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An Arizona-based Air Force Master Sergeant died Monday after he was shot outside Camp Stone, Forward Operating Based near Herat, Afghanistan.

The Pueblo Chieftain

Master Sgt. Randy Gillespie

Sgt. Randy J. Gillespie, 44, of Coaldale, Colo., was deployed in April with the 755th Air Expeditionary Group in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He was part of the task force that's training the new Afghan national army.

"The 56th Fighter Wing extends its heartfelt condolences to the Gillespie family for such a tragic loss," said Brig. Gen. Tom Jones, Commander of Luke's 56th Fighter Wing in a prepared statement. "Today's news and the deep sense of sorrow we feel here at Luke should serve as a reminder to Americans about the sacrifice borne by the men and women of our Armed Forces."  

"Master Sgt Gillespie will be remembered here as a beloved husband and father, patriot, warrior, friend and a proud American who volunteered to serve in his nation's Air Force," the statement continues. "He served with courage and commitment and believed in duty, honor and country."

According to Gillespie's family, this was his second tour in Afghanistan.

Gillespie, a 24-year veteran of the Air Force, leaves behind a wife and four children, all of whom live near Luke Air Force Base in Phoenix.

Memorial services will be held in Pueblo, Colo., as well as here in Phoenix.

Additional information from The Pueblo Chieftain