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Lance Cpl. Roger D. "Dale" Castleberry Jr.
Roger Castleberry Obituary
Dale Castleberry wanted to be a Marine since his camo-clad childhood, family recalls.
By Asher Price
AMERICAN-STATESMAN STAFF
Thursday, August 04, 2005
Dale Castleberry wanted to be a Marine so badly as a teenager that he transferred from Westwood High in Austin to Round Rock High after he found out Westwood had only an Air Force ROTC program.
On Monday, the 26-year-old sniper with sure hands, quick eyes and a quiet smile was killed in an ambush in a heavily fought-over area of Iraq.
Lance Cpl. Roger D. Castleberry Jr., as the Cedar Park resident was officially known, assigned to the 4th Marine Division in San Antonio, was patrolling near the town of Haditha with a small contingent of other snipers when they apparently were overcome by insurgents, according to news reports.
"He always wanted to be in the military," his sister Heather Kilpatrick said. "He was a G.I. Joe fanatic. Even when it went out of style, he would go all over town to shop for camouflage.
"He wanted to be a Marine from the get-go."
As a boy, he liked wearing camouflage so much that his parents had to assure teachers that he owned more than one outfit, his stepmother, Debbie Castleberry, said.
He had taken his initial dispatch to Iraq with guarded enthusiasm, though he had second thoughts about the length of his commitment once he saw the rough situation there, his brother, Don Castleberry, said.
"He had a very sensitive heart," Debbie Castleberry said. "He was sympathetic to the people suffering there, but most of all he wanted to protect and care for his fellow Marines.
"He's the child that if you were quiet, he would always put a hand on your back and give you a rub and ask you if you needed anything."
Marine Corps service ran in the family.
Don, his older brother, was in the service, as was an uncle, who served three tours in Vietnam. Growing up, Dale Castleberry honed his shooting skills at his grandparents' ranch.
"This is a young man that from the time he was a little kid could think of nothing better to do than to fight for his country," his stepmother said. "He hoped that by going there he could prevent the war from coming back to these shores."
Family members also remembered him for the mean tortilla soup he could cook up, his skill at cards and dominoes, and his athleticism in a swimming pool.
American officials said the six Marines were patrolling near Haditha, one of several cities along the Euphrates River said to make up a main infiltration route for guerrillas entering Iraq.
In a Web posting, Ansar al Sunna, an insurgent group, said it had killed the Marines in a "silent ambush," according to news reports.
According to The Associated Press, several masked men claiming to be insurgents appeared in the city's central market, carrying helmets, flak jackets and rifles they said had belonged to U.S. troops.
"They were on a mountain near the town, so we went up, surrounded them and asked them to surrender," the men said in a leaflet, according to The AP. "They did not surrender, so we killed them."
Besides his stepmother, sister and brother, Dale Castleberry is survived by his wife, Lauren Castleberry; his father, Roger Dale Castleberry Sr.; another sister, Cobi Fletcher; and a great-grandmother, Bertie Paddock.
Memories and Condolences
for Roger Castleberry
191 Entries
Mike Lindsey
June 20, 2019
May God be with you and your family in your time of grief. God bless our troops!!!
Tina McMahon
August 3, 2017
In honor of Dale Jr who served his country.
Tina McMahon
August 3, 2017
Laura, I just happened to see this in facebook. I remember Dale Jr. The description is perfect. I remember when i knew him, he was very young. He did love those fatigues that he wore. I also remember that for his age, he had a very quiet unusual strength about him. May God bless him and all of you.
October 9, 2015
Thinking of you
June 3, 2015
I didn't know Roger but I'm sending my condolences to his family and friends. Micah 4:3,4
Betty Wiebe
August 16, 2014
It has been nine years. I will always remember you kindness and your smile.
October 13, 2013
Love and Miss you "little" Dale. Such a sweet and gentle soul. Coz K.
