Daren M Hidalgo

West Point, 2009

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Carlos Andres del Castillo on February 25, 2011:

While I did not not know Daren nearly as well as most other people I was compelled to write my experience meeting Daren Hidalgo. I was up visiting my brother right before graduation in may of 09. We went to the cadet store to buy some memorabilia. I was waiting for my family to get ready and then my brother showed up in front of me and started talking to a cadet behind me. I turned around and there was Daren. I looked at his face and eyes and I saw complete Love, Joy and Kindness. I thought to myself, "Wow! this guy is truly and genuinely happy!" He looked at me and said, 'Its nice to meet you." His eyes had a peace in them that I rarely see, in turn this brought me and everyone around him joy. His smile was more than a smile it was helping me see him as more than just someone I randomly met. I received an email yesterday with news of Darren's death and when I saw his picture. Just looking at his smile brought me a smile. His smile and demeanor alone helped me remember him. I only was with him 3 minutes but I remember him 3 years later because of his joy and smile. My deepest condolences for the family. You as well as Daren are in my prayers. May the Lord bring you peace and let the Holy Spirit comfort you. Love, Carlos Andres

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