Toppen, Aaron Scott
Aaron Scott Toppen, a 19-year-old from Mokena, IL, served in the U.S. Army and was killed in action on June 9, 2014, in Gaza Village, Afghanistan.
Their Story
Private First Class Aaron Scott Toppen was born and raised in Mokena, Illinois. After enlisting in the United States Army, he was assigned to Company D, 2nd Battalion, 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado.
PFC Toppen deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom, a mission initiated in October 2001 to dismantle terrorist networks. During his service, he was involved in various operations aimed at stabilizing regions affected by conflict.
On June 9, 2014, while on duty in Gaza Village, Afghanistan, Aaron Toppen's life was tragically cut short. The U.S. Army reported the cause of his death as hostile action, reflecting the ongoing risks faced by service members in the region at that time.
Aaron’s death occurred during the final phases of Operation Enduring Freedom, which officially concluded in December 2014. His passing marked a profound loss for his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.
The sacrifice of PFC Toppen is remembered with deep respect and solemnity, as is the grief of those who knew him. His story is a testament to the personal cost of military service.
Explore Further
Operation Enduring Freedom, in which Aaron Scott Toppen served, concluded in December 2014. See the full roster of those killed in this conflict.
Among those documented in the same conflict: Losano, Raymond, Andrews, Evander Earl, Edmunds, Jonn Joseph, Stonesifer, Kristofor Tif.
