Whereas Brandon Gaede was a brave law enforcement officer who sacrificed his life to keep his local Kansas community safe;

Whereas Brandon Gaede was born to Eric Gaede and Dena Britton in 1995 in Colby, Kansas;

Whereas Brandon Gaede attended Colby High School, where he excelled as a student-athlete, finding success in football, wrestling, and track;

Whereas, immediately following his graduation from high school, Mr. Gaede entered a career of service as a law enforcement officer, driven by his unwavering dedication to protecting others;

Whereas Brandon Gaede began as a correctional officer with the Thomas County Sheriff’s Office, while simultaneously pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice at Colby Community College;

Whereas, after earning his associate of science degree, Brandon Gaede began working as a sheriff’s deputy in Phillips County, where his leadership and commitment quickly set him apart;

Whereas Brandon Gaede attended and graduated from the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center, where he served as president of the 247th basic training class, a testament to the respect he earned among his peers;

Whereas Brandon Gaede quickly rose through the ranks of the Phillips County Sheriff’s Office, earning a promotion to sergeant in 2023 and to undersheriff a year later;

Whereas, during this time, he became a loving husband to Karlye Stephen and a father to 3 beautiful children, Axel, Otto, and Emilie;

Whereas, on June 27, 2025, Brandon Gaede lost his life in the line of duty, while attempting to take a suspect into custody;

Whereas Brandon Gaede was and remains a true American hero whose courage, character, and unwavering commitment to others have left an indelible mark; and

Whereas Mr. Gaede's legacy will continue to inspire his family, community, and a grateful nation: Now, therefore, be it