News : Wagner recognized as Benton County's Veteran of the Month for February

Even prior to his graduation from North Tama High School, senior Chris Wagner from Traer enlisted in the United States Army thereby keeping the family tradition alive and well. A fourth-generation military man; his service came after his father's, who served in Vietnam, his grandfather's, who served in WWII, and even his great-grandfather's service in WWI.Chris shipped to basic training and advanced individual training once he graduated from high school and served from 1989 until 1997. His first military occupational specialty (MOS), or "job" for our civilian readers, was a Patriot Missile Systems Operator/Mechanic. In layman's terms, think of air defense; missiles that shoot down other missiles. Stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, he deployed to Saudi Arabia in support of Operation Desert Storm and Operation Desert Shield in 1990-91. After about four years, he reclassed into the telecommunications field and was stationed in Virginia at the Pentagon for the remainder of his time in service.A few of Chris's favorite memories and pastimes of his military service was getting a chance to meet all of the different people and an opportunity to travel all over the Country.Chris was offered a job at Rockwell Collins (now Collins Aerospace) even prior to his separation and he still continues to work there. He resides in Vinton with his wife and they have two grown children. In his free time, Chris enjoys fishing, riding in his side by side, woodworking, spending time with friends and being outdoors.On behalf of Benton County, thank you for your service, Chris.