Westport Firefighter James "Doc" Branson Returns from Active Military Duty

WESTPORT, CT — Westport Firefighter James "Doc" Branson recently returned from a 375-day deployment to the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan with the United States Marines, and the Westport Fire Department celebrated his return by taking down the "Blue Star Flag" which flew at Westport Fire Headquarters during his time overseas.

Branson, who is a Navy Corpsman worked as a medic for the Marines, and served as an advisor with Security Cooperation Team-Jordan.

He was also a medical advisor to the Jordanian Armed Forces helping train some of the first tactical medics in the Jordanian Armed Forces.

James returned to duty at the Westport department this week. "I am excited and thankful to be home with my wife and family, which includes my brothers and sisters at the Westport Fire Department."

Added Westport Fire Chief Andrew Kingsbury, "Looking up and seeing that flag reminded us of James on a daily basis and of the sacrifices he was making for us all. We are blessed to have him home again."

The Service flag, also called the Blue Star Flag, is an official banner authorized by the Department of Defense for display by families who have members serving in the Armed Forces during any period of war or hostilities the United States may be engaged in, according to the Westport department.

The Service flag may also be displayed by an organization to honor the members of that organization serving during a period of war or hostilities. Each blue star on the flag represents a service member in active duty.

Since 2001 the Westport Fire Department has had six members serve on active military duty. Lowering the flag marks a significant passage of time for the department.

Photo credit: Westport Fire Department

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