October 24, 2006

 
LIVINGSTON, Ala.--The University of West Alabama joins family and friends in mourning the death of an Alabama soldier from Prattville. Army officials report that 19-year-old Private Stephen Bicknell, a member of the 82nd Airborne Division, lost his life Oct. 15 when his Humvee struck a land mine in Iraq.

Bicknell was enrolled at UWA in the fall of 2005 as a freshman member of the Tiger football team. He was a 2005 graduate of Prattville High School and a standout football player for the Lions.

He enlisted in the United States Army earlier this year and was recently deployed to Iraq. For his meritorious service, while assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment during Operation Iraqi Freedom, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal (Posthumous). For wounds received as a result of hostile actions, he was awarded the Purple Heart (Posthumous), and for his exemplary behavior, efficiency and fidelity in active Federal military service, he was awarded The Good Conduct Medal.

“We recognize and remember those from our UWA family who have served and sacrificed for this country and for us,” said UWA President Richard Holland. “The University of West Alabama wishes to extend our condolences to the Bicknell family.”

He is survived by his wife, Miranda Barrett Bicknell, who is five months pregnant; his mother, Linda Bicknell, his father, Jeffery Bicknell; and his biological father, Frank Lueck.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Zachery Bicknell Trust Fund, c/o AmSouth Bank, 1882 East Main Street, Prattville, AL 36066.