Bradley N. Shilling
Specialist, Army National Guard
May 2, 1984 – November 18, 2006
Age – 22
Stanwood, MI
Operation Iraqi Freedom
1st Battalion 125th Infantry Division Mechanized, Michigan Army National Guard, Big Rapids, MI
Killed by an improvised explosive device that detonated near his vehicle in Baghdad, Iraq
On November 18, 2008 Specialist Bradley N Shilling offered the ultimate sacrifice. Assigned to the 1st Battalion, 125th Infantry Regiment (Mechanized), Michigan National Guard, Big Rapids, Mich.; Brad died of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad.
He was born May 2, 1984 in Flint. He moved to Evart as a child and graduated from Reed City High School in 2003. Brad joined the Army National Guard in his junior year of high school because he wanted to serve his country.
Brad was deployed to Iraq and left home on May 31, 2006. He was assigned to E. Company 1st battalion, 125th Infantry, also known as the “HOOLIGANS”.
He truly felt he could help the people of Iraq. Brad is remembered for his smiling eyes and easy-going, good nature. He gave his life doing what he believed in – he was helping the world be a better place. I don’t know if the kids will fully know what Brad sacrificed for our liberties. Because of his ultimate sacrifice, we benefit living in the best country in the world.