Bryan David Berky was born on March 22, 1984, in Tampa, Florida to proud parents Bill and Sonya Berky. From the moment he was born, Bryan always had a smile on his face. He was a happy baby and outgoing little boy and became the proud big brother of Jeremy at the age of 5. 

Bryan had a fun and active childhood. By the age of 13, he had participated in Scouts, played baseball, became a certified scuba diver, earned a Black Belt in karate, and played the violin in the All-State Honors orchestra with the Florida Orchestra. 

Bryan's teens were filled with school, friends, and a well-rounded list of activities. Bryan enjoyed sports and played tennis and football. He participated in the Drama Club, High-Q Team, and video projects for the Yearbook Club. A graduate of the Bradford High School class of 2002, he was voted class clown by his peers, which came to no surprise by all who knew him. 

After the tragic events of Sept. 11, 2001, Bryan knew that military service was what he was called to do. He enlisted in the Air Force during his senior year and was sworn in on July 9th, 2002. The field he chose - Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD), was exciting to him. Although his family was frightened at the idea of him being so close to danger in an elite field, Bryan was very proud to become part of the EOD family. 

Bryan married the girl of his dreams -- his best friend since middle school, Erin -­on July 25, 2003, in St. Augustine. Shortly after they married, Bryan received a duty assignment and they moved their newlywed life to Okinawa, Japan. 

During the 4 years they spent in Okinawa, Bryan's EOD career advanced significantly. He deployed twice, to Kuwait in 2006 and Afghanistan in 2007, and supported the PACAF mission in various TDYs, VIPs, range clearances, and local calls. He was promoted twice to reach his rank of Staff Sergeant and received many awards for his faithful and excellent service. 

When not working, Bryan took college courses, spent time with Erin, and enjoyed all that life had to offer. He loved exploring the island of Okinawa, scuba diving, fishing, and camping, playing golf, rock climbing, and grilling with friends. He loved music and playing the guitar, and was a member of a successful rock band. One of his shining moments was playing his first show at a local music venue in Okinawa. 

2008 brought many changes for Bryan when he learned that not only would he be returning to the states, but also he and Erin were expecting their first child. He was assigned to Ellsworth AF Base in South Dakota in late 2008 and was thrilled to purchase and build his first home, the one he hoped to raise his new family in. His son Harrison was born on December 18, 2008, making Bryan a proud father. 

Bryan was deployed just a short 3 months later for his third deployment, the second tour in Afghanistan. He spent 6 months serving his country before the fateful day when his team was ambushed, less than a month before he was due home. At the young age of 25, SSgt Bryan Berky was killed in action from wounds sustained from enemy fire on September 12, 2009, leaving behind his wife Erin, son Harrison, parents Sonya and Bill, brother Jeremy, and countless friends, teammates, and loved ones. 

Of his heroic actions and unselfish dedication to duty, Bryan was posthumously awarded a Bronze Star with Valor, Purple Heart, and Joint Service Commendation Medal. During his 7 years of military service, Bryan also earned many other awards including an Air Force Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal, and Air Force Combat Action Medal. 

Bryan will be remembered not only for his heroic actions and the life he gave for his country and fellow man but for the life he lived while we were blessed with his presence. Bryan lived life with a passion unmatched by anyone, and his love of life touched the hearts of all who knew him. While he is greatly missed, his spirit will live on always in the hearts of many.