Bryan enlisted in 2003, deployed to Iraq twice in 2005 and 2008, deployed once to Afghanistan in 2010 with the 101st Airborne, 2nd Battalion, 327th Infantry, Task Force “No Slack.” Bryan was known for his ability to lead by example. He was the epitome of the strong, silent type of leader.

Bryan’s final mission, Operation Strong Eagle III, was captured on film by ABC News Correspondent, Mike Boettcher. The footage was made into the film “The Hornet’s Nest.”