Before entering the Navy, Christopher worked at the Langley AFB Commissary, VA during high school and while attending college.

Chris joined the Navy in 1999. He served as an Optical Technician at the Naval Medical Center San Diego, California for 3 years and was in training for Laboratory Technician at the Naval School of Health Sciences San Diego at the time of his death.  He was a faithful and devoted Sailor.  Being in the Navy inspired Chris to become confident, strong, and disciplined.     

Chris enjoyed music, singing, competitive running at PT, going on trips and spending time with his friends.  His military family and friends helped him fulfill his purpose in life.  When Chris came home, family time was important to him.  He enjoyed family gatherings and all the attention he received.

Chris was a loving and kind person with a cheerful disposition.  Chris was loved by everyone who knew him.   His smile and laughter were contagious.

 Chris was 24 years old when he died but his life was “a life well lived.”

Christopher was and always will be a Blessing to our family. We will love and remember him in our hearts forever.

 Mom, Dad, Clarence Jr, & Lisa

Commander Brian Bourgeois was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana. He was a 1997 graduate of James E. Taylor High School in Katy, Texas. As a proud Cajun and avid outdoorsman, he grew up hunting and fishing. He was a stand-out athlete on the football and baseball teams. His desire to serve, passion to lead, and determination drove his appointment to the United States Naval Academy. While at USNA, Brian was a four year member of the varsity football team where he left an undeniable legacy of friendship, perseverance, and commitment.

Upon graduation and commissioning in 2001, Brian was selected as a Surface Warfare Officer. After 3 years, he attended BUD/s and graduated with class 253. He went on to earn his master's degree in Defense Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School and received the Pat Tillman Leadership Award for his class.

Commander Bourgeois was the special combination of grit and determination coupled with an easy going personality. A leader of action, "Booj" showed care and concern for those with whom he served and was present to listen and provide help when needed. He had a mindset of service to others and engaged meaningfully within the community. 

Nothing brought Brian more pride and joy than his wife, children and dogs. He remained a constant source of love and strength in their lives and was determined to be a regular presence despite the high operational tempo of his profession. Brian and Megan recently celebrated 20 years of marriage, and she was the love of his life. Brian was immensely proud of his wife and five children and never missed an opportunity to talk about them.

Brian’s many awards and decorations over the past two decades included a Bronze Star with valor. .

Brian is loved and missed by many. 

Ian attended RPI where he was an NROTC candidate with aspirations of becoming a Marine Officer. After graduating with honors, earning a double major in computer science and engineering and a minor in artificial intelligence, he was commissioned as a 2nd Lt in the United States Marine Corps on May 18, 2007.  As an active-duty Marine, Ian was an Engineer Officer assigned to the 2nd Combat Engineer Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, Camp LeJeune, N.C. Ian was assigned as the 1st Combat Engineer platoon leader for the ABV, Assault Breacher Vehicle. His personal awards include the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the National Defense Service Medal.  Ian was a lifelong athlete who enjoyed football, lacrosse, rugby, and wrestling.  He was an avid public servant who felt called to serve our country after 9/11, by joining the Marine Corps in order to help others.

Honoring 2nd class petty officer Zachary Soussa, just an outstanding Sailor in the United States Navy. An all-around great person. He lights up a room when he enters it. He was taken from us way too young and way too soon.