Peggy Childers
August 1, 2013
To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Roger D. Castleberry:
Always remembering Roger. "Some gave all."
July 30, 2013
Remembering you Dale. Gone so young, but forever with the Lord! ?
Anita C Dziedzic
July 29, 2013
To the six who passed together.
Anita Coullard Dziedzic Dziedzic
July 29, 2013
To all of the family and friends of Lance CPL Roger Castleberry,
I keep you in my heart and prayers
My son SGT David Coullard passed with you solider.
C/SSgt. Jesse Roeser, USAFJROTC, '00 WHS
May 28, 2013
Remembering you this Memorial Day, 2013. God Speed Marine...Rest Easy...
July 4, 2012
Learning about the life and legacy of Roger Castleberry on this 4th of July 2012.
Caleb Hood
May 25, 2012
It's been many years, I still think about you all the time.
Semper Fidelis
Betty Wiebe
November 11, 2011
Remembering you today on Veterans' Day. Rest in peace until we meet again. You were a fine young man, Dale.
John Maly
October 28, 2011
Semper Fi Dale. Rest in peace.
Alex Dehoyos
August 1, 2011
Rest in Peace brother.
Peggy Childers
August 1, 2011
To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Roger D. Castleberry:
Please accept my remembrance of Roger on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Cory Huck
June 6, 2011
Miss ya Dale!
May 30, 2011
I never knew you, young man, but your friend Nancy Baumgart remembers you and asked us to follow your remembrances. I was with the Red Cross during Vietnam and served with the Marines. I'm a great admirer and I appreciate your service.
February 4, 2011
I'm not sure what else to say other than I miss you man. Of everyone that was lost I never expected it to be you.
Peggy Childers
August 2, 2010
To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Roger D. Castleberry:
Remembering Roger 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
Nancy Baumgart
May 31, 2010
We haven't forgotten you, Dale, and we never will . You were a great Marine and will forever be our sweet "Baby Dale"
Stephen Perry
April 1, 2010
I am so sorry to hear of your loss, I lived down the street from Dale and was friends with his older brother Don. We had such good times playing on windermere. Dale was friends with my little brother Christopher, they were the same age and were in kidergarten at the time we had moved there. Dale was good little boy and always had a smile on his face. Are family had moved in 1986 and I had seen him once when I went back to visit the old neighborhood in 1991. I just found out about Dale by viewing this page online and also about his mother Gaye.I myself served my country in the Air Force and have great respect for are Men and Women in uniform. My prayers go out to Dale's family and a special prayer to Heather, Cobi, and Don whom I had such good memories of our time on windermere. Don,Cobi, or heather please email me if you read this at [email protected], it would be nice to talk to you again. your brother turned out to be a great man and a true hero. God Bless Him!
Clifford Johnson
September 18, 2009
To the Castleberry family. I met Dale his senior year in RRHS through ROTC. I was devestated to hear that he had given all for his country. Words cannot express my gratitude for his service and sacrafice. He was a good man and a good friend. My prayers are with your family and hope all his fellow soldiers a speedy return safe and sound. Semper Fi Marine, and Semper Peratus.
Rodger Rohwer
August 9, 2009
I am proud to have had the chance to sponsor a flag in Lcpl. Castleberry's name.
His job is done here on earth, and the lord has a good man to stand by him
through out eternity. Our Prayers are with the family.
Simper Fi Roger
Peggy Childers
August 1, 2009
To the family of Lance Cpl. Roger D. Castleberry:
Roger 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
May 31, 2009
I just wanted to say that I feel honored to recieve a memorial scholarship in your name. Rest in peace Marine.
Semper Fi
Mark Thornberry
Shawn Toler
May 25, 2009
Your sacrifice will never be forgotton.
Col. James Gardon
March 22, 2009
We will continue the fight, you have done your job well Marine, eternal rest and peace.
January 26, 2009
Hi Dale, I am thinking of you.
There was six marines. Strong and stead fast.
