U.S. Army · United States 
Willie L Stephenson
1966
Willie Stephenson served the U.S. Army for 3 years. Willie served in the Vietnam War and the Cold War.
How He Died
Manner
Accident
Cause
Multiple traumatic injuries
What Happened
Patrolman Willie Stephenson drowned during a rescue attempt at Orchard Beach while off duty. He observed a female drowning and dove into the water from his boat. Patrolman Stephenson was able to save the drowning woman by handing her to another off-duty officer, but he went underwater and did not resurface. His body was located several hours later. Patrolman Stephenson was a United States Army Vietnam War veteran and had served with the New York City Housing Authority Police Department for one year. He was survived by his expectant wife and son. His daughter was born 23 days after his death.
Survivors
He was survived by his expectant wife and son.
Service Record
U.S. Army
1959 – 1962
Conflicts
Vietnam War
Cold War
Also Served
New York City Housing Authority Police Department
Patrolman
In Our Keeping
Permanent identifier
neuraspine_01krbxtncav9754y0ja91h3c7b
Record added
August 2, 2026
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Last updated
August 2, 2026
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