Edward Balli - U.S. Military

Chief Warrant Officer Edward Balli, age 42, of Monterey, California, died on January 20, 2014, in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, of wounds from small arms fire when he was attacked by insurgents.

Edward was assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Troop, 2nd Cavalry Regiment, U.S. Army Europe, Vilseck, Germany.

He was known as Eddie to his family and friends. 

This was his third tour of duty in Afghanistan.  He had served two tours in Iraq.

Edward was raised in Salinas and attended North Salinas High School.  He joined the Army in 1991, right after graduation.  

He was promoted to staff sergeant, then transferred to officer status, eventually

Light a candle for Eddie.  Light
his way to Heaven.

achieving the rank of chief warrant officer 2. In a previous tour in Afghanistan he had been awarded the Bronze Star. 

Family members stated that Eddie's greatest concern was for the well-being of the soldiers who worked with him. He never complained and went about his business quietly. He is a hero to his family.

He enjoyed fishing and was a fan of the Philadelphia Eagles football team. 

He planned to retire to Hawaii in 4 years. 

Edward is survived by many loving friends and relatives including his mother; his brother and two sisters; his wife, Kristy; and 3 adopted children from a previous marriage.

Thank you for serving, Eddie. 

Pray without ceasing unto God for an end to this war in Afghanistan. It is enough. We are sick with grief for men like Edward.

Pray that Edward is in heaven. Pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.