Private First Class Andre Craig, Jr., born on June 18, 1983, in New Haven, Connecticut, tragically passed away on June 25, 2007, due to wounds sustained from an improvised explosive device near his convoy in Baghdad, Iraq. A dedicated soldier and gunner assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Craig joined the Army in 2005 and was known for his bravery and commitment.

A graduate of Wilbur Cross High School, Craig was remembered as a quiet leader who often volunteered and aimed to make his family proud. Despite deplorable conditions in Iraq, he found fulfillment in his service, aspiring to become a state trooper and planning to use his military experience to further his education. He sacrificed his personal ambitions for the greater good, turning down a scholarship to Rutgers University to serve his country.

Craig’s family, deeply affected by his loss, includes his daughter, Taylor, who was born during his deployment, his wife, Shantia, his mother, a nurse’s aide at the Hospital of St. Raphael, and his five siblings. Craig had recently returned home for a brief visit to celebrate his birthday and meet his newborn daughter. His younger brother, Jonathan, recalled Craig’s last words, entrusting him to care for Taylor until his return.

The family, friends, and community held a funeral service in New Haven, with plans for his burial at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. Governor M. Jodi Rell ordered flags to be flown at half-staff in Craig’s honor, recognizing his sacrifice and bravery. Eric Brown, Craig’s godfather, spoke of his dedication and the exhaustion faced by soldiers, highlighting the challenges Craig endured.

Private First Class Andre Craig, Jr.’s commitment to protecting freedom and his ultimate sacrifice will never be forgotten. His memory lives on in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him