U.S. Military Deaths in Afghanistan The Department of Defense has identified 2,097 American service members who have died as a part of the Afghan war and related operations. It confirmed the deaths of the following Americans recently: MONTENEGRO, Jose L. Jr., 31, Chief Warrant Officer 2, Army; Houston; 82nd Airborne Division. RAMIREZ, Thalia S., 28, Chief Warrant Officer 2, Army; San Antonio; 82nd Airborne Division.