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Outpouring of support for Foley family from Marquette University
Outpouring of support for Foley family from Marquette University
MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- The death of Marquette University alumnus James Foley at the hands of Islamic extremists is making international headlines. But the story hits close to home -- on the Marquette campus.
The photo of Foley kneeling next to his executioner is sending shock waves around the world. The rest of what happened was caught on video -- but it's far too graphic to show.
James Foley prior to his execution at the hands of ISIS
Foley's parents spoke about their son near their home in New Hampshire on Wednesday, August 20th.
"They knew Jim was innocent. They're very ruthless. They knew Jimmy was a symbol of the goodness in America," said John Foley, James' father.
"He was driven by the people's deep desire for freedom and the suffering; the suffering of the children," said Diane Foley, James' mother.
The horrific international incident is putting a cloud on Marquette's move-in day excitement.
"James really embodied to be part of the Marquette family. He epitomized social justice and really speaking for those who didn't have a voice. He did his best to serve others and really improve their lives," said Michael Lovell, Marquette University President.
Lovell says Foley, a journalist reporting in the Middle East, represented what Marquette strives for. The school's motto is "Be the difference."
"Students can also learn from James and seeing how proud we are of James and what he did and what he stood for and realize as they go along with their academic career. And when they leave our walls that they can make a similar difference in the world," said Lovell.
Foley was captured once before and held in Libya. He was released in 2011. Before he went back to report in Syria, Foley came back to Marquette to speak about his experience.
"I was in the audience when he was here in 2011. Didn`t meet him personally. I met his parents in 2013 and its an amazing family and our prayers are definitely with them," said Andy Brodzeller, Marquette spokesperson.
Marquette University is planning a vigil to remember James Foley. It is scheduled for Tuesday, August 26th at 6:00 p.m. It will be held at the Chapel of the Holy Family on the Marquette Campus. CLICK HERE for more information.
CLICK HERE to read "Phone call home." It's a letter from James Foley to Marquette University that was published in Marquette magazine this summer.
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RAW VIDEO: Foley family issues statement after killing of James
RAW VIDEO: Foley family issues statement after killing of James
Below is another letter James Foley wrote to Tim Cigelske from Marquette University.