A Tribute to a Son of Marshall
Southeast of Old Main, between one of Marshall University’s most historic buildings and the Memorial Student Center, stands a Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea) dedicated to the memory of SPC Brian “Scotty” Ulbrich.
A stone marker at the base of the tree bears the simple inscription:
In loving memory of
SPC Brian “Scotty” Ulbrich
Son of Marshall forever
1981-2005
The memorial tree serves as a lasting tribute to a Marshall student, soldier, and proud supporter of the university whose life was cut short while serving his country.
A Marshall Student and Future Public Servant
Brian Scott Ulbrich graduated from Scott High School in 1999 and enrolled at Marshall University, where he studied criminal justice. According to family members, he hoped to pursue a career as an FBI agent and was only one semester away from graduation when he chose a different path and enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2004.
His connection to Marshall ran deep. Family members recalled that he was an enthusiastic supporter of the university from a young age and remained devoted to Marshall throughout his time as a student.
Service in Iraq
After completing training, Ulbrich joined a unit based at Fort Carson, Colorado, and deployed to Iraq in March 2005.
According to Associated Press reports, he served as a lookout for roadside bombs and insurgent activity. He was killed in Baghdad in June 2005 when a roadside bomb struck his Humvee.
Family members remembered him for his determination, optimism, and willingness to step forward when challenges arose. One story recalled how his experience operating heavy equipment at a Boone County coal mine helped his unit cross an apparently impassable canal after he confidently climbed aboard a nearby bulldozer and created a path forward.
A Degree Awarded in His Honor
On Veterans Day 2005, Marshall University awarded Ulbrich a posthumous bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. The degree recognized the academic work he had completed before leaving campus for military service.
During the ceremony, family members reflected on both his love of Marshall University and his dedication to serving his country. At the same time, the university honored his memory through the dedication of a memorial tree on campus.
A Living Memorial
The Yellowwood planted in Ulbrich’s memory creates a lasting connection between his story and the university he loved. Located along a prominent campus walkway, the tree continues to grow alongside generations of Marshall students.
Learn more about YellowwoodLike many memorial trees in the Marshall University Arboretum, the Ulbrich Memorial Tree serves as both a place of remembrance and a living part of the campus landscape. Its presence reminds visitors that the arboretum preserves not only trees and landscapes, but also the stories of the people connected to them.
The Memorial Tree Today
Today, the Brian “Scotty” Ulbrich Memorial Tree stands between Old Main and the Memorial Student Center, linking two of the university’s most important gathering places. Visitors who stop to read the marker encounter the story of a student whose commitment to Marshall University and service to his country continue to be remembered on campus.
As the Yellowwood matures, it remains a living tribute to a member of the Marshall family whose legacy endures.
Campus Location
Visitors can find the Brian “Scotty” Ulbrich Memorial Tree between Old Main and the Memorial Student Center near the Omicron Delta Kappa Circle. The map below highlights its location. Click on the map to open a larger version.
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Quick Facts
Name: Brian “Scotty” Ulbrich Memorial Tree
Species: Yellowwood (Cladrastis kentukea)
Location: Southeast of Old Main, between Old Main and the Memorial Student Center
Honoree: SPC Brian “Scotty” Ulbrich (1981-2005)
Dedication Inscription: “In loving memory of SPC Brian ‘Scotty’ Ulbrich, Son of Marshall forever, 1981-2005”
Memorial Type: Tree and stone marker