Chris Tilghman was born on December 2, 1959, in Auckland, New Zealand, and grew up in Kalaheo, Hawaii. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy on November 1, 1978, and went on active duty to attend basic training on January 19, 1979. Seaman Recruit Tilghman completed basic training at NTC San Diego, California, in March 1979, and then attended Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Fuel Handler) "A" School at NAATC Lakehurst, New Jersey, from March to May 1979. His first assignment was as a fuel handler at NAS Sigonella, Italy, from May 1979 to January 1982, followed by service as a fuel handler aboard the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga (CV-60) from January 1982 until he left active duty on January 18, 1983. Petty Officer Tilghman reenlisted in the U.S. Navy on April 4, 1983, and served as a fuel handler at NAS Cubi Point, Philippines, from April 1983 to June 1985, and then at Naval Support Activity Souda Bay, Crete, Greece, from June 1985 to June 1987. Petty Officer Tilghman attended Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL Training with BUD/S Class 147 at Naval Amphibious Base Coronado, California, from June 1987 to January 1988, and after completing Parachutist Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and SEAL Qualification Training at Naval Amphibious Base Little Creek, Virginia, he was assigned to SEAL Team FOUR in February 1988. He deployed with SEAL Team FOUR in support of Operation Just Cause in Panama in December 1989, and was killed in action on December 20, 1989. He was buried at Tabernacle Methodist Church Cemetery in Townsville, North Carolina.

The Sailor's Creed:

I am a United States Sailor.

I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States of America and I will obey the orders of those appointed over me.

I represent the fighting spirit of the Navy and those who have gone before me to defend freedom and democracy around the world.

I proudly serve my country's Navy combat team with Honor, Courage and Commitment.

I am committed to excellence and the fair treatment of all.