Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I miss you"
Cynthia of Corona, CA

"Nothing sounds right...Thanks for being you. One of the best soldiers and best people I have ever had the honor of meeting."
Beckman of Seattle

"Over 8 years and I still think about you every day. I wish we had taken that road trip, but more than anything I wish you were still here.

If there is a heaven I know you're there, and I hope that you're ready to some day sneak me in the backdoor.

I miss you always."
Hey you! of California

"Forgot to date 1/31/2013 it has been 8 years and one Month since you went to your permanent home in Heaven."
Yvette of Corona/CA

"Hi Jonathan, I don't think there is one day that I don't think about you. Every time i see a ford truck i think about you and remember our times off roading through the hills of corona. I will always cherish our times together. I miss you very much. I love you Horse Boy! Please take care of my Tazzi since she joined you a few months ago. You will never ever be forgotten. You were such a blessing to us all."
Yvette "Midget" of Corona/CA

"I am hoping your good memories come flooding to you this Veteran Day regarding Jonathan. It has been many years and we are still fighting these wars, but God's Blessing help us rise above. Bless Your Family,"
Nancy of Campbell, Ca

"Dear Jonathan,
These days are always the harder for me because this time 8 years ago we were touring Seattle for our 21rst birthday. I cherish every memory and hold it close to my heart. If I were to ever forget one laugh, one kiss, one hug.. I'd rather die than to lose a memory of you.. I miss you so much and still waiting for the "easier" part. I love you. Always have and always will...
<3 dez"
Desiree Cook of Riverside, Ca

""Hello,
I am SFC David Wilcox, from Vilseck, Germany. I found a picture of Jonathan in a box in our motor pool, I am deeply sorry for your loss, if you could email me your address I will mail it to you. God Bless,
SFC David Wilcox
david.wilcox1980@yahoo.com"
David of Vilseck, Germany"
David of Vilseck, Germany

"Hey brother I still remember that day. You came and asked me if i wanted to go to lunch. I cried when matthews came back and told me. When we first met we couldnt stand each other but i learned so much from you and you became one of my closest friend in the squad. We cracked jokes from all the field when i was your AG and me and you running from the tank with a javelin and a 240B. I MISS AND LOVE YOU BROTHER. your always with me"
SSG PHIPPS of killeen, TX

"It s funny how BIG yet how small the Army is...I found myself at a San Jose facility and there on one of the walls behind the glass window was a newspaper article recalling your tragic event....tears welled up in my eyes...now even more because it reminded me of you and also because of my own personal tragedy with my brother...may you both be at peace wherever you are.....you will never be forgotten."
maribel of san jose, CA

"I think of your family quite often. I kept the notice of Jonathan's death from our local paper to remind me of "who he was" and "could have been". War will always be tragic, but somehow Jonathan "touched my heart". I have two sons and he reminded me of some of their friends. He seemed bright, energized, and curious. Now, the Iraq War is winding down and he has been in my thoughts for 8 years. I pray to keep his memory alive as I speak his name to others and the family's sacrifice. I am so sorry his life was short lived. God Bless your family and forever your beloved Jonathan."
Nancy of San Jose, CA

"Castro,
What to say...we served together in 73rd Engineers before it was even the 73rd. I think about you and the rest of the guys often and try to pay tribute to all of you each Memorial and Veterans day. Today, the Red Cross held a blood drive and asked the donors to send a card to the troops in honor of their service. My card will go to a current soldier thanking them for their service but also with a message thanking you for your sacrifice and a few short details of that awful day. We had some good times and I always respected the stand up, goodhearted man you were with such a hard work ethic. Heck, I even let you date my sister while she stayed with me in Washington State. I just wanted you to know you were not forgotten and never will be. Miss ya bro!"
Brian Butler of Vista, CA

"I can never forget Castro, he made me laugh when times were tough, I made him smile when he was down. Both him and Ayro I will never forget, what happened that day in Dec 2004 will never be forgetten, I was sitting right bye them when it happenened. To their familys I am truly sorry, it should of never happened if.......had did their job sorry don't wanna say who was responsible on line."
Dan of Oregon

"my little brother is with you now...wherever you are.... please watch over us..."
maribel

