Josh was a beloved son to his parents, Kathy and Paul; a loved brother by his siblings, Justin, Jason, and Melissa; a loving uncle to his niece, Kylie; a wonderful husband to his wife, Jen; a caring father to his stepson, Jordan; and a great friend to everyone who was lucky enough to know him.

Melissa, Josh, Jason, and Justin Bredlau

Raised in a Navy family, Josh moved around, spending time in Maine, Illinois and Virginia, where he ended up going to high school and received his diploma in Spring 2007. At this time, Josh enlisted in the United States Army to be a 68W - Combat Medic. He always wanted to help people and was aspiring to be a doctor. Josh did a combat tour in Iraq from January 11, 2008 to December 8, 2008, with the 3rd Infantry Division from Fort Stewart, Georgia. During that time, he was promoted to the rank of Specialist and was awarded the Combat Medic Badge for his actions on the battlefield.

Joshua In Iraq

Upon returning from Iraq, Josh attended and graduated from Air Assault School and became Combatives Level 1 certified. During the summer of 2009, Josh re-enlisted to go to Fort Myer in Arlington, Virginia.

Joshua In Air Assault Training

Josh's military awards and decorations include the Army Commendation Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

A service is being held for Joshua, family, and friends at 4 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 30, 2009, at Bethlehem United Methodist Church, 2101 Mark Pine Road, Hayes. He will be laid to rest by a full military honors burial service at 1 p.m. Tuesday, September 8, 2009, in Arlington National Cemetery.

In Josh's memory donations may be sent to Abingdon Volunteer Fire and Rescue, P. O. Box 9, Bena, Virginia 23018.