My name is Andrew Kilgore. I am a junior at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio. The Hero on my bracelet is Sgt. Bradley J. Harper, KIA Iraq, August 3, 2005.

I indirectly knew Brad through his dad teaching at my middle school and his family attending my church. I knew who he was, but never had direct contact with him outside of a handshake and hello on Sunday mornings. I knew that he was in Marine Force Reserve and that he was living in Virgina Beach as a police officer. I also knew when Brad was deployed due to prayer requests for his safety at church.

The day I heard that Brad had died I remember vividly. My mother received a phone call with the news. It really brought the war home to me, then a senior in high school to be. Brad’s funeral and calling hours is something that I will never forget. I learned in those days what real commitment and sacrifice mean. I became more aware of the freedoms that I take for granted on a daily basis. Brad’s death really put in perspective what makes a real hero, and allowed me to see and example that I should emulate.

The military has always interested me. After Brad’s death, I realized that I have a duty to fulfill for my country. Through his inspiration I am in the process of applying to Officer Canidate School for the United States Marine Corps. I can only hope to serve my country with the same honor, courage, and commitment as did Brad.

I wear a HeroTag everyday bearing Brad’s name to remind me of his sacrifice. When I need inspiration, I look at it and know that I am able to enjoy freedoms daily because of Brad and other like them that have made the ultimate sacrifice.

-Andrew Kilgore