Brothers Brian and Travers Brake were given a hero’s welcome this past week as they returned from battle in Iraq.

The men and women at the Danville Volunteer Fire Department had something to celebrate Jan. 25 as they welcomed back Danville resident Brian Blake and his brother, Travers Brake.

Both men recently returned from Iraq, where they served as fellow cavalry scout platoon sergeants in the 1st of the 150th Armored Reconnaissance Squadron, 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team.

According to the 366th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment, the Brake brothers simultaneously became the highest-ranking non-commissioned officers within their respective platoons and within two weeks of each other, they were assigned to a platoon sergeant position.

The Brake brothers were first deployed to Iraq in 2004. This makes the brothers second deployment. Unlike their first deployment, this time around the men are not only in the same squadron, they also have the opportunity to see one another each day.

“The brothers like competing with each other. They recently competed in a ‘Top Gun’ competition in which M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle crews compete for the title of best team in the squadron. Travers’ team earned the honor, besting 16 other Bradley crews, including Brian’s team,” Sgt. Samantha Beuterbaugh, with the 366th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment writes.

The two brothers-in-arms are continuing a legacy of family members who have served in the military. A father, two uncles, both grandfathers, and great uncles, all have preceded the men in battle.

Travers, who resides in Elkins, W.Va., was able to attend the welcome home celebration with his brother Brian, this past week at the Danville Volunteer Fire Department.

A small, but cheerful crowd of well-wishers, family and friends presented the men with a plaque and their heart-felt thanks.

Photos of the event are posted on the Danville Volunteer Fire Department’s web site, along with other photos of Brian Brake in Iraq. On photo in particular shows the Brake brothers holding a sign of the Danville Volunteer Fire Department.

This is because Brian Brake has a special connection with the Department, as Brake is himself a volunteer fire fighter. In addition, when the opportunity arises, Brian volunteers his time coaching Little League football and youth soccer.

His brother, Travers, reportedly also has a passion for volunteerism. “Travers participates in a therapeutic camping program for troubled and at-risk teens with trips that can sometimes last as long as 30 days.”