Captain Kenneth C Motsay, USMC
15 Feb 1992 – 13 Feb 2023
“Lead with Distinction, Serve with Honor”
Kenneth Charles Motsay, the youngest of three children, was born in Baltimore and grew up in Arbutus, MD. He attended Saint Ursula Catholic School in Parkville, MD (2006), Calvert Hall College High School in Towson, MD (2010), and the United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, MD (2014). At an early age Ken knew he wanted to make a significant difference and showed an interest in joining the military.
At home, Ken was known as “Guy Smiley” because he always had a huge smile to share. He was a big help around the house and wouldn’t blink an eye at chores. His two older sisters adored Ken, and he would often talk about how they were his role models. To them, Ken was the “big” little brother.
A happy child, Ken found joy in being with family and friends. He loved to read and built up an eclectic collection of books from fiction and nonfiction during his life. No matter what age, Ken always found his way to the library searching for newly published books, especially those that involved adventures. His creativity emerged quickly as he amassed a large collection of Legos used to build elaborate structures, especially forts and castles. He was always filled with a quest for knowledge, a zest for life, and love of others, qualities he acquired from his family, especially his older sisters.
In grade school, Ken was well-liked by classmates and teachers. He excelled in his classes and was a member of the Junior National Honor Society. In addition to participating in the school’s cross country team, Ken was a member of the safety patrol. Outside of school, Ken participated in the local recreation council’s baseball and soccer programs. During his grade school years, Ken embraced the importance of volunteering and made time to assist his elderly neighbors with small tasks whenever needed.
In high school, Ken was a McMullen Scholar, Knott Scholar, member of the German Language Honor Society and National Honor Society, and listed on the school’s Honor Roll every semester. Athletically, he participated in cross country, indoor track, and outdoor track all four years and was team captain during his senior year.
When Ken was a high school junior, he participated in the American Legion Boys State program and the Summer Leadership Seminar at the United States Military Academy at West Point. In his senior year, Ken received nominations and appointments to both the Military Academy at West Point and the Naval Academy in Annapolis. Ultimately, he chose the Naval Academy and joined the Plebe class of Midshipmen in June 2010. For Ken, it was a dream come true.
At the Naval Academy, he was a proud member of the 8th Company where he held multiple leadership positions including Executive Officer. During his four years at the academy, Ken was inducted into the German Language Honor Society and competed with the academy’s marathon team, running in races that included the Marine Corps Marathon, Chicago Marathon and twice in the Boston Marathon. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in History with an emphasis on Middle Eastern and North African studies. Ken was commissioned as a U.S. Marine in May 2014.
Upon successful completion of The Basic School (TBS) in Quantico, Virginia, Ken was selected to be a Logistics Officer and reported to the 3rd Battalion, 12th Marine Regiment at Camp Hansen in Okinawa, Japan, where he was stationed for two years with a two-month tour to South Korea as the Arrival Assembly Operations Element (AAOE) Officer in Charge. A two-year tour is a long time from home, but he kept in touch with family and friends, sharing great stories of his travels to Hong Kong, Taiwan, and the Philippines. He surprised his parents with a week-long trip to Okinawa, complete with guided tours and excursions when he was off-duty.
After Japan, Ken served as Battalion Logistic Officer with the Combat Logistics Battalion, 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. While assigned there, Ken was deployed three times above the Arctic Circle, the last serving as Company Commander, leading Marines and Sailors in support of the Marine Rotational Forces in Europe. His tales of snowshoeing, jumping into icy waters, and trekking through snowy mountains in Scandinavian countries are enough to give you chills.
Upon his return to the states, Ken reported to the NROTC Program at the University of Maine where he was able to continue his passion for leadership and mentorship as a Marine Officer Instructor. He is remembered by staff and students as leading with distinction, serving with honor, and bringing a fun attitude to teaching and training. Ken embraced all things Maine and instituted “Flannel Friday” for the officers, staff, and midshipman at the NROTC Unit. His dedication to his midshipmen and untiring work ethic shaped future leaders of the Navy and Marine Corps. Midshipmen shared with his family the positive influence Ken had on their personal lives and career decisions. While at the University of Maine, Ken earned a Master of Arts Degree in Global Policy.
Because of his knowledge, leadership and mentorship, Ken was well respected by those under his command and loved by the command staff. He was well-known for making time to assist others, providing compassion and counseling with an open-door policy. Ken loved the people he worked with, and people recognized in him the highest levels of integrity, character, and selflessness.
While living in Maine, Ken started woodworking as a hobby and often crafted unique items as gifts for family and special friends. He firmly believed that it is better to give than to receive. He discovered a deep love for Maine’s natural beauty, finding peace and joy while camping in the mountains, hiking at Acadia National Park and Big Moose Mountain, and kayaking on nearby lakes. His loyal dog, Ares, was always by his side, sharing in these cherished moments.
