UPDATED: Exeter High Grad Killed in Afghanistan

A highly decorated soldier who graduated from Exeter High School was killed in an insurgent attack in Afghanistan last week, the Department of Defense announced today.

Spc. Nicholas Bernier, 21, of East Kingston, died Saturday. His unit was attacked by gun-toting insurgents on June 22 in Kherwar, Afghanistan. He died at an Army hospital in Landstuhl, Germany three days later.

Bernier was an Army combat medic. He graduated from Exeter High in 2007. He leaves behind a mother, father, brothers and sister.

Bernier earned the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Medic Badge, among other awards.

He joined the Army in March 2008, just months after graduating high school.

Berner was part of an infantry regiment stationed in Fort Polk, Lousiana.

Gov. John Lynch released this statement on Bernier's death: "We, and all of New Hampshire, are saddened by the loss of Spc. Nicholas Bernier. His sacrifice, and the sacrifice of his family, was his service to all of us. Spc. Bernier gave his life serving our nation and protecting the freedoms we hold dear. He was a hero, and we are all grateful for his service.

"My wife Susan and I wish to offer on our deepest sympathies to the Bernier family. We will be thinking and praying for the Bernier family during this difficult time."

“I join the people of New Hampshire in mourning the loss of Spc. Nicholas Bernier, who gave his life in defense of freedom. We all owe Nicholas a debt of gratitude that we can never fully repay, and we will always remember his selfless service and sacrifice to our nation.  The Bernier family remains in my thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”