HOCKING, BRANDON

Brandon Hocking was born on April 03, 1986 and attended Federal Way and Decatur High School in Federal Way, Washington. Growing up Brandon enjoyed fixing old cars, sketching, and playing guitars.  

SGT Hocking enlisted in the United States Army in November 2005 and was a small-arms repair specialist. He was assigned to the 87th Combat Sustainment Support Battalion, 3rd Sustainment Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Stewart GA. 

The summer before he died, SGT Hocking told a military writer how much he enjoyed his job at a base in southern Iraq where he fixed weapons for the Army. "My favorite part about this job is learning different weapons systems,” Hocking said in an Army public affairs report. “There’s always something new to learn so I can be better at my job.”  At the time, he was also helping put together a team that could travel and repair weapons. Furthermore, during his combat deployments, he as a convoy gunner.  

SGT Hocking was killed by an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) on 21 March 2011, after his unit came under attack in Samarra, Iraq. He was on his second deployment to Iraq and had been scheduled to return home 10 days later. He was buried on what would have been his 25th birthday.  

SGT Hocking held the rank of corporal when he was killed, but was posthumously promoted to sergeant. He was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. 

Havalah Hocking 30 March 2011 Ft. Stewart, GA: Brandon was a great Soldier and Father to 4 beautiful children who thought he was Superman, or Boywonder. As his wife I know the world lost a wonderful soul when he perished from this life. I send my love and prayers out to his mom, dad, and sisters, but mostly my heart bleeds for Gwenivere, Sebastian, Odian, and Morganna as they will no longer be able to receive hugs and kisses from such a fabulous person. We will miss you always Brandon, and God speed into the Afterlife. Love always your wife Havalah and kids Ganna, Odie, Bookie, and Gwenie 

Survivors include parents, Christine Dansereau and Kevin Hocking, wife, Havalah Hocking, a son and a daughter. He is also survived by his stepfather, sisters, grandparents, and a large extended family. 

The Final Salute 

"Brothers in Arms", Military men and women down through the centuries, have traditionally exchanged "Hand Salutes" as a sign of recognition and as a way to render courtesy and respect one to another. 

 

This "Hand Salute" is the last that we shall render to our Brother-in-Arms, Sgt. Brandon S. Hocking. To his family it symbolizes the love and respect that we have for Brandon. And to Brandon it is rendered as a symbol of honor and gratitude to thank him for the ultimate sacrifice he made for his country while deployed with the U.S. Army in Iraq. No greater love is shown than a man lay down his life for another. Brandon, you are a brave American Warrior, a true Patriot and a national Hero. With your passing, our Country has lost a National Treasure. We bid you a sad farewell. You will be dearly missed from among our ranks. Be at ease. Rest in Peace. 

On behalf of the 1, 341 members of Lowe-McFarlane Post 14 of the American Legion in Shreveport, Louisiana, I extend our sympathies and our condolences to Brandon's family and loved ones. 

The Washington State Fallen Heroes Project proudly remembers SGT Brandon Hocking for his service, sacrifice, and commitment to our nation. Our hope is that his life continues to inspire all who learn his story.