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Elmwood High School

Benjamin Desilets Obituary

ELMWOOD - Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets, 21, of Elmwood died Tuesday, May 22, 2007, in Anbar Province, Iraq, while serving with the U.S. Marine Corps.

He was born Jan. 16, 1986, in Rochester, Mich., to Ronald Desilets and Brenda Beckman-Desilets.

He is survived by his daughter, Kyra Coyle-Desilets; his parents, Brenda Beckman-Desilets of Elmwood and Ronald Desilets of Auburn Hills, Mich.; two sisters, Laura Desilets of Galesburg and Hannah Desilets of Elmwood; grandparents, Bill and Zana (Bond) Beckman of Elmwood; aunts and uncles, Rob (Susan) Beckman of Mapleton, Terry (Judi) Desilets of Sterling Heights, Mich., Karen Darling of Kentucky and Dave (Diane) Kurmas of Troy, Mich.; and many beloved members of our extended family.

Ben was a 2004 graduate of Elmwood High School.

Funeral services will be at 10:30 a.m. Friday at the Elmwood High School auditorium. The Rev. Rory Bond will officiate.

Visitation will be from 4 to 8 p.m. Thursday at the Elmwood High School auditorium. At the beginning of the visitation, there will be a ceremony promoting Ben to corporal. Also, the Purple Heart and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat V will be awarded to Ben's daughter and mother during the ceremony.

Burial with military honors will be at Fondulac Township Cemetery in East Peoria, Ill.

Oaks-Hines Funeral Home in Elmwood is in charge of arrangements.

Memorials may be made to Operation Home Front (www.operationhomefront.net) or to The Children's Home in Peoria.

Online condolences are available at www.oakshinesfuneralhome.com.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Peoria Journal Star on May 30, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Benjamin Desilets

91 Entries

Devin Cary

June 12, 2025

I didn’t know who you were until today when I walked past your resting place and noticed your picture and your birthday. You were born the same year I was bro, and that stopped me in my tracks. Your bravery and courage is felt and appreciated still and I stopped and thanked you. I wanted to look you up and know the man I was honoring. Thank you for your service. Thank you for the beautiful life I am able to enjoy today. Thank you for defending me. Right beforehand I had given a small amount of money to a group of young ladies having a a lemonade stand near the cemetery where you are at rest, may that be in your honor as well as my future continues to the betterment of the world you helped keep. Rest in peace brother. You aren’t forgotten by those that didn’t get to know you. I promise you and your family that.

November 25, 2014

Love and missyou buddy.

Kelly Bumgarner

May 22, 2014

We have not forgotten Ben. Never will.

Jonathan Sebo

June 18, 2013

I'll never forget serving with Ben. He'll be remembered always and I speak for all of my Marine brethren when I say he was truly one of us and will be sorely missed.

May 24, 2013

Thank you so much for not forgetting Ben -- from his family - Kyra, Brenda, Laura, Hannah and Zana

Kelly Bumgarner

May 22, 2013

Ben we have not, nor shall we ever, forget.

November 23, 2012

My eternal gratitude is offered to Lance Cpl Benjamin Desilets. He will always be remembered for his sacrifice.

Peggy Childers

May 22, 2012

To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets:
Always remembering Benjamin. "Some gave all."

Lynne Neibert

June 16, 2011

Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected]) is an organization with groups throughout the country who strive to send handmade prayer shawls and/ or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one in service to our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church in Mechanicsburg, PA would like to honor your son’s sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a shawl which we will mail to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses and what they would like to receive. We will send them as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved one who died serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address, as our organization can no longer get family contacts through the military. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne

Peggy Childers

May 22, 2011

To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets:
Please accept my remembrance of Benjamin on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.

