John Michael McHugh

West Point, 1986

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Jim McHugh on June 14, 2010:

On behalf of the entire McHugh family, thank you all for taking the time to join us today to honor my brother John. He is probably looking down on us as we speak and uttering his one word summary of all things he approved of -- "cool". December 3, 1963 -- May 18, 2010 This simple date sequence reveals some interesting information about my brother John. We know when he entered this world, we know when he left this world and we know he spent 46+ years in this world. However, the most important item in that date sequence is the "dash" in between those dates. December 3, 1963 -- May 18, 2010 That little dash in between the 2 dates represents the entire history of John�s life. He was a dedicated husband to Connie for 23 years. Starting with a simple conversation with Connie at the County Line Pub, a beautiful family resulted down the road. He was a wonderful father to Michael, Kelly, Kristen, Maggie and David. He instilled the love of the Army and service to our country in his son Michael. He gave Kelly the love of the game of soccer where she is playing in college. He shared his faith in Christ and especially Christian music with Kristen. John shared a love of fishing with Maggie and wrestling on the floor with David. He was a welcoming father in law to Angela and, most recently, a loving grandfather to Abigail. John was equally dedicated to 3 separate, distinct and equally important parts of his life -- his faith, his family and his country. He did all things in life with the guidance from Jesus Christ. He looked to his bible readings to help him get through every day. He ran his family not with an iron fist, but with love. He was a soldier dedicated to duty, honor, and country. I think it is fair to say that John�s dash was a full one. Growing up, John was always a great athlete. He evolved from his outs not counting when he played in the neighborhood to being one of the better baseball players as he grew up. His ability was enhanced by his leadership qualities. We all know he was an all county baseball catcher and strong contributor to the greater Newark tournament championship team in 1982. But the play that brings it all together for me occurred in his freshman year in high school. John was playing at perennial baseball powerhouse Seton Hall Prep in 9th grade. Sorry to bring this one up, Msgr. Kelly. There was a play at the plate and the runner going home collided with John, trying to dislodge the ball. The runner�s helmet hit John just below the eye, opening quite a gash on his left cheek. However, John held onto the ball and the runner was called out. John, while bleeding from the cut on his face, gently handed the ball back to the umpire and walked off the field, not saying a word. That simple play defined the type of leader he was -- quiet, by example. I had the privilege of not only watching John grow as an athlete and a person, but I also coached his early basketball teams. He may not have been the greatest basketball talent the world has ever seen as there was not much of a market for a 5 foot 9 inch power forward. What John lacked in ability, he more than made up for with hard work. If anyone can remember the numerous back door passes from Kevin Morris to John, they were an automatic 2 points and a beautiful play to behold. I don�t know of any other teammates who could execute the play with more precision. John also introduced the neighborhood to the game of soccer. We were all kind of skeptical at the time for several reasons. First, the ball looked kind of funny with its black and white octagonal patches. Second, we couldn�t use our hands. Third, you could play a full 90 minute game, have it end in a tie and that would be alright. We didn�t get it, bit he did. I will never forget his senior year of high school in the state tournament finals against Wall Township where many of his saves kept the game close. I am sure he is getting a good seat ready to watch the world cup competition starting next week. I am proud of everything John accomplished on the athletic field, in the academic field and on the battlefield. Many may not know that he somehow found the time in his busy military and home life to obtain his masters degree. I am particularly thankful for his time at the War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania in 2008. The proximity of his short time there gave my boys the opportunity to develop a much stronger relationship with their Uncle John. I am proud to call him my brother. John�s dash was full beyond his 46 years. However, our dash is still being written. I suggest we use John�s dash as an example for us to make ours as full as they can be. Namely, put God as your guiding light in all you do. Secondly, love your families like you never loved them before. Finally, respect, honor and pray for those who serve our country in preserving our freedom. We will always love you John and may you rest in the peace of Christ.

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