A ceremony at Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) Lakehurst on May 27 dedicated the NAWCAD Lakehurst Veterans Park to the memory of a former teammate who lost his life to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after a distinguished career in the Marines.  

Corporal Rory P. Hamill, USMC Retired, lost his right leg due to an improvised explosive device blast in Afghanistan in 2011, received the Purple Heart and then was medically retired, before working as a maintenance planner at Lakehurst. However, former colleagues like Frank Attwood said Hamill used his injury as inspiration for a new mission: to help fellow veterans.   

“Through his powerful presence on social media, Rory gave voice to the often-silent struggles many veterans face. He reminded the world that it’s okay to not be okay. And in doing so, he saved lives,” Attwood said. “Rory actively sought out veterans. He knew he could help them, and that purpose helped him.” 

Even with all the people he helped, Hamill lost his battle with PTSD and died by suicide on May 1, 2020.   

Lakehurst Executive Director Sean D. Brennan said the park is dedicated not only to Hamill but also to all the veterans who served and will continue to serve as a way to remember the warfighters they support who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of their country. 

"Rory leaves behind a legacy of courage, advocacy, and selfless service – not just as a Marine, but as a father, a friend, and a fierce voice for those who struggle in silence. He will never be forgotten," Attwood said.