Aaron Wolf

October 6, 2010

Semper Fi Leatherneck

Wolfy

Peggy Childers

May 22, 2010

To the family and friends of Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets:
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

Jonathan Campos

March 10, 2010

To the family of "Desilets".
My name is Sgt. Jonathan G. Campos. I'm a Combat Instructor serving at the School of Infantry (West) Camp Pendleton, Ca. I went through Boot Camp with Bennie, back in Sept 2004, we graduated and walked off the "Grinder" Dec 3, 2004. I never had the honor to serve withhim in Combet, however I did get to spend the three most memorable months a Marine has, BOOT CAMP. He was a great recruit to have in the Platoon, a character at times he made me laugh. Every Platoon has a Desilets, and he was awesome. The Drill Instructors picked on him a bit, but not because he was a bad recruit, its just because D.I.'s like to pick on a specific few just because. He was a good man and soul. Always did what was good for the group, I remember during one of our hikes in 2nd phase. We were coming up on the finish, and we were in the back hurtin and we were helping eachother keep up our spirits, all sweaty and exhausted, and beat. We made that hike. He slept a few bunks down from me so we never got to have alot of one on one time, but before we went to bed we would have about an hour of free time, but that would mostly be spent on yourself. When I found out about his passing over seas, hed already been gone for about a year. Thats when I found him on www.marines.togetherweserved.com. Thats when I found out about his daughter, I cant remember if he told me about her in boot camp. But, one day I would like to take the chance and oppurtunity to meet her, and tell her some stories about the time I knew Ben. My condolences, He will never be forgotten to this Marine.

Jason Pennington

January 22, 2010

To the family of Benjamin Desilets, I served with Ben both tours in Iraq. I can remember Ben always having a smile on his face. Even when times were rough. There was Ben always with a smile. I can remember when he talked about Kiera that his smile would go from one cheek to the other, and his cheeks would get a bright red.
I thank you for having such a wonderful son.
"Semper Fi"
Cpl. Pennington Jason, D

Kelly Bumgarner

May 26, 2009

It does not seem like two years since we lost Ben. But it is good that it stays fresh in the memory. We should not forget, ever.

May 25, 2009

Ben,
Thank you for giving your life for me and for our country. Two years ago on Friday, May 23, was a day that I thought of you, your Mom, Kiera, sisters, grandma and extended family. You will always be missed. Yesterday, at my niece's high school graduation, the prinicipal announced all the graduates who would be entering the military service. There were 15 who will be fighting for our country like you did and it brought a lump in my throat knowing what you did for me and for my family. Thinking of you on this Memorial Day.
Semper Fi
Doug and Angie Shull
Morton, IL

Peggy Childers

May 22, 2009

To the family of Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets:
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

Veterans Day 08

March 10, 2009

Kenna Larra

January 20, 2009

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,300 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,
Kenna

Pastor Frank Noyes

September 15, 2008

Dear family of Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets,

We want to say thank you. We understand that no words can be adequate for your sorrow. We certainly do not want to intrude upon your privacy. As Americans we want you to know that we deeply appreciate the ultimate sacrifice your loved one has made for all of us. We also would like for you to be aware that with this letter comes our special concern and prayers for you. We are all safer because young men and women who love their country, and know the value of a free nation, are willing to put themselves in harms way, and lay down their lives to keep this nation free and safe for all of us.
Your sacrifice is also very great. We know that we can give little comfort; however, the knowledge that your loved one did not die in vain, but died in the service of our country, gives each of us a noble example of the value of life, and the responsibility of freedom. We hope this will bring pride and comfort to you.
We at Gethsemane Church believe that there is purpose to life. We send this letter with our deepest appreciation for the greatest of sacrifices, you and your loved one have given to this country. We know it is not enough, but please allow us to assure you that your loved one is not forgotten.

Very Sincerely

Frank G. Noyes
Frank G. Noyes (Pastor)

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
(Jn. 15:13)

June 27, 2008

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Lance Cpl Desilets!

In Memory of Benjamin ~ (Debra Estep)

May 22, 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. 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

Visit this link to hear the song.

The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol

Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

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

Please contact me and I will email you back a copy of my
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.

