SPC Bryant J. Luxmore, a 3rd Infantry Division soldier from New Windsor, Ill., has been killed in combat in Afghanistan, the division confirmed Tuesday.

Luxmore, 25, was assigned to Bravo Company, 1-64thArmor Battalion, 2ndBrigade Combat Team and deployed in March for a nine month deployment supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. Sunday, Luxmore and his fellow soldiers were on a dismounted patrol with Afghan National Security Forces near Panjwai when they came under enemy fire and he sustained a fatal gunshot wound, according to Fort Stewart's Public Affairs Office.

Luxmore, an infantryman, had been in the Army for 14 months and is survived by his wife and stepson. This was Luxmore’s first deployment, PAO reported. He has been posthumously promoted to corporal, awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart and Combat Infantryman Badge.

The 1st Battalion, 64th Armor Regiment, consisting of approximately 700 soldiers, is conducting counter-insurgency operations and training Afghanistan National Security Forces in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

The commanding general and the 3rd ID express their deepest condolences to the family members of SPC Luxmore. Chaplain support and family assistance have been extended to the soldier’s family during this time.