17 July 1979 – 24 April 2004

Today, we honor the birthday of PO3 Nathan B. Bruckenthal, a true American hero whose bravery and sacrifice continue to inspire. Born on July 17, 1979, Nathan’s life was marked by unwavering dedication to duty and service. His legacy as a Coast Guard Damage Controlman 3rd Class, stationed aboard USS Firebolt during Operation Iraqi Freedom, reminds us of his courage in the face of danger. Nathan’s memory lives on through his selfless actions, honored with the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V,” the Purple Heart, and other prestigious awards. On this special day, we celebrate his enduring impact and remember his commitment to defending our freedoms.

In the soft light of the early evening on April 24, 2004, the world lost a true hero in the northern Persian Gulf. Coast Guard Damage Controlman 3rd Class Nathan B. Bruckenthal, just 24 years old, from Smithtown, N.Y., served with unparalleled bravery and dedication. Assigned to Tactical Law Enforcement Team South Detachment 403, aboard the patrol coastal USS Firebolt, and forward deployed to Manama, Bahrain, Nathan was in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom when his life was claimed in a waterborne attack.

Nathan’s story is one of unwavering courage and sacrifice. On that fateful day, alongside six coalition sailors, he attempted to board a suspicious dhow near the Iraqi Khawr Al Amaya Oil Terminal. Their mission was crucial – to ensure the security of a region and its economic lifelines. However, as they approached, the dhow exploded in a violent act of desperation by those on board, mortally wounding Nathan. He later succumbed to his injuries, marking the first loss of a Coast Guard member in action since the Vietnam War. This attack, claimed by Abu-Musab al-Zarqawi of Al-Qaeda in Iraq, also took the lives of two U.S. Navy sailors, PO1 Michael J. Pernaselli and PO2 Christopher E. Watts, and wounded others.

For his heroic actions, Nathan was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V,” the Purple Heart, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, and the Combat Action Ribbon. His Bronze Star Medal citation highlights the sheer valor and decisive action that characterized his service, preventing further loss of life and environmental disaster.

Nathan’s legacy extends beyond the medals and the citations. He was a beacon of hope and strength in his community, both in Ridgefield, Connecticut, where he once lived, and in Neah Bay, Washington, where he served before his deployment. In Ridgefield, Nathan was remembered as a volunteer firefighter, a helpful and friendly face, ever ready to assist those in need. In Neah Bay, his impact was profound, serving with dedication, engaging as a volunteer firefighter, and coaching high school football. His passing was mourned deeply by communities across the nation, from a heartfelt memorial service in Neah Bay to the enduring remembrance in Ridgefield.

Nathan’s burial at Arlington National Cemetery, Section 60 Site 7978, is a solemn reminder of the price of freedom. The nation remembers him not just as a military hero but as a son, a husband to Patti, and a father-to-be, whose unborn child will know their father as a hero of the highest order.

The Sentinel-class cutter Nathan Bruckenthal (WPC-1128), stationed in Atlantic Beach, North Carolina, proudly bears his name, ensuring his spirit sails on, guarding the freedom and security he gave his life for. In the words of Admiral Karl Schultz, “Nathan Bruckenthal – a name recognized throughout the Service – bridges our rich history with the yet to be written future of this modern cutter.”

As we reflect on Nathan’s sacrifice, we are reminded of the courage, the dedication, and the unwavering commitment of those who serve. Nathan Bruckenthal’s story is one of heroism, a selfless act that embodies the very best of the United States Coast Guard and the indomitable spirit of the American people. His legacy endures, inspiring future generations to serve with honor, courage, and commitment. Nathan B. Bruckenthal, forever a hero, remains in our hearts and memories, a guiding light for all who seek to make this world a safer, better place.