Lt. Col Brian Birdwell, Sole Survivor (directorate area) during 9/11 Pentagon attack

Best Individual (2004)

Winner: Adam Kissiah, Jr.
Received by: Adam Kissiah, Jr.

About Brian and Mel Birdwell
Lt. Col. (Ret.) Brian Birdwell and his wife, Mel, are both survivors of the terrorists' attacks on September 11, 2001. After hijacked American Airlines Flight 77 collided into the Pentagon, Brian was thrown to the ground and engulfed in flames. Of the burns that consumed 60 percent of his body, nearly half were third degree. While Brian was fighting for his life and undergoing 30+ surgeries, intensive skin grafts and unbearably painful burn treatments, Mel was fighting to maintain the couple's faith and their family. Because of their devotion to God and to each other, Brian and Mel, along with their son, remained solid in their spiritual convictions and integrity throughout this incredibly difficult ordeal. Together, they communicate a compelling message of enduring hope, unwavering faith, undying patriotism, and unconditional love.