Iron Infidel pays tribute to the courageous actions of U.S. Army Ranger Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Celiz. Christopher exemplified the highest standards of bravery and selflessness when he sacrificed his life to protect his comrades during a critical medical evacuation under heavy fire. His heroic actions on the battlefield earned him the Medal of Honor, awarded posthumously in recognition of his valor.
Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Andrew Celiz's journey to becoming a U.S. Army Ranger began with a deep sense of duty and a desire to serve his country. Born on January 12, 1986, in Summerville, South Carolina, Celiz grew up with a strong work ethic and a natural inclination toward leadership. His commitment to service eventually led him to enlist in the U.S. Army in 2008. Christoper subsequently completed RASP and was selected to join the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment.
Sgt. 1st Class Christopher Celiz lost his life on July 12, 2018, during a fierce battle in Afghanistan’s Paktia Province. Celiz was leading his team in combat when they came under heavy enemy fire. As a medevac helicopter arrived to extract wounded soldiers, Celiz heroically positioned himself between the enemy and the helicopter, shielding it from fire. Despite being mortally wounded, he ensured the helicopter could safely evacuate his comrades. Celiz’s selfless actions saved lives, and he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his extraordinary bravery.