CT man killed by lightning during Army Reserve training

A Connecticut resident was killed this week by a lightning strike during a training exercise with the U.S. Army Reserves in Georgia, officials said.

Sgt. 1st Class Michael D. Clark, 41, who is from Bolton in Tolland County, was killed Wednesday when lightning struck during a training exercise in Fort Gordon in Georgia, officials said.

Clark, an operating room specialist assigned to 933rd Forward Resuscitation Surgical Company, 3rd Medical Command, was a native of Springfield, Mass., and served in the Army for more than 22 years, including four deployments in support of operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, officials said.

Clark’s commander, Maj. Stephen Rhineheart, said he was like a brother to him, praising his impact and devotion to others.

“Sgt. 1st Class Clark was a loving husband, father and a patriot who deeply loved our country. His leadership, knowledge, experience, and love for his fellow soldiers was immeasurable. Sgt. 1st Class Clark’s smile and laughter were infectious and always brought joy to everyone around him,” Rhineheart said in a statement.

“Words will never be able to describe how much he will be missed, but his influence on our unit and soldiers will remain forever. This especially hurts because not only was Sgt. 1st Class Clark one of my soldiers, but he was my friend and brother. Our prayers are with his family.”

Clark and nine other soldiers were hit by the lightning. Eight of the solders are in good condition and one has been treated and released from the hospital, officials said.

The soldiers were attending an annual regional medic training exercise ahead of the incident, officials said. The goal of the endeavor, they said, is to allow units “to refine their processes and medical skills in field and stressful environments.”

“We extend our sincere sympathies to Sgt.1st Class Clark’s unit and his family during this difficult time,” said Lt. Gen. Jody Daniels, chief of Army Reserve and commanding general of U.S. Army Reserve Command.

“People are our most important asset. Sgt. 1st Class Clark was a valuable member of our Army Reserve team and we are all deeply saddened by his loss.”