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Local Soldier Dies In Afghanistan

ALIQUIPPA (KDKA) - A local soldier has died Monday in Afghanistan in what is being called a non-combat death.

Sgt. Robert Sisson Jr. had come down with flu-like symptoms the night before he died.

"He served honorably and he died honorably too," Ronald Sisson, Robert's grandfather, said.

It's been hard for the family after learning that Sgt. Sisson, died Monday while serving in Afghanistan.

Only 29-years-old, the Department of Defense said he died in a non-combat related incident.

"The information I got was he got a very bad infection and ultimately that's what carried him off," Ronald Sisson said.

His grandfather said Robert was passionate about the military. A decorated soldier, he'd climbed the ranks to sergeant and was in charge of several men overseas.

He was deployed to Afghanistan in July after getting married a few months prior.

"The only consolation we have is that he didn't die from enemy fire," Ronald said.

Outside of Robert's father's home, flags fly and a yellow ribbon was tagged to a tree. Robert joined the Army in 2004 and was dedicated to what the military stands for.

"He confessed to me along the line that he loved the Army and the discipline and the camaraderie," Ronald said.

He also told his grandfather that he and his men had developed rashes recently. An autopsy has been scheduled.

No funeral arrangements have been made at this time.

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