New Jersey Flags Fly At Half-Staff For Fallen U.S. Soldier

TRENTON, N.J. -- Flags will fly at half-staff today, Dec. 4, in honor of U.S. Army Private Christopher J. Castaneda, of Hammonton, who lost his life while serving in Iraq, said Gov. Chris Christie.

Pvt. Christopher J. Castaneda
Photo Credit: *Matt Speiser*

K Reakes

12/04/2015 2:00 p.m.

Castaneda was killed in a non-combat related incident Nov. 20. He enlisted in the Army in January and was deployed to Iraq in August. He was awarded several medals during his time serving, including the Army Achievement Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Overseas Service Ribbon and the Army Service Ribbon, said Christie.

“Private Castaneda was a loving son and grandson, who will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fellow soldiers,” Christie said. “His heroism and commitment to service and country make it appropriate and fitting for the State of New Jersey to remember him, to mark his passing and to honor his memory.”

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