THE WALL OF FACES

The "Friends of Rocky Versace" remember one of Rocky's fellow alumni from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point - and a brother Paratrooper - COL Edward Joseph Cavanaugh, USMA class of 1946, on what would've been his 95th birthday - 27 November 2018. COL Cavanaugh was a USMA classmate of the 1st USMA graduate to die in Vietnam - CPT Harry G. Cramer (21 Oct 1957).

The "Friends of Rocky Versace" remember one of Rocky's fellow alumni from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, COL Edward Joseph Cavanaugh, on what would've been his 94th birthday - 27 November 2017.

Dear Colonel Edward Cavanaugh,
Thank you for your service as an Infantry Unit Commander - General Staff, and graduating from West Point. It is so important for us all to acknowledge the sacrifices of those like you who answered our nation's call. Please watch over America, it stills needs your strength, courage and faithfulness. Rest in peace with the angels.

On July 29, 1971, while serving with Advisory Team 4, U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, as Senior Advisor, 1st Task Force, Army of the Republic of Vietnam, Colonel Edward J. Cavanaugh was visiting the 51st Infantry Regiment at Hill 55 in Quang Nam Province, when the enemy began a rocket attack on the location. Without hesitation, Colonel Cavanaugh secured a pair of binoculars and began observing the incoming rockets. At the same time, he continually sought out information concerning casualties, damage assessment and updating on the counter battery fire being placed on the enemy. After the first rounds had landed there was a brief lull and it was at this time that he ordered a Medevac Helicopter and appraised the damage caused. He immediately exposed himself and took up a position to better observe the area from where the attack was being launched. When the attack was resumed Colonel Cavanaugh maintained this position watching the flash and marking the rockets' points of origin. Critically wounded by an incoming rocket, he tenaciously continued to observe and report until, over his own objections, he was medevacked for treatment. Colonel Cavanaugh's conspicuous gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflected great credit upon himself and the military service. [Taken from COL Cavanaugh’s Silver Star citation]

COL Edward J. Cavanaugh was an alumnus of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, NY. He was one of 335 men from West Point who died or are MIA in Southeast Asia from October, 1957 – September, 1972. Well done, be thou at peace.