Throughout his life, Ken’s favorite holiday was Christmas. He loved the long-held traditions, church services, and very special time with extended family. In December of 2022, he hosted a Christmas Day potluck brunch for his parents and several close friends; it is a happy memory that we hold close in mind and heart in remembrance of Ken’s kindness and generosity.
Ken’s generosity was far-reaching. He embraced the intrinsic value of giving back to his community by caring for homeless veterans and donating to charitable organizations. He considered it important to provide comfort and relief whenever possible.
Ken’s military awards and decorations include: the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with a Gold Star, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with 2 Gold Stars, Navy Unit Commendation Ribbon, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Medal, Korean Defense Service Medal, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon with Bronze Star, and Navy Arctic Service Ribbon.
Ken is survived by his parents, Charles and Sandra, his sister Stephanie Rivera and her husband, Jacob, along with their two children, Miles and Elena, and his sister, Victoria Yavit and her husband, Seth. Ken was godfather to his nephew, Miles, and to Valentina Maroscia. Ken was blessed with an extended family which includes supportive uncles, aunts, cousins, and godparents. His close friends from school and military life are too numerous to mention, but they are always remembered.
Ken’s life will always be defined by his insatiable curiosity, genuine kindness, commitment to service, and an unwavering love for his family and friends. His absence leaves an immeasurable void in the hearts of those who knew him.
Ken was laid to rest with full military honors on 25 February 2023 in the Circle of Immortals at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens.
In a fitting tribute to Captain Motsay, his family asked the midshipmen at the NROTC unit to select a stone from Moosehead Lake, one of his favorite places in Maine.
 
 
8 Comments
My wife and I were honored to be the first to carry our son’s stone at the Motsay Warrior Trek at the University of Maine in Orono, sponsored by the NROTC Unit and The Summit Project. We were grateful to all those who supported the trek and are honored that our son was remembered by so many people during the dawn to dusk event that recognized the service and sacrifice of nine young men and women through stones and stories.
My wife and I, along with our children and grandchildren, continue to mourn for our son whose life ended much too soon. They say the pain of the loss will never go away. For us, each day is a challenge without hearing his voice, receiving morning text messages with silly thoughts and philosophical questions, or our weekly facetime while he would dance in the kitchen and prepare meals for the week. We miss spending summers with Ken in Maine kayaking, hiking, working around the house or sitting by the fire pit on a quiet evening talking and laughing. We miss family Christmas traditions, vacations together, and the very special way he smiled.
As father and son, Ken and I had a special way of saying goodbye. He would ask, “Do you love me?” and I would always answer with “More than you know.” The last time I saw Ken in person in Maine, I hugged and kissed him as I usually did with a big “I love you.” before heading to the door. Something made me hesitate. I turned around and went back to give him another hug and kiss, and in that special way that we said goodbye as father and son, I said, “More than you know.” I never got to hug him again, but I will always remember and cherish that moment.
We miss you, Ken. You will never be forgotten.
Dad
So very sorry for your loss. Ken certainly was a Special Man that made the world a better place. Thanks for sharing his story. May God Comfort You as you navigate through this painful journey. I always tell myself the pain of losing my son will never outweigh the joy he brought to our lives. Treasure the memories. ❤️❤️
Charles and Sandra,
I had the honor of carrying your son, “Guy Smileys” stone on our White Mountain hike in NH. I founded Open Doors Outdoors in 2018 to help Veterans get outside, a very satisfying task. I however was so moved during my hike at the very thought of losing my own son and the fear of him being forgotten by all but me. I’m so sorry for your loss as a fellow parent but please know your son was remembered in the midst of snow covered mountains on one of the most beautiful days New Hampshire may ever have seen. I kept his stone safe and secure with me as I summited Mount Willard. I shared his story and who I felt he was. As a fellow Marine as well, I probably would have laid down my life for him if necessary but today I was able to raise him up and help those in my group remember a pretty amazing Devil Dog. The Summit Project has created an unbelievable organization that is truly blessing the families of our heroes left behind. I’m so sorry for your loss again but he is not forgotten! Blessings on you and yours.
Davey
Sir,
Thank you for a remembrance that has touched us deeply. Ken loved hiking and camping in the mountains of New England and your journey together brings us comfort. Your words of kindness and compassion are a true blessing as we continue to grieve. We are grateful to you for lifting Ken up and honoring him alongside so many who have served our Nation. May the blessings you give be returned to you in love and hope.
My name is Amy Bushway. Although I’ve lived in Maine my entire life—42 years—I have never visited Moosehead Lake. It feels fitting that now is the time for me to go. As a mom of two boys, ages 15 and 12, reading your son’s story deeply touched me. I cannot fathom your grief. Only in the past two years have I taken up hiking, finding the mountains to be a place of calm and peace. A friend suggested I check out The Summit Project, and I’m so grateful they did. After nearly 12 weeks of rainy Saturdays, June 21st brought the most beautiful, sunny day in the mid-60s for hiking Mt. Pierce. I had the honor of carrying Ken’s stone to the summit.
