Gold Brigade spotlight: Edward Castillo of California

Gold Brigade spotlight: Edward Castillo of California

Three-time American Legion Gold Brigade Award recipient Edward Castillo of Post 68 in Hayward, Calif., recruited 51 new members into the Legion in 2014. The U.S. Army Vietnam veteran sets up membership booths at local street fairs, festivals, job fairs and stand down events. He also has a membership booth one or two weekends a month at a local grocery store.

"The easiest part of the job is explaining the Legion programs to possible recruits and letting them know the numerous advantages of becoming a member," Castillo said. "The term ‘veterans helping veterans’ and seeing the look in their eyes at the thought of becoming a Legionnaire and actually having someone available to guide them through the various programs open to them is the most rewarding feeling. It makes the time, on my feet, in the hot sun, cold wind or rain worth every minute.

"It is an honor to be recognized for doing something that I truly love doing."