Kessler, Richard James Jr

Master Chief Petty Officer Richard James Kessler Jr. was a 47-year-old sailor from Gulfport, Florida. He served in the U.S. Navy and was assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Enterprise (CVN 65) as part of its security forces.

Kessler died on June 8, 2012, in the Qarghayi district of Laghman province, eastern Afghanistan. According to the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF), he was killed by small arms fire during an engagement with insurgent forces. He was reportedly serving as an advisor to Afghan forces at the time.

His death occurred during Operation Enduring Freedom, the U.S.-led military campaign in Afghanistan that began in October 2001 following the September 11 attacks. The operation involved coalition forces in counter-insurgency and training missions across the country.

The Department of Defense announced his death on June 9, 2012. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star with combat 'V' for valor and the Purple Heart. His remains were returned to the United States.

Master Chief Kessler's name is inscribed on the Afghanistan War Memorial at the Museum of the Forgotten Warriors in California. He is remembered by his military unit and community in Florida.

Master Chief Kessler 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.

← Return to the full memorial | Add a memorial record