June 26, 2008

They're Not Just Numbers, Mr. President, These Young People Dying Halfway Around the World All Have a Face, Names & Families

Promising Diplomat, Peace & Justice Advocate Killed in Iran

It is with great sadness that Seton Hall announces the death of Captain Gregory T. Dalessio ’00/M.A. ’04, from wounds suffered in combat in Iraq on 23 June.

Greg Dalessio, 30, was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 6th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division, out of Baumholder, Germany. He was serving his second tour of duty in Iraq and had been there about two months when he was killed. He was the oldest of eight children and grew up in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and he graduated from Bishop Eustace Preparatory School in Pennsauken.

Greg earned a bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in diplomacy and international relations here at Seton Hall. He was an outstanding member of the ROTC program, and left his mark as a sincere, hard-working young man who was always concerned with helping others in need and seeking peace and justice in our world.

“I remember meeting Greg when he was a freshman here and I will forever remember his warm smile and engaging, generous spirit,” said Monsignor Robert Sheeran, University President.

“With his close-knit family, we mourn Greg Dalessio’s passing in the service of his nation. He lived the way the Church teaches us we ought, with a deep commitment to ethics and honor, with a love for family, country and God. We pray that he may find eternal rest among the saints in the presence of the Almighty Father,” said Monsignor Sheeran.

The American flag is to be flown at half mast on the Seton Hall campus in honor of Captain Dalessio.

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