United States Army Private First Class Andre Eric Craig Jr. was born on June 18, 1983, in New Haven, Connecticut. Known to family and friends as “Dre,” he grew up in a close‑knit family in the Hill neighborhood, where he was respected as a positive role model and someone who encouraged others to do the right thing — especially young people in his community.

Craig graduated from Wilbur Cross High School where he was remembered as a quiet leader who volunteered for tasks, helped classmates, and carried himself with integrity. While still considering his future, he had plans to pursue higher education and dreamed of becoming a state trooper, even turning down a scholarship to Rutgers University to serve his country.

Driven by a deep sense of duty and a desire to support his family and future aspirations, Andre Craig Jr. enlisted in the United States Army in October 2005. After completing Basic Training and Javelin Infantry School, he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas, where he excelled as an infantryman and gunner.

Craig deployed to Iraq in February 2007 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he served amid the challenging and dangerous environment of Baghdad. While conducting patrol and security operations, his unit was responsible for protecting fellow Soldiers, civilians, and key infrastructure in the region.

On June 25, 2007, Private First Class Andre Craig Jr. lost his life while serving after his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED) in Baghdad, Iraq. He was 24 years old, and his passing left a profound impact on his family — including his wife, Shawntia, and his infant daughter, Taylor, who was born earlier in his deployment — as well as his five siblings and his mother, a nurse’s aide at the Hospital of St. Raphael in New Haven.

Craig was the first resident of New Haven to lose his life in the Iraq War, a distinction recognized in state records and memorials honoring Connecticut’s fallen service members. His family and community remembered him not only for his service but for his stability, loyalty, and the deep love he showed to those closest to him.

At his memorial service in New Haven, hundreds of friends, family, military members, and state officials gathered to pay tribute to his life and sacrifice. Flags were ordered to be flown at half‑staff in Connecticut in his honor, reflecting the deep respect and sorrow held by his community.

Dates:
• Birth: June 18, 1983 — New Haven, Connecticut
• Angelversary: June 25, 2007 — Baghdad, Iraq

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army, Private First Class
• 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division
• Served in Operation Iraqi Freedom
• Assigned as infantryman and gunner
• Honored for bravery, dedication, and selfless service protecting fellow Soldiers

United States Army PFC Andre Eric Craig Jr.’s life stands as a testament to his unwavering devotion to his country, his love for family, and his courage in the face of danger — a legacy that continues to be deeply honored by all who knew him.

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