Ingram, Matthew Lee

Matthew Lee Ingram grew up in Pearl, Mississippi, a suburb of Jackson. He enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned as an infantryman to Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, part of the 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Carson, Colorado. In 2009, his unit deployed to eastern Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.

On August 21, 2009, Sgt. Ingram was killed during a combat operation in the rugged Chapa Dara district of Kunar province, a region bordering Pakistan known for insurgent activity. According to the Department of Defense, his death was the result of hostile enemy fire. He was 25 years old.

Ingram's death occurred during a period of intensified U.S. military operations in Afghanistan. Following a strategy review, the U.S. had significantly increased troop levels in 2009 to counter a resurgent Taliban and improve security ahead of planned elections. Eastern provinces like Kunar were focal points for these counterinsurgency efforts.

The Department of Defense announced Ingram's death on August 24, 2009. He was posthumously promoted to the rank of Sergeant. His awards included the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Army Commendation Medal. His remains were returned to Mississippi for burial.

Sgt. Ingram is remembered on memorials at Fort Carson and in his hometown. His name is inscribed on the Mississippi Fallen Heroes Memorial in Jackson. Fellow soldiers described him as a dedicated and reliable member of his unit.

Sgt. Matthew Ingram was killed during Operation Enduring Freedom (2001–2014). The conflict concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.

Among those documented in the same conflict: Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif, Davis, Bryant Leroy.

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