Angie Shull

April 22, 2008

Ben,
Today, is the 22nd of April and I cannot believe that it will soon be almost one year on May 22nd that you gave your life for us and for our freedom. Whenever I am driving and come aross a Marine flag flying at someone's house, I think of that Marine and his family but most of all I think of you, your Mom, Kiera, your sisters, your grandparents and all your extended family. Semper Fi
Doug & Angie (Ramos) family

Dennis Desilet

April 20, 2008

To The Desilets Family- Ben's death and your sacrifice will never be forgotten. May God bless and comfort you everyday. With respect and gratitude, Dennis A. Desilet, CMSgt, USAF retired

Angie Shull

March 25, 2008

Ben,
You would be so proud of your mom. She is strong even though her heart is broken of losing you. I saw Kiera a few weeks ago and she is such a beautiful little girl. Whenever I hear on the television or radio of another son, daughter, husband, brother, or a Dad who gave their life for me and others here in America, I always think of you, too, who sacrified everything for my freedom. Ben, when I see a shining star in the dark sky....I see you! Semper Fi....I miss your smiling face.
Angie (co-worker and friend of Ben's mom, Brenda)

JASON CORTES

December 20, 2007

I am Cpl. Cortes. I was in the third truck of four when Desilets was killed. i was able to geet 1 marine out but we lost two great guys that night including desilets. He was a great marine and a great friend.

Peggie Writtenhouse

October 4, 2007

My deepest and most heartfelt sympathy to the family of Benjamin Desilets. Thanks for your Soldier's Courage, Service and Dedication to our Country and Freedom.
The price he and his family have paid, will never be forgotten.
In the days to come if you find yourself feeling like you can‘t go on , recall the years and days you were blessed by his presence, this is the one thing that cannot be taken away from you are your memories, may you find comfort there and may God’s Peace strengthen you through the difficult days ahead and the emptiness in your hearts!
I am the Sister of a hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in 2005 in Taji, Iraq and time does make it hurt less.

"And God shall wipe away every tear from their eyes,
there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying,
there shall be no more pain.
For the former things have passed away."
Revelations 21:4

NOW SERVING IN GOD’S ARMY
In His Memory,
Master Sgt James F. Hayes
1st Battalion, 320th Field Artillery Regiment, 101st Airborne Division Fort Campbell KY

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)

August 15, 2007

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Lance Cpl Desilets and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

Denise Friedman

July 18, 2007

I walked around the State Capitol in Sacrametno during the Veteran Walks to End the War, and I chose your son's name to walk for. After walking in his name and honor, I wanted to know more about him, and I found this website.
God bless you, and all the ones he left behind. His soul is with Jesus forever with the angels - waiting for you to join him.

STEVE AND DEB ALLEN

July 13, 2007

TO THE FAMILY OF BEN,
OUR FAMILY SENDS ITS LOVE AND PRAYERS TO YOU FOR YOUR SACRIFICE WE ALL WILL NEVER FORGET. PLEASE KNOW WITH A HEAVY HEART WE DO KNOW HOW HARD THESE TIMES ARE FOR YOU.
OUR SON WAS KILLED ON 2-28-07 A DAY FOREVER ETCHED IN OUR MEMORIES. YET WITH THE LOVE FROM OUR MARINE FAMILY AND THIS PLACE OF LOVE TO ALL, WE HAVE FOUND SOME PEACE IN OUR HEARTS. AS THE TEARS FLOW AND THE MEMORIES ARE DAILY REMEMBERED PLEASE KNOW THE SMILES BRING PEACE TO THE MOMENT. WITH LOVE AND PRAYERS TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY, MAY WE ALL FIND PEACE IN OUR HEARTS.
WITH LOVE AND PRAYERS
THE PROUD PARENTS OF OUR HERO
SGT. CHAD M. ALLEN 2-28-07
2ND LAR BAT.

