Brad grew up in Coeur d’Alene and Kellogg, Idaho, and graduated from Kellogg High School in 1984. He enjoyed the outdoors—camping, playing sports, and spending time with family and friends. In high school, he was active in JROTC and church youth programs, where his father served as pastor. Brad loved history, movies, and reading. A devout Christian, he regularly attended church and Bible studies; his faith was the cornerstone of his life. He was known as a loyal husband and a fun, nurturing father. Above all, he valued faith, family, and country.

After briefly attending the University of Idaho and North Idaho College, Brad enlisted in the U.S. Army in June 1987. He began his military career as an ammunition specialist and served in Operation Desert Storm in 1990. In 1992, he volunteered for Special Forces training and graduated from the qualification course in 1993. Over the years, he held key positions in the 10th Special Forces Group, including medical sergeant, operations NCO, team sergeant, and first sergeant. At the time of his death, he was serving as a sergeant major with Charlie Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Special Forces Group (Airborne). He deployed to Iraq four times beginning in 2003. On May 9, 2007, during his final deployment, he was killed when his vehicle struck an improvised explosive device near Al-Hillah, Iraq.

His legacy lives on through his wife, Cyndi; his children, Aaron, Katie, and Rachel; and the many family members, friends, and comrades who continue to honor his memory.