"I remember having a good time with you back a ft lewis and I still think about what happened but I am still mad because you never should have been their you should have been at home."
Nick of seattle wa

"Nov 19,2010 Hey bro.. I was driving home yesterday and was thinking of you.. I had to stop by your grave site and spend some time there talking to you.. We had some great memories huh.. Just wanted to keep reminding you that you will never be forgotten. Promise. Please look over all of us. Love ya bro. John Paul Castro"
John Paul Castro of Riverside, CA

"To the young man I never met, but that doesn't matter. Whenever I go to Riverside Memorial, I will stop by your grave, and leave some kind of decoration showing respect to you as a fallen soldier. Then I will walk to another grave near by and do the same for another young man I knew who lost his life over there at 19 years old. When I leave your area, I then go to my Grampas grave, a naval officer, and I leave each time knowing how happy he would be to know the respect he gave me for the military people who serve our country lives on thru me."
Sandy of Corona, Ca

"hey do yuo remember me.."
bona of philipines

"Horse-boy...wow it has been so long since I've called you by that nick name. I still want to call you on your personal line or cell and hear your voice one last time. I will never have a friendship like ours again, but I hope one day GOD will bless me with something just half of what we had.
I miss you so much. It has been over 5 years now and I still think of you almost every day. I miss your friendship so much. I know you are in a better place and I look forward to seeing you again.

Love you always,

Midget"
of Corona, CA

"December 21, 2009 Hey Jonathan, was thinking of you and my Desi. Yep, another year has gone since you passed on, what is it now, 5 years? I look at it as just another year closer to meeting up with you in our real home called Heaven. Say Hi to Jess and my Dad, see you real soon, Love you Boy.

Colleen"
Colleen (Cook) Kruger of Redondo Beach, CA

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"It was my pleasure to serve with you in the engineers."
Keven Perkins SFC (R) of Laurel, MD

"Dear Castro Family,

I just want you to know I was thinking of Jonathan and your family. Praying for peace for all of you. I try to never forget people. So I hope to keep his memory alive even though I never met him.

God Bless,

Elainna Berry"
Elainna Berry of Irvine, Ca U.S.A.

"Dear Castro Family,
You dont know me, but I heard of your loss the day after it happened, you see I am a Castro, and was deployed in Iraq at the time of his death. My family was contacted by friends, thinking there was a misprint. I am originaly from Corona and now reside in Riverside, My heart goes out to you and your family. Your son gave the ultimate sacrafice, and we are all truly grateful to him and your family. May God watch over you and yours and help ease the pain of your loss.
Forever Grateful
Sgt. Castro
USARNG"
Joe Castro of Riverside, CA

"Hey cos. We had a parade last weekend here in Oak Harbor. And they had pictures of people who had fallen in Washington state. It broke my heart because I still miss you. Everytime I look at Torralee I see you and I remember the time your mom was up here for uncle Bob's furnal and she was at the stage where she would not go to anyone. But she went to her and the way they look at each other I knew you had a part in it. I know that your still watching over all of us and I will never forget you I think of you all the time. clthill04@yahoo.com"
Lillian H. of Oak Harbor, Wa

"hey mrs. castro i hope your doing fine and im sorry for ur loss...but i loved hearing your stories of your son in class in 6th period...but know this he's in a better place and we will all see him soon! and i hope you liked that poem i made you back then.

xoxoxo mayra villamil
email me when you can(atruedreamer420@yahoo.com)"
mayra of california city

"August 8, 2008
Hey bro.. Wow.. I honestly cant stop thinking about you.. I know I talk to you a lot when I am driving.. I know you look over a lot of your loved ones and I still see you in my mind.. I know one day all of us will be by yourside.. I want to thank you once again for being such a great friend and an amazing hero for me and many others.. Thank you again and I will keep talking to you till the day I am next to you in Heaven.. Love you bro.. John Paul Castro
951-443-8943 greengoloco01@hotmail.com"
John Paul Castro of Riverside, California USA

"August 8, 2008
Hey bro.. Wow.. I honestly cant stop thinking about you.. I know I talk to you a lot when I am driving.. I know you look over a lot of your loved ones and I still see you in my mind.. I know one day all of us will be by yourside.. I want to thank you once again for being such a great friend and an amazing hero for me and many others.. Thank you again and I will keep talking to you till the day I am next to you in Heaven.. Love you bro.. John Paul Castro
951-443-8943 greengoloco01@hotmail.com"
John Paul Castro of Riverside, California USA

