The U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday passed legislation introduced by Representative Trent Kelly (MS-01) to honor a Mississippi soldier killed in action. H.R. 5309 designates the United States Postal Service facility in Oxford, Mississippi as the “Army First Lieutenant Donald C. Carwile Post Office Building.” H.R. 5309 now awaits further Senate action.

Carwile and fellow soldier Army Private First Class Paul E. Conlon, Jr. of Somerville, Massachusetts were killed during a combat mission in Afghanistan on August 15, 2008 during Operation Enduring Freedom.

“This small gesture will honor his memory and will serve as a reminder to the community of First Lieutenant Carwile’s selfless service and sacrifice for our freedom,” Representative Kelly said. “He is a hero.”

First Lieutenant Carwile joined the Army after graduating from Lafayette High School. His career path included service as a patrol officer for the Batesville and Oxford Police Departments. In 2006, Carwile reenlisted in the Army and qualified for Officer Candidate School.

Lieutenant Carwile distinguished himself as a soldier by earning numerous awards and decorations including the Bronze Star Medal and the Purple Heart.

He is survived by his wife Jennifer and two daughters, Elizabeth Reese and Avery Claire.

The Army First Lieutenant Donald C. Carwile Post Office Building will be located at 401 McElroy Drive in Oxford.