Lee Sirotnak

July 8, 2007

My heart is heavy as I think of your family in this time of loss, and thankful for Benjamin’s courage and sacrifice. You are in my prayers as I ask God to bring you peace and comfort. We will not forget.

gayla satterfield

June 28, 2007

Brenda and family, My thoughts and prayers are with you all. Ben will not be forgotten. I pray for your family daily. God Bless you

Tim and Gayla Satterfield
Del Rio Tx

ROBYN GARSIDE

June 27, 2007

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

S. Karl

June 24, 2007

I am writing to let your family know how sorry I am for your loss. I feel such sadness to be writing in another guestbook, but I feel I need to continue because it is vital that you know how many people are thinking of you at this difficult time.

Amanda Willard

June 18, 2007

To Ben's family.. Ben was an amazing man. He sacraficed his life for our freedom. He will never be forgotten. He was an awesome Marine, damn good daddy..and he will forever be in my heart!!!!!

Melita Campos

June 18, 2007

Brenda, Ron, Laura & Hannah,

I am Fernando & Maria Campos' youngest daughter (brown hair), and I remember growing up with your family at church when I was a kid.

I want to thank your family, your son, for the ultimate sacrifice.

He is a true hero, and there is a special place in Heaven for Ben. And I can't wait until I can see him there and thank him for defending my freedom.

It seems these days, every time I turn around, either myself, or a friend has lost another friend or loved one in this war. Their course is so bravely run; it is an honor to have known Ben.

Please accept my sincerest condolences, and know that time does not heal all wounds, but love surely will.

Trust in the Lord with all of thy heart and lean not to thine understanding; but in all of thy ways acknowledge him and he shall direct thy path.

This choir song popped in my head when I was thinking of all us kids sitting the "young kids" family section at church. And I saw Ben laughing about something, don't remember what, I just remember the laughing.

God bless you, you are in my heart and my prayers.

If you need anything just ask.

Love,

Melita Campos

Alene Halcom

June 17, 2007

My deepest sympathies for your loss. He was my grandson's buddy
{LCPL James McManus}. May God give you peace. He will never be forgotten. My prayers are with all who loved him.

Thomas Lash

June 17, 2007

Lord, hold our troops in your loving hands. Protect them as they protect us. Bless them and their families for the selfless acts they perform for us in our time of need. I ask this in the name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior. Amen."

James McManus

June 12, 2007

You will never be forgotten bro. You were always there to make anyone have a brighter day. If I ever felt down you were there to tell me to stick it out and the good days will come.

Glen

June 8, 2007

“Paid in Full”
To Honor The Service of Fallen and Injured Marines

Marines through and through, they paid the price
Six thousand miles away, we live the life
For which they paid with their blood, spirits and bodies
We will never forget what they paid in full

We hope and we pray that somehow their loved ones find comfort
In God, in the flag, in the memory of their loved ones’ bravery
They’re gone now but we see them still…proud, strong, willing
Covering each other’s backs… courageous, moving forward

What kind of love did they have for us to be willing
To give all for the Black, White, Jew, Christian, Muslim?
We don’t comprehend but we honor you now and forever
You are Our Marines…some living…some not
Forever in our hearts we will cherish your lives

Lives too short yet immortal they’ll be
Highest brotherhood of the Few, the Proud
They stand at attention, and we gaze with awe
Some know their names not, but our admiration for them
Flows limitless within us, between us

They sacrificed their limbs or their lives
Freedom still rings, a soft sound across the miles
It tolls slowly; all of creation takes note
Of lives that were lost for people unknown

Out of sight but not lost; forever among us
The starched blues marching straight
Toward the place where we will meet them
Many years from now…how we loved them…
Well done beloved Brothers and Sisters…You’ve paid it in full
Always Faithful Marines, You Have Paid it in Full

Ann Marie Bloxom

June 6, 2007

Dear Benjamin's family,
I want to thank you for Benjamin's bravery. He must of learn how to give of himself for others from all of you. Even though you do not know me, I want to let you know I feel for all of you and thank you again for his service.

Dick Neal

June 6, 2007

To the family of Ben Desilets
My deepest sympathy on your loss of Ben.
He has given the ultimate in order that we can live in peace. Ben was truly an American hero.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.
May God Bless You.

