In Memoriam

Brian Scott Letendre was born on May 13, 1978, in Stanford, California and spent his formative years in Woodbridge, Virginia. From an early age, Brian displayed leadership, discipline, and a strong sense of responsibility. He was captain of the soccer team at Potomac High School and a dedicated student, qualities that would later define his service in the United States Marine Corps. After graduating in 1996, he attended Milligan College in Tennessee, where he earned a degree in Computer Science in 2000, balancing academics with athletics and extracurricular leadership roles.

Brian answered the call to serve, joining the United States Marine Corps in 2000. Following The Basic School and the Infantry Officer Course at Quantico, Virginia, he was commissioned as an infantry officer, demonstrating both tactical skill and the ability to inspire those around him. His early assignments included overseas postings in Okinawa, Japan, and Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, giving him a global perspective on military operations and reinforcing his dedication to service.

Capt. Letendre’s first deployment to Iraq came in 2003 during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he served as a platoon commander, leading Marines in combat operations and earning the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat “V” for valor under fire. After returning to the United States, he served as part of the Marine Forces Reserve Inspector and Instructor Staff, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division, based in Plainville, Connecticut, mentoring and preparing Reserve Marines for deployment. While living in New Britain, he became a respected member of the community, balancing family life with military obligations.

Driven by a profound sense of duty, Capt. Letendre volunteered for a second tour in Iraq rather than remain stateside. In April 2005, he returned to Al Anbar Province to serve as a trainer and advisor to Iraqi forces, strengthening local security and fostering collaboration with coalition forces. His leadership, mentorship, and courage were recognized at every level.

On May 3, 2006, Capt. Letendre’s position in Ar Ramadi, Iraq, was attacked with a suicide vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (SVBIED) and indirect fire. While engaging the threat to protect his Marines and Iraqi allies, he was mortally wounded. His actions exemplified selflessness and valor, and he sacrificed his life at the age of 27 in defense of others.

Capt. Letendre’s decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V” (posthumous), Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat “V”, Combat Action Ribbon (Second Award), Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, Iraq Campaign Medal, and multiple Sea Service Deployment Ribbons, reflecting both his repeated deployments and his heroic actions in combat.

In Connecticut, Capt. Letendre’s memory is honored permanently. The Captain Brian S. Letendre U.S.M.C. Memorial Park in New Britain features his name and the handprint of his young son, symbolizing his role as both a Marine and a father. Additionally, a bridge in New Britain bears his name, marking the community’s respect and gratitude for his service and sacrifice. Capt. Letendre was laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, leaving a legacy of courage, leadership, and devotion to country.

Dates

Birth: May 13, 1978 – Stanford, California
Angelversary: May 3, 2006 – Al Anbar Province, Iraq

Service & Achievements

United States Marine Corps Captain
Inspector and Instructor Staff, 1st Battalion, 25th Marine Regiment, 4th Marine Division – Marine Forces Reserve, Plainville, Connecticut
Deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom (2003 invasion and second tour as trainer)
Bronze Star Medal with Combat “V”, Purple Heart, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat “V”, Combat Action Ribbon (Second Award), Presidential Unit Citation, Navy Unit Commendation, Iraq Campaign Medal, multiple Sea Service Deployment Ribbons

Capt. Brian S. Letendre’s life stands as a permanent testament to courage, leadership, and selfless sacrifice — honored in Connecticut and throughout the Marine Corps for generations to come.

---

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.