Soldier from Navajo Nation dies in Iraq

Associated Press
Tucson, Arizona Published: 05.16.2007

PHOENIX - A soldier from the Navajo Nation has died serving in Iraq, his family said Tuesday.

Army Sgt. Christopher Neil Gonzalez, 25, was killed Monday, though the Department of Defense has not confirmed or released details of his death.

Leonard Chee, a delegate to the Navajo Nation Council, said in a statement the entire Navajo community was in shock.

"This war has really hit home. Say a prayer for all our Navajo Native American soldiers who are in Iraq fighting," Chee said.

According to Chee, Gonzalez was carrying out his second tour of duty in Iraq and left behind a wife and child.

Details on funeral services were not known.

Survivors include his mother, Judy Nez of Birdsprings, Ariz.

On Tuesday, Navajo Nation President Joe Shirley issued a proclamation in honor and in recognition of Sgt. Gonzalez.

Shirley also ordered flags on the Navajo Nation flown at half-staff from May 16 to May 20 in honor of Gonzalez.