Andrew Castro

Andrew Jordan "A.J." Castro (January 11, 1990 – August 28, 2010) was an American Army Intelligence Specialist who was killed in action in Babur, Afghanistan while serving during Operation Enduring Freedom. Castro was posthumously awarded the Purple Heart and Bronze Star Medal.

Early life and education Members with California's Westlake High School Football Team take a moment of silence to honor Fallen Warriors, including Castro, during a memorial held at the USS Arizona Memorial Aug. 21 Castro was born to Hector Castro and Carmen Roman in 1990. Castro grew up in Westlake Village, California. From an early age, he displayed an interest in the military, visiting Army surplus stores and collecting camouflage gear.

While in high school, Castro was an active member of Westlake High School (California)'s football team playing linebacker. He graduated in 2008.

His brother Ryan has served as a sergeant with the U.S. Army at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas.

United States Army

After graduating, Castro entered the United States Army in June 2008, joining the 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division. He was stationed at Fort Campbell, Kentucky in February 2009.

Castro chose to reenlist to join his platoon in Afghanistan, despite having the option to complete his service in the United States. while running toward fellow soldiers who were trapped and being attacked by the Taliban. He died alongside Sgt. Patrick K. Durham.

Awards and decorations Castro was posthumously awarded the Bronze Star

Castro is included in the Military Intelligence Corps (United States Army) Memorial Wall.

Burial and tributes Castro's casket returned to Dover Air Force Base. He was 20 years old when he died.

In his memory, the Westlake High School football team wore his jersey number 45 and the emblem of the 101st Airborne Division on their helmets.

The California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a statement on Castro's death. Governor Schwarzenegger ordered Capitol flags flown at half-staff.