An apparatus for modifying engine valve lift to produce an engine valve event in an internal combustion engine comprises actuation device for operating at least one exhaust valve, and control device for moving the actuation device between its inoperative position and operative position. In the inoperative position, the actuation device is disengaged from the at least one exhaust valve, and in the operative position, the actuation device holds open the at least one exhaust valve to produce the modified engine valve lift for the engine valve event, which includes an engine braking event. The actuation device includes a motion limiting apparatus for controlling movement of the actuation device. The actuation device can be integrated into a valve bridge and other valve train components, such as a rocker arm, wherein a plunger is slidably disposed between the inoperative position and the operative position.