Lieutenant Junior Grade

UNITED STATES NAVY

John Joseph Wiley was born on May 8, 1939, in Altoona, Pennsylvania, the second of six children. John attended parochial schools in Altoona, and was graduated from Bishop Guilfoyle Catholic High School, with honors. During his school years, John was active as a member of the boys choir, a Boy Scout and served as an altar boy. He was the recipient of the American Legion Award and the Forensic Gold Medal. he was president of his class during his senior year. John was also a member of the National Honor Society and was responsible for establishing several records while a member of both the football and basketball teams.

In June 1957, John entered the U.S. Naval Academy as a midshipman, and was graduated with distinction as an ensign in 1961. During his years at the Naval Academy, John was an honor student, a member of the brigade staff, and a brigade adjutant. Upon graduation he was awarded the Society of Sponsors of the United States Navy Shiphandling Award.

He volunteered for submarine duty after commissioning and was enrolled at the U.S. Naval Submarine School at New London, Connecticut, for training. Upon graduation, he was selected for advance training, and attended the Naval Nuclear Power Trining Unit, Schenectady, New York. He reported to his first submarine, U.S.S. Thresher, in December 1962.

He is survived by his widow, the former Patricia Ann Parks of Altoona, Pennsylvania, and his parents, Mr. and Mrs. J. Chester Wiley, also of Altoona.