27, of Cedarburg, Wisconsin.
Castner died of injuries sustained when an improvised explosive device detonated near his HMMMV during combat operations in Tallil, Iraq. Castner was assigned to the Army National Guard's 1st Battalion, 121st Field Artillery, Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Died on July 24, 2006.
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"To Castner's wonderful family: I had the honor of being stationed with Steve at FE Warren AFB, WY. His memory and friendship will never fade. If there are two things he taught me: it was to be myself, no matter what and to live life to the fullest, and enjoy doing it. For that I am honored and fortunate."
Laura (Weiss-Chester) Vandegriffe of Steelville, MO
"I was Stephen's crew member the day of the attack. It was my last mission and his first. What an unfortunate day. Stephen made the ultimate sacrifice and for that he is a true hero. I will never forget you brother."
SSG Jeffrey Vorpahl of GreenBay, WI
"James,
I would like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.
"Catervae Ferreae"(The Brigade of Iron)
121st FA Motto"
"I served in A Co. 2-127th Infantry, the unit that Stephen Castner was training to relieve. I travelled the same roads that Stephen did, and I know the dangers of the job him and I were asked to do. It was a dangerous job and I have the utmost respect for him and his fellow soldiers. After returning home, I later learned that Stephen attended the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point, and was active in the same ROTC program in which I received my commission. So even though I never met CPL Stephen W. Castner, I feel like I have a small bond with him. I salute you CPL Castner, you will never be forgotten."
1LT Jason M. Reiman of Plover, WI USA
"I served in A Co. 2-127th Infantry, the unit that Stephen Castner was training to relieve. I travelled the same roads that Stephen did, and I know the dangers of the job him and I were asked to do. It was a dangerous job and I have the utmost respect for him and his fellow soldiers. After returning home, I later learned that Stephen attended the University of Wisconsin - Stevens Point, and was active in the same ROTC program in which I received my commission. So even though I never met CPL Stephen W. Castner, I feel like I have a small bond with him. I salute you CPL Castner, you will never be forgotten."
1LT Jason M. Reiman of Plover, WI USA
"Thank you Stephen Castner, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios
"To the family and friends of Spc. Stephen Castner:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Stephen for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada
"To the family and friends of Spc. Stephen Castner:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Stephen, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia