2024-Issue 4 Alumni Review

ALUMNI REVIEW

2024 - Issue 4

In This Issue . . .

This issue includes class notes and news items covering the time period of May 16, 2024, to Aug. 15, 2024.

PUBLISHER

VMI Alumni Agencies

Chief Executive Officer: David Prasnicki

Chief Communications Officer: Amy Goetz

Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Moore

Assistant Editor: Mattie Montgomery

Communications Officer: Scott Belliveau ’83

Designer: Joe Czekner

Development Writer: Mary Price

ALUMNI REVIEW ONLINE vmialumni.org/alumnireview

PUBLISHING OFFICE

VMI Alumni Agencies

Alumni Review Office

VMI Moody Hall, P.O. Box 932 Lexington, VA 24450 review@vmiaa.org | 540/464-7221

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The VMI Alumni Review (USPS 954-740) is published four times yearly in fall, winter, spring, and summer by the VMI Alumni Agencies, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450. It is sent to alumni and friends of the Institute without subscription.

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A Message From

John Adams ’96

VMI Board of Visitors President

I hope this finds you and your families enjoying a wonderful and healthy fall. At the Institute, the fall semester is in full swing.

On Aug. 17, the Rat Mass of 2025+3 matriculated. Think about that for a moment. Matriculation. I am guessing you have your own distinct memories of that experience. As a member of the Class of 1996, that first day and the weeks following are burned indelibly in my mind. The cold dew on the grass during morning workouts, the garbled-sounding turnouts I could barely understand, and the almost indescribable and diametrically opposed mix of loneliness and brother rat spirit at the end of each day, lying on my hay, wondering if I would sleep through the night. I look back on that young man, coming out of Midlothian High School in Richmond, Virginia, and think about the fundamental change that would occur over the next four years.

At the end of the day, that is really what it is all about. It is, in fact, our mission. We “welcomed” nearly 500 rats to Lexington in August as we have done for 185 years, and the Institute’s mission still stands—to develop matriculants into highly educated, honorable, and selfless citizensoldiers over the next four years. Our mission is also our promise. We owe it to them. And we owe it to them to do it very well. They chose us—they, in the words of VMI, “didn’t do ordinary.”

I sometimes think those of us in the VMI family—myself included—take for granted what it takes to actually make

that transformation successful. It is a Herculean effort requiring the well-coordinated work of many different people.

It takes the current Corps of Cadets—still young and aspiring leaders in the midst of their own transformation—running a system to bring the new cadets along, all while learning their own lessons along the way. It takes an administration, including our new commandant and his staff, to oversee the process and ensure it is done in a smart, fair, professional, and rigorous manner. Nobody chooses VMI because it is easy, and we owe the incoming rats challenges that will push them to discover the true extent of their capabilities.

We must not forget it takes our talented faculty an enormous amount of effort to provide excellent academic instruction, while being aware of the ongoing and demanding co-curricular activities faced by each member of the Corps. One of the things I appreciated the most about my cadetship was the professors and the deeply personal and genuine care they had for the success of their cadets. I have long been an evangelist for VMI’s academic program. I think it is severely underrated by those who have no experience with the Institute.

My career has brought me into contact with many individuals from the most prestigious Ivy League schools. Having experienced those interchanges, I am thoroughly convinced the academic rigor at VMI provides our cadets

with a first-rate education that rewards hard and honorable work. This is all reflected in our culture, where our cadets have almost unparalleled respect for those wearing academic stars—an outward indication of academic excellence attained by hard work and determination. I am not aware of any other college where students share such notable and open respect for the academic achievement of their peers.

The same is true for our coaches. As all of you know, there is a long list of legendary coaches who were not simply coaches but meaningful figures who cared for their cadet-athletes far beyond the athletic field and stadium. They knew and understood they were a part of something bigger than just their sport.

The staff and leadership at the VMI Alumni Agencies work tirelessly, often behind the scenes, to provide time and talent in support of the admissions, recruiting, retention, and career support to VMI cadets and graduates. And of course, they raise the funds each year to support our unique style of education. Without those funds, none of this could happen. Indeed, without them, you wouldn’t be reading this message.

Beyond that, the superintendent and his senior staff have an enormous responsibility to oversee the entire operation. This encompasses significant challenges, including financial and budgetary issues, the changing landscape of NCAA athletics, the competition for talented new college applicants, and overseeing an education system that is, to say the least, unique. Many who have not had an experience with VMI, other military colleges, or even the military in general sometimes struggle to understand what we do, how we do it, and—more importantly—why we do it.

of the Rat Line, our leadership of the regimental system, our barracks-oriented class system, and above all else, our single-sanction honor code.

These are the traditions and standards that have made us what we have become. It allows us to ensure the Corps of Cadets will be prepared for leadership in the 21st century. At the same time, we must continue to compete for the very best students. That means keeping our eyes forward and ensuring we have the best facilities, professors, coaches, majors, and commissioning options so the next generation will see VMI continue to offer the same opportunities for them that it has for us all.

“At the end of the day, it really is all about them—those roughly 500 young men and women who walked into barracks for the first time less than three months ago.”

And then there is the VMI Board of Visitors. The BOV is ultimately responsible for the conduct and success of the Institute. As the new board president, I can assure you of this: We are entirely focused on excellence. VMI must be excellent in everything it does. We must fully embrace our unique educational program, our adversarial system

I will close with this. Think back to your Matriculation Day. Think back to how you have benefited from your experience with VMI. Consider whether there is something you might want to do for VMI. You can always contribute funds, and I can assure you financial support is very, very much needed. But what about that neighbor who is looking at colleges? A particularly impressive young man or woman? Have you talked to them about what VMI did for you? Have you reached out lately to your brother rats? Attended a rat send-off? Also, have you been to Lexington with some friends for a football or basketball game? I cannot recommend enough for you to do so—not only for the experience but to talk to the cadets and see what’s happening in Lexington for yourselves. VMI is such a special place. When you step on post, talk to a cadet, and take in the scene, I think you will find it rejuvenating.

At the end of the day, it really is all about them—those roughly 500 young men and women who walked into barracks for the first time less than three months ago. We owe it to them to give them rigorous challenges, the time-tested inculcation into living honorable lives, and the experience of our unparalleled brother rat spirit that comes from unique and shared experiences of living with your brother rats in barracks. Let’s get together and make that happen.

I sure hope to see many of you in Lexington this year. God bless our team and VMI.

Vinci ’93 Retires

U.S. Navy Capt. Greg Vinci ’93 (center) retires after 31 years of service in the Navy Civil Engineer Corps at a ceremony held at the Military Women’s Memorial at Arlington National Ceremony Aug. 9, 2024. Vinci is a Seabee Combat Warfare Officer, registered professional engineer in the state of North Carolina, member of the Acquisition Professional Community, and member of the Society of American Military Engineers.

’11

U.S. Navy Reserve Cmdr. Colleen Wall ’05 (right) relinquishes command of Naval Beach Group Two to Lt. Cmdr. Fredy Jurkowitsch II ’11 at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek–Fort Story in April 2024.

U.S. Army Col. Brandon Smith ’96, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center chief of staff, promotes N. Alex Lamb ’08 (right) to lieutenant colonel at Naval Station Norfolk Aug. 9, 2024. Lamb currently serves at Naval Station Norfolk, but both Smith and Lamb recently served together with the 1st Infantry Division at Fort Riley, Kansas.

Kier ’14 Promotes to Major

U.S. Army Maj. Ben Kier ’14 is joined by brother rats for his promotion ceremony to major along the Potomac River near the Washington Monument June 18, 2024. Pictured are (from left) Trevor Tafolla ’14, Kyle Reavis ’14, Kier, Joe Kohm ’14, and U.S. Army Capt. Jonathan Vignali ’14.

Class of 2017 Brother Rats Serve in Middle East

Serving

a

Martin ’14 Promotes to Major

U.S. Air Force Maj. L.J. Martin ’14 is promoted to major at the Air Force Memorial in Arlington, Virginia, in May 2024.

on

deployment in the Middle East are (from left) U.S. Army Capts. Eric Wicks ’17, Luke Phillips ’17, and Connor Wooten ’17.

Alumni Reconnect on Deployment

Reconnecting at Mihail Kogălniceanu Air Base, Romania, while on a deployment supporting Operation Atlantic Resolve in spring 2024 are U.S. Army Capts. John Genkinger ’18 and Jake Cochran ’18 and 1st Lts. Rachael Dickenson ’22, Paul Boucher ’21, Hannah Yoder ’22, Mike Tulskie ’22, and Will Fincher ’22.

Marconi ’23, Parramore ’23, Powers ’23 Graduate Ranger School

U.S. Army 2nd Lts. Ryan Marconi ’23, Samuel Parramore ’23, and Robert Powers ’23 graduate from Army Ranger School July 19, 2024. At the graduation ceremony are (from left) Marconi, U.S. Army Capt. Robert Hendren ’15, Parramore, Powers, U.S. Army 2nd Lt. Cameron Cavanaugh ’23, and U.S. Army 1st Lt. Andrew Farmer ’21.

Hogan ’22, Anderson ’22, Numa ’23 Graduate Pathfinder School

Graduating from U.S. Army Pathfinder School are 1st Lts. Ethan Hogan ’22 and Brian Anderson ’22 and 2nd Lt. Michael Numa ’23.

Hogan (right) graduates Pathfinder School.

Anderson (left) graduates Pathfinder School.

Numa (center) graduates Pathfinder School.

In Memory: Dabney Coleman ’53

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

Dabney W. Coleman ’53, award-winning film and television actor who was the national chairman of VMI Annual Giving during the Sesquicentennial Campaign from 1989–90, died May 16, 2024. He was 92.

His father, who died when Coleman was 4 years old, was Melvin R. Coleman, Class of 1921. Coleman had other alumni relatives, as well, including an uncle, Claude D. Johns Jr., Class of 1915, and a cousin, Col. Glover S. Johns, Class of 1931, who was commandant of cadets from 1957–60. Coleman matriculated from Corpus Christi, Texas, in fall 1949, taking the train to Lexington with his mother and staying at the venerable Dutch Inn before he matriculated.

He was a corporal in his 3rd Class year. Michael Huffman ’86, who was a longtime friend, said Coleman admitted that, as a corporal, he was more than a little hard-nosed. Coleman later said he drew upon his behavior in barracks to create the archetype, described by one writer as “comedic bad guys,” for which he was widely known. He did not return after his 3rd Class year and entered the University of Texas, from which he graduated in 1953. He served in the U.S. Army from 1953–55, including a tour in Germany with the Special Services Division. Afterward, he entered law school at the University of Texas.

In 1958, however, at the urging of a local actor, Coleman decided to pursue acting. He moved to New York and enrolled at Sanford Meisner’s Neighborhood Playhouse School of the Theatre. There, Coleman met Sydney Pollack, an instructor who would later cast him in several films. His classmates included Elizabeth Ashley, James Caan, Christopher Lloyd, Brenda Vaccaro, and Jean Hale. In 1961, Coleman made his sole Broadway appearance in “A Call on Kuprin.” In the same year, he had a speaking role in an episode of the television series “The Naked City,” beginning an association with television that would last almost 60 years.

Kildare,” “The Outer Limits,” “Hazel,” “I Dream of Jeannie,” and the soap opera “Bright Promise.”

In 1965, Coleman made his initial film appearance in Pollack’s first movie, “The Slender Thread.” Over the next several years, he acted in more films, including “The Trouble with Girls,” “Cinderella Liberty,” and “The Towering Inferno,” as well as two directed by Pollack. Between his debut and his final appearance in 2016’s “Rules Don’t Apply,” he appeared in more than 45 films.

By the mid-1970s, Coleman had grown his trademark mustache and, not long afterward, accepted what turned out to be a career-altering role in the syndicated show “Mary Hartman, Mary Hartman.” The show, which aired from

by Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin, and Dolly Parton—engineer his comeuppance. The comedy was 1980’s second largest-grossing movie and brought Coleman widespread attention.

In short order, film producers cast him as characters who had some—often many—unattractive traits. Among the films in which Coleman played this type of character were “Tootsie” (directed by Pollack), “WarGames,” “You’ve Got Mail,” and “The Man with One Red Shoe.” When he played the lead in three movies—“Cloak and Dagger,” “Short Time,” and “Where the Heart Is”—however, he eschewed the typical Dabney Coleman role, playing instead, as his daughter, Quincy Coleman, put it, “intense professionals who found midlife redemption as fathers.”

January 1976–July 1977, parodied soap operas and featured offbeat characters embroiled in ever more offbeat situations. Coleman’s role was Merle Jeeter, who became the local mayor and, according to him, “was just the worst human being.” The writers had included the character in only six episodes, but Coleman’s performance cemented it—and him—as a permanent fixture. In 2012, he described the part as “kind of where it all started, as far as people’s belief that I could do comedy—particularly that negative, caustic, cynical kind of guy. I was pretty good at doing that.”

In 1962, Coleman moved to Los Angeles, California. Over the next several years, he appeared in numerous commercials and many popular television shows, such as “Ben Casey,” “Dr.

In 1979, Coleman took the role that brought him to prominence. In the movie “9 to 5,” he played a tyrannical business executive who bullies and berates his staff, three of whom—played

Coleman returned to television in the early 1980s as the lead in “Buffalo Bill” and “The Slap Maxwell Story.” In them, he played, respectively, an acerbic, self-absorbed TV talk show host and an abrasive sportswriter with a talent for rubbing people the wrong way. He later played a former corporate executive serving a sentence for tax evasion as a middle school teacher in “Drexell’s Class” and was a largerthan-life magazine columnist in “Madman of the People.”

Coleman continued to turn in solid dramatic performances. In 1981, he played the romantic interest of Fonda’s character in “On Golden Pond.” He was the father of a disgraced lawyer in the series “The Guardian” (2001–04), an attorney defending a murder suspect in “Sworn to Silence,” and a murder suspect in a 1991 episode of “Colombo.” He also did voice work for animation, such as a mustachioed school principal, Peter Prickly, in the series “Recess.”

Despite advancing age and health problems, Coleman kept working. “He swore he’d never retire,” recalled Huffman. And he was true to his word. He appeared in the first two seasons of “Boardwalk Empire” as Commodore Louis Kaestner, the villainous mentor of the main character, and in episodes of “Ray Donovan” and “NCIS.” His final role came in 2019 when, in the second season finale of “Yellowstone,”

Dabney W. Coleman ’53 (right) with Bernie Brillstein (left) and Kathy Carter (center).—Photo courtesy Quincy Coleman.

he played John Dutton Sr., the father of the series’ main character. This moving performance showed that, even in his late 80s, Coleman was capable of solid acting.

Coleman received a Golden Globe award as Best Actor in a Television Series—Musical or Comedy for “The Slap Maxwell Story” in 1987 and, in the same year, a Primetime Emmy as Best Actor in a Supporting Role for “Sworn to Silence.” He collected two Screen Actors Guild Awards as part of the cast of “Boardwalk Empire” in 2011 and 2012. He received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2014. Three years later, the International Press Academy, a Los Angeles-based association of entertainment journalists, presented him with its Mary Pickford Award for Outstanding Artistic Contribution to the Entertainment Industry.

Coleman’s ties to VMI went deep. Besides his father, he had many relatives from his mother’s side who were alumni. “He comes from a lengthy line of family members who attended, and his respect and love for the Institute never wavered,” said Huffman. “He was proud of this association, and he cherished any opportunity to help the Institute.”

Most alumni remember Coleman’s role in the Sesquicentennial Campaign that occurred in the late 1980s. Gregory M. Cavallaro ’84, who would later become Keydet Club chief executive officer, recounted how it came about. “In the ’80s, when I was the director of VMI Annual Giving for the VMI Foundation, we had national chairmen for Annual Giving. As we began to organize for the VMI Sesquicentennial Campaign, Harry Warner ’57 [then the Foundation executive vice president] asked me who I thought the national chairman should be. Understanding our ambitious goal of raising $50 million through Annual Giving, I suggested we go national in scope and strongly encouraged him to invite Dabney Coleman to consider the post.”

Cavallaro recalled that Coleman announced his acceptance of the invitation “in true Coleman fashion.” Warner had sent him a letter inviting him to serve as national chairman. “Weeks went by, and we still had not heard back from Coleman. On the eve of our annual Class Agent Conference, I was watching ‘Late Night with David Letterman,’ and Letterman said, ‘We’ll be right back with our next guest, Dabney Coleman.’ I quickly started my VCR, capturing what happened next.

“Letterman said to Coleman, ‘I understand you went to a military school,’ and Coleman confirmed, ‘Yes, VMI.’ Letterman responded, ‘Oh, the West Point of the South,’ and Coleman responded, ‘No, you have that wrong; West Point is the VMI of the North.’ He then

said, ‘I actually recently received an invitation inviting me to be the national chairman for their upcoming major campaign.’ Letterman replied, ‘I think you’d make a great fundraiser,’ to which Dabney responded, ‘Oh, yeah? Well, let’s see.’ He then asked Letterman for a gift in support of VMI. The audience went wild! Letterman said he didn’t have his checkbook with him. Dabney paused, waited for the audience to quiet down, and then, with perfect timing, said, ‘You don’t have $10 to give to VMI? That’s pathetic!’ The crowd went wild again. That was the first we heard that he would be a part of the campaign!” Cavallaro used the video to start the Class Agent Conference the next day.

The campaign was the first of its kind to utilize a videotape mailed to alumni and friends and a follow-up phone-a-thon. Coleman agreed to narrate the video and appear in it. Coleman returned to VMI in conjunction with this effort—first for the 1987 announcement of the Sesquicentennial Campaign and then later to do the actual filming of the video.

Huffman accompanied him on the initial visit to Lexington. “It was his first time back in 35 years. As we drove from Dulles airport, we chatted about all sorts of things. But, as soon as he saw barracks from Route 11, all lit up, he went silent. We drove straight to barracks, and he stood in [Main] Arch, taking in the sights and sounds of barracks at night. He was visibly emotional.”

“The effort was a huge success,” said Cavallaro. “We could not get videos out fast enough. We had alumni asking when they would get their video and a call from cadets.” It led to unprecedented levels of alumni support. In fact, participation jumped to an all-time high of 56.9%. VMI ranked in the Top 10 of all colleges and universities in terms of participation and was No.1 of all public schools in the country.

Coleman was proud of his role in the campaign, according to Cavallaro. At Coleman’s home in the ’90s, Cavallaro described the following scene: “After being a gracious host and getting everyone a drink, Dabney announced for everyone to head for the living room. As he reached into the TV cabinet for something, a guy yelled out, ‘Dabney, we love you, and we love VMI, but please, not the video again!’ Dabney shot back, ‘Well, you have your first drink. If you want another, in honor of my guests from VMI and Lexington, you got to watch the video!’”

In addition to hosting at his home, the restaurant Dan Tana’s figured prominently in Coleman’s social life. In fact, he visited so often that the restaurant named his favorite dish, an 18-ounce New York strip steak, “New York Steak, Dabney Coleman.” This put Coleman among such august company as George Clooney

and Frank Sinatra. And at Dan Tana’s, there is a tangible mark of Coleman’s relationship with the restaurant and VMI. After a black-tie dinner at the Beverly Hilton for the campaign in the late 1980s, a large group of alumni, including Coleman, went there for what Huffman described as “a wonderful nightcap to a fabulous evening.” The owner picked up the entire tab for the group. Not long afterward, the local alumni presented the restaurant with a glass-enclosed shako with a brass plate inscribed, “To Dan, from his friends at the Virginia Military Institute.” It remains on display in the main dining room.

The end of the campaign did not end Coleman’s support of cadets and the Institute. “He’d always ask about how things were going with the cadets, and whenever he was on the East Coast, he would try to come to Lexington,” said Cavallaro. “More than anything, he enjoyed engaging cadets—and frequenting The Palms.” Coleman established a fund at VMI in honor of Glover Johns and later a track and cross country scholarship in his honor. An example of the closeness Coleman had to the Corps came in 2008 when Hannah Granger ’11, who attended VMI on the scholarship (and would later receive the Keydet Club’s Three-Legged Stool Award), did not have a date for Ring Figure. She invited Coleman to escort her, and he did. In 2020, Coleman, who had long worn his uncle’s class ring, contacted Cavallaro, asking if it would be possible for him to receive his own class ring. “I contacted the class agent, Bill Noell ’53, and Parker Cross ’53 and made the case for allowing it because he had done so much for VMI. They agreed, and the Alumni Association sent the ring to a very appreciative Dabney Coleman in 2021.”

Quincy Coleman said of her father’s relationship with the Institute, “Along with a lifelong friendship with his roommate, James Eads ’53, VMI was a force that coursed through my father’s veins. Without a doubt, VMI was one of the loves of his life.”

Huffman remembered Coleman as a close friend. “We rarely spoke about television or movies. He always wanted to know how I was doing—personally and professionally. We would talk about his four kids and grandchildren, my family, music, sports, and VMI. He would set up dates for us to talk on the phone when I was going through a challenging time. He loved his family and made you feel like you were one of them. He was truly one of a kind—and a genius at his craft.”

Coleman was married to Ann C. Harrell from 1957–59 and to Jean Hale from 1961–83. He is survived by his four children; five grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and sister, Beverly Coleman McCall.

Havird ’90: New Commandant Focuses on Leadership Development

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Lawrence Havird ’90 assumed duties as VMI commandant Aug. 5, 2024.—VMI

Photo by Kelly Nye.

By Mary Price, Development Writer

“We need a lot more George C. Marshalls coming out of the Institute for the next few decades.” That’s what retired U.S. Air Force Col. Lawrence “Ley” Havird ’90, the Institute’s new commandant, has to say about his vision for producing leaders.

The mission of VMI is about “developing leaders, regardless of where they go on to after leaving the Institute, whether it’s in the corporate world, civil service, or military service,” said Havird. “Our nation is in a deficit of leadership across all areas, and I’m pleased to be a product of VMI, having the opportunity to pay [it] forward back to VMI in the development of the future leaders that our nation will need.”

Havird, who served in the Air Force for 32 years, began his new position as the Institute’s 59th commandant Aug. 5, 2024. Prior to his return to post, he served as an academic advisor for the College of Health and Human Development at Pennsylvania State University. His last military posting was also at Penn State, where he served as detachment commander for the Air Force ROTC unit from 2020–23.

Havird’s father was a career naval officer, and by the time Havird was in high school, his father was assigned to the naval base in Norfolk, Virginia, and the family was living in nearby Portsmouth. Havird, a baseball player, first heard about VMI from Carl Rhodes ’66, his coach at Churchland High School, but with the high concentration of VMI alums in Tidewater, there were plenty of other influences, as well, like the late Bill Crone ’64. Havird would go on to be roommates with Rhodes’ and Crone’s sons, Carl “Trey” Rhodes III ’90 and Steven “Dusty” Crone ’90, during his cadetship.

vector of, ‘You either get north of a 2.0, or you’re not going back,’” Havird recalled. “So, I learned how to study between the third week of November and finals. I got through finals, and I managed above 2.0, and it was kind of the tipping point for me academically. I learned that I was capable.”

With the help of Col. Mike Monsour (Hon), Ph.D., then-professor of modern languages, Havird overcame his academic challenges and became a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. In addition, he lettered on the baseball team his 2nd and 1st Class years.

When Havird commissioned into the Air Force, a long military career wasn’t his goal, but he kept being offered interesting assignments. Then, the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, became a defining moment in Havird’s career and solidified the self-acknowledged “late bloomer” as someone willing to go all in.

“The chance to serve in this capacity at my alma mater is both humbling and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

“I was stationed at Fairchild Air Force Base in Washington state in an operations officer position when 9/11 occurred, and the world changed,” he stated. “The sense of duty and service—it more leaned into the things I had recollected but probably didn’t recognize at VMI in terms of tactical level leadership and positively influencing others.”

When the late Donnie White ’65, then the Institute’s baseball coach, recruited Havird as a walk-on baseball player, Bill Crone drove Havird to post for a look around and an interview with Col. William “Buck” Buchanan ’50B, then-director of admissions. Based on that interview, Havird was admitted—but a severe academic challenge lay ahead.

Havird described himself as a “middle of the road” student in high school whose grades and SAT scores didn’t reflect his true ability. “I would say I had the potential, but I had not been tested,” he noted. At VMI, the rigors of the Rat Line, coupled with academic demands, left him with a grade point average below 2.0 by Thanksgiving—and that earned him a tongue-lashing from his irate father. “He gave me the

During his military career, Havird held various officer leadership assignments at multiple locations and was deployed to Kyrgyzstan, Diego Garcia, and Qatar. He was a squadron commander for four units and led three maintenance groups as a colonel. In addition to his VMI degree, he holds two master’s degrees: One in military studies from the American Military University in Charles Town, West Virginia, and the second in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island.

