CALDWELL, CHAD

Chad A. Caldwell was born on July 18, 1983, at Fairchild AFB and was a 2001 graduate of Cheney High School. Plain and simple, to know Chad was to love him. He was a man that others looked to for leadership and protection, but also for a heart-felt laugh. The mischievous twinkle in Chad's eye was always a signal that good times were on the way. His smile was infectious, and he had an uncanny ability to see the bright side of any situation. Chad took immense pride in his family, particularly his children. 

Previously to his last deployment, SSG Caldwell had served two other deployments, one to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. In his previous deployment, SSG Caldwell was awarded the Army Commendation Medal twice for his heroism. The first medal came after he located and pulled a pregnant woman from underneath the rubble of a U.N. Headquarters building that was bombed. His second medal came after his convoy was pinned down by heavy enemy fire coming from the roof tops. SSG Caldwell exited his vehicle providing cover fire; ultimately drawing enemy fire upon himself, allowing his Lieutenant Colonel to get out of imminent danger and seek cover.  

According to Lt. Rusty Morris, “He could flip the switch … that was a brilliant thing about him. We could be bone tired running all the time and we would get some place and just pissed off and look across and he has a big grin like, what’s up, smoking cigarettes. He was a very hot-and-cold kind of guy but all in a good way.” 

Chad was a beloved husband to his wife Rachel whom he met in high school. They met while working part time jobs for a telemarking firm. Since she was too timid to make phone calls, Chad would make them for her. They got married in 2002, just before Chad left for basic training.  

Chad was also a dedicated and loving father to his two boys, Trevor and Coen. While on deployment he would often make short 3-minute phone calls, or use instant messages to communicate with Rachel, while she was pregnant with Coen. After Coen made his arrival in the world, SSG Caldwell was able to make a call that night and hear his new sons cries.  

SSG Caldwell was killed in action on his third deployment while conducting dismounted combat operations on April 30, 2008 when he was struck by an Improvised Explosive Device in Mosul Iraq. Chad was just two weeks away from coming home for his mid-tour leave.   

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers SSG Chad Caldwell for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.