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Spc. Benjamin A. Smith

Benjamin Smith Obituary

A Hudson, Wis., soldier was among three soldiers killed Wednesday when a roadside bomb detonated near their military vehicle in Iraq, the Department of Defense reported today.

Spc. Benjamin A. Smith, 21, of Hudson was killed along with Spc. Joshua Munger of Maysville, Mo., and Pfc. Tyler MacKenzie, 20 of Evans, Colo.

The three were assigned to the Army's 1st Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Fort Campbell, Ky.

Smith is the 47th Wisconsin resident killed while serving in the military in Iraq. There have been 25 Minnesotans killed serving in the military in the war.

Published by Pioneer Press on Nov. 4, 2005.

Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Smith

64 Entries

Leila Campbell

May 7, 2013

To the family of Spc. Benjamin A. Smith:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, 26 May 2013. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served in the United States Armed Forces and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each 8-foot cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Freedom:Free, but Costly.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and there place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel. The Memorial Garden will remain until 5:00 p.m. on Monday, 27 May (Memorial Day).

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/286-7296) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/286-7296) or email the office ([email protected]) and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 25 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday, 26 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

October 23, 2012

Thinking of you today Ben.

April 23, 2012

To the family of Spc. Benjamin A. Smith:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Christian Memorial Day Remembrance worship service at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday 27 May 2012. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the bordering states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 300 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars of our nation's history and give honor to all who have served the United States and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of America's conflicts.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “Lest We Forget Freedom's Cost.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of the Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the Memorial Garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans' name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office, and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Saturday 26 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sunday 27 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one's cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

Peggy Childers

November 2, 2011

To the family and friends of Spc. Benjamin A. Smith:
Please accept my remembrance of Benjamin on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

May 10, 2011

To the family of Spc Benjamin A Smith:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 29 May 2011. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with some 200 white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one. The Memorial Garden’s perimeter will be manned by members of the Patriot Guard and a honor guard from AMVETS Post #1 of Mendota will be posted at the entrance.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses representing all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today. Wreaths will be placed at the foot of each cross bearing the number of U.S. Service Members killed in each of our nation’s wars.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled, “A Believer’s Look at War.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. A Memorial Rifle Squad of Fort Snelling National Cemetery will fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception (weather permitting) outside of the Chapel.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (651/456-4410) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (651/456-4410) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 28 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 29 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

Peggy Childers

November 2, 2010

To the family and friends of Spc. Benjamin A. Smith:
Remembering Benjamin on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org

April 30, 2010

To the family of Spc. Benjamin A. Smith:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 30 May 2010. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

The Memorial Garden will be encircled with larger white crosses to represent all of the wars in United States history and give honor to all who have served their country and made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy today.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “A Day of Remembrance.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception; weather permitting will be outside of the Chapel.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 29 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 30 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

Diane Waits

April 25, 2010

I will always cherish the memories that I have of you, Ben. Whenever I hear Greenday sing "When September ends" it takes me back to Ft. Campbell and the days i was able to spend with you and Andrew before the 101st deployed. Going to the cave, best buy (punk calling your sgt.) tooling around Clarksville with you, Andrew and Sonny, going to the movies. You visiting MI with Andrew and Sonny. You will never be forgotten, Ben. Thank you for touching my life. Waits' mom, D.

Kenna Larra

May 21, 2009

”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,450 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna

Leila Campbell

May 4, 2009

To the family of Spc. Benjamin a. Smith:

The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 24 May 2009. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain Col. Kenneth L. Beale, Jr., will preach a message entitled “Answering the Highest Call.” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played. Following your visit to the memorial garden, your family is invited to attend an informal reception in the Chapel’s Fellowship Hall.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org Special rates for nearby hotels will be available. For more information call (612/970-7866) or email ([email protected]) the office and leave your name and contact information.

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat 23 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun 24 May, a “Prayer Vigil for Peace” will be held in the sanctuary of the Chapel. You are invited to stop by, light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden … and then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Office Manager
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

Peggy Childers

November 14, 2008

To the family of Spc. Benjamin A. Smith:
Benjamin 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

In Memory of Benjamin ~ (Debra Estep)

November 2, 2008

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.

The Wind on The Downs

“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”

(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )

Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….

