After decades in the Army, Chris Carlile still finds ways to serve. Whether he is helping a veteran apply for benefits, sharing the history of Army aviation or encouraging someone to try farming, the Enterprise resident keeps fellow service members at the heart of his work.
U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville (R-Auburn) has recognized retired Army Col. Christopher “Chris” Carlile as his October Veteran of the Month.
“Transitioning from military to civilian life can be difficult for many of our veterans. For U.S. Army Colonel Chris Carlile of Enterprise, he’s combined many of his passions and experiences to make this transition easier for Alabama’s heroes,” Tuberville said.
A sixth-generation Army veteran, Carlile spent more than 36 years serving around the world, Tuberville shared in a video. His assignments included serving as a nuclear strike adviser to President George W. Bush, a responsibility that entrusted him with carrying the nuclear football. He also oversaw thousands of soldiers on missions throughout his Army career, Tuberville said.
When his military service ended, Carlile and his wife, Sandra, returned to the Wiregrass, where they had met while he was a young pilot in training.
Carlile remembered the help he received as he adjusted to civilian life and wanted to offer that same support to others.
“When I retired, I was lucky enough to have some folks see after me and help me navigate the waters. At the same time, how do you help those that come after you do the same thing?” Carlile said.
He now helps veterans apply for their benefits as a veterans service officer with Disabled American Vets, Post 9, according to Tuberville.
His years in Army aviation also continue to shape his work. As chairman of the Army Aviation Museum Foundation’s executive committee, Carlile helps tell the story of Fort Rucker’s role in Army aviation to more than 100,000 visitors each year.
Through Friends of Army Aviation, he has coordinated air shows around the country, funeral honor flights, community service displays and rides in the group’s Huey helicopters. The organization also participated in the Army’s 250th Birthday parade in Washington, D.C.
Carlile’s service extends to the farm, too. A Harvard-educated cattleman and member of the Coffee County Cattlemen’s Association, he mentors veterans who want to move from military service into agriculture.
For Carlile, those interests share a common purpose: staying connected to the people who serve.
As he put it, “it all ties back to a soldier, sailor, airman, or marine.”
Tuberville said Carlile’s contributions reach both the military and the agricultural community.
“We have a lot to thank Chris for when it comes to our military security and our national food security. It’s my honor to recognize him as the October ‘Veteran of the Month.’”
Alabamians can nominate a veteran for Tuberville’s 2026 Veteran of the Month series by emailing [email protected].
Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
