CHESTER, Va. -- Private First Class Gregory Ellis, a graduate of Thomas Dale High School, drowned in the Stillhouse Hollow Lake in Bell County, Texas, according to his family who posted information on social media.
The Chester native was stationed at Fort Hood in Texas.
"[He] will be missed by all of us," Lt. Col. Paul W. Smith, commander of the 61st Quartermaster Battalion, said. "He was a highly respected Soldier and will always be remembered as a brother-in-arms who was dedicated to defending the ideals of our Nation. He will never be forgotten."
Ellis joined the Army in 2019 and was assigned to Fort Hood in 2020.
A petroleum laboratory specialist, he had been awarded the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon, according to the Army.
"Private First Class Gregory Ellis will be missed by all of us. He was a highly respected Soldier and will always be remembered as a brother-in-arms who was dedicated to defending the ideals of our Nation. He will never be forgotten," said Lt. Col. Paul W. Smith, commander of the 61st Quartermaster Battalion.
Gregory's mother said that the Army and Fort Lee have been wonderful in supporting their family through the tragic loss.
According to his family, he leaves behind a mother, six siblings and a wife.
