Heaven Was Needing a Hero

In memory of SGT Joshua C. Brennan, 22, of Ontario, Oregon. SGT Brennan, of the 2nd Battalion, 503rd Airborne Infantry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Combat Brigade, was killed during these combat operations in Korengal Valley, Afghanistan.

In a firefight with the Taliban in August, Josh was shot in the leg. After continuing to fight for several hours he made his way down the mountain for help.

On October 25, he was shot again. When the Taliban fighters tried to carry him off, SPC Hugo Mendoza, the unit's medic, protected Josh by throwing grenades at the enemy.

SPC Mendoza gave his life trying to save Josh.

Josh and his mother communicated through their My Space Pages. When SSG Larry Rougle was killed on October 23, Josh's mom played "Heaven Was Needing a Hero" on her page. "Never in my wildest dreams did I know heaven was needing him, too," she said.

Please take a moment to read these tributes to SGT Brennan and SPC Mendoza.

Thank you, Flag Gazer.


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