Early Life & Family

Lawrence Robert “Larry” Philippon was born March 20, 1983, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and raised in West Hartford, Connecticut, by his parents Raymond A. and Leesa M. Philippon. From a young age, Larry was known for his infectious energy, boundless humor, and deep love of life — traits that would follow him into every corner of his personal and military life.

At Conard High School, Larry became a celebrated student-athlete. He excelled as the starting goaltender on the ice hockey team, earning recognition and admiration from teammates and coaches, and also played lacrosse. His coaches and classmates remembered him as a leader both on and off the field — competitive, supportive, and always ready with a laugh.

After high school, Larry attended Central Connecticut State University, but his path took a different turn after the events of September 11, 2001. Motivated by a strong sense of duty and the desire to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in May 2002.

Marine Corps Service

Upon joining the Marine Corps, Larry embraced the challenges of training with determination. Early in his career, he was selected for the Marine Corps Color Guard in Washington, D.C., a prestigious assignment involving ceremonial duties at national events, including funerals at Arlington National Cemetery and the presidential funeral for President Ronald Reagan. He performed these duties with pride, carrying the Marine Corps flag with dignity and precision.

Despite these distinguished ceremonial responsibilities, Larry’s heart was set on serving in combat. With characteristic resolve, he repeatedly requested reassignment to front-line infantry duty — and was eventually reassigned to 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina.

Deployment & Ultimate Sacrifice

In 2005, Lance Cpl. Philippon deployed to Iraq as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. His unit conducted combat operations in the vicinity of Al Qa’im, Iraq, a region of intense conflict where Marines worked to secure stability and protect Iraqi civilians and American forces.

On **May 8, 2005 — which was also Mother’s Day and his parents’ 24th wedding anniversary — Larry lost his life while serving at 22 years old, killed by enemy small-arms fire during a combat operation. His passing was a profound loss for his family, the West Hartford community, and all who served with him.

Legacy & Honors

Larry’s service and sacrifice have been honored in numerous ways, ensuring his legacy remains a permanent part of Connecticut’s history:

• Memorial Highway — A dedicated stretch of highway in West Hartford, CT, bears his name, serving as a daily reminder of his courage and service.
• Veterans Memorial Skating Rink — A memorial plaque and tribute under the flag at the rink in West Hartford honors his life, service, and connection to the community he grew up in.
• West Hartford Memorial Day Ceremonies — His name, story, and sacrifice are highlighted annually during ceremonies honoring local Gold Star families and fallen heroes.
• Conard Booster & Scholarship Support — Local athletic and veteran organizations continue fundraising and scholarships in his memory, including the Lance Corporal Lawrence R. Philippon Memorial Fund supporting local youth and service causes.

Larry’s name also appears prominently on traveling memorials such as the Global War on Terror Wall of Remembrance, which visited West Hartford to educate and honor the names of those lost in service.

Service & Decorations

• United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal
• 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division — Camp Lejeune, NC
• Deployed to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom
• Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal
• Global War on Terrorism Service Medal
• National Defense Service Medal

Dates

Birth: March 20, 1983 — Fort Bragg, North Carolina
Angelversary: May 8, 2005 — Al Qa’im, Iraq

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Lawrence R. “Larry” Philippon lived with purpose, served with honor, and sacrificed his life in defense of the freedoms we hold dear. His legacy lives on through his family, his community, and the many ways West Hartford continues to remember and honor his service.

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