https://www.phillytrib.com/news/state_and_region/willingboros-sgt-william-jerome-rivers-killed-in-drone-attack-remembered-by-widow/article_02f43dec-8da5-5fbd-ba83-4647f7dcb3b8.html

Sgt. William Jerome Rivers, a Philadelphia native who was killed in an attack against the U.S. in Jordan near the Syrian border a week ago, was remembered as “always happy” and a hard worker who was devoted to his family.

His wife, who declined to be identified, said in an interview with Atlanta news outlet WSB-TV that she and Rivers had been married for nearly 11 years and had a teenage son. The U.S. Army Reserve sergeant had resided in Willingboro, New Jersey, and later moved to Georgia with his wife.

His wife said that her husband had always been there for them even when he was away on military duty, and described his passing as a shock.

“They came to the door and told me that he had passed away in Jordan, which I didn’t know he was in Jordan, because I guess it was classified information,” she said in the WSB-TV broadcast.

She described her late husband as “always smiling, always happy, always worried about his family, always taking care of his family, and a very hard worker.”

Rivers, 46, along with Sgt. Kennedy Ladon Sanders, 24, of Waycross, Georgia, and Sgt. Breonna Alexsondria Moffett, 23, of Savannah, Georgia, was killed last weekend in a drone attack on their container housing unit, according to a statement from the White House. Another 34 American reservists were also injured in the area.

Rivers was posthumously promoted to staff sergeant.

The late U.S. Army reservist won a long list of awards during his military career, including the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Achievement Medal.

Willingboro Mayor Kaya McIntosh and New Jersey Sen. Cory Booker also mourned the loss of Rivers.

“Sgt. Rivers exemplified the highest ideals of service, bravery and sacrifice,” McIntosh said. “His unwavering commitment to our country and selfless dedication to protecting our freedoms will forever be remembered and cherished by all. As we honor his memory, let us extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends and fellow service members. Their loss is immeasurable, and our thoughts and prayers are with them during this difficult time.”

Booker said Rivers served with courage, honor and a deep sense of duty, embodying the best of New Jersey and our nation.

“His death is a profound loss to his family, friends, colleagues and our entire country, and a reminder of the heavy debt we owe to our military families for their sacrifice,” Booker said.

*The preceding content is not intended as a comprehensive biography, but it highlights their significance as a result of military or civilian distinction, lasting achievements, or association with impactful national events. 

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