U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Kevin J. Kessler was born on July 18, 1978 in Canton, Ohio. Kessler was a motor transport operator who entered the Army in June 2004. He served two tours in Iraq where he had been awarded the Army Commendation Medal with Valor and the Army Commendation Medal. Kessler was a member of the 1st Battalion, 66th Armored Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 4th Infantry Division Fort Carson, Colorado, when he deployed to Afghanistan the summer of 2010. Staff Sgt. Kevin J. Kessler was killed in action while serving his country in the Arghandab River Valley, Afghanistan, on August 30th, 2010.

Kevin is remembered as a fun-loving guy with an infectious smile. He was motivated to make change and was a leader that his soldiers could count on. He loved exploring the outdoors and conquered some of the most amazing summits while stationed in Colorado. His family and friends will always remember him as an American hero who selflessly gave his all while serving his country.