Standing Strong and with Honor.
We know that you are looking down on us and looking out for us.
Semper Fi
Anita
Mother of a Marine
Sgt David J Coullard
Sgt Rojas
October 5, 2008
Still thinking of you buddy, still pushing here in the sand for you. I have a watch Castleberry gave me in 05 before he left Hit for Haditha. I'd like to give it to his father, if some one could please email with contact info i would much appreciate it, thank you. [email protected]
In Memory of 'Dale' ~ (Debra Estep)
August 1, 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 'Dale', but I am remembering
his service. 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
Eva Bigongiari
May 26, 2008
It's Memorial Day and you are in my thoughts, Dale. I keep thinking about what was and what could have been. I remember thinking the first time I met you that there was someone who epitomized the title "Marine". I often think back to the last time I saw you. Tony and I had dinner with you and Laurie right before you left for pre-deployment training. You were smiling and joking with us, but there seemed to be something holding you back. You must have been at least a little scared about what you were going into, but you were doing your best not to show it. Tony and I always looked forward to your emails from Iraq. We were so excited the night we happened to be online at the same time as you and got a chance to chat with you in real time. We couldn't wait to have you back here to talk to in person. When you sent Tony the Iraqi Police body armor with a note saying that there was a good story behind it and you'd tell it to him over a few beers, I know Tony was very honored. You left us wondering what that story could be. I have to admit that the body armor gave me a weird ominous feeling, so I put it away in a closet to try to get rid of those thoughts. I really wish you had been able to come home have those beers with us. Tony and I think of you often. We want to be sure that your sacrifice doesn't become just an anonymous number. We'll tell our daughter all about you so that she learns that her freedom comes at a very expensive price. On this Memorial Day and every day, you're not just a memory to us.
P.S. If there are any of Dale's buddies that read this and know the story behind the Iraqi Police body armor, we would love to hear it. You can email me at [email protected]
Jenny
May 12, 2008
Thank you for your sacrifice and service, you will be remembered always and never forgotten, may God continue to bless, protect and shower your family with His Peace.
Cpl Nick Rojas
April 3, 2008
He volunteered. im sitting here in Camp Ramadiand i thought of Castleberry as i often do. i typed his name in and found this. He was my rack mate in Hit. on his last day before travle to Haditha, he gave me his watch, i always bugged him for time. he was an excellent Marine who i defend anytime an active duty marine mentions reservists. i will always remember him and his sacrafice
Kim Weldon
September 14, 2007
My prayers are with your family may you find comfort in knowing he will be remembered. Those who choose to be in the service and put their life on the line for others are truly special people
Bill Castleberry USN ret
September 8, 2007
On the other side of darkness is light.
August 15, 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)
Don Castleberry
August 6, 2007
Dale Jr. is greatly missed and loved. He was one of 8 grandchildren of Don and May Castleberry. We stand proud and honored to know you as our family.
willie sgt sanchez jr
August 2, 2007
I SERVED WITH LCPL CASTLEBERRY HE WAS A GOOD FRIEND.WE BECAME CLOSE FRIENDS AND WATCHED MOVIES IN SO CALLED ROOMS AT FOB HIT. HE CAME INTO MY ROOM THE NIGHT BEFORE HE WENT OUT TO THE FIELD AND WAS SO EXCITED THAT HE WAS GOING ON THIS MISSION. HE SAID THAT HE WAS TIRED OF BEING IN THE FOB AND WANTED TO GO ON A MISSION. SO I WAS HAPPY FOR HIM.HE WAS A OUTSTANDING MARINE AND WILL ALWAYS BE IN MY HEART.I STILL HURT FROM MY YEAR AT FOB HIT.GOD BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU FOR BEING MY FRIEND.
Michael Goyne
August 1, 2007
I knew Dale as a 16 year old boy, as a husband to my daughter, Lauren, and as a Marine. He died doing what he believed in and he will always live in our hearts.