Laken Murphy

June 4, 2007

To Ben's family-
I'm so sorry for your loss. Comming from a military family I know what it means to loose someone you love overseas. I, infact will be leaving for Iraq shortly. Stay strong and keep in mind that he died serving his country. And nothing, in my eyes, is more honorable then that. You should be proud. I know I am.

Tom Gugliuzza-Smith

June 4, 2007

My heartfelt sympathy to the Desilets family in the loss of Benjamin. I did not know Benjamin, 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. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Benjamin you are my 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~

Doug and Angie Shull

June 3, 2007

Brenda, Laura, Hannah, Zana, Bill, Rob, Susan, and beautiful little Kyra,
As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends. Our hearts ache for you so much and tears flow for you as you have sacrificed Ben in letting him go and do what he wanted to do for our country. He is our HERO and we will thank God for him every day for giving his life for us. Ben's death has made an impact on our lives and we WANT to do more for those who are serving our country and for those families who have lost their loved one by also sacrificing their sons/daughters for us. I have been blessed to have met him when he was 6 years old to becoming that fine, young Marine. I will always remember his smile. Whatever we can do for you, please let us know and we'll be there. We will keep you in our prayers every day and the days ahead. We love you all and we love Ben.

Jerry & Jeannie Terando

June 1, 2007

We offer you our heartfelt sympathies, and pray for God's peace to be with you.
Gold Star Family of:
Sgt. Joshua A. Terando
(KIA/Iraq-10 Nov 05)

Dan Boyer, Pastor Community Fellowship Church, Petersburg IL. (Retired E-6 USAF)

June 1, 2007

I’m am sorry for your loss. I read most all of the others who’ve offered up sympathy and condolences to your family. It is a nice thing today to have this type of forum to offer for families of hero’s such as Ben, and to see all the different people from different states that read and leave their statement of kindness with you all. I too offer a shoulder to lean on and another venue to vent your expressions of loving memories to when you ever feel the need. Ben gave the ultimate sacrifice. Ben is a true hero and will never be forgotten. May God, Our heavenly Father bring you comfort and healing in your time of troubles and grief.

Ginny Howard

June 1, 2007

Another piece of my heart breaks when a soldier is lost. May God wrap his loving arms around your family and His grace see you through this sorrowful time. May Ben rest in peace and his family be proud of their Marine. We thank him and those who have gone before as well as those who still serve. I am My Soldier's Mom.

Karen McLaren

June 1, 2007

I'm so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Paula Strandquist

June 1, 2007

On behalf of our group we would like to share our deepest sympathy.
You are in our prayers.

Heart of Illinois Military Moms

Linda Clifton

June 1, 2007

My thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

Carolyn Evans

May 31, 2007

My heart goes out to the famiy of Benjamin D. Desilets. Gold Star mother.

Paul Desilets LCDR USN (Ret.)

May 31, 2007

My thoughts are with your family in this time of greiving.

Susan Kennedy

May 31, 2007

My deepest sympathy to you and your family. I will pray for all of you to have God's Comfort.

Trudy Lowe

May 31, 2007

My heartfelt sympathies to your family. My heart breaks with each new name added to this list, and I am saddened by your loss. Know that you are surrounded by prayers, grace and the deep gratitude of all who live in freedom. My God hold you in his arms and grant you peace. Please find joy in the memories of your loved one and comfort knowing so many are holding you in their hearts.

Peggy Campbell

May 31, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss as a family and sorry for the loss of another brave soldier that has given the ultimate sacrifice. May he rest in peace and be in your memories and heart forever.God Bless you all.

Sue Hanks

May 31, 2007

Ben gave the ultimate sacrifice for his country. His family and friends should be very proud. Hoping wonderful memories of Ben will help ease your pain. May the Lord comfort you, and watch over the many other young lives that are still fighting for our safety.

shawnee (Austin, TX)

May 31, 2007

Do not stand at my grave and weep,
I am not there... I do not sleep.
I am the thousand winds that blow...
I am the diamond glints on snow...
I am the sunlight on ripened grain...
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you waken in the morning's hush,
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of gentle birds in circling flight...
I am the soft star that shines at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry-
I am not there... I did not die...

