Walter c. reitmeier (1963)

True American Hero can be words to describe Walter Reitmeier.

During his four years at Maryvale High School before graduating in 1963, Wally participated in sports and clubs at the school. Wally lettered in football, cross county, wrestling and track, to which he was a co-captain. He also was a member of the student council.

Wally took his education very seriously. He attended the University of Buffalo for one year. He then transferred to the Erie County Technical Institute where he graduated with an Associate’s Degree in Construction Technology. It was there that he was Vice President of his Sophomore Class, as well as, Vice President of the Kappa Tau Fraternity. He then enrolled in Buffalo Sate College graduating in 1969 with his Bachelor’s Degree. While attending Buffalo State College he was the Vice President of his Junior and Senior Class, a member of the Fraternal Board of Directors and a ROTC Cadet. When he graduated he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corp. 

After graduation, Wally went to basic training and was sent to fight the Vietnam War. Wally was a squad leader and led his squad on many missions. Due to his willingness for service, hard work and leadership, he was awarded First Lieutenant while on duty in Vietnam.

On Wally’s last mission he led his squad through Quan Tran Valley to clear a minefield. His squad found an unexploded mortar. Wally ordered is men to a safer area and went back to investigate the mortar. At that time, it exploded due to a delayed detonation, severely injuring him. Wally lost both his legs, his right arm was full of shrapnel, his left eye was injured, he sustained a serious chest wound and had a facial injury. His actions that day saved the lives of many other US soldiers and led to many awards.

He was awarded:

· Bronze Star w/combat “V” (the third highest military award)

· Purple Heart

· Combat Action Ribbon

· Meritorious Unit Citation w/ribbon bar

· National Defense Service Metal 

· Republic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation Gallantry Cross

· Republic of Vietnam Campaign Metal

After the explosion Wally spent nearly a year in military hospitals having countless surgeries. Upon his final discharge Wally married his college sweetheart, the former Diane Brooks. After marring Diane, he went on to attend NY University where he earned his Master’s in Education in 1972. While in New York City, the Reitmeier’s had a son they named Jason. Wally then attended Niagara University to obtain his PHD, unfortunately due to his war injuries he was unable to finish this degree. 

Wally and Diane settle in Clarence, NY with their family. Wally worked as the Director of Niagara County ARC from 1973-1975 and worked for the Erie Community College Facilities Planning from 1975 until he was no longer able to work in 1976. Wally was active at the J. Michael Hens VFW Post of Clarence and the American Legion of Clarence. 

Wally passed away on February 14, 2013 from a result of his exposure to Agent Orange and his war injuries. He is survived by his loving wife Diane, his son Jason, Jason’s wife Kristen and his three granddaughters, Alaina, Lily and Emily.