"jonathan i know that you never knew me. but i am your cousin that was given up at birth. i know the price that you paid for all of our freedom. thanks cousin. we will never beable to repay you for what you did."
jordan of redlands ,ca 92373

"You are still in my heart. I miss you terribly. RIP"
~K of Norco, CA

"May 25, 2008
To the family of Spc. Jonathan Castro:
Jonathan gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"Hola Jorge and Vickie,
Thinking of you on this holiday and almost everyday. I have Jonathan's photo on our fridge and at my work desk. Thanks to God for the peace he has given you so far."
Acuna Family of Glendora, Ca

"castro, it's been sometime but it still doesnt seem real. I remember we found out on the same day we were both stop lossed back at Lewis. You were so light hearted about it. You told me "plus time sucks", when I would complain about it. I knew you understood. I was able to talk to you the day before you passed, and I will always remember that time. you are never forgoten."
brad of austin, minnesota

"I'm trying to move on but I can't. I miss you too much."

"Three years today sweetie and I still think about you every day. You were the best friend I could have ever asked for. I'm sorry for not being there for you when you needed me the most. All I can say is that I was scared and I didn't know what to do. You came into my life and turned it upside down and changed me forever. For that, I thank you and hope you know that you will ALWAYS be in my heart."
Hey you! of California

"Jonathan I am glad that got to spend that last summer with you before you left for the army and being with all the cousins. And how you took us all riding. I miss the fact that you were up here at Fort lewis and i didnt get the chance to invite you to my wedding. But the day that you passed away was the day I was going to the doctor to see what I was going to have so to let you know that Your second cousin has A J for her middle name just for you. I missyou"
Lil Beth of Oak Harbor,wa

"I was blessed to know you for such a long time! I miss hangin out at gramas house!or eatin her food together and just talking about nothing! your courage lives within our family and i will see you again one day! Love "The Duran Family" (Kiko, Chayo, Melissa, Marie, Joseph and Nicholas!)"
Melissa Duran of Los Angeles, Ca USA

"Dear Jonathan's Mom and your family all,
I am a Chinese mom and a born-again Christian, I absolutely understand your feelings. because, I am also strongly missing my son -John Gao, a teenage Christian who laid down his own 15.6 year life for his classmates two year ago in the Atlantic Beach Currents.
But, we should have steadfast faith that our dear sons never "dead" to let us lose them. they just rest in the Lord' Arms due to their sacrifice for others (“Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13 “) and their faith in the Lord and their love to all of us during their lives in this world . we will reunite with them someday in Eternal Kingdom by the Lord Faithful Promise, let's expect that day joyfully and peacefully. Amen !

May the peace, joy from the Lord be with you and your family !

Mom
grace"
Grace of Flushing, NY/U.S

"Jon a Childhood Playmate. I offer my Prayers and My love to your Family. Even though During our Latter Years we didn't know each other, Now I see all those missed times of seeing each other has come to be my loss. I see you have become a Wonderful Man and Human Being. I salute you A Hero , A Friend , A Son and An Angel on earth. I also see you Blessed and Touched so many Lives, You will always be with us now and forever. You'll always be in my Heart Childhood Buddy! Much love to Your Family. God Bless!"
Jo' elle Di Valerio of Costa Mesa, CA

"Oh my God! Vickie, Jorge. I just heard today. My LOVE, thoughts and prayers are with you. You were great parents and I know Jonathan is watching over you from heaven. I last saw him at his birthday party when he was just a little guy. I know time has separated us through the years, but the love and sorrow never leaves the heart. I love you guys. May God Bless you both and strengthen you. 714-418-3219"
Karen Di Valerio of Costa Mesa, CA

