Wilson A. Algrim
Private First Class, Army National Guard
July 30, 1985 – December 23, 2006
Age – 21
Howell, Michigan
Operation Iraqi Freedom
1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment, Michigan Army National Guard, Big Rapids, MI
Killed by an Improvised Explosive Devise during combat operations in Salman Park, Iraq Also killed were SPC Chad J. Vollmer and PVT Bobby Mejia II
Wilson was born in Antioquia, Columbia and adopted with his two sisters and one brother when he was 8 by Don and Judy Algrim. Judy lived in Columbia when she taught at the University of the Andes, in Bogota, Columbia. He a quiet, likable guy who was able to overcome several obstacles and mold himself into a strong young man during his time spent in the armed forces. Wilson Algrim attended Howell Public Schools for a short time, but since he had never gone to school in Columbia, he was far behind his classmates and attended Michigan Youth Challenge Academy at Fort Custer Training Center. The program gives students a lot of help with tutoring and vocational education. He graduated from this program in 2004 and eventually became part of the Michigan Army National Guard. He excelled there, winning an award for athleticism, graduating in 2004 and finding his life’s purpose.
Wilson was gregarious, courageous, curious, friendly, loving and affectionate. Wilson, one of the “9-11 generation,” recognized this generation’s willingness to volunteer for dangerous war duty.