Community honors Staunton native Lt. Col. Brandon Shah with memorial marker

STAUNTON, Va. (WHSV) - Community members gathered at the old Augusta County Courthouse to remember the life and legacy of one of Staunton’s homegrown heroes, Lt. Col. Brandon Shah, who was killed in a shooting at Old Dominion University in March.

Family members said the day of remembrance touched them deeply.

“Oh it felt great. I felt loved and our whole family felt loved by the community. It was such a turnout and just everything, just it’s so wonderful and beautiful, God is good,” said Judith Jenkins.

Shah’s sister, Mimi Jenkins, also shared how much the day meant to her.

“I feel very honored. I feel love from the community. I’m incredibly thankful to be able to be a part of it, as I recently just moved back down here. So I really appreciate them doing that for my brother, as he really loved growing up here,” she said.

A new marker of recognition was also unveiled outside the courthouse to remember Lt. Col. Shah and his service.

“It’s such a joy. My son, he was an honorable guy and he was a hero. He laid down his life for his cadets. So I was so glad the community saw that and honored him,” Judith Jenkins said.

As the community remembers Lt. Col. Shah’s life, the family says they often reflect on the good times and lasting memories they share.

“I would say probably the most favorite memory is always racing each other down Montgomery Hall Park on our bikes, trying to go on the dirt bike trails, I don’t think that’s no longer there, but that was probably my favorite part. We always raced with my grandfather and cousins,” Mimi Jenkins said.

Seven months after the shooting, the family says they are now moving forward and are hoping the world will continue to remember the life and legacy of Lt. Col. Shah and his impact on others.

“I just want them to always remember his name and even the soldiers, cadets or any soldiers out there, you know, just give it your all. You know, he put his all into it and he lived the life that he wanted,” Judith Jenkins said.