"you had been deceased for 3 years, before i found out, but thank god for cnn, it was last friday about midnight 4 may 07 , and i was preparing for drill and they said your name on t.v.
and i turned around and began to shake my head , i didnt want think it was you and they said you died in 04 and i was horrified i just found out i began throwing * around my room, i shed some tears for you dawg , i remember we used to get drunk in the barracks with "dirty " and "goat" , i remember we used to go on double dates with juwanna and janice, or your girl and vanessa. remember when were at that party and we had to take/steal whats his name("Cabason")s motorcycle keys cuz he was so drunk he would have surely wrecked,so instead 7 or 8 of us packed in your truck to get back to the barracks. You were the best friend i had @ Ft lewis, i wish i had stayed in touch. i miss you dawg,one love(to any friend or family of my homie Castro, my condolences and prayers My numbers are (601)885-9122 home / (601)559-5688 cell"
Sgt Langley, Ryan H of Jackson, MS

"Hey Jonathan, God I miss you soo much. I still can't believe what has happened. We were eachothers 1st loves and it will forever remain that way. You are forever in my heart, thoughts, and prayers! We had so many fun times together. Our years together (good times and bad) will forever be in my heart! I thank god everyday that we kept in touch with eachother even after our breakup! Wow...I can remember all the fun times we had...our first kiss, the volleyball courts on halloween, going with your mom to the horse shows in Fullerton, Knott's Scary Farm, Douglas Burger, handball court...#9 baby! The list goes on and on! I miss you soo much and I am very thankful that we were able to talk with eachother the day before this tragedy. Just so you know, the heart you welded for me for Valentines day with our initials in it, I continue to hold dear to me! I keep a pictur of you with me in my wallet..(it's your church picture I had to fight to get HEHE) You are such a huge part of many individuals lives and we miss you very much! I hope you like the poem I made you! Remember, every phone conversation we had during and after our relationship we said I LOVE YOU, I still mean that! I LOVE YOU!!!! See you later!"
SHANNON of Corona, Cali

"JONATHAN, SWEETIE, AS THE DAYS GO BY I MISS YOU EVEN MORE. THANK YOU SO SO MUCH FOR ALWAYS BEING A GREAT FRIEND, AT TIMES LIKE A BROTHER. THE BEST MEMORIES I HAVE ARE ONES THAT INVOLVE YOU. THANK YOU. JUNIOR HIGH, HIGH SCHOOL, AND COLLEGE WERE THE BEST FOR ME, BECAUSE NO MATTER HOW FAR AWAY YOU WERE YOU STILLED SEEMED TO BE SO CLOSE.YOU NEVER LET US DRIFT FAR APART, EVEN WHEN YOU WERE ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD. YOUR CALLS AND LETTERS ALWAYS CAME AT THE BEST TIME. THANKS FOR ALL THE GREAT, FUN MEMORIES IN CAD,DRAFTING,AFTER SCHOOL,PROM AND GRADUATION.I KNOW YOU ALWAYS AND FOREVER WILL BE IN MY HEART.WE WERE CLOSER THAN FRIENDS AND WILL ALWAYS BE. YOU, MARCOS AND ME. I LOVE YOU AND MISS YOU LOTS JONATHAN. I KNOW THE PAIN OF LOOSING YOU SO SOON WILL FADE BUT YOUR MEMORY AND LOVE WILL ALWAYS BE MY HEART. MY FAMILY AND ME SEND THEIR LOVE AND PRAYERS,AND CONDOLENCES TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. THANK YOU FOR EVERYTHING WE SHARED BETWEEN US AND FOR ALL THE GREATEST MEMORIES WE MADE. MISS YOU!!!"
JESSICA GARCIA of CORONA/CALIFORNIA/U.S.A

"To the family of Jonathan Castro.

My name is Spc. Grant Bledsoe. I was a good friend of Jonathan. We were roommates in bootcamp at Ft. Leonard Wood, Missouri. Im in the Virginia Army National Guard. I was with 3rd plt. B Co. 276th En Bn. We attached with the 25ID after the 2 ID left.

