SALEM — Oregon Army National Guard Col. Christopher Reese retired after nearly 23 years of military service in a ceremony, March 3, 2018, at the Anderson Readiness Center in Salem.

Rees most recently served as the Strategic Plans Officer (G-5) for the Oregon Army National Guard (Land Component Command), assisting with planning operations and training for more than 6,000 soldiers. Prior to his most recent assignment, he commanded the Recruiting and Retention Command for three and a half years.

He graduated from Hermiston High School in 1991 and earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Western Oregon State College in 1995. He also holds a Master of Public Administration degree from Murray State University.

Rees began his military career as a U.S. Army ROTC cadet through Oregon State University in 1992 and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in aviation in 1995.

His awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Army Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal with three oak leaf clusters, and an Air Medal. He was also awarded the Combat Action Badge, the Senior Aviator Badge, the Army Basic Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge, and the Recruiter’s Badge.

He is a member of NGAUS, AUSA, COMOAA, the American Legion, and the Cavalry and Armor Association.

Reese is married to Lori Reese of Oregon City. They reside in Albany with their three children, Zachary (15), Noah (12), and Elijah (7).