Oklahoma Soldier Killed In Afghanistan

The Department of Defense says an Oklahoma soldier has died as part of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan.

Specialist James E. Dutton, 25, of Checotah died on Saturday, March 31, 2012, in Logar Province, Afghanistan. Specialist Dutton was part of the 125th Brigade Support Battalion, stationed out of Fort Bliss, Texas.

The Weleetka native was stationed out of Fort Bliss, Texas. He was part of the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team.

His death Saturday is the latest tragedy to hit the small town of Weleetka.

Tim's Grocery is a popular spot in Weleetka. The grocery store and deli has long been a place for Weleetkans to talk of the day's news. Monday, it was the tragic story of native son dying in service to his country.

"It's kind of hard to believe; we heard it late last night," said Weleetka resident Cynthia Williams.

The army hasn't released the circumstances of his death but that doesn't matter in Weleetka - the folks here are just sad one of their own is gone.

"He's a good kid, always had a smile on his face," Williams said.

"And the thing I remember about him is he had the most beautiful blue eyes and long eyelashes," said Beverly Winn of Weleetka.

"It seems like this little town has had a lot of sadness in the recent years with the girls," said Weleetka resident Tennie Polson.

In the military Specialist Dutton was known for fixing fire trucks. According to a Department of Defense blog. he was the only service member in southern Afghanistan who could fix them. and he would often travel to western Afghanistan to put his skills to work.

Specialist Dutton grew up in Weleetka and attended the high school here up to his junior year.

I'd just like to say that our thoughts and prayers are going out to the family," said Chris Carter, Weleetka High School principal.

Carter also coached Dutton in football and baseball. He says whatever Dutton wanted to do, he usually succeeded.

"James was a fine young man, hard working, high character, high morals," Carter said.

As Weleetka begins to mourn once again, the residents say they'll make it through and wish nothing but the best for Specialist Dutton's family.

"It's such a tragedy that he had to lose his life over there in Afghanistan, and everybody in Weleetka that knew him appreciates him more than words can say," said Beverly Winn.

Dutton is survived by his parents, James and Trina Dutton of Checotah. Funeral services are pending.

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