Robert “Big Bob” Joseph McGuirl, Jr.

Robert “Big Bob” Joseph McGuirl, Jr. grew up in Pelham Manor and
graduated from Pelham Memorial High School in 1968. The third of five
children, he enjoyed a large circle of friends and played several sports.

Mr. McGuirl enlisted in the United States Army after graduation, where he
served two tours in Vietnam. He obtained the rank of Sergeant and was
honorably discharged in June of 1971. The impact of those years in service
fostered a lifelong devotion to veterans’ causes as a volunteer and leader, for
which he received numerous honors.

He was awarded the Bronze Star, Army Commendation with 1 Oak Leaf
Cluster, National Defense Medal, Vietnam Service Medal and the Vietnam
Campaign Medal with 3 Battle Stars. In 2018, he received the Westchester
County Lifetime Achievement Award in celebration of his recognition as
Chief Veteran’s Advocate.

Upon his return from the Army, he attended Westchester Community and
Mercy Colleges under the GI Bill. He cherished his Irish heritage and became
a duel citizen of Ireland in 2004.

He was a past Commander of The American Legion Post #50 and
volunteered his time and energy to better the lives of local veterans,
especially at the Montrose VA Hospital. For many years, he led the annual
Pelham Memorial Day Parade.

On October 5th, 2019, Mr. McGuirl passed away at James J. Peters VA
Medical Center. He was an American hero who spent years of his life fighting
for our country and decades giving back to the Veteran community that have
served our country. His legacy of generosity and public service remains an
inspiration for generations of veterans.