Brian Bourgeois (aka “Booj”) was just what you would expect from a commanding officer of a SEAL Team. Humble, down to earth, loving family man, always up for fun and overall, as squared-away as they come.
Some of our team members were lucky enough to have known Booj (he attended the same high school as many of our members) and those who didn’t certainly wish they had. We all feel a special connection to such an incredible human being. He is the essence of patriotism that makes us proud to have known him in some small way.
Below is Brian’s obituary. Each year we hold a crawfish boil on Saturday afternoon at the Houston World Championship BBQ Contest to honor him (he was a proud Cajun, born in Lake Charles). We also support the Seal Legacy Foundation in his honor and encourage donations to that organization. As well, some of you may know of the Tunnel to Towers Foundation - who paid off the mortgage on the Bourgeois home following his death. Below are links to both organizations, should you wish to support Brian and fellow Gold Star Families.
Brian Bourgeois
Born in Lake Charles, Louisiana, Brian was a 1997 graduate of James E. Taylor High School in Katy, Texas. As a proud Cajun and avid outdoorsman, Brian grew up hunting and fishing with his friends and family and was a stand-out athlete on the football and baseball teams. His desire to serve, passion to lead, and determination drove his appointment to the United States Naval Academy. While at USNA, Brian was a four year member of the varsity football team where he left an undeniable legacy of friendship, perseverance, and commitment.
Upon graduation and commissioning in 2001, Brian was selected as a Surface Warfare Officer. After 3 years and multiple attempts, he was chosen to attend BUD/s and graduated with class 253. He went on to earn his master's degree in Defense Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School and received the Pat Tillman Leadership Award for his class.
Commander Bourgeois was the special combination of grit and determination coupled with a laid-back, easy going personality. A leader of action, "Booj" showed care and concern for those with whom he served and was endlessly present to listen and provide help when needed. He defaulted to a mindset of service to others and engaged meaningfully within the community. Never one to miss the opportunity for a good time, Brian was often the last to leave a party after socializing with everyone in the room.
Brian loved large; Nothing brought him more pride and joy than his wife, children and dogs. He spent every possible moment pouring love and attention into his children. Whether it was cheering at soccer, baseball, volleyball tournaments or helping with homework, he remained a constant source of strength in their lives and was determined to be a regular presence despite the high operational tempo of his profession. Brian and Megan recently celebrated 20 years of marriage, and she truly was the love of his life. They shared every adventure together and created a beautiful family that brings endless love, happiness and instant camaraderie to all who are lucky enough to know them. Brian was immensely proud of his wife and children and never missed an opportunity to talk about them.
