Fearless: Father of fallen U.S. Navy SEAL speaks to service members at 188th

  • Published
  • By Maj. Heath Allen
  • 188th Wing executive officer
EBBING AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Ark. --  Mr. Larry Brown spoke to service members at the 188th Wing about his son, U.S. Navy SEAL Adam Brown, whose story was told in the New York Times bestseller book "Fearless" authored by Eric Blehm. Brown addressed a packed auditorium at the 188th's Colonel Hugh. B. Correll Headquarters Building Jan. 9.

The book, which was written after Brown's son died in combat in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, focuses on Adam Brown's battle with drug addiction and his subsequent time in the Navy with SEAL Team 6. Adam Brown, a native of Hot Springs, Arkansas, died in a combat mission in Komar Province, Afghanistan on March 17, 2010.

During his time at the wing, Larry Brown spoke about his son's childhood, his strong will and how he was able to channel his energy and shift his focus from drug addiction to his transformation into one of the United States' elite special operators.

Following a video presentation that celebrated Adam Brown's life, an emotional Larry Brown thanked the military audience, which included U.S. Navy SEALs, for its service.

"I didn't realize how emotional I would get until I stood up here and looked out in the crowd and saw all the military uniforms," Larry Brown said. "I can't thank you enough for what you do. Adam was proud to serve and I know all of you have that same pride."

Larry Brown's message focused on perseverance through extreme adversity and the importance of faith and family.

"We were extremely appreciative that Mr. Brown took the time to speak to our wing," said Col. Bobbi Doorenbos, 188th Wing commander. "It was a great message and I'm glad our unit members had the opportunity to hear such an amazing story about a true American hero."

Larry Brown was greeted with a fervent standing ovation following a heartfelt speech that concluded with a reading of several of his son's journal entries from his time in combat.

"Adam figured out what was most important and he loved God, his family and his country," Larry Brown said. "Even as he was being loaded in the helicopter to be airlifted out of there, his last words were, 'I'm okay' and I truly believe that he is because he's with God."