“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”

I did not know Benjamin, but I am remembering
his service and sacrifice. He is my hero. !

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The Other Side

i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.

can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.

i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side

the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.

i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.

Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)

“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008

The Other Side –
(To hear the song)
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol

Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom SSgt Vince – Lackland AFB
Proud Air Force MIL SrA Dana – Randolph AFB

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b

SSG C

June 19, 2008

hey man you were such a clown and made everybody laugh. i miss that. i'm sorry for what happened to you and wish i could have traded places with you. i should have been on that truck and not you guys. sorry for letting you down.

May 15, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Spc Smith!

Leila Campbell

April 30, 2008

To the family of Spc. Benjamin A. Smith:
The Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation will be honoring your loved one at the non-denominational Memorial Day Sunday worship service at 11:00 a.m. on 25 May, 2008. We will remember the casualties of the Global War on Terrorism from Minnesota … and the neighboring states of Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin. Outside of the historic Fort Snelling Veterans Memorial Chapel will be a “Memorial Garden” filled with white crosses bearing the names of the war dead … including your loved one.

I would like to extend to your family an invitation to honor us with your presence at worship as we pay tribute to the sacrifice made by your service member and family. Our pastor, U.S. Army Chaplain, LTC Kenneth L. Beale, Jr. will preach a message entitled “The Price of Freedom” At the conclusion of the worship hour, all of the congregation will be invited to silently pay their respects at the garden and place poppies at each of the crosses. An honor guard squad will be on hand to fire vollies as the US flag is lowered to half-staff and Taps is played.

As this Christian worship service has traditionally been well attended, we would be happy to reserve seating for you and yours. To do so, kindly call (612/970-7866) and leave a voice message indicating your veterans’ name and the number of persons attending. For more information about the Foundation or driving directions to the historic chapel at Fort Snelling, visit our website at: www.fortsnellingmcf.org

Also, beginning at dusk (8:30 p.m.) on Sat. 24 May through dawn (6:30 a.m.) on Sun. 25 May, a “PrayerVigil for Peace” will be held. You are invited to stop by and light a candle and place it at the foot of your loved one’s cross in the Memorial Garden, then enter the Chapel for prayer.

If you are not able to attend, we pray that you would find comfort in knowing that our prayers are with you and all of the fallen heroes.

Respectfully,
Leila Campbell
Administrative Assistant
Fort Snelling Memorial Chapel Foundation
email:[email protected]
web site:www.fortsnellingmcf.org

August 16, 2007

There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.

Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.

I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.

REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

July 24, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Spc Smith and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Linda Flannery

June 7, 2007

Remembering one of America's heros. You are not forgotten Spc Smith.
Rest in Peace, brave soldier, my flag flies in your honor.

Leila Campbell

May 5, 2007

Jessica MacKenzie

November 2, 2006

I am thinking of the three men who lost their lives a year ago. I think of them everyday and I never forget the sacrafice they made . They are always in my heart and so is their family. May God Bless Benjamin and the Smith Family.

Garnet Jenkins

November 2, 2006

Paying tribute to Spc. Benjamin A. Smith, on this first anniversary of the day, he gave his life for our Country and for Freedom. A Multitude of Thanks, for this young hero's Courage, Dedication and Service.
Rest In Peace Benjamin, in God's Loving Care and may God's Healing Grace and Comfort continue to be with the Smith family.
Those who Made the Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
My brother among them. KIA-Vietnam 1967.

Treasure this Young Hero Lord, In Your garden of rest,
For while here on this earth, he was one of our Best.

May the memories of your loved one live in your heart always.
I am deeply sorry for your loss.

THE SMITH FAMILY

October 2, 2006

THANK YOU TO THE MANY FRIENDS THAT MADE IT POSSIBLE FOR BEN'S FAMILY TO HAVE A MEMORIAL STONE PLACED AT OUT OUR MEMORIAL FOUNTAIN IN THE MEMORIAL PARK. HERE IN HENDERSONVILLE,TN. BEN'S NAME , DATE OF SERVICE IN IRAQ AND UNFORTUNATELY THE DATE OF HIS DEATH NOV/2/05.ARE ALL INCLUDED ON THE STONE. WE ARE LUCKY TO HAVE PEOPLE THAT CARE SO MUCH FOR BEN & ALL OF HIS FAMILY. THANK YOU FROM LINORE,JIM,ORION,BREANNA. TERRY TAMMY, SYDNEY ,EMILY SMITH .