“The chance to serve in this capacity at my alma mater is both humbling and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Havird. “I wish to thank Major General Wins [’85] for his support and confidence in extending the chance to continue service in the development of future leaders. The lessons and mentorship I received as a cadet at VMI were foundational to a successful Air Force career. My goal as commandant is to inspire, challenge, and guide cadets in becoming the confident, decisive, and innovative leaders our nation will need to navigate future challenges.”

Joining Havird in Lexington will be his wife, Jennifer, and their two teenage daughters.

Pritchard ’25:

By Mary Price, Development Writer

Regimental Commander

“I have an opportunity to actually make a difference for other people, and so it’s exciting.” That’s what Cadet Brian Pritchard ’25, the 2024–25 regimental commander, has to say about being chosen to lead the Corps of Cadets. Pritchard, an English major from Thornton, Colorado, plans to commission into the U.S. Marine Corps.

With a lifelong desire to serve in the military and a special attraction to the Marine Corps, Pritchard decided to attend Marine Military Academy in Harlingen, Texas, for high school. When a fellow Marine Military graduate matriculated at VMI and later told Pritchard, “Oh, it’s hard!” Pritchard knew he’d found his school.

“I chose to come to VMI because of the challenge.”

“I chose to come to VMI because of the challenge,” said Pritchard, a recipient of a 4-year Marine Corps scholarship. “I wanted to do something harder.”

After taking a year off due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Pritchard matriculated at VMI in August 2021, over a year after his first very brief visit to post for an admissions open house in early March 2020, just before the pandemic hit.

Even on the worst days in the Rat Line, Pritchard never thought about abandoning the uncommon path he’d chosen. “There were a few times in the Rat Line [when] I wanted to enlist, but it was either VMI or that was it,” he stated. “I didn’t want to go to any other school.”

During his cadetship, Pritchard has been a member of both the club ice hockey team and the jiu-jitsu club. He’s been deepening his academic interests, earning concentrations in

art history and visual culture, literary studies, and rhetoric and writing, all of which are offered through the Department of English, Rhetoric, and Humanistic Studies, and he’s been climbing through the leadership ranks in Company I.

Pritchard credits VMI with instilling a structure and discipline that will serve as the basis of his future Marine Corps career. “There’s a lot of things in life that nobody wants to do, but we still have to do them,” he commented. “I think VMI is giving that structure—it makes you more disciplined, doing the little things, shaving every day, shining your brass and your shoes, and making sure your uniform actually looks good. I think those little things build discipline.”

In spring 2024, just a few weeks after being named regimental commander for the upcoming academic year, Pritchard outlined his plans for leading the Corps. “I’m looking forward to being regimental commander because I’m not doing it for a resume or for anything else,” he stated. “I’m doing it so I can actually serve the people here and work for the Corps and help them. That’s how I see the position—I’m there for them and there to help them, the entire Corps, whether it be to go to bat for them at different things or explain why certain things are happening.”

Pritchard also wants to increase the Corps’ esprit de corps and pride in the Institute, as VMI’s cohesiveness is one of its biggest strengths. “You’re all in it together,” he said. “You’re all doing the same things. Nobody’s really above anybody.”

He believes the Rat Line effectively introduces that concept from the moment new cadets march into the barracks to meet their cadre. “Everyone’s coming from all different places, but then the second you get taken into barracks, what you’ve done and where you come from—nobody cares. You’re all on the same playing field. ... It’s what you do here that matters. You can build yourself up from here: It’s a new start.”

And just before he departed post for the summer furlough, Pritchard was anticipating his own new start as the Corps of Cadets’ servant leader, setting the standard for all cadets. “I’m very excited to lead my peers and just work for them, to serve them in any way that I can, and help them.”

Alberti ’25:

By Mary Price, Development Writer

Honor Court President

Cadet Elijah Alberti ’25 came to VMI as a first-generation college student seeking a U.S. Marine Corps commission. He’s on track to fulfill his goals of graduating and commissioning—and this year, he’ll fill a revered role, as well: Honor Court president.

“Being elected as the Honor Court president was very humbling,” said Alberti, an international studies major with a Chinese minor who’s a member of VMI’s Brazilian jiu-jitsu club. He was first elected to the court in the spring of his 3rd Class year and named an assistant prosecutor in the spring of his 2nd Class year. Today, Alberti can remember his surprise when he was elected as a guardian of something fundamental to the cadet experience ever since the Institute’s founding.

“I was excited and a little bit surprised to think that I was associated with something that so many cadets hold dear,” he stated. “I was definitely surprised because I look up to a lot of my own BRs and kind of have reverence for them myself, so to think that they associate me with something like that is pretty impressive.”

As a 1st Class cadet, Alberti can look back on his rat self and see an evolution, especially regarding honor at VMI. “As a rat, it’s kind of this almost ethereal thing that kind of hangs over everyone, and everyone subscribes to it, and it’s what we hold dear,” he said. “But I viewed those [cadets] on the Honor Court then as giants, and to think that myself and my other peers on the Honor Court get to fulfill those roles and kind of lead in a different way through the Honor Court is really special. It’s something I’m excited to do.”

Immediately after being elected Honor Court president in spring 2024, Alberti set a goal of educating the Corps. “I think that’s the Honor Court’s main effort in all facets, from the president down to assistant prosecutors,” he stated. “I think education is the primary reason why we do what we do—educating the Corps on different facets of the honor system ... not just the processes [and] carrying the spirit of the Honor Code into their daily lives, and not just here while they’re at VMI, but something they can take on into their careers.”

Education, he believes, is the most important job the Honor Court has. “It’s a court-wide effort, and then I’d say below that, it’s a Corpswide effort because it’s the responsibility of

the dykes to educate the rats, and then the 2nds to educate the rats, and it’s just a trickledown system that works its way down from the Honor Court,” Alberti explained.

And according to Alberti, that trickle-down system is working as intended. “I would say that the current state of the Honor Code is very strong,” he stated. “It’s just as strong as it’s ever been. ... I think what you’ll find is that cadets are abiding and living by the Honor Code. Those tenets of being honest and having integrity are just as prevalent as they were 30 to 40 years ago.”

Growing up, Alberti didn’t know anyone who’d been to VMI, but he was aware of the Institute, and because he’d always wanted to be a Marine, VMI was a natural fit. His grandfather, whom Alberti describes as “the biggest VMI fan, other than myself,” served in the Marine Corps, and in a wonderful coincidence, Alberti’s acceptance letter to the Institute arrived in the mail on the same day as his grandfather’s retirement party.

“To be able to show that to him on the day that he retired was a really proud moment for me,” Alberti noted. “It was a pretty emotional moment for both of us, just because of how big it was just to be able to go to college, and then something as unique as VMI was even bigger.”

Coming to VMI, Alberti was “taken aback by the initial experiences” during the Rat Line, but the thought of leaving never crossed his mind. As the oldest of seven siblings, he also knew that he needed to set an example for his younger brothers and sisters.

“I stuck it out because I knew the end result would be much better,” Alberti said. “I wanted to be a part of this thing that everyone else was a part of, and going through the Rat Line and seeing what everyone else has accomplished prior to me, I think, was a big reason for me sticking it out, especially through those first 5 to 6 months. ... You have your BRs to push you through.”

In May 2025, Alberti will complete his cadetship—and, hopefully, commission as a Marine Corps officer. “I look forward to that day, specifically, like seeing my BRs [and] how far we’ve come, and then that final moment of knowing I completed a journey that’s ... revered by so many,” he said. “I think that’ll be a really special moment for [me].”

Irony is an often-misused word. Some consider it a synonym for satire. Usually, though, it is an event or situation that contradicts expectations so dramatically that it becomes amusing. Long-time entrepreneur Mohammad “Moe” Khandan-Barani ’84 sees the irony in the fact his career has focused on something that challenged him as a cadet.

Khandan-Barani matriculated in 1980, 2 years after coming to the United States from Iran and enrolling at the Massanutten Military Academy. He then dreamed of flying fighters for the Imperial Iranian Air Force. During his time at Massanutten, however, a revolution in Iran replaced the shah with an Islamic republic. So, Khandan-Barani shifted to becoming an electrical engineer—and attending VMI.

Khandan-Barani ’84: VMI is Home

“I was completely clueless, and although I had attended a military high school, I didn’t know what to expect.” He soon learned about the Rat Line’s demands, although he says the experience was tempered somewhat by a language barrier. “My English wasn’t too good then, so I didn’t understand a lot of what the cadre and the other upperclassmen were yelling at me.” He quickly learned not to mention he had attended a military high school. “I noticed my BRs who admitted they had often received more attention. So, I didn’t let on until about 2 weeks before the Rat Line ended.”

A required course in the electrical engineering curriculum—taught by the formidable Col. Lee Nichols ’44, who Khandan-Barani remembers “looking like John Wayne”—covered electrical machinery. His experience with the course was not easy. “I flunked the first time I took it, and in my second attempt, I got a ‘C.’”

A year after graduation and newly married, Khandan-Barani was searching for a job and contacted Nichols, asking for recommendations. “He told me to contact a company in North Carolina, which, I discovered, made electrical machinery.” And it is in developing and manufacturing electrical machinery that Khandan-Barani has made his career. In fact, he has been awarded or applied for 25 patents in what he describes as “motion controls, motors, and drives,” with the first coming in the mid-1990s and the most recent in March 2024.

In 1989, Khandan-Barani moved to Radford, Virginia—which, as he puts it, “has been the ‘Silicon Valley’ of electric motors since the 1950s”—to work for the manufacturer Kellmorgen. After 7 years, he struck out on his own, creating Aspen Motion Technology in his garage. It would merge with another company to become Moog, which eventually employed 300 people and enjoyed $50 million in annual sales.

He retired in 2018, but he failed at it. “I still had some exciting ideas about improving electric motors.” So, he launched Aviemore Technologies, again from his garage. Needing capital to pursue his plans, he paired with an investor and created Oransi, for which he is now chief technology officer.

Operating from a factory in Radford since 2021, “Oransi currently manufactures air purifiers utilizing our proprietary patent pending motor technology,” explains Khandan-Barani. Sales have been brisk. Since March 2024, for example, it has sold more than 2,000 units, and Khandan-Barani sees substantial room for growth. “Our goal is 10,000 units a month and to increase the number of employees from our current 28 to 100 by mid- to late 2026.” He is confident Oransi can do this because “we have learned so much in 3 years. Now, we are

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

Above, Right: Mohammad “Moe” Khandan-Barani ’84, chief technology officer of Oransi, an air purifier manufacturer.

Oransi’s headquarters in Radford, Virginia.—Photos by Don Petersen, courtesy of Oransi.

impressive strategic plan, ‘Forging 21st Century Leaders,’ that lays out how VMI will remain strong and relevant while remaining loyal to its principles.”

experts, and it shows in our products’ quality.”

Encouraged by this success, Oransi plans to enter two other markets. The first is liquid cooling pumps for data centers. More than one-third of the world’s known “hyperscale” data centers are in Virginia—most in Northern Virginia—and companies are planning to create more. According to Khandan-Barani, these facilities require two things: Effective thermal management and massive amounts of electricity. And therein is his company’s opportunity. “Only liquid cooling can provide proper thermal management, and the industry is concerned the demand for power might outstrip the supply. Our solution: Super-efficient liquid cooling pumps that cut power demand by 20%.”

The second market is drones. “The global drone market is growing rapidly as people realize new commercial, industrial, and military applications for them. We see an opportunity to enter this $30-50 billion market in the form of developing propulsion systems that are very light, very powerful, very efficient, and all made in Radford.”

Are these ambitions too big for a company based in the New River Valley? “If you can dream it, you can do it,” Khandan-Barani asserts. “In modern manufacturing, the design stage is where you encounter major upfront costs. So, you must make it as efficient as possible by applying various technologies. Then, you must create an exceptionally lean manufacturing process that eliminates as much waste as possible. You also should work to make everything as simple as possible because simplicity is the ultimate luxury.” Asked to sum up this approach, he laughed,

“In a word: Innovate—and we already do it.” Innovation often comes to mind when Khandan-Barani thinks about VMI—and he thinks about it a lot. “Like most alumni, I think about it all the time and recall lots of great memories from my cadetship,” he said. “I am grateful to VMI because it set me on my professional path. I am more fortunate than most because I live relatively close and can visit frequently.”

So why does he associate innovation with the Institute? “VMI’s purpose is to prepare cadets to be effective leaders of strong character who will be successful in the next stage of their lives. That is what makes VMI valuable to the state and the country. Just like a business must constantly evaluate its processes and adjust based on those evaluations to remain competitive, VMI must examine every aspect of the cadet experience to ensure the education it provides cadets will prepare them to excel for the world they’ll enter after graduation. Then, adhering to its many strong traditions and never wavering from its principles, it must innovate. I know when many hear or see that word, they think of something that upends everything and disrupts everyone. But it usually doesn’t, and besides, it’s necessary.”

He is pleased by several changes the Institute has made recently, such as the establishment of a strong cybersecurity program. “The threats in cyberspace concern every business, government agency, and nonprofit, and so I am glad VMI seized the opportunity to become a leader in this field.” Asked how he sees VMI’s future, he replied, “I am very encouraged by the current leadership. Major General Wins [’85] recognizes the need to change, to innovate, and has issued an

Khandan-Barani applied his talents and gave much of that most precious commodity—time— as a member of the VMI Keydet Club Board of Governors from 2010–16. Khandan-Barani supports VMI financially, too, mainly through the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund. Providing cadets with scholarship support is his way of paying a debt. “When I was a cadet, it was hard to get money from Iran. It once looked like I might have to leave. My Brother Rat Bill Piper [’84] heard of my situation and contacted some people in the administration. Soon, I was working as a cadet waiter, and that helped me pay for my room and board. Ever since then, I have felt obligated to do something to help cadets financially.”

There’s more to it than that, however. “VMI has a big place in my heart because, to me, it is home. I’ve never been back to Iran; therefore, when people ask where I am from, I say, with all honesty, VMI.”

VMI Receives 5 Stars in Money Magazine Best Colleges List

By Marianne Hause, VMI Communications & Marketing

VMI has been rated a five-star college in Money Magazine’s Best Colleges in America list for 2024, in the magazine’s 10th year of publishing a Best Colleges list. Starting with a new system last year, Money assigns colleges a rating on a five-star scale, with five stars being the best. VMI was rated a 4.5-star college in 2023.

More than 740 colleges were scored based on factors in three main categories: Quality, which looks at graduation rates and Pell Grant recipient outcomes; affordability, which looks at both short- and long-term affordability, the net price of a degree, and the average student debt upon graduation; and outcomes, which is based on earnings and employment data 10 years after enrolling in the school.

VMI also appears on this year’s Best Public Colleges and Best Colleges in the South lists. Money reports that VMI graduates typically earn a median salary of $77,000 early in their careers. Previously, Money Magazine had a numbered ranking, and VMI came in at No. 5 overall out of the more than 620 colleges ranked on the magazine’s 2022 Best Colleges in America list.

The full Best Colleges list, along with the methodology, can be found at money.com/bestcolleges.

For information on how to apply to VMI, visit vmi.edu/apply.

Scan the QR Code below with your smartphone or tablet camera to view the list online.

New Music Director Arrives at VMI

By Marianne Hause, VMI Communications & Marketing

VMI cadets will march to the beat of a different director of music this fall, as Lt. Col. Matthew Halligan, a percussionist, has been hired to replace Col. John Brodie (Hon), who recently retired after 36 years.

Halligan, who will lead the Regimental Band, the Commanders Jazz Band, the Institute Brass Ensemble, the Herald Trumpets and Drummers, and the Cadet Buglers, holds a doctoral degree in music performance from George Mason University and has extensive experience in directing high school and college marching bands.

He comes to VMI from Missouri Western State University in Saint Joseph, Missouri, where he served as director of athletic bands and director of the percussion studio for 2 years. Prior to that, he worked at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, for 3 years, where he directed the Naval Academy Drum and Bugle Corps and oversaw all instrumental music ensembles, including the pep band, the jazz band, the pipes and drums band, and the Naval Academy Orchestra. In addition, he coordinated football halftime performances and performed with the Annapolis Symphony Orchestra.

Before working at the USNA, he was an adjunct faculty member for multiple colleges and universities, including Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria and Annandale, Virginia; Stevenson University in Stevenson, Maryland; and George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. He also worked with the marching bands at the University of Maryland in College Park and Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond, Kentucky.

After receiving a Bachelor of Music Education degree from the University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky, Halligan joined the U.S. Marine Corps as a member of The Commandant’s Own, the U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps at Marine Barracks in Washington, D.C. The ensemble performed worldwide, with Halligan playing marimba and serving as a percussion music arranger. While in the Corps, he earned a Master of Music degree from Eastern Kentucky University.

Halligan noted he was not looking for another position when he stumbled upon the VMI job listing, as he and his wife, Christine, were quite happy in Missouri. “I was intrigued by the job description, and after talking to Christine, who is from Virginia and still has family here, we decided that it was an amazing opportunity. I had previously lived in Northern Virginia for about 16 years, so many of my friends and professional colleagues are nearby, so it is kind of a homecoming.”

The Halligans are not unfamiliar with VMI. Christine’s father, Fred Bauer ’72, is a VMI alumnus who majored in history. The job combines several of Halligan’s interests: The military, military history, teaching at a military college, marching, music, and athletic bands. “Altogether, this really seemed to make a lot of sense for my professional interests. I’m up for the challenge, and there’s a good template already established by Colonel Brodie,” he stated.

Upon arriving on post, Halligan was already working on recruiting new members to Band Company by reaching out to the incoming rats, especially those who attended the Summer

Transition Program, to gauge interest in the Regimental Band and the Pipe Band. He hopes to start a cadet concert band soon if his schedule and budget allow, as many new instruments would need to be purchased. “I think everybody would enjoy a change of pace from a lot of the marching, and it can be a great chance for the band members to work on their musicianship, play some slower pieces, and even some faster pieces in a different genre.”

Col. Kevin Faust ’96, commandant’s office chief of staff, looks forward to working alongside Halligan. “He is uniquely positioned, as a former member of the U.S. Marine Drum and Bugle Corps and director of the Naval Academy Drum and Bugle Corps, to make an immediate and positive impact within our community. Halligan’s passion for music and the rapport that he is already building with our cadets make clear that the future of the VMI band is in good hands,” said Faust.

The Halligans will reside in Lexington with their two young sons, Brody and Caleb, as well as their golden retriever, Shosti, and Lady, a whippet mix.

Lt. Col. Matthew Halligan shares information about the Regimental Band with incoming rats during the Summer Transition Program.—VMI Photo by Marianne Hause.

VMI Matriculates 498 Into Rat Mass

By Marianne Hause, VMI Communications & Marketing

Matriculation Day at VMI was held Aug. 17, 2024, beginning the Rat Line for the new academic year. This year marks the 185th year of the Institute. Since 1839, VMI has been built on the core values of honor, excellence, self-discipline, courage, esprit de corps, selfless service, and resilience.

The balmy day included a fair in Cocke Hall where incoming cadets and their families met with local churches, VMI coaches and clubs, and community organizations. Various other VMI agencies were present, including the chaplain’s office staff with their new facility dog, CAVU, experiencing his first Matriculation Day. Also part of the process were uniform fittings and issuing of athletic uniforms in Cameron Hall, completion of paperwork, meeting department faculty, and the traditional signing of the Matriculation Book in the Corps Physical Training Facility. Throughout the morning, barracks teemed with parents assisting their cadets in moving into their rooms and meeting their roommates.

In the afternoon, the Chaplain’s Prayer, an optional nondenominational prayer session for matriculants and their families, was held in Memorial Hall, followed by the superintendent’s welcome in Cameron Hall.

Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, welcomed the incoming matriculants and their families. He reminded the young

men and women who will become the Class of 2028 that they will be challenged in the coming days, but they have come to VMI to succeed, not fail. He reminded them that the rat training only lasts about 6 months out of their 4-year cadetship and to keep it all in perspective. He advised them to lean into the training and never quit.

Col. Lawrence Havird ’90, VMI’s new commandant, also addressed the rats. He pointed out that incoming cadets chose VMI because they wanted a challenge and a journey less traveled. He said to succeed at VMI, they must be willing and committed teammates. “Get to know each other quickly. Work together. Give your best each day, and strive to be better the next day,” said Havird.

The matriculants took the Cadet Oath during the ceremony. With hugs, cheers, and a few tears, they bade goodbye to their families and formed up with their companies for the first time. After marching up to barracks, they met their cadre.

This year’s Rat Mass comes from 36 states, six foreign countries, the District of Columbia, and Guam, with 62% matriculating from Virginia and 38% from out of state. Eighty-six are female, and 168 are recruited NCAA athletes. Forty-nine percent have selected a major in STEM disciplines, and 51% are majoring in the liberal arts.

Sean Bergman, Rat Mass of ’25+3, a history major from Richmond, Virginia, is the nephew of Melissa S. Krawiec ’01, D.O., Institute physician, who was a member of the first coeducational class at VMI. Krawiec shared that she is immensely proud of Bergman.

“Sean spent the last year working in the ‘real world,’ putting in long hours and hard work, and comes to VMI with experiences that a lot of rats have not had. I think that perspective makes him appreciate the opportunity to be in school and influence his own future. The fact that he chose VMI has, I think, very little to do with me and everything to do with his goals for his own future. Sean is excited and committed to doing well at VMI, and I can’t wait to see what’s next,” shared Krawiec.

Bergman wanted his first day as a rat to make a difference in the lives of others, so anticipating his rat haircut, he refrained from cutting his hair for nearly 3 years in order to have hair long enough to donate to Children With Hair Loss, a nonprofit organization that provides human hair replacements at no cost to children and young adults facing medically related hair loss.

The matriculation process continued throughout the week, with the cadre leading the new arrivals in military drills and physical training, culminating with the Rat Crucible Aug. 27. The Rat Mass will officially become the Class of 2028 in the spring semester after Breakout.

Scan the QR Code below with your smartphone or tablet camera to view all of the VMI Alumni Agencies images from this event.

2024 RAT CRUCIBLE

Matriculation Week culminated with Rat Crucible, which included training on North Post, running on the Woods Creek Trail, and swimming to Jordan’s Point Aug. 25, 2024. The event concluded with a march up Letcher Avenue and the rats’ first Old Yell.

Do you enjoy viewing photos from cadet and alumni events?

The VMI Alumni Agencies is pleased to announce a new photo website. Photos include both alumni and some annual VMI events, such as matriculation and Rat Crucible. While these photos are copyright VMI Alumni Agencies, they are free for personal use and can be downloaded directly from the site. You may also purchase prints or merchandise directly from the website with the “Buy Photo” button.

Or scan the QR Code with your smartphone or tablet camera to access the website.

Cadets Experience the Magic of Ireland

By Marianne Hause, VMI Communications & Marketing

Cadets ascend Mount Brandon, towering above Ireland’s Atlantic coastline.—Photos

courtesy Lt. Col. Stephanie Hodde, Ph.D.

“Céad míle fáilte,” which is Gaelic for “a hundred thousand welcomes,” captures the spirit of the warm hospitality 11 VMI cadets and their two professors recently experienced while on an educational journey in Dingle, Ireland.

Through the Office of Global Education, Col. Wade Bell, Ph.D., professor and former Department of Biology head, developed a 3-week summer program for cadets of all majors to travel to Ireland and take two three-credit courses. This year’s courses were Epidemics in Society, taught by Bell, and Voices from Ireland—Artistic Responses to Social and Political Issues, taught by Lt. Col. Stephanie Hodde, Ph.D., Department of English, Rhetoric and Humanistic Studies associate professor.

Bell framed his biology course around Ireland’s Great Famine from 1845–52, so Hodde chose to frame her class around the same approximate era, known as the Irish literary renaissance. “I started with poets William Butler Yeats and Patrick Kavanagh and taught all the way to contemporary playwrights J.M. Synge and Brian Friel,” said Hodde. “Our particular focus was the peasant population and their heritage, history, their many struggles, their colonial role with Britain, their resilience, and their attachment to the land. The Gaelic language, which was a big part of that renaissance, allowed the Irish to resist Britain’s insistence that

English be the official language, and Gaelic continues to be a primary language in that area of Ireland. There are two particular sets of islands off the southwestern coast that herald writers who preserve the Gaelic language and culture: The Blaskets and the Aran Islands. We visited those islands and studied the writers that came from them.”

