Aurek Rardin - U.S. Military - a young man who died in Training

Aurek Rardin

Pvt. Aurek Rardin, age 20, of Lafayette, Indiana, died on April 26, 2014, at a hospital in Columbus, Georgia.

Aurek was a National Guard soldier assigned to the 198th Infantry Brigade at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was in advanced individual training and would have graduated on May 9, 2014.

He had participated in an overnight 12 mile march which is a requirement of this course. It is a rigorous hike in which you carry a heavy backpack. During or after the march, Aurek became seriously ill and collapsed. He was transported to a military hospital and then a hospital in Columbus, where tragically he was pronounced deceased.

He had no previous history of serious medical issues.

Family members stated that Aurek had wanted to join the military since he was in

middle school. He was doing exactly what he had aspired to do. He was happy doing it.

He graduated from Jefferson High School in 2012 and attended Ivy Tech Community

Angels of God, pray for Aurek and for those
who have lost him

College. He worked at a movie theater complex for almost 3 years. Co-workers there describe him as dependable, well-liked and a leader.

Family members stated that Aurek liked to make others happy and to tell jokes. He was caring and thoughtful. He was the type of kid who was a peacemaker when trouble was brewing or bullying was involved. He looked on the positive side of life. 

Friends stated that he was a caring buddy who you could talk to. He was the guy who could make you laugh. He will be forever missed. 

Family members also stated that Aurek was a committed Christian.

Aurek's family members are devastated over his tragic passing. He will be forever mourned.

Aurek is survived by many loving friends and relatives including but not limited to his mother, Kim and her husband, Dan; his father, Brent; his sister, Abrianne; his brothers, Tandrek, Tayeb (Aurek's twin brother) and Keldan; and stepbrothers, Paul and Salvatore.

Thank you for wanting to serve your country, Aurek.

Pray for the 20 year old men who die suddenly and tragically. Yesterday, they were just boys.

Pray for all who die in the performance of their duties.

Pray that Aurek is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.