Zachary Shanafelt

Specialist, United States Army

June 23, 1988 – November 21, 2013
Age – 24
Cedar Springs, MI

Combat Medic, Attack Battery, 1–84th Field Artillery, 170th Infantry BCT

Died from injuries in an accident at Combat Outpost Qaisar in Fariyab Province, Afghanistan

SPC Zachary A. Shanafelt, age 24, was born June 23, 1988. On November 21, 2012, he passed away while bravely and honorably serving his country in the U.S. Army. 

SPC Shanafelt served five months as a combat medic in Afghanistan with the Attack Battery 1-84th Field Artillery at Combat Outpost Qaisar, Fariyab Province. He was injured and sent stateside to Walter Reed Medical Center for treatment. Here he was attached to the Wounded Warriors program. He died at Walter Reed the morning of November 21, 2012.

While in the Army as a Combat Medic, Zach not only excelled at his job, but he sincerely loved helping people and saving lives. He fell in love with the children of Afghanistan and was always requesting that things (not for himself) to be sent to where he was stationed so he could pass the gifts out to the children. His heart was as big as they come.

All who knew him know that he had only one speed and direction which was straight forward and fast as hell. Whether it was playing the guitar, cooking, “dairy challenge”, dancing, working, or playing, he always brought an unmatched gusto to the game. He inspired those around him to either rise up or stay home, because there was no halfway for him.

Zach was a total extrovert with the world’s greatest sense of humor. He faced everyday and every challenge with an unparalleled passion and a belief that hard work and a positive attitude would always conquer. He was a dreamer who always imagined the impossible then made those dreams a reality. How he always managed to do this and take all of us with him will remain one of life’s great mysteries. All of us knew his ideas were crazy and hair brained, but no one could say no. Perhaps because we knew that no matter the outcome, the ride would be worth it. Zachary, I think that I speak for everyone who knew you, “The ride was definitely worth it.”

SPC Shanafelt dreamed of becoming a pediatric physician assistant. The joy he got from helping kids was apparent to those he served with in Afghanistan. He gave toys to the children in villages and always offered a high five.