While in Dingle, the group stayed at the Díseart, formerly a convent of the Presentation Sisters, which hosts students from several colleges who are interested in studying some aspect of Celtic culture during the summer. Hodde required the cadets to keep a reflective daily journal during the program. “A big part of the cultural experience was for the cadets to immerse themselves in the daily life of Irish people and to record their thoughts and encounters with other voices. Dingle is an incredibly friendly community and relatively small. The cadets enjoyed conversing with the locals about what it means to be an American and shared common life experiences,” said Hodde.

Thomas Dines ’27, an English major, stated that the trip far exceeded his expectations. “The unique balance of real-world experience and classroom discussion was more conducive to learning than standard education models,” he stated. “The interactions I had with the local people made this trip much more immersive and meaningful than it would have been otherwise. Frequently going out and visiting new

locations helped me better understand the Irish culture and the significance of studying it within a historical context.”

McKenna Shrout ’25, an international studies major, agreed with Dines. “Studying abroad in Ireland has been inspiring to me and has given me the opportunity to connect with diverse cultures,” she said. “Being an ‘easier’ country to visit, there was still enough of a difference in culture where we could be immersed in the daily lives of the natives. Touring the Blasket Islands and Inis Oírr was delightful, and I could have explored all day if given the chance. I enjoyed seeing the breathtaking views such as the Cliffs of Moher and the Burren—both are sights that I would have never seen if I had not participated in this program.”

Hodde stated that though she had traveled to Ireland on a personal vacation before, this was her first experience teaching abroad with VMI. “The English department has a program in England, but this has just been a really nice way for us to collaborate with other departments. For me, being able to experience Ireland with the cadets on a daily basis was my favorite part of the trip. Whether we were hiking Mount Brandon, the highest point on the peninsula, or visiting a local famine graveyard, or listening to a world-renowned accordion player, we learned together the unique and rich cultural traditions. It’s such a magical place!”

VMI cadets pose for a photo overlooking Dingle Bay, Ireland, during their study abroad program.

Cadets kayak in Dingle Bay.

Athletics

VMI Baseball

Smoot ’19

VMI baseball announced the addition of two assistant coaches ahead of the 2025 season. The Keydets are hiring two accredited baseball alumni to the coaching staff, Ryan Smoot ’19 and Trey Morgan ’23.

Smoot, assistant coach/recruiting coordinator, returns to his alma mater after spending two seasons at Winthrop University, serving as the assistant coach and working specifically with hitters and catchers. He helped the Eagles to a top-three finish in both the Big South regular season and conference tournament.

In 2024, the Eagles’ offense saw significant improvements in power despite fielding one of the youngest lineups in the country. Overall, Winthrop hitters saw increases in home runs (second most in the BBCOR era), doubles, and slugging percentage, and set a school record for hit-by-pitches (86).

Before Winthrop, Smoot spent 2-and-a-half years at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina, working with the Mountaineers’ catchers and assisting with hitters and base runners. While at App State, Mountaineer catchers consistently performed at the top of the Sun Belt Conference in all defensive statistics (passed balls per game, wild pitches per game, caught stealing percentage, and fielding percentage). Smoot was also a part of App State’s best Sun Belt Conference record in school history in 2021, and the

Morgan ’23 and Adds Assistant Coaches

best two finishes in school history at the conference tournament in 2021 and 2022.

While in Boone, Smoot managed the Boone Bigfoots, currently in the Coastal Plains League. In the first two seasons in the organization’s history, Smoot compiled a 54-17 record and won the league championship in 2021.

Before App State, Smoot spent one season at George Washington University in 2020. While at GW, Smoot worked with Colonials’ catchers and assisted with hitters, including outfielder Cade Fergus, who was drafted in the 13th round of the 2022 MLB draft by the Philadelphia Phillies.

Smoot is a 2019 graduate of VMI, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business. Smoot was a 4-year letter-winner, starting over 50 games behind the plate his senior season and leading the Southern Conference in on-base percentage. He is a native of Strasburg, Virginia, and the son of Jeff Smoot, who was a longtime high school baseball coach at Strasburg High School and won over 500 games from 1982–2016.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to return to the Institute and join the VMI baseball program,” says Smoot. “I thank Coach Roberts for this opportunity, and I am excited to get to work with our staff and cadet-athletes.”

Morgan, volunteer assistant coach, returns to the VMI dugout in a volunteer role, fresh from

playing his final season at VMI. In his 5-year career, Morgan was a dual-threat player for the Keydets, playing in the outfield and making several appearances on the bump.

By the end of his VMI stint, Morgan left his mark as a Keydet by setting the record for most career games played with 214 and ranking second in career at-bats with 773. He holds the record for the longest on-base streak with 42 and is fourth all-time in total bases (410), stolen bases (63), and hits (245). Morgan also stands fifth in runs scored (160), sixth in walks (109), ninth in fielding percentage (.984), and ninth in triples (7).

Morgan was named Preseason All-SoCon First-Team Outfielder and was voted to the All-Conference Second-Team as an outfielder after posting a .327 batting average and 6.01 ERA in 2024. He also earned All-SoCon Second-Team accolades in 2023 and was also an All-SoCon Freshman in 2021.

Outside of VMI, Morgan has played several summer seasons under his father, Hank Morgan ’99, a former VMI baseball player, for the Peninsula Pilots of the Coastal Plain League. Hank is the CPL’s all-time winningest manager. Henry Morgan, Trey’s grandfather and Hank’s father, is the owner of the team. In 2024, Trey was named to the CPL Select Team to face the USA Baseball Collegiate National Team Summer League Tour roster in Cary, North Carolina.

Four Keydets Named CRCA Scholastic

let ’27, Zachary Mauriello ’27, and Darian Tweedell ’27 all earning the honor.

Each of the four was a key member of the VMI rifle program and posted a GPA of 3.2 or better during the academic year.

After a successful season, Phillips would go on to represent VMI as she competed in the Junior Olympic Rifle Championship back in April. Phillips finished the season strong with a personal-best aggregate of 1148 at the

Like Phillips, Mauriello represented VMI

ing 38th in the air rifle at the prestigious event. Mauriello would also compete in the smallbore at the JORC in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Guillet debuted in October 2023 as VMI took down The Citadel and also competed in VMI’s win over Wofford and John Jay. Tweedell, meanwhile, competed in six competitions her rookie year, posting her best aggregate of 1106 at the SoCon Championship.

VMI Recognized on SoCon Academic Honors Lists

The Southern Conference released its Academic Honor Roll and All-Conference lists for the 2023–24 academic year June 27, 2024. Between the 10 member institutions and the nine affiliate members, 2,473 student-athletes earned Academic Honor Roll honors, and 615 spots were filled on the Spring Academic All-SoCon Team.

VMI recorded 145 cadet-athletes on the SoCon Honor Roll, while 20 were named Academic All-Conference for the spring season. Of the Keydets who landed on the honor roll, 36 were given the Commissioner’s Medal, 10 of whom had a perfect 4.0 GPA through the end of the spring semester.

The Academic Honor Roll consists of student-athletes who participated in conference-sponsored varsity sports, posted a 3.0 GPA or higher for the academic year, were eligible the entire academic year, and were members of the final squad lists. To earn the Commissioner’s Medal,

student-athletes must obtain a 3.8 GPA or higher during the academic year.

Eligible student-athletes for the academic all-conference team must carry at least a 3.3 cumulative GPA after the spring semester and are required to compete in at least one-half of their teams’ competitions during the recently concluded campaign. In addition, the student-athletes must have completed at least three semesters at their institutions, making true freshmen and first-year transfers ineligible for inclusion.

The sports of men’s and women’s basketball, men’s and women’s indoor track and field, rifle, wrestling, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s outdoor track and field, men’s and women’s tennis, baseball, and softball are represented on the Spring Academic All-SoCon team while the honor roll includes all 20 sports sponsored by the SoCon in 2023–24.

2024-25 Basketball Schedule Released

The 2024–25 VMI basketball schedule is complete following the Southern Conference releasing its league slate Aug. 6, 2024. The Keydets open conference play at ETSU New Year’s Day in Johnson City, Tennessee, before turning around to host Mercer Saturday, Jan. 4, 2025, at Cameron Hall. After a long road trip to play at Samford and Chattanooga the weekend of Jan. 9–11, the Keydets will host Western Carolina Wednesday, Jan. 15. VMI then hits the road to play at rival The Citadel Saturday, Jan. 18, in Charleston, South Carolina. The Keydets close out the month of January hosting Furman and UNCG the week of Jan. 22–25 before traveling to Wofford Jan. 29 and Western Carolina Feb. 1. VMI takes on ETSU and The Citadel at home to open the month of February before road contests at UNCG and Mercer the following week. Wofford will come to Lexington Wednesday, Feb. 19, before the Keydets travel to Greenville, South Carolina, to play at Furman Saturday, Feb. 22. The Keydets close the regular season with two home games against Samford and Chattanooga the week of Feb. 27–March 1. Information regarding the 2025 Southern Conference Men’s Basketball Tournament in Asheville, North Carolina, will be provided at a later date.

Nov. 4 (Monday)

Nov. 9 (Saturday)

Nov. 12 (Tuesday)

Nov. 15 (Friday)

Nov. 16 (Saturday)

Nov. 18 (Monday)

Nov. 22 (Friday)

Nov. 26 (Tuesday)

Nov. 29 (Friday)

Dec. 3 (Tuesday)

Dec. 7 (Saturday)

Dec. 12 (Thursday)

Dec. 21 (Saturday)

Jan. 1 (Wednesday)

Jan. 4 (Saturday)

Jan. 9 (Thursday)

Jan. 11 (Saturday)

Jan. 15 (Wednesday)

Jan. 18 (Saturday)

Jan. 22 (Wednesday)

Jan. 25 (Saturday)

Jan. 29 (Wednesday)

Feb. 1 (Saturday)

Feb. 5 (Wednesday)

Feb. 8 (Saturday)

Feb. 12 (Wednesday)

Feb. 15 (Saturday)

Feb. 19 (Wednesday)

Feb. 22 (Saturday)

Feb. 27 (Thursday)

March 1 (Saturday)

March 7-11

Washington College

Bellarmine

Christendom

Tennessee Tech

Charleston Southern

Pittsburgh

Davidson

Loyola

George Washington

VA Unv. of Lynchburg

Queens (N.C.)

Regent Richmond

ETSU* Mercer* Samford* Chattanooga* Western Carolina* The Citadel* Furman* UNCG* Wofford* Western Carolina* ETSU* The Citadel* UNCG* Mercer* Wofford* Furman* Samford* Chattanooga*

Tournament*

Lexington, VA

Louisville, KY

Lexington, VA

White Sulphur Springs, WV

White Sulphur Springs, WV

Pittsburgh, PA

Davidson, NC

Baltimore, MD

Washington, D.C.

Lexington, VA

Lexington, VA

Lexington, VA

Richmond, VA

* Denotes conference game

Johnson City, TN

Lexington, VA

Birmingham, AL

Chattanooga, TN

Lexington, VA

Charleston, SC

Lexington, VA

Lexington, VA

Spartanburg, SC

Cullowhee, NC

Lexington, VA

Lexington, VA

Greensboro, NC

Macon, GA

Lexington, VA

Greenville, SC

Lexington, VA

Lexington, VA

Asheville, NC

Keydet Club Leadership Outing 2024

By Mattie Montgomery, Assistant Editor

On June 7, 2024, the Keydet Club welcomed more than 150 VMI alumni and friends to the 2024 Jeffrey Morgan ’80 Leadership Outing in recognition of the contributions of VMI athletics’ exceptional supporters.

Those in attendance enjoyed a beautiful day of golf at the Lexington Golf & Country Club and sporting clays at Quail Ridge Sporting Club, followed by an evening at Moody Hall for dinner and fellowship. Jamaal Walton ’07, VMI’s new director of intercollegiate athletics, welcomed everyone and thanked all of the generous supporters of the Keydet Club for their impact on VMI athletics. Guests also had the chance to meet with other coaches and leadership, including Danny Rocco, head football coach.

Each year, the annual leadership outing connects these VMI alumni and friends who spend a day filled with camaraderie and the VMI spirit. “The Jeff Morgan ’80 Leadership Outing unites a group of individuals who share a passion for and dedication to VMI athletics,” said Andrew Deal ’12, Keydet Club chief operating officer and Alumni Agencies chief development officer. “The event is always a great opportunity to share the exciting things happening among our cadet-athletes and coaches and to showcase supporters’ impact on these programs. Our team takes great pride in recognizing and thanking our generous supporters.”

Scan the QR Code below with your smartphone or tablet camera to view all of the images from this event.

WINS ’85 VISITS TAIWAN

By Mattie Montgomery, Assistant Editor

VMI and Taiwan have always been close, thanks to the Institute’s longstanding relationship with the country’s military academies and the Taiwan Chapter of the Alumni Association.

Traveling June 13–17, 2024, Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, joined representatives from the University of North Georgia, the Paraguayan Military Academy, and the Guatemalan Military Academy as guests for the Republic of China Military Academy Centennial Anniversary parade and celebration in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Hosting the celebration on behalf of ROCMA was Army Maj. Gen. “Race” Chien-Feng Yu ’92, ROCMA superintendent. The academy is one of three Taiwanese military academies providing cadets the opportunity to attend VMI as part of a longstanding partnership. Before departing Taiwan, Wins attended a Taiwan Chapter alumni event hosted by Maj. Gen. Tsai-Tzu Ho ’92, chapter president, in Taipei City, Taiwan, June 17. At the event, Wins had the opportunity to engage with alumni and provide an update on the Institute.

1) Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, attends a dinner hosted by Maj. Gen. Tsai-Tzu Ho ’92, Tawain Chapter president, in Taipei City, Taiwan, June 17. The dinner served as a great opportunity to engage with alumni and provide an update on the Institute.

2) Ching-Pu Chen ’85, former Taiwan Chapter president, presents Wins with a gift to the Institute on behalf of the VMI Alumni Association Taiwan Chapter in Taipei City, Taiwan, June 17.

3) Lt. Gen. Liu Feng-Yu, vice chief of the Taiwanese Air Force Headquarters, presents Wins with a gift commemorating the outstanding relationship between VMI and the Taiwanese service academies.

4) Joining Wins after the ROCMA Centennial Anniversary parade and celebration in Kaohsiung June 16 are (from left) Lt. Col. Ren Ji Jhan; Lt. Chi-Hsien Li ’24; Maj. Pin-Fen Chen ’13; Dr. Michael Shannon, University of North Georgia president; and Mrs. Jessica Shannon.

5) Wins joins (from left) Maj. Chih-Yuan Chen ’14, Lt. Col. HungXin Li ’11, Maj. Pin-Fen Chen ’13, and Lt. Chi-Hsien Li ’24 after the ROCMA Centennial Anniversary parade and celebration June 16 in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.

6) Wins presents a gift to Maj. Gen. “Race” Chien-Feng Yu ’92, ROCMA superintendent.

Arkansas Chapter

New Market Dinner

Arkansas Chapter members Veronica and Ted Goodloe ’65, Tish and Jim Dittrich ’76, Bob and Mary Gail Vidrick ’78, and Denise and Scott Falls ’81 gather for a New Market remembrance dinner at Capers Restaurant in Little Rock, Arkansas, May 11, 2024.

Central North Carolina –Raleigh Chapter May Senior Breakfast

Gathering for the Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter senior breakfast May 21, 2024, are (seated, from left) Sam Hening, Rick Hening ’75, Paul Johnston ’61, Roger Rosenfield ’47, Barton Pasco ’77, Bill Murchison ’70, (standing) Ian Foley ’05, John Ehrenberger ’84, Larry Wilson ’62, Betsy Wilson, Parky Parkman ’66, Bill Gibson ’65, Alan Tashima ’71, Pete Shelley ’74, Will Bynum ’77, and Don Brown ’71.

Central North Carolina

– Raleigh Chapter Memorial Day Gathering

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter members gathering for Memorial Day at Backyard Bistro in Raleigh, North Carolina, May 25, 2024, are (from left) Peyton Hale, Rex Wiggins ’78, Alan Tashima ’71, Mary Fran Parkman, Dorris Gibson, Taylor Holt ’92, Rick Hening ’75, Charlotte Spencer, Bill Gibson ’65, Parky Parkman ’66, Paul Johnston ’61, Allyson Hale, and Luke Hale ’00.

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter June Senior Breakfast

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter members enjoying the monthly senior breakfast June 18, 2024, are (seated, from left) Roger Rosenfield ’47, Harry Seipp ’78, Rick Hening ’75, Bill Murchison ’70, (standing) Don Brown ’71, Larry Wilson ’62, Parky Parkman ’66, Bill Gibson ’65, Paul Johnston ’61, Alan Tashima ’71, and Pete Shelley ’74.

Central North Carolina –Raleigh Chapter July Senior Breakfast

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter members (center, from left) Sam Hening, Rick Hening ’75, Larry Wilson ’62, Parky Parkman ’66, Alan Tashima ’71, Ian Foley ’05, Paul Johnston ’61, Drew Turner ’72, Roger Rosenfield ’47, Pete Shelley ’74, Barton Pasco ’77, and Bill Gibson ’65 gather for a senior breakfast at Brigs Great Beginnings Restaurant in Raleigh, North Carolina, July 16, 2024.

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Summer Party

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter members meeting for a summer party at the Flying Saucer Draught Emporium in Raleigh, North Carolina, June 22, 2024, are (from left) Rick Hening ’75, Rex Wiggins ’78, Allyson Hale, Charlotte Spencer, Luke Hale ’00, Bill Gibson ’65, and John Gentry ’89.

Hawaii Chapter Rat Send-Off

Attending the Hawaii Chapter rat send-off at the Mid-Pacific Country Club in Lanikai, Hawaii, June 29, 2024, are (from left) Karen Harris; Gary Rose ’91; Jade Smith; Cadet Ethan Smith ’25; Charlene Romsland; Cadet Gunnar Romsland ’26; Tug Romsland, incoming cadet; Derek Romsland; Angela Keel; Paul Keel ’80; Jess Powers; Gordon Powers ’02; and Josh Strickler ’95.

Middle

Tennessee – Nashville Chapter New Market Dinner

Middle Tennessee – Nashville Chapter members Dave Lawrence ’70, John C. McLemore ’70, Matt Jablonka ’64, Dave Pitts ’88, Tom Sebrell ’64, John Manley ’64, and David Miller ’70 attend a New Market Day dinner at Mere Bulles restaurant in Brentwood, Tennessee, May 14, 2024.

Pacific Northwest Chapter

Hosts Superintendent

Thirty-seven attendees ranging from the Classes of 1960–2023 attended the Pacific Northwest Chapter gathering with Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, at Narrows Brewing in Tacoma, Washington, June 9, 2024.

Pikes Peak Chapter New Market Dinner

Pikes Peak Chapter members attend a New Market Day dinner at Hacienda Colorado in Colorado Springs, Colorado, May 15, 2024. Pictured are (from left) Nancy Fricke; Bob Fricke ’78; Malcolm Grimes ’79; Chantal Stark ’15; Ben Zupancic, husband of Stark; Gwendolyn Grimes, wife of Grimes; David Rahl ’06; and Steve Turley ’77.

Rocky Mountain Chapter New Market Dinner

Attending the Rocky Mountain Chapter New Market Day dinner at Hacienda Colorado in Westminster, Colorado, May 15, 2024, are (from left) Roy Daniels ’14, Warren Weiss ’87, Dean Kratzenberg ’87, Kevin Barker ’87, Jay Donato ’97, and Barry Walker ’65.

Rockbridge Chapter Rat Send-Off

More than 50 attendees, including seven incoming cadets, joined the Rockbridge Chapter for a rat send-off at the Abigail Inn July 28, 2024. Pictured are incoming cadets (from left) Nathan Phillips, Iuru Amaral, Caiden Cavazos, Ryan Maxwell, Tucker Towle, Elijah Nalesnik, and Sofia Fleming.

Valley Chapter

New Market Dinner

Valley Chapter members meet for a New Market dinner and a talk by Jonathan Noyalas, McCormick Institute of the Civil War director and Shenandoah University professor of Civil War era history, at the Virginia Museum of the Civil War at the New Market Battlefield May 4, 2024.

Williamsburg Chapter Senior Lunch

Williamsburg Chapter members gather for a senior luncheon with Ed Johnson ’79, Alumni Association chief operating officer, at Center Street Grill in Williamsburg, Virginia, June 18, 2024. During the luncheon, Johnson presents a formal citation to Gray Wooten ’87, who recently retired from leading the Tabb High School ROTC unit, a program Wooten began that now has more than 100 students.

Williamsburg Chapter New Market Dinner

Williamsburg Chapter members gathering for a breakfast honoring New Market Day and Class of 2024 graduates at Blue Talon Bistro in Williamsburg, Virginia, May 17, 2024, are (front row, from left) Louis Petrillo ’93, Michael Thompson ’75, John Kokolis ’96, (back row) Peter Kokolis ’96, Ayen Torchik ’93, Paul Karafa ’83, Mason Hurt ’16, Alex Samms ’03, Matt Jones ’06, and Don Calder ’88.

Wilmington Chapter Old Corps Breakfast

Attending the Wilmington Chapter Old Corps breakfast at the Boathouse Restaurant in Wilmington, North Carolina, May 14, 2024, are Dee Hartman ’66, Fred Ayers ’61, John Gangemi ’61, Jim Phlegar ’67, Tom Tolbert ’66, Henry Brown

VMI Board of Visitors Seeks Nominations

The VMI Board of Visitors has created a committee to select the next recipient of the Jonathan Myrick Daniels ’61 Humanitarian Award. The award emphasizes the virtue of humanitarian public service and recognizes individuals who have made significant personal sacrifices to protect or improve the lives of others. The award affords cadets a continuing reminder that it is possible to embody and display heroic qualities of honor, loyalty, and devotion at any age and in any circumstances.

The committee is currently accepting nominations for possible award recipients. Please send nominations to BOVSecretary@vmi.edu no later than Dec. 15, 2024.

Nominations should include the name of the individual, contact information (if available), and a short summary of why you think the individual meets the award qualifications above. The award will be presented at the discretion of the VMI Board of Visitors, and as a condition of the award, the nominee must be willing to come to VMI to accept the award. Any questions may be directed to the BOV secretary at the email above.

’60, Tony Pileggi ’78, George Myers ’79, Harley Myler ’75, Arnie Leonard ’74, and F. Spruill Thompson ’84.

Fiscal Year 2024 Fundraising Results Celebrate Loyalty, Support for VMI

By Mary Price, Development Writer

Members of the VMI family signaled their continued and strong support for VMI’s mission in Fiscal Year 2024, contributing a total of $20,460,630 in support of the Institute and the Corps of Cadets. Of that amount, approximately $12.9 million came in the form of cash gifts, $5.3 million were new pledges, and $7.2 million were new commitments from estate and planned giving.

This is no small achievement. The healthy mix of current and future commitments will impact the VMI experience and the Corps of Cadets in a significant way. Of course, we want to first acknowledge the number of donors who step forward to support VMI. This year, both the Keydet Club and the Foundation experienced an increase in donors.

Among several highlights from the recently concluded FY24 were $10.6 million in reunion giving, a figure that includes both present-year and pledged future gifts. Donor generosity was also showcased by an excellent response in two annual online “day of giving” campaigns: Compete to Win, the Keydet Club’s fundraising effort for NCAA athletics, and the VMI Foundation’s Day of Giving for all other VMI fundraising, such as academic and merit scholarships, faculty salaries, and cadet clubs and activities, to name a few.

The Day of Giving, held Feb. 29, leap day, was billed as “an extra day for VMI” and attracted 1,145 donors, raising $272,646.34 for the benefit of the Corps of Cadets. By 11 a.m. on the Day of Giving, the VMI donor base exceeded the day’s goal of 500 donors and expectations for funds raised. Compete to Win, the Keydet Club’s three-day initiative to raise funds for VMI’s NCAA Division I athletics program, brought in $308,249.34. It was the Keydet Club’s most successful crowdfunding campaign yet, with 618 individuals making gifts in support of cadetathletes.

