[otw_is sidebar=otw-sidebar-1]On Monday, March 18, 23-year-old Westport resident Roger Muchnick ’08 was one of seven Marines killed in a training session at Hawthorne Army Depot in Nevada. According to Dan Woog, Muchnick served two tours in Afghanistan as an active member of the U.S. Marine Corps.
Muchnick played football and lacrosse for the Wreckers during his time as a Staples student before moving onto Eastern Connecticut State University prior to his military service.
“He was like a son to me,” Assistant Principal Karyn Morgan said, a former grade head for Muchnick. “My heart’s broken. He loved his family, friends, and country, and he wanted to prove that (by being a soldier).”
David Gusitsch, the 6-12 Physical Education and Health Curriculum Coordinator, whose brother is a veteran, also knew Muchnick on a personal level.
“This tragedy hit close to home,” Gusitsch said. “It’s very unfortunate when anyone who serves for our country has an untimely passing.”
Principal John Dodig made a statement to the school earlier this morning, followed by a moment of silence on Muchnick’s behalf.
Muchnick is survived by his parents and three younger siblings, including his brother, Will, who was also a Staples graduate. A service date for Muchnick has not yet been determined.