Reading Ken’s bio, I was struck by how many interests and experiences we share. His story inspired me to reflect on my own life as I hiked. Growing up in Lewiston, Maine, and attending Catholic school, I too loved learning so much that I never left the classroom. I’ve now been a teacher for 21 years. I began as a high school English teacher, then transitioned to a reading specialist and special education teacher. I love to read and also have an eclectic collection of books, both in my classroom and at home. I look forward to returning to my classroom in the fall and sharing with my students your son’s story. Affectionately known at school as “Miss Smiley,” I paused several times during the hike to take in the greenery, look up at the sky, and smile. With the perfect weather, I truly felt the heavens were smiling back. Coincidentally enough, every year, my school holds a “Flannel Friday” to raise awareness and funds for juvenile diabetes. From now on, I will always think of Ken on that special day in January. Christmas is also my favorite holiday; I host our large family every year and cherish our traditions: making sugar cookies for Santa, sending Christmas cards, and attending midnight mass. Holidays are especially hard without those we love most. Please know your family will continually be in my thoughts and prayers, especially during these times.
Giving is always better than receiving, and today I am deeply grateful to you and your son for gifting me such a meaningful experience. This has been one of the most moving and memorable experiences of my life. As we shared our stories at the summit, it was clear that the rock chose the person to carry it. I feel truly honored to have carried Ken’s stone and to share his story. I will continue to honor his legacy with everyone I meet.
With love and gratitude,
Amy Bushway
Dear Amy,
Thank you so much for carrying Ken’s stone during your hike with The Summit Project and for sharing your beautiful reflections with us. Your heartfelt tribute means more to us than we can ever fully express.
Knowing his stone was with someone who approached this experience with such compassion brings us both comfort and pride. It is especially meaningful that you chose to honor him on your first visit to Moosehead Lake, a place of natural beauty and peace that Ken deeply embraced.
Your personal reflection about your experience on the trail and the connection you felt with Ken brought tears to our eyes and comfort to our hearts. The many ways your life overlaps with Ken’s in your love of reading, your experiences in education, your roots in Maine, and even your Christmas traditions made us feel a deep and unexpected connection. We felt as if you and Ken walked that mountain together sharing strength, a spirit of service, and the joy of giving.
Knowing his story will be shared in your classroom and remembered during your own “Flannel Friday” brings a smile during a time of grief.
You have gifted us with much-needed peace in knowing that his memory continues to inspire and that his legacy lives on in such a meaningful and heartfelt way. We will always be grateful for your part in this journey. Thank you for carrying Ken’s memory so thoughtfully. We are truly touched.
Keep smiling!
With deepest gratitude and warmth,
Charles and Sandra Motsay
Charles and Sandra,
My name is Matt and I had the honor of learning about Kenneth and spending the day with him on a nice hike. While I was reading about Ken, I couldn’t help but smile while reading we had very similar hobbies and outlook. As a veteran of the Army National Guard, I know I would have appreciated his teaching technique, distinct honor, strive for discipline, while also have fun doing it too!
Oh the hike, Needing some smiles of my own recently, I was entertaining the group with some funny comedy and passing the time with stories while also sharing along the “Guy Smiley” nickname around the group when talking about Kenneth!
It was September 20, 2025, a Saturday, for Summit Project Acadia National Park 2025. I was assist team lead for “Team Red”. We hiked the Cannon Brook- to- Cadillac/Door Connector, Summiting 2 mountains; 1,550 vertical Feet, 3.1 miles, in 3 Hours 10 Minutes.
It was an excellent day, not too warm, plenty of sun, and (almost) as always in Acadia, great views of the coast!
While I did not know your son, I’m Certainly Glad we were able to go on a hike together that day! As I have done for a few of my friends and fellow serviceman who we have lost, I’ll also pass on your son’s legacy as well. My children have already heard his name and story through my involvement with The Summit Project. His story will continue.
Very Sorry for your loss,
-Matt Straniero
Matt, your message touched my wife and me deeply. We are so very grateful for the time, care, and sincerity you put into honoring our son, Ken, during your 3-mile hike in Acadia. Wow! Two summits in three hours! What a wonderful experience and special time for you to form a special bond with Ken, just as you’ve done for your friends and fellow servicemen.
Reading how you connected with Ken’s spirit, his love of the outdoors, teaching, hobbies, and even his “Guy Smiley” nickname, means more to us than we could ever express. Knowing that his name was spoken with laughter and warmth brings comfort to our hearts, especially since Ken loved hiking those same trails with his beloved dog, Ares.
We were deeply moved to hear that you’ve shared Ken’s story with your children and will continue to carry his legacy forward. We believe that “As long as we speak his name, he will live forever.”
Thank you for taking the time to get to know him, for representing him with such respect, and for keeping his memory alive through The Summit Project. Your kindness and thoughtfulness truly honor his life.
From a family who truly understands the sacrifices of our military and their loved ones, “Thank you for your service.”
P.S. Ken always wanted us to hike Cadillac with him, but it was a memory never meant to be. We will, however, make that trip just for him one day in the future, and standing at the summit, we will speak his name loudly!