Michael Buckley Jr.

I met Col. Buckley when I was 14 years old. Holy Cross High School had just closed and I had just finished my 8th grade year there. Marello opened the Fall of 1970. My first class of the day was Algebra I with Col. Buckley. 5 days a week for 1 year he lined us up in rows, we were in alphabetical order. He would call the boys by their last names only but for us "ladies" as he called us it was, "Miss" then our last names. That math class I learned something evertime I walked through those...

My family wishes to express its deepest condolences to yours during this difficult time. I recognize there are no words I can offer to ease your pain of missing this very special man. I know only that some days are better than others. I worked with John (Pope) many years and he shared with me many tremendously enjoyable stories of the Col. and I can say most assuredly that the Col. was as proud and as in love with his family as you are with him. Without doubt the Gates flew open as he found...

A great American who will be remembered by his friends for many years to come. His finest hour, other than recruiting for the Army football team even in his nineties, was publicly taking on the West Point Superintendent over the quality of the football team when he was 101!!!

My first face-to-face encounter with COL Mike Buckley was when I had my appointment to West Point. I was one of his ROTC cadets at Santa Clara University, and I was called into his office for an interview to receive his endorsement to a trip back to his Alma Mater, West Point. He was the Professor of Military Science and Tactics (or Commanding Officer) and I was a lowly, struggling freshman engineering student who was taught Army Tactics mainly by the sergeants. He apparently recommended...

Devotion to God. Steadfast faith. Love of family. Commitment to excellence. Belief in virtue. Performance of duty. Iron will. Ubi caritas et amor, Deus ibi est. A very good life, very well lived.

Please accept our deepest sympathies. Mary Pope-Handy is a friend that shared many amazing and fascinating stories about her grandfather with us. I'm glad you all have such rich memories and stories to pass on. Bob and Shirley Hausafus