Local Soldier, Brian Scott Freeman, Killed in Iraq

Soldier's Family Reacts to His Death

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. -- The family of Army Capt. Brian Freeman is preparing to bury their son but remember him as a quiet and confident young man. Freeman was born in Bakersfield but lived in Temecula with his wife Charlotte and two young children Gunner and Ingrid.

Freeman was killed Saturday in Karbala, Iraq when his Civil Affairs unit was ambushed by Iraqi insurgents disguised as U.S. troops.

Five soldiers were killed in that attack, on a day where 27 U.S. troops lost their lives.

Robert Freeman lives in Bakersfield and has just returned from visiting his son's widow in Temecula. Freeman said his son was a super person and that they're proud of his service to his country. The Freemans received a letter of recommendation from the governor of Karbala commending Brian Freeman for all the work he had done for the Iraqi people and specifically the people of Karbala.

Karbala has been one of the most dangerous cities in Iraq and is a holy city for Shiites. Robert Freeman said, " The world is a little worse off without Brian."

Brian Freeman attended West Point Academy in New York and graduated in 1999. He served as a tank commander before getting involved in the World Class Athletes program where he went to Lake Placid, N.Y., and worked with the U.S. Bobsled and Skeleton teams.

Brian Freeman was an Army reserve and was recalled to serve in Iraq. Brian Freeman's family has established the Brian Freeman Memorial Fund at Washington Mutual, account # 9340239478. The public may also send flowers to Freeman's widow at 4033 Logan Court, Temecula, CA 92592. All the money will go to Brian Freeman's children's college funds.

Copyright 2007 by TurnTo23.com.