Steven Michael Briese

CAPT Steven M. Briese, U.S. Navy, was a California native. He was born in Fontana and graduated from Yucaipa High School in 1981. He graduated from the University of Redlands in 1984 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science and a minor in British Literature. He attended Officer Candidate School in Newport, Rhode Island and was commissioned in October 1984 as a Cryptologist. In addition to his time as a “Crypie,” Steven worked for 28 years at Northrup Grumman as a project manager amongst many other roles. He also received master’s degrees from The Naval War College and George Mason University.

After completing Cryptologic training at Naval Technical Training Center, Corry Station, Pensacola, Florida, CAPT Briese reported for his first assignment at Naval Security Group Activity, Skaggs Island, California. CAPT Briese served as TACINTEL Division Officer, Signals Security Officer, and Assistant Communications Department Head. On this assignment he met his wife, Susan, and they had their first date on board the USS CARL VINSON (CVN-70). They met in Northern California where he offered to help her carry in her groceries. She cooked him dinner and he just never left! They were married on July 11th, 1987, in the Napa Valley. The Navy relocated them to Virginia in 1988 and they had to drive across an ice storm in Texas to make it here! Steven might say the worst part was being “accidentally” fed Fancy Feast cat food on a Triscuit.

Upon reaching Virginia, CAPT Briese reported to Naval Security Group Headquarters and served as the Computer Systems Test Lead for several Navy computer systems. In 1991, he reported onboard the USS FORRESTAL (CV-59), as the Ships' Signal Exploitation Division Officer, and completed a deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. This time on the Forrestal was his favorite time on ship as he would lead the third shift by motivating his men with fresh donuts, he would get the cooks to make extra of just for his crew. He also continued his Forrestal memories by serving as the USS Forrestal Association President for the last several years. He loved his Thursday night meetings as the young guy and was looking forward to their annual reunion this Fall.

CAPT Briese then reported to the Naval Security Group Detachment, Washington DC, at the Naval Research Laboratory. This assignment marked CAPT Briese's entry into the world of satellite acquisition and operations. In March 1995, CAPT Briese separated from Active duty and affiliated with the Naval Reserve. He served 5 years with the Space and Naval Warfare Systems Command working on several satellite acquisitions. In 2000, CAPT Briese reported to the Naval Space Command in Dahlgren, VA serving as SATCOM Project Officer, Operations Officer, and Executive Officer, including sea time on 10 ships. In 2006, CAPT Briese reported to US STRATEGIC COMMAND in Omaha, Nebraska, where he served as Operations Team Chief. In 2008, Captain Briese reported for his second tour at the Naval Research Laboratory, continuing his work on satellites and also serving as Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations for the Office of Naval Research - Reserve Component.

In 2011, CAPT Briese began his final assignment at the Office of Naval Research - Global and served as the International Focus Area Coordinator. CAPT Briese is designated as an Information Dominance Warfare Officer. His awards include: the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Navy Commendation Medal (three awards), the Navy Achievement Medal (four awards), the National Defense Service Medal, the South West Asia Service Medal, the Global War On Terrorism Service Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, and numerous unit and campaign awards. Throughout his career, he was known for his integrity and kindness. Steven was an empathetic, caring leader who always helped those around him and looked out for their well-being. He truly was a "Sailor's Sailor." Steven demonstrated a quiet competence, steadfastness, and devotion that drew others to him as a true leader. Steven accepted any challenge and was regarded as a professional who took work seriously but did not take himself too seriously.

Steven was always active and found joy in being outside, particularly with his family, whether that was being on a family hike or working outside in the garden, mowing the lawn or cleaning the pond. In his youth, Steven was always playing a sport whether it was baseball, football, soccer, or basketball and loved to share stories of these exploits. He found his stride in sports as an avid and competitive cyclist even beating eventual Tour de France winner Greg LeMond. Steven loved Dodgers and Nationals baseball - whether listening to a game on the radio, watching a game in the ballpark, or just chatting baseball with his grandfather as a child or his family as an adult. He loved sporting events in general and was a season ticket holder for Navy Football, frequently went to Camden Yards and Nats Park (even at RFK) and supported the MSU Spartans as his wife and daughter’s team in attending or purchasing many tickets to MSU sporting events. He also loved minor league baseball and passed on a love of all these athletic passions to his daughter, Taylor C. Briese.

Steven was a devoted husband, father, son, and friend. He had a warm smile and a contagious laughter, and relished quality time with his loved ones. Steven always saw the good in others. This was the basis of his devout faith that included his reading the bible every morning. He was about to complete his 7th complete reading of the Bible. He was faithful, gracious, and exuded positivity in every facet of his life. Steven was a shining light who made a profound difference in the lives of many.

Steven is survived by his wife of 36 years, Susan Corrine Briese; daughter, Taylor Chaumont Briese; Stepmother Eileen Briese, Sisters Debbie, and Denise Briese; Uncle Bob and Aunt Sue Briese and many in-laws, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Steven was loved by many who will forever miss his earthly presence.

A memorial service and Eucharist will be held at The Falls Church Episcopal, on Saturday June 1, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. The burial at Arlington National Cemetery will be held at a future date. A visitation will occur from 4-8pm at Murphy’s Funeral Home in Falls Church on 5/31. Online condolences may be offered to the family at https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/falls-church-va/steven-bries11820992#remembering

Please join Steven's celebration of life livestream on June 1, 2024, at 2pm

https://youtube.com/live/1ZVD12ed8NM?feature=share

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Children’s Incorporated (PO Box 72848, North Chesterfield, VA 23235) in memory of Steven Briese and to continue his sponsorship of a child. Donations may also be made to the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society at Make a Difference. Donate Today (nmcrs.org) or by mail in memory of CAPT Steven M. Briese at NMCRS, 875 N Randolph St, Suite 225, Arlington, VA 22203.