Russell’s story
A life remembered.
A name carried forward.
SPC. Russell E. Madden of Bellevue, Kentucky.
Russell E. Madden
More than a name on a memorial.
For the people who knew Russell, his name brings back a son, a brother, a father, a friend. For Bellevue, it brings back one of its own.
Russell graduated from Bellevue High School in 2000. Gilligan Field was part of his life, from Friday night football to track meets. His family continues to support the school and the students who follow in his footsteps.
He served in the United States Army with the 1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment, 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team. On June 23, 2010, he was killed in action in Afghanistan.
The SPC. Russell E. Madden Memorial Fund was created in his memory. Its work brings remembrance into everyday community life: opportunities for young people, help for neighbors, and care for the places that honor our fallen heroes.
1st Squadron, 91st Cavalry Regiment · 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team
The story of Big Red
A promise kept.
Russell was twelve when his father brought home the red Ford pickup that became the family’s everyday truck. It carried them to football practices, on fishing trips, and through years of family life. Russell and his friends called it Big Red.
Before Russell deployed, his father promised him the keys when he returned. After Russell’s death, the family kept that promise in another way. With help from Rick and Mary at Florence Autobody and Frame, they restored Big Red as a tribute to him.
On March 23, 2013, Russell’s name was added to the National 173rd Airborne Memorial at Fort Benning. His father traveled there to read his name on his birthday.
There’s a place for you here.
A question, an idea, or a little time to lend. We’d be glad to hear from you.
Keep his memory working for our neighbors.
Your gift supports young people, community programs, and the places that remember our fallen heroes.