Peter Mazzillo, Jr. was born on August 29, 1946. His home of record is Avenel, NJ. Peter attended St. James Grammar School in Newark, NJ, prior to moving to Avenel, NJ. He is a 1965 graduate of Woodbridge Senior High School. Peter was a hard-working, fun-loving boy who drove a Chevrolet and hung out with friends and his lovely girlfriend, Fran.
In the spring of 1965, Mazzillo developed an interest in joining the Marine Corps. On May 20, 1965, along with close friend, Billy Slattery, he enlisted in the US Marine Corps. On July14, they flew to Parris Island, SC, under the “Buddy Program,” for boot camp. In November 1965, they completed infantry training at Camp Lejeune, NC. He decided to specialize in machine gunning and stayed in North Carolina for further training. Mazzillo attained the rank of Lance Corporal (LCPL) and served as a machine gunner with M Company, 3rd Marine Division.
While in Vietnam, Mazzillo was wounded and was escorted to a hospital boat. He recovered and was sent back. He was wounded again in an ambush. This time it was serious and he was immediately transferred to a naval hospital in the Philippines, where he was treated and released. He recovered and was sent back again.
On April 30, 1967, Mazzillo was killed in action in the bloody fight for Hill 881 in Vietnam. Mazzillo died as a result of a gunshot wound he sustained while engaged in action against hostile forces near La Sanh, Republic of Vietnam.
Mazzillo received numerous awards and decorations including the Purple Heart with two clusters, the Vietnam Service Ribbon, the National Defense Ribbon and a Good Conduct Ribbon.
Sources: John F. Kennedy High School and NJVVMF.
12/17/2024
