I have ordered that flags around the University be flown at half-mast for the next week in honor of one of our own, Christopher Cosgrove, who attended Monmouth as a member of the class of 2005. Our friend, Chris, fell in action on October 1st, serving with the 25th Marines in Iraq … killed in a car bombing incident.

I knew Chris from my first days at Monmouth. He was always eager to talk about service to his country; service as a Marine. There is a term for his enthusiasm to serve as a Marine: “Gung Ho.” He knew the Marines were an elite fighting force, and he was vitally interested in life-long bonding that comes from being a Marine.

That has ended now. Chris is gone. His family will struggle with his loss, and so will we. His family will need our support and thoughts, even our prayers.

God bless our alumnus, Chris Cosgrove. He thought of us when he chose his vocation. We think of him now.

Paul G. Gaffney II
President

Arrangements for Lance Corporal Christopher Cosgrove, Class of 2005:

Tuesday, October 10 (Viewing), 1 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m.
Birchwood Manor
111 North Jefferson Road
Whippany, NJ 07981
973-887-1414
info@birchwoodmanor.com

Wednesday, October 11 (Mass), 11 a.m.
St. Vincent Martyr Church
26 Green Village Road
Madison, NJ 07940
973-377-4211
Directions: www.rosenet.org/svm/

In lieu of flowers, the family has requested donations to “Marines Helping Marines.” This is a foundation that Chris helped to establish. Donations may be sent to:

Mr. Peter Gallow
18 South BelAir Avenue
Cedar Knolls, NJ 07927

If you have any questions, please contact the Office of Student Services at 732-571-3417.