SrA Josh Goetze

June 7, 2006

As a friend to Ben's back when we were in middle and high school it saddened me to here of his death, and i know it shook our city alot, me a a few others who knew ben where black braclets baring his name so he will never be forgotten, as a airman currently serving in SW Asia in support of OIF i know that his sacrifice is not forgotten

ROBYN GARSIDE

May 27, 2006

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST SYMPATHIES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.

A PROUD MARINE MOM

Leila Campbell

May 1, 2006

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

February 11, 2006

My heartfelt sympathy to the Smith family in the loss of Benjamin. I did not know Benjamin, but my heart is broken and I am sadden for your loss of such a fine young man and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers.

I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.

Love and Peace

Tom

To live in the hearts

of those you leave behind

is never to die"

~Robert Orr~

laurie miller

January 20, 2006

Thank you for all you have done for our country!

fred smith

December 22, 2005

I too lost my Marine (last year 11/16/04). not a day or night goes by w/o my memories of my Son. I pray daily for all who suffer loss. God's will is at work & you must be strong & yet humble. Know that all hope & pray for you. I hope that the support of friends,colleagues & family can bring you more comfort in this loss. Siempre Fidelis

shawnee

December 2, 2005

Benjamin Smith was a true American Hero. May he Rest in Peace.

Bethany Murphy (Trende)

November 19, 2005

I was so saddened to hear about the death of Benjamin. I'm originally from Hudson and still have close ties there, so to hear of Benjamin's death really brought the war home to me. When I read about his death in the Star Observer I wept -- for his bravery, your family's sacrifice, and for how so many truly great Americans won't be coming home this Thanksgiving. So this Thanksgiving I will be giving thanks to God for people like Benjamin who have given their lives for our country, given all they have for something they believe in. To give God's ultimate gift, your life, for others is truly one of the most noble sacrifices a citizen can make and I pray that our country will always act in good faith to deserve it. God bless you Benjamin.

Betty Hunnicutt

November 18, 2005

I grieve with you. The loss of a child has its own nature of pain that is like no other. I, too, have experienced this kind of pain. I pray for God's comfort and closeness to you and your family.

(I am a friend of Kay Brooks.)

Anthony Prose

November 14, 2005

I spent a lot of time with Ben through CAP. He was a great team player and brought a real positive attitude to everything he was involved with. Nearly every friend I have is over there, and I thank God for each and every one of them. It is truly a loss to everyone that Ben left us at such a young age but I know that he has touched us all enough so that we will never forget him. My prayers are with his family and friends.

Leanne Rogers

November 13, 2005

My heartfelt condolences to the family of Ben Smith. On 1/25/03, I lost my brother in Iraq - CW3 Patrick Dorff. Memories of my brother are as vivid as yesterday, but the pain IS less. With each day, I am blessed with knowing he was taken into the arms of the Lord. I also feel him with me everyday. May you feel that same comfort. God bless.

Sarah Kristine Koenekamp

November 13, 2005

I knew Ben through Civil Air Patrol. I didn't get to know him very well because he was only there for a short time after I joined but from the time I knew him he was a really amazing person. My prayers go out to his family.

callaghans/dumer

November 12, 2005

Just wanted to take a moment to let you know how sorry we are for your loss. Your family and Ben have been added to the prayer chain of our church. We can only hope that you find some comfort in knowing our prayers are with you all. God Bless.

Lanessa Bastian

November 11, 2005

I met Ben about 5 and a half years ago from being in Civil Air Patrol. Since then, I would go down to Hudson to see Ben and Kroll. Somehow when I went down to see them we would get into trouble. I remeber when I went to go and see him once. Kroll, Burgio, and Smith were all trying to teach me how to play poker. Didn't work very well though. Also, I remeber when he got notified that he was going to Iraq for first time. He called me up to let me know how excited he was. From that point on, whenever I talked to him he would tell me what happened in his day, or he would always share something intresting. Our friendship continued throughout the years and the time he was in Iraq. I will never forget his strength, courage, and overall personality. He was such a great guy to be around. Every time I saw him he was always laughing and sharing stories or telling jokes. He was always the life of the party.:)He is going to be missed greatly and I will never forget him. My deepest condolences go out to his family.

