Donovan “Bull” Briley
Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: North Little Rock, AR
Branch of Service: United States Army
Rank: Chief Warrant Officer 3
Chief Warrant Officer Donovan “Bull” Briley joined the Arkansas Army National Guard in 1980. In 1983, he was granted approval to become an Arkansas Army Reservist. He joined the 374th Medical Detachment Unit. Donovan went on Active Duty in 1987 and was selected to join the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, the “Night Stalkers,” where he deployed multiple times. Briley was killed when the Black Hawk helicopter he was copiloting was shot down over Mogadishu, Somalia.
Briley was an outstanding officer with unlimited potential. He was absolutely dedicated to the mission and could be counted on to complete any task. He was extremely loyal and took every responsibility to heart. Ft. Campbell’s Nightstalker Compound named the Fitness Center in honor of Donovan–The Briley Hall. There is also a road named after him outside of Camp Robinson’s front gate–Donovan Briley Boulevard. There was also a book and a movie made pertaining to The Battle of Mogadishu–“Blackhawk Down.”
“Our family is approaching the 30-year mark of honoring Donovan, missing Donovan, and sharing Donovan’s legacy. My daughter and I are always proud and honored to speak his name, share his stories, and show his face! Donovan was a warrior and lived life to the fullest,” recalled wife, Sharri Briley.
Age: 33
Date of Death: October 03, 1993