Christopher P. Messer
Sergeant, United States Army
November 17, 1978 – December 27, 2006
Age – 28
Petersburg, MI
Operation Iraqi Freedom
4th Battalion, 31st Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, Fort Drum, NY
Died of wounds received from an improvised explosive device that detonated near him while on dismounted patrol
Sgt. Christopher P. Messer of Petersburg, Mich., was a native of Petersburg, Mich., and enlisted in the Army in February 2003 completing basic and advanced individual training at Fort Benning, Ga. Chris participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom from February 2004 to March 2005.
His military education includes the Warrior Leader Course and the Combat Livesaver Course.
Christopher married his beloved wife on December 27, 2003 at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Ida, MI. He attended Ida Public Schools and graduated from Dundee Alternative High School.
Christopher enjoyed fishing and camping. His awards and decorations include the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal with ‘V’ device, Valorous Unit Award, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge and the Driver Badge.
SGT Messer was remembered by his fellow soldiers with the following memorials.
June 20, 2021
SGT Messer was a true inspiration to all whom he served with in the Army. He was an excellent leader and Soldier. He did not leave this world without serving a purpose. I am a firsthand witness.
He loved his family dearly, always spoke about how happy and thankful he was to have such a great family and wife. Sharing photos and memories of family and the new house was an excitement for him.
I’m Sorry you didn’t get to live your life to the fullest potential. You did your part and then some. Hope there’s plenty of big fish where you are right now. Until we meet again, Rest In Peace my friend.
Thank you for your service and being the person you were.
Ronnie Montgomery
Military
June 19, 2021
SGT Messer,
It was truly an awesome experience having you serve as our section leader in Iraq during our 2006 deployment. 1LT Dudish and I couldn’t have asked for a better leader. You were sharp, disciplined, focused, skillful, watchful, caring and extremely motivated.
Most of all, you had a huge heart and a never quit positive attitude. You never gave up and we had some tough times that made some boys men and some men quit.
You looked over your Soldiers first over yourself and ensured they were always ready to accomplish their mission. You always gave them purpose and direction as a true leader should. You showed no fear and you never hesitated during your mission.
Over the past years since your unexpected loss, just know you are thought about and talked about a lot. I know you are missed very much by your Family and I am truly sorry things worked out this way.
The tremendous courage you displayed in combat is remarkable and you are a true hero my friend.
Thank you for everything you have done for your troops, the unit, the Iraqi people, and the U.S. Army. Your ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. Not many leaders out there like you. Rest In Peace my friend, I know you are in a better place now and probably watching over us snickering and giggling at times as you once did.
My prayers and condolences go out to your Family, loved ones and friends who still grieve over your loss.
I will stop by and visit you soon.
May god bless you, your Family and thank you for your exceptional military service.
1SG (ret) Ronnie Montgomery, U.S. Army.
“Polar Bears”