Staff Sergeant Tatiana Khaghani Dees, A Soldier's Story
.png "Staff Sergeant Tatiana Khaghai Dees – Gulf War Military Police")
Staff Sergeant Tatiana Khaghani Dees, A Soldier's Story
Tatiana Khaghai Dees was born on July 25, 1956, in Tehran. As a child, she immigrated to the United States with her family, growing up between cultures and building a life rooted in service and responsibility.
She attended Nyack High School and later Rockland Community College, where she earned an associate degree in criminal justice. Her academic focus reflected an early interest in law, order, and public service.
In 1980, Dees enlisted in the United States Army and was assigned to the 92nd Military Police Battalion. She was stationed in Germany, serving during a period marked by Cold War tensions and increasing global instability.
In December 1990, Staff Sergeant Dees deployed to Dammam in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm during the Gulf War. As a military police noncommissioned officer, her duties included base security, investigations, and the protection of personnel and installations.
On January 7, 1991, while investigating a report of a suspicious individual photographing U.S. military activity near a pier, Staff Sergeant Tatiana Khaghai Dees fell into the water while wearing full battle gear. Despite rescue efforts, she was unable to be saved and drowned in the line of duty.
Staff Sergeant Dees is buried at Novo-Diveevo Russian Orthodox Cemetery.
Her story reflects the often-unseen risks borne by service members far from combat headlines, routine vigilance, responsibility, and presence in dangerous environments. Staff Sergeant Tatiana Khaghai Dees served her adopted country with professionalism and resolve, and her sacrifice remains worthy of remembrance.
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About the Author
a.d. elliott is a wanderer, photographer, and storyteller traveling through life
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