GREEN BAY – A Green Bay soldier was killed in Afghanistan, the Dept. of Defense said. Specialist Paul Atim did not grow up in the U.S., but he died serving it. He joined the Army in November of 2006. He spent April 2009 – April 2010 in Afghanistan. His second deployment, however, was his last.

Army Spc. Paul J. Atim, 27, was one of three soldiers killed in Nimroz province, when insurgents attacked their unit with an improvised explosive device. The soldiers were part of the the 1st Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, based in Fort Drum, N.Y.

The other soldiers killed were Spc. Charles J. Wren, 25, of Beeville, Texas, and Pfc. Joel A. Ramirez, 22, of Waxahachie, Texas.

An acquaintance tells FOX 11 Atim came to Green Bay because of a personal relationship. Atim attended the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in 2005-06.

Brent Blahnik, Director of International Education says Atim studied there for a short time, “But I have fond memories of his outgoing personality and humor. Paul came to the United States from Uganda in pursuit of a better life, and shortly afterward joined the military to serve the country he loved.”

Atim has received two Army Achievement medals, the Meritorious Unit Commendation, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the Overseas Service Ribbon.

Compassion International sponsored Atim while he was a child in Uganda. The U.S.-based charitable organization provides for children living in extreme poverty. Atim grew up in an area impacted by AIDS. He was sponsored through the organization when he was 8 years old and the sponsorship continued for many years.

Compassion International says Atim and his four brothers were raised by their mother. Their father died. He completed the program in 2005, and apparently went to the United States soon after.

Gov. Scott Walker released a statement that read, “Wisconsin is extraordinarily grateful for the service of Spc. Atim. His loss of life is a stern reminder of the sacrifices that those in the armed forces make for us every day. Our deepest condolences go out to his friends and family.”

U.S. Rep. Reid Ribble, R-8th District, released a statement that read, “My wife DeaNa and I extend our deepest sympathies to Specialist Atim’s family and friends. Our prayers will be with them all during this difficult time. Paul Atim died protecting the freedoms we take for granted every day. His heroic sacrifice is a reminder to us all of the debt we owe to our men and women in uniform.”

Atim is survived by his mother and his six-year-old son.

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