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View a eulogy for William Joseph McCaffrey, USMA '39, who passed away on February 13, 2006.

William Joseph McCaffrey

West Point, 1939

Be Thou At Peace

Posted by Jack Porter, '54 on June 6, 2006:

I first met General Bill McCaffrey soon after WWII when he and my father served as regular Army instructors to the Hawaii National Guard. At that time, the McCaffreys were neighbors of ours at Fort Ruger, I was in high school, and Barry was just starting school. General McCaffrey, once again a LTC, inspired and encouraged me to seek a West Point appointment, and it was a special pleasure when we subsequently had an overlapping year at West Point when he commenced his assignment as Deputy Commandant as I was entering First Class year. He and his lovely and gracious Mary kindly gave my OAO an insight into Army married life, and they were the first couple that we entertained at Fort Benning following our wedding. I subsequently had the occasion to visit with General McCaffrey while he was serving as USARV DCG, and also back at West Point at Alumni dinners preceding several June Weeks. Wherever we met and on whatever occasion, he was always a kind, impressive gentleman whose love of his family and dedication to his profession were most evident. I was proud to consider him a friend and am sad that he is no longer with us. My fond condolences go out to Mary, Barry, and Patricia. Cynny and I share your sorrow and also your pride.

 
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