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Amanda Butterfield ReportingJodi VanRhee: "Everything he did over in Iraq he did with all of his heart, and he said repeatedly the Iraqis would thank him."
A Salt Lake family has some peace this evening. The body of their son who died in Iraq is back in home.
Carried by his fellow guardsmen in the 19th Special Forces Group Sgt. Brandon Thomas' remains returned home greeted first by his mother. The rest of his family and close friends were also there, all too distraught to talk.
Maj. Hank McIntire, Utah National Guard: “Brandon’s mom just wanted me to convey to the community that it’s great to have him home, and she’s very appreciative of all the prayers and support.”
Brandon died only two weeks ago. He was protecting dignitaries in Baghdad when a suicide bomber killed him and 21 others. Brandon wasn't stationed overseas with the Guard when he died, he chose to go and work as a civilian contractor, a common choice among guardsmen.
Gen. Brian L. Tarbet, Utah National Guard: “Some of the skill sets of Utah Guardsmen are in such demand in the contracting community that this goes on more often than not, not just in Utah but in many locations.”
Brandon will be remembered by his community as a passionate soldier.
Jodi VanRhee, Pastor Adventure Four-Square Church: "Everything he did over in Iraq he did with all of his heart."
And those close to his family say it's their religion that will get them through this.
Jodi VanRhee, Pastor Adventure Four-Square Church: "All of our days are numbered, and whether we think it's the right number or not, the Lord knows best."
Funeral services for Sgt. Thomas will be held Tuesday morning in Draper at the 4-Square Adventure church he and his family attend.
