FORT CARSON, Colo. — A retirement ceremony was held for Maj. Christopher B. Cordova, who served as the 4th Infantry Division senior physician and chief of clinical operations, at Manhart Field on Fort Carson May 27, 2020, with Family and several friends in attendance.
It was the first retirement ceremony held at Fort Carson since restrictions came about due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We don’t have anyone here virtually we’re doing this in person, which is good, because in today’s environment with COVID most of our ceremonies have been cancelled or we are going to a virtual event,” said Col. Thomas M. Feltey, the ceremony’s presiding officer and chief of staff, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson. “I really couldn’t think of a better way to celebrate (Maj. Cordova) today.”
During the event to honor his nearly 24-year career, Cordova acknowledged the many service members he has encountered over the years.
“The first group of folks I always consider near and dear to my heart every single day are fallen Soldiers,” Cordova said. “Unfortunately, I have known too many names of Soldiers who have lost their lives to protect our nation, but their sacrifices and their actions in the face of the most incredible dangers you could imagine has motivated me every single day of my life, since I’ve been in the Army, to do better.”
During the ceremony, Feltey also recognized Cordova’s commitment to the United States Army.
“Our life choices define who we are, and reflect the strength of our character,” Feltey said. “(Maj. Cordova) chose not just to serve in our nation’s military, but to become a member of our great health care team where he could commit himself to the care and treatment of our Soldiers on the front lines.”
During his career, Cordova’s dedication earned him the Silver Star while on deployment under Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 3rd Squadron, 61st Cavalry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 4th Inf. Div. during the Battle of Kamdesh, Oct. 3, 2009.
“He was the senior medical professional at Combat Outpost (COP) Keating during that battle in October 2009,” Feltey said. “On that morning about 400 hundred enemy fighters attacked at COP Keating, and under (Maj. Cordova’s) steady leadership and most extreme pressure he kept his team focused on providing lifesaving treatment for 43 (casualties) in one of the most difficult battles of the modern-day era … Simply put, over more than 24 years of military service (Maj. Cordova) has chosen to be at the greatest point of need, helping others”
Social Sharing