****Ben I will never forget you and what you did for our country, neither will everyone else. You were such a great friend to many.****

Bob Steffen

November 11, 2005

My sincere condolences to your family both immediate and extended. I will remember Ben's smile and constant curiosity about the world around him, his ability to make friends laugh, and ultimately his dedication to the cause he so believed in.

Michael "Pig Pen" Wright

November 11, 2005

I didn't know Spc. Smith, but I attended his visitation last night. I learned enough about him to know that I would have been very proud to have known him. His family did a great job raising a wonderful young man. To them I say thank you for your sacrifice and God bless you.

shelli kisch mike nelson

November 11, 2005

Very sorry about your son.We both worked with Orion.We will pray for your family.With deepest sympathies to your family.

Kelly Dorr

November 11, 2005

To the Family of Benjamin Smith: Our prayers and thoughts go out to you during this time. We did not know your son but we are thankful for everything that he has done to protect our country. It takes someone very special to put their lives on the line for people that they don't even know. Benjamin is safe in the arms of God and will always be in your hearts. We thank you for you son, brother, grandson and friend and for supporting him in his decision to defend us. God bless you all during this time!

Marcel Derosier

November 9, 2005

I knew Ben from Civil Air Patrol and remember him for his dedication, intellect, ambition, and sense of humor. His choice to go into the service in the time of war was indicative of how he lived live big. We will miss him.

Jamie Graves

November 9, 2005

God Bless~Land of the free, because of the brave.(Jamie,Navy wife)

Laurie MacKenzie

November 8, 2005

My nephew Tyler was with your son Ben the day they left our lives. Although they are no longer here physically, they are here in spirit and in our memories. Ben is an honorable man by every standard. A true American Hero. He had the courage to believe and follow his conviction. Thank God for men like Ben. I am thankful that Tyler had the opportunity to serve with someone as special as Ben. May God bless you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

scott and mary ann vanderbosch

November 7, 2005

Our son Jacob died October 3 in Irag. We know your pain. It has been 5 weeks and it is still so hard. We hope that the support of your family and friends will help you through this difficult time. It has helped us. From reading the entries in this guest book it seems like our sons were similar. Jake too was 21, always fun loving, and loved life. May God bless us all so that we have the courage and strength to get through this. If you would like, feel free to contact us.

Scott and Mary Ann Vanderbosch

[email protected]

Kevin Kroll

November 7, 2005

Ben was my best friend all the way through high school. We had a lot of fun and got into our share of trouble together. I will miss him. My prayers go out to his family.

James Ingle

November 7, 2005

I only met Smith once and that was through a friend of mine and his..Devin Dishner. Now I am in the Army and face the same fears but I know it was something that he wanted to do. I remember when we went to Wal-Mart and got into trouble over shopping-carts and playing with toys in the store. We had such a blast, he had me laughing so hard. He had a great personality and I will miss him. James Ingle

Keisha Ingle

November 7, 2005

I had only met Ben once but during the time I was around him he was alot of fun. The last time I saw him he had me laughing so hard, he had such a good personality and I am truly sorry for the loss of your son..

Jessica MacKenzie

November 7, 2005

To the Parents and Family of Ben -

My name is Jessica, and my cousin Tyler was in the vehicle with your son the day that all of our lives changed. I know the pain you feel, I know the loss you are going through because my family and I are going through that too. I've read some of the wonderful things people are writing about your son and it is almost like reading about Tyler. I find strength knowing that Tyler and was doing what he believed in, and that he was strong enough, brave enough and honorable enough to do it. I hope that you are finding strength in this as well in your son. God Bless you and your family, and know that there is a famiy not too far away who knows what you all are going through. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. To your son I say thank you for your sacrafice. It will never never never be forgotten.

Chelsea Herzfeld

November 6, 2005

Whenever I think of Ben, I think of the way he told stories that probably shouldn't have been funny, yet it left me laughing until I cried. He was always looking for some type of adventure or cooking up some type of fun, which meant that I was never bored when he was around. I will miss Ben and think often of the last time I saw him and what a great time we had.

