GOSHEN – Thomas Kennedy was one of 11 cousins on Rory Brady’s mother’s side of the family.
Because they were close in age, the two became especially close, sharing a passion for sports and a deep love of family. Thomas was Rory’s hero and remains so, even though he is gone.
Maj. Thomas Kennedy, an Army officer, was killed in a suicide attack on August 8, 2012, in Kunar Province, Afghanistan. He was 35. Kennedy was a New City native and a West Point graduate.
Brady and his family have kept Kennedy’s memory alive through The TK Foundation and will host a World Cup watch party for the U.S. men’s national team’s opener at 9 p.m. on Friday at Delancey’s in Goshen to raise awareness about the organization.
“Thomas was the ultimate leader, someone who was fearless,” said Brady, a Goshen lawyer. “He was also compassionate and always raised the morale of everyone around him. Thomas has inspired me to do so much that I have accomplished in my life. He is someone who lived his life the right way, and we are just trying to keep his legacy alive.”
The TK Foundation was founded to honor the sacrifice of fallen heroes by providing unwavering support, resources, and a lasting community for the families they leave behind, the Gold Star families of military and first responders. Brady picked a World Cup event because he is a big soccer fan, and Delancey’s is a popular hometown restaurant.
Kennedy was one of four Americans killed, along with an Afghan civilian, in a suicide attack carried out by an insurgent. The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack. Kennedy previously served two tours in Iraq. His awards and service medals include the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Presidential Unit Citation, and the Valorous Unit Award. He was awarded a Bronze Star Medal and Purple Heart posthumously.
The watch party will feature a cash bar. Brady said anyone who follows The TK Foundation on Facebook will receive a free beer.
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