United States Army Staff Sgt. Edwin J. Rivera was born on May 10, 1982, in New London, Connecticut, and raised in nearby Waterford. He graduated from Waterford High School in 2000, where he became known as a cheerful, generous, and caring young man whose presence brought comfort and friendship to those around him. Even in his youth, Edwin carried a strong sense of empathy and responsibility — qualities that presaged his future leadership and deep commitment to others.

After high school, Edwin chose a life of service that led him to enlist in the United States Army and eventually into the Connecticut Army National Guard. He served as a combat infantryman with the 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment, a unit with a proud tradition of excellence and readiness. Rivera’s military career included extensive training and deployments, reflecting both his discipline and his desire to make a meaningful difference in the world. Support and leadership of fellow Soldiers became central to his identity within the unit.

Staff Sgt. Rivera deployed to Afghanistan for the first time in 2006–2007, where he served an extended 15-month tour filled with the challenges and responsibilities of combat and mentorship. His motivation to return to Afghanistan for a second deployment was shaped not only by duty but by compassion — he was deeply moved by the plight of Afghan children he encountered, understanding that even small acts of kindness could nourish hope in difficult places.

When he was ordered back to Afghanistan in 2010 with the 86th Infantry Brigade Combat Team Mountain, Rivera embraced the mission of assisting, training, and mentoring Afghan security forces — including the army, police, and border police — with the same fervor that defined his first tour. His leadership and commitment were rooted in a belief that Americans could help foster peace and stability not only through force but through respect, guidance, and support of others.

On May 20, 2010, while serving in Laghman Province, Afghanistan, Staff Sgt. Rivera’s unit came under enemy attack. He was wounded in action and was later evacuated to the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. After fighting bravely for several days, Rivera lost his life while serving on May 25, 2010, at the age of 28. His passing occurred just before Memorial Day, reinforcing the solemn connection between his ultimate sacrifice and the national remembrance of those who have given their lives in uniform.

Off duty, Edwin balanced his military responsibilities with life as a devoted husband and father. Before his deployment, he worked as an evening-shift security guard at the Millstone Nuclear Power Plant in Waterford while his wife Yesenia worked by day in a dental office. Together, they raised their two young sons, Rolando and Lorenzo, whom Edwin supported with care and dedication, ensuring they had stability, guidance, and love.

Those who knew Rivera remembered him as a cheerful, giving person whose laughter and warmth were infectious. Friends and family noted his genuine concern for others, his willingness to uplift those around him, and his ability to make people feel valued — simple qualities that left a profound emotional legacy.

In recognition of his selfless service and sacrifice, Staff Sgt. Rivera was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman Badge, honors that reflect bravery under fire and dedication to mission and comrades. The Governor of Connecticut ordered that United States and state flags be flown at half-staff until his burial, acknowledging the depth of respect and gratitude for his life and sacrifice.

Dates:
• Birth: May 10, 1982 — New London/Waterford, Connecticut
• Angelversary: May 25, 2010 — Laghman Province, Afghanistan

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army Staff Sergeant, Connecticut Army National Guard, 1st Battalion, 102nd Infantry Regiment
• Served in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan
• Completed two deployments to Afghanistan and multiple professional military education milestones
• Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge (posthumous)

United States Army Staff Sgt. Edwin J. Rivera’s life was marked by courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment — a legacy that continues to inspire his family, fellow Soldiers, and the communities he served at home and abroad.

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