ODU Community to Honor Alumnus Kyle Middleton at Memorial Ceremony Jan. 27

Old Dominion University will honor alumnus Spc. William K. Middleton '07 during a ceremony on Kaufman Mall at 12:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 27. Killed in combat operations in Afghanistan in November, he was known to his family and friends as Kyle. A native of Richmond, Middleton had served in the Army since 2009.

Middleton earned a bachelor's degree in communication with a minor in marketing at ODU and was an active member of Lambda Chi Alpha fraternity. Described as a "natural athlete" by friends, he also studied in England at London College and played on the school's soccer team there.

Stephen Pullen, assistant professor of communication and theatre arts, taught Middleton in a variety of theatre classes and remembers him as a dedicated student and all-around good guy. "Kyle's talent would light up a room," said Pullen. "Every student has something special and he was immensely gifted in acting, writing and directing. Approaching each assignment with a 'look out world, I'm going to conquer attitude,' Kyle excelled in my classes."

Chris Parsons '07, a former roommate and fraternity brother, remembers Middleton as fun loving and a prankster. "Everyone was better for having known Kyle and he was courageous enough to serve his country," said Parsons.

"It's important to recognize how funny, personable and friendly Kyle was and the impact he left on all of us," said Pullen. "During this service, we will honor him, his bravery and sacrifice."

Middleton, who was assigned to the 101st Airborne Division's 2nd Battalion, 502nd Infantry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, based at Fort Campbell, Ky., was interred at Arlington National Cemetery on Dec. 6.