James D. Blankenbecler
American soldier (b. 1963, d. 2003)
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
James D. Blankenbecler (June 27, 1963 – October 1, 2003) was an American command sergeant major and the highest-ranking enlisted soldier to be killed by hostile fire in the Iraq War.[1]
James D. Blankenbecler | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | June 27, 1963 |
| Died | October 1, 2003 (aged 40) |
Branch | United States Army |
Rank | Command Sergeant Major |
Early life and education
Blankenbecler was born on June 27, 1963, in Arlington County, Virginia.[2] Blankenbecler grew up in Northern Virginia and attended Groveton High School (now West Potomac High School).[3]
Military career
Blankenbecler joined the United States Army in 1983 and served during the Gulf War and at Fort Belvoir.[3]
In 2003, Blankenbecler was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 44th Air Defense Artillery Regiment at Fort Hood, Texas and deployed to Iraq.[1][4]
Death and legacy
Blankenbecler died on October 1, 2003, in Samarra, Iraq, due to injuries sustained after being in convoy that was "hit by an improvised explosive device and rocket-propelled grenades".[3][1][5]
In 2005, a bill was passed by the Virginia General Assembly to honor Blankenbecler.[6]
In 2014, the CSM James D. Blankenbecler Resilience Center was opened and dedicated in Blankenbecler's name.[1]
In 2018, West Potomac High School held a Veteran's Day of Service to honor Blankenbecler.[7]
