Army Ranger Christopher Celiz Gives Life Shielding Comrades and Medevac Crew in Afghanistan

Giving one's life to save another is among the most unselfish deeds performed in battle. During a mission in Afghanistan, U.S. Army Ranger Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Andrew Celiz was above and above, offering his life to cover a wounded colleague, medics, and an evacuation crew from hostile fire in 2018.

Celiz's early enthusiasm for service started on Jan. 12, 1986, in Summerville, South Carolina. Originally a junior ROTC member at Summerville High School, he subsequently attended The Citadel before joining the Army in 2008. He performed several combat duties over time, becoming a mortar platoon sergeant with the elite 75th Ranger Regiment.

Twice deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan, Celiz supported Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Freedom Sentinel, therefore contributing significantly to efforts against the Taliban and other rebel groups.

Celiz's squad was heavily attacked by militants on July 12, 2018, on a mission in Paktia Province of Afghanistan. Celiz braved enemy fire to get a heavy weapon system and returned fire when an allied soldier was gravely wounded, therefore enabling his unit to carry the wounded guy to an evacuation helicopter.

The insurgent fire was aimed at the chopper as the medevac approached. Celiz purposefully exposed himself to guard the crew, acting as a target to deflect fire. He was killed trying to locate cover after his squad and the victim arrived at safety. Celiz signaled the helicopter to leave even at the last minute, putting others' safety above his own.

Given his incredible bravery, Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Celiz's posthumous receipt of the Medal of Honor confirmed his reputation as a genuine American hero.

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