Northborough – Specialist Brian K. Arsenault, 28, Bronze Star recipient, was valiantly killed in action while serving with Company B, 1st Battalion 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division in Ghazni, Afghanistan, Thursday, Sept. 4, 2014.
Brian is survived by his loving parents, Daniel W. and Leslie (Sebastian) Arsenault, and his beloved sister, Lindsey Beth Arsenault, all of Northborough. He also leaves many aunts, uncles, cousins, and extended family, which include a large group of close friends, many since preschool.
Brian excelled as an athlete playing varsity hockey all four years at Algonquin Regional High School. He graduated from there in 2004. Brian later earned his Associate's Degree from Quinsigamond Community College.
In his youth, Brian loved playing pond hockey with family and friends. He also enjoyed sharing time with his buddies in the Brighton section of Boston. He loved exploring and hiking trails/mountains in state parks and spending many quiet hours reading, bird watching, and observing nature.
He was a member of Gold's Gym in Westborough, where he did weight training and cross training. He also loved the ocean. He frequently vacationed on Cape Cod and Wells Beach, Maine. His other interests included his love of music, dance, and singing. His contagious smile was shared by everyone.
Brian completed U.S. Army Basic Training and Infantry School at Fort Benning, Georgia, in 2011. He graduated from Airborne School at Ft. Benning and was then assigned to his current unit in 2012. He has been awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Combat Infantry Badge, National Service Medal, Afghanistan Service Medal, and numerous others.
Calling hours will be held Monday, Sept. 15, from 3-8 p.m., in St. Rose of Lima Church, 244 West Main St., Northborough. His funeral Mass of Resurrection will be held Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 10 a.m., in St. Rose of Lima Church. Burial with full military honors will follow in Howard Street Cemetery of Northborough.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.
For the online guestbook or directions, visit www.haysfuneralhome.com.