Semper Fi.
Teresa
June 26, 2007
While I did not know you personally, I am in awe of your dedication, courage, and true understanding of standing up for what you believe in. As Amanda's mom, see below, I have certain natural apprehensions about her desire to be a Marine, but I also understand and respect that desire. I want to personally thank Dale's parents for continuing to support the Marine Corps Jr ROTC unit at Round Rock High School through their generous scholarship in his memory. You have some rather large footsteps to fill, Dale, but I do believe Amanda will serve proudly in your honor in the Corps of Cadets at Texas A&M and also in the US Marine Corps.
Amanda Scarborough
June 22, 2007
Dale,
I didn't know you. I hate to say it but you were a little before my time up at RRHS. I am a young one and got there after you graduated. My name is Amanda, and I want to say I'm very proud of all you did. From what I've heard about you, you were an amazing person with dedication and honor. I was honored enough with the priveledge to earn a scholarship this year in your name. I would gladly give that scholarship up if it could get you back, but life doesn't always work out the way we want it to. So instead, I would like to thank you for your dedication and courage. I would like to thank your parents for selecting me for the scholarship. I only hope I can live my life with half of the courage and honor you had. I'll do my best and I won't let you down!
Once a Marine, Always a Marine.
Semper Fi
David Johnstun
May 28, 2007
Dale,
It is Memorial Day. I miss you man. I miss the days we had. I am doing what I can to look after your love Laurie. I have a Daughter, Angel, and me and my wife are due again in the next few weeks. I love you man.
Kadie
Auriana castleberry
March 30, 2007
i believe that everything happens for a reason and for some reason today i come to this we share the same name possibly the same blood may you be at peace and look down on me
Roger D. Young Jr.
March 28, 2007
God Speed to a Hooah Marine!
CW3 Roger D. Young Jr.
Teri Lyn
March 8, 2007
It saddens me greatly that our country has lost this great American. I'm so sorry to read of your loss.
Peter Logan
November 13, 2006
Lance Cpl. Castleberry looks a lot like a very good friend of mine who died in South Vietnam in 1967. His name was Cpl. Roger Allen Castle. For all of you who wore the uniform, I am proud to call you my heroes.
Mindy Sanchez
November 10, 2006
You will not be forgotten on this Veteran's Day. May you rest in peace knowing so many love and miss you. You made the ultimate sacriface for our freedom and we thank you.
Linda hartwell (Sandeen)
November 1, 2006
sorry to hear of your loss
Amanda Goyne
August 2, 2006
To my big brother,
Not a day goes by that I don't think of you. I know you are still with me because I can feel you giving me some of your courage each day. I just wish you were here in person instead. Our family misses you more than words can express, and you are in our hearts and our thoughts each day....your memory will not fade.
Love always, your little sister (in-law) Mandy
Shelli Miller
August 2, 2006
Dear Laurie and Allie,
I am keeping your family in my thoughts and I hope that I will hear from you Allie. I have not forgotten about you!
Your paramedic
Garnet Jenkins
August 1, 2006
Remembering this Young Marine, on the anniversary of the day he gave his Life for our country. With a Multitude of Thanks for his service and dedication.
Rest well Lance Cpl. Roger D. Castleberry and know that you will NEVER BE FORGOTTEN.
May God's Grace and comfort, continue to be with the Castleberry family.
From the sister of a Fallen young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam. KIA~1967.
"Nor shall your Glory be forgot
While Fame her record keeps,
Or Honor points to the hallowed spot,
Where Valor proudly sleeps."
-by Theodore O'Hara
ROBYN GARSIDE
July 11, 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 FOR YOU. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Gale Brazier
June 9, 2006
May God bless you and yours and comfort you in this loss. My heart aches, and to Mindy Sanchez's husband, best friend in Iraq, thank you for serving with Roger. Remember, be gentle with yourselves. Love,a grandmother in Texas
Debi Romans
June 9, 2006
To The Castleberry Family,
Some Give little, You are some of the ones who give all.
