BRADSHAW, BRIAN

Brian N. Bradshaw was born on 08 October 1984 at Madigan Army Medical Center at Joint Base Lewis-McChord Washington, to Paul and Mary Bradshaw who were both military members. Brian was a graduate of Visitation Catholic School and Bellarmine Prep High School, in Tacoma WA. During high school he served as a member of the Pierce County Search and Rescue, he was the set designer and manager for Bellarmine's plays, winning the Washington High School Academy Award for Best Set, and was a counselor during summers at Camp Don Bosco, a Catholic Youth Organization camp in Carnation, where he had once been a camper himself.  

After graduating high school, Brian attended Pacific Lutheran University where he was a member of the ROTC program. While in college, he completed Airborne School and the Winter Phase of Army Mountaineering School. He was commissioned 2nd LT upon graduation with a degree in Political Science in 2007. He completed Officer Infantry training before attending and earning his Ranger tab. Upon completion of training, he was assigned to 1st Battalion, 501st Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Airborne Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division, at Fort Richardson Alaska as a Platoon leader which he truly enjoyed. 8 months after his arrival, he was deployed to Afghanistan. 

1LT Bradshaw didn't go to win a war – he went to try and help the people there to have a better life. While on deployment, he would talk with his father about his fear for the safety of all his men – not himself. He would be tired but always upbeat and was especially happy when he received packages from home. In the packages, he had asked for items to give away to the local children. While on patrol, Brian and his men would take crayons, colored pencils, books and toys to give away to the kids. 

 1LT Bradshaw died on 25 June 2009 as the result of an Improvised Explosive Device while running to help the injured Soldiers in his convoy. He was just three months into his deployment to Kheyl, Afghanistan. He was 24 years old.  

1LT Bradshaw is survived by his mother, Mary, Father, Paul and his brother, Robert. 

He loved skiing and took back country CAT tours he had started taking helicopters considering possibly becoming a guide for back country skiing. Brian was very athletic and action-oriented. He bicycled, did back country skiing and climbed mountains. But most of all, Brian was a kind, caring person with a great sense of humor. He was an inspiration to his friends, family and the men with whom he served. 

After his death, 1LT Bradshaw was nominated and inducted into the ROTC Hall of Fame. 

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers 1LT Brian Bradshaw for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. His life continues to inspire all who learn his story.