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Kevin and Alma Brady with live painter Kristen Drinkard during Battleship Texas Celebratory Dinner.

Kevin Brady’s deep-seated passion for supporting the USS Texas restoration is rooted in his family’s immigrant story and his appreciation for the sacrifices that built and sustain American freedom.

Kevin’s mother and her family immigrated to the United States as refugees after World War II, having fled Lithuania amidst the destruction of war. They found refuge in Germany before eventually being sponsored to America by the Lutheran Church and a candy company. His grandfather, a candy maker by trade, was compelled to enlist in the German Army, eventually becoming a POW under Russian captivity. Kevin emphasizes that his grandfather held no allegiance to the atrocities committed by Hitler and instead became part of the American culture that rose to defeat that tyranny.

Kevin’s family continued their legacy of service in the United States. His uncle, after serving in the U.S. Army, gained citizenship and dedicated himself to military and law enforcement roles. His brother, who retired as a colonel in the Marine Corps, further cemented the family’s contribution to the nation’s defense.

Though Kevin himself hasn’t worn the uniform, he has achieved success through hard work, growing businesses that exemplify the American Dream. He sees his freedom to pursue these dreams as a privilege guaranteed by the men and women who serve. Kevin’s commitment to honoring this legacy extends to his own family. He is married to an immigrant, and together they strive to instill these values in their two young children.

For the Brady family, the USS Texas is more than a historic battleship; it is a symbol of freedom, resilience, and the American way of life. Its preservation serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by generations of Americans. Kevin’s support for the USS Texas restoration is fueled by a belief that remembering and honoring these sacrifices is essential, and he hopes others will join him in contributing to this lasting legacy. Together, he believes we can ensure the Texas stands as a beacon of freedom and as a tribute to those who have defended it.