82nd Airborne says Medina native was “extraordinary” paratrooper

By Tom Rivers, Editor Posted 1 June 2014 at 12:00 am

Schmigel

FORT BRAGG, N.C. The 82nd Airborne in Fort Bragg has issued a news release about the death of Medina native Sgt. Shaina B. Schmigel, a paratrooper who died during a T-11 airborne training exercise at Holland Drop Zone on Friday.

The cause of death is currently under investigation, the 82nd Division said today.

“All of the Paratroopers in the brigade are deeply saddened by the loss of an extraordinary and much-respected member of our team,” said Lt. Col. Albert Paquin, commander of the 2nd BCT. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends during this time of great loss. Our chaplains and our health care professionals are available to help comfort and support all of her fellow Paratroopers affected by this tragedy.”

Schmigel joined the Army in Aug. 2010. She completed Basic Training at Fort Jackson, S.C., Advanced Individual Training at Fort Huachuca, Az. and Basic Airborne Course at Fort Benning, Ga., according to the news release. She reported to the 82nd Airborne Division where she was assigned to 2nd BCT in June 2011.

Schmigel is a 2010 Medina High School graduate. She moved from Batavia to Medina about six years ago. She was a cheerleader at Medina.

As a paratrooper in the Army, she deployed to Iraq in support of Operation New Dawn from July to November 2011.

Her awards and decorations include the Army Achievement Medal with one oak leaf cluster, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, and the Parachutist Badge.

The Michael S. Tomaszewski Funeral & Cremation Chapel in Batavia will be handling funeral arrangements.