Brian joined the Canadian Forces in 1977 and spent 23 years supporting various military aircraft as an avionics technician in several different and diverse capacities.  

In 1992, Brian was commissioned from the ranks as an aerospace engineering officer, later specializing in operational flight test activities.  

While posted to Cold Lake, AB in 1999, Brian showed his true character by risking his own life when he rescued a total stranger by pulling him out of a burning car. He would later receive the Governor General's Medal of Bravery for his actions.

In 2000, Brian retired from the CF and moved his family back to the Maritimes where he began work as a defence contractor in support of the CP140 Aurora.

He continued to do so until engaged in his battle against diffuse B-cell lymphoma starting in October 2019.