William Clifford Maus

West Point, 1955

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Dan Troyan on May 31, 2000:

EULOGY TO WILLIAM CLIFFORD MAUS, JR. Class of 1955, US Military Academy General Robert E. Lee said, "Duty, then, is the sublimest word in our language. Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more. You should never wish to do less." Bill Maus not only performed duty conspicuously well but also led the way in discharging life's tasks. Bill was always a guiding light and a motivating force--from his days at the USMA Preparatory School where he was the Cadet Candidate Battalion Commander, during his cadet years at West Point when he was named as being first in leadership, while an Army officer, and later in civilian life as an educator. His trusted and respected leadership incessantly inspired others to accomplish their endeavors with excellence and honor. Life-long hallmarks of Bill Maus were leading and caring for those in his charge. In Vietnam, as the original commander of F Company, 51st Infantry, Special Forces, his guidance and dedication to his unit contributed greatly in making it an elite combat team and be considered as one of the Army's finest and most professional long-range reconnaissance patrols. He was duly recognized in that regard, receiving numerous awards. These included our Nation's second highest decoration, the Distinguished Service Cross for heroism and valor involving extraordinary risk of life in connection with military operations against the enemy; two Bronze Star Medals for distinguished heroism in operations against the enemy; and three Air Medals for meritorious achievement beyond that normally expected while participating in aerial flight. Loss of Bill on 23 April 1998 brings much sorrow, but his memory shall live on. By emulating his example of love of family and country, doing what he taught, and remembering his call to "move forward" and to "press on" he will always be with us. Dan Troyan, USMA '55

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