Brian Kavanagh

1979 - 2016

On June 28, 2016, Maj. Brian A. Kavanagh, beloved husband of Jessica Kavanagh, loving father of Meryn and Evelyn Denis and Susan Kavanagh, devoted brother of Alison Kavanagh and her husband Michael Stallings, Molly Kavanagh husband Justin Finn, and Uncle of Daniel Kavanagh, passed away unexpectedly from pneumonia.
Maj. Kavanagh was born in Pittsburg, Kansas on January 28, 1979. He was a 1997 graduate of St. Mary's Colgan, Pittsburg, Kansas, and received a degree in Political Science and Military from Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg, Kansas in 2001.
Maj. Brian Kavanagh began his career commissioned through the Reserve Officer Training Corps as a Second Lieu Infantry branch of the United States Army. As a 2nd LT, Brian completed the US Army Ranger School and was assigned Company, 1/8 infantry, 3rd Brigade, 4th Infantry Division. As a Platoon Leader, Brian led in garrison and combat, receiving Bronze Stars for actions during his first deployment in Iraq in 2006. During his time with 1/8 Infantry, he was promc Lieutenant and then Captain. CPT Kavanagh transitioned to the Military Intelligence Branch and served as an Intellig Advisor to the Afghanistan Army where he received another Bronze Star for actions in combat in 2009. Brian finished his duty career as the Company Commander for Alpha Company, 308th Military Intelligence Battalion, 902nd Military I Group where he earned the Meritorious Service Medal for his service to both Alpha Company and the Aberdeen Proving Ground Military Intelligence Detachment. Brian transitioned to the U.S. Army Reserves and was promoted to the rank of Major. He was activated to serve as the Chief of Joint Operations for the Joint Reserve Intelligence Support Element to the - States Africa Command J2 – Intelligence Directorate. After leaving the Army, Maj. Kavanagh worked for the Department of Defense.
Brian dearly loved his wife Jessica. He adored his daughters, they were the light in his eyes. He was a devoted son to his mother and father and loved his sisters.
Maj. Kavanagh was highly respected and loved by all who served with him. He was a true leader and protector. He was concerned with the greater good and was a true humanitarian. He will be sadly missed by all.
A celebration of Brian's life will be held at McCarthy's Pub on Saturday August 13 at 7pm, to further his vision of a website, Vetlinks.org to help all Veterans navigate through their difficult journey as they try to access VA services.