Condolences and Reflections for
Air Tanker 26
 
Tom Lynch, Redding, CA Brian Bruns, Minden, NV Paul Cockrell, Fresno, CA



April 20, 2005

"3 new Angels in Heaven way too soon..."
www.virtual-condolences.com

 

It's a few months now since one of the best friends I have ever had has passed on to fly with the Eagles, and I still shed tears everyday. We met in VP 67 and have stayed very close ever since. He is a product of a great family and blessed every person in which he came into contact.
Kenny Bell ADC USNR Ret <kennybell@att.net>
Lee's Summit , Mo USA - Wednesday, October 05, 2005 at 13:43:18 (PDT)
They say you can tell how successful a person is by how many lives they touch in a positive way. We may have lost the most successful person we'll ever meet. What greater legacy to leave on this earth than people want to be like you. Thanks for being my friend Brian. If I can be just a LITTLE bit like you, the world will be a better place. Deepest Condolences to all the families. Two things for sure. You know what lies beyond and I get to live one more day. I know you'll be waiting for me over in the promised land. Hope to see ya again Brian.
Ralph Wheeler <ralphwheeler@bellsouth.net>
Pensacola, FL USA - Sunday, September 04, 2005 at 17:00:32 (PDT)
With great sadness, I heard of Brian's passing the other day. Of all the officers I had been in contact with, he was the most human and listened to the whinings of this Navy wife. The world has truly lost a great soul. Thanks Brian for being human and may you fly forever in the spirit world.
Kelli Mendenhall <kwindshawne@sbcglobal.net>
Xenia, OH USA - Friday, July 01, 2005 at 18:45:04 (PDT)
Brian and I served together as Second Class Electrician's Mates in the Navy in Patrol Squadron Forty Eight in the late 80's. Brian was our hero, I remember when he was selected and went to AOCS to get his commission. We teased him about being Ensign Bruns. Brian would do anything for anyone. I can't say enough about the man. Brian administered the relistment oath to me in November 1991, an honor I will never forget. I still have a picture of us at that ceremony. Brian, God bless you and thanks! Patrick
R. Patrick Brice <rpbrice@woh.rr.com>
Troy, OH USA - Tuesday, June 28, 2005 at 09:26:21 (PDT)
My best friend and my love. We meet in CA while we were both stationed at Moffett Field. Since I left, we were always in contact with each other, talking at least 2x a month. Brian was the best person I have and will ever meet. You will always be in my prayers and so greatly missed. I will just look into the blue skies and think that you went the way you wanted to go. UP!
Erin M. <einmt@hotmail.com>
Helena, mt USA - Monday, June 20, 2005 at 10:42:08 (PDT)
I first met and flew with Brian while attached to my first squadron in the late 80’s. He was such a great guy with a positive, sunny attitude. He will be truly missed.
Jim MacRae <flyp3_navy@yahoo.com>
Puyallup, WA USA - Monday, June 13, 2005 at 13:34:39 (PDT)
All of our prayers are with the families. Brian was a GREAT man. I had the honor of meeting only once with his brother Rusty, but there was not a doubt of his love for life and his family. I did get to speak with him on a few other occassions on the phone. He was quite the character. Without a doubt he was called to help them upstairs to put out a few more important fires. Lots of love to the families for their loss.
Haynie Hutto <hamptonhutto@yahoo.com>
Spartanburg, SC USA - Thursday, May 26, 2005 at 05:59:24 (PDT)
My last flight with VP-65 was with Brian. Met him in VP-91 in about '93 or so and we had not seen each other for at least 8 years when we crossed again. I have never met a bigger man or a truer friend. You are dearly missed, my friend. My thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of T-26. Godspeed, on the wings of the red and white angel....
Mark Wilde
Colorado Springs, CO USA - Wednesday, May 25, 2005 at 20:47:52 (PDT)
I found out about the loss of Brian last night when his Mother called. It is a great loss, He is a true friend to all he knows and would give you the shirt off his back. I can only hope that someday I will measure up to become half the Man and human being Brian has been. We will miss you, Brian. The only true friend, proffessional and overall great individual I have ever know. THere will be no replacing you, the mold was broken when you were made. Fair Winds my brother!
