His West Point years were formative, yet they went by fast, and Bryan would not have wanted it any other way. After graduating in 2006, the nation was at war, and Bryan wanted to do his part as an Airborne Ranger and infantry officer. Bryan and Jenni quickly married, but the demands of the military sending him to serve in Operation Iraqi Freedom postponed their ceremony until 2010. By that time, Bryan had accumulated a chest full of medals and awards after making it through the Army’s most demanding training and successfully leading troops in combat. After his wedding, he reflected on his service and made it known that taking Jenni to Hawaii for a future military assignment was a priority.
Bryan quickly rose up through the ranks and eventually did take Jenni to Hawaii, where he was stationed at Schofield Barracks as a brigade S-3 operations officer. Bryan and Jenni were accompanied by their four children: Roen, Maddox, Logan, and Patton. Bryan thought of his children as his greatest accomplishment in life and beamed with pride when he talked about them. Although his ambition and focus remained, those who knew him well could see that he was a changed man. His family made him more content than ever before. The soldiers and leaders of Schofield Barracks were eager to have Bryan come back to Hawaii after the completion of his assignment. He was selected to command 1st Battalion, 27th Infantry Regiment, and the Herzog family was preparing to return when tragedy unexpectedly and sadly struck. Bryan died preparing for command while training at Fort Leavenworth, KS.
Bryan left a legacy that extends far beyond his 39 years of life. He accomplished far more in those years than most could imagine. Although his passing brought so much sadness, all those who knew and loved him will cherish memories of how he impacted the lives of everyone around him. Bryan was a husband, father, patriot, and a true friend.
— Tad Hickman, Shane Hogan, and Adam Vance: West Point Classmates, Fellow Veterans, and Friends