A 22 year old from New Fairfield has been killed in Afghanistan.  His family was notified this Friday morning.

Todd James "T.J." Lobraico was on patrol with the U.S. Air Force in Afghanistan, having been deployed in June.  The Department of Defense says Staff Sgt LoBraico died Thursday from wounds he sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with small arms fire near Bagram Airfield.  Lobraico was assigned to the 105th Security Forces Squadron at Stewart Air National Guard Base.

He was a 2008 graduate of New Fairfield High School.  His father, Todd, is a Sherman resident and a veteran officer with the Stamford Police Department.

New Fairfield First selectman Susan Chapman says TJ's  stepmother worked for many years as an assistant tax assessor, retiring earlier this year.  Chapman says there is a special ceremony planned to honor him Sunday.  The towns of Sherman and New Fairfield will hold a candlelight vigil  will be held Sunday at 6:30 pm at the New Fairfield Senior Center.

Tom Hicks is a co owner of Gils Auto and Truck Repair in New Fairfield where T.J. worked.  Hicks said T.J. wanted to follow in his father's footsteps and become a policeman.  The elder Lobraico also served in the U.S. Air Force.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of Staff Sgt. Lobraico. His family and friends are in our thoughts and prayers at this difficult time,” said Governor Malloy. “This loss reminds us of the dangers faced by our men and women stationed overseas. We should all be grateful for their service and sacrifices to our country.”

Flags have been ordered to fly at half staff until burial, details of which are forthcoming.

“The loss of this brave young man is a sad reminder that hundreds of Connecticut military men and women are still in danger overseas even as our involvement in the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan approaches a conclusion,” said Lieutenant Governor Nancy Wyman. “I hope that all Connecticut residents take a moment to recognize the sacrifice in defense of our freedom made by Airman Lobraico and the other 64 heroes from our state lost in battle since September 11, 2001.”

“This courageous and patriotic young man will be missed and mourned by his friends and family in Connecticut. Staff Sgt. Lobraico’s service and sacrifice should be a source of pride and gratitude for all of us," said Senator Richard Blumenthal.  "Our hearts and prayers go to his family and loved ones, as well as to the brave, dedicated men and women who continue to serve our nation in uniform across the globe.”