about austin
Austin Douglas Shilling was born on August 20th, 1990 in Williamsport, Pennsylvania. He lived for four years in the suburbs of Pittsburgh where he went to kindergarten. He then spent the majority of his childhood in Fredericksburg, VA - but he never lost his love for the Steel City.
Following his graduation from Massaponax High School in 2009, this love brought him “home” where he attended The University of Pittsburgh. He studied computer science and joined Air Force ROTC. After a change in direction and career paths following his sophomore year at Pitt, Austin transferred to Appalachian State University (after a lovely introduction to the school from his sister) where he studied History and Military Science. It is here that he began his career in the Army, through his work in ROTC and the North Carolina National Guard. He graduated from App State in 2014 and was commissioned as an officer in the U.S. Army.
After a short stint at Fort Benning in Columbus, GA completing Armor Basic Officer Leaders Course (ABOLC), Austin headed off to Fort Polk, LA. Soon after, he deployed to Afghanistan for nine months in support of Operation Resolute Support (ORS), 3rd Squadron, 89th Cavalry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division. While there, he started as the Platoon Signal Officer and quickly moved up to the position of Alpha Troop, Platoon Leader. He served as the Officer in Charge (OIC) for over 20 of America’s finest Soldiers. This is also where Austin earned his Bronze Star.
1LT Shilling’s awards and decorations include The Bronze Star Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and National Defense Service Medal.
“Austin was our troop’s strongest platoon leader and was slotted to be promoted in position to serve as my second-in-command at the start of February. I have nothing but praise for your son. I took command of this unit in August and I continually relied on his superb performance.
Simply put, he outclassed his peers at everything. Austin planned the most proficient small arms ranges, articulated and implemented military tactics at a higher level than any junior officer I’ve ever observed in the squadron, and he was a sought-after advisor to many of his peers.
The unit mourns his loss and the nation did in my estimate, truly lose a hero.”