SGT Brandon M. Silk, 25, died serving our country on June 21, 2010 in Afghanistan. He was born on December 23, 1984, at Elmendorf AFB, Alaska, the son of Mark A. and Lynn M. (Ronan) Silk. From an early age, Brandon wanted to fly. His favorite movie was “Top Gun.” Brandon was a 2003 graduate of Orono High School having transferred from Calais High School. At Orono, Brandon excelled in football and track. His classmates gave him the nickname “Silky Smooth.”
Following graduation, Brandon enlisted in the US Army. He was a Black Hawk Crew Chief and a member of the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. He was on his fourth tour of duty having served in Korea, Iraq, and two tours in Afghanistan. Brandon loved hunting, fishing and the great outdoors. His favorite colors were “Mossy Oak” and “Blaze Orange”. He will be remembered for his big personality, self-determination, self-confidence and being so full of life. Brandon enjoyed music, playing the guitar, trivia, following the Red Sox and Patriots, and riding motorcycles. Brandon loved Maine, especially the family camp at Green Lake. Brandon especially appreciated Bob Marley’s interpretations of life in Maine. He loved being the “Crazy Mainer” in his unit. Brandon loved his family, his friends, and fellow soldiers. He was proud to serve with the men and women of the 101st Airborne Division.