Brian Scott Freeman

West Point, 1999

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by MAJ Michael Emons on January 25, 2007:

It was a terrible day on Saturday for all of us here in Iraq. As I heard updates of the days events, my heart sank as I heard that a fellow CA soldier, a fellow West Pointer, a good friend, a loving husband and father, and just a wonderful man had been taken from us. I met Brian on that first day of our mobilization last January and I was immediately drawn to his quiet yet strong demeanor, his candid view on our collective situation, and his ability to put aside his homesickness in order to do his best. Charlotte, I could often hear Brian talking to you and Gunnar (in that special Gunnar voice) in the barracks at Fort Bragg; he loved you all more than I thought was possible. We spent hours talking at the foot of our bunks about life, and in my last email to him I told him how much I looked forward to catching up with him back at Bragg and again in San Diego. Eleven of us formed a bond that became a brotherhood, and Brian was an integral part of what made it special. While I waited on the runway to fly over to Iraq a few short days before most of the others, it was Brian who called me asking if he could come down and see me off. He went out of his way to make sure I got that last handshake, that last word of encouragement, and that last hug during the stressful, lonely time before I left for combat. I will forever remember that as one of the kindest, heartfelt jestures of my life. For those of us lucky enough to have known him, he will always be remembered for how much he loved his family, how he could crack a joke, and his strong beliefs. Charlotte, Gunnar, and Ingrid, you will always have a place to turn in a time of need. The other members of what we came to call "The Dirty Dozen", and I, will be there for you, and for Brian, always. Please accept my sincere condolences, please lean on us anytime, and know that we are all so deeply hurt and saddened by your loss. MAJ Michael Emons

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