Thousands remember National Guard officer

By BARBARA HOBEROCK World Capitol Bureau
Published: 9/29/2008  2:05 AM
Last Modified: 9/29/2008  2:13 AM

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View a memorial to the Oklahomans who have died in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
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OKLAHOMA CITY — Several thousand people gathered Sunday in a south Oklahoma City church to celebrate the life and remember Oklahoma Army National Guard Chief Warrant Officer Brady J. Rudolf, 37.

The father of three boys was killed Sept. 18 when the CH-47 Chinook helicopter he was in crashed in southern Iraq.

Also killed were Cpl. Michael Thompson, 23, of Harrah, and Sgt. Dan Eshbaugh, 43, of Norman.

The three were assigned to Detachment 1, Company B, 2nd Battalion, 149th Aviation out of Lexington.

American flags lined the lawn of the Southern Hills Baptist Church as hundreds began arriving at least an hour early.

Rudolf's boots, helmet and a large picture of him greeted those entering the church.

Many mourners wore military uniforms. Police, firefighters and other law enforcement uniforms filled the pews, along with family, friends and those seeking to honor a man known as a hero well before he was deployed.

Rudolf served in the Army National Guard for 20 years. He was remembered as a conscientious pilot, doting father, loyal husband and faithful member of the church.

"We will greatly miss Brady," said Rev. Jeff LeDuc. "The hope of the resurrection is that we will see him again."

His uncle, Roger Northcutt said that in the pictures, Rudolf had a sparkle in his eyes. The sparkle is the brightest and hottest light of freedom shinning in faith, Northcutt said.

His wife, Jennifer, said in a letter read during the service that she was thankful that God put the pair together.

The couple, who were married for 13 years, thought alike and had the same goals, she said.

Pictures of the fallen serviceman were displayed on two large monitors in the church. Rudolf appeared as a child in one picture, holding his children in another and with arms wrapped around his wife in another. He peers out in military and athletic uniforms.

He was awarded several medals posthumously, including the Bronze Star and the Oklahoma Distinguished Service Medal. His three sons and wife were given folded American flags, while the boys were also given the wings their father had worn.

Pastor Douglas O. Melton, who presided over the service, said no one knows when their time will come.

"The greatest thing you will do in your life will be to prepare to meet your Lord," Melton said.

A lone military trumpeter played taps and following the church service, a 21-gun salute was given outside.

Four Chinook helicopters also flew over the church.

Maj. Gen. Bud Wyatt III, Adjutant General of the Oklahoma National Guard, called Rudolf a great soldier, patriot and excellent father.

He said Sunday was a "sad day, but proud day."

"Our life together was so good and perfect," said Jennifer Rudolf, in a statement handed out after the service. "It was the kind that not many people even get to experience in their lives. I am thankful for the time we had and that our boys will grow up knowing Brady is a hero and lived for God, family and our country.

"We will miss him greatly and cherish the beautiful memories in our hearts. Through our faith we will hold onto the promise of seeing him again.

"I love you, Brady."

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Barbara Hoberock 405-528-2465
barbara.hoberock@tulsaworld.com

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