Todays walk was dedicated in honor of :
US Army/Marine Veteran SGT Brandon Ketchum, Age 33 of Davenport, IA.
Died July 8, 2016
He was a graduate of Wisconsin Dells High School, Class of 2001.
At the age of 21, Brandon enlisted in the US Marine Corps and proudly served from 2004-2008 as a combat engineer, serving two tours in Iraq. In July of 2008, he joined the Army as a combat engineer, and in 2010 he was deployed to Afghanistan with the Iowa National Guard. After being injured in the line of duty and enduring multiple surgeries he was honorably discharged. He had a great enthusiasm for the armed forces and was known for being a man that would drop everything to support his fellow brothers and sisters or anyone in need. His true loves of his life were his daughter, Layla and soulmate, Kristine.
Brandon and Layla had a special bond that will be remembered. After his time in the military Brandon took up the hobby of woodworking and excelled in his craft by making beautiful butcher blocks, cutting boards and shadow boxes for fellow military friends and family. He was proud of his skill and took great time to master the art. Family and friends will forever remember Brandon’s unique sense of humor and ability to bring laughter and happiness to anyone he came in contact with.
Sgt Brandon Michael Ketchum lost his battle with PTS on July 8, 2016 after being turned away from Iowa City VA and denied medical treatment. He was 33 years old.
We had a great 5.65 Mile walk this morning. We started out walking towards town and what a beautiful sunrise we had. We walked up west Ave. to town and stopped in at the War Memorial Park. We read a few names off of the memorial wall and then we stood at attention till we received 22 honks. Our walk today was to help bring awareness to Veteran Suicide. 22 Veterans a day are committing suicide. We need to bring that down to zero. It took around 35 to 40 min. and we then had our 22 honks so we continued our walk up main street and headed towards home. Once we reached the house we stood out by my flags at attention till we received another 22 honks. It took around 30 min. I want to thank all those who honked, waved, and saluted today in helping me honor this hero and helping me bring awareness to Veteran suicide. We ended up with 140 honks this morning. It was amazing and what a beautiful morning to have this walk. Thank you and let us never forget US Army/Marine Veteran SGT Brandon Ketchum and his service to our country.
NOTE: I want to thank Tabors Pawn Shop and West Ave Exxon for flying our beautiful colors.
