SSgt Christopher Slaydon, EOD 

Staff Sergeant Christopher Slaydon is an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team member assigned to the 56th Civil Engineering Squadron, Luke AFB, AZ. On October 25, 2007, while on a joint mission with the Army’s 10th Mountain Division in Iraq, he was seriously wounded while attempting to disarm an improvised explosive device (IED). The IED detonated, blinding Sergeant Slaydon and severing his left arm.

The medals he has received from both the Army and the Air Force attest to the fact he is a war hero. For him, Service before Self is the only way to live.

Despite loss of sight and one arm, Sergeant Slaydon is determined to move on with life and continue to contribute. His hard work and dedication have paid off, and he is mastering new skills, participates in numerous activities, and makes increasingly frequent public speaking appearances. His wife, Annette, has been instrumental in his recovery; together, they epitomize the strength and contribution of Air Force families.

Sergeant Slaydon’s actions in the aftermath of his traumatic experiences have demonstrated his ability to rise above his injuries and become a tremendous inspiration and example to others – a real hero. He spends much of his time helping other wounded and injured patients at Brooke Army Medical Center. His goal is to further his education and ability to assist wounded service members, especially those with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injuries.