It shocked me one night i was going to our chow hall i was sitting right next to Jonathan and I kept telling myself i know this guy (i haven't seen him in 4 years) so i asked him man i think i know you. I told him are you Castro he looked at me kind of weary and said yes i then said Echo Company back in august of 2001. he said yep and i said man im Bledsoe remember me dude he was like shocked as hell and he said NO *! BLEDSOE WHAT'S UP MAN!pardon my language) probably not that good of a story but that memory always comes to me. We actually live right next to each other over on Marez FOB, Mosul Iraq. His passing when our chow hall was bombed hit me hard, to his family ive wanted to show my condolence to you all a lot earlier but i just didn't know how. I want you to know Jonathan fought brave and gave them hajis' hell. Im very proud to have know him."
Grant Bledsoe of Big Stone Gap , VA/ USA

"Jon Castro was my best friend.He was always there for me when i needed him.I remember when i was punished for something i did to myself and i was put in a place that was cold and lonley and no one came to see me not even my mother but one day i herd i had a visitor and it was Jon there to bring me a Subway sandwich because i kept calling him collect from there telling how gross the food was.He always surprised me and made me feel so warm inside to anyone who knew him he brought out the best in you really.I still cant belive hes gone sometimes i just put it out like hes just been gone for a while and hasnt called me in a while.I only wish it was true.I think of him everyday adn think of his smile and how any hour of any night i could always call him for anything.When we first met my freshmen year i guess he herd about me from jr. high but never met me because i switched schools, so when i first met him he was interested and so was i ...we would flirt from time to time but then we became very close friends and thats all we ever wanted this to be a really good friendship.The first time i went to go visit his grave it was the hardest thing to go through i was there kissing his head stone and looking at the army picture of him he mailed to me a few years ago.I used to love his stories from his elementry school and what a menace he was but neevr got caught ...still puts a smile to my face.I miss him sooo much and i wish he was still here.I still remember when he told me he was going to the army and i thought "wow great im so happy for you" within the next month or two 9/11 hit and all i ever did after tha was worry about him.but deep down i didnt think god would take him.Im so proud of him for trying to protect us and he will always be my hero.

i love u and miss you jon."
JACKIE HERRERA of CORONA,CA.USA

"Jonathan and I went to school together, and I knew him for several years. I had the pleasure of sharing many classes with him and learning and benefitting from his assistance and numerous talents. We built guitars together at Centennial, and worked side by side since we were friends. He and his family are frequently in my prayers."
Anna of Los Angeles (formerly Corona)

"To the Family,

Im so sorry for your lost. I am very proud of Jonathan Castro to be so brave to stand up for the United States and for my freedom. I was a daughter of a Navy dad who was in for 22 years. I am very lucky that he is still around. It takes a special person to be so brave. I wish you peace and rest.
Thank you so much Jonathan for risking you life to create peace for me and the other people around the world.

Your crown is loaded with beautiful gems in heaven. But then again you already know that. You are wearing it now."
Elainna Berry of Irvine, Ca USA

"Dear Vikie,
I would like to thank you for speaking with me Iam really sorry about your son stay strong for others God Bless"
Sarah Oglesby of RSM California

"jon, i loved you sooooo much, your death has hurt me and also has taught me to be open with my feelings. God bless!"
Tiffany Greer

"To "barbara," of Hawthorne, California:

This isn't about you, and neither is it about your political slights. We're here to honor the memory of a fine soldier, a brother; we're not here to indulge your political hatreds. God bless America. God bless Jonathan Castro, beloved son and soldier."
Jackson Thomas of Missoula, MT

"Dear Jon,
You probably wont remember me much...but i do remember you...I came across our friend Juan Salgado one of these days...I was washing my truck...he saw me and came by to say "hi"...he asked where i'd been and how long i've been back...i told him i'd been in that shithole of Iraq and i'd been back for a few days..."Iraq"...he paused for a moment...he then broke down the news that you were gone...."GONE" what do you mean i said? so naive...so stupid of me to ask that question! He said they killed you in Iraq....i felt a knot on my throat....i remember you from school...you see...Remember we signed that damn contract...right about the same time...remember back in Centennial High we used to talk about what we would do....remember we used to train on the weekends with SGT.Polite., John Giroux, and others...we would go out on a run...and do all that PT BS....yeah...that knot was hard to swallow.....i stayed quiet, motionless for a moment....i could not believe what he was saying....i came home that day...my day ruined, a gray thought in my head....i came to look for your name in the internet... and came across this page...so many pages with your name on it....that bastard blasting himself and taking your life.....i hope he's damned in hell...but you my friend...know this...you will live forever in our hearts and minds....
We never spoke again after we graduated, but i know you went far away..i got sent to germany and then to Iraq...i'm back, but you are gone...not just you, many more...but you..you are especial because i knew you back then...and it hurts to know that someone you know is dead....
To your parents i want to tell them...i am so sorry for their loss and there are no words that can fill in the void of you being gone....i cannot imagine what my family would go through if they'd found out i was gone...I will always remember you...funny guy...Jonathan Castro...a friend, a U.S.Army Soldier.
To the family: Please, i would like to know where he is resting so i can pay my respects, and to remember your son because he was my friend. A Fallen Hero. My email is lindamari78234@yahoo.com"
Maribel Piche of Corona, CA

