A graduate of Hancock High School, enlisted in the US ARMY at the age of 19 in July 2003, reporting to Fort Leonard Wood, MO for Basic Training.

She received advanced training as a Cryptologist and was assigned to the 501st Special Troops Battalion,101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, KY. The unit deployed in September 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom where on March 16th, 2006 she was KIA during a mortar attack on her compound in Tikrit, Iraq. She is the first female cryptologist to be honored by the National Security Agency where her name is engraved on their Cryptologic Memorial that honors and remembers those who gave their lives, "serving in silence," in the line of duty. This Wall of Honor speaks to the crucial role that cryptology plays in keeping the United States secure and of the courage of these individuals to carry out their mission regardless of the cost.

Sergeant Amanda Pinson received the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, G.W.O.T.S.M., Iraq Campaign Medal and the Knowlton Award.

As a recipient of the prestigious Knowlton Award, Sergeant Pinson’s name was also added to the Wall of Honor in the Cove of Remembrance, at the U.S. Army Intelligence Center, Ft Huachuca, AZ, in December, 2008. The Knowlton Award recognizes individuals who have contributed significantly to Army Intelligence and who also demonstrate the highest standards of integrity and moral character, display an outstanding degree of professional competence, and serve the Military Intelligence Corps with distinction.

As further tribute to her service, patriotism and professionalism, The Amanda N. Pinson Training Support Center was built in her honor at Fort Leonard Wood, MO and dedicated July 26, 2012. A plaque removed from Pinson Hall, FOB Speicher, Tikrit, Iraq, was delivered to Sergeant Pinson’s mother, Christina Andrews, upon closure of the base following troop withdrawals.