Cryptologic Technician Technical Chief Christian M. Pike. Christian was a man whose life was defined by duty, honor, and unwavering dedication to his country and his fellow service members. Chief Pike was born in Berlin, Germany in 1981 to a family with a deep legacy of military service. His grandfather Henry saw fierce combat in World War II as a Naval aviator and his mother Diana served as an Army Cryptologist for over a decade. Diana’s military service instilled in Christian a profound sense of duty and commitment to his nation.
In 2001, he chose to follow in her footsteps by enlisting in the United States Navy, where he initially served as an electronic warfare technician. The Navy later redesignated this field as Cryptological Technician Technical. He deployed on several deployments to the Western Pacific on the USS Cleveland, an amphibious transport dock before taking orders to Naval Information Operations Command San Diego in 2007. He volunteered for more combat deployments, this time in support of the Marine Corps in the Al Anbar Province of Iraq. Chief Pike had a rare combination of traits that made him ideally suited for tactical SIGINT operations. He was an expert in his field, as well as a physical fit and tough sailor who thrived in expeditionary combat environments.
Chief Pike’s success with the Marines inspired him to seek other challenges, and he volunteered for assignment with Naval Special Warfare. In March 2012, he deployed to the Maiwand district of Afghanistan with SEAL Team FIVE, in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Chief Pike was an invaluable member of his SEAL platoon. He diligently intercepted Taliban communications to alert his teammates of enemy activity and impending attacks.
On March 10th, 2013, his SEAL platoon patrolled the Maiwand district when he detected indications of a large Taliban ambush. He alerted his leadership and prepared his teammates to repel a Taliban ambush. The odds were stacked against his men. They were sadly outnumbered and the Taliban were fighting in familiar terrain. Chief Pike used his cryptologic skills to provide critical intelligence on real-time enemy movements and actions. He also fought fiercely to defend his brothers against overwhelming odds.
Chief Pike’s commitment to his mission and his comrades never wavered. He provided advance warning of the enemy’s approach, and despite the dire circumstances, he fought valiantly to defend his teammates. Tragically, Christian was seriously wounded in the ensuing battle, and he passed away days later. His sacrifice and unwavering dedication to his duty serve as a testament to his character.
Christian Pike embodied the best of our nation’s military tradition. He carried forward the legacy of his family’s service with honor, and he brought immeasurable joy and happiness to those who knew him. His mother, Diana, spoke of the pride she felt in her son’s chosen path and his unwavering happiness in his service. Christian loved his job, his Navy, and his teammates with all his heart.
Today, we remember Christian Pike not just for the circumstances of his passing, but for the life he lived and the principles he held dear. He was a Navy chief petty officer, a loving son, a devoted friend, and a selfless patriot. His mother spoke of him as beautiful, compassionate, honorable, and happy, and we all had the privilege of witnessing those qualities in him.
Christian’s service and sacrifice have not gone unnoticed. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star with Valor, a fitting recognition of his bravery and dedication. He joins the ranks of the brave men and women who have given their all in service to our great nation.
As we bid farewell to Christian M. Pike, let us remember the profound impact he had on those around him and the legacy of service he leaves behind. May his memory inspire us all to live our lives with the same sense of duty, honor, and joy that he exemplified.
Rest in peace, Chief Pike, your sacrifice will never be forgotten, and your spirit will continue to guide and inspire us all.
Pike Hero Workout
Pike
5 rounds for time of:
75-lb. thrusters, 20 reps
10 strict ring dips
20 push-ups
10 strict handstand push-ups
50-meter bear crawl
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