Honoree: Adam J. Chitjian


Adam J. Chitjian
Dates: Died October 25, 2007
Hometown: Philadelphia, PA
Branch of Service: Army
Rank: Corporal
Player: Eric Doyle

Corporal Adam Chitjian, 39, of Philadelphia, PA was a combat engineer assigned to 3rd Battalion, 8th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood Texas. He died October 25, 2007, in Balad, Iraq of injuries sustained when he encountered enemy forces using small arms.

A graduate of George Washington High School in Northeast, CPL Chitjian left his job and joined the army 2 days before his 35th birthday. He was so angered following 9/11 terrorist attack that he wanted to make a difference; to fight and defend his country and the freedoms we all take advantage of.

“He enjoyed riding his Harley, dirt bike, collecting guns and knives, music, art, movies and eating great meals,” said his wife, Shirley. “He was kind-hearted, so much so that he opened his heart and home to abandoned dogs and cats.

“The one thing I remember most about Cpl. Chitjian was his big heart," said his commander, Mathew Miletich. "No matter what problems he faced, whether at home or at work, he was always there to lend a helping hand, give an ear to listen to, give the shirt off his back, or just pick you up when you were down.”

SGT Chitjian is survived by his wife, Shirley.