2+ Years After Death of 'Our Warrior' Branford Memorial Popular

BRANFORD, CT - It doesn't seem possible that more than two years has passed since 10-year-old Ben Callahan tragically died while swimming with his brothers in the Branford River.

All of us have heard the expression "time passes quickly," but the fact that it has been two-plus years since Ben died that tragic July day in 2017 while swimming is a stark reminder that time doesn't stand still.

Patch was reminded of the passage of time since the tragic death that struck the entire town of Branford when a simple Sunday ride took a reporter past the beautiful memorial that was created in the wake of the death of Ben - our as he is better known around town - as "Our Warrior."

The momument (seen pictured) full of plantings, pictures and sports memorabilia is kept up beautifully and still receives daily visits from many who stop by and reflect on the lost of the young boy's live and the efforts that his family launched in the aftermath to honor his memory - through charity foundations, donations, and work.

The memorial is located at the corner of Montowese Street and Tabor Drive, a short distance from where Ben died from drowning.

The memorial was cleared, mulched and designed with the help of many in the community including Stacy Bandecchi of Stony Creek Quarry, Branford Land Trust, First Selectman Jamie Cosgrove, Ralph Torre, Van Wilgen’s Garden Center, Holly Warner and Gary Zelinski.

In addition, the Branford Garden Club has maintained the plantings.