Brigade honors untimely death of one of their own

By Staff ReportJuly 23, 2012

2nd Lt. Christina Cornejo
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Memorial
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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. - Nearly 200 people attended a memorial July 18 for 2nd Lt. Christina Cornejo, who passed away here July 13. She was a full-time Soldier in the Colorado Army National Guard 's 100th Missile Defense Brigade in Colorado Springs, Colo. A Guard member since 2006, she was previously assigned to the 117th Space Battalion.

"We are deeply saddened by death of this fine officer," said Lt. Gen. Richard P. Formica, commanding general, U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command. "My wife Diane and I offer our sincerest condolences to the families and Soldiers, civilians and contractors who worked with Lt. Cornejo. I'm saddened by this terrible tragedy - but I'm proud of this 'great' brigade, its leaders and its Soldiers. We watched as the brigade Soldiers and leaders rallied to care for the family and to look after one another during this very difficult time. We watched the caring leadership of the brigade commander and command sergeant major, and others. As leaders and responsible employees of the entire command and the Army, we will continue to focus on taking care of people - serving our Soldiers, civilians and their families."

During the memorial, her brigade commander gave her equal praise.

"I will always remember her as an officer short in stature, but huge in heart, drive and attitude. She had a bright future ahead of her, nearly as bright as that smile that lit up the room every time she walked in," remarked Col. Gregory Bowen, commander, 100th Missile Defense Brigade. "To Christina's family and loved ones: Be proud she was an amazing woman who was a role model to those around her she was respected and admired by everyone she worked with including me. If there were more Christina Cornejos in the Army it would be a better Army."

Her death was ruled a homicide and details are under investigation by the Colorado Springs

Police department. The Colorado National Guard will provide any assistance needed to the Colorado Springs Police Department.