East Texas soldier dies serving in Iraq

TYLER, Texas - On Tuesday, the Department of Defense announced the death of an East Texas soldier who was supporting operation inherent resolve.
Spc. Alexander W.  Missildine, 20, of Tyler, died Sunday, in Iraq when an explosive device detonated near his convoy. The incident is under investigation.
Before making the decision to join the U.S. Army, Missildine was a student at Robert E. Lee Hish School and he served customers at Bruno's Pizza in Tyler as a busboy. Bruno's owner Jay Rumbelow said, "He left an impression on every one here. He always had a smile on his face."
"Day one he surprised me because he gave me a hug when we first met," said Jo Jean Smith.
While employed at Bruno's Pizza he made many friends. All saddened to hear that their friend was gone. "I certainly didn't expect getting a phone call said, "Rumbelow."
"I was saddened to hear about his early death. It's such a shame. He was such a fine young man, said Smith"
Missildine's family asked for privacy at this time. Tuesday a yellow ribbon tied around a tree of their home. To remind us that their son was a true American hero.
Tyler ISD released the following statement on Spc. Missildine's passing:
"Tyler ISD is saddened to learn of the passing Spc. Alexander Missildine, a 2015 graduate of Robert E. Lee High School. The District joins the Tyler community in thanking him for his service to our country. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time of loss."