More detail on this person: Col. Philip Riley was born in Dedham, MA. to Alice and James Riley. A gifted hockey player for Catholic Memorial, he was recruited by U.S. Military Academy West Point, playing under renowned Coach Jack Riley. Phil returned to West Point to teach in 1977 and volunteered to coach J.V.Hockey. Coach Jack Riley said "Phil was the best I have ever had." Phil graduated West Point in 1966 and was featured in a1967 Newsweek article "West Point Goes to War." Phil volunteered to serve Vietnam. Phil served two tours: a Tank Battalion Commander and later, a Helicopter pilot. As Tank Commander, he protected and saved his men under attack and was awarded a Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Silver Star. Phil also served in New Zealand and Germany. He earned master's degrees in business and education. Phil attended the National War College and served as Staff Officer under Gen. Colin Powell on Joint Chiefs of Staff. Colonel Riley completed his military career as Chief Officer of Kenya United States Liaison Office (KUSLO) at the American Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya. He served on the Country Team of Ambassador Smith Hempstone. Upon retirement in 1993, he turned to his love of Education becoming Superintendent of New York Military Academy followed by Headmaster of Storm King School. Returning to serve those who serve, he worked for American Legion and Wounded Warrior Project. Col. Riley leaves behind his wife of 36 years, Gere Riley; step-daughter Troy McCall; daughter Rebecca Baker, husband Joel; Son P. Andrew Riley, wife Allison; daughter Kathleen Riley, husband John; beloved six grandchildren; brother-in-law, Frank Hurley. Predeceased were his sister, Martha and brother Jim. Phil and Gere had fun in life enjoying dancing, attending the arts and kayaking at their Cape Cod 1908 Fenno Barn home. In celebrating the life of Phil Riley, two visitations will be held at Everly Wheatley Funeral Home in Alexandria: Friday, August 15 from 3 - 7 PM and Saturday August 16 from 10:00 - 11:30. Following the Saturday visitation, a Memorial Service will be held at Everly-Wheatley at 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Burial will follow at 2 p.m. with Military Honors at National Memorial Park in Falls Church. In lieu of flowers, consider a donation to Wounded Warrior Project or an organization that supports research and treatment Of Alzheimer Disease.
Burial information: National Memorial Park, Falls Church, VA
This information was last updated 12/01/2025
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Date posted on this site: 02/07/2026
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