Brendan J. Scallon

United States Army Sergeant Brendan J. Scallon passed away on February 18, 2015, due to complications from injuries sustained while in the line of duty.

Scallon was born in Chicago, Illinois, and raised in the North West suburbs of Palatine, Illinois, in a traditional Irish Catholic, working-class family. As the youngest child, he developed a unique connection with his older sibling, who had moved out by the time he reached his teenage years. From an early age, Scallon displayed a passion for computers, maps, and exploring the world. He also shared a love of singing with his mother and often engaged in spirited debates about current events with his father, reflecting his curiosity and vibrant intellect. After graduating from St. Viator Preparatory High School, Scallon pursued higher education at the University of Illinois, where he earned dual degrees in Electrical Engineering and Computer Information System. His family fondly remembers hush pride in this accomplishment, a reflection of his unwavering dedication and sharp intellect. Scallon went on to build a successful career, working with esteemed organizations such as Motorola, Allstate, and Merchant card services in the Chicago suburbs. Scallon met his wife, Leronica, during a chance encounter on the Chicago public transit system. She was lost on an unfamiliar route, and Scallon stepped in to help. What began as a simple act of kindness blossomed into a deep friendship and grew into a beautiful relationship that would change both their lives forever. For Scallon, the core pillars of his life were faith, his work, and his family. He remained deeply rooted in his Christian Religion faith, which guided him through every aspect of his life. His dedication to family was reflected in his love for his wife, Leronica, and their children, always ensuring they were taken care of.

Scallon’s dedication to service was deeply rooted in his family history. Raised among relatives who had served in various wars, it was no surprise that following the tragic events of September 11, 2001, he felt compelled to defend his country. Shortly after, Scallon enlisted in the US Army in Chicago. He loved being part of a team, thriving in the structure and discipline the Army offered. Scallon’s greatest pride was serving as Platoon Leader, where he cherished looking after his soldiers and ensuring their safety. Throughout his military career, Scallon was stationed at several important US Army bases, including Fort Leonard Wood, where he began his training, Fort Carson, CO, and Fort Arlington, IL, before returning to Fort Leonard Wood. His commitment to service was unwavering, and his work ethic stood as an example to his fellow soldiers. During this time in service, Scallon completed three tours in Iraq. While on deployment, he was struck by an IED, and sustained a traumatic brain injury. He continued to serve with determination, however, he later passed away from the severity of his injuries. After his passing, Scallon was buried with full military honors at the National Cemetery, a final tribute to the sacrifices he made for his country.

Leronica and their children, Patience, Patrick and Preston, reside on a small farm where they have created a special area called Soldier’s Sanctuary. This peaceful space, dedicated to Scallon’s memory, features a medicinal garden where visitors can come to reflect and honor not only his legacy but also the sacrifices of countless others who gave their lives in service to their country. In honor of his memory, Leronica, along with their children, continue to carry on Scallon’s legacy by writing Valentine’s Day cards for homeless individuals and putting together car packages. She is grateful to Tunnel to Towers for helping alleviate the financial burden by paying off their mortgage. As she watches their children grow, she is excited to see them follow their own paths to success. She’s thrilled to see her kids mirror the traits of their late father, while also embracing their own journey and carving out their unique paths in life. Scallon’s legacy of service, faith, and family endures through those who loved him.

United States Army Sergeant Brendan J. Scallon is survived by his wife, Leronica, and their three children: Patience, Patrick, and Preston.

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has paid off the mortgage of the Scallon family home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.