On April 17, 2026, I had the privilege of serving as chaplain at the retirement ceremony of Chief Boatswain’s Mate Julio C. Castro, United States Coast Guard, marking the conclusion of more than twenty-one years of honorable and faithful service to our nation.
Held at the Navy Golf Course in Seal Beach, California, the ceremony brought together family, friends, shipmates, and Coast Guard leadership to recognize a remarkable career dedicated to duty, leadership, and service. Chief Castro’s military journey included assignments spanning both coasts of the United States and service aboard multiple Coast Guard cutters, where he played an important role in carrying out the Coast Guard’s vital missions.
Retirement ceremonies are among the military’s most meaningful traditions. While promotions recognize achievement and awards recognize accomplishment, retirement ceremonies provide an opportunity to reflect on an entire career and the legacy left behind.
Throughout the ceremony, speakers repeatedly highlighted not only Chief Castro’s professional accomplishments but also the qualities that defined him as a leader. He was described as someone who genuinely cared about his people—an empathetic leader who worked to ensure those under his charge had the support and resources necessary to succeed. Those qualities often leave a lasting impact long after uniforms are hung up and assignments come to an end.
One of the most moving portions of the ceremony was the recognition of Chief Castro’s family. His wife, Elisabeth, and children, Camilo, Jimena, and Julio, were honored for the sacrifices they made throughout his career. Military service is never carried by the service member alone. Behind every successful career is a family that endures missed holidays, deployments, long hours, and countless moments of separation. Their support forms an often-unseen foundation upon which military service is built.
The ceremony also featured the Coast Guard’s traditional passing of the flag and the reading of “The Watch,” reminding all in attendance that while one sailor’s watch has ended, others stand ready to continue the mission. It was a powerful reminder of continuity, service, and the enduring values that unite generations of Coast Guardsmen.
During my invocation, I reflected on a simple but profound truth: a legacy is measured not only in records or awards, but in people. The influence of a leader can be seen in the lives they have uplifted, the shipmates they have mentored, and the example they leave for others to follow.
As Chief Castro begins this new chapter, we offer our gratitude for his years of dedicated service and wish him and his family continued health, happiness, and fulfillment in the years ahead.
On behalf of SoulLinks, we thank Chief Boatswain’s Mate Julio C. Castro for his service to our nation and congratulate him on a well-earned retirement.
Fair winds and following seas, Chief.