Frank Deaton <deatonfd@compass-sys-inc.com>
lexington Park, MD USA - Thursday, May 19, 2005 at 10:17:26 (PDT)
Farewell and following seas. This tragedy really strikes a chord with me. I just got out of the Navy where I flew P3's. The P3 world has always been a tight group. I would like to thank the 3 heros that died for keeping our communities safe from the threat of fire. I am very greatfull for your sacrafice. Now I am sure that you are all flying with the angels
Jeromie Skinner <jeromie_s@angelsbaseball.us>
Paso Robles, Ca USA - Saturday, May 14, 2005 at 10:11:51 (PDT)
My prayers and condolences to the family of these fine pilots. Brian was a dear friend and a huge hole has been left now that he is gone.....to the tallest man I have known..you are missed....mini-me
Sandee <theloanwiz@yahoo.com>
Carson City, NV USA - Monday, May 02, 2005 at 18:14:12 (PDT)
Brian was a great friend and pilot, condolences to his family and the families of the two others lost. Time here is too short, hope to see you someday where we can revisit old memories for all eternity.
Mike Bell <bellmd@wt.net>
Conroe, TX USA - Friday, April 29, 2005 at 03:17:53 (PDT)
My deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of our 3 heroes. Gods blessings and peace be with each of you in this difficult time. The fire world will miss our boys so very much....a friend in Northern Cal.
CE
USA - Thursday, April 28, 2005 at 16:15:40 (PDT)
My deepest condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of our 3 heroes. Gods blessings and peace be with each of you in this difficult time. The fire world will miss our boys so very much....a friend in Northeren Cal.
CE
USA - Thursday, April 28, 2005 at 16:14:56 (PDT)
On behalf of the National Native American Fire and Emergency Services Foundation, and the South Santa Clara County Fire District/CDF in Gilroy CA, our deepest sympanthy and condolences to the members and family's of Aero Union.
Tim Irwin <tim.irwin@fire.ca.gov>
Cottonwood, AZ USA - Wednesday, April 27, 2005 at 19:56:43 (PDT)
As a member of the fire community I want to give to the Areo Union family my deepest sympanthy and condolences to the 3 brave men on T-26 and fhe families left behind, T-26 will be greatly missed especially on the fire line, God Speed boys.
LC <fire27fighter79@yahoo.com>
Santa Barbara, Ca USA - Wednesday, April 27, 2005 at 18:37:10 (PDT)
I had the opportunity to see Brian just five weeks ago at the Naval Postgraduate School's Trident Room. I hadn't seen him since VP-91's disestablishment. We hoisted a couple of beers and teased Jenny about robbing the cradle. We were supposed to get together soon for a ski trip near home. I guess I'll have to wait to see him in the big tube in the sky. He is the best shipmate and shipwreck I'll ever have. PH1/AC
Javier Chagoya <jchagoya@nps.edu>
Monterey, CA USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 21:36:02 (PDT)
My condolences to the families of these three selfless heros. I had an opportunity to meet some of Aero Union's employees several years ago (Jan Reifenberg when he piloted T-22 out of Santa Barbara), and it showed the quality of people this company hires. Thanks for keeping us safe guys. You, and T-26, will be greatly missed.
Ryan <deadshot@hotmail.com>
Goleta, CA USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 18:24:20 (PDT)
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That is a wonderful thought. Our prayers are with you.
Betsy Matthewson <Betsy Matthewson>
Philadelphia, PA USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 12:59:26 (PDT)
It was a long night and no one gave up hoping/praying till early the next morning when we got people on site. In the emotionaly charged situation the professional attitude shown by all was a credit to the company, colleagues, friends and family of those we lost.
Walt Malena <wmalena@fs.fed.us>
Susanville, CA USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 12:42:56 (PDT)
Served with Brian in VP-91 and he immediately befriended me and my son. He hoped the best, saw the best and brought out the best in everyone he met.
Donna Lou Morgan <code1@earthlink.net>
Cupertino, CA USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 12:19:11 (PDT)
My Condolences to Brians family. I remember him as a kind and generous man. Rest in Peace my friend. Val
Valerie Nordberg <Valerie.Nordberg@Mortgagefamily.com>
