August 27, 2009

I am deeply saddened to inform you that U.S. Army Second Lieutenant Joseph Fortin, a Roger Williams University alumnus, was killed in action on August 23 in Muhallah, Iraq, where he was stationed as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

A Vermont native, the 22-year-old criminal justice major and ROTC participant graduated from the School of Justice Studies in 2008. In speaking with faculty members and advisors who knew Joseph, it is clear that he was a wonderful young man, passionate about his studies and someone who will be missed tremendously.

As of this afternoon, funeral arrangements had not yet been finalized. As soon as details arrive, we will post them on myRWU for anyone interested in attending.

In the coming weeks on campus, the University will honor Joseph’s memory in a number of ways. All members of the campus community are encouraged to view/attend the following:

• A display in the Dining Commons during the week of August 31 will include a book of condolences in which campus community members can express their sympathies – this book will be given to Joseph’s family subsequently.
• During the week of August 31, the American flag outside of the Administration Building will fly at half-staff.
• A moment of silence and flag-lowering ceremony will be held before kickoff at the soccer game on Saturday, October 24, during Homecoming & Family Weekend.
• A memorial service with a 21-gun salute will be held at 11 a.m. on Veteran’s Day (November 11) in front of the Administration Building.

I would like to remind everyone that the Counseling Center (x3124) and the Office for Spiritual Life (x3433) are available as resources for any member of the campus community. Students may also contact the CORE staff member on duty through Public Safety (x3611) who will coordinate access to a counselor.

We ask everyone to keep Joseph, his family and his friends in your thoughts and prayers.

President Nirschel