Air Force Veteran Brandi McBride has lived a life dedicated to service, leadership, resilience — and today, advocacy. At 48, she continues to inspire others while facing metastatic breast cancer with unmistakable grit and grace.
Brandi’s military story began with a dream of becoming a pilot. While attending aviation courses at Baylor University in Texas, she discovered the ROTC program and fell in love with the leadership, camaraderie, and purpose found in the U.S. Air Force.
She was just 21 when she began fulfilling the sacred duty of the Honor Guard, presenting flags to the families of fallen service members.
She later advanced to work in mortuary affairs, eventually deploying overseas. In 2005, during Operation Iraqi Freedom, Brandi served as a Combat Support Commander, leading food service, morale, and mortuary services in Iraq.
“We would be in the middle of a bingo tournament with half the base boosting spirits — when suddenly a call would come in that someone had been killed in action,” she shared. “We had to switch instantly, coordinating the transfer of remains… and then return to uplift the troops again. It was incredibly heavy.”
Even those who haven’t held combat role, she reminds us:
“Every role has a purpose. You’re still part of the mission.”
After six months in Iraq, she was stationed in Germany, where she started her family. Eventually, life’s journey brought Brandi, her husband at the time, and their first daughter to Michigan.
Returning to civilian life highlighted a new challenge: “How do you find purpose again? How do you relate to everyday problems after everything you’ve seen?”
Determined to help other veterans transition successfully, Brandi dedicated herself to community support. Over the years, she founded Team RWB Grand Rapids Chapter (2014) — a leading health & wellness community for veterans. She co-chaired the West Michigan Veterans Coalition for 11 years – advocating for access to jobs, housing, and healthcare resources. Connecting hundreds of veterans with belonging and purpose.
After a difficult divorce in 2017, she attended Boulder Crest retreats, where she discovered a framework for Posttraumatic Growth (PTG), turning trauma into strength.
“I met a new family there — we shared our vulnerabilities and helped each other thrive. It changed me.”
In 2009, Brandi was diagnosed with breast cancer and celebrated survivor status after treatment. But in 2020, she received life-altering news: metastatic breast cancer in her lymph nodes, bones, and brain.
Investigations into her exposure overseas revealed a connection to burn pits; toxic smoke exposure now included in the PACT Act.
Despite the physical challenges, Brandi’s spirit remains unshakable.
“Keep the focus on the journey, not the destination. Be as present as possible, any day can change.”
Brandi calls her current care team at The Cancer & Hematology Centers an extension of her family.
“When I come to CHC, it’s a party. I’ve made so many friends. My nurses even helped discover my epilepsy — something I’d unknowingly lived with for 13 years.”
Brandi continues to transform pain into purpose. She owns a landscaping business that turns yards into peaceful retreats. She showcased a veterans garden exhibit for ArtPrize 2024, is currently writing a book, and is finding ways to show her children every day what perseverance looks like.
Home is her sanctuary, where she enjoys life with husband Bill, their three daughters — Olivia, Lilly, and Ella, and a lively crew of pets (dogs, gecko, snake, bird, bunny, and even a rat).
What the Flag Means
When Brandi sees the American flag, she doesn’t think of symbolism, she remembers reality. “To me, I see the flag covering a casket. I can go right back to where I was in those days.”
Her service and sacrifice continues long after returning from war. Brandi encourages anyone who has served or loves someone who has, to seek connection and support.
If you or someone you know would like to explore veteran wellness and outreach resources, visit: Team RWB, West Michigan Veterans Coalition (WMVC), Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency (MVAA)
This Veterans Day
We honor Captain Brandi McBride for her courage on the battlefield, her advocacy at home, and her unwavering spirit through every chapter of life. Thank you for your service, Brandi. We are honored to walk this journey with you.