My thoughts are with you as you endure this difficult time.

Amy Her

November 5, 2005

My heart sank when I heard about Ben. I was also a member of the Civil Air Patrol program, and met Ben about 5 years ago. Since then he, Kevin and I had stayed close friends. Ben was an amazing man with a smile that would light up any room. His bravery and courage was always something that I admired so much about him. My heart and prayers go out to your family. The loss of your son was a great loss to all of us.

Chaplain Don Mikitta

November 5, 2005

I knew Ben from Civil Air Patrol. It is cadet's of Ben's quality that makes it easy to be committed to support them.

Ben's involvement went beyond the local unit. Ben's dedication to the 2001 Drill team was born out in everything I saw him do.

I have missed having him around the unit, but I knew he was off succeeding somewhere else.

To know he paid the ultimate sacrafice for the people of Iraq and America does sadden us all.

We can only offer our thanks to Ben for having been a part of our lives, and prayers of condolensce to his family and friends.

Lori Sobolewski

November 5, 2005

Whenever Ben was around, I was always laughing! We always had so much fun together on drill team and whenever we hung out together. I can't say that watching Rob Zombie movies was my favorite thing to do, but Ben would make them bearable to watch! He was an awesome, loyal friend that will be missed by all.

Crystel Cramer

November 5, 2005

We are so sorry for the loss of your wonderful son.Words can not express how people feel at a time like this.We are very thankful for these young men and women who are fighting for what they believe in. God bless you and your family and please accept our deepest sympathy.

Gina Johnson

November 5, 2005

I didn't know Ben, but I feel like I did from all the stories that my brother Nick told me about him. They were in CAP together, and Nick says that Ben taught him a lot. He is a better leader and more courageous person for having known Ben. My prayers go out to the Smith family. God Bless our soldiers and their incredible sacrifice.

Lory Hawkins Family

November 5, 2005

Although it's sad to lose those who are very dear to us, there is comfort in remembering all the times they made such a difference in our lives and to our country to make it safe.

Deepest Sympathy to all..

Cindy McLean

November 5, 2005

My heartfelt prayers go out the friends and family of this very special young man. While I did not have the honor of knowing Ben, as a mother of a soldier, I very much know what very special and wonderful people our military are. You have given the ultimate for our country and you will always have my thanks and gratitude. May God Bless you all at this difficult time. God Bless Ben.

"Perhaps they are not the stars but rather openings in Heaven where the love of our dear ones pours through and shines down upon us to let us know they are happy." An Eskimo Legend

Bart Werness

November 5, 2005

I knew ben from civil air patrol. we were in honor guard together, as well as national candet compitition.in fact i have a scarce few civil air patrol memories that dont have him in them. ben we all miss you. our team is now short one man. thank you for your sacrifice.

-Bart Werness

Dave Anger

November 5, 2005

I am sorry for your loss. He gave his life so that we may live free.

Semper Fi

69-72

Thomas Toohey

November 5, 2005

Our condolences to the family and his Hudson community. You are in our prayers.

Mr and Mrs Toohey

Tony Bennett

November 5, 2005

May you family come together to ease the pain. Though I did not know this young man, you have my deepest sympathies.

A minister told me once, " We don't lose someone, we know right where they are. With the angels." May God bless and comfort your family.

George, Beth and Joe Connelly

November 4, 2005

We are so sorry for your loss. Please know you and Benjamin are in our prayers.

Meghan Ellwanger

November 4, 2005

My brother and I knew Ben from our days together in St. Croix Squadron Civil Air Patrol in Stillwater Mn. My brother served on the drill team with him and remembers his dedication. Ben was a smart ambitious young man who will be missed by all who knew him.

Susan Olson Empire Bucket

November 4, 2005

We had the pleasure of knowing and working with Ben - he started with Empire Bucket in August of 2000 his Junior year - as an Apprentice Welder - the program was called "Youth Apprenticeship training Program" with the Hudson High School. He worked about 4 -5 hours per day and more hours during the summer months. We will miss him and we will remember him often - as we walk into our front foyer we have a plaque hanging on the wall called "Raider Award of Appreciation" it has in gold "Ben Smith 2001". Our thoughts and prayers are with his family.

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