Wilbur, Christopher Alexander

Christopher Alexander Wilbur was a 36-year-old staff sergeant from Granite City, Illinois. He served in the U.S. Army as a member of Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Carson, Colorado.

According to the U.S. Department of Defense, Wilbur died on August 12, 2016, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, from wounds sustained when his unit was engaged by enemy small-arms fire. The incident occurred during a dismounted patrol in the southern province, a region with a persistent Taliban presence.

Wilbur's death occurred during Operation Freedom's Sentinel, the U.S.-led NATO mission that succeeded the International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) on January 1, 2015. The mission's stated objectives were to train, advise, and assist Afghan security forces and conduct counterterrorism operations.

Following his death, the 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson issued a statement confirming the loss and extending condolences to his family and fellow soldiers. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Meritorious Service Medal.

Staff Sgt. Wilbur is remembered by his unit and community. A memorial service was held at Fort Carson, and his name is inscribed on the 4th Infantry Division's memorial wall.

Staff Sgt. Christopher Wilbur was killed during Operation Freedom's Sentinel (ongoing since 2015). See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.

Among those documented in the same conflict: Golden, Jonathan Joseph, Sanchez, Maria Victoria, Dawson, John Michael, Ruiz, Pablo Allende Iii.

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