Iona Prep alumnus Captain Brian O'Donnell '84 was named the Commanding Officer of the USS Leyte Gulf (CG-55). USS Leyte Gulf (CG-55) is a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser in the United States Navy. Iona Prep alumnus Captain Brian O'Donnell '84 was named the Commanding Officer of the USS Leyte Gulf (CG-55). USS Leyte Gulf (CG-55) is a Ticonderoga-class guided missile cruiser in the United States Navy. The ship was named in memory of the World War II Battle of Leyte Gulf in the Pacific. Its homeport is in Norfolk, Virginia. Captain O'Donnell's prior assignment was as the deputy commandant of Midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy. While at the Prep, Brian was a standout track athlete. He is still the school record holder in the steeplechase and cross-country event at Van Cortlandt Park. Captain O'Donnell was born in Yonkers. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1988 with a bachelor’s of science in history. He is also graduate of the United States Naval War College, having received a masters of Arts degree in national security and international affairs, and a graduate of the Joint Forces Staff College. Read more here.
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Bob McCaffrey was born and raised in New Rochelle. He has worked for a major beverage company with responsibilities in sales, distribution and plant operations. He is an active member of the Mount Joy Neighborhood Association.
Not to change the subject, but Florida State could play blindfolded and still beat Notre Dame.
Thank God there are at least 1000 servicemen and women like Captain Brian O'Donnell, Commanding Officer of the USS Leyte Gulf, for every fake whose name I won't mention. I applaud Commander O'Donnell and every other American who puts their life in harms way every day to protect my life. Without such dedicated people we would not have the venues like TOTS to further free speech and exchange of opinions.
Great story, lots of pride and love for our military.This is the type of person our young should aspire to be like. We also have Ray Rice being named Pro Bowl starter.Good way to close 2011,Lets hope it signals a great 2012 for all of us.God Bless
Fantastic, heart warming, encouraging, uplifting story. What a bright future this young man has -- his bacvground is superb and he is clearly being fast tracked toward the Admirality given his academy and post academy training.
Well done Bob and colleagues for bringing this to the attention of what should be a grateful citizenry.
God Bless the Captain.