Armenian American Army Specialist Carla Babayan Remembered
The daughter who became her father’s hero: Carla Jane Babayan
Army Specialist Carla Jane Babayan, an Armenian American from California, was honored in a memorial service at Camp Adder in Iraq on February 2, 2007, after giving her life in service. Born in La Cañada Flintridge to Armenian parents Edmond Babayan and Emmy Aprahamian, Babayan was known for her generosity, gentle spirit, and exceptional kindness. She initially pursued dance and mechanical drafting before working in her father's engineering firm. At 35, she enlisted in the Army Reserve in 2004, driven by a longtime dream of military service. Assigned to the 250th Transportation Company, she served with the 250th Transportation Company in Iraq, delivering vital supplies to combat forces. Standing 5 feet tall, she earned the nickname "Stuart Little" among fellow soldiers who praised her unwavering optimism, resilience, and ability to lift others' spirits even amid wartime hardships.