BRENDA HANKINS

May 30, 2007

IM SO SORRY ON YOUR LOSS.MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND THE WHOLE FAMILY YOU ARE ALL IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS. I DIDNT KNOW BEN BUT WHAT IVE HEARD HE WAS A GREAT MAN AND FATHER. KYRA JUST REMEMBER THIS THAT YOUR DADDY WILL ALWAYS BE WITH YOU IN YOUR HEART AND I KNOW HE LOVED YOU VERY MUCH.

Marcella West

May 30, 2007

Brenda, my heart breaks for you and your family in the loss of Ben. You have my sympathy in this time of overwhelming sorrow. Please know that I am thinking about you and praying for you, Ben, and all of your family. Ben's service as a Marine will never be forgotten, as well as what a wonderful son he was for you. He was one of the few, the proud. Semper Fi.

Carol Cline

May 30, 2007

Know in your heart that Ben is a true hero and will never be forgotten. All gave some, some gave all. Rest in peace Ben. You will be missed by everyone’s life you have touched.

To Ben's family, as the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life’s routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family, friends, and all Americans for the sacrifice of one of your family members for our freedom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. May you find comfort in the loving embrace of our Heavenly Father.

Jodie Delgado

May 30, 2007

Ben was a brave man. Not alot of people have the courage to fight for our Country. He is a hero and will be deeply missed.

T & R Doubet

May 30, 2007

My deepest sympathy to the whole Desilets family (and the coyle family) you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Kyra,We have a lot of respect for your Daddy for servicing his country. Ben, may you rest in peace.

Lois Keefer

May 30, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. I hope you find comfort in your memories of Ben. He will not be forgotten. You are all in my thoughts and prayers.

Ray Dalton

May 30, 2007

The Woodhull, IL American Legion/Auxilery and members send their condolances to the family.

Bethany

May 30, 2007

I went to High School with Ben and still can't believe this happened to such a wonderful person. Ben was awesome and a very good friend as well. There will never be anyone else like him. To his family, I am sincerely sorry for your loss and just want to let you know, we all hurt with you. I hope that his daughter will know what a beautiful person her father was, and that he gave his life for her and for our country. He was a good man, and may he rest in peace now and forever! We love you Ben!!

Ada Stodgel

May 30, 2007

Deepest Sympathy
To the entire family and to Elmwood, on their loss of Our Soldier.
God be with you today and always

May 30, 2007

THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR COUNTY.
MRS.JOYCE ADKINS

Sgt & Mrs LaRoe

May 30, 2007

Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Soldiers are heros no matter where they are, on earth and in heaven.

May 30, 2007

I want to THANK YOU for his SERVICE to defend FREEDOM .. :o)
MAY GOD BLESS YOU.

Sgt. Mike Enright

May 30, 2007

Family and Friends of Lance Cpl. Desilets,
My deep concolences at the loss of this most honorable Marine. Please know that you are not alone in your grief. The gratitude of our nation is forever with Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets. God bless Benjamin, his family and friends.
Rest well Marine.

Ronn Massie

May 29, 2007

God bless the family and friends of Benjamin.
You will all be in our prayers.
Thank you Benjamin for being such a brave hero.

(In rememebrance of Cpl. Joey Cantrell 4-4-07)

May 28, 2007

To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA

Andy R

May 27, 2007

Desilets Family, I am truly sorry for your loss. I had met Ben on more than one occasion and knew him to be a very honest and kind man. He is sorely missed by many at Lejeune.

Mary English

May 27, 2007

Desilets Family,
I just wanted to send my love to your family for your loss. I know that Ben was a hero not only to me but also to this country. I am praying for you guys and miss you lots.
Mary English

Pamela English

May 27, 2007

Dear Brenda, Laura & Hannah

My heart is heavy when I heard the news of Ben. I remember teaching Ben in the Primary Class at Faith Apostolic Church of Troy (MI). He was a sweet boy, as I am sure just as much a sweet young person. May he rest in the peaceful arms of the Lord Jesus. I am praying for all of you. I miss you. Love Pam English (Member of FACT- Troy, MI)

Sandy Bonesteel

May 27, 2007

As the mother of a son (my only child) who is enlisted in the Army, I want to send my condolences.

