Master Sergeant Joshua L. Wheeler was a highly decorated U.S. Army soldier who made the ultimate sacrifice during a daring raid in Iraq in October 2015. A member of the elite Delta Force, Wheeler was the first American service member killed in combat in Iraq since U.S. operations resumed in 2014. He was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, Purple Heart, and multiple Bronze Stars for valor and heroism.
From Humble Beginnings to Heroic Service
Born and raised in eastern Oklahoma, Wheeler grew up in a rural, economically challenged region near the Arkansas border. His childhood shaped him into a resilient, driven young man. According to his uncle, Jack Shamblin, “In that area, if you didn’t go to college, you basically had a choice of the oil fields or the military. The Army really suited him; he always had such robust energy and he always wanted to help people.”
What began as a path out of a limited future turned into a remarkable military career. Wheeler found purpose and pride in service—eventually rising through the ranks from Army Ranger to becoming one of the nation’s most skilled and experienced special operations soldiers.
Elite Career in Special Operations
Wheeler enlisted in the U.S. Army in 1995. By 1997, he had joined the 75th Ranger Regiment, a premier light infantry unit specializing in direct action and airfield seizures.
In 2004, his exceptional performance earned him selection to the U.S. Army Special Operations Command at Fort Bragg, home to the 1st Special Forces Operational Detachment-Delta—commonly known as Delta Force. This elite counterterrorism unit conducts the most dangerous and classified missions in the U.S. military.
Throughout his career, Wheeler underwent rigorous training in parachuting, explosives, mountaineering, small unit tactics, and close-quarters combat. He completed an astonishing 14 combat deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.
The Mission in Hawija: A Hero’s Final Act
On October 22, 2015, a joint U.S.-Kurdish operation targeted an ISIS-run prison near the town of Hawija, Iraq. Intelligence suggested that approximately 70 hostages—including members of the Iraqi Security Forces—were facing imminent execution and burial in a nearby mass grave.
Although U.S. troops were initially tasked to advise and assist, the mission quickly escalated when Kurdish Peshmerga forces became pinned down outside the compound. Without hesitation, Master Sergeant Wheeler moved toward the frontlines.
“He ran to the sound of the guns,” said then-Defense Secretary Ashton B. Carter. “I’m immensely proud of this young man.”
Wheeler and another Delta operator breached the outer wall with explosives and led the charge. As expected, enemy fire immediately concentrated on the opening. In the chaos, Wheeler was fatally struck by small-arms fire. Despite the loss, the mission succeeded—over 70 hostages were rescued, several ISIS militants were captured, and around 20 enemy combatants were killed.
A Legacy of Valor and Dedication
Master Sergeant Wheeler’s actions that day epitomized the warrior ethos. He knowingly entered the line of fire to protect his teammates and rescue innocent lives. For his heroism, he was posthumously awarded the Silver Star, Purple Heart, and multiple other honors.
His career decorations include:
- 4 Bronze Stars with “V” device for valor
- 7 additional Bronze Stars for meritorious service
- Combat Infantry Badge, Parachutist Badge, and more
Wheeler was laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, in Section 60, Grave 10348—a place reserved for America’s most honored heroes.
Final Thoughts
Master Sergeant Joshua Wheeler was more than just a soldier—he was a father, a husband, a teammate, and a patriot. His courage and selflessness continue to inspire the special operations community and Americans everywhere. He lived and died by the warrior creed: “I will never leave a fallen comrade.”
We honor his legacy and extend our deepest gratitude to his family and loved ones. His sacrifice will never be forgotten.
Respect and Honor 🙏🏾💐