The 35-year-old Rhode Island native was serving in support of Operation Freedom’s Sentinel, the name for the U.S. ongoing mission in Afghanistan.

First Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna, of Bristol, was killed Friday during a bombing attack in Kabul, Afghanistan, Senator Jack Reed’s office confirmed Saturday.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of First Sgt”.

“‎We are forever indebted to Sgt”.

McKenna returned to the states in July, where he was honored during Bristol’s Annual Fourth of July Parade, Reed’s office said. Andrew’s sacrifice will never be forgotten, and as we pray for his loved ones, let us also pray for the courageous men and women who continue to serve and selflessly protect this nation.

McKenna is the son of Carol and Peter McKenna.

McKenna was assigned to 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla. The attack came during a day of violence in the Afghan capitol that had been preceded by about a month of relative calm.