Silk graduated from Orono High School in 2003.  He played on the Orono High School football team and was on the track team.  He was a transfer student from Calais, Maine.  He has two brothers who are serving in the military with the Maine Air National Guard's 101st Air Refueling Wing.  His father also served with the 101st Airborne Division.  His hobbies were hunting, shooting, the Patriots, the Red Sox, music, and motorcycles.

Brandon was a member of Company C, 101st Aviation Battalion, 101st Airborne Division.  His awards and decorations include Bronze Star, Air Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Joint Meritorious Unit Award, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Iraqi Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Non-Commissioned Officers Professional Development Ribbon, Combat Action Badge, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and NATO Medal.

He was on his fourth overseas tour.  He was a Blackhawk helicopter Crew Chief.  He leaves behind a wife and step-son.