Dear Editor:
I would like to say a few words in memory of my fellow American and veteran, William Perry.
Recently Bill passed away leaving behind his wife Mary, three daughters, a sister and brother, along with five grandchildren. I’m very sure that this wonderful family of Bill’s loved him and will miss him very much. Bill also had many friends that he had touched during his colorful life, and it is that aspect that I would like to comment on.
Bill left home to serve in the Army during a tumultuous period in our nation’s history during WWII in places like Africa, Italy and Sicily. It was then and there that he was struck down and wounded by a bullet to the head. Also during that time Bill earned five combat ribbons, five bronze stars and a Purple Heart.
The reason I’m bringing all this up is to put a little background behind this humble man that I happen to admire very much. Mr. Perry was a fine upstanding citizen and participated and attended many council meetings and was a member of The American Legion Post 107 in Hoboken. It was there that Bill and I first met. He took part in all of the Legion’s veterans’ affairs. Back in 2001, I along with my other fellow committee members, was trying to organize a committee for the erection and dedication of The Hoboken Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Bill really stepped up to the plate during this noble endeavor. He was instrumental not only in helping us accomplish these goals, but sensitive to the events surrounding the brave sacrifices that each of these nine men endured. This committee will never forget not only what Bill did to have that Monument built and placed at its resting place on Pier A, but also the sacrifices that he made in the name of “Freedom.”
Like the brave young souls listed on our monument, you could be sure that William Perry will “Never be Forgotten.”
Robert A. Hancox
Vice Chairman
Hoboken Vietnam Veterans Memorial