National Security Agency / Central Security Service - Top Banner

NATIONAL SECURITY AGENCY
CENTRAL SECURITY SERVICE

FORT GEORGE G. MEADE, MARYLAND 20755-6000

NSA PRESS RELEASE
29 May 2007
For further information contact:
NSA Public and Media Affairs, 301-688-6524

NSA/CSS Memorial Day Observance Honors Cryptologic Heroes, Past and Present

On 29 May 2007, LTG Keith B. Alexander, USA, Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service, paid special tribute to SSG Kyu H. Chay, USA, at the Agency's annual Memorial Day Observance. The service was attended by family, friends, and distinguished guests.

SSG Chay was a cryptologic linguist serving in the United States Army in the 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). He perished in October 2006 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his Humvee in southern Afghanistan.

The ceremony included a traditional wreath laying and the unveiling of the name "SSG Kyu H. Chay" on the NSA/CSS Cryptologic Memorial Wall. The wall, dedicated in 1996, lists the names of 156 Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine, and civilian cryptologists who have made the ultimate sacrifice, "serving in silence," in the performance of their duties since World War II.

Additional information on the Memorial Wall and a special historical monograph highlighting SSG Chay's life, service, and sacrifice can be viewed via the NSA/CSS web site at /about/cryptologic_heritage/memorial_wall/index.shtml.

NOTE: Media outlets interested in receiving photographs from the ceremony or additional information should contact the NSA Public and Media Affairs Office at the number above.