Saturday, January 27, 2007

Bryan Chism remembered

The Pentagon reports that twelve American soldiers have died over the last three days. This comes as the U.S. Military releases new information about the ambush attack that killed four U.S. soldier, including Army Specialist Jonathan Bryan Chism of Prairieville.

Chism's father says he's buried in 22 years of memories and the legacy Bryan left behind.

"You always think it's the other guy, but sometimes you become the other guy," said Danny Chism, Bryan's father.

When his son left for Iraq last October, Danny Chism always knew there was a possibility his son Bryan wouldn't make it home.

A Navy Veteran himself, Danny watched the war overseas unfold. He knew what his son was getting into.

"No parent wants to see their children go in the military in war times. But, it has to happen. We have to have soldiers," Danny said.

Danny's daughter, Julie is a paralegal for the Army. She too was stationed overseas. She was Bryan's inspiriation.

"His sister joined first and he looked up to her. He wanted to follow her," Danny said.

Julie has a few months left in her tour in Iraq. Though he admires her courage, her father says he doesn't want Julie to complete her mission.

"I'm gonna do everything in my power and talk to everyone I can to keep her from going back over because it would be very tough taking a chance on another," Danny said.

Danny remembers why his son served, and why it's so important others continue the fight. It says so on Bryan's myspace page.

Since he learned of his son's death last week, Danny has scrolled through his son's biography and guestbook. Friends have left words of consolation and their memories of Bryan.

Specialist Chism will be waked at Ourso Funeral Home in Gonzales Thursday and Friday from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Funeral services will be held at Gonzales Baptist Church Saturday, February 3 at 10:30 a.m.

Read the rest at WAFB

Related Link:
Bryan Chism reported killed in Iraq