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America's Last Patrol Visits Fallen Soldier's Family

1,199 views · Published 30 December 2011 · 1:35 · Indexed 6 November 2026

Channel: CBS Rio Grande Valley · 2011 · News & Politics

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On Wednesday, Army Spc. Kurt Kern's family released a statement describing him as a positive man loved by everyone, and while the family mourns behind closed doors, America's Last Patrol is working to ensure the family's journey after losing their soldier is as smooth as it can be.

"It's bad to lose your life far away from your family," said Hector Mercado, a member of America's Last Patrol.
 
Mercado served during the Vietnam era.

"When I first got out, I didn't want anything to do with the military, but after 9-11, I started getting involved.

He works with America's Last Patrol visiting families that have recently lost a fallen soldier.

"I did lose some friends, and I'm really feeling bad for these families that have lost loved ones over there," said Mercado.

A graduate of McAllen Memorial High, Kurt Kern was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED) in Afghanistan on Tuesday along with two other soldiers.

He died from his injuries.

His family was notified later that same day.

"The brother and sister are up there now identifying the body," said Commander Ricardo Pena.

Pena said Kurt's remains are in Pennsylvania.

"As soon as they let them know that it's the body, they will figure out when they will ship the body back, and then we will have a get together with them about the flag raising ceremony that we usually have," said Pena.

It's a difficult task for the family,  but once his remains are identified, Spc. Kern will return home to the Rio Grande Valley one last time.

Funeral services are pending the arrival of the remains.

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