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In Memoriam

Colonel Brian L. Webster

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Colonel Brian L. Webster

21 June 2010

Colonel Brian L. Webster departed this world on June 21, 2010 after a valiant battle with kidney cancer.

Brian was born in Minneapolis, MN. At age 16, Brian won the Grand Champion of the National Model Airplane Championships of 1970. He graduated in 1979 with a degree in Aeronautical Engineering from The University of Tennessee. Brian's dream was to be a pilot and he joined the Air Force in 1980 where he flew F-15 fighters. He served six years in the Air Force and continued his military career in the Air National Guard flying F-16s, for a total of 27 years. He served as Squadron Commander of the 119th Fighter Group in 2001 and played a key role in protecting US airspace post 9/11. His Guard career culminated with the distinguished Legion of Merit Award for outstanding service as the Wing Commander of the 177th Fighter Wing, Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey. He retired from military service in June 2007. As a traditional guardsman, he also flew 23 years for American Airlines and was a 767 International Captain. Brian's passions were Civil War and World War II history, college football (Tennessee Volunteers and Penn State) and vegetable gardening. Brian's legacy is all those that he helped during his life, and the positive and compassionate impact he had on all those that crossed his path. He was humble, quick to laugh and saw the good in everyone. He leaves behind many friends that will feel the void for a long time.


Visitor Comments
Colonel Brian Webster
Paul Connors, Nov 03, 2011 - 09:26 PM

I served as Colonel Webster's Wing Historian in the 177 FW, NJANG prior to his relinquishing command. I was genuinely blessed to have him as a boss, especially since he, a fighter pilot had such a keen love of history himself. On one occasion, when I did something deserving of discipline, he exercised compassion and restraint and the way he handled the situation resulted in my becoming a better NCO. After that, there was nothing I wouldn't do for him or to keep his esteem. He was an outstanding officer, a great leader and a gentleman. I was already retired from the ANG when I heard he'd passed away and his death was a shock. His passing was a real loss to all who knew him, but especially his wife and children. He will be missed and I was honored to know him. RIP Colonel.

Paul Connors

last Historian of the 177 FW, NJANG.

Thank you Paul Conners
Jennifer Webster, Nov 11, 2014 - 05:36 AM

I stumbled upon this forum and would love to somehow convey my appreciation for the way you described my father. Upon hearing your intimate descriptions like this, I'm really at loss of words. There were so many different facets about this man and your perspective was one I wasn't privy to. (Not to say I wouldn't think he would be compassionate, but I never had the chance to view him from your perspective). Mr. Conners, thank you so much for putting out there your experience with my dad. I can't empathize it enough, it's so comforting to recognize his impact and existence upon others. As such, I appreciate the impact in which you provided me upon reviewing thus forum.

-Jennifer Webstetr

Hello Jennifer
Paul Connors, Jan 28, 2015 - 08:42 PM

Dear Jennifer,

Should you come back to this forum, I would be more than happy to share some of my fond memories of your father. I can be reached at paulconnors@hotmail.com. From there I will provide you my phone number should you care to speak in real time.

I think of your father often and when asked to give an example of an exceptional officer and leader, I always mention your Dad.

Please accept my condolences for your loss, even at this late date.

Sincerely,

Paul Connors







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