Evan Bayh: “Today I wish to honor the life of Marine LT Brandon Barrett from Marion, IN. Brandon was only 27 years old when he lost…”

“Today I wish to honor the life of Marine LT Brandon Barrett from Marion, IN. Brandon was only 27 years old when he lost his life on May 5 while serving bravely in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Lieutenant Barrett was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 6th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune. Today, I join family and friends in mourning his death who will forever remember him as a loving son, brother, and friend. He is survived by his mother, Cindy Barrett, his father, Brett Barrett, his sisters, Ashley and Taylor Barrett and his brother, Brock Barrett. Brandon was a native of Marion. Prior to entering the Marine Corps in 2006, Brandon graduated from Marion High School and attended the U.S. Naval Academy. His family and friends describe him as a bright student, a gifted football and baseball star, and a proud Hoosier who courageously refused to take freedom for granted. Brandon was deployed on his second tour of duty in Afghanistan. During his service, Brandon earned an array of awards, including the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal and NATO International Security Assistance Force Medal. While we struggle to express our sorrow over this loss, we take pride in the example of this American hero. We cherish the legacy of his service and his life.”