This Memorial Day, we remember all the brave members of our armed forces who gave their lives in the service to and for the protection of others. In a special way, we remember all Stanners who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.
Molloy thanks the members of its Class of 1963, who have continued their tradition in observation of Memorial Day, donating a floral wreath in honor of their classmate, Private First Class Louis Willett ’63. PFC Willett is a posthumous recipient of the military’s highest award, 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 purposefully drawing enemy fire away from his platoonmates, enabling their safe retreat.
PFC Willett’s actions continues to inspire our community, and we appreciate the Class of 1963 bringing his story to the forefront each year. PFC Willett’s story is an important part of not only Molloy history, but American history, and it is important that we continue to remember him and educate present and future generations of students about his sacrifice.
In addition to the wreath, a bunting and memorial display was placed beneath a plaque honoring those Stanners who gave their lives in the line of duty during the Vietnam War. The plaque, donated by the Class of 1973, honors the memories of Herbert H. Dilger ’60, Charles V. Donohue ’60, Cosmo F. Pacetta ’63, John T. Reilly ’63, Peter M. Roche ’63, PFC Willett, Peter R. Martin ’64, Gerard F. Paulsen ’64, James E. Stolz ’64, John F. Downey ’65, Kevin R. Hoag ’65, and Bruce N. Sweeney ’66. Please join us in prayer for these brave Stanners.
Click Here to read PFC Willett’s Medal of Honor citation.