WINDOW ROCK — Members of the Navajo Nation Council are calling for an investigation into the death of U.S. Army Private Carlton L. Chee, that occurred after he collapsed during a training exercise at the Fort Hood Army post in Texas.
Private Chee, of Pine Hill, New Mexico, was 25-years-old.
“Our hearts are heavy today with the news of Private Carlton Chee’s passing,” said Navajo Nation Council Delegate Jamie Henio. “Our young Navajos continue to serve at the highest rates per capita in the country, and when we lose just one of our honorable warriors, the entire Nation feels that pain.”
Chee was a member of the Navajo Nation and a 2015 graduate of Pine Hill High School. He was noted by school officials for his participation in football, basketball, and track and field throughout his high school career.
Council Delegate Daniel E. Tso, chairman of the Health, Education, and Human Services Committee, said, “The Navajo Nation Council honors Private Chee for his desire to serve and protect his fellow countrymen and his country. We pray for the Chee family and extended relatives. May we all join in prayer for all our servicemen and women.”
Chee was assigned in July to the 2nd Battalion, 12th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division. He entered the Army in February as a tank crewman.
The Associated Press reported that Pvt. Chee’s death is one of 28 to occur at the Fort Hood U.S. Army post this year. The Army has stated it will launch an overall investigation into the management of the post, along with a more detailed investigation into previous cases.
Chee’s awards include the National Defense Service Medal and the Army Service Ribbon.