United States Army First Lieutenant Thomas J. Brown was born on March 13, 1982, in New Haven, Connecticut, and raised in Shelton. From his youth he demonstrated leadership and a sense of purpose, participating in athletics and academic pursuits during his formative years. He attended Notre Dame Catholic High School in Fairfield, Connecticut, where he was known as an honor student and athlete who built strong relationships with classmates and community members.

After high school, Thomas furthered his education at George Mason University, graduating in 2004 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government and International Politics. Even from an early age, he held a deep respect for service — a calling that took him temporarily into civilian work after college. However, his aspirations soon guided him back to serve his country more directly.

In 2005, Thomas answered that call by joining the United States Army and attending Officer Candidate School at Fort Benning, Georgia. There he earned his commission as a Second Lieutenant and completed the Infantry Officer Basic Course along with Mortar Leaders School, equipping him with the tactical and leadership skills essential for infantry operations. Thomas also completed Airborne School, and his determination and discipline carried him through Ranger School, earning the coveted Ranger Tab — an achievement reflecting physical endurance, mental resilience, and tactical proficiency.

First Lieutenant Brown was assigned to A Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, based in Baumholder, Germany. In this role he served as a platoon leader, instilling confidence and respect among the Soldiers under his command through his thoughtful leadership and dedication to their welfare. He deployed to Iraq on April 3, 2008, in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, committed to leading from the front and making a positive impact wherever his unit was tasked.

On September 23, 2008, while on patrol near Salman Pak, Iraq, Lt. Brown’s platoon came under small‑arms fire from hostile forces. In the performance of his duties he lost his life while serving, at the age of 26. His passing was a moment of deep sorrow for his family, his unit, and the Shelton community — a testament to his courage and his willingness to lead and protect others even in the most dangerous circumstances.

In recognition of his service and sacrifice, First Lieutenant Brown was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, and the Combat Infantryman Badge, honors that reflected both his operational performance and the respect he earned from leaders and peers alike.

Thomas is remembered not only for his service but for the impact he had on those who knew him — remembered as a leader who led by example, a young man with a spirit of service, and someone who valued family, community, and the bonds of brotherhood among his Soldiers. His name was added to Connecticut’s Wall of Honor at the State Capitol, and his memory continues to be honored in Shelton and beyond through monuments and ceremonies that celebrate his life and sacrifice.

Dates:
• Birth: March 13, 1982 — New Haven, Connecticut
• Angelversary: September 23, 2008 — Salman Pak, Iraq

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army First Lieutenant, Infantry Officer
• A Company, 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division
• Deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, April 3, 2008
• Completed Officer Candidate School, Airborne School, Ranger School
• Posthumously awarded Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, and Combat Infantryman Badge
• Name added to Connecticut’s Wall of Honor at the State Capitol

United States Army 1st Lt. Thomas J. Brown’s legacy stands as an enduring example of leadership, service, and sacrifice — a life lived in honor of his country and his community.

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