United States Army Captain Tristan N. Aitken served with the 1st Battalion, 41st Field Artillery, 3rd Infantry Division during Operation Iraqi Freedom. A dedicated officer, he was killed in action when a grenade struck his vehicle. He was awarded the Bronze Star and Purple Heart.

Tristan was known as a committed and enthusiastic leader who embraced his role with passion and humility. He served not for recognition, but out of a deep sense of duty. His strength, integrity and spirit left a lasting impression on his fellow soldiers, friends and family.

The grief carried by those who loved him – his family, his fellow soldiers, his community – is a measure of the profound impression he made in a life lived with purpose and integrity.