Willis Bradley DeYoung was in the prime of his life when he died of leukemia at the age of 26 at Fort Hood, Texas, some years ago. But although he was taken from us abruptly, memories of him and what he stood for shall remain within our hearts. Those memories center upon a compassionate, enthusiastic and courageous young man who loved people, lived life to the fullest, and faced death with an inner strength that goes beyond easy description.

 

There were four important parts to Willis’ life: his family, his wife Sue, the Army, and service to his country. Willis was born on 24 July 1946 in Washington, DC, to Lieutenant Colonel and Mrs. Guy DeYoung Jr. In his youth, he was a natural leader. At Munich American High School in Germany he was elected to many leadership positions including student body president and captain of the varsity football team. His avocations were winter sports and military history, both of which he pursued avidly throughout his life. Already Willis had demonstrated the strong traits of character that earned him the respect of all who knew him: dependability, sincerity, friendliness, and integrity. In athletics, his will to win, competitiveness, and tenacity showed through.

 

In 1965 Willis entered West Point, and he was, indeed, an exemplary cadet. Willis was held in high esteem by his classmates as being friendly yet serious, determined yet engaging, and competitive yet magnanimous. He was active in the Military Affairs Club, serving as its president, and also was a Protestant sunday school teacher and member of the ski team. As a First Classman he was selected as a cadet captain and battalion commander, and also served as assistant brigade adjutant. Upon graduation he was commissioned an Armor officer, thereby fulfilling his lifelong goal of serving his country as a soldier.

 

While embarking on his new career, Willis married Sue Boylan in January 1970. They had known each other in high school and had seen each other off and on for several years. Their love was the major happiness of Willis’ life. The relationship deepened and strengthened, and Sue became a source of great comfort and support during the difficult times that lay ahead.

 

In early 1970 Willis and Sue left for Baumholder, Germany, where he became a tank platoon leader in the 8th Infantry Division. His professionalism and demanding standards paid off as his unit was one of the best in the annual tank gunnery test. When not with his tanks, Willis and Sue were off seeing Germany, skiing, or visiting the Grand Prix races.

 

Then at the end of 1970, doctors diagnosed that Willis had leukemia. Willis and Sue were sent immediately to Letterman General Hospital in San Francisco. There they had the support of Willis’ family since his father was post commander of the Presidio. At Letterman Willis underwent treatment for about a year. Then the leukemia went into remission, and things were looking up for the young couple. The Army granted Willis’ request to remain on active duty as an Armor officer, and in December 1971 they went to Fort Hood, Texas, where Willis was assigned to the 2d Battalion, 66th Armor, of the 2d Armored Division. First slotted as an assistant S3, he worked very hard in spite of the medical risks entailed, and did so well that he was chosen as commander of Company A in July 1972 over many other captains competing for the command of tank companies at the time. He was a superb commander and won praise from superiors and subordinates alike for his professionalism and exemplary leadership style. More importantly, Willis was happy doing what he had long sought to accomplish in spite of the serious medical roadblocks that had been put in his way.

 

However, the happiness was short-lived. The leukemia flared up again in late November 1972 and Willis was soon hospitalized at Fort Hood, For the next few months Willis fought for his life ever optimistic, never bitter, and without self-pity. His courage in the face of personal adversity was and still remains inspiring to those who witnessed it. He passed away having earned the respect and love of all who knew him, professionally or personally. As a measure of his professional accomplishments, he was awarded the Legion of Merit posthumously.

 

As we sort back through our memories of Willis to answer the meaning of this kind of tragedy, we still remain somewhat mystified. In remembering his fine qualities of character, his inner strength, and his love, we know that he lived life to the fullest, and taught us much about what life is all about. Those lessons are a fitting and meaningful legacy. We shall remember them always.