Today, we celebrate the life and birthday of PFC Nicholas A. Madaras, a young man whose passion for soccer and commitment to service continue to inspire and uplift others. Born on October 21, 1986, Nick grew up in Wilton, Connecticut, where his love for soccer began as a childhood hobby and evolved into a lifelong passion. 

Nick’s early life reflected his diverse experiences, from living abroad in Taiwan and Hong Kong to returning to the U.S., where he embraced the spirit of American sports and excelled in soccer. He began as an assistant coach for the Wilton Soccer Association while still in middle school and became a head coach by his freshman year of high school, guiding youth boys’ intramural soccer teams with compassion, encouragement, and sportsmanship. 

Nick was more than just a coach; he was a leader who made his players feel seen and valued. His teams left the field happy, win or lose, thanks to his personal attention and belief in their abilities. It was this same sense of purpose and dedication that carried Nick into the U.S. Army.

At 18 years old, Nick enlisted in January 2005, while still completing his final semester of high school. He shipped off to Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, in July of the same year, and after completing his training, he stayed for Jump School. By November, Nick was assigned to the Silver Lions, 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division at Fort Carson, Colorado. He left for Iraq in February 2006, serving as part of the Personal Security Detail (PSD) for Lt. Col. Thomas Fisher.

Nick’s duties were far from ordinary. As the unit’s driver and sharpshooter, he took on crucial responsibilities, including the safe escort of his battalion commander. On September 3, 2006, while performing a mission to rescue wounded soldiers in Baqubah, Iraq, Nick’s convoy encountered a series of deadly improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Despite the danger, Nick’s heroic actions saved lives, though he ultimately lost his own in the line of duty. His selfless bravery earned him multiple commendations, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal.

Nick’s story, however, doesn’t end with his military service. He returned home briefly on leave during the summer of 2006, where he shared stories of the children he encountered in Iraq. These children, despite the turmoil around them, displayed a deep love for soccer, using whatever they could find as makeshift balls. Nick was so moved by their resilience that he asked his family to send soccer balls to Iraq, hoping to bring a bit of joy and normalcy to their lives.

Though Nick never had the chance to distribute those soccer balls, his legacy lives on through the “Kick For Nick” program, established in his honor by his family and friends. This initiative collects and distributes soccer balls to children in war-torn regions, spreading hope, friendship, and unity. Nick’s dream of connecting with these children through soccer continues to foster goodwill across cultural and political divides.

Nick’s impact extends beyond his life and service. In 2011, the The PFC Nicholas A. Madaras Home, opened in Connecticut, providing a safe and supportive environment for women veterans and their young children. This home serves as a transitional facility that empowers veterans to rebuild their lives and achieve independence. The work of this home is a testament to Nick’s compassionate spirit and the legacy of generosity he left behind.

Today, on Nick’s birthday, we honor a remarkable young man who, in just 19 years, touched the lives of many with his love for soccer, his dedication to serving others, and his ultimate sacrifice for his country. His story of courage, kindness, and determination continues to inspire, and through his legacy, countless lives have been made better.

As we celebrate his birthday, we remember the joy he brought to those around him and the lasting impact he made on the world. His life, though cut short, remains a beacon of hope and unity, reminding us all of the power of compassion and service.