Whittier Tech's Tribute to PFC Evan W. O’Neill

Today, our Grade 9 students were taught something in English class that no other students in the area are taught. PFC Evan O’Neill is a Whittier Tech Graduate of the Class of 2002. 19 years ago, today, he made the ultimate sacrifice. A Whittier Tech English teacher, who had PFC O’Neill for both his sophomore and junior years, coordinated a special tribute. All Grade 9 students were brought outside today to a place on campus that was a collaborative project between various vocational areas at Whittier to serve as a place to reflect on PFC O’Neill’s memory. During this time, this teacher shared some insight into how the project came about and the story of PFC O’Neill.

We wanted to continue sharing PFC O’Neill’s story by sharing the write-up that was written by that English teacher…This teacher also shared it this morning on the Morning Announcements.

Tribute to PFC Evan W. O’Neill

September 29, 2022

Today is a solemn day for our Whittier Tech family.

On this day, 19 years ago, 19-year-old, PFC Evan W. O’Neill, a member of the class of 2002, made the ultimate sacrifice during a firefight with Taliban forces in Afghanistan, near the border of Pakistan.

Evan studied Automotive Technology.  He was a member of the  United Nations Debating Team, the National Technical Honor Society, and the varsity football team.  Just weeks after graduating from Whittier, he left for boot camp, following in the footsteps of his father (Vietnam) and grandfather (WWII).

Graduating from Infantry Basic Training at Fort Benning, Georgia, Evan continued his military training by attending Army Jump School where he earned his "Silver Wings." 

The recipient of several military awards, Evan was most proud of the Expert with the M16 Riffle Qualifier and Expert Infantryman Badge, as only 10 percent of all applicants accomplish this.   

Evan’s actions on September 29, 2003, saved the lives of all the other men in his unit.   As a member of the 1st Battalion 87th Infantry Regiment, out of Fort Drum, NY, their motto, "To the Top, All the Way," was also Evan’s motto. 

Evan, we thank you for your service and will always remember your bravery.