Brian K. Van Dusen

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Columbus, OH

Branch of Service: U.S. Army

Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 3

Brian Van Dusen enlisted with the Army National Guard before going active duty. He later flew UH-60 Blackhawks during Operation Provide Comfort. In 1996, he became a Medivac pilot with the 57th, then the 571st in 2000. Deferring his orders to Germany, he requested deployment to Iraq with the 571st. He was two and a half years from retirement when he died in a helicopter crash in Iraq.

Brian lived life to the fullest. He had many interests and hobbies, which he never missed an opportunity to share with his family and friends. He was a friend to everyone he met, sharing his sense of humor that could always lighten the mood. Brian was always calm and dependable under pressure and found the positive in every situation.

Brian Van Dusen loved his family and friends very deeply. He frequently reminded them, “You can sleep when you die.” Brian wanted to make sure we never miss any opportunity to live and love to the fullest.

Age: 39

Date of Death: May 09, 2003