"Hey Battle! I can't believe you are gone. It seems like only yesterday we were in basic training together. You were helping my with my pt, we were running around the barracks together. I just found out today by coming across your name on the internet. I never stopped thinking about you, since the last time i seen you in AIT. I really regret not being able to keep in touch with you after that. It's so hard to believe that you are gone. I am so happy that i had the opportunity to go through basic training and ait with you, it was the best time ever. And to your parents i want to tell you how sorry i am that he was taken away from you. Castro was a very loving and kind person. He was a leader who was meant for great things. One day i would like to visit his grave and tell him that myself. Please give me a call and let me know where he is buried, and i would like to talk to you as well. Take Care. (605)473-5543"
Ursula Estes of Lower Brule, South Dakota

"i listened to you speak at agape in culver city, ca, tonight. thank you. i share your pain at the loss of your beautiful child and wanted to tell you how grateful i am that you said it out loud - we should not wait until 2008 to get rid of this administration. love and peace"
barbara of hawthorne, ca

"Dear Jorgé and Vickie,

It was only recently that I learned of this great tragedy from (horse) Paso Fino acquaintances. Although only having known Jonathan for such a short time at age 13,I always marveled at his intelligence, maturity, respect for all, and his great talent and ability as a rider and a showman as well as the closeness, loyalty, and interaction of your family and how it molded him into an admirable man. He was such an angel! Tears well up every time I think of his useless and unnecessary loss that simarly continues to expend the lives of hundreds and destroy their hopeful families who pray for their safe return. All in the name of "WMD", then "Iraqi freedom", and what further platforms the administration chooses as a cause to snuff out the lives of innocent, patriotic and loyal young Americans also put in vulnerable positions."
Theo of Temecula, California

"JOHN, REMEMBER THE TIME YOU TOOK ME HORSEBACK RIDING? IT WAS TWO DAYS BEFORE YOU LEFT TO IRAQ. I HAD THE BEST TIME WITH YOU THAT AFTERNOON. WE TALKED ABOUT EVERYTHING. I CRIED, YOU LAUGHED. I HATE THE FACT THAT YOU ARE GONE. BUT YOU HAVEN’T LEFT MY HEART, AND KNOWING THAT YOU ARE IN A MUCH BETTER PLACE RELEIVES ME. YOU KNOW I’M ALWAYS THINKING ABOUT YOU. THERE’S NO WAY YOU WILL EVER BE FORGOTTEN. I STILL SEEM TO THINK THAT ONE DAY YOU WILL COME KNOCKING ON MY FRONT DOOR. BELIEVE ME WHEN I SAY THAT MY MOM AND I MISS THE CRAP OUT OF YOU. THANK YOU FOR BEING MY FRIEND, FOR ALWAYS CALLING, FOR ALWAYS COMING OVER TO VISIT...AND FOR ALWAYS CARING ABOUT ME. I'LL ALWAYS TREASURE OUR FRIENDSHIP. I’LL BE SEEING YOU ONE DAY. I MISS YOU, JOHN.
*****LOVE YOU*****"
DENISE PINEDA of CORONA, CA

"Jonathan...my Buddy! I miss you so much. I still can't believe you are gone. You are always in my thoughts and I am always thinking that you'll call. We all miss you greatly and wish you were still here. Jorge & Vickie be strong someday you will see Jonathan again. I LOVE YOU JONATHAN!"
Ana Trochez of Corona, CA

"To the family of Jonathan Castro, I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to talk to or someone to pray with you please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church Rev John B. Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga.30016 phone 770-787-1015. YOur friend in Jesus Christ i"
Polly Ballew of Covington Ga. U S A