The Call to Duty Scholarships, deemed a gamechanger for VMI by the Office of Admissions, provide room and board funding for cadets already receiving federal ROTC scholarships— and often make the critical difference in a cadet’s decision to attend VMI. In admissions interviews, one of the top reasons appointed

prospective cadets hesitate to secure a seat at matriculation is the very real issue of family finances. The opportunity for VMI Alumni Agencies donors to make up the difference of room and board for all four years for very wellqualified cadets is immeasurable in the outcomes of our graduates. In FY24, the VMI Foundation provided $874,000 toward this key recruitment and retention tool, which then supported more than 80 cadets in the 2023–24 academic year.

Class pride and unity have always been a driving force in fundraising success at VMI. The VMI FY24 graduate participation rate was 21%, with 47 VMI classes showing a participation rate higher than 21% and 17 classes boasting 40% participation or more.

For FY24, our endowment fund has demonstrated remarkable growth, reflecting the robust investment strategies and meticulous fiduciary attention applied throughout the year. The fund’s impressive performance, valued at $749,086,848 as of June 30—representing net market growth of more than $83 million—is a testament to the strategic vision and diligent efforts of the management team, who have consistently focused on both maximizing returns and preserving capital. Ultimately, everything we do is focused on the current and future Corps of Cadets. We could not celebrate this success without the full cohort of those who choose to demonstrate their love for the Institute through giving of their resources. It is truly extraordinary.

Keydet Club Moves to Support Athletic Operations

By Mary Price, Development Writer

From lacrosse sticks to football helmets to travel expenses for 50plus players and coaches, there’s no aspect of competing in NCAA Division I athletics that’s inexpensive. That’s why the VMI Keydet Club has set a goal moving forward: Increase support for athletic operations.

“We’re enhancing our fundraising model,” said Andrew C. Deal ’12, Keydet Club chief operating officer and Alumni Agencies chief development officer. He explained that supporting NCAA athletics typically involves three “buckets” of funds, all critical to success: Scholarships, athletic operations, and capital improvements for facilities.

Moving forward, Deal explained, the Keydet Club will build on the success of Compete to Win, its annual crowdfunding campaign for athletic operations, to increase support in this key area while continuing to emphasize scholarships and capital projects.

Like Compete to Win, which raised $308,249.34 in Fiscal Year 2024 and attracted more than 600 supporters, the new fundraising model will include an unrestricted category that can be allocated to the areas of greatest need, as well as team-specific athletic operations funds. Going forward, the Keydet Club will be working with VMI athletics

to create a comprehensive vision for each program to identify areas of need and top priorities.

A key goal is to bring VMI’s athletic operations budget in line with that of its Southern Conference peers. Historically, VMI’s budget for athletic operations has been approximately $3 million below the Southern Conference average.

“The resources raised will be used to make enhancements to our programs, not to supplement the athletic budget,” said Deal. “We want to make sure we’re allocating our gifts in a way that will help us move forward across the board, collectively, across scholarships, operations, and capital improvements. The ultimate goal is to provide our cadet-athletes with a positive experience, and one that enables them to be competitive among our peers.”

Jamaal Walton ’07, newly arrived VMI director of intercollegiate athletics, echoed Deal’s commitment to strengthening support for athletic operations. “The support of the Keydet Club has been tremendous, and the enhancement of the fundraising model to support athletic operations is a game changer,” he said. “The enhancement allows our cadet-athletes to be in the best position to compete to win across the board.”

New Center for Advancement

ACADEMICS. ENGAGEMENT. PHILANTHROPY.

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

In early 2028, VMI’s new center for advancement is tentatively scheduled to open its doors to the VMI family and will include an alumni center. Located between the corner of VMI Parade and Letcher Avenue and Letcher Avenue and Maiden Lane, it will be a three-level, 50,000-square-foot facility serving the entire Institute family and providing top-flight facilities for a wide variety of events.

The idea for the new building was hatched several years ago, as it became evident that a growing alumni base and the increasing demands to support on-post activities meant the current infrastructure needed a major upgrade. The Agencies and VMI considered various options, including a renovation of Moody Hall, but none of them offered a workable solution. The decision, therefore, was made to replace the current structures with a single structure to support the important missions of both the Institute and the VMI Alumni Agencies: Academics, engagement, and philanthropy.

The “footprint” of the building requires the demolition of Moody Hall and the two other buildings between Maiden Lane and VMI Parade—the Cabell House, currently used by the athletic director, and Neikirk Hall, which has housed the VMI Alumni Agencies, VMI Foundation, and VMI Keydet Club offices since the late 1990s.

While the disappearance of familiar buildings can be bittersweet, it has frequently happened on post. “One example of ‘lost’ VMI architecture would be the first purpose-built academic building at VMI—F.H. Smith Hall, which stood at the site of the current northwest wall of Old Barracks,” said Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System executive director. “Built in 1900, it was very convenient for cadet access for classes, but it obstructed the original Alexander J. Davis plan to complete the quadrangle of Old Barracks. With the completion of Smith-Shipp Hall (now known as Scott Shipp Hall) in 1918, F.H. Smith Hall was destined for the wrecking ball, which came about in 1924.”

Under the current schedule, which is subject to change, the Agencies’ staff members and equipment will move out next summer. Construction on the new facility will begin in winter 2025 and take approximately 2 years to complete. After VMI secures the necessary occupancy permit, those working in the new facility will begin to move into their offices. If all goes well, the process will be completed in spring 2028 at a projected cost of approximately $68 million.

The new building will be highly capable—and multipurpose. Brig. Gen. Dallas Clark ’99, deputy superintendent for finance and support, who is responsible for the project’s planning and execution, said, “The center will be particularly special, as it is meant to serve the entire VMI family. Cadets and faculty will use it for classrooms and symposia, and the VMI Alumni Agencies will utilize it to host events, reunions, chapter meetings, scholarship banquets, and board meetings. The Institute will use it for meetings, VIP visits, and conferences, and the community will have opportunities to host milestone events. Every aspect of the VMI experience will be positively affected by this building, and everyone in the VMI family will benefit from it.”

Besides the space necessary for the VMI Alumni Agencies’ operations, it will have the facilities to host social functions, including a kitchen, two bar areas, an executive dining and conference room,

and an 8,927-square-foot ballroom/conference room. The design also includes activities rooms, classrooms, additional conference rooms, and training and seminar rooms, as well as a guest room for visiting VIPs.

Among Moody Hall’s most popular features are two verandas—one on the top level and one on the main level that opens onto a terrace— providing views of the Parade Ground, Academic Row, and Officers Row. Those who have enjoyed those views will be glad to know the new building will have them, as well. “Both verandas will offer a panoramic view of post, which will provide an amazing background for a full range of memorable events to include reunions, special dinners, casual functions, and parade watching,” said David L. Prasnicki, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer.

The architecture of the new building will delight those who appreciate the Institute’s distinct style, according to Gibson. “As with all new construction at VMI, a great effort has been made in the design of the [new building] to use the Gothic Revival style introduced here by Alexander Davis in 1850,” he said. “The style’s cohesiveness reflects the focus and singleness of purpose of the Institute and is one of its most striking features. Certain signature elements from Moody Hall— such as the fireplace in the library—will find a new home in the center. In addition, elements of the exterior will be very familiar. We’ve done our best to replicate Moody Hall’s Parade Ground façade. The new building also echoes elements, for example, the arches and parapet crenulation, of the barracks and other Parade Ground structures.”

One eye-catching feature of the new building won’t be visible from the street. Part of the construction process will bring the “hill” upon which the three current buildings stand level with the ground between

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Marshall Hall and Smith Hall and the Marshall Foundation. Doors will open upon a large open terrace overlooking this space. When completed, the future Peay Hall will be opposite this side of the new multipurpose facility, making both buildings the “bookends” of the area.

A construction project of this size and scope will offer many opportunities for the recognition of people and classes. For example, classes could commemorate a brother rat’s service to the class or the Institute by naming a conference room in their honor, or one class could gain imperishable glory by sponsoring one of the bar areas. The VMI Alumni Agencies will announce recognition opportunities later.

“This project has been exciting from the very beginning,” said Prasnicki. “It has provided us the chance to work closely with the Institute to develop a facility that will allow us to improve our already strong relationship and work even more efficiently together to advance

VMI’s extraordinary educational mission.

“The motto of the VMI Alumni Agencies is ‘excellence in service,’ and we live up to it every day, providing superb service to our alumni and friends and the Institute. We are eager to get into this beautiful new building, help our Institute partners bring it to life, and provide the very best service to the VMI family.”

As befits a building that has served the VMI family so well for more than 55 years and hosted innumerable events, such as the first Institute Society Dinner in 1974 and many reunion-related activities, Moody Hall will get a proper send-off. “It has been used by several generations of alumni who cherish countless memories of good times there,” said Matthew R. Hemenez ’90, VMI Alumni Association president and VMI Alumni Agencies Board chairman. “So, we plan to host events over the next several months that will allow our alumni to bid it a fond farewell.”

1944

Jonathan Safrit ’10

The Class of 1944 would like to wish the VMI community a happy Thanksgiving and merry Christmas. While there are not many left from this time, their spirit remains strong.

As you’re reading these notes, VMI’s most senior alumnus, Bob Smothers, is preparing to celebrate his 102nd birthday in December. I look forward to finding out how he marked the occasion. I’m sure there will be a fun time to be had.

During this notes period, Bob sent me a memoir written by his B-17 pilot from World War II.I’ve thoroughly enjoyed getting to know his crew. Throughout the book, Bob’s pilot continually describes how good Bob was as his navigator—placing them on targets time after time with great accuracy whether in training or the real thing. Bob was so good that when his pilot was to begin training to transition to B-29s, he specifically sought Bob out to be his navigator again. While there are plenty of harrowing stories in those pages, I’d like to share a more lighthearted event that took place at the war’s end. Bob and his crew were tasked with returning some displaced French citizens back to France from Austria. Every inch of their plane was utilized for the special cargo, including Bob’s area of operation in the nose compartment. Bob’s pilot wrote that it was an uneventful flight after takeoff except for when Bob told passengers that they had crossed over into France. Everyone around him wanted to give him a kiss of thanks, and “he didn’t take well to that. He lit up a cigar in self-defense.” I can’t imagine how it must have felt for those people to be back home after such an ordeal, and I know they were extremely grateful to Bob and his crew for their efforts. For anyone interested in the stories of airmen from World War II, I would highly recommend it. It is called “A Memoir: Pilot Duty WWII and Beyond” by Norbert Ostrye. It is currently out of publication, so if anyone reading this should happen to find a copy, please let me know. Bob would like a second copy, and I’d enjoy having one of my own.

As always, I remain available to the friends and family of 1944 and always enjoy hearing from you all. On behalf of the Class of 1944, I wish you all the best going into the new year.

Class Notes

1946

David M. Hudock ’97

Friends, Family, and Members of the Class of 1946,

Greetings. I hope this finds each of you well as the leaves begin to turn and, unbelievably, we are about to embark upon another holiday season.

Please accept my sincerest apologies for not having submitted notes in the August issue of the Review. I will endeavor not to miss future issues!

In this edition of class notes, it is my sad duty to report the recent passing of a member of the Class of 1946.

In August 2023, Shirley Coleman notified the VMI Alumni Agencies her husband, George W. Coleman, died of cardiac arrest while in hospice care Aug. 18, 2023. George was 98. Shirley and I corresponded briefly over the past year, and she shared with me some wonderful details about George’s life.

George was born March 15, 1925, in Baytown, Texas, and matriculated to the Institute in 1942 from Houston, where he graduated from Lamar High School. He liked to remind people throughout his life that the life expectancy when he was born—before the era of antibiotics—was only 47 years. Shirley is very happy that he ended up more than doubling that number!

George was admitted to VMI at age 17, just as World War II was heating up, and ultimately enlisted in the Navy’s V-12 College Training Program, through which he attended the University of Virginia with a number of his brother rats. He eventually earned a BA in civil engineering from UVA before being ordered to Midshipmen’s School in Rhode Island, where he earned certification as a hard-hat deep sea diver. Orders to the Pacific were pending for George when the war ended in 1945.

He left VMI in 1946 and earned an MA in civil engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology the following year. Following MIT, George took a job with Standard Oil in San Francisco, California. His civilian work was cut short, however, when in 1951, the Navy called him back to duty as the Korean “situation” grew in intensity. George’s platoon was sent to Nevada in support of atom bomb testing.

Shirley said he once described “lying in a trench [during a detonation] and seeing the bones of his hand through his closed eyelids” against the light of the explosion. Sadly, the radiation exposure during this period destroyed the function of his thyroid gland for the rest of his life.

In 1953, George left the Navy as a lieutenant commander and decided to give law school a try using the GI Bill. He graduated with a JD in 1956 and shortly thereafter married his first wife, Suzanne. They moved to Los Angeles together after the wedding, where he spent the rest of his notable career combining his skills as an attorney with his technical acumen to defend engineers and architects from lawsuits. He earned a stellar reputation in this capacity and was eventually considered to be at the top of this field in Los Angeles.

George and Suzanne had two sons, one born in 1961 and the second in 1963, before their marriage ended in divorce. Not long after, on a ski trip to Austria, George met Shirley. They later married and had a daughter together in 1979. The entire family loved skiing and hiking and subsequently spent many vacations at the family vacation condo in the Eastern Sierra Mountain town of Mammoth Lakes.

George worked until he was 82, at which point he finally retired because, as he said, “The judges are just too young!” He is survived by his wife, Shirley; his sons, Roger and Dave; his daughter, Heather; and four grandchildren. Throughout his life, he aspired to be helpful, and with his many skills, he accomplished this in numerous ways: In service to his country with the Navy, his family, friends, clients, and neighbors. His was a long life, well lived, and he will be missed.

I wish each of you the best over the coming holidays and remain gratefully yours in the bonds.

RVM,

Dave

1947

Jonathan Safrit ’10

As we are about to enter the holiday season, the Class of 1947 wishes the VMI community safe travels and a joyful Thanksgiving and merry Christmas.

My last notes served as an introduction of myself to the class as their new agent. At that time, the roster showed six surviving members, but unfortunately, I have learned that four of those members

have passed on, with two passing this year.

William Cavett Brown, of Georgetown, Texas, passed away Feb. 17, 2024. He was 97 years old. After attending VMI, Mr. Brown transferred to the U.S. Military Academy and graduated in 1949. He served in Korea and, after active service, stayed in the reserve for 25 years before retiring as a colonel. His obituary remembered him as a generous man with a quick wit who benefitted all those who were fortunate enough to know him.

Carl N. Cimino passed away June 15, 2024, at the age of 98. Unfortunately, I did not get the chance to know Carl, either. He served his country as a Marine in World War II and Korea. Reading his obituary, it is clear that he lived a great life and will be sorely missed by his friends and family. During this notes period, I had the opportunity to talk with the widow of Garvin Jones, Lucie, on a couple of occasions. Garvin passed away in September 2023, and Lucie very generously took the time to tell me about her beloved husband. Garvin’s family had deep ties to VMI. His father was Class of 1919, and his great-grandfather was a member of 1848! Garvin himself served as the captain and quarterback for the 1943 VMI football “rat team” (named such because there were no upperclassmen to make a team). His claim to fame during that time and a story he loved to tell the rest of his life was the time his team beat Clemson 127.Shortly after this storied season, he was called up to serve in World War II, and while he never finished his studies at VMI, he fondly remembered the Institute for the rest of his life.

Roger Rosenfield is doing well, and I’ve enjoyed getting to know him since taking on the role of class agent. Roger now lives in Raleigh and has been active in keeping in touch with other VMI alums in that area, especially through a monthly breakfast they have, which he always tries to attend. I’ve learned so much about VMI during those war years from Roger. He vividly described his journey from Jackson, Mississippi, to VMI, including sharing a cab from McCrum’s drugstore in Lexington with several other BRs on their way to matriculation. Coincidentally, not long after Roger told me that story, I was fishing the Maury River near barracks and found an old broken medicine bottle embossed with “McCrum Drug” and instantly thought of Roger making that drive. Every conversation we’ve had is equally entertaining as it is informative. I look forward to many more! There’s one member of 1947 I have not been able to contact as of yet. His name is Donald T. Doherty. If he or someone close to him reads this, please reach out to me. I would love to establish contact with him.

As always, I remain available to the friends and

family of 1947 and always enjoy hearing from you all. On behalf of the Class of 1947, I wish you all the best going into the new year.

1948B

Lisa Tracy

Greetings from Jacktown Road outside the Lexington metropolis at the foot of House Mountain! I was recently chatting by phone with a couple of you, and I mentioned that I’ve often wondered what it could have felt like to have your education completely disrupted by war—in the case of many of the “alphabet” class brother rats—before you’d even reached your 20th birthdays. Rod Kallgren and Al Loth both shared some thoughts about what that time was like, seen through the lens of the years since.

Rod Kallgren, speaking from his home in Dearborn, Michigan, laughed as he told me he has six sons, and none of them went to VMI. “They’ve all been there,” he said, but the military magic of the place did not persuade them to follow in dad’s footsteps. Perhaps they were remembering he’d been drafted as an enlisted man during World War II and sent to Fort Liberty (formerly Bragg), and that was only the beginning. Rod graduated with the Class of ’49B in 1949 with a degree in chemistry but was called up as an artillery officer when the Korean War started. He and his fiancée, he said, did the only logical thing; they eloped, and he was soon on a plane to the Pacific. They later found themselves stationed at Fort Bliss, and, he said, “I always kidded about that because we really hadn’t had much of a honeymoon.”

His civilian career later landed them in Michigan. “For the kids, it was a great place to grow up,” he said, and four of his sons still live in Michigan. Of the six, three are already retired, and he added, “I have 18 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren. Family is everything.”

The Detroit VMI Alumni Association chapter is about 15 minutes from his residence in Dearborn, and he said he especially enjoys getting the Alumni Review. As he was approaching his 97th birthday this past summer, he reflected that, at one point, his goal was to live to see the year 2000. “Now,” he said, “I’m aiming to live to be 100.”

Al, speaking from his home in Richmond, Virginia, recalled that starting their rat year in July

1944 was “pretty tough and also pretty sparse”— Army demands had already taken most of the Corps, and the incoming Class of ’48B numbered just around 150, rattling around up there on the fourth stoop, while there were significantly fewer upperclassmen to guide and harass them. “The 3rds were pretty tough on us, and we quickly learned what to expect and what you could get away with—not much!”

He had some interesting perspectives on the military during and after the end of the war, as the various branches scrambled to realign themselves. He’d graduated on time in 1948 with a reserve commission, only to learn 3 months later that the regular Army was requiring reserve officers with less than 6 months’ active duty to report and serve for an additional 21 months. But it was peacetime, and, he said, “a wild time,” as the military simultaneously downsized and called reservists up. He spent time at Fort Sill and subsequently found himself on duty at the Pentagon, where “I’m sure I was the only second lieutenant in the place.”

An outstanding memory from the years at VMI remains his being assigned as first captain to act as aide to Gen. George Marshall ’901 for a day as Marshall traveled to Richmond to address a joint meeting of the VMI Cadet Club there.

“It remains one of the most memorable days of my life,” he said. “Here I was, just a cadet, standing over in a corner, trying to stay out of the way of the dignitaries.” Time came for a photo of Marshall with the governor and a congressman, and, Al recalled, “Marshall said, “Wait a minute, I want my aide over here!” The result (see pg. 27 of the August issue of the Alumni Review) recorded then-cadet Albert L. Loth standing right next to the general who had never forgotten where he got his military start.

As a graduate of John Marshall High School in Richmond and—like many other brother rats of his era—a member of the JMHS cadet corps, Al mentioned that for many years, he attended an annual memorial gathering for JMHS cadets who had died in wars, including World Wars I and II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. At one commemoration, he told the story of his day escorting Gen. Marshall. “And I said that it taught me there are no little people in the world. We all have our roles to play.”

Today, he said, he would tell anyone considering attending VMI, “Learn everything you can before you go. VMI is not for everybody. But if you can get through that first year, you’ll never regret it.”

In conclusion, for this round, as your class agent, I’d just like to encourage our 1948B brother rats

Class Notes

and their families to send updates on where and how you all are finding life these days and any fond (or other!) memories of the place where so much began. Phone calls are welcome, and if you or family members are using those ubiquitous cell phones for digital photos: Are there children and grandchildren? Gatherings with family or friends? I’d love to have someone send them to me via text or email. Until next time, here’s to a happy Thanksgiving for all—and please stay in touch!

1949A

Jonathan Safrit ’10

With Thanksgiving and Christmas around the corner, the Class of 1949A wishes the VMI community all the best during this holiday season.

When I took the reins as class agent, there were three members on the roster, but since that time, I have confirmed we now only have one member potentially still with us, G. Harrison Whitten Jr. I say potentially because I have not heard from Mr. Whitten or his friends or family. If anyone reading these notes can provide an update, I would love to hear from them.

John N. Reints Jr. passed away April 9, 2024, at the age of 95. This, again, is someone I regret not having the opportunity to know and serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly this generation is leaving us. I encourage anyone reading this to take time to get to know someone from this generation before they’re gone. Ask questions, listen to their stories. You will not be disappointed.

As always, I remain available to the friends and family of 1949A and always enjoy hearing from you all. On behalf of the Class of 1949A, I wish you all the best going into the new year.

1949B

Ding Patton

These notes cover the period from May 16, 2024, to Aug. 15, 2024.

Last time, I reported on our 75th Reunion, but I want to share a few more final bits of information about it. It is certainly the end of an era for us! As a class, we will have no more reunions, but if some

of you are alive at what might be our 80th in 2029, feel free to go to Lexington and have a good time. I doubt I will be there. Honorary Brother Rat Joe Haggerty and his wife, Odie, said that if anyone plans to be there, let them know, and they will see you there.

We were the first class in 6 years to celebrate a 75th Reunion, and the Alumni Association treated us well. The staff were superb, and I hesitate to list individual names for fear of leaving someone out. Our hotel and hospitality room at the Col Alto were great, and the staff were accommodating to our needs. Look for pictures elsewhere in this Alumni Review.

As some of you may remember, the class had established a bank account many years ago for our reunion purposes when we were arranging them. The Alumni Agencies now handles all reunions, but we still had a small balance in the account. Greg Nelson managed it and wrote a check to me to close it. We had voted to give these funds to the Alumni Agencies, so I endorsed the check to them with instructions to pay any outstanding reunion expenses and use the remainder for Agencies’ purposes. The check was for $541.91, and after expenses are paid, which are not known yet, the balance will go to the Class of 1949B Unrestricted Endowment. Usually, they will not use these funds until the last brother rat has died, but I told them to use it earlier, as it will be worth more to the recipient now than in the future. I hope you concur with this decision.

Since returning home and getting back into the old routine, I have heard from Greg Nelson and Tommy Altizer. Tommy still plays golf twice a week and embarrasses me by walking 2 miles every day. I wish him well and to keep it up, as I have had to slow down and regret it. Greg works in the woodshop at Westminster Canterbury and enjoys talking with people who drop by the shop. Kitty is involved with a number of projects as well. They recently had dinner with a group of relatives and stay busy socially. Greg doesn’t drive much anymore but gets to go wherever he needs using transportation provided by the retirement home.

Terry Gabrerski, Lon Walter’s daughter, called to tell me that her mother, Doris, had died May 3, which I reported to you. She said Lon made her learn the inscription on the parapet, the Old Yell, and other VMI things when she was a child. I’m glad she didn’t challenge me to recite anything because I doubt that I could do it, and I know she could. Terry also told me that she represents VMI and especially ’49B whenever she has the opportunity. Lon retired from

the U.S. Air Force as a brigadier general, and Doris was an Air Force nurse when she met Lon. Following in her mother and father’s footsteps, Terry was an Air Force officer, retiring as a lieutenant general. She has two sons who are also Air Force officers. What an Air Force family!

Bob Lynd ’50B is arranging his class’ 75th Reunion and is doing it from Roswell, New Mexico. I don’t envy him as I know it was difficult to do, even from Staunton. Fortunately, the Alumni Association staff is great and makes the job easier. The purpose of mentioning this is to ask you to spread the word if you are in contact with anyone from ’50B to try to get them to attend and to get in touch with Bob. If they live close enough to Lexington, get them to offer to help him.

I have earlier reported to you on the deaths of Tommy Bowers, Doris Walter, Joan Rammel, and Janie Vann. Look for Tommy’s obituary elsewhere in this Alumni Review.

I recently spoke with Jim “Crew Chief” Morgan, who reported that he was now living in Doylestown, Pennsylvania. He said that he was just “hanging in there” and asked about the reunion, which he had intended to attend but was unable to at the last minute.

