Airman from Long Island killed in Afghanistan

NEW YORK (FOX 5 NEWS) - An airman from Long Island was among six U.S. service members-- including an NYPD detective -- killed in a suicide attack in Afghanistan, the Pentagon announced.

Staff Sgt. Louis M. Bonacasa, 31, of Coram, died December 21 when a suicide bomber on a motorcycle rammed his patrol near Bagram Air Base, the Department of Defense said. He was assigned to the 105th Security Forces Squadron based out of Stewart Air National Guard Base, New York. The AP reported that Bonacasa had a wife and 5-year-old daughter.

Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered flags on state government buildings to be flown at half-staff on December 24 in Bonacasa's honor.

"On behalf of all New Yorkers, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, friends and fellow servicemen of Staff Sgt. Bonacasa," Cuomo said in a statement. "We will join his loved ones in honoring his valor, leadership and service to this great nation. His sacrifice will be remembered with gratitude."

Another New Yorker -- Tech Sgt. Joseph Lemm, 45, of West Harrison -- was also killed in the attack. He was detective with the NYPD's Bronx Warrant Squad. In his role with the Air National Guard, he was also assigned to the 105th Security Forces Squadron.

Maj. Adrianna M. Vorderbruggen, 36, of Plymouth, Minnesota, Staff Sgt. Michael A. Cinco, 28, of Mercedes, Texas, Staff Sgt. Peter W. Taub, 30, of Philadelphia, and Staff Sgt.  Chester J. McBride, 30, of Statesboro, Georgia, also died on the bombing.

"Our heartfelt sympathies go out to the families and friends of those affected in this tragic incident, especially during this holiday season," U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William Shoffner said in a statement.