Each year, the Class of 1963 remembers their classmate, the late Private First Class Louis Willett ’63, with a floral arrangement that is placed near his sketch in the Stanner Hall of Fame. PFC Willett was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor “for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.” He was mortally wounded on February 15, 1967 in Kontum Province, Vietnam, while protecting his platoonmates from heavy enemy fire, saving their lives in the process. PFC Willett is the only Stanner to be awarded the Medal of Honor.
Due to the temporary closure of Molloy’s campus, the Class of 1963 was unable to send their floral arrangement as planned. Capt. Larry Seible ’63, representing his class, instead sent his well wishes and expressed that PFC Willett has not been forgotten. However, Mr. Jeff Gallagher ’88, was able to continue the tradition in a different way. Each year, Mr. Gallagher reads PFC Willett’s Medal of Honor citation with his history class prior to Memorial Day. This year, Mr. Gallagher volunteered to briefly visit Molloy and place a smaller arrangement of flowers near PFC Willett’s sketch. Thank you, Mr. Gallagher, for helping to continue this tradition.
We invite you to read PFC Willett’s full Medal of Honor citation by clicking the button below. Together, let us remain ever mindful of PFC Willett’s legacy and sacrifice. We also remember all who have served, Stanners and friends, who selflessly gave their lives in protection of our country.
