United States Army PFC Eric Daniel Soufrine was born on October 16, 1990, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and was raised in Woodbridge. From childhood he was known for his size — standing 6 feet 5 inches tall — but even more so for his gentle nature, sense of humor, and genuine caring for others. Eric grew up loving the outdoors with family and friends, enjoying activities such as hunting, fishing, boating, water‑skiing, and skeet shooting with his father. He was also athletic in school and played football, lacrosse, and baseball, cultivating close friendships and a strong connection to his hometown community.

Eric graduated from Amity Regional High School in 2009, where teachers, coaches, and classmates remembered him as a friendly, intelligent young man with a bright smile and a good heart. After graduation, inspired by a deep sense of patriotism and a long‑standing desire to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Army on May 11, 2010. Eric completed basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and advanced individual training as a Fire Support Specialist at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, graduating in September 2010.

Assigned to Battery B, 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado, PFC Soufrine deployed to Afghanistan in December 2010 in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Known among his fellow Soldiers for his infectious enthusiasm to learn, his dedication to duty, and his ability to uplift others, he was promoted to Private First Class during his deployment and earned recognition as Soldier of the Month on May 28, 2011. His commanders noted his professionalism, willingness to listen, and tireless commitment to performing at his best.

On June 14, 2011, while conducting a mounted patrol in Farah Province, Afghanistan, Pfc. Eric D. Soufrine’s vehicle struck an improvised explosive device (IED) at a river crossing in Shewan Garrison Village. He lost his life while serving at just 20 years old — a profound loss felt deeply by his family, friends, and fellow Soldiers. At the time of his death, he was nearing the completion of his tour and looking forward to returning home to continue his life, including plans to attend college and pursue a career in forestry.

Eric’s funeral and memorial services brought together family, friends, community members, and military personnel, who gathered to honor his bravery and service. Flags were ordered to fly at half‑staff in Connecticut in his honor, and he was laid to rest with full military honors at Mishkan Israel Cemetery in New Haven, Connecticut. Tributes from community leaders, including state officials and veterans, reflected the deep respect and pride held for his service.

Eric is survived by his parents, Michael J. Soufrine and Donna Johnson Soufrine of Woodbridge, his brother Joshua (and his wife Jessica) Soufrine of Georgia, and his sister Army Specialist Rebecca Soufrine, who was serving in military intelligence at the time. He was also survived by his grandparents, extended family, friends, and his girlfriend Paige Woodward, all of whom remember him for his kindness, humor, and love of life. Several members of his extended family had served in the armed forces, a testament to the deep tradition of service in his family.

Dates:
• Birth: October 16, 1990 — Bridgeport, Connecticut
• Angelversary: June 14, 2011 — Farah Province, Afghanistan

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army Private First Class, Fire Support Specialist
• Battery B, 4th Battalion, 42nd Field Artillery Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division — Fort Carson, Colorado
• Deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan
• Recognized as Soldier of the Month, May 28, 2011
• Awards include National Defense Service Medal, NATO Service Medal, Combat Action Badge, Army Achievement Medal, and other campaign and service medals reflecting his dedicated service

United States Army PFC Eric D. Soufrine’s life was marked by courage, warmth, and a deep commitment to his country, family, and fellow Soldiers. His legacy of service and sacrifice continues to be remembered with honor by all who knew him.

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