I do not know you, I never knew your son, because he fought for my freedom, and gave all, I want to say "thanks" and you all will be in my prayers.
Pat Canfall
June 9, 2006
My condolences to the Castleberry family. Roger may you rest in peace. Thank you for making the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom. You have earned your golden halo and wings. May you continue to soar in the heavenly clouds up above.
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
June 9, 2006
Rest in peace at your last post in paradise.
Linda Flannery
June 8, 2006
To the family of Lance Cpl Castleberry
Please accept my sympathies on the loss of Roger.
He truly is a Hero of our Nation.
My flag flies in his honor and in honor of all of our Marines and Soldiers.
Proud mom of 2 Marines and widow of a VietNam Army Ranger.
brandi smith
April 27, 2006
hi i luv this site
Stephanie McCullough -Villegas
March 17, 2006
I just found out about little Dale yesterday. I still remember all the fun days on Windermere. I would like the family to know how much Dale and your entire family means to me. I'm truely sorry for your lose. I will remember all the good times forever.
Betty Wiebe
February 27, 2006
I just found out on Saturday, February 25th, while reading the March issue of TEXAS MONTHLY that Dale Jr. passed away. Dale Jr. was a fine young man, and I will always remember his kindness. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
February 27, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Castleberry family in the loss of Roger. I did not know Roger, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person 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. Roger it is coming up on seven months since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten.
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~
Mindy Sanchez
February 6, 2006
To the Castleberry family,
My husband was Dale's bestfriend in Iraq. His squad was attached to their company. He and Dale hung out alot together in their off time. He misses his friend more than words can say. I mailed a card to the your family and want you to know that my husband was very close to your son and he is still hurting from the lose of his friend. I have heard stories and wish that I could have met him. My husband is alot like your son. I guess that is why they got along so well. Just know that he is missed greatly.
Fran Pitzer
January 24, 2006
As an American, I wish to send my sympathies to your family in the loss of your military hero and to express my thanks for his job well done. I will pray for you.
Aleta Goyne
September 6, 2005
Dale Jr. was my son in law. He and our daughter Laurie were high school sweethearts so we met him when he was 16 years old. We were honored to watch him mature from wonderful teenager to an even more wonderful young man. We gave our kids, Dale Jr. and Laurie a fairy tale wedding on Feb 17, 2000. They were a wonderful couple, a very loving couple. Dale Jr. was a very big part of our close knit family. Our kids came to dinner many a weekend and every holiday, birthday etc. Dale Jr. loved chicken fried steak, green beans and bacon, home made mashed potatoes and cheesecake. He always had a very hearty appetite and made me proud to cook for him. He made my husband Mike and I proud of him for too numerous reasons to list. He was a wonderful husband and a wonderful son to us. He had a shy smile, a great sense of humor and he always knew when I could use a hug. God knows I wish I could hug him now. Thankfully our daughter Laurie was able to talk to him and tell him how much she loved him several days before he was killed. Our family, all of us have lost significant pieces of our hearts with the death of this wonderful, courageous, sweet, loving young man. Our pain will forever remind us just how important a part of our family he was and will always be. Rest in peace honey, we miss you so much it hurts. I keep expecting you to walk up the sidewalk and give me a hello hug. Laurie misses you desperately and your little sister in law misses you greatly as well. You will always be in our hearts and in our prayers. We are grateful that you have been reunited with your mama Gaye. We love you and will see you later honey. Ali/mom
Jerri Ikuta
September 4, 2005
There's nothing that can be said to make the hurt go away. There is nothing that I can do that will make it better. My heart breaks for you. Please know that you are in my thoughts. I love you. Your cousin, Jerri
Sarah Stroh
September 2, 2005
I meet Lance Cpl. Castleberry when I attended his wedding he was very charming and a gentelman.
