OUR CO-WORKER BRANDON STOUT

Earlier this year we lost one of our co-workers in Iraq. Brandon Stout was an amazing young man who was proud to serve his country both here at home and over in Iraq. I was pleased tonight when President Bush mentioned Brandon, his wife Audrey and their family in his Presidential Address...
The President also mentioned the sacrifice one West Michigan Family has made losing their son, “Earlier this year I received an e-mail from the family of Army Specialist Brandon Stout of Michigan. Brandon volunteered for the National Guard. He was killed while serving in Baghdad. His family has suffered greatly, yet in their sorrow they see larger purpose. His wife Audrey says that Brandon felt called to serve and knew what he was fighting for. And his parents Tracey and Jeff wrote me this:” “We believe this is a war of good and evil and we must win even if it cost the life of our own son, freedom is not free.” The President went on to say, “This country is blessed to have Americans like Brandon Stout, who make extraordinary sacrifices to keep us safe from harm. They are doing so in a fight that is just and right, and necessary. And now it falls to us to finish the work they have begun. Some say the gains we are making in Iraq come too late, they are mistaken. It is never too late to deal a blow to Al-Qeda. It is never too late to advance freedom. And it is never too late to support our troops in a fight they can win. Good night and God Bless America.”