Remembering SSG James Christen, KIA Kunar Province, Afghanistan 19 July 2011

I apologize that this didn't post on July 19th.  I thought I had set this up to auto post while I was away for a few days.

SSG James Christen

10 July 1982 - 19 July 2011

SSG Christen was killed in Kunar province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his vehicle with an improvised explosive device. Christen was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. This was Christen’s third deployment overseas. He previously served two tours in Iraq.

James was married to Lauren Christen.  They had been married for 8 years.  Although known as a quiet guy he was also known by all who loved him as one with a keen sense of humor.  More so he was known as a man who would give the shirt off of his back to his friends.  Soldiers who served with James say that he was a stand up guy who they all respected because he respected them.

Christen's awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart (both posthumous), Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Star, Iraq Campaign with Star, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Profession Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, NATO Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge and the Parachutist Badge.

SSG Christen is sorely missed by those who knew him in both civilian and military life.  His smile, laugh, love and compassion made all those around him feel at ease.

Rest in peace brave warrior.  Will will never allow you or your sacrifice to be forgotten.