Memorial Day Primer: Featuring Philadelphia’s Unforgettable Edison 64, Brotherhood, and Sacrifice

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

11:30 AM-1:00 PM

This campus gathering pays tribute to those who have lost their lives in service as we prepare for the nation’s observance of Memorial Day.  This year’s event, Philadelphia’s Unforgettable Edison 64, honors the legacy of the 64 Edison High School students who lost their lives in Vietnam from 1965 to 1971 - earning Edison the somber distinction of being the public school with the largest number of students lost to the war at the time. Excerpts from Richard Sand’s book Edison 64, will be shared along with remarks from community leaders, Veterans, service members, and content from the documentary film produced by American Veterans Media. 

As a lasting tribute, the Veterans Multi-Service Center, in partnership with Orens Brothers Real Estate and Mosaic Development Group, created the Edison 64 Veterans Community. Opened in 2019 on the former Edison High School site at 700 West Somerset Street, it provides 66 units of affordable, veterans-preference housing, along with essential supportive services and shared community space. On the very grounds where the Edison 64 once walked the halls and answered the call to serve our country, veterans today not only have a place to live, but a community where they can rebuild and thrive. The sacrifice of the Edison 64 is never forgotten; it lives on through a community dedicated to serving those who served.

Drexel University has offered Army ROTC for over 100 years and has been a top ranked Yellow Ribbon School since 2009; military-connected students contribute to campus life in countless ways. During this tribute, we will especially remember, Drexel alumnus and US Army Veteran, Peter A. Altavilla Jr. (’83) who passed in January 2026.  Altavilla served over 21 years and retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He was a founding member of the Drexel Veterans Alumni Network. While at Drexel, Altavilla was an active member of the Alpha Pi Lambda fraternity and served on the alumni board. Acknowledging the impact of selfless citizens who prioritize service at such a young age, we recognize and honor the courage and sacrifice of all who serve, especially the Edison 64 who did not return to their classrooms, communities, and most of all families and friends to continue their life journeys.

RSVP by May 13, 2026, using the link  below:

https://drexel.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3E0NTWR5BkZ37mK

Contact Information

Rebecca Weidensaul
rebecca@drexel.edu