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Updated 08/19/2010 09:20 AM

Soldier from Nassau killed in Afghanistan

By: Web Staff

The Capital Region is mourning the loss of another local soldier. Derek Farley, 24, was killed while serving in Afghanistan. Our Solomon Syed joined us from Farley's hometown of Nassau with more.

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NASSAU, N.Y. -- A community is in mourning following the death of a soldier from Nassau who was killed in Afghanistan.

Army Staff Sgt. Derek Farley, 24, was a Nassau native and a 2004 graduate of Columbia High School. He died Tuesday from wounds he sustained when an IED detonated as he attempted to disarm it.

According to a statement from the family, Farley was scheduled to return home in two weeks after completing his second tour of duty. He had previously served in Iraq where he was awarded the Purple Heart.

Farley served in the Army 702nd Division out of Germany as an Explosive Ordinance Disposal Technician.

Statements on the passing of Staff Sgt. Derek Farley

Nassau Supervisor David Fleming: "It is with great sadness that I have learned of the passing of a local hero, Derek Farley of the Town of Nassau. My prayers and sincere condolences go out to the entire Farley family as they confront this difficult time of loss. In honor of the memory of Staff Sgt. Farley, I have ordered all flags on municipal buildings to be flown at half staff and have requested that all businesses and emergency services within the town also participate in this recognition of this great loss."

Rensselaer County Executive Kathy Jimino: "It is with profound sadness that I learn of the passing of Derek Farley of Nassau. My thoughts and prayers are with the Farley family as they mourn his loss. His death will be a consistent reminder of the sacrifices that our men and women of our military are prepared to make as they fight to preserve freedom for ourselves and people around the globe. In his memory, I have ordered all flags in county government buildings to be flown at half staff. Rensselaer County and the Town of Nassau have lost a true hero."

Senator Roy McDonald: "With today's report on the passing of Staff Sgt. Derek J. Farley, we are reminded yet again of the painful sacrifices that the men and women of our armed forces continue to make on a daily basis. As a recipient of the Purple Heart medal for previous acts of courage, Staff Sgt Farley helped set the standard for his fellow soldiers in courage and bravery. To his family and friends, words cannot express my sincerest condolences as you grieve this loss. May the memory of his selfless acts, concern for his fellow soldiers and love of country help to ease the burden that we shall all carry in the days to come."