Those who knew Leon well say he was destined to be a soldier from an early age. He signed on with the Army Reserve in 1984. In Iraq, a staff sergeant in the National Guard, he served as a commander of his unit, specializing in combat warfare, germ warfare, and chemical warfare. Leon was deployed last October in large part due to his specialized training. 

The Miranda family received a Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Arkansas Distinguished Service Medal on Leon's behalf. Leon lost his life while making the ultimate sacrifice to serve our country, and I will be forever grateful to him for his courageous spirit. 

Leon gave his life to serve our country and will forever be remembered as a brother, son, hero, and friend. My deepest condolences go out to his parents, Bobby and Carlos, and his brother, Phillip. I know Leon was proud of his service to the U.S. Army and to our country. He will be missed by his family, fellow soldiers, and all those who knew him well.