Benjamin Neal

Spc. Benjamin H. Neal, age 21, of Orfordville, Wisconsin, died on April 25, 2012, in Kandahar province, Afghanistan, from injuries sustained when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device.

He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 508th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Ben is a 2009 graduate of Parkview High School in Orfordville. He joined the Army in 2009. He was on his second deployment to Afghanistan. 

Friends describe Ben as serious and a good person, who was committed to his country. They also describe him as family oriented and helpful. 

Saint Simon and Saint Jude, pray for Ben

Military officials describe Ben as a true paratrooper and a professional, who will be sorely missed by his comrades. He is also described as charismatic and fun-loving. 

His awards and decorations include the NATO medal, the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medla, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal with Campaign Stars, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the Combat Infantryman's Badge and the Parachutist Badge. 

Ben is survived by many loving friends and relatives, including his wife. 

Let us pray that Benjamin Neal is in heaven. Let us pray that he is at peace and is with God. Amen.