Michael Joseph Mooney was born on September 5, 1936, the son of Margaret and Stewart Mooney of St. Albans, NY. He attended Saint Agnes High School in New York City, graduating in 1955.

While he was in high school, he was also a member of the New York Air National Guard from 1954 to 1956. His membership in the Guard gave him the opportunity to go to West Point, and he seized it by winning an appointment and passing a competitive exam under a program sponsored by the New York State National Guard.

At the Point he was known by all his classmates for his sense of humor, joyful laugh, and friendly smile. These qualities, however, did not help him with the upperclassmen during plebe year. That year was particularly rough for Mike, but his determination and his faith pulled him through. As a good Irish Catholic, Mike attended voluntary morning Mass as often as he could. This allowed him to miss breakfast formation and the march to the mess hall.

In the spring of his plebe year, Mike answered the challenge to eat 100 prunes during one breakfast and earn the right to “fall out” during meals until the First Class graduated. He accomplished the goal, but his company commander reneged on the agreement, and Mike spent the night in the sinks, disappointed. When June Week finally came, Mike was filled with relief as he was “recognized” by the upper classes. But he still had obstacles to overcome.

Academics were a continuing challenge through the four years, but Mike’s drive and tenacity would not let him fail. The fact that he was a Catholic acolyte for three years may also have played a role. Nonetheless, Mike’s graduation was a testimonial to what someone can achieve in order to improve himself.

Mike’s entry in the 1960 Howitzer sums it up well:
Moon’s four years were highlighted by a constant struggle with the A.D. (Academic Departments) and the T.D. (Tactical Department), but he didn’t let them get him down. His “come back” ability will be long remembered, and rooming with Mike insured the fact that even “Gloom Period” wouldn’t be too bad. His good nature and desire to succeed will insure a successful career and he will be long remembered by his many friends.

Mike came to West Point to better himself and this he did. Upon graduation, Mike was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Signal Corps, and after attending branch school he was assigned to the 69th Signal Battalion in France, an assignment that he thoroughly enjoyed. However, after returning to the United States and completing his three-year obligation, he decided to leave the Army and try civilian life. He started in the insurance field and then moved on to other endeavors in the New York City area. Unfortunately, during this same time, Mike was overtaken by illness and his later years were full of suffering and pain.

We know only a few facts about Mike’s life after he resigned his commission. We know that he did not marry. We know that he died in New York City on October 13, 1988. We do not know where he is buried. And we do not know who is his next of kin.

However, we—his classmates, companymates, and roommates—will never forget him for his determination, resiliency, and commitment to succeed regardless of the effort it required. While at the same time being able to smile and maintain a sense of humor. In this regard, ‘Beams’ was and is unique.

And when our work is done,
Our course on earth is run.
May it be said, “Well Done;
Be Thou at Peace.”

— Classmates, companymates, and roommates