"Its amazing to see that someone loved so much would be in heaven now ya know? I have family in Iraq. Your friends from the 73rd. Man, I cannot tell you how much they miss you. They think about you everyday. I know how your family feels. The hurt and the agony. Ben was with you in the chow hall that day. God I know he misses you. Thank you for taking him out for his 21st. It sucked! I wasnt 21! But im glad he had you to take him out. I have heard so many stories from your boys in Iraq. Jeremy said you were his first friend. They miss you so much. Thank you for watching over them for me. Every night I say a prayer to you and thank you for helping me take care of Ben. I know some day, I'll be able to meet you in heaven and thank you for everything you have done for us. Vicki, we've talked quite a bit and Im glad we have had the opportunity to talk about everything. I hope when they come home, you will come visit all of us. Thank you for everything! Happy Birthday Castro. Thank you for being there for us."
Love, Jenni and Ben of Ft. Lewis, Wa

"My jon i miss you so much, and i'm sure you know that. I will always remember all the good times we shared and the special moments we made with each other. Your birthday is around the corner and I cannot stop thinking about you. Although you are gone you will always have a special place in my heart as well as in my life. i love you and will always love you. Cory*"
corina feiker of corona ca

"hi jonathan i know somehow you can hear this. i didn't know you that well, i remember corina(my cousin) had a party at my house a long time ago..you were there, remember we played super mario brothers..your a great person. i will always remember you...you'll be in our hearts, happy early birthday, its this sunday, you would have been 22, john your death impacted cory so much that our whole family was in sorrow...we all love you..i'll miss you"
erin hermosillo of corona, ca

"All of us near and far have one thing in common our love for Jonathan,"HONEY" as I use to call him because he was always so sweet, even when he was upset. Every single one of us feels sad, hurt and angry. All of us I am sure ask ourselves "WHY?" everyday, "WHY" such a young, handsome, loving boy/man. None of us ever gets the answer to that question and it makes us even angrier to know that we are never going to get an answer. All we hear from everyone is that "GOD needed a(n) Soldier/Angel" but what about us we need him too! Mr. and Mrs. Castro aswell as everyone that visits this site I found a prayer that has helped a little with the pain and emptiness I feel, I hope it helps you too!
Dear God,
Experiencing the loss of a loved one is so shattering. It's difficult to greet each day when my loss has left me empty and numb. Help me fill that void with the focus of the wonderful memories we shared. Allow me to feel the comfort and gentle encouragement of your angels whispering that my loved one is safe and happy with you. Please nourish me with your love and give me the strength and will to carry on.
Amen"
Numb :-( of Riverside, CA

"I kept a newspaper article about your son in my drawer and I take it out once in a while, because I wanted to remember what he "could have been" and his sacrifice.

Thenewspaper article states he dreamed of becoming an engineer, and built an electric car. What a wonderful gift of curiosity he could have given the world, my heartfelt sympathy. I know he was only hoping to get a GI loan to go to school and his duty was extended because there were not sufficient recruits. He touched my heart and I didn't know him."
Nancy of Campbell, CA

"Jonthan, as I look into the eyes of your Mother I know. She is me and I am her. She lost you, her precious son at Christmas, the last time I saw my precious son alive was at Christmas. Now you fly high above us all with your 1,520 other buddies! God bless you and your beautiful mother."
Lila Lipscomb of Flint, Michigan

"Jonathan I miss you soo much!! I've always told you that but now it's more than ever... You're in my heart forever... I love you!"
Desiree Cook of Riverside, Cali

"Hey Jonathan, I miss you and I am so angry that I lost you so soon. I will never feel the safety and security that I had with you. I don't know what I am going to do without you, just keep in mind "split hearts." I love you and I’m sorry for all the misunderstandings and the fears that we had to deal with. My only comfort is that I know that someday I will be with you again. Don’t ever forget that my love for you is like "metal (you know what I am talking about)- it will always be there.""
Cynthia Aldrete of Corona, CA

"Dear Castro Family,
I was sickened to hear about your recent loss. Running through my mind are all the passionate times I heard you speak about your son while conversing at work. There is so much love, respect, honor and pride in those words and rightly so. I wish there was more to express to you at this time. Just know that my heart is with you. You are a wonderful and giving part of this community. I believe all war is senseless, but I am honored to know that there are people like Jonathan who in spite of conditions, give their all for humanity. May you find some peace knowing that you and Jonathan are loved!"
Alana Paratore of Centennial HS, Corona, CA USA