Paula Sharpe
August 20, 2005
To Big Dale, Heather, Donnie, and all of Dale's family, I cannot begin to express my sadness about Little Dale. From the time I met him in his 2nd grade class, until he was a grown, married man, I always thought of Dale as my other son. He and Jeremy were together every day, and Dale went on every vacation, every camping trip, every coast trip with us. I never planned anything without him in it. I never saw him angry. He helped me with anything I needed, and my heart will always have a hole in it where he belongs. We all loved Dale, and the world has lost an incredible soul. I only wish you all could have known him like we did. I'm so proud of you Dale, in everything you did, in life and in death.
Jeremy Biscoe
August 19, 2005
I don't even know where to begin. I met Dale in Mrs. Smith's 2nd grade class at Laurel Mtn. Elementary, and he instantly became my best friend. We were inseperable all the way until 9th grade when I moved from Austin. As days turned into weeks and weeks turned into months, the two of us drifted apart for some unknown reason. Mostly my fault I know and I am so sorry Dale. I still have the letters and pictures you sent me and my mom and I still have the hundreds of home videos of us growing up together. You are truly the best friend I have ever had and I can't believe you are gone. My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to the Castleberry family and his loved ones. I will forever regret not being the friend to you that you were to me. I will miss you forever. I love you Dale.
Peggy Thomas
August 18, 2005
To the family of Dale Castleberry,
I only heard of the loss of your brave young man today, and I wanted to say how very sorry I am for your extreme pain. I didn't know him, and I don't know your family, but I am an American, and the death of any of our fine soldiers grieves me horribly. I admire each and every one, and know they all have places in Heaven. Thank you for the gift of your selfless child and husband.
Sarah Perry
August 16, 2005
To the Castleberry Family,
My deepest sympathies go out to you for your loss. I did not know Dale personally but I can tell he was a fine young man who believed in what he was fighting for. May God grant you comfort during this difficult time. My prayers are with you and his loved ones.
Barbara Miller
August 15, 2005
Dear Family of Dale,
I sit here in tears reading of your loss, and one so young. I myself Have three sons, the eldest 21. I can not begin to imagine your pain. Be proud of your beloved, and his death will never be in vain. I am so sorry. It is the bravery of men like Dale and the sacrifices of families as yours that make America the great place it is, and keeps us out of harms way! You will see your beloved Dale again!
A poem a beloved priest always closes Mass with:
May the Road Rise to Meet You,
May the Wind Blow at your back,
May the Sun shine warmly on you face,
May the rain fall softly on your fields,
And until we meet again,Until we meet again,
May God Hold you in the palm of his hands - dearest Dale!
Barbara Miller
August 15, 2005
Dear Family of Dale,
I sit here in tears reading of your loss, and one so young. I myself Have three sons, the eldest 21. I can not begin to imagine your pain. Be proud of your beloved, and his death will never be in vain. I am so sorry. It is the bravery of men like Dale and the sacrifices of families as yours which make America the great place it is, and keeps us out of harms way! You will see your beloved Dale again!
A poem a beloved priest always closes Mass with:
May the Road Rise to Meet You,
May the Wind Blow at your back,
May the Sun shine warmly on you face,
May the rain fall softly on your fields,
And until we meet again,Until we meet again,
May God Hold you in the palm of his hands - dearest Dale!
My most heartfelt sympathy!
Trenda Osborne
August 14, 2005
My mother called and left a message..."Honey, at church they mentioned a Castleberry was killed in the line of duty. Do you think it could be one of the kids you went to school with?" I prayed that it wasn't...went to the computer and did a search....there was Dale.
Though I barely knew Dale, I did see him every day. Fighting the enemy in his front yard from the time he was a small child. I am so sorry to hear about your loss. I hope you know that my family has you in their prayers. We are also thankful for Dale. You should be very proud. You raised the kind of man that has the courage it takes to stand up and fight for what he believed in.
