Project Description
Anthony (Tony) Markevitch, Jr, was born in Sheboygan, Wisconsin on October 4, 1948. The firstborn son of Anthony and Sylvia Markevitch, Tony was eventually joined by James, Georgene, and Steven. In 1962, the family relocated to Onalaska, Wisconsin. Tony was a high spirited young man who enjoyed playing football and was a conference-champion wrestler in high school.
After graduation from Onalaska High School in 1967, Tony spent the summer working at the Green Giant Factory in Belvidere, Illinois, before deciding to enlist in the Army. One of the first photos he sent home from basic training showed him sporting a black eye and a huge smile. After basic training showed him sporting a black eye and a huge smile. After basic training at Ft. Campbell in Kentucky, he received further training as an Army Ranger, Long Range Patrol (LRP) at Ft. Gordon, Georgia. Tony enjoyed the military, especially parachute jumps.
Tony was well liked by the other members of the 1st Infantry Division during his almost year-long deployment in Vietnam. He was being phased out of combat and volunteered to undertake the mission that ultimately took his life on April 16, 1969.
He was awarded three Bronze Stars, two with oak leaf clusters and “V” for valor. He was described as a true warrior in a book entitled War Paint written by Bill Goshen, who served with Tony.
Calling All Onalaska Alumni! Send Us Your Updated Contact Info!
The Alumni Association partners with Onalaska High School to keep updated records of alumni. This helps individual classes with connecting for class reunions as well as the All-Class Reunion held every three years. Click on the button to send us your updated contact information.