Years ago, Nobbie gave me the four-volume set of books, “One Hundred Years at V.M.I.,” by Col. William Couper ’904 I have just started reading Volume One, and I thought I knew a lot about the history of the Institute but am finding I know very little. To me, these books are fascinating reading, and I recommend them to you if you can find them.

In the last issue of the Alumni Review, I reported I had been elected class agent again, but it occurred to me that maybe some of you who were unable to attend might want to represent our class. If anyone wants the job, please let me know. In the meantime, send me some information for our next class notes!

Until next time, God bless America, VMI, and the Class of ’49B.

Ding

1950A

Garrett Smith ’20

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 1950A.

1950B

Robert F. Lynd

Much of the country has had terrible weather this past quarter—rain and floods, fires, high temperatures, etc. By the time you read this, I hope that is all over. Because as I write this, we are in the throes of the upcoming election. Both parties have had their conventions, and the candidates are finalized. And by the time the next article is due (mid-November), we should have resolved the election. But, enough of that.

Most of my attention at the moment is focused on our upcoming reunion in April. I’m sure some of you who are thinking of coming are dragging your feet to see “how you feel” as the time gets closer. Again, let me remind you. You can put your name down as coming, and if the situation changes, you can always cancel.

I’m working with the folks at the Alumni Agencies to set up the reunion. Hope to get a schedule of events out before the next article. That may give you a better reference as to coming or not.

But here are a few things to consider. This 75th Reunion will likely be our last. Some of us were surprised we are having this one. Would there be an 80th? That would be great, if possible. But this may be a last chance to visit with some of our brother rats. After all, we aren’t getting any younger. We will have a chance to see what the Institute’s campus looks like today. From the photos and videos available, it’s safe to say it looks a lot different than when we were there.

Regarding our reunion, here’s a photo of our ’50B plaque furnished to me by the son of Brother Rat John Berberich, Jake Berberich ’76. It’s on a wall in Memorial Garden. This will be a great place to gather for a group photo. Yes, I know we will have the traditional photo taken in front of Preston Library. That’s a more formal shot. One in front of the plaque can be more informal. One with everybody—spouses, children, etc. Do any of you remember when this plaque was placed and dedicated? And does anyone have another photo taken in front of this plaque that you’d like to share with all? If so, please send it. We had two more brother rats leave us this quarter. Jack Lyons died at home May 9, 2024. He was a very successful doctor who spent most of his medical career at Dartmouth, initially in surgery and later teaching. The other departure

was Bill Barnett, who also died at home July 17, 2024. He attended VMI for only a year and then went on to graduate from the U.S. Military Academy and later become a successful businessman in North Carolina.

With the passing of these two, it is time to recap some of our statistics. We graduated 176 out of 354 matriculants. That’s almost 50%. By my count, we have 21 brother rats still standing. Of those, 17 graduated, and four attended for just 1 year or less. So just under 10% of our graduates remain. According to the Alumni Agencies, the breakdown of the majors for those who graduated are civil engineer, four; electrical engineer, one; history, four; English, one; chemistry, one; biology, one; and pre-med, five. What does all this mean? I’m not sure, except to say the premeds seem to have the upper hand. Did they, being into medicine, take better care of themselves? Not sure about that ‘cause Tommy Kirk is in that group, and we all know he didn’t go to med school. He had other things on his mind. In looking over some of the data I recorded in February 2020, 41 graduates were still alive. We’ve about halved that in 4 years. Again, I ask, what does this mean? For one thing, it means we better get to our upcoming reunion before it’s too late!

And speaking of Tommy Kirk, here’s the latest in his world. He and Ann are keeping up their traveling. This time, they went back to Northern Italy, where Tom was when he retired from the Air Force, and then stayed on and started up his business ventures. Because he tells it so well, rather than giving you my synopsis of it, here’s his message telling about it. “We had the full month of May, based in a beautiful apartment in the center of Aviano (Provence of Pordenone) and with the great fighter base of Aviano. We flew directly into Venice Airport, got a rental car, and drove to Aviano (60 miles). Days passed quickly, with lots of rain the first week, then clearing. Visited Venice for 2 days, Trieste (my old home), Verona, Lake Garda, local beaches, and many fairly long drives seeing local provincial towns and countryside.

“We were sorry to leave because the entire area is right at the base of the Italian Alps, heavily forested and beautiful agriculture (lots of vineyards). Wonderful and friendly people, a great chance to practice my Italian. While meeting many locals in the small and well-attended bars everywhere. ... No other news ... tired of long airplane fights but content and happy from a super visit to old haunts with many wonderful memories.”

Lordy, makes me so jealous when I read this. I’ve mentioned before that I spent a 5-year tour in Italy, albeit down in the Naples area. While there and in traveling throughout the countryside,

as Tom says, there are so many delightful little villages—and their well-attended bars. After I retired, I returned twice to bicycle through the upper part of Italy. Once, we cycled from Venice to Pisa. The other time was from Parma to Ravenna. Europeans are so used to bicyclists that it’s a real pleasure traveling by that mode. France and the Netherlands are great, too. But be alert if you’re walking in Amsterdam or Leiden—you might get run over by a speeding cyclist.

Had a nice phone call from Forrest Getzen, one of my roommates. He has a bad balance problem and uses a walker. That’s kept him from falling. He’s living in a facility in Atlanta that takes good care of him. Says he takes a plethora of pills, but he has breakfast in his room and goes to the dining room for two other meals. He’s not using email anymore, just phone. He used to talk to Jack Lyons, another roommate of ours. Fortunately, one of his daughters lives nearby and visits him once a week. He says he’s pretty sure he won’t make it to our reunion, but he’ll be thinking about us. It’s always good to talk to Forrest; he’s had an amazing life and lived in several faraway places. Shows you what a chemistry background can do for you.

I’m gonna close it out for this time. It’s a bit short because very few “talk” to me. I’ll just say a few more words about our upcoming reunion. You have the hotel info by now, and as we go along, I’ll be emailing information to you as it becomes available so you can firm up your plans. I’ve said it earlier, and I’ll say it again. If you believe you have any chance of attending, reserve now. You can always cancel prior to the event, but at least you’ll have a toe in the door. From what I can tell so far, most folks who have said they’re coming will be accompanied by a son and/or a daughter or at least one or two others to help them along. And, as I’ve been informed by the Alumni Agencies, golf carts will be available for events like the parade to get one from the Parade Ground to the sentinel box for the Old Yell. This may be it, folks, so take advantage of it.

So, in the words of the late Randy Trappey,

Class of 1950B: The VMI Class of 1950B plaque in Memorial Garden.

“Lâche pas la potate” (Don’t drop the potato)—“Don’t give up!”

Let’s keep the red, white, and yellow floating on high!

¡Hasta la próxima vez!

Ursula Baxley

I want to thank from the bottom of my heart Jim Enochs and Cindy Eggleston Robertson. They are the angels who sent news this quarter. I am writing this Aug. 14, 2024.

Jim Enochs wrote he didn’t have any new news, but the Alumni Review’s listing of VMI’s 2024 football schedule, which includes a Sept. 14 game in Atlanta with Georgia Tech, brought memories many of our brother rats will share. “In 1950, the Corps voted on a ‘Corps trip’ to a road game, choosing between the William & Mary game in Norfolk and Georgia Tech in Atlanta. Despite some lobbying by our Deep South group, the William & Mary game was chosen.

“Nevertheless, I, as sports editor of the Cadet and several others, managed to get permission to go to Atlanta. We were, as I’m sure we’ll be this year, a heavy underdog, but we were there to witness an exciting and unforgettable upset, beating the Ramblin’ Wreck of Georgia Tech 14-13.

Some of our brother rats playing key roles in the victory were Jim Coley passing for over 200 yards, Joe Stump scoring two touchdowns, and Freddie Anson rushing for needed yardage. On defense, Kirby Bernich, Dick McFarlin, Sookie Hill, and Joe Adeeb harassed the Tech quarterback while Jack Lowden, Bill Leck, and Bland Wilson hampered their runners and receivers. The trip to Norfolk was also successful, as we beat William & Mary. But upsetting Georgia Tech was the high point of that season for many of us.”

My next lovely letter came from Cindy Eggleston Robertson. Her parents had such lovely parties for the Class of 1951. She wrote, “I found two photos I think are worthy of the ’51 class notes. I sent a photo of Eugenio ‘Henny’ Lopez of the Philippines, taken on the stoop in 1949. Lopez later set up a chair for Asian studies at VMI just before he died in 1999. The other photo is of Jerry Eggleston 3rd Class year, October 1948. Jerry made the varsity football team that year and was flexing his muscles.

“Most BRs would agree that Eggleston and

Henny Lopez, whose family owned radio stations and newspapers in Manila, sometimes borrowed funds from Jerry, who had a monthly disability check [from] developing ‘jungle rot’ in Guam. Henny needed cash for trips to D.C. to the Philippine Embassy in order to secure a date for a dance. In D.C., he would peruse a yearbook of Filipino women currently attending college in the U.S. and contact them.

“On graduation day, after George C. Marshall ’901, who was back for his 50th Reunion, handed the Class of ’51 their diplomas, Henny told Jerry, ‘Someday I’m going to bring you to the Philippines.’

“It wasn’t until 1970 that the pair were to see one another again. After visiting for 3 days and seeing VMI, Henny whisked Jerry and Anna to his apartment in the Waldorf Towers. They had dinner with Bob Raeburn at the Four Seasons, as well as [saw] ‘Applause’ with Lauren Bacall. In 1978, Henny came to Lexington to see Jerry during the dedication of the George C. Marshall statue. BRs Jim Connolly and Harry Atkinson came to see Lopez, and they all attended the Institute Society [Dinner] with their wives.

Lopez were about as different as two could be, yet a bond was formed in barracks that would last a lifetime. Perhaps it was because Jerry had seen the Pacific as an enlisted Marine before coming to VMI. Maybe it was because Henny’s father placed him on a very tight budget, hoping it would build his son’s character. Remarkably,

“True to his word, Jan. 9–23, 1996, Henny Lopez brought Jerry and Anna to visit his country. While there, they were treated like a king and queen. In 1999, Henny Lopez died after a 5-year battle with cancer.” Thank you, Cindy, for sharing these memories from your dad’s diary.

I want to thank these two people for sharing their memories.

Please send me some more news for the next issue.

God bless VMI and the Class of ’51.

1952

Mary Lanford Price

Dear Class of 1952 Family,

I am beginning these notes in July, but you will be reading them in November. So much will have happened by the time you open your mailbox and find the last issue of the Review for 2024 tucked inside: The arrival of the Rat Mass of 2025+3, two weekends of fall reunions on post, and much of what I hope will be a successful season for our Keydet football team. But for now, the temperature is above 95, and with outdoor plans curtailed by the heat, I’m getting an early start on class notes. This quarter was marked by the passing of both

Class of 1951: Jerry Eggleston, a member of the Keydet football team, during his 3rd Class year in October 1948.

Class of 1951: Eugenio “Henny” Lopez, who matriculated from the Philippines, in 1949. Lopez established the Eugenio Lopez Visiting Chair for Asian studies at VMI.

Dr. Willcox Ruffin June 18 and Mr. James P. Miller July 4. Taps notices for both brother rats are included in this issue of the Review.

Dr. Ruffin, who matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, returned to Tidewater after earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Virginia.

Dr. Ruffin’s obituary recounts a lifetime spent serving others as a plastic surgeon specializing in burn trauma and reconstructive surgery: “During his long career, he maintained a successful practice, served as chief of plastic surgery for Children’s Hospital of the Kings Daughters, Sentara Hospitals, and as a professor of Eastern Virginia Medical School. Doctor Ruffin was highly regarded by his colleagues and his patients, not only for his expert surgical skills but also for his kindness and compassion—truly a gentleman surgeon.

“In addition to his medical career, Doctor Ruffin contributed to the community which he loved so deeply. He served on the board of directors of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, the Norfolk Forum, and Physicians for Peace. His civic works extended beyond Hampton Roads, as he established a burn hospital in Nicaragua in his retirement. Doctor Ruffin also was a lifelong member of First Presbyterian Church in Norfolk, where he served as a deacon and elder for many years.

I’d like to thank Dr. Andy Dickinson and Sandra Pittman, widow of Gary Pittman, for notifying me of Dr. Ruffin’s passing. Here at the Alumni Agencies, we have online search tools specially designed to find obituaries, but these tools are not failsafe, and we depend heavily on word of mouth. Should you hear that a brother rat or widow has passed away, please let me know as soon as you can.

James P. “Jim” Miller matriculated from North Little Rock, Arkansas, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He then served with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, and married his wife, Patricia, in Little Rock, Arkansas, while he was stationed at Camp Polk, Louisiana. Mr. Miller then went on to a 38-year career with Citgo Petroleum.

His obituary states, “Pat and Jim had been

Both Dr. Jim Wiley and Ella Delisio, widow of Louis Delisio, responded to my email about Mr. Miller’s passing and expressed their sorrow. Dr. Wiley was also kind enough to check the class roster for me, and he let me know that Pauline “Polly” Tuck, widow of Frank Tuck, died Jan. 28, 2023. In addition, I learned recently that Roberta Simon, widow of John Simon, died in September 2023 after a lifetime battling post-polio syndrome. Please join me in sending condolences to the Ruffin, Miller, Tuck, and Simon families.

I spoke with Jim Mecredy in late June, and he told me that the service for his late wife, Lucette, was “beautiful,” with approximately 30 family members in attendance. Both of his sons, Dave Mecredy ’78 and Tim Mecredy ’80, spoke, and Jim’s granddaughter sang “Jesus Loves Me” in French. Jim keeps in touch with Jim Wiley and Andy Dickinson, and I’m sure he’d enjoy hearing from you, as well. If you’d like Jim Mecredy’s contact information, please reach out to me.

“Doctor Ruffin’s greatest joy was found in the life and family he and his beloved wife, Anne, built during their long and happy marriage. He was an exceptional father and grandfather, always devoting time to his family and friends. He loved the outdoors and spent many days hunting with his sons, fishing with his grandchildren, running 5Ks, or enjoying rounds of golf with his VMI friends. His friendships, some going back to his childhood, were among the most important relationships of his life.”

Most fittingly, Dr. Ruffin’s brother rats predicted his personal and professional success, writing in the Bomb, “Besides being one of Doc’s most promising medical students, Bill has found time to become a fine wrestler. For some reason, he has never become overly intrigued by our military system. Behind his jovial personality, we find as sincere and true a friend as one could wish. Things won’t seem right when we don’t see Annie at the hops. We will only know that the sweetest girl in the world is nursing Bill through medical school.”

members of Asbury United Methodist Church since 1973. Jim was a life member of the American Society of Civil Engineers, the Oklahoma Society of Professional Engineers, and the National Society of Professional Engineers. Jim was a sports fan, and his interests and hobbies were reading and studying Civil War and World War II history and putting together photo albums/scrapbooks of their travels, their family, and assembling family genealogy.

“Jim was an outstanding father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He loved his family deeply and was very active in attending events related to his grandchildren as they were growing up. He was a strong believer in Jesus Christ and read his Bible daily with great discipline and passion. He had a lengthy prayer list that he meticulously went through nightly. He was unfailingly polite, respectful, and pleasant to everyone he encountered right up until the end of his life.”

I heard from retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. John Roche of San Diego, California, after I sent him a birthday card and a plea for news. He wrote, “Dear Mary, your gracious card is displayed in the den, the first to arrive. I so enjoy seeing our cadets in their formal splendor, thank you. Much too warm here, 90s for some time now. I’m still swimming, although your dad would chuckle at my short distances. Sorry to hear of our BR deaths. My high school alumni magazine has eliminated my class as having little or no input. Distressing. I’m still driving, but always grateful when Mary takes over that chore. Again, thank you for keeping us informed about our BRs; thank you for your diligence.”

Near the first of August, realizing my class notes material was on the shorter side, I sent a birthday card to Vann Boudreaux of Erath, Louisiana, and just about a week later, I was delighted to go to the mailbox and find this note: “Mary, thanks for the card. Even though it brings age 94, I’m still in good health and stay active. Had a good garden this year with all the rain and good food for the stock. Looks like I’ll try for 100.” Mr. Boudreaux, thanks for the note—and here’s hoping I’ll be sending you a birthday card for many years to come!

Just as these notes were going to press, I learned of the death of Mr. John P. Greenwood of Richmond, Virginia, who passed away Aug. 15, 2024, at the age of 92. He matriculated from

Class of 1952: John Greenwood with his airplane sporting the VMI logo on the left wing.

Petersburg, Virginia, and spent 2 years at VMI before going on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Jane, and was preceded in death by a son. His Taps notice will appear in the February 2025 issue of the Review. I’d like to extend a special thanks to Jim Ferrell ’67 and Jan Abernathy ’67 (and Jan’s wife, Joan), who notified me of Mr. Greenwood’s passing. Mr. Ferrell supplied the very nice photo of Mr. Greenwood that accompanies these notes.

That’s all I have to report for this quarter. Please stay in touch by any means easy and comfortable for you—email, phone, text, or snail mail. I welcome any and all communications. Wishing each of you a joyous holiday season and a blessed new year. ’52! ’52! ’52!

WilliamC.NoellJr.

Brother Rats and Our Widows:

This past quarter, we lost our BR Frank Wooten in Virginia Beach. Judy and I have enjoyed Frank and Lois’ company many times over the past years, and they have been to our house on reunion weekends. Frank has had a series of medical problems since the first of the year. I did write Lois a note. Also, we lost Danny (Diamandi) Chris (Chrysostomos) Diamondidis of Cary, North Carolina, in June. Both obits will appear in this issue of the Alumni Review.

This summer has been kind of quiet as for news from any of you—but I certainly hope it has been a good one for you. We started it off June 1, Judy’s birthday, by attending Lexington’s outdoor Lime Kiln theater to hear the Chatham Rabbits. They are from North Carolina, just south of Greensboro, with their property adjoining my sisters’—being good friends and “horse people.” We really enjoyed hearing Austin and Sarah play/sing. Sarah can really make the banjo sing and writes most of their music. We plan to see them again in Knoxville in October. Our daughter, Jennifer Beacham, and a granddaughter, Mary Jude (13), spent nearly 2 months with us in two intervals. Jennifer really took care of us—spoiled us. She did almost all

the cooking, as well as many kinds of small projects that my mind thought up, but my body definitely said no. Mary Jude was the third grandchild to sleep on my VMI “hay”—still in good shape after all those years—been at our Tennessee lake house since 1994. I did add a VMI mattress on top of mine about 10 years ago to make it more comfortable.

In July, Judy and I attended a music gathering at the Kerns (old bread bakery) Food Hall to listen to friends from The Villages in Florida, who used to play at our end of the summer music gathering. It is quite a very nice, new, and large venue in Knoxville, with food courts, a restaurant, a bar, and an outdoor stage—sitting area with indoor-outdoor carpet. In early August, Judy and I attended a small gathering of local alumni at Chris Jones ’96 home for his change of leadership for the Knoxville alumni chapter. The new president is Nathan Murphy ’07, who is a BR of our new athletic director, Jamaal Walton ’07. Both Nathan and Brad Pruitt ’07 praised the Institute’s choice and stated what “a good guy” he is. Chris is in a local band in his leisure time and played with John Brodie (Hon) in town in Lexington, as well as the VMI band. Judy and I went to hear his band in August at the Tennessee Tap House and had a very enjoyable time listening and being with his family. We are trying to recruit Chris’ son, Harrison, for VMI next year; he is making a “barracks weekend” visit in October while his parents are staying with us at the Woodduck house. Harrison is also considering the Naval Academy, as he wants to be a Navy pilot; however, we are working on him in that the Naval Academy is too large and another 3-plus hours away from home.

As for Judy and me, we are doing pretty well these days—still a very busy schedule between Tennessee and Virginia. Judy had a heart procedure in May due to a near-death reaction to the chemical in the stress test she took—OK now, and no check-up for 1 year. However, my age has finally caught with me somewhat—never have had any parts replaced yet, but I did have a pacemaker procedure in late July. So far, the results are still iffy, but will get a check-up this week, and I hope some type of adjustment (?). Regretfully, the summer so far has been very hot, 90-95, which is too hot for an old guy outside, so I have not done any boating yet. It

Class of 1953: Judy and Bill Noell with Chris Jones ’96 and his family at the Tennessee Tap House in Knoxville, Tennessee, in August 2024.

Class of 1953: Judy and Bill Noell with their friends Austin and Sarah McCombie at Lime Kiln Theater in Lexington, Virginia, in June 2024.

Class of 1953: Mary Jude Beacham, granddaughter of Judy and Bill Noell, on Bill’s VMI hay in Tennessee in June 2024.

is surprising how much time is taken up these days with medical check-ups/procedures of some kind. I am sure most of you know about that! So next, it is on to the VMI vs. W&M football game (opening game—Thursday night) in Williamsburg, on the way to Gaston Lake, North Carolina, for the Labor Day weekend with my oldest son, a granddaughter, and three great-grandchildren.

It seems I do not receive any news very often from you out there for our notes. Not even medical problems, so I am thinking maybe I should now only write about the losses of our BRs and stop filling the page with what is happening in my life. You should have received too much of that by now, as I am never brief. I have now been writing these notes for 36 years times four times a year, which equals 144 notes, and I happen to still have all 144 issues of those Alumni Review on hand—ugh.

However, I did receive a nice email from Susan Moncrief. She “will be in Avon, Colorado, leaving Thursday and returning Tuesday. We will be white rafting on Saturday. What an adventure. Arthur and I white rafted through the Royal Gorge about 16 years ago ... what fun we had. My sister, her daughter, our niece, will be going. They will be doing a lot of hiking ... I hike on these 190 acres daily ... so I will skip that and will be with my friends who live there.” Judy does hear from Betty Woodward periodically on Facebook. Betty still attends the Institute Society Dinners in November in Lexington.

Brown-bagged it. (Were there no six-packs then? Can’t recall.) I headed back to post. No one was out and about. Got to barracks. Quiet. Went through the arch and started across the courtyard for our room on the second stoop, Room 270. Not a soul, not a sound. Suddenly, footsteps to my left and behind me. I slipped into a small dark corner of the barracks inner wall where an office was located. A TAC officer passed by me. Whew. Even in the dark, I recognized Capt. Andy Anderson. Wow, I thought, that was close. He started to turn into Old Barracks. Just at that moment, he turned and shone a flashlight full on me. At the same time, because I had been holding the beer so tightly, the bag broke open, and 12 cans of delicious Schlitz beer went rolling out on the courtyard floor. You can imagine the rest. I got to enjoy the lovely Rockbridge County countryside walking penalty tours on Wednesdays. I guess Anderson probably consumed the Schlitz. I seem to remember we had to walk a mile for each penalty tour and were confined to barracks for weekly or monthly periods. I think I got three and 15 that time, and it cured me from running the block.

Today, we made our version of rat gravy, that lifesaving VMI mixture; at school, it was oily peanut butter and watered-down maple syrup. Here, it is peanut butter and honey and cinnamon, a vast improvement over what we had in the 1950s because the peanut butter in the mess hall was too oily, and the maple syrup was thin and certainly not pure.

10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and extended family.

Glen Cock was also 92 and died June 6, 2024. He was born in Meadows of Dan, Virginia, where he grew up on a farm tending cows, chickens, and Hereford hogs. He was a member of the Meadows of Dan High School basketball team that, in 1949–50, won a state championship. He graduated from the Institute in electrical engineering, going to work for Tampa Electric Company after deferring his military service for a year before entering the U.S. Air Force. Glen flew C-119s in the Air Force. He returned after military service to TECO and retired after 41 years, having become a professional engineer. He was renowned as a National Electrical Code expert and served as such in many court cases.

He is survived by two sons, a daughter, and a granddaughter. Glen was preceded in death by his wife of 69 years, Elizabeth.

Dr. Johnny Mapp, the “Norfolk Flyer,” died July 18, 2024. He excelled not only as an athlete but also in medicine. He graduated from the University of Virginia Medical School in 1958 and practiced family medicine for over 65 years. Another of “Doc” Carroll’s boys at VMI. Johnny was greatly admired and highly rated as a medical doctor. He was very active in church and civic affairs. Johnny is survived by his wife, Betty; two sons; one daughter; four grandsons; and extended family.

J.M. Perry Archer

Greetings,

I only ran the block one time. It was during our 2nd Class year, out of New Barracks. It was winter 1952. We decided in our room that we badly needed some beer, and somehow, it was my turn to go out and get it after it was dark. Really cold. An overcoat was necessary. It was no big deal to walk right out of barracks, cross the Parade Ground, and go downtown for the stuff. I walked through the W&L campus and turned left at the Episcopal church. Down the street. There was a place on the corner, a restaurant where we sometimes went run by an Italian couple, and I headed there. The beer I bought was my favorite—Schlitz—12 cans.

Sorry to say that three BRs have passed away: Bud Bare, Glen Cock, and Johnny Mapp Bud Bare was 92 and died in Silver Spring, Maryland, June 1, 2024. He was born in Lexington, Virginia. After graduation from the Institute in civil engineering, he moved to Maryland in 1952 and went to work for C&P Telephone. He retired from C&P in 1992 as general manager. Before C&P, though, he served with the U.S. Army from 1954–56. During his military service at Fort Lewis, Washington, he led an Army group on a winter expedition to install a temporary Bailey bridge, a type of portable, prefabricated truss bridge (a type of bridge of connected elements developed during World War II in Great Britain) over the Nisqually River on the side of Mount Rainier.

In 1970, Bud earned a Master of Arts degree from Johns Hopkins. His interests included playing tennis, bridge, solving crosswords, and relaxing at the beach. Surviving are his wife of 70 years, Jacqueline Sloan Bare; four daughters;

As everyone knows, Johnny was co-captain of the 1953 VMI football team, and he had a stellar career on the track team. He was a defensive back on the rat football team, leading in tackles and interceptions. In rat track, he won five events in a single track meet. As a 3rd Class cadet in track, he outscored the opposition by himself while winning five events in a single track meet, including hurdles, dashes, and the broad jump. It goes on and on. He broke records and was named All-Southern and AllState. He declined an offer to train for the 1956 Olympics, opting for medical school. In his final year in football, he won Honorable Mention AP All-American. I have not mentioned everything he did and won while at VMI. And no one will ever forget the 1953 football game against VPI when he faked a safety right out of his jock on one scoring run. I was not at that game, but the excited radio announcer was yelling his head off as it happened. And so did I. As I said, I have not told everything Johnny did and accomplished in track and football, but it can be read on the internet.

Heard from Ollie Hux. He recently attended a Colorado rat send-off. There were three rats being

honored/introduced. All three are athletes—two in lacrosse, one in wrestling. Ollie was asked to speak. One of his remarks given was it seems unbelievable that time has gone by so fast, and we have gotten so old. We can all relate. There were around 40 people attending the event. Ollie recalled the dedication of Marshall Arch in 1951, that blisteringly hot, blindingly bright sunny day in our rat year, where people we saw looked so old. Now we are old and look it. The old world rolls on. We wondered if there are any BRs who are still married to their Ring Figure date. Ollie is, and her name is Ellie. How sweet, as Jackie Gleason used to say. That’s all, folks. Send me anything you want to see appear in the Alumni Review. Thanks.

Class Notes

local nursery picking up some items, and the attendant helping me load my plants saw my VMI sticker in the back window of my vehicle and told me his daughter graduated from VMI, went into the Marine Corps, and is about to get out after 5 years and go to nursing school. I hope to catch up with her for lunch when she gets home. Best to all.

Pete Haake tells us, “I am doing well in summer ’24. Cathy had shoulder replacement surgery, and the recovery is long. Lots of therapy and exercising. So far, so good! Otherwise, we are pretty good for 90 years. Our family is all close by, which is a godsend! We don’t get up to the river or travel much anymore but do enjoy our gardens and birds. The summer has been great. We both send our best wishes to all. Go Virginia Mil.”

I had a call from Chuck Ritchey saying he is still in Texas and doing well.

1957

George Sydnor Jr.

Howard Lawrence

Virginia Military Institute: An Uncommon Purpose!

In those early days, the county stretched west to the Mississippi River and then northwest on a 1955

Now that Helen and I are in a retirement home, it seems like when the staff comes in, it’s OCMNI. I was thinking of starting a stepoff, but the ghost of Col. Pancake ’938 warned me I couldn’t run the midnight march anymore. I got a message from the Alumni Agencies that our reunion is scheduled for April 14–15, 2025, and that rooms are being reserved at the Wyndham Wingate and, if approved, you will get a preview of a “save the date” to put it on your calendar.

From the Pacific Northwest, we hear from Tad Russell that he was sorry to hear about Bill Shea. He, Bill, and five other brother rats went into the U.S. Marine Corps and were the second basic class of 1955. They graduated Dec. 15, 1955, from Officer Basic School, putting miles behind Quantico heading for various duty stations. In the Pacific Northwest (Seattle), we got a new chapter president living close to Joint Base Lewis-McChord in the Tacoma area. So, many of us in the Seattle area find it difficult to travel the distance for chapter meetings. My wife and I so far have been blessed with good health and keep active with swimming, cycling, the gym, and, of course, lots of gardening. Next year our class will have its 70th anniversary. It seems just yesterday we were all young and working on a new life. Yet, in a way, it seems like eons ago, and I wonder where all the years went. I was at our

I had a long call from Bill Nolley followed by this message, which says, “I trust that all is well in the ‘Lawless headquarters,’ and we are staying in good shape for the coming of our 70th Reunion in April. Bob Bowden and I have been meeting for lunch in Charlottesville at the Tip Top restaurant thanks to his two sons, who transport us from Lynchburg and Richmond to this delicious venue spot. By the time of this printing, we would have solved the great issues facing the big U.SA. As George Burns would sing, “I wish I was 18 again.” Hope to see all who are still standing tall in April. Rah Virginia Mil.”

Tom Williamson says life is good, and nothing new to report. He is eager to get to the reunion but has heard nothing from the Institute about it. (Tom, see my note above.)

Reg Ridgely has had to move into assisted living. Alice reports both of them are on walkers and that Reg’s springboard diving has come back to bite him, as his right knee is bad and prevents him from doing much of anything.

Taps: Dr. William S. “Bill” Stickley and Benjamin “Ben” Warner Lewis Semmes Note that Ben was a fourth-generation alumnus.

You should be hearing from me in a couple of months, so record your adventures and memories to share with the class.

1956

There is currently no class agent for the class of 1956. Please contact Norma Robinson at nrobinson@vmiaa.org if you are interested in filling this position.

Good afternoon, brother rats of the Class of ’57. It’s a late summer morning or early afternoon here in the “metropolis” of Fincastle, estimated metropolitan statistical area population of 757 as of this morning. For those of you who have never heard of Fincastle, let me explain: Fincastle is located on US-220, about 15 miles north of Roanoke and 45 minutes south of the Parade Ground at VMI. The town was established in 1772 and is the county seat of Botetourt County. The town began as and remains as the seat of Botetourt County. At the time, Fincastle was the governmental center of a vast tract of land that once included the present state of Kentucky and much of what is now West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, and the southern tip of Wisconsin.

Barney Lawless

Class of 1957: Dick and Sarah Collier with their grandson, Warner Collier ’24, at Warner’s graduation May 16, 2024.

45% angle again to the Mississippi and even included Fort Dearborn on the southwest edge of Lake Michigan. So, if you happened to live in that area and had a legal issue to be rectified, one had to saddle his horse and ride 780 +/- miles to Fincastle and its courthouse. That being somewhat impractical gave rise to the practice of “frontier justice,” whereas one took matters into his own hands and went about solving the problems at hand by whatever means lent themselves appropriately at the time.

This set of notes will be shorter than usual, as Comandante Ben Elmore and his trusted call-a-thon team leaders of Ron McManus, Martin Andersen, Don Coombs, Tony DiCesare, Monroe (mighty “Mo”) Levine, Curly Mason, John (the “Pags”) Paganelli, and Nick (the “Greek”) Kallelis have been on a well-deserved sabbatical leave of absence. It is hoped they all will be able to return to active duty in due course with the results of their calls to the “standing” ’57 BRs in the next issue of these notes.

Those who will hit their ninth decade on this terrestrial ball since the last set of these notes will be Carter Fox May 25, followed by B.D. Ayres June 22. Then those who will hit the 90s threshold before the next set of notes due by Nov. 15 are Bob “Mad Dog” Bolling Oct. 1, Skip Richardson Oct. 13, Claiborne Coupland Oct. 27, and Carl LeBourdais Nov. 3, to be followed shortly thereafter by Kirk Hubbard Nov. 18, and then the big month of December with John “the Pags” Paganelli Dec. 7, Charlie Smith Dec. 20, and Martin Andersen Dec. 21, with the year to be crowned off with Dick Collier Dec. 29. Congratulations, guys ... get ready for another decade to become centenarians.

Class notes

Mike Parish ’77, and George Sydnor ’57, placed flowers on the altar Aug. 11 to the glory of God and in memory of Jonathan Daniels ’61, who was designated a martyr in 1991 for his sacrifice of his life Aug. 20, 1965, in the civil rights movement. Howard Lawrence stays in touch with John Whittle and wife Carole, who are doing well.

seems like all was well until we hit 88, and then all #@$% broke loose with medical issues of one type or another. We just have to play the cards we get dealt.”

Joe Spivey alerted George to a story written by B.D. “Drummy” Ayres several years ago when he had a featured column for the New York Times about a guy down south whose house was eaten by a kudzu vine, as only guys from the South could appreciate the invasive kudzu that was originally planted alongside highways to control erosion. Control erosion, it did, while advancing across the countryside covering everything or obstacle that stood in its path. Ben Elmore later had a nice chat with B.D. and said they talked for about 20 minutes about “everything and nothing.” B.D. had just returned from his regular, daily 2-mile walk and related how he enjoyed talking with BRs of years past as part of our every 6-month program “how goes it” call.

Class of 1957: With Noah Campbell ’24, 2023–24 recipient of the VMI Class of 1981 Scholarship in Honor of Don and Priscilla Jamison, are Sara Cline, Noah’s mother; Priscilla Jamison; David Campbell, Noah’s father; Marc Barthello ’81; and Col. Adrian Bogart ’81, then-commandant.

Now, picking up just-received Issue 3 of Alumni Review, the Class of 1957 was again represented by John Kuchnia in the Central North Carolina Chapter at its annual senior breakfast. And then, who could not but notice the prominent picture on the inside of the Review’s back cover of Warner Collier ’24, grandson of BR Dick Collier, participating in taking the review of the Change of Command Parade May 14, 2024. Warner was Honor Court president, cadet captain, and like his father, wore academic stars during his cadetship.

VMI men at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Fincastle, Charlie Echols ’55, Paul Murphy ’02,

John occasionally plays golf with Don Coombs and reports that Don is still driving the ball like a gorilla and then “putts” the same way? Hon. John Poffenbarger is still holding forth in Charleston, West Virginia, and stays in touch with Clay Coupland and Kirk Hubbard and says “it

John Paganelli wrote that although he was 6 weeks late in getting his call report in, he was still waiting for his bottle of Jack Daniels from Ben Elmore. So finally, in despair, he belatedly sent in his report that he had talked with both Nick Kallelis and Fritz Scholz. Both were doing well. Nick works out regularly at his gym not far from his home on Lake Norman in North Carolina, and he and wife Carmen remain very involved in the local Greek Orthodox Church. Fritz said he still walks 4-and-a-half miles a day and then cuts his grass “for good measure” to keep in shape. Pags called and left messages for Ed Powell, Dudley “Pruney” Price, and Skip Richardson wishing them well but otherwise was unable to make contact.

Paul “P.D.” Phillips and wife Ann continue to do well with an active lifestyle, as can be witnessed by the picture of them with their eight great-grandchildren ... and P.D. advised that the ninth “was on the way.”

Joe Wickes, in a note to Howard, reviewed a synopsis of his activity following graduation: “After graduating with a degree in electrical engineering, I spent a year as an instructor at VMI in EE. Then, on to Fort Knox for my tour in the Army, training new tank soldiers. I then got a job at a firm in Silver Spring, Maryland, working on the Navy’s guided missile systems. I spent a year working on the USS Long

Class of 1957: P.D. and Ann Phillips with eight of their nine great-grandchildren.

Beach, the Navy’s first nuclear-powered cruiser. Next came marriage to my wife, Joan, who passed away in November 2022. I have two daughters who live close by in Rockville, Maryland, and three wonderful granddaughters. After working for a number of years at Raytheon, I retired. But I continue to live in a big house that would probably be called a messy house. Fortunately, there is no room inspection. So, I keep busy with ‘this and that’ with bad legs and bad ears. I jokingly tell people I must be pregnant; surely, I cannot be fat. I owe my friend and classmate, Fritz Scholz, a call ... we attended school together in Roanoke a very long time ago. Unfortunately, I have not been back to VMI or Roanoke in a very long time. Interestingly, my granddaughter is dating a cadet from VMI, so I guess there is not much else to say.”

And then Bill Gay chimed in with this missive back March 17: “Hi, guys, take a look at Saturday’s Wall Street Journal Book Reviews. There is a great review and summary of Josiah Bunting’s ’63 ‘The Making of a Leader’ about George C. Marshall ’901. He was ‘The Paragon of Leadership.’ God, how I wish he was with us today! Rah Virginia Mil!”

We had a nice email from Jeff Hamilton ’81 following a “small world” encounter with P.D. Phillips in a Walmart in Destin, Florida, along with a photo recognizing the Jamison ’81 Scholarship Fund and its award to Noah Campbell ’24, the scholarship recipient who was a 3.8 GPA biology major and regimental S-6 and plans to attend medical school after his graduation. This took place in Main Arch with Priscilla Jamison, widow of BR Don Jamison, along with Commandant Adrian Bogart ’81. The Jamison scholarship was started in 1998 and now ranks in the top 20% of all Institute scholarships. These are restricted funds only, not to be used for any other purpose; cheers to ’57 and ’81, two of the best classes ever.

The widows’ corner: We sadly advise of the passing of Priscilla Jamison May 26 and Anne Pipkin June 7. Katie Dickinson continues to do well and appreciates the periodic calls from John Poffenbarger, who checks in with her on a periodic basis. Dot Wood called the Alumni Agencies office and advised Norma Robinson July 23 to report that Brother Rat Clayton “Dixie” Thomas, our long-time dedicated class agent for the Class of ’57, had passed away 2 days earlier and that, unfortunately, his wife, Dawn, who was always by his side helping with the class agent duties/responsibilities, was afflicted with dementia.

Since the last edition of these class notes, with the loss of Dixie, our ranks of those BRs who graduated have now been reduced to 56. And, before

Class Notes

signing off on this edition of our ’57 class notes, we continue our honored tradition of remembering those brother rats who have “crossed over the river to rest under the shade of the trees.” Our 17th list of those gone but not forgotten Class of ’57: Nat Pendleton, June 5, 2014; Wade Douthat, March 26, 2015; Cliff Dowdy, April 9, 2015; Jim Bryant, July 4, 2015; and Tom “T.K.” Massey, Dec. 4, 2015. Rest in peace, brother rats who have passed, until at last we are all reunited; close ranks, brother rats still standing, as we continue our march forward on life’s path into the vast unknown and whatever the future may bring.

As it says in part in our “Doxology,” “The spirit blends with those we cheer, our brother rats we hold so dear. So now Keydets, with one voice cry, God bless our class and VMI.”

Your Class Agents, George and Howard

1958

Lee McCown

Greetings from Richmond in the hottest summer of its history. Thank goodness our HVAC repair took place before the temperatures passed three digits. Apologies for our family photos dominating this time. Please send me some of yours, even if they have some age on them. In some of the other classes’ notes, I enjoy their old photos.

My first report is that our second grandchild graduating from college this year is Jack McCown ’24, second son of Derek McCown ’89 Jack was a distinguished graduate (GPA above 3.5) with Institute Honors. He wore academic stars for 4 years, double majoring in English and history. The family joke, with only slight exaggeration, is that all combined, the GPAs of the three generations preceding Jack don’t equal his.

This summer, he was in charge of counselors at a summer camp in North Carolina. It was definitely a family affair, as his sister, Dottie, worked with girls at the adjacent camp. Derek’s wife, Anu, was the camp physician for a week, and their son, Vin, age 8, spent a week as a first-time camper. I was sure he would not survive a day without his beloved electronic devices, but I’m proud of him for proving me wrong.

Jack will enter the Marine Corps at Quantico in January. He did not graduate with a commission, as he had some metal implanted in his foot as a child to correct a bunion problem. He will go to

Quantico for OCS and then on to 6 months of basic school. Three down, eight to go on the grandchildren undergraduate degrees; nine, counting our first great-grandchild, Louisa Valentine McCown, whose first birthday we just celebrated. She’s the daughter of oldest grandson Morgan and granddaughter of son Derek McCown

Close to the Fourth of July, Laura and I enjoyed lunch in downtown Williamsburg with Carolyn and Don Cuthrell Don and I discovered we’d had the same VCU Health surgeon, him for his neck, one of many surgeries he’s endured and mine for those pesky brain bleeds (hematomas).

Both of us find ourselves lucky that such talented and highly trained people exist. Don’s ordeal sounded more challenging than mine. When he was finally done with his hated neck brace, he took it outside and drove his car over it.

Don reminded me of why his Marine Corps experience ended just shy of 5 years: He jumped out of a proverbial perfectly good airplane and got almost to the ground when a heavy wind blew him with his 30-pound pack sideways, causing serious injuries to his head, neck, and a shoulder that had to be replaced. It’s sure an understatement to call that a “hard landing.” He was offered the chance to stay in the Corps, but at a desk job, which he did not want. After that, he had a long career in radio. That seems perfect because don’t we all remember that big 1st Battalion commander voice we could hear from one

Class of 1958: Jeanie Woodman, who attended reunions with Jan Woodman, with their daughter, Alexandra Johnson.

end of the Parade Ground to the other?

We were interested to learn that, like his grandfather, Cuthrell, grandson Preston King not only served in the Marine Corps, but he also served in the same unit as Don while stationed in Okinawa. He now has a very successful business in the mysterious modern world of artificial intelligence, where he creates content for online applications. Now in his 30s, he gives the Marine Corps credit for his discipline. He and his wife and daughter live in Midlothian, Virginia, and are expecting a son.

Carolyn continues to be very busy with her pet-sitting company—mostly dogs, a few cats. Don boasts that she possesses 68 house keys, so she has sure gained the trust of a lot of customers.

Following my head injury, I reported my good recovery to all of you. This prompted Jules Berman to send me a challenge: “Glad to hear you are doing well. Bill Walker and I challenge you to be with us as the last men standing.” I accepted the challenge, as my mother started smoking in her teens, smoked to age 85, and lived to 95 and of sound mind. I’m betting on having a substantial amount of her DNA.

I also got a response from Rich Neuburger: “Lee, happy to hear the good news. As mentioned previously, I had the same thing happen to me—falling out of bed and hitting the bed table. Since your accident, my nightly ritual is moving the bed table far enough away. Thanks for reaching out, and I promise to never forget your name.” Thanks, Rich. I’m glad you got back in touch so I could share details of your interesting California life with the class. Stay in touch!

connections to the Class of 1958 I’m aware of. I understand it’s called Hampton Roads now, a change from our class’ Tidewater Club. That region produced some of our high achievers and big personalities. The Tidewater Club members listed in the Bomb include only Tom Saunders, Bill Wood, Gene Martin, and “Hoss.” (If you know who Hoss is, please let me know.)

Coupland, Ken Godfrey, Charlie Hayes, Carl Hellstrom ’57, Bob Hickerson, Bill Holland, Bill Keefe, Curley Mason, Rod McCormack ’57, Tom Nance, Darrell Rice, Warren Richardson, George Schell, Johnny Schmidt, Gates Sykes, Eddie Taylor, Jack Trafton, Jim Webber, and Warren Yaun, who’s still on this side of the grass. If you know of others still alive, please let me know.

Bill Walker has moved from Reedville, a river town not far from Richmond. “Moved back to Virginia Beach after being away for almost 70 years,” he said. “Been keeping a low profile since I lost BeLinda last August. Guess it’s time to crawl out from under my rock, but it’s not easy.” Bill’s new address is 4308 Cambria Circle, Virginia Beach, VA 23455, phone 703-402-2201, email wwalker.1319@gmail.com. Best to you in your old/new hometown, Bill.

Bill asked, “Who of my BRs are in the area?” I was sad to have to report to him that Carolyn and Bill Harshaw and Betty Jean Clarke, widow of Hunter Clarke, are the only Hampton Roads

There is a note under that four-man list saying, “The remainder of the members expressed a desire to be left anonymous as a majority are traveling incognito.” Next to the list is a photo showing lots of Tidewater cadets at the coal pile, but none are named. Of course, the Earl of Bennett is easily identified in the back row in his gorilla mask. More Hampton Roads classmates shown in the Bomb’s portrait area—plus some from another class—include Earl Bennett, Bert Bramble, Bill

Our Richmond lunch group, which includes wives and sometimes other family members, gathered June 21 for the biggest turnout we’ve had—16. It was great being together at Buz ‘N’ Ned’s Real Barbecue, although the restaurant was the busiest and noisiest we’ve ever experienced. Attending were Howell Bowen and Rosemary Connelly; Linda and Brooke Doggett; Jack Cunningham; Charlie Hayes; Agnes Kump and her daughter, Sterling Coulbourn, visiting from Charlotte; Susie and John Peters; Paul Royer; Stuart Whitehurst; Jane and Stirling Williamson; and Laura and me.

While at least three of us were taking photos, not a single one was usable! As Stuart put it when he sent his, “Enclosed are some more ghoulish pictures! Anyone over 85 should not be photographed.” Laura and I loved that explanation because it described our photos, too. Stuart and Eleana have moved to a very nice retirement community at 2300 Cedarfield Parkway, Apt. 152, Henrico, VA 23233. Email swwhite5870@aol. com and phone 804-339-0068.

This from Art Carnevale: “Good news. Last week, I had back surgery. Coming out of it. God bless.” You saw Art’s bright yellow golf cart with a big VMI logo on the front in a recent Alumni Review. I’m betting “coming out of it” means “back on the golf course.” Blessings on you, too, Art.

Bob King has, at last, retired. He’s been my ophthalmologist for many years, so I’ll miss seeing him annually and having him tell me I haven’t inherited my mother’s macular degeneration.

Or at least it has not appeared yet. He also knows a great deal about nutrition and advised me to take Areds2 for general eye health. Bob was the first person I heard use the word inflammation, and now I hear or read it frequently. Enjoy your retirement, Bob.

I got in touch with Tom Smyth’s daughter, Judy

Class of 1958: Lee McCown, Derek McCown ’89, Jack McCown ’24, and Allen McCown ’11 show their VMI rings on Jack’s graduation day.

Class of 1958: Lee McCown (right) with his grandson, Jack McCown ’24, a distinguished graduate with Institute Honors, in front of 1958’s Cameron Hall sign.

Stoots, to check on the old Marine. She reports that “Tom is enjoying his friends and all the activities at The Plaza at Waikiki.” Tom has three children, six grandchildren, and six great-grandchildren, and he sent me this greeting: “Aloha from Honolulu!”

Judy says, “Dad is about the same, very shortterm memory, but he knows us and is very happy! He has a positive outlook! We are thankful for that!

“As a family, we lived in the Falls Church/Fairfax area a long time. Moved to Hawaii in 1974. Dad retired from the Marines in 1978. He worked for the state of Hawaii until retirement and stayed there. Our parents divorced in 1979. We all returned to Virginia for college. We are very proud of Dad’s graduation from VMI!” Tom’s children besides Judy, who lives in Florida, are Steve in Kansas and Susan in California.

We stay in close touch with Sally, wife of Sam Witt. You enter her beautiful house under a sign saying, “Witt’s End.” She stays upbeat and in close touch with sons Clay and Sam IV and their families. I go to Hollywood Cemetery frequently to commune with our Sam, and I remember him with fondness and respect. I also stop to salute Frank Norvell, whose greeting to all his BRs was always this same warm exclamation: “My favorite brother rat!”

We are hearing great things from Jeanie Woodman, who was married to Jan Woodman. She’s living in a spacious Alexandria, Virginia, condominium she loves with enclosed porches, where she tends her orchids and African violets. She has some nursing care but still cooks her meals and, as you can see from the adjacent photo, remains as elegant and beautifully dressed as ever. Jeanie very much enjoys reading our class notes and remembers so many of you fondly. In her most recent note, she did some bragging about her grandchildren, including Ben Johnson, son of daughter Alexandra Johnson. Ben brought Jan to his last reunion, so some of you have met him. Despite Jan’s lobbying for VMI, Ben went to Gettysburg College, perfect for someone with an intense interest in the American Civil War. He graduated and is now working on his Ph.D.