My love and deepest sympathy to your family, Heather and Don(nie)
Heather Kilpatrick
August 14, 2005
To the friends I know and the friends I have not yet met who took the time to reach out to our family during this difficult time, I am forever grateful . Your kind words of sympathy and support mean so much. My family and I are so proud of Dale and of all the men and women who serve our country in such a selfless manner. My brother's memory will live on in my heart and in my mind and he will never be forgotten. He was not only a hero but a great little brother.
Love ya Dale. I miss you already.
Give Mom a hug and I know we'll be together again someday.
Honored to be Dale's sister,
Heather Kilpatrick
August 14, 2005
Dear Family,
Gratitude is the hardest of all emotions to express. There is no words capable of conveying all that one feels until we reach a world where thoughts can be adequately expressed so with this we say "Thank You"
When life hurts.
God shows us He cares
through one another.
May God be with you at this time!
Dale and his loving Mom, Gaye Castleberry
August 14, 2005
chloe english (briscoe)
August 13, 2005
To the Castleberry family,
Me and my frined Katie(Mitchelle) had the pleasure of growing up with Dale. Dale was a great guy, always the one to make you feel better when you needed a friend. My thoughts are with you at this sad time.We will always remember.
Frances
August 13, 2005
To The Family of Lance Cpl. Castleberry:
I can not write enough words here to express my gratitude to you and your beloved "Dale" for the sacrific you have made so that America can still be the geatest nation on earth and that we can live freely. I offer my condolences and I also offer my greatest respect to this young American who forever shall be an American hero.
May his family and friends find comfort in the coming days and I hope that you know your loved one is one of the finest men who ever walked upon the face of this world.
Many people worship movie stars or athletes but I worship the heroes that are willing to sacrifice their lives for someone they don't even know exists just because we all live in this great nation called The United States.
Anne Muzos
August 13, 2005
We were so saddened to hear of Dale's death in Iraq. Please accept our deepest sympathy for your loss. Your son was such a brave young man, one of the best this country has to offer and I know you must have been so very proud of him! I have great admiration for his devotion to country and others that seek freedom from tyranny. Please know that you and your son have sacrificed so much for this great country of ours. It's because of young men like these, past and present, that our country has remained free. God bless you.
In Christian love,
Anne Muzos <> <
LCPL Roger Dale Castleberry in the Command Operations Center at Camp Hit, Jul 2005
CDR Glenn F. Thibault
August 13, 2005
Dear family & friends of LCPL Castleberry,
I am the Battalion Surgeon and religious layleader at Camp Hit. Dale spent much of his time in Iraq working in the Command Operations Center here, and working closely the the corpsmen and I as well, before requesting to join the sniper team. He was a great Marine, energetic, always with a smile. I will miss him a lot.
One of our last interactions was his coming to the worship service at Camp Hit a few weeks ago and staying afterward for prayer. He said, during the service, that his best friend in the states died recently and requested prayer for his family and the friend's fiancee.
I have a couple photos of Dale I will submit for the guestbook. They are all I have and may be the last ones of him.
May the Lord bless and keep you and hold you tight in His loving arms during these times.
Sincerely,
Barbara White
August 12, 2005
I'm sorry I did not know Dale in person.I am sure he was a wonderful son and husband. My Daughter went home to be with the Lord on June 16th 2005. I know how it hurts to lose a child and weather they are 4 or 40 they are our child. I will pray for God's comfort and peace to be with the entire family.God Bless You all.
joann varichak
August 12, 2005
thank you for your sacriface to your country,my deepest sympathy for your family and friends
Katie Dobson
August 11, 2005
I did not know Lance Cpl. Castleberry, but we have also just recently lost a member of our family in Iraq. While nothing I can say will ease the pain, please know that others truly care. Our condolences go out to your entire family and friends. God bless Dale, those who loved him, and God bless our troops. May they come home soon.
