Michael Bennet: “it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life and heroic service of SGT Aaron B. Cruttenden. Sergeant…”

“it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to honor the life and heroic service of SGT Aaron B. Cruttenden. Sergeant Cruttenden, assigned to the 27th Engineer Battalion, based in Fort Bragg, NC, died on November 7, 2010, of injuries sustained when his dismounted patrol encountered small arms fire. Sergeant Cruttenden was serving in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. He was 25 years old. A native of Mesa, AZ, Sergeant Cruttenden earned his graduate equivalency diploma and worked for 2 years as an apprentice electrician. He then enlisted in the Army in March 2008. Sergeant Cruttenden hoped to defend his country, make a better life for his family, and pursue opportunities for higher education. He served a tour of duty in Afghanistan with decoration. During his 22 years of service, Sergeant Cruttenden distinguished himself through his courage, dedication to duty, and willingness to take on one of the most dangerous and skillful jobs in the Army-- detecting and eliminating improvised explosive devices. Throughout Sergeant Cruttenden's time in the Army, family members recall that his foremost concern was protecting the men and women under his command. Sergeant Cruttenden worked on the front lines of battle, serving in the most dangerous areas of Afghanistan. He is remembered by those who knew him as a consummate professional with an unending commitment to excellence.”