Today, we honor the birthday of Army Capt. Benjamin A. Sklaver, born on October 22, 1976, in North Haven, Connecticut. Though his life was tragically cut short on October 2, 2009, in Kandahar, Afghanistan, his legacy of selflessness, humanitarian work, and dedication to serving others continues to inspire those who knew him.
From a young age, Ben showed an extraordinary capacity for empathy and leadership. He was a graduate of Hamden High School and later pursued higher education at Tufts University, where he earned a master’s degree from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. Ben’s desire to make a difference in the world led him to work for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, where he focused on international emergency and refugee health issues. It was during this time that his passion for humanitarian work blossomed, and he founded the ClearWater Initiative, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing clean drinking water to communities in crisis, especially in Uganda and other regions facing dire needs.
Ben’s service to his country was equally remarkable. As a dedicated member of the U.S. Army Reserve, he served two deployments—first in Uganda as part of the military’s Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa, and later in Afghanistan with the 422nd Civil Affairs Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division. His role was to build relationships with local communities, providing them with essential resources like clean water, schools, and hospitals, all in the hope of improving their lives and fostering peace.
Ben was not just a soldier but a beacon of hope for countless people around the world. His efforts to bridge gaps between cultures, alleviate suffering, and bring peace were at the core of who he was. Tragically, while on patrol in Afghanistan, Ben was killed by a suicide bomber—a heartbreaking loss for his family, fiancée Beth Segaloff, her son Danny, and the countless others whose lives he touched.
On this day, we celebrate Ben’s birthday and remember the extraordinary life he led. His impact endures through the ClearWater Initiative, which continues to bring clean water to thousands in need. His spirit of compassion and service lives on, not only in the hearts of those who loved him but also in the countless people he helped around the world.
Today, we reflect on the life of Army Capt. Benjamin A. Sklaver, a man who used his talents to make the world a better place. His legacy is a testament to the power of kindness, bravery, and the enduring impact of a life lived in service to others. Happy Birthday, Ben—you are deeply missed but forever remembered.
