Sorry guys. I got it working. I'm just really really stupid. The function that was doing the analogWrite was assuming a color value from zero to 1024. Since I was calling it with 255 it was mapping it down to 127 or there abouts.
Like I said, stupid mistake. A software mistake no less. I'm a newb when it comes to the electronics but I've been programming for a living for 30+ years. I should have figured that one out quicker.
Sorry for wasting peoples time but I really do appreciate the help. I'm impressed that you guys responded so quickly! I was going to try and quietly delete the post to save the embarrassment but you guys were too quick!