Brandon L. Stout dies of injuries from projectile I.E.D.

GRAND RAPIDS -- Audrey Stout could not wait for Sunday.

Her husband, 23-year-old Brandon Stout would be on leave from Iraq. But it was not to happen. Six days before his scheduled 15 day leave, Stout died in an attack just outside Baghdad.

Stout had been a member of the Michigan National Guard for the past five years. "He was driving an armored humvee when they hit an unusually large explosive device," said Warrant Officer Rhea Pruitt. "Two other Michigan Guard soldiers were also seriously hurt."

Stout grew up in Kent City and was active in high school choir and quiz bowl. He joined the Michigan National Guard while attending college in Lansing. It was an opportunity to earn money and train for a career in security services.

Stout was a devout member of West Leonard Christian Reformed Church in Grand Rapids. He and his wife, Audrey Hinken Stout, were youth leaders. Pastor Neil Jasperse says the two communicated frequently by e-mail.

"He never lost sight of the security risks in Baghdad. Shortly after he arrived, a member of his unit was killed. His faith and sense of patriotism helped him get through those times."

Funeral services are expected next week. Stout's body will arrive at Andrews Air Force Base in Dover, Delaware on Monday.

From Wood 8