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.

SSG James Christen - Celebrating a Life Taken Way Too Soon

SSG James Christen, a former 173rd, 2-503 Battle Co and HHC Co Paratrooper who was currently serving with 2nd Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii was killed in action on July 19, 2011 in Kunar Province, Afghanistan.  SSG Christen's vehicle was hit by an IED.

Throughout the day and well into the night of Thursday August 18th former battle buddies and friends of James and Lauren made their way to Arlington, VA.  Most were on flights that were delayed.  Some arrived without luggage.  Others were delayed in cities on their way to Virginia.  But no one complained. 

Lauren talking with Jesse Murphree

Well into the night and Friday morning the group remembered James with one story after another.  Lauren, who is one of the strongest women I have ever met, added in a few stories of her own.  The laughs were endless as everyone recalled what an incredible wit and gift for sarcasm James possessed.

Lauren was enveloped in love but gave back as much as she got.

Towards the end of the evening (actually into Friday morning) Lauren's father, Bruce, told the story of the first time he met James.    

Bruce telling about his first meeting with James

We laughed and laughed.  I guess James really didn't make such a stellar impression that first meeting.  But Bruce gave him another shot.  Within months they were married.  Lauren and James were married for 8 years before his most untimely death in Afghanistan.  They were truly best friends.

Everyone I know who knew James has a huge hole in their heart right now.  Please keep Lauren, her family, James' family and all of the extended family, friends and his battle buddies in your prayers.  Above all please ALWAYS remember James for the Hero he is.  He gave everything he had for the nation.  The least we can do is remember him.

So today we will all gather at Arlington National Cemetery to lay James to rest and say our final good byes.