Army Specialist Tyanna Avery‑Felder was born on November 21, 1981, in Bridgeport, Connecticut, where she was raised in a close family with deep roots in the community. From a young age she exhibited a warm spirit, an engaging personality, and a commitment to others that shaped her relationships and endeavors. At Kolbe Cathedral High School, she was an active and vibrant student who excelled on the basketball court, lifted others’ spirits as a member of the choir, and engaged fully in school life. Her smile and enthusiasm left lasting impressions on classmates, teachers, and coaches.

After high school, Tyanna pursued her passion for education at Southern Connecticut State University, where she studied early childhood education with the dream of working with children. Her choice of field reflected her nurturing nature and her desire to make a positive difference in the lives of young people. She was known among friends for her patience, kindness, and ability to bring light to difficult moments — qualities that would follow her into her military service.

Feeling a call to serve her nation and support others on a larger stage, Tyanna made the courageous decision to join the United States Army following her freshman year of college. She completed basic training with distinction in South Carolina in 2001, impressing her drill instructors with her toughness and determination. It was clear to those who trained her that Tyanna was a dedicated young woman who approached every challenge with resolve and heart.

In December 2002, Tyanna married Adrian Felder, a fellow Soldier she met while stationed at Fort Lewis, Washington. Their partnership was grounded in mutual respect, shared values, and a deep bond forged through service. Although they were newly married, destiny soon called them to different paths as Tyanna prepared for deployment overseas.

Specialist Avery‑Felder was assigned to the 296th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division, serving as a food service specialist (Army cook) — a role that, like her life choices, was rooted in caring for others. Her unit was part of the Army’s efforts in Operation Iraqi Freedom, deployed to provide essential support to Soldiers in a challenging and dangerous environment.

On April 4, 2004, Tyanna’s convoy was struck by a roadside explosive device during operations in Iraq. She sustained serious wounds in the incident and was evacuated for medical care. On April 7, 2004, at just 22 years old, Tyanna lost her life while serving her country, just days before she was scheduled to return home for a long‑anticipated visit with her family in Bridgeport.

Tyanna’s passing reverberated through her community and the nation. She was the first woman Soldier from Connecticut to lose her life in the conflict in Iraq, a distinction that brought both profound sorrow and deep pride to her family and friends. The outpouring of grief at her memorial service reflected the breadth of impact she had on those who knew her — from family members to fellow Soldiers and community leaders. Her life was celebrated with dignity, pride, and remembrance of her radiant spirit.

In recognition of her service and sacrifice, Specialist Avery‑Felder was honored with the Purple Heart for the wounds she sustained in service, and the Bronze Star Medal for meritorious service in a combat zone. These honors stand as symbols of her courage, her dedication, and her willingness to put the welfare of others above her own.

Tyanna’s legacy continues to be remembered in Bridgeport and throughout Connecticut. A street in her hometown was dedicated in her memory, a testament to the way her life touched others and how her community came together to honor her service. Her story of service, love, and sacrifice remains a powerful reminder of the contributions of Connecticut’s service members.

She is remembered not just as a Soldier, but as a daughter, a wife, a friend, and a steadfast presence whose warmth and determination left an indelible mark on those who knew her. The legacy of Army Specialist Tyanna Avery‑Felder endures in the hearts of her loved ones, her military family, and all who honor her memory and the life she lived in service to others.

Dates:
• Birth: November 21, 1981
• Angelversary: April 7, 2004

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army, Specialist
• Food Service Specialist, 296th Brigade Support Battalion, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division
• Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom
• Awarded Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal

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