Obituary of William A. Mullen

William A. Bill Mullen, a native Philadelphian for over 80 years, recently resided in Marlton, NJ. He is survived by Esther, his wife of over 60 years, their four children, 11 grand children and 15 great grand children. Bill taught physical education at West Catholic High School for 19 years and at St Joseph's Preparatory School for another 26 years before retiring in 1985. "Moon" Mullen as he was known to students, faculty and friends established himself as a professional Field Musician teaching bands at West Catholic, St Joe's and many area high schools as well as 42 years as Director of Field Music at Valley Forge Military Academy. For more than 20 years he provided quality pre-game and half time shows for the NFL Philadelphia Eagles and the USFL Stars. The recipient of many field music awards and international recognition, Moon left a legacy of pageants, competitions and shows improving the status and professionalism of marching bands and field shows. Bill frequently extended his hand to help others both financially and professionally and until recently was involved in supporting programs for young men and women. Born April 27, 1920, William A. Mullen was a native son of Philadelphia for over 80 years. He resided in Elmer, NJ for several years and recently moved to Marlton, NJ with Esther, his wife of 67 years. Known as Bill and knick named "Moon" during his service with the US Navy during the 2nd World War is survived by his wife and four children; William Jr., John, Lois, and Daniel. Together they built a family for 11 grand children and 15 great grand children. Bill taught Physical Education at West Catholic High School during the 1950's and '60' and then for 26 more years at St Joseph's Preparatory School. For more than 45 years, Bill helped form thousands of young men into productive and responsible men. In retirement his concern for helping young men brought him to volunteer long hours in soliciting support for high school programs. His legacy is not only one of mentoring young men but also establishing professional standards for Field Music. His influence on the marching field impacted nearly every high school in the Philadelphia area as well as most of the Mid-Atlantic region including: West Catholic HS, St Joe's HS, Bishop Kendrick, Cardinal O'Hara, Monsignor Bonner and others. For over 42 years he was the Field Music Director for Valley Forge Military Academy, arranged marching routines for the Quaker City String band and pre-game and half time shows for the NFL Philadelphia Eagles and the USFL Philadelphia Stars. He organized the process for evaluating bands and bugle corps and brought standardization to the rules for competition that have improved the quality of field music for nearly a half century. The existence of the Mid-Atlantic Judges Association, a professional group of music and marching adjudicators is directly due to his efforts. The long list of credits to Bill Mullen include organizing programs for the New York World's Fair, American Legion State and National Championships, major band festivals throughout the region; Atlantic City, Garden State Park, Liberty Bell Park, and Allentown pageants . In 1976, he organized the largest parade of musical units and patriotic performances ever held in Philadelphia for the 200th celebration of our Independence on July 4th. Bands from all fifty States and eleven foreign countries participated in the celebration under his invitation and flawless scheduling. Patriotism was one of Bill's overarching drivers. He loved his country and would do anything for this nation. He served in US Navy during World War II as a seaman and Phys Ed instructor teaching other sailors survivability skills. To further understanding of our heritage he formed the Olde City Fife and Drum Corps. Dressed in authentic period costume and using instruments of the colonial day the Fife Corps, visible at many ceremonies in the Philadelphia area, brings a touch of antiquity while fostering pride in the history of the United States. Bill Mullen won a number of awards in his lifetime including: National Champion Baritone Horn Soloist 1947, 1954, 1956 and 1957. The Order of Anthony Wayne Medal, Valley Forge Military Academy, 1982. The Ignatian Medal and Proclamation, St Joseph's Preparatory School, 1982. International Hall of Fame, Drum Corps International, 1985. Alumni Sword and Scabbard for lifetime achievement in Field Music, Valley Forge Military Academy, 1996. Cavalcade of Music Award, Boyertown PA, achievements in Field Music, 1999. Bill Mullen felt deeply about the education and help that the Christian Brothers of LaSalle FSC gave him throughout the years and wished to return some of that generosity. His desire is that rather than flowers or Mass cards and other forms of sympathy that you send donations to assist the Christian Brothers in their retirement. If you are inclined please send your gifts in his name to: Brother Kevin Stanton, Dir. of Development Christian Brothers' Development Office P.O. Box 1710 Beltsville, MD 20704-1710 Make checks payable to: The Christian Brothers' Development Fund