About Chris Enget

At the young age of 17, I embarked on a journey that would shape the course of my life in ways I could never have imagined. Joining the military, I stepped into a world of discipline, dedication, and service. My military career began in the artillery, where I served as a cannon crewmember, a role that required precision, teamwork, and a relentless commitment to the task at hand.

 

However, the evolving nature of military operations, particularly in regions like Afghanistan and Iraq, necessitated a swift transition. I was moved to combat support as a military police officer. This role brought new challenges and responsibilities, as I contributed to the vital task of maintaining order and security within the military framework.

 

In 2007, a profound change occurred in my military path. I was entrusted with the solemn and honorable duty of coordinating and performing military funeral honors in Montana. At just 19 years old, I became the State Master Trainer, a position that speaks volumes about the trust and confidence placed in my abilities by my superiors.

 

Over six years, I performed over 1,200 funerals. Each ceremony was a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by my fellow servicemen and women. This duty was not just a job; it was a sacred obligation to honor those who had given their all for our country.

 

The call of duty took me overseas when I was deployed to Afghanistan with the 484th Military Police Company. Here, my role shifted to an educator as I took on the responsibility of teaching and training the Afghan police. This experience was not only about imparting knowledge but also about building bridges of understanding and cooperation in a complex and often volatile environment.

 

After 12 years of service, my military journey came to an end in 2017 when I was medically discharged. The experiences I gained, the skills I honed, and the memories I made during my service continue to shape who I am today. My military career was a tapestry of diverse roles, each significant and fulfilling in its own right, woven together by a common thread of service and sacrifice.

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However in 2012, everything changed....

June 26th, 2012, marked a pivotal moment in my military career. While stationed at Camp Nathan Smith in Afghanistan, I experienced an event that would challenge my physical and mental fortitude like never before. An RPG detonated merely five feet away from me within the confines of a tent, a moment that remains etched in my memory for its suddenness and its life-altering impact.

 

Injuries and Resolve

The explosion caused significant damage to my left foot and leg. It was a serious injury that demanded immediate and intensive medical attention. The Army, prioritizing my health and recovery, proposed to send me to Germany for more comprehensive medical care. However, in a true testament to my character and rooted in my Montanan spirit, I chose a different path.

 

Staying the Course

Refusing to leave my post and my comrades, I opted to remain in Afghanistan. It was a decision that epitomized my dedication to my duties and my resilience in the face of adversity. For the next five months, I continued my service, even as my physical condition progressively deteriorated. This period was not just a testament to my determination but also a reflection of the complex choices faced by those in service.

 

Reflection

This chapter of my journey in the military is a stark reminder of the sacrifices and the tough decisions made by those who serve. It speaks to the spirit of endurance and commitment that I carried throughout my military career. Though it eventually contributed to my medical discharge in 2017, this experience stands as a powerful testament to my dedication and resilience as a soldier and as an individual.