William Alvin Comly was born on March 6, 1950. His home of record is Collingswood, NJ. He lived in Haddon Township and was a 1968 graduate of Haddon Township High School. “Billy” was a member of the 1968 championship wrestling team and both quarterback and guard on the football team that won first place in the Marine Corps physical fitness meets. In 1966, he won a first place trophy for the Pleasantville 100 mile water-skiing course. William was a member of the 1968 Wildwood Beach Patrol.
In May 1968, after graduation, Comly enlisted in the US Marine Corps. During his basic training at Parris Island, he was named Honor Man of his platoon. He later received training as a paratrooper. He attained the rank of Corporal (CPL).
Comly was sent to Vietnam in August 1969, and was scheduled to return home during the summer of 1970. He served in the 1st Platoon, G Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division.
On March 11, 1970, at the age of 20, Comly was killed in action.
He is buried in Locustwood Cemetery, Cherry Hill, NJ.
Sources: Ruth Comly (mother) and NJVVMF.
12/17/2024
