Army Private First Class Nicholas Alexander Madaras was born on October 21, 1986, and raised in Wilton, Connecticut, where he was known for his boundless energy, creativity, and empathy. As a child and young adult Nick lived abroad with his family in Taiwan and Hong Kong before returning to the United States, where he embraced American life and became deeply involved in community sports. From his earliest years he was driven, expressive, and comfortable leading others — traits that shaped both his civilian and military paths.

Nick’s connection to soccer began shortly after moving back to the U.S. and attending Wilton High School. With the support of committed Coaches and his own tenacious spirit, he became a standout player and team leader, known for his strategic thinking on the field and his ability to motivate teammates. Beyond playing, he also served as a youth coach for local teams, guiding young players with patience, encouragement, and a genuine belief in the positive power of sport. His athletic talent extended to baseball and lacrosse as well, but soccer remained his true passion — one through which he built friendships, taught leadership, and connected across generations of players.

Following his graduation from Wilton High School, Nick made the decision to serve his country. In January 2005, while still finishing his final semester of high school, he enlisted in the United States Army, driven by a sense of duty, courage, and the desire to contribute to something larger than himself. After completing basic and advanced training — including airborne school — he was assigned to 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division, stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado.

Specialist Madaras deployed to Iraq in early 2006 as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. In Iraq, he served as a driver and sharpshooter in convoys and support missions, including personal security detail operations. While performing a mission to evacuate wounded Soldiers to a hospital in Baquba, his convoy came under attack from multiple improvised explosive devices (IEDs). In the course of maneuvering to protect others and fulfill his duties with calm skill, Nick lost his life while serving at 19 years old on September 3, 2006, just weeks before his 20th birthday.

Nick’s service was recognized with multiple decorations, including the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal — testaments to both his bravery under fire and his steadfast professionalism throughout his military career.

Off duty and beyond his uniform, Nick’s compassion was evident in everything he did. During a leave in the summer before his loss, he noticed Iraqi children playing soccer with rocks due to a lack of equipment. Deeply moved, Nick asked his family to send soccer balls to distribute to them — a gesture that became the heart of the “Kick for Nick” legacy. Though he did not live to carry out that plan himself, the foundation established in his name has collected and delivered tens of thousands of soccer balls to children in war-torn and underserved regions around the world, spreading joy, friendship, and connection through sport.

Specialist Madaras was also an artistically creative and thoughtful individual, known for drawing, sketching, and engaging with peers through both humor and heartfelt conversation. His ability to find common ground with others — whether on the soccer field, in training, or in everyday life — left a lasting impression on family, friends, classmates, and fellow Soldiers alike.

In his hometown of Wilton, and beyond, Nick’s life is remembered not only for his service and sacrifice but for the values he embodied: leadership, compassion, joy, and a belief in the unifying power of sport and human connection. Memorials, fundraisers, and annual commemorations continue to honor his spirit, ensuring that his name and impact endure.

Dates:
• Birth: October 21, 1986 — Wilton, Connecticut
• Angelversary: September 3, 2006 — Baqouba, Iraq

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army, Private First Class
• 1st Battalion, 68th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division
• Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom
• Lost his life while serving during convoy and rescue operations in Baqouba, Iraq
• Awarded Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal

Nicholas Alexander Madaras’s life stands as a testament to a young man who served with courage, inspired others through compassion, and left a legacy that brings smiles to children around the world.

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