By Laura Lane
According to the Department of Defense, an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near Bandhold's Humvee during combat.
Military officials describe an IED as a "shape charge," a weapon often used by Iraqi insurgents to target armored vehicles. This type of explosive device is shaped in such a way to aim its blast directly at a target.
An aircraft electrician, Specialist Bandhold first entered the military in March 2003. Since 2004 he had been assigned to the 1st Battalion, 67th Armored Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division. He deployed to Iraq in December 2005.
"I sent a letter to Specialist Bandhold's father the other day," said U.S. Rep. Peter King, who represents North Merrick. "Obviously, our hearts go out to Bandhold's family. He died serving his country and will be in our prayers."
Bandhold earned the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and an Army Service Ribbon.
Before joining the military, he was an entertainer. He studied at the Dance Arts Studio on Merrick Avenue in Merrick and later worked as a dancer at Walt Disney World and on cruise ships.
Bandhold met his future wife while working at a casino in Portugal. The couple married in 1995 and had two children, Mariana, 10, and Afonzo, 9. They divorced in 2001.
In addition to his children, Bandhold is survived by his father, Hank, of Florida, and two brothers, Don, of Leesburg, Va., and Joe. The flags at the American Legion Memorial Park on Merrick Avenue in North Merrick and at the American Legion Hall on Merrick Road in Merrick were to be flown at half-staff to honor Bandhold. Funeral arrangements were not available at press time.