Ponte Vedra Beach, Fl USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 10:32:20 (PDT)
Although I wasn't at work on that tragic day, my tears still run down my cheeks for the pilots
BLM
Susanville, CA USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 10:27:13 (PDT)
To my best friend in college and most loyal shipmate at VP-67, may God speed, buddy. The only loss in this tragedy are the people who never got to meet Brian. God Bless Brian, Paul and Tom. Drew Torres, MI (URNR ret)
Drew Torres <jayhawker@chartermi.net>
MI USA - Tuesday, April 26, 2005 at 07:49:16 (PDT)
Flew many hours with Brian in US Navy. Super great guy, fine Naval Officer. Really tough news...
Malcolm Swain <sellsell59@comcast.net>
Plano, TX USA - Monday, April 25, 2005 at 21:42:59 (PDT)
Brian you will be greatly missed. You are a true hero in every sense of the word. I love you and will never forget all that you did for me.
A fan of "the Man"
USA - Monday, April 25, 2005 at 19:34:46 (PDT)
My heart goes out to the family and friends of T-26 crew. I wish you all strong hearts and souls to cope with this tragedy. These folks as well as T-26 will be missed by all.
Ron McLaughlin, Fire Captain <rmclaugh@doi.blm.gov>
Alturas, Ca USA - Sunday, April 24, 2005 at 21:22:02 (PDT)
Paul - Really sorry we won't get to play that round of golf until we meet again at the big green in the sky. It was an honor and a pleasure to have known you. Gary and Chris Riley
Gary Riley <svrstsm2cableone.net>
Boise, ID USA - Sunday, April 24, 2005 at 21:20:51 (PDT)
I'm sorry for the loss of all three families. Brian was staying here with us and I still can't believe they are gone. We'll keep you in our prayers and keep the memories of those brave men close to your hearts.
Stephenie Martin <shortstuff545265@sbcglobal.net>
Chico, Ca USA - Sunday, April 24, 2005 at 15:18:32 (PDT)
Go with God. Fly high and always with a tail wind. We will miss all three of you dearly. Also will miss T-26. I truely beleive "She" has a soul too. T-26 fly free on your new golden wings also.
Aircraft Dispatcher.
Redding, CA USA - Saturday, April 23, 2005 at 23:08:10 (PDT)
Words are never enough, God's Speed. May you all fly high and free on your golden wings. You all will be dearly missed. Prayers are with you families in this time of need.
Sue -NOPS dispatcher
Redding, CA USA - Saturday, April 23, 2005 at 23:03:06 (PDT)
To Tom,Brian,Paul, Our friends we will miss you but you will always be in our hearts From everyone at Redding Air Attack Base
Jim Heffley <jheffley@fs.fed.us>
Redding, CA USA - Friday, April 22, 2005 at 10:37:24 (PDT)
T 26 I remember when you turned the corner for me, God speed guys, you won't be forgotten.
Dan Chartier <Dan.Chartier@fire.ca.gov>
Cottonwood, Ca USA - Friday, April 22, 2005 at 09:04:50 (PDT)
From all of us in SHU CDF and Shasta County Fire. We are there for your Final Approach
Joe Roberson <joe.roberson@fire.ca.gov>
Redding, Ca Shasta - Friday, April 22, 2005 at 08:36:59 (PDT)
My deepest sympathies for all the families involved. I understand what you are going through and know that you have the love and support of the entire fire community.
Lori Greeno <LGreeno@msn.com>
Soulsbyville, CA USA - Friday, April 22, 2005 at 07:03:54 (PDT)
From all at the Butte ECC our thoughts and prayers are with all affected by this tragic loss.
Tiffany Jarvis <tiffany.jarvis@fire.ca.gov>
Oroville, CA USA - Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 20:48:00 (PDT)
As a dipatcher of aircraft for CDF my heart goes out to the families, loved ones, coworkers, brother and sister pilots on the loss of these men. Tanker crews have my utmost respect and admiration for the challenges they face on a daily basis and the amazing job that they do. You will not be forgotten. Please fly home on the wings of Angels and may the Lord hold you in the hollow of his hand.
Annie Vandergoot <Anne.Vandergoot@fire.ca.gov>
Morgan Hill, CA USA - Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 19:00:31 (PDT)
Rest in peace my friends.
A friend
CA USA - Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 16:28:37 (PDT)
My deepest condolences to all of the families, friends, co-workers, and Aero Union on the loss of these 3 heroes. We have all lost a piece of our hearts and share in your loss. These 3 heroes are now soaring with Angels...
Brian Kornegay <oneputt@pacific.net>
Ukiah, CA USA - Thursday, April 21, 2005 at 16:17:10 (PDT)