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Jonathan, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you ALWAYS. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"To my friends Jorge and Vickie,
No one knows the cross you bear in the loss of your beloved Jonathan. I just came home from the memorial mass you had in honor of your son, and was compelled to sit and tell you how sorry I am that you have to go through this. From the first hymn to the last blessing, my thoughts were of you and how you will cope without the sound of his voice, or the touch of his hand. We all have such fond memories and that is what we must live for now. Be strong my friends and know that he is now a true Soldier in Christ, looking down on us and still loving you."
Janis Keppler of Corona CA. USA

"I was sickened when I first heard of the dreadful attack that took your life, and eager to learm more about you and your comrades. Now, being able to see your young, handsome, face filled with the promise of life, I struggle to make sense of this ill-conceived war. You will always be in my heart and thoughts as will your wife and family."
Kate Tippett-Bowles of Virginia Beach, Virginia

"Dear Jonathan
I wish I had more time to get to know you and I wish I spent less time being so shy...(You know what im talking about)...From the first time we met, I have never forgotton your face. You had such an unforgettable spirit about yourself and it is so hard to believe that I will never be able to talk to you again. I remember our last conversation we had and I will hold your words in my heart forever. I believe you are in a better place now, but that still does not stop the tears and the anger of losing you so soon. You will forever be missed and in my thoughts everyday."
Kimberly of Norco, California

"DEAR JONATHAN:
I JUST WISH I WOULD HAVE SPENT A LITTLE MORE TIME AND TALKED JUST A LITTLE BIT LONGER BEFORE YOU LEFT MY HOUSE THE LAST TIME I SAW YOU. I DONT EVEN KNOW IF I SAID GOODBYE. I DONT REMEMBER. YOU LEFT TO THE ARMY AND THAT WAS IT. I WAS SURE I WOULD SEE YOU AGAIN. I WOULD HAVE NEVER THOUGHT... I'M STILL FIGHTING TEARS.
EVEN THOUGH WE WEREN'T THAT CLOSE,YOUR ABSENCE HAS LEFT ME BOTHERED, DAZED AND DISTRAUGHT. I'M STILL TRYING TO RECALL OUR MEMORIES. REMEMBER OUR KISS? HEHE. THAT WAS CUTE.
YOUR IN MY HEART, THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. YOU'LL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN YET YOU WILL ALWAYS BE MISSED. YOUR IN A SAFER PLACE NOW ATLEAST. YOUR AN ANGEL."
SARA KEPPLER of CORONA CA

"To the friend that I use to have a crush on when I was 12 years old. The time you and your parents use to sit behind my family in church and your dad telling you that you were my crush. The times I would turn around and we would laugh and giggle towards each other. One time I will never forget Jonathan, is when you came to my school (Santiago High) for a recruiting process, you found me in the crowd and said "HI" and we hung out for the 45min lunch period that I had, and then the times I would go to your house and drive the "Hay cart" around to feed the horses. Those are the memories I'll never forget between us. You were a great guy and you will never be forgotten! Rest In Peace, and watch over us all!
Love Always"
Caryn Keppler of corona Ca. US

"I am very sorry for what happend to a great friend of mine during my years at Centennial High School in Corona. None of us will never forget how great of a guy you are. Our prayers go to his family and friends. God Bless Our Soldiers. May you rest in peace."
Love, John Paul Castro of Corona, CA/USA

"There are no words to express the sorrow we feel for your loss. May God bless you and help you through this time."
Dan and Meg Manninen of San Antonio, Texas

"To the parents and family of Jonathan Castro: The NY Times carries word of your son's death in today's paper, reminding us all how great a loss and sacrifice families such as yours are having to endure. Your son's supreme sacrifice is not lost on a father and a daughter, who wish this conflict quickly brought to an end. We are thankful to your son and wish peace and comfort for those he has left behind. God Bless Jonathan Castro on this Christmas Day."
Walter of Yonkers, NY, USA

"Thank you Jonathan Castro, 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. Jonathan Castro:
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 Jonathan 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. Jonathan Castro:
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 Jonathan, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia