If you are an alum of Northwestern University in the past three decades, you no doubt have heard of Charlie Moskos. For other people he's merely the "don't ask, don't tell" guy, but for Northwestern alum he is THE professor to take a class with. His intro to sociology class is considered a seminal part of the undergrad experience at NU, up there with painting the rock and the primal scream. Six-hundred students every fall quarter cram into Ryan Auditorium at Tech to not really take his class, but to hear his stories. He was essentially a walking, talking encyclopedia on the American military and was the best raconteur I have ever had the pleasure to witness in person.
I was lucky enough my junior year fall quarter to finally have a high enough priority number to take his class and I remember being so psyched when I finally saw "Intro to Sociology 110 Moskos" open. He never lectured on material in the book and thus, you never had to go to class. However, to do so, would rob you of the intellectual profundity of the living legend that was Moskos. I was fortunate enough to have a five minute discussion with him on Kashmiri militants and was exposed to simultaneously the warmth of his personality and the sheer depth of his knowledge. Despite being a confidante and friend to magnates like Bill Clinton, Wes Clark, and other prestigious figures, he was extremely down-to-earth, a rare exception amongst the decorated scholars at NU.
Little did I know, that was the last year he would teach the class. A protracted struggle with prostate cancer took Professor Moskos from us two days ago. I'm still in shock, to be frank. Just three years ago he was as vibrant as someone half his age, but that's cancer for you.
I'm deeply saddened by the news of his passing and I think I speak for literally thousands of former Northwestern students when I say that. My condolences go to the Moskos family and I hope my alma mater prepares a fitting memorial for him. Rest in peace, Professor Moskos.
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