Christopher Chebahtah:  

Life Right after school I joined the USMC. I served from 1979-1993. I started as a F-4 Phantom electrician, we then received the F-18 Hornet were I stayed as an electrical systems tech. I then did a lateral move into EOD Explosive Ordnance Disposal ( were I received my first explosive related injury). While in the USMC I served at MCAS El Toro CA 1980-1984 1988-1993, and NAS Cecil Field Fla 1984-1987. I did a couple of WEST PACS 1988-89, 1990-91, to Japan, Korea, Philipines, Okinawa, and Wake Island. I also made a few trips aboard the USS Coral Sea, Saratoga, and Esinhower. After the USMC I joined the CA Army National Guard from 1994 until present (2007). I started as a FO Forward Observer from the 3/144 FA attached to Co C 4-160 INF MECH at Fairmount Park. I them went Mechanized Infantry with Co C 4-160inf MECH at Faimount Park. I then transfered to Co A 1-184 INF AASLT in Compton Ca. I then transfered to Co D 1-184 Anti Armor/Heavy Weapons. We then moved to Fullerton. In 2003 I was activated to Los Alamitos JFTB 40th ID planning cell to plan an upcoming mission to Kosovo. I was then activated in 2004 with 29th SIB 1-184 BN Co D 3rd plt for duty in Iraq, OIF III. Our battalion was attached to the 3rd ID 4 BDE. We deployed in country Jan 2005-Jan 2006. I was a platoon SGT of 3rd Plt Co D 1-184. I became the Platoon leader in Oct after my PL was wounded. I eventually lost 2 troops KIA and a total of 19 combat related injuries sustained by my troops. My platoon ranged from 14-24 troops at any given time. Of the original 14 we returned with only 4 originals. My platoon earned 4 Bronze Stars (1 for valor and I myself was one awardee) 1 ARCOM with V device (for valor) about 10 more ARCOMS and way too many Purple Hearts, with ...Expand for more