Chris grew up in Indianapolis, Indiana, and graduated from Lawrence Central High School in 2005, where he played football. He loved cars and motorcycles, especially his Harley. Whether playing Guitar Hero, going to rock concerts, or shooting pool at his favorite bars, he embraced life with enthusiasm. Known for his strong spirit, clear sense of purpose, and boundless energy, he brought joy to everyone around him. His sense of humor could keep his friends laughing for hours.

Two months after graduating, he enlisted in the Army. After completing basic training and Airborne School at Fort Benning, Georgia, he was assigned to the Support Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2007 and worked at detention facilities at FOB Salerno. At the end of that tour, he requested to join an infantry unit and was transferred to the 2nd Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team. He deployed again in 2009 to the Arghandab River Valley in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, as a team leader. He was the epitome of a paratrooper—motivated, competent, and full of life. He was killed on August 11, 2010, while orchestrating suppressive fire during an insurgent attack on his unit.

His legacy lives on through his family, friends, and comrades.