Pfc. Ethan Longo is an M1A1 Abrams tank crewman attached to the 3rd Brigade 3rd Infantry Division C Company 2-69 Armored 3rd Platoon at Fort Benning, Ga.

At Fort Knox, Ky., Longo completed eight weeks of Basic Training that included military discipline, Army core values, basic combat skills, physical fitness and the use of various weapons. He then completed eight weeks of Advanced Infantry Training (AIT), specializing in armor. There he learned armored tactics, driving skills in M1A1 Abrams tanks and humvees, as well as various warfare principles and skills.

He graduated on Jan. 30, 2009 with badges in marksmanship with the M-4 rifle and expert in grenades. Longo is the husband of Nicole (Shockley) Longo, a 2007 Freedom High School graduate.

His proud parents are Mike and Sue Longo of Oakley.