cook. Our heart-felt condolences go out to his friends and family.

-- James Ponce, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools