MASCOUTAH, IL (KTVI) – The body of a U.S. Army staff sergeant from Granite City returned home Monday morning as his loved ones prepare to say a final goodbye.
Army officials said Staff Sgt. Christopher Wilbur died August 12 in a non-combat related incident in Kandahar, Afghanistan. Wilbur was 36. He leaves behind a wife and two young children, among others.
An exact cause of death has not been released.
Wilbur’s obituary said he was a faithful and loving husband, father, son and brother, and will forever be remembered for the love and special times shared with his family and service he gave to his country.
Wilbur had been in the army since June 2005. He was in his second tour of duty in Afghanistan when he died after previously serving two tours of duty in Iraq.
The Pentagon said Wilbur was involved in operations connected with combating terrorism in Afghanistan.
The Patriot Guard escorted Wilbur’s body from Mid-America Airport to Irwin Chapel in Granite City. Visitation and funeral services are scheduled for Wednesday.
Wilbur will be buried with full military honors.
