Chief Warrant Officer 2, Bryan Joseph
Nichols, 31, died August 6th 2011. There were 30 American
troops that died that day in Afghanistan when their Chinook
helicopter was shot down due to hostile enemy action.
Bryan
was born October 16, 1979 in Hays, the son of Douglas and
Cynthia Nichols. Bryan
attended St.
Joseph
School and was a 1998
TMP-Marian High alum. He served with the 158 Aviator
Regiment Army Reserve in Olathe, KS.
He leaves behind his wife, Mary, a son, Brayden, his
parents, 3 siblings, and many friends.
Bryan
is a true hero. On Wednesday, Aug. 17, Holy Family teachers,
students, and families took part in honoring him with a
silent tribute by proudly lining Vine Street by our
playground with flags in our hands. Our whole community
participated. We quietly stood as the funeral procession
went by with his body. The line was from the airport, down
Highway 40, up Vine to Hays Memorial Chapel.
Most of us did not know Bryan, but we will never
forget him. He bravely gave his life for others. “There is
no greater love than you lay down your life for your
friend.”