LCpl Lara was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 4th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California. His vehicle was struck by two grenades and small arms fire when his convoy was attacked during a mission. Despite the fact that Lara lost his rifle and was mortally wounded, he drew his pistol and continued to fire on the enemy until his last breath. From the age of 10, Brandon knew he was going to be a Marine. His favorite toys were guns, swords and knives. While attending New Braunfels Canyon High School, he finished his credits a semester early so he could leave for boot camp before his May 2006 graduation. Brandon's first tour was from February 2008 to December 2008, and then his second and final tour started in February 2009. He was scheduled to return home in time to celebrate his 21st birthday with family and friends. He died having earned numerous service awards, including the National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal and the Sea Service Deployment Ribbon. Brandon loved being outdoors and enjoyed baseball, shooting paintball, riding his motorcycle and spending time with his family. He was strong willed, fearless and knew exactly what he wanted to do and did it. He loved being a Marine and wouldn't have lived his life any other way. Hundreds of people lined the roads from Randolph Air Force Base to New Braunfels to pay their respects to Brandon. Some held flags, some held their hand over their heart and others bowed their head in respect – Brandon would probably have been amazed.

Note: Brandon's father, Jacob Lara, accepted the Bronze Star with the Combat Distinguishing Device or 'V' for valor for his son during a September 8, 2009 ceremony at the Navy Operational Support Center, Fort Sam Houston, Texas.

(Bio by: Brenda Normandin)