September 15, 1985 – November 1, 2011

Sergeant Christopher Drew Gailey, known to family and friends as Chris, was a devoted soldier, loving father, and cherished member of his community from Ochelata, Oklahoma. He gave his life in service to his country while deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. 

Chris was born on September 15, 1985, in Bartlesville, Oklahoma, to Shan Gene and Tammy Jo (Maples) Gailey. He grew up in the area, attending school in Bartlesville and later Wentworth Military Academy in Lexington, Missouri, before graduating from Caney Valley High School in Ramona in 2005. 

He enlisted in the Oklahoma Army National Guard in 2004, beginning what would become a distinguished seven-year military career. His service included a deployment to Iraq in 2007 and, later, a deployment to Afghanistan in June 2011 with the 700th Brigade Support Battalion, 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, based in Sand Springs, Oklahoma. In Afghanistan, he served as a motor vehicle operator. 

On November 1, 2011, at 26 years old, Sergeant Gailey was killed in action in Laja Ahmad Khel, Paktia Province, when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated near the vehicle he was in during a mission. He was serving with Company F of his battalion when he made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of his fellow soldiers and his country. 

Chris is remembered not only for his dedication to duty but also for his warm personality and the joy he brought to those around him. Friends and loved ones recalled his outgoing spirit and constant smile, qualities that made him a beloved figure both at home and in uniform. 

He is survived by his parents, Shan and Tammy; his daughter, Allison Marie Gailey; his siblings; and extended family members. Following his death, he was promoted posthumously to the rank of E-5 (Sergeant). His funeral service was held with full military rites in Bartlesville, and he was laid to rest at Ochelata Cemetery. 

Sergeant Christopher D. Gailey’s life was one of service, love, and sacrifice. His commitment to his family and his country endures in the memories of those who knew him and in the legacy of freedom he helped defend.