AOTC #78 Memorial for HM3 Benjamin Castiglione –Posted

I was originally going to be on that patrol with Ben, I'm a Corpsman who was with 2nd LAR in August and September and instead of going on that patrol I was sent back with Motor-T to convoy up north and another Corpsman (I will not mention names for the sake of privacy) went in my place. The Corpsman who went in my place was badly wounded but survived. When I got to Camp Leatherneck I was pulled aside by my Senior Chief and was told what happened. I had to go break the news to the Marines on the convoy. It was a terrible terrible day. My heart goes out to Ben's family and to the families of LCpl Baltazar and LCpl Fowlkes who died with Ben, may God comfort them. -HM2 Baker.

My names Henry Machado, Ben was one of my best friends, I found out about his passing a month later. i feel terrible. Ben and I met in corps school and spent alot of time together. i remember when we both passed the final test in corps school we went to get the caduceus tattoo together. Ben ALWAYS had my back whether it be helping me study or pulling me away from an argument and keeping me out of trouble. i cant count the times stuck his neck out for me. Ben and i would joke around and he would say "you better pray you get stationed with me so i can keep you out of trouble" so when we went to get our orders we tried to go to Lejeune together but i was sent to 29 palms. The day he graduated from corps school (a week before me) he called me to meet his family and i was on the other side of base and tried to get there in time but didn't make it. I have him to thank for passing corps school. i got a phone call from Ben before he deployed and told me all about his deployment prior and how he was planning on becoming a physicians assistant. We also agreed we would get together when he got back and have a beer. He really was a GREAT corpsman and put his whole heart into his job. I'm sure ill never meet anyone with as much determination and courage as Ben had and Ill always remember him and thank him for all he did for his COUNTRY, and myself. I am soo sorry for your families loss. and my prayers are with you. If there is anything i can do for your family please let me know, my email is Henryjmachado@gmail.com and phone is (908)361-0998

Such a showing of love and support at Ben's "Celebration" yesterday! Ben touched many people in the short time he was with us. I will be forever in awe of his bravery and ultimate sacrifice. I am proud to have known Ben and grateful to be a part of his family. He will be forever with us in our hearts and minds.
A Knifehand Salute to you!

I went through Field Med with Ben, and didn't believe it when I heard it. He was a great corpsman and I could only wish I can do our job as well as he did!

Carrie,
We are thinking so much about you....your family loves you and is grieving with you.

Carrie, I have no words that can express my feelings for you loss. Just know that you have been in my every thought and prayer since I heard the news. Although I never met Ben I feel like I knew him because of how proud of him you are and talked and showed his pictures. He was definitely an outstanding young man and will not be forgotten. My family and I thank Ben for his ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. May God provide you the strength and comfort and may you lean on him for all the support you need.

Carrie, words cannot tell you how sorry I am to hear about your son Ben. His brave work and sacrifices are a testimony to both of you and you should be very proud. I know your heart is breaking right now both with sorrow and pride. May God Bless you and Ben and your family and help you to find peace in your memories of your wonderful son-a True American Hero. From my sons and daughter- a heartfelt thanks for all those Ben served and condolences for a fellow military member, they too are saddened to hear the news. You are forever in my prayers and support.

Carrie, there is no way we can know how badly your heart is broken right now but we all love you and support you. Ben was a really good man and for that you can forever be proud....Love You....

Carrie...there are no words that work in this time of sorrow. We remember meeting Ben for the first time in Cozumel. What an awesome kid. We watched him grow to be a man who would sacrifice his own life in to save another. A rare breed. We will hold Ben in our hearts forever.

I am in Michigan

I am a Gold Star Family Member ,And will Help the Family in any way I can I know your pain and prayers go out to the families He is a American Hero

I'm gonna miss you Stiggy! Thank you for being a great friend and all the good times. I will see you when I get there.