In the same mail delivery as Jeanie’s card, Laura received a gift that Jeanie described as “fussy flowered slippers.” Laura loves them and says they look like “bouquets for the feet.” Both of us keep saying we’re going to begin the custom of removing outdoor shoes when you come in. Now Laura has a big incentive.

Roy Palmer—who my dear wife says is like me (I’m flattered) in that he “guzzles from the Fountain of Youth”—sent this update: “Attended

Class Notes

a grand niece’s wedding in Winter Park, Florida, a couple of weeks ago. I insist that they call me Uncle Roy versus Great-uncle Roy. Nothing much new happening here. Standing by for a flight test of a Southwest 737 in Houston and a Korean Air 777 in Korea later in the year.” Keep those wings polished, Roy. And keep passing that yearly physical! I think you are the last guy in the class still “working,” although I know you’ve never thought of flying as a job.

Roy also continues to remind me of his advice after the nightmare that led to my flying out of bed into that marble top table: “I’m still waiting for confirmation that you’ve installed a safety belt in your bed,” he says. Not yet, Roy, but the menacing table is now much farther from the bed.

I also heard from Don Norman, who surprised us by showing up from California with his son for our 65th Reunion. They were both great fun to be with. He, too, responded to my emailed health report where I said, “Happy to report that my brain scan revealed no blood and apparently no erosion of the brain, although remembering names, nouns, etc., is not getting any better.” Don said, “Glad there was no erosion.” Keep in touch, Don. Great to see you both in Lexington.

This next statement hints at our ages: Laura has been to six memorial services in the past month or so; I’ve been to five. All were true celebrations of lives well lived, and we left them feeling uplifted. One was for my Jefferson Senior High School (in Roanoke) friend, E. Lee Showalter. I used to call him ELee, and he called me ALee. His service was in the beautiful old (founded in 1710) Manakin Episcopal Church on a picturesque country road in Powhatan County, Virginia. We were delighted to run into Linda and Brooke Doggett, who are members. Linda said she wondered what had brought us there until she heard the minister say the word “Roanoke.”

Richmond was just named “Best Town to Visit in 2024” by CNN Travel. Laura and I have to pinch ourselves to believe all the changes for the better that have come about in our city since we retired 15 years ago. Museums have undergone some of the biggest changes—expansions in buildings, landscapes, exhibits, and events.

Our neighborhood, the Fan District, is within walking distance of the two biggest: The Virginia Museum of Fine Arts (now usually called VMFA), which currently has seven galleries filled with works on loan collected by Jordan and Tom Saunders, and the Virginia Museum of History and Culture (formerly known as the Virginia Historical Society). We can also walk to a half-dozen smaller ones: The American Civil War Museum (with the names Jordan and Tom Saunders on

a beam that appears to be holding up the second floor); The Valentine, the museum of Richmond’s history; the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia, housed in an 1895 armory built for an African-American militia; and the Poe Museum, which has the largest collection of artifacts related to Edgar Allen Poe, who was raised in Richmond.

Also a walkable distance away is the Virginia Holocaust Museum, which tells interesting and uplifting stories of Holocaust survivors who settled in Richmond. It has a small representation of the courtroom where the Nuremberg trials took place in 1948. Jan Woodman, who was entering his teens then, lived in that city when his Army officer father had a large role in the logistics, such as the housing and feeding of hundreds, if not thousands, of people involved with the trials.

I’m sorry I could find no obituary to share, but BR John Lewis Drake—whose nickname at VMI was “Bear,” died April 10, 2024, in Watchung, New Jersey. According to our Bomb, he matriculated from Irvington, New York, was a chemistry major and was in Air Force ROTC, Judo Club, Officer of the Guard Association, intramurals, and the 2nd Class football team, Yankee Club, and Armed Forces Club.

He was described this way: “The stamp of success has marked John’s progress through VMI. Being able to adapt himself to any particular situation is a trait John has always possessed. Extra activities (athletic and scholarship) have all been dominant in Johnny’s life at VMI. He is always on top or with spirit, courage, and determination,

Class of 1958: Laura Cameron (left) with Don and Carolyn Cuthrell in Williamsburg, Virginia.

striving to get there. Johnny has no worries, for success will continue to follow him.” I haven’t found any record of John being in contact with VMI since graduation. If any of you would like to share memories of him, please send them to me. RIP, John.

BRs often bluntly ask me, “How many of us are left?” There are 117 known deaths, and the best I can estimate as of August 2024 is 58 alive! Rest in peace, BRs who have left us, and to those still alive, I’ll quote Hunter Clarke: “Continue to march.”

Lee

1959

We had two stalwarts pass away this quarter: Mary Alice Marley and Dave Goode. Mary Alice passed away May 31. Ron and Mary Alice Marley were two of my favorite people, always fun to be around. On our way back from Hilton Head last October, we stopped at Fleming Island and had lunch with Mary Alice. She looked great and did not complain of any illness, but then again, she never complained about any of her health problems. May she rest in peace and enjoy the company of Ron once again. Her funeral was held June 19 at her church in Fleming Island. She was buried at the Jacksonville National Cemetery

next to Ron. My daughter, Colleen, and I drove up for the memorial service and stayed around for the reception to offer condolences to the family. VMI was represented by me and Dennis Witt ’69 Received a very nice note from Tracy Watts and Christine Frederick, Ron and Mary Alice’s daughters, thanking the whole VMI Class of 1959 for being such good friends with their parents and appreciating all the help and friendship we gave to their parents. They said Ron and Mary Alice loved spending time with their brother and sister rats.

Dave passed away Sept. 27 in Bradenton, Florida, where he was living in a retirement home. I have talked to Dan Goode, Dave’s son, and he tells me that Dave will be buried in Arlington National Cemetery. As you are aware, that could be up to a year or more away. No information as to whether a memorial service will be held either here or in Richmond. Dave did not want anyone to know how sick he was, but he had a lot of bad things going on, including cancer. Please keep the families of Mary Alice and Dave in your prayers.

Max Guggenheimer called Lee several weeks before Dave passed away to get his telephone number. He called Dave, and they had a nice conversation. They reminisced about their basketball trip to West Virginia, where Dave and Lee played against Jerry West. They also talked about Vietnam and the lunch they had with Binnie Peay ’62 and his wife, Pam, at their home when he commanded Central Command, as well as the luncheon we had for him in Richmond. Max said that he really cared for Dave and thanked God for having made the call.

Got a nice note from Agnes Inge Carter telling me how proud she was to have both a rat, Harry Inge, Rat Mass of ’25+3, and a football co-captain, Thomas Inge ’25. If you are looking for him, Tommy wears No. 55, the same number that Jerry Borst wore in ’59. Both are sons of Tom Inge ’89 and grandsons of Tommy Inge and Agnes. She was delighted to attend the ’59 reunion in an abbreviated way, but she did march in for the grand old yell. Agnes is hoping to see brother and sister rats at a football game!

Bobby Ross attended the VMI Football Reunion of all former players at VMI not long ago and was introduced as the oldest former player attending. Quite an honor! They also introduced the youngest former player! Bobby was able to spend time with Collin Shannon ’26, the player our class is sponsoring. He is our starting quarterback for this season. We open Thursday night, Aug. 29, at William & Mary. Our rivalry with them and Richmond is being renewed! By the way, Collin is a pretty good student. He has a GPA of 3.7, and his hometown is Sevierville, Tennessee, right next to

Dollywood. Bobby and Alice just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary June 13 and spent a week with their family at Hilton Head to celebrate it. Congratulations to you both. You belong to a club with very few members.

Tex and Emily Carr are finally cruising again, in the Caribbean, of course. The best one was to St. Maarten followed up by one onboard the Norwegian Jade. No trip is ever complete for Tex and Emily without some kind of anomaly. In this case, Tex scraped his arm on a door and ended up at the ship’s medical services. Thankfully it was nothing serious, and bandages did the trick. It sure is great

Class of 1958: Louisa Valentine McCown, daughter of Lee McCown’s grandson Morgan McCown, on her first birthday.

Shep Shepard

Class of 1959: Tex and Emily Carr on a Caribbean cruise.

Class of 1959: Art Brandriff and Dick Phillippi at Dick’s home in Wytheville, Virginia.

having a nurse at your beck and call 24/7.

Larry and Nancy Wood were happy to see the picture of Larry and his golden retriever, Willow, in the last Alumni Review. Next to Nancy and family members, she is the love of his life and brings him so much joy. Every little boy’s dream is to get to ride in a firetruck, and Larry’s was fulfilled May 1. Their church’s 35-foot flagpole rope broke and getting to the top of that pole to bring it down seemed like an impossible task. Larry asked his neighbor, who just happened to have a firetruck equipped with a 100-foot ladder, for some help. Piece of cake, and Larry got to ride the boom up to reach the flag.

John and Pat Van Kesteren are doing great. Their son, Logan, and John recently had the pleasure of having lunch at the beautiful home of Conrad Hall ’66 the last time John was in Virginia. Conrad and John share a property line at the west side of his farm, but his farm is also next to a couple, both retired U.S. Navy, whose son, Alex Oshirak ’20, is a Navy pilot carrying on the family tradition. When Pat and John bought the homesite on the Eastern Shore of Virginia 44 years ago, and in a very rural area, the furthest thing he imagined would be the good fortune of eventually having their two closest neighbors with direct VMI connections. Meeting up with Conrad, with his extensive knowledge of history, is always something to look forward to. Indeed, John never minimizes the privilege it is to share moments with someone of his standing. So far, he has had one meeting with Alex when we went over to a shooting range John maintains on another farm but looking forward to many more times. This range is very modest, but it is well isolated and safe for any kind of shooting, including longrange and clays. Holland Bell ’62, who was John’s dyke, is somewhat of a regular, and he remembers Sal Vitale ’61, along with his grandkids. He enjoys inviting any VMI folks, if they happen to be passing through the Eastern Shore, to check with him if they would be interested in some target practice. Email: jnp.vankesteren@ gmail.com. If he is in Virginia, it shouldn’t be any problem to make it to the range on short notice or jam out on a few bluegrass songs. On another thought, John can’t help but comment on the tragic death of Capt. Jack Casey ’19, who was killed along with four other Marines in a CH-53E crash in February this year. It was

heartwarming to read that a memorial was held in his honor at the school. He doesn’t believe it’s possible to grasp entirely the enormous sacrifices that have been and continue to be made in terms of human life to secure the country’s freedom. Capt. Casey’s untimely death reminds us of the unfortunate reality that we incur an unpayable debt for the time we live free here on earth.

Shay Booth has bought a golf villa at Independence Golf Resort in Midlothian, Virginia, located just across the James River from where Jerry and Shay lived for 47 years. Downsizing is

quite a chore and sad. She has closed on her new home and will have closed on their home by the time these notes reach you. She has some leeway for moving into the new home and closing on their old home, which she needs. Her children are pleased with the decisions she has made in getting rid of excess. Her new house is maintenance free—yard and exterior. HOA has many amenities. The house is not backed up to the golf course but across the street. She did not want to be right on the golf course. Two of the neighbors played golf with Jerry through the years, and another longtime friend lives on a neighboring street. She likes the idea of having individual houses and yards and plenty of outdoor walking trails, pool, and club house. She and Jerry have belonged to the country club for years, and at least for now, she is keeping the membership. Shay has had five back surgeries and just recently has been given the go-ahead to take full swing; however, she is waiting until she gets moved before venturing a full swing, just in case. Being originally from Albemarle County, she sees some news from former classmates that attended VMI.

Harry and Ann Ray are as happy as two oldtimers can be; Ann got a clean bill of health from cancer. She is free for 2 years and now only has to get check-ups every 4 months. Harry just had a nuclear stress test, which showed a blood flow problem where you must be between 40-65%, and he was at 38%. He had an echocardiogram completed and passed with a 45% rate. He went home and played nine holes of golf. Hang in there, Harry, and congratulations to Ann.

Larry Wood writes that 65 years ago, when we were cadets, we served on the flag detail that raised and lowered the United States and Virginia state flags. Now, as veterans, we take great pride in flag ceremonies on Memorial Day, Veterans Day, and the Fourth of July. We use veterans’ flags that once were draped over the coffins of our nation’s finest. See picture of Larry, retired Air Force, and John Rapanos, retired Army.

Noland Pipes says that, at our age, we are tempted to share reports of our ailments, but by God’s grace, we can report many blessings, as well. Noland and Mary are excited by the anticipation of their first great-granddaughter, Mary Margaret Jordan. She will arrive in October. She will be in Nashville with their oldest grandson, Matthew Noland Jordan, and his

Class of 1959: Shep Shephard and his family on an eco-tour of the St. John’s River in Florida.

Class of 1959: Shep Shepard with Mary Alice Marley’s daughters, Tracy Watts and Christine Frederick, at Mary Alice’s funeral.

wife, Caroline. Nashville is close enough to come and go when they need a fix of love. Matthew and their other grandchildren are doing well. They have a total of six. Granddaughter Emily Jordan is working remotely in London with a company in Memphis and loving every minute of it. She travels most weekends all around Europe and loves the adventures. She’s living the life of her dreams. Daughter Sarah Jordan’s youngest just became engaged to a wonderful man, and she will finish her college years at North Greenville University in South Carolina as Mrs. Joshua Inman. Noland tries to get together with Rusty Loth periodically for lunch, but health and doctor appointments have somewhat slowed that process; however, they keep trying. Noland and Mary are looking at some surgeries in August and September. Mary will have a knee replacement, and Noland will have hernia surgery. Just keep patching and patching, patching their 87-year-old bodies.

Ralph Lawson had lunch with Bobby Ross and John Martin, along with 10 of Bobby’s Lexington retired old VMI friends, a few weeks ago. They are still kicking and hope all remaining brother and sister rats are, too. Ralph and Janice Rae are enjoying senior living retirement.

Rusty Loth feels bad that he does not have much to share for this issue of the Alumni Review. He recently talked to BR Pipes, and he and Mary both have some major surgery scheduled real soon, so they will have to postpone their next que and brew gathering for a little while longer. Mary had been

doing most of the driving lately; however, Noland is back in the saddle again as Mary’s knee and back make it very difficult for her to drive. Rusty feels that he is getting too old to have to wait so long for their que and brew. Next thing you know, he will have to be spoon-fed. Brew is OK through a straw, but not BBQ—clogs up the &*%$ straws!

Nowell Loop writes that since our super 65th Reunion in April, he and Sallie have seen a grandson graduate from the University of Minnesota with a chemical engineering degree and be accepted into the MBA program at the University of Colorado. We both had successful cataract surgery in the summer and anxiously await our second great-grandson any day now.

Peggy Smith Colville reports not much happening in her life, but she would love to take another VMI riverboat cruise, this time in America. She and Al will be going on one in September with American Cruise Line. We have been cruising with them for some time and really like it. I have to agree. Ann and I cruised with them a few years ago, and although it was during the pandemic, we really enjoyed it. I think it would be a great idea to do one. Peggy loves reading all about the doings of the VMI ’59ers.

Art Brandriff tries to visit Dick Phillippi whenever he is in Virginia. Attached is a picture from last May. Art said the 65th Reunion sounded like it was a great success. He wished he and Jenny could have made it. You were missed, my friend. All is well here; I just had an echo exam and got a pretty good report; there has been some improvement with my heart. Still can’t get my blood sugar under control but still trying. My girls are keeping me busy with eco tours, antiquing, and a lot of eating out. Next month, we plan to go to Black Mountain, North Carolina, to visit my son and his family. In October, we will make our annual trip to Hilton Head to enjoy the area and great food. Keep those cards and letters coming in.

Yours in the Spirit, Shep

1960

James A. Smith III

Greetings from Lexington, Virginia. No notes since May 15. I went to the Memorial Parade on the 15th at VMI, the “old” New Market Parade. As most of you know, the parade now celebrates all VMI alumni who died during all wars

and conflicts. As always, it’s a moving ceremony, done very tastefully and appropriately. On May 16, the Institute held its graduation ceremony and now all is quiet on the post.

I begin these notes on a sad note as I report our Brother Rat John “Nick” Hester passed away May 28 in Richmond. Ruth and I attended his service in Reidsville, North Carolina, yesterday, June 1. Nick was buried with military honors. His lengthy obituary is as follows: “Hester, John Nicholas III, of Midlothian, Virginia, passed away Sunday, May 26, 2024. Born into the family of Cecilia Scott Hester and Doctor William Shepherd Hester, John grew to be a man of warm and strong character, touching the lives of everyone he met. John was a man of many interests, with an early love of the outdoors that was evident as a young child. He enjoyed the challenges of being a Boy Scout, earning his Eagle Scout (scouting’s highest honor) rank at the young age of 13 and being elected by his troop into the Order of the Arrow (scouting’s national honor society). He enjoyed creating his beautiful gardens, a testament to his patience and care. He bred new daylily varietals and was a tender of orchids, finding happiness in the blooms and sharing that infectious joy with others. His daily walks were more than exercise; they were an opportunity to bird watch and connect with neighbors and friends, embodying his belief that no one was a stranger, just a friend he had not met. A standout athlete, John shined on the basketball courts and football fields of Reidsville High School in North Carolina. He was a member of the 1954 undefeated state championship football team and an exceptional player on both offense and defense as a lineman, leading to his induction into the Reidsville High School Football Hall of Fame in September 2023. His passion for sports was matched only by his dedication to honor, which brought him to the Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia. His love for VMI was profound, and it was there that he honed not only his mind but also his singing voice as a proud member of the VMI Glee Club. Following his graduation in 1960, he accepted a commission as second lieutenant and served as an officer in the U.S. Army at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. He later earned a Master of Commerce from the University of Richmond. His acumen in finance and land management was well-respected, and he approached each venture with the same integrity and enthusiasm that he did in all aspects of his life. John’s greatest love was his family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Dr. William Shepherd Hester, Cecilia Scott Hester, and his brother, Hugh Scott Hester. He is survived by his wife, Donna Clark Hester; his twin daughters,

Class of 1959: Larry Wood and John Rapanos raise the U.S. flag in Las Vegas, Nevada, in summer 2024.

Tracy Leigh Hester and Lynne Hester Leggett (Stephen); his cherished grandchildren, Megan Leigh Leggett and Nicholas William Leggett; and his niece and nephews, William Shepherd Hester II (Linda), Elizabeth Scott Daly (Steve), and Hugh Scott Hester II. Each of them carries forward his legacy of kindness, generosity, and song. The family will receive visitors at Bliley’s on Hull Street Friday, May 31, from 6–8 p.m., and Wilkerson’s Funeral Home Saturday, June 1, at 12:45–1:45 p.m. in Reidsville, North Carolina, with interment following at 2 p.m. at Greenview Cemetery in Reidsville.”

Sadly, June 9, our Brother Rat Bo Bowles passed away in Richmond. His obituary in the Richmond Times-Dispatch is as follows: “Bowles, Bowlman Tarleton Jr., died June 9, 2024, at age 86.He was predeceased by his parents, Judge Bowlman Tarleton Bowles and Gladys Hasselle Bowles. He is survived by his wife of 62 years, Nancy Fleshman Bowles; his sons, Bowlman T. Bowles III (Kamila), Andrew H. Bowles (Kirsten), and Churchill G. Bowles (Karin); and his seven grandchildren, Anne R. Bowles, Churchill G. Bowles Jr., Bowlman T. Bowles IV, Robert W. Bowles, Coleman T. Bowles, Margaret F. Bowles, and Andrew P. Bowles. He was also predeceased by his brother, Dr. Robert H. Bowles of Charleston, South Carolina, who is survived by his wife, Elizabeth H. Bowles, and his sister, Kimball B. Lauritzen of Omaha, Nebraska, and her husband, Bruce R. Lauritzen. Bo was born December 21, 1937, in Richmond, Virginia, but grew up in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He attended the Virginia Military Institute (1960), where he played football and was a member of the rifle team. After graduating VMI and accepting a commission in the Army as an infantry officer, he attended Vanderbilt Law School (1965). Upon graduation, he joined the law firm of Mays & Valentine, where he practiced for 15 years, leaving in 1980 to form his own practice, which he developed with his son, Churchill, into Bowles Affiliates. Mr. Bowles served as chair of the American Bar Association Committee on Income Taxation of Trusts and Estates and was a member of the American College of Trust and Estate Counsel and Virginia and Tennessee Bar Associations. After his family, especially his beloved grandchildren, his church, and his law practice, Bo loved golf. He was a longtime member of the Shankers and Knockers golf groups. Mr. Bowles was a member of the Richmond Cotillion, the Commonwealth Club, the Country Club of Virginia, and the Ocean Forest Golf Club in Sea Island, Georgia.

“Mr. Bowles served on the board of the

Foundation at Virginia Military Institute and, in lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the VMI Foundation, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, Virginia 24450. Burial services at Hollywood Cemetery will be private with a celebration of life reception to be held at a future date.”

I spoke with Mike Moss about Bo’s passing. I also spoke with Mike regarding a print of Stonewall Jackson owned by our late Brother Rat Bob Gianella. The print is now in possession of Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System director, for his disposition. On June 18, Gary Kramer had his next birthday. I spoke with Gary. He is well. He was going to dinner with family to celebrate. On June 22, Bill King and Phil Shiner celebrated their next birthday. I did not get to speak with Bill. He got voicemail wishes. I did speak with Phil, who was in upstate New York at a music festival. He sounded great and feels well. I recently received a phone call from our Brother Rat Tom Beavers’ daughter regarding his passing in fall 2023. Tom was at VMI for only 1 year, but he attended many reunions, including our last. I’m sorry I’ve lost his obituary.

On June 28, John Olsen celebrated his latest birthday. I spoke with John, who is feeling well. He used to be quite a marksman with a shotgun, but he says he has put his guns away.

On July 3, Gerry Hermann celebrated his next birthday. Email contact.

On July 6, Doc Mallory celebrated his next birthday. I didn’t get a chance to speak to Doc, as I was in Iceland. Ruth and I were on a cruise around Iceland July 3–13. We had 50-plus degree temperature days but no darkness. A beautiful country.

On Aug. 5 and Aug. 6, Bill Ennis and Frank Fox celebrated their next birthdays, respectively. I was unable to contact Frank. Bill got a voicemail wish.

On Aug. 7, Mike Pitt celebrated his next birthday. Mike graduated with ’61 and attends the ’61 events. On Aug. 11, Henry Shirley celebrated his next birthday. I spoke with him, and he is well. Henry is planning to come to our reunion next year. On Aug. 12, Walt Witschard celebrated his next birthday and, true to form, had a dram of his best scotch. He will be at our reunion.

This brings this edition of our class notes, such as they are, to a close. I’m sorry to report no photographs. Please take some pictures. I also want to encourage you to send me short notes as to how and what you are doing. As always, we want to continue to support our class awards, the Bayliss and Tumlinson awards. Please call me with any questions. I’d love to talk to you.

Stay safe and healthy. As always, please know it is a privilege to be your class agent.

Jimbo Smith

Sal Vitale Jr.

Where does the time go? It seems like I just sent my notes in for publication. My memory is not as good as it used to be because in the last Review, I mentioned that Sue and I had dinner in Williamsburg with Respess, Wetsel, and Gaylia Hudgins and missed mentioning Stu and Sylvia Woodcock. Sylvia made all the arrangements for that wonderful dinner. Sylvia is a great organizer, and for many years, she and Stu organized the Williamsburg Christmas luncheons, and they were great. Sorry again. May was a crazy month for the Vitales. Sue dislocated her right hip, and we called 911 for a trip to the hospital. The ER doctor put the hip back in place, and I watched. No fun! Exactly a week later, Sue again dislocated her hip, and again, we called 911 and went to the hospital. Same terrible, painful procedure, and we went home. Our orthopedic doctor finally agreed that we could not wait until October as planned for a hip reconditioning and scheduled it for the first available time. Sue’s hip was replaced 25 years ago in St. Louis, and we learned that spare parts for her hip are hard to find. Great! On the day of the operation, we went to the hospital to check in, and the nurse said why you are here so early. We responded that’s the time we were told. She said the operation had been delayed because the hip replacement parts had not arrived yet. Sue was prepped and the doctor came by to talk to us about how sorry he was that we were not notified about the delay. While he was with us, his phone rang, and the message was Sue’s parts were at the loading dock, and he left us to retrieve them. Thank God it all worked out well, and Sue has a reconditioned hip and is in therapy for the next several months to build the strength back.

