Tommy Lazzaro, a Special Forces soldier who previously played quarterback for Central Michigan University, has died. He was 27.
Lazzaro was at a hunting location in Eglin Air Force Base in Walton County, Florida, when a hunter’s stray round hit him on Sunday, Dec. 22. According to Task & Purpose, he had gone to the range to help a fellow soldier who was having car trouble.
“We deeply mourn the loss of U.S. Army Sgt. Thomas Lazzaro of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne),” Col. Patrick Nelson, 7th SFG(A) commander, told the outlet in a statement.
“We will never forget his dedication, courage, and commitment to safeguarding our freedoms,” he continued. “His absence leaves a void that will be felt professionally and personally among those who had the honor of working with Thomas. Our heartfelt condolences extend to his family, friends, and comrades during this difficult time.”
Pictured, Tommy Lazzaro.
Duane Burleson/Getty
Before joining the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), Lazzaro was a star football player having won the Colorado State Championship in both 2013 and 2014 as part of the Pine Creek High School team, a tribute shared by the Emerald Coast Funeral Homestated.
He then earned a place as a starting Quarterback at Central Michigan University while studying for a bachelor’s degree in business. Lazzaro spent four seasons playing for the Chippewas, reported WILX 10.
“When we took over the program, Tommy was truly our leader in so many ways,” former head coach Jim McElwain said in a CMU memorial post. “CMU Football was blessed to have him and will always remember him for all he did for many of us. He will be missed by all of the Chippewas.”
According to CMU, both Lazzaro’s father and grandfather served in the army. He followed in their footsteps after receiving a contract to go directly into the Special Forces after graduating.
Tommy Lazzaro, pictured.
Duane Burleson/Getty
The funeral home tribute stated that he played a “vital role” in enabling his Operational Detachment Alpha (ODA) to complete over 32 live-fire exercises, including 10 in collaboration with Ecuadorian Commandos and Tier 1 police personnel. Lazzaro also helped to organize and carry out three major ODA training concepts across the United States.
The army veteran is survived by his parents, Thomas A. Lazzaro III and Lisa A. Lazzaro, his sister Lexie Lazzaro, and his fiancée Kaley Lynch, according to the funeral tribute.
A celebration of life service is scheduled to take place on Saturday, Dec. 28 in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. Lazzaro will be buried with full military honors, reported WILX 10.
