U.S. Army Promotes Voakes Posthumously

Robert Voakes, Jr. has received a posthumous honor from the U.S. Army.

He’s been promoted to Specialist First Class.

He deployed to Afghanistan in late March from Fort Richardson, Alaska for a one–year tour.

The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community President has released a statement of condolence.

Warren Swartz says the community mourns the loss of this young, brave warrior.

He was in his first year of a five-year Army enlistment, serving with the military police.

Swartz says Voakes hoped to return to the area and work in law enforcement, specifically to help combat the local drug problem.

All tribal flags are being flown at half staff.

Community members are distributing yellow and black ribbons, and KBIC veterans will be serving as honor guards at his memorial service.