Yesterday, our friend Chuck invited us to be there when Justin’s personal Effects arrived from Afghanistan. We were honored to have been included in the small gathering of family and friends to provide support to our friend who lost his son on July 4th. Before I wrote about this, I wanted to check with Chuck to make sure he was comfortable with me sharing this. As it was part of the story I’ve been telling — and for Chuck, the story of how Justin died for our freedom — he said he was cool with it.
It was another dose of reality that this was real. In particular, seeing the items that were actually on Justin at the time of the attack was really moving. Left us with a lot of questions.
One of the other things not show here was the sealed report from the military with details of the attack. Apparently the report is over 100 pages and contains sworn statements from witnesses and details of the day. Victoria has already seen the report, but this was the first time Chuck had his own copy. The military does not release the personal effects until that report has been completed.
Below are some of the pictures from yesterday. RIP PFC Justin Casillas. Halloween is right around the corner, and some of the best Halloweens we had in Woodland were with Chuck, Victoria, and Justin.
Keepsake Chest
CAO Desiree unveils the keepsake chest provided by the military to store commendations, uniforms, etc. It’s a beautiful piece.
Food locker
One of three plastic footlockers of Justn’s personal effects.
July 4th.
This is a combination of the items that were found on Justin’s body the day of the attack, with the exception of the medallions which were from the memorial service from Afghanistan. Among the contents: a letter from Justin’s girlfriend, pens, a cheat sheet for safety tips for something to do with mortars, hair bands (must be from his girlfriend), a range finder guide, and his smashed iPhone. Amazing the damage that had, and it still turned on. After three months. Chuck is going to figure out the access code, so he can see if there’s any photos.
Solemn
I can’t remember what this was, but the items in that box were very personal. Photos. ATM Card. Wallet.
Wallet
Chuck looks through Justin’s wallet. Two smiling moments came from that: the Apple stickers on the outside with the words “Fuck You” hand written on there, and the “McLovin” Hawaii driver’s license that Victoria and Chuck had given Justin. Classic. I love that he carried that. On the right, another military issue keepsake box with his wallet, his ring from Fort Benning, and more.
Uniforms
It was amazing to see how many uniform were issued to Justin. This footlocker was full of them.
Beret
Victoria holds a beret from Justin’s personal effects. It had a rip in the top, which assured her that he had worn it.
Posted via email from @marlinex = geek girl