The Dobson's
Joyce Goode
August 11, 2005
First I want to say thank you, Roger, for defending our country! You're a hero.
Family, my prayers and throughts are with you at this most difficult time. May God continue to bless and keep you!
Madeleine Dimond
August 11, 2005
Deepest sympathies to all Dale's family and friends. I did not know him, but I am so sorry for all the young lives lost in Iraq and Afghanistan. I honor Dale for fulfilling his commitment and serving his country the best he could. My prayers are with you.
Denise Lemons
August 11, 2005
Although I don't know Dale, my heart hurts for his family and friends. May God comfort you all in this time of loss. As always, I will pray for those we've lost and those still living. God bless America and our brave military personnel!
C.A. OWENS
August 11, 2005
I did not know Dale, but I want his hamily to know they will be in my prayers. He is a true HERO.
Susan Davis
August 11, 2005
My deepest sympathy to the Castleberry family, especially to Rogers loving wife Lauren.All prayers in Jesus.
Bill & Chrsitne Estela
August 10, 2005
Dale, I remember talking to you right after September 11, 2001, you were hanging an American flag outside your house. I told you that I would like to hang an American flag outside my house but every store I went to have sold out. The next thing I know you were giving me one of your American flags, but when you handed me the flag I thought it was strange in the way you handed it to me, my impression was more like you were presenting the flag to me. I remember thinking that this is an odd way to hand somebody a flag, than I realized talking to myself “you dummy Dale is a Marine this is how a Marine shows their respect and pride for what the American flag represents”. You also gave me specific and detailed instructions on how I needed to hang, handle, honor and respect what the American flag stands for. That day I realize how much the Marine Corps meant to you, how proud you were being a Marine, and what it meant to you to be able to serve your country.
You were not only our next door neighbor on Canterfield Lane, we considered you and Lauren our friends. When I was moving you help me move, I had not asked for your help but some how you knew I desperately needed your help.
It is an honor and a privilege to have known you as a Neighbor, Marine, Hero, and a Friend; we will miss you but will never forget you or your sacrifice.
Lauren, I know there is nothing we can say to help you with your loss. You thanked Christine and I more than once for attending the memorial and funeral services for Dale, but there was no need to, it was an honor and privilege to be allowed to attend and say goodbye.
Michael Iezzi
August 10, 2005
My thoughts and prayers to the family of Lance Cpl Roger D. Castleberry Jr.. May God Hold Roger in the palm of His hand.
Yolanda Valdez
August 10, 2005
Another Fallen Hero --- My deepest condolences and prayers to the entire Castleberry family.
The courage and service from all the men and women for our country will not be forgotten.
Yesterday, Today, Forever - Semper Fi - Marines!
Very Proud Marine Mom
Lance Cpl. Nicholas S. Perez - KIA 9-3-04 - Al Anbar Province, Iraq)
Donna Dent
August 10, 2005
I am a former Castleberry Instruments & Avionics employee where we all worked together as a "family unit" and geniunely cared about each other. Dale Jr's grandmother, May Castleberry, often took the opportunity to express to us that she was "so proud of all the good people working there."
I would like to express the same gratitude on behalf of myself and others in the extended "Castleberry family." We are all so proud of Dale Jr. and thankful for his bravery and determination to fight for our freedom.
Sincerely,
Jeri Dunn
August 9, 2005
I was Honored to meet Dale Castleberry as as young boy. I am his Mother's (Gaye Dale) cousin Jeryl Dean Atwood Dunn. Living in Colorado made my contact with his family very limited. As a youg women Gaye and I had spent a few precious times shopping, going out to eat, and just goofing off together. I can tell that in writting a family genealogy book that I will make sure that his hertiage will show all the articles I can collect from various points. His GrandFather, Bill Atwood is most proud of him, and in his eyes, as well as mine Dale died a hero. We will all miss him greatly. May God grant each persson connected to him in any peace at this time of mourning.
With Familia Love,
Jeri Dunn
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