White Lake soldier died in Afghanistan

By FRITZ MAYER

WHITE LAKE, NY — Flags flew in Albany at half-staff on March 15, and for longer periods at the Sullivan County Government Center and the town hall in the Town of Bethel.

The flags were lowered in honor of private first class Jason Kropat, of White Lake, who died on March 9, while serving in Afghanistan. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, Kropat died from wounds suffered when his unit came under small arms and rocket fire in Khowst Province. He was an infantryman assigned to C Company, 1st Battalion, 187th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team. Sergeant Jonathan J. Richardson, 24, of Bald Knob, AK was also killed in the incident.

Kropat, who was 25, joined the army in November 2008. He earned numerous awards during his short time in the service including a National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Weapons Qualification, M4, expert.

He grew up with his three sisters and lived most of his life in Smallwood. His parents now live in Texas. Kropat was described by those who knew him as a local guy who liked to fish. But he was also a hero who believed deeply in the effort he was making for his country overseas.

Governor David Paterson said, “I extend the sympathies and heartfelt condolences of all New Yorkers to the family, friends and fellow service members of Private First Class Jason Kropat,” Paterson said. “We are deeply saddened for the loss of this young soldier, but we sincerely thank him and his family for their selfless service to this nation.”

A wake will take place on March 18 from 2:00 p.m. through 9:00 p.m. at the VanInwegen-Kenny Funeral Home in Monticello. The funeral will be held on March 19, at 12:00 p.m. at the Reformed Presbyterian Church on State Route 17B in White Lake. Burial, with military honors, will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery in Bethel.