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Sgt. Christopher Celiz embodied the very essence of what it means to be a soldier. Serving in the US Army with honor and distinction, he made the ultimate sacrifice during a harrowing mission in Afghanistan, where his courage and selflessness were honored posthumously with the prestigious Medal of Honor.
A Dedicated Soldier’s Journey
Christopher Celiz began his military career in September 2006 when he enlisted in the US Army. Following his basic and advanced training at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri, he was assigned to the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas. His role as a combat engineer and team leader set the foundation for a distinguished career.
Over the years, Celiz served in various positions, including team leader with the 4th Brigade Special Troops Battalion and later as a sapper squad leader with the 3rd Infantry Division. His dedication saw him deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008-09, and again to the Middle East in support of Operation Enduring Freedom just a few years later.
In 2013, Celiz’s exemplary service earned him a place in the elite 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. By 2017, he had risen to the rank of mortar platoon sergeant, leading a specialized unit during a critical deployment to Afghanistan.
The Fateful Day in Afghanistan
On July 12, 2018, during a mission in Afghanistan’s Paktia province, Sgt. Celiz and his unit found themselves in a dire situation. The operation, aimed at clearing enemy forces, took a sudden turn when they were ambushed by a heavily armed enemy. The intensity of the assault was overwhelming, leaving Celiz and his team in a precarious position.
Faced with this life-threatening situation, Celiz took immediate action. He risked everything to retrieve and operate a heavy weapons system, a move that allowed his team to regain control and secure their position. This act of bravery was just the beginning of his extraordinary efforts that day.
As the firefight raged on, one of Celiz’s comrades was critically wounded. Recognizing the urgency, Celiz took it upon himself to ensure the injured soldier’s safe evacuation. When a MEDEVAC helicopter arrived, Celiz exposed himself to relentless enemy fire, using his own body as a shield to protect his comrade.
Even after being hit by enemy fire, Celiz continued to prioritize the safety of others over his own. As the helicopter began to lift off, Celiz, severely wounded, signaled for it to leave, knowing that staying longer could endanger the entire crew. His decision to put others first, even in his final moments, was a testament to his character and dedication.
A Nation’s Gratitude
The courage and sacrifice of Sgt. Christopher Celiz did not go unrecognized. Captain Ben Krzeczowski, the pilot in command of the MEDEVAC mission, later reflected, “Courage, to me, is putting your life on the line to save the life of another, as demonstrated by Sfc. Chris Celiz who died protecting my crew.”
In December 2021, President Joe Biden posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor to Christopher Celiz, presenting it to his wife and daughter. During the ceremony, Biden described Celiz as “courage made flesh,” offering heartfelt thanks to his family for the service and sacrifice of a remarkable soldier.
The Legacy of a True Hero
The official citation accompanying the Medal of Honor captures the magnitude of Sgt. Celiz’s actions:
“His selfless actions saved the life of the evacuated partner force member and almost certainly prevented further casualties among other members of his team and the aircraft. Throughout the entire engagement, Sergeant First Class Christopher Celiz significantly changed the course of battle by repeatedly placing himself in extreme danger to protect his team, defeat the enemy, and it ultimately cost him his life. Sergeant First Class Celiz’s extraordinary heroism and selflessness above and beyond the call of duty were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army.”
Sgt. Christopher Celiz’s story is one of extraordinary heroism, a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who serve. His legacy lives on, inspiring not only those who wear the uniform but all who hear of his selfless acts. In the face of overwhelming danger, Celiz stood firm, embodying the values of duty, honor, and country—values that will forever be remembered.
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