Susan Hafey

May 26, 2007

Dear Desilets Family,

My heart is heavy as I extend my deepest sypathy to you. LCpl. Benjamin Desilets' is a hero and I am deeply grateful for his service and selfless sacrifice. Ben was serving with my son. He and their Marine Brothers are grieving with you. Please know that you are in our prayers as you endure this difficult time. May God strengthen and comfort you.

Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)

May 26, 2007

Rest in peace.

June Moody

May 25, 2007

My sympathies are deep for the family of Lance Cpl. Desilets. I will pray for your comfort and strenght during this most difficult time. The service your Marine gave will never be forgotten. And thank you for sharing such a fine piece of God's handiwork with the rest of the world.

SHIRLEY DONEY

May 25, 2007

REST IN PEACE MY FRIEND, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FREINDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU

Cory and Mary Orvik

May 25, 2007

God Bless Legacy.com for allowing us to honor these heros.

We can't imagine what you have been going through since being notified of the death of your young Warrior. The Military and families all over the USA and world are grieving with you and praying for you. What a very brave individual you have in your family that would give up a life for their homeland and its people so they can remain free. Your Freedom Fighter has served the Country above and beyond the call of duty, let no one ever tell you different. With the mission now completed your Warrior has been redeployed to Heaven to sit on the right hand of the Supreme Commander and Chief. The Father above has Benjamin in his arms and will give him peace as well as eventually easing your pain and suffering. God speed to you and Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets, our HERO. We are so proud of them that are willing to sacrifice for this great Nation, THANK YOU.

Army Retired

Emma

May 24, 2007

My brother, Cpl. Matthew Bolar, was killed in Baghdad exactly 3 weeks ago and the pain is still as fresh as ever. May you find comfort during this difficult time. Lance Cpl. Desilets will NEVER be forgotten. He is an American hero.

Don Elseroad

May 24, 2007

In recognition of Lance Corporal Benjamin D. Desilets' Honorable Service in the United States Marine Corps, the Tri-Cities Tennessee, Detachment Number 969 of the Marine Corps League would like to extend our appreciation and gratitude for his service to God, Country and Corps as well as our sincere condolences to his family.

SEMPER FIDELIS

Don Elseroad
Junior Vice Commandant
MCL Detachment #969

The Bumgarners

May 24, 2007

"If there must be trouble, let it be in my day, that my child may have peace." I pray that this is the case for Ben's child and that Ben served and sacrificed for eventual peace for our future and that of his child. Thank you Ben. God bless him, his family and our troops.

Renee Owens

May 24, 2007

Please accept my deepest sympathy for the loss of your Hero, and my sincerest gratitude for his service. May God grant you peace and strength.

The Land of the Free, Because of the Brave

In memory of my nephew, PFC Chase Edwards, USMC
KIA 06Apr2006

Garnet Jenkins

May 24, 2007

Please accept my Deepest and most heartfelt sympathy regarding the devastating loss of Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets.
The price this Brave Young Marine and his family have paid for this country and for freedom, Will Never Be Forgotten.
There is so much thanks to be given, to these young heroes, for their Courage, Dedication and Service.

May Benjamin rest safely in God's Care and may God's Loving Grace Bless the Desilets family.
I am the sister of such a young hero, who made the Ultimate Sacrifice in Vietnam, many years ago.

"Wait on the Lord, be of good courage and He shall strengthen your heart" ~ Psalm 27:14 ~

May the Peace of God and your precious memories of Benjamin, remain in your heart always.
May this give you comfort and strength through the difficult days ahead.
My thoughts and prayers are with you.

gary Allain

May 24, 2007

Lance Cpl. Benjamin D. Desilets
you are my hero
may god keep you in his arms forever.

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