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<em>Georce William Casey</em>—soldier, family man, friend—has made the eternal sacrifice of the profession of arms. Today we gather to mourn his passing and honor his memory, a memory of a life exemplified by sacrifice, compassion and service.</p>
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George William Casey—noble warrior-epitomized in himself the greatness of our Nation, the devotion of our Army and the dedication of our Officer Corps. A quarter-century ago, his comrades in the Long Gray Line at West Point predicted his future with these simple words: “He will be the Army’s best."—And he was. All who knew him were convinced that he was well on his way to reaching the very top of his profession.</p>
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From platoon leader to combat division commander, from battalion staff officer to student of international affairs, he aspired to greatness and attained it. Satisfied only with perfection. General George Casey applied his untiring determination, his dauntless courage and his very special enthusiasm to every challenge. As a company commander he knew well the Infantryman's hell that was Heartbreak Ridge; as a brigade commander he mastered the techniques of battle in Vietnam; and as a division commander he brilliantly spearheaded the recent operation into Cambodia.</p>
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George William Casey—friend and confidant—was no less magnificent in stature. It was Captain George Casey who, nearly twenty years ago, served so superbly as my aide in the 11th Airborne Division at Fort Campbell. To me—and to the division—he symbolized the infantry and airborne spirit. He continued to be my aide in the 7th Infantry Division during the Korean War until, at his own request, he assumed command of an infantry company. He embodied the many positive attributes which marked him for success—unwavering determination, enthusiasm and intelligence, I recall so vividly George’s desire to be intimately involved in the Korean action, to participate in decision-making, to avoid being left behind. I know that neither Captain George Casey nor General George Casey were ever left behind. His zest, his reasoned judgments and his total devotion to the principles which he held so firmly never faltered—even amidst the crises of battle.</p>
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But the demands of combat leadership never overshadowed the compassion for people which permeated George’s entire being. His awareness of the needs of the individual soldier, his concern for his men’s welfare and his understanding of the rigors experienced by men in combat were never subordinated to lesser causes. Perhaps it is fitting, if this illustrious commander had to die on the field of battle, that his final mission was to visit the wounded and hospitalized soldiers of his division. Such was the man, General George Casey.</p>
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The well-known ABC television reporter, Frank Reynolds, went to Vietnam in May to cover the Cambodian operation. While there, he became acquainted with and was deeply impressed by General Casey. In a recent nation-wide telecast reporting General Casey's death, he said:</p>
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"General George Casey was one of those men who had soldier written all over him.</p>
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“There was no trace of the martinet in him; he was a man for whom the responsibilities of high command were more important than its privileges.</p>
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"He accepted all of the first, and abused none of the second.</p>
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“General Casey knew war and hated it, perhaps more than the rest of us.</p>
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“He was a splendid example of a military man.”</p>
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As a family man, George William Casey knew the ultimate depth of compassion, the totality of familial love, and the harmony of married life experienced by so few. His memory, a rich legacy for those who remain, will guide his loving wife and devoted family into a peaceful future. General George Casey would, above all, desire this.</p>
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Remembered not alone by his family and friends, George Casey is today honored by his loyal soldiers, the United States Army and a grateful Nation. Faithful warrior, humble servant, dynamic leader, devoted husband and father—these words but superficially reveal the real character of General George Casey. Known but to few is the memory which transcends the words, the memory of George William Casey.</p>
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Eulogy By</p>
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<em>General L. L. Lemnitzer, U. S. Army (Ret.)</em></p>
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