A life of fulfillment

Image courtesy: Freedom Remembered

Staff Sgt. Christopher Worrell didn't have to join the Army and repeatedly re-enlist. He served his country because he wanted to help others and give his life a sense of purpose.

"He just decided that’s what he wanted to do," [brother] Patrick Worrell said. "He talked about wanting to do it, talked to a recruiter, and joined up."

According to The Virginian-Pilot, Staff Sgt. Worrell became a soldier about two years after he graduated from his Virginia Beach area high school in 1995. During his 13 years of service, the highly-decorated automated logistical specialist deployed once to Korea and three times to Iraq.

A Defense Department news release said Worrell, 35, died on April 22 in Baghdad in an incident that is being classified as non-combat related. The soldier was assigned to the 702nd Combat Support Battalion, 4th Stryker Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division.

While many relatives stayed in the Virginia Beach area, Worrell lived near Washington's Fort Lewis with his wife and two sons, ages 5 and 12. Alicia Wittmeyer's article said he will be buried in Washington state, but there will also be a memorial service in Virginia.

Even during a third tour in war-torn Iraq, Patrick Worrell said his brother truly enjoyed his life's work. While the soldier's death has undoubtedly devastated his family, hopefully the fact that he was doing something he loved will comfort them in these dark hours. By following his passion, Staff Sgt. Christopher Worrell set an example to his young boys that can guide them through life. Do something you enjoy, but also make sure you are serving others.