Vashon Islanders Pack Football Stadium To Honor Native Son Killed In Afghanistan

VASHON ISLAND - He was a volunteer firefighter, football star, soldier, and Vashon Island son. Today, more than 1,000 people packed into a Vashon Island Stadium to remember Robert Bennedsen. He was killed by a roadside bomb two weeks ago in Afghanistan.

Evan Mattingly praised his best friend for serving his country.

"I just want to thank him for protecting our country, preserving our community and being out there when none of us were," said Mattingly.

Army First Lieutenant Robert Bennedsen was killed by a roadside bomb on July 18th in Afghanistan. In front of a huge crowd at Vashon High School the Army honored the 25 year olds sacrifice.

His college roommate First Lieutenant Dave Stone had kind words for his fallen friend.

"A true leader who cares for and gave his life to protect his brothers and sisters in arms," said Stone.

Besides serving in the Army, Robert was also an island volunteer firefighter. A picture of Robert will ride on the dash of his old fire truck and another one inside the helmet of Mike Kirk.

"It would be something that can keep him an inspiration to me," said Kirk.

There were many tears but also plenty of smiles as friends and family remembered a few stories. Evan Mattingly reminisced about his time on the water with Robert.

"Robert loved to fish, but was a terrible fisherman. No actually he was a good fisherman, but he was a bad catcher, couldn't catch anything," said Mattingly.

Robert graduated from Vashon High School in 2004. He was a state champion in wrestling and an all-state running back. He earned a full Army ROTC scholarship to Seattle University.

Friend Manu Samanna-Spagnoli says he'll certainly remember Robert's many accomplishments, but will miss his infectious grin the most.

"So, Robert take it easy until we meet again, do what you do best, just keep smiling," said Samanna-Spagnoli.

As a final tribute to Robert the Vashon High School football team will retire his number 32 this season, to honor his accomplishments on this field.

Robert is the first Vashon Island resident to be killed in the war in Afghanistan. The Army presented his family with a purple heart and bronze star for Robert's military service.