Patrick Hannon Memorial Rock Installed in Garden
He will always be remembered as that smiling young man with a sparkle in his eyes that made the most of his time at Woodhull Intermediate School. When Patrick Hannon passed away suddenly in July 2011 the Huntington community lost one of its most enthusiastic and hardest working members.
The incoming sixth grade was wrapping up a week spent at the 1,800 Yawgoog Scout Reservation in rural Hopkinton, near the Connecticut state line, at the time of his sudden passing in his sleep. The camp is operated by the Narragansett Council of the Boy Scouts of America. David Preston, a spokesman for the Narragansett Council said, "This is the saddest day in the 96 year history of the camp."
In the aftermath of the tragedy, Mr. Hannon's Boy Scout Troop 78 helped landscape a memorial garden at Woodhull in their fallen comrades' honor. Troop members helped plant a cherry tree and later created new flower beds and retaining walls in the area along with northeast side of the building.
Earlier this month a large rock with a plaque attached to it was placed in the memorial garden area. The plaque's inscription reads: "This Garden Is Dedicated In Loving Memory of Patrick Liam Hannon. October 28, 2000 – July 16, 2011. Donated By Boy Scout Troop 78, Woodhull School Community and The Hannon Family." The Hannon family, including parents Jim and Deirdre and children Shamus and Brigid recently posed for a photo near the memorial rock.
Woodhull and the entire Huntington School District continues to remember Mr. Hannon as an energetic, respectful and enthusiastic youngster, whose quick smile could brighten anyone's day. His performance as a member of the boys' band in the school play, "The Music Man, Jr.," and his participation in other Woodhull and community events is cherished to this day.