33, of Hummelstown, Pennsylvania.
Willard died when two CH-53 helicopters crashed into the Gulf of Aden in the vicinity of Ras Siyyan, northern Djibouti, while flying a training mission in the Godoria Range area. He was deployed to Djibouti as part of the Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa. He was assigned to Marine Heavy Helicopter Squadron 464, Marine Air Group 29, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing, II Marine Expeditionary Force, New River, North Carolina. Died on February 17, 2006.
Please send information, photos, and corrections for Marine Capt. Bryan D. Willard.
Leave a message in memory of this servicemember, and/or to the loved ones left behind.
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"I leave this message out of respect because I have family that is in the service. A brother that almost lost his life, but never his dignity. Now a son that serves in his stead. Also in respect for Nicolette Easterling who is a friend and served with Bryan. Peace be with you to the Willard family and God Bless for everything you stand for."
Lisa Philpot of Edgewood, Md
"This message, I feel, is long overdue. Capt. Willard was an outstanding officer. He was at HMT-302 the same time I was. He always treated the enlisted Marines with respect. He was a joy to serve with and we always knew he was good for a laugh. He was a Marine we always knew we could count on. Thank you, sir...your presence is missed..."
Nicolette Easterling of King Geroge, VA
"September 30, 2007
To the family of Capt. Bryan D. Willard:
Bryan gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV
"To the family of:Bryan D. Willard I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015. Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga"
"Capt. Willard,
Sir, I would like to say thank you to you and the other service personnel who were killed in that crash for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
Semper Fi Devil Dog!"
"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness,
and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief.
Our nations HERO, Bryan will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge / Montana
May we always remember: FREEDOM ISN'T FREE! "
"Thank you Bryan Willard, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios
"To the family and friends of Capt. Bryan Willard:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Bryan for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada
"To the family and friends of Capt. Bryan Willard:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Bryan, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia