Victor Di Cavallucci

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Philadelphia, PA

Branch of Service: U.S. Army

Rank: 2nd Lieutenant

Victor Di Cavallucci was drafted into the US Army in 1966. During basic training, the Army became aware of his leadership qualities and asked him to become an officer. After graduating from OCS, he volunteered for Vietnam. He attained the rank of Second Lieutenant (2LT), and he was appointed C.O. of a small twelve-man postal unit.

He cared about his men on a personal level. He treated everyone with respect. While in Vietnam, he treated the Vietnamese children as his own. He set up a school for them and taught them English on his own time. This act of kindness didn’t surprise those who knew him. Victor was well liked by all who met him. He had an undeniable magnetism. His laughter was infectious.

Di Cavallucci was stationed in Phu Bai during the Tet Offensive. On the morning of February 29, 1968, one of Lt. Di Cavallucci’s men, Pvt. Norm Wesson, had orders to travel to Hue. Di Cavallucci told Wesson that he would travel to Hue instead. While en route, Di Cavallucci and two other men were ambushed. All three were killed. “It was because of him that I made it home safely,” remembers Wesson.

Age: 21

Date of Death: February 29, 1968