Not to let Sue have anything over me, I had a few trips to the ER. My problem is my thin skin (yes, I do have thin skin), and it bruises and cuts easily. My normal procedure for clotting the blood was not working this time. The ER doctor said he had to cauterize the seven areas where the wound would not clot. He said he needed a few minutes to heat up the irons so he could close the wound. I was shaking and really believed his hot irons statement, so when the doctor came in with a needle containing silver nitrate and some other stuff to cauterize the wound chemically, my blood pressure dropped 20 points. It took over a month

for the wounds to heal. Our granddaughter, Gaetana, finally graduated from culinary school and received an associate degree. She accepted a position as a management trainee in Wegman’s deli and bakery department and loves it. In June, our renovation was almost complete except for punch list items. I met with the contractor and had set up a schedule, and later that week, I received a letter from the contractor saying he was closing his business immediately. I filed a claim with the Maryland Builders Association in hopes they will assist in paying for another contractor to finish the work. I thought, “what else can happen,” and I took another trip to the ER because a scrape on my shin got infected. Oh, well! We finally connected with doctors to take care of almost all of our body parts, and visits consumed much of June and July. Due to my cuts and bruises and Sue’s operation, we have not been able to take advantage of our daughter, Barbara’s, pool. Finally, on Aug. 4, we took a dip when the thermometer rose to 100 degrees and enjoyed it. We needed to have concrete repairs on our driveway and other areas, and the contractor who performed the work did a good job. Sue turned 83 Aug. 11, and we had a birthday party at our house. All of our children and grandchildren were there. This was the first time they were able to have the entire family available, and we really enjoyed it. As we look forward to September, we plan to be in Williamsburg for the golf outing and Arlington Cemetery for Hershell Murray’s interment and, in October, lunch at the Swinging Bridge Restaurant. We do have more doctor appointments scheduled and, who knows, maybe a few more trips to the ER. From what I hear, many of you have similar stories. Getting old is not for the weak.

In July, Sue and I attended a lunch with Ray Hanlein, John Tharrington, and Spike and Mary Callander. Spike is not in the best of health and has dialysis three times a week and heart issues.

The Callanders had a family meeting, and everyone agreed with Spike that he had to have this very difficult heart procedure. It was planned for September. Please keep them in your prayers.

John Tharrington finally added a wrought iron handrail to the stairs leading to the front door. Yeah! John talked to Gloria Coen. Gloria said she had to place Jerry in a rehab facility because he kept falling down, and she could manage the situation. Carl and Becky Hirsch are doing well. The Hirsches undertook a remodeling job and are very pleased with the outcome. Ben Lynch just moved to an assisted living facility, Harbor’s Edge, in Norfolk. Tom Whalen moved from independent living in Virginia to assisted living in Wilmington, North Carolina. Tom has a daughter

living in Wilmington, and she wanted dad nearby. Dude Copenhaver sold his house and so did Lee Crow, and together they bought a house in The Villages. From what I hear, they are both very happy. Roy and Nancy Whitehouse moved to an independent retirement community (The Inn at Garden Plaza) in Colorado Springs. They are still in good shape, have their own car, and are free to go and do whatever. Molly Popp had a wonderful trip to California, where she saw her brother and his family. Molly said she got her fill of really good Mexican food. Back in Wisconsin, she stays

busy quilting with her friends and is well. Tom and Annett Jones said he knows it is spring because Annett pulled out all of the driveway markers used for the snowplow. Tom’s Parkinson’s disease is increasing, and as long as he uses his walker, he can get around. That nasty disease is affecting his face, and he has difficulty speaking and swallowing food. Getting around is no problem for Larry and Jeri Wetsel. They are always on the move and recently spent 2 weeks on a Viking ship touring the Great Lakes. Larry said it was fascinating. Larry’s daughter lives in Montana, and he takes every opportunity he can to visit the grandkids. Dick Huneycutt called to say hello. He is still in good shape. George Henning calls every so often, and I’m happy to tell you that he is in good health, drives, and enjoys living in his independent living facility. Shirley Hartford finally sold her house in California and is now in Tennessee. She now experiences terrible storms and the potential for tornadoes. After the last storm, Shirley said to her daughter, “Is this way to announce, ‘Welcome to Tennessee?’” Wyatt Durrette and Bill Braithwaite met halfway between Annapolis and Urbanna for lunch at Captain John’s Crab House. Wyatt said we picked up as though our last conversation occurred the day before. They both enjoyed the time together and are determined to do it again. Wyatt is on the alumni board, and hopefully he will help straighten things out. Bill and Connie Nelms are still waiting for their independent living place at Brandermill Woods, as it is a very popular place. It looks like we won’t be moving until the end of the year at the earliest. Bill Maurer has become a prolific writer. At the annual meeting of the New York Masonic Grand Lodge, Bill Maurer received the first rendition of an award bearing his name, “The C.F. William Maurer Award for Outstanding Achievement in Masonic Research and Studies.” Should you have an opportunity to go to the Robert R. Livingston Masonic Library, you will be proud of his contributions. Joe and Mary Ann Lisiecki are doing OK. Mary Ann is still recovering from her fall. Joe attended a family get-together at his son’s house (the retired Marine) and had a wonderful time.

Again this year, the entire Browning family headed to Saratoga for the racing. Hill is already planning next year’s trip. Hill is also undertaking a major renovation and expansion of the downstairs bedroom. He said if the hurricanes are kept at bay, chances are the project will finish on time. Pete Roberts said he and Carol just missed Sue and me in St. Maarten by a day or two. We have a mutual friend, Mr. Bob at Kay’s Jewelry, where we both go to purchase (unnecessary) jewelry at

Class of 1961: Suellen and Bob Reitz on a Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise aboard the America West in Portland, Oregon, in August 2024.

Class of 1961: Sandra Coleman and David Harbach at the Fairmont Château Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, in August 2024.

a wonderful price. Elaine Werner (Don Wilkinson’s widow) says she misses Don terribly, and so does Don’s dog, Rockbridge. She enjoys receiving and reading the VMI Review. Jim and Johanna Needham were visiting their daughter in Charlestown, Rhode Island, and were out shopping when they saw a man with a VMI shirt. They stopped to say hello, and he was Patrick J. Griffin ’80, the VMI Alumni Association Region VIIII director. Jim Needham is a very considerate person. He sent me a substantial contribution for the class flower fund. Thank you! On a trip to Wilmington, North Carolina, David Lang ’68 saw a guy with a VMI hat. It was our Fred Ayers. At the meet your midshipman weekend at the U.S. Naval Academy, a mid called out to me, “1961, really?” His name is Kelly, VMI ’27, now NA ’28. Paul Johnston reported that Danya Redd, Bill Redd’s wife, passed. Lou and Pris Shuba are doing OK. Pris is recovering from a hip surgery, and Lou has a few heart issues and a lack of stamina, and this really upsets him. Gettysburg has been very dry, and Lou said his vegetable garden was weeds. Storm Debby finally brought the rain. Lou keeps up with Dick Weede, who is doing OK, as is Bill Haeberlein. You might remember Bill fell before he moved from Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, and broke his hip. It was replaced, and his therapy is finished. Bill lives in a gated community, sees his girls, grandkids, and great-grandchildren often, and enjoys working with the HOA (smile). Howard Dyer is doing well, so I have been told. I spoke to Don Kern, and he is doing just OK. Being alone is getting to him. Don said the Ibbis divorce is final. Ashby and Sandra Taylor are doing great, all things considered. Ashby makes his rounds on the telephone checking to see how brother rats are, and when he crosses the Chesapeake Bay, stops in to see Joyce and Bill Gibbings. Bill’s condition has not changed, and he still enjoys a beer with friends. Ashby’s interest is much appreciated. Dorsey Pender moved from the house he and Madonna lived in after her passing. Dorsey still drives for Uber. Bob Tyson’s son, Tyson Junior, sent me a video of his grandfather, a West Point graduate who was stationed at Pearl Harbor during the attack. Our brother rat, Bob, was interviewed by a reporter about his experience during the raid as he was also there. Very interesting.

Bill and Sandra Fout are back in Frederick for the summer. Bill said Sandra is improving. Sue and I look forward to seeing them before they go West. Larry and Joanne Respess are in good shape. I miss my occasional Friday visits with Larry in VB, so we set up a Friday phone call, and we each pour a glass of bourbon and talk for

an hour. Larry has become an expert in non-stock corporations. Every so often, I get a chatty email from Harrison and Terry Fridley. They are both OK, and Harrison said he is still a bit wobbly but manages to get around. Bob and Jeannie Burks are both coping with orthopedic issues. In addition, Bob is having some leg vein problems, and he might need surgery very soon. Bob and Suellen Reitz had a wonderful trip on the American Cruise Line tour of the Columbia and Snake Rivers and visited several Native American reservations. Bob said the food was outstanding, as was the service.

Jerry Eubank is very proud of his son, Maj. Gen. Christopher Eubank ’91. Chris recently relinquished command of the United States Army Network Enterprise Technology Command. I did listen to video chats with members of his staff and team. They held him in very high regard as a leader.

Dave Thomas said Edwina recovered completely from her foot surgery and her knee replacement and is enjoying being able to run the big zeroturn mower. Dave, on the other hand, went to the emergency room for atrial fibrillation. The doctor did an ablation and installed a pacemaker that should have fixed everything—except it didn’t. Dave’s heart is only functioning at 25% efficiency, and the doctors want it at least 50%. In July, Dave had a heart catheterization procedure via the left anterior descending artery and found it was almost blocked. A stent was inserted, and that greatly improved the blood flow. Frank Oley is coping with similar heart issues and was in poor shape. On June 1, Frank had an ambulance ride to the ICU unit and stayed 4 days. The operation on his heart has improved function from 20% to 40%. Frank is pleased with the progress made in repairing the heart. We were both advised by our heart doctors that if we have a-fib again, a pacemaker will be installed. Tom Phlegar has also undergone an aortic valve replacement using a cow valve. His

Class of 1961: Lee Badgett at Academy Bella Vista in Boulder, Colorado.

Class of 1961: At the Silver Diner in Merrifield, Virginia, in July 2024 are (from left) Ray Hanlein, Sal Vitale, John Tharrington, Spike Callander, Mary Callander, and Sue Vitale.

Class of 1961: The Lisiecki family in Chicago, Illinois, in June 2024. Pictured are Mary Ann, Joe, Marie, Joey, Teresa, and Paul.

recovery was good, and Tom was able to help his grandson with his crossing the Appalachian Trail. I talked to Tom and learned he is planning another skydiving jump for his 85th birthday. Tom will jump with one of his grandsons. I look forward to seeing the pictures of his jump. Tom talked to Barry Orndorff, and Barry is still having a hard time reckoning with his wife’s passing and the doctor’s mistakes causing her death. It is so sad. Paul and Raye Goldman are enjoying small-town living. Paul said the 105 degrees in the shade is not unbearable, as it is dry. He said due to his advanced stages of Parkinson’s, he cannot travel to Hershell’s funeral at Arlington. He wished he could because Paul was close to Hershell and had a few good stories. Paul was godfather to Hershell’s son, Michael. Paul is proud of his son Thomas, who, at age 35, is attending law school. I receive many questions about Lee Badgett, and here is what I know: He still has the same phone number, but he never answers his phone. He is now at The Academy at Bella Vista in memory care in Boulder, and he loves it there. Lee is healthy, and Nancy Pierce, his daughter, sent a picture taken in May as proof of life. Bill and Marci Keech are doing OK. Bill has limited his traveling due to his health. He is in good spirits and sharp as a tack. Dave Harbach and Sandra Coleman had an enjoyable 8-day Canada bus trip with Premier World Discovery. They flew to Calgary, loaded the bus, and toured the Canadian Rockies, Glacier National Park, and more. The food and lodging were adequate, and the scenery unbelievably beautiful.

friend, Betty Jo. Dick was known for his sense of humor, cracking jokes, and loved the camaraderie of his VMI brother rats throughout the years, especially the breakfast crew at Joe’s Inn.

In the summer Journal of the Kappa Alpha magazine, the feature article was on visionary leadership. The article included an abridged biography of Gen. Peay ’62, who was the 20th recipient of the Kappa Alpha Order Award for Distinguished Achievement. Gen. Peay joined a long list of distinguished VMI and KA alumni, to include Gen. George Marshall ’901, Gen. Lemuel Shepherd ’917, John deButts ’936, and Gen. George Patton ’907 (posthumously). Gen. Peay was requested by the convention to deliver formal remarks, and he did. I was sent a copy of the magazine both electronically and snail mail, so I could read the speech, and I did. It was on the mark. Find the article, read it, and I know you will enjoy an “Old Corps” graduate’s remarks. Gen. Peay practices what he preaches: Integrity, civility, and a commitment to excellence. We continue to lose brother rats and wives,

and this past quarter, it continues.

Charles Ratliff Henkle passed April 18, 2023, following a life of service filled with dear friends and a loving family. Following high school, he attended Virginia Military Institute for 1 year and then served in the Air Force as a cartographer stationed in England. Chuck went on to serve in the federal government for over 30 years with the U.S. Geological Survey. While a cartographer with the USGS, he traveled extensively, including two expeditions to Antarctica in 1968 and 1983. Henkle Peak, Antarctica, bears his name.

Barbara Jean LeFon, Charles “Bootsie” LeFon’s wife, passed away peacefully May 31, 2024, with her family by her side. She was a faithful and active member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in Warsaw and sat on various local boards and committees. Barbara Jean was a woman of many talents; her real estate agency, Rivah Realty, was named for her beloved Rappahannock River, and she delighted in finding the perfect home for her clients. Barbara Jean enjoyed traveling, especially to Germany with Bootsie during the Christmas markets and made that trip for many years after Bootsie’s passing.

Danya Burroughs “Dani” Redd passed June 20, 2024, with her daughters by her side. Dani and Bill were married for 60 years. (Bill Redd passed November 2023). Dani was the organist and choir director for 30-plus years at Grace Episcopal Church in Plymouth, North Carolina, and later at St. Luke’s/St. Anne’s Episcopal Church in Roper, North Carolina. She also taught piano and voice in her home. Dani was an organizing member of the Brick House Landing Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution in Plymouth, North Carolina. Bill and Dani Redd are now together, and we lost two Old Corps supporters.

Richard Clayton “Dick” Jarvis Sr. passed on the evening of July 3, 2024. He had a beautiful 61-year marriage to the love of his life and best

He had a lifelong love for baseball, playing in high school, VMI, and the Army. Wyatt Durrette remembers his wonderful VMI baseball stories told at Joe’s. He found great joy in not only coaching his local Little League but also acting as president of Huguenot Little League and helping it to become the organization it is today. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew him, and his legacy will be remembered by his family, friends, and the countless lives he touched.

A celebration of Richard’s life was held in Midlothian, Virginia. Those attending from VMI 1961 were Tom Whalen (Vitale’s rat roommate), Dick Youngblood, Lou Kiger, Rhett Clarkson, Bill Powell, Bill Daniels, and Bill Nelms Stay well, and God bless all of you, our troops, country, and the VMI we once knew. Call a brother rat, especially one you have thought about but keep forgetting to call. Do it now, please!

1962

Edmund R. Strickler

John Mott Robertson

Once again, I have to start off these notes with the information that we have lost another brother rat. I recently learned from the Institute that Ralph O’Harrow passed away Sept. 21, 2022. Ralph came to VMI from Charles City, Iowa, and was a standout on both the indoor and outdoor track teams for our entire cadetship. He went on to MCV after our graduation and became a pharmacist. Tom Bandy and I were in his and Patricia’s wedding. Therein lies a story for a different time and place! Ralph is survived by his wife, Patricia; a son and daughter; his sister; and two grandchildren. Ralph was a good brother rat and friend, and he will be missed. I am also sad to report that Wally Turnage’s wife,

Class of 1961: At Richard “Dick” Jarvis’ funeral at the Woody Funeral Home–Atlee Chapel in Midlothian, Virginia, in August 2024 are (from left) Tom Whalen, Dick Youngblood, Lou Kiger, Rhett Clarkson, Bill Powell, Bill Daniels, and Bill Nelms.

Mary Sue, passed away July 1. Please keep Wally and the family in your prayers.

At the same time, I am also sorry to report that John Spence’s wife, Barbara, passed away Saturday, July 13, after an 8-year battle with Alzheimer’s. Please keep John’s family in your prayers, also.

Just as I was getting ready to send these notes to Lexington, I heard that Norm Halberstadt’s wife, Sharon, passed away Aug. 11, after a long battle with cancer. Please keep Norm and his family in your prayers.

I recently heard from Buck Houston on his birthday. He said it was hard to believe that, as a North Carolina boy, he has spent 60 years in Michigan and Wisconsin and still hates cold weather. He said that after 12 years as town supervisor, he did not run in this spring election.

He and Carol spent 8 days in January in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. They then spent February and March on Merritt Island, Florida. In summer, they spend time in a cabin on the Mississippi in DeSoto, Wisconsin. He is currently organizing a reunion of his Air Force Pilot Training Class 65-C for October. They are looking at a Caribbean cruise in November, and so far, his health is holding up. They have six grandchildren in Southeast Wisconsin and two in the Los Angeles area.

Bob Yearout reported on a big family accomplishment. His granddaughter, Haley Yearout, was hooded at the University of Kansas as a Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia. Another granddaughter, Hanna Yearout, was hooded around the same time at the University of Denver with a Juris Doctorate. Bob and Marcia were able to attend the hooding for Haley but were not able to go to Denver. These two new degrees, along with his son, Robert E. Yearout, being a physician with a specialty in anesthesiology and Bob with a Ph.D. in industrial engineering, make three generations of doctoral accomplishments. I know they are a proud family.

Bob Shropshire wrote on his birthday that he is living in his condo in Myrtle Beach. I am sorry to report that Bob said his wife, Kathy, passed away a little over 3 years ago. They had a great life with each other and traveled through many parts of Europe together. He says he is in reasonably good health and still like to go to bars for a toddy on occasion. As a big accomplishment at our age, he can still stand to put on his underdrawers.

On Memorial Day, George Collins sent me a picture of a 13-star United States flag he flies all the time at his

home in Guilford, Connecticut. As you can see in this picture, it is at half-staff for Memorial Day. It brings to mind for George Jim Rogan, who was company commander of F Company, and Stephen Toth, who went onto the U.S. Naval Academy, and for me, “Dirk” LeMay, who was one of my roommates either our rat or 3rd Class year. I received a nice note from Art Swisher on his birthday. Art was with us our rat year and then went on to West Point. He and Sallie celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary the second week in June. They live in Terra Verde, Florida. The land of endless sunshine. They made the Army their life. He and Sallie and their two sons spent 12 continuous years in Germany, mostly in Heidelberg, having a great time. Art said that although he was with the Class of 1962 for only 1 year, he left his heart at VMI. It is a place he will never forget.

Roberto Gorbea reports he is still in good health, and he and Nellie celebrated their 59th wedding anniversary June 5.

I recently received a call from Joe Weakley. I hadn’t heard from him in some time, and it was certainly nice to talk with him. He and Theresa live in Stanley, Virginia, which is close to Luray. Joe spent 46 years in teaching, of which 42 years were in Warren County and 4 years in Clark County. His last stint at teaching was in elementary physical education. They currently live on a farm with three miniature horses, 20 cats, and one chicken. With the 20 cats, there obviously are not many rodents around. The chicken was a walkon. Their son, Joe Junior, will retire from working with the UPS in August. Joe and Theresa have one grandson and two great-granddaughters. Joe has had some health problems like the rest of us, but to compound that, in 2022, he broke his right femur, and after rehabbing that, he proceeded to break his left femur in 2023 and is now rehabbing that.

Ran Hamner writes he and Allison visited Tony Bueschen and his wife, Norma Jean, in Nashville this past May. Tony attended VMI with us through his 2nd Class year. At that time, he left for medical school at UVA, joining with several other biology majors from the Institute. The trip to Nashville was outstanding. Tony and Norma Jean rolled out the red carpet to their home and the city. Ran and Allison saw the sites, dined in style, met friends, attended a church picnic, and the works. What a wonderful time!

Cal Seybold and his son, Clint Seybold ’92, just completed a “bucket list”

Class of 1962: Cal Seybold (right) and his son, Clint Seybold ’92, during their 2-week trip to visit World War I and II sites across the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany.

Class of 1962: George Collins’ 13-star U.S. flag at half-mast for Memorial Day outside his home in Guilford, Connecticut.

Class of 1962: Bob Yearout with his family at granddaughter Haley’s graduation from the University of Kansas. Pictured are (from left) Bobby Yearout, M.D.; Hanna Yearout, J.D.; Haley Yearout, DNAP; and Bob, Ph.D.

tour of World War I and World War II battlefields June 1–15. They visited the following countries during the tour: The Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Germany. They were scheduled to visit Omaha and Utah beaches June 5–7, 2024, the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, but were preempted by President Biden and other dignitaries. They took precedence over the scheduled tourists, which was closed to them during their visit. Fortunately, there were other events ongoing during that timeframe the dignitaries did not seem to be interested in, e.g., Sainte-Mere Eglise, where the paratrooper, John Steele, hung from a church steeple during the liberation of the first village before D-Day. For a novice military historian, this was a true “bucket list” tour.

Marc Muth reports he’s still undergoing treatment for cancer of his plumbing. He says that, being immortal, he doesn’t have to worry about how cells are being attacked or the consequences. He humors the local medics by going along with what they think is good for him. There are benefits to this. He gets to go to town, he gets to talk to these very nice people, and he gets to take his son out to dinner. The doctors get to confirm that medical school was worthwhile, and it gives meaning to the sacrifices the nurses had to make in order to learn how to treat people like him. He tries to be cooperative, and in doing so, he has been upgraded from “hun” to “darlin’” and sometimes “sweetheart.” I can’t picture Marc as “sweetheart!”

Hughes Burton reports they moved to a little town called Dugspur, Virginia, several years ago. It’s in the mountains on a creek, and they love it. His step-son, Scott Beasley ’16, lives not far away in North Carolina. Scott has two daughters they get to see often. He talks to Bill Mizell and Tom Murphree occasionally. Hughes met his wife, Jodee, in Carroll County close to 20 years ago. She was a world champion horse trainer for 7 or 8 years. Her life as a trainer is quite a story. One of the fun things they have done was to attend a Football Hall of Fame introduction in Canton for a friend of his from Chesapeake, Ken Easley. They both seem to be doing well. Hughes turned 83 recently and, luckily, just doesn’t feel that old.

Sonny Robbins reports he and Betsy moved from their house of 42 years to a retirement community four months ago and have comfortably settled in. It’s only 3 miles from their former home, so they are able to go to the same church, drugstore, and restaurants. Each year, various Virginia schools’ alumni groups get together for a trivia night contest. This year, there were people from UVA, Virginia Tech, JMU, William & Mary, and U of Richmond, and just two from VMI. The other schools had anywhere from six to 20

alumni on their teams, but Paul Clare ’63 and Sonny hung in and came in third! You can’t beat lucky guesses. Their family (three kids and two spouses, plus one boyfriend), and four grandkids were at Sandbridge, Virginia, for a week at the end of June. They have rented the same house there for 12 years in a row, and most had a great time. During the week, both Betsy and Sonny came down with COVID-19 (for the second time), but both only had symptoms like a cold. Paxlovid did a wonderful job of knocking that out. Other than that, they both remain in good health. Sonny is still working. For the last 22 years, he has chaired a Vistage (TEC) Group and has 12 entrepreneurial CEOs with whom he works. He tells his kids he is hanging out with their friends since the average age for the group is 51. Two of the CEOs are West Pointers.

Monty Williams attended the Western Tidewater Chapter back to school party and rat send-off Aug. 3. This is a program that started many years ago for local alumni to meet the incoming cadets and give the parents a chance to meet and mingle before their offspring head to the Institute. This year, there were about 220 attendees, including 39 rats. There were also some current cadets there and some 1st Class cadets who were looking for dykes. There was a table set up for senior alumni and, being a member of ’62, Monty was certainly entitled to sit there. He felt like he was the rat at the table because John St. George ’57, Bill Knowles ’60, and Benji Lynch ’61 were there, also. I hope they didn’t try to strain him! After a BBQ lunch, the new cadets introduced themselves and said what high school they attended, what their major was going to be, and what branch of service they hoped to be in. It was a good time.

Rosser Bobbitt was the rescue squad ambulance driver for a summer camp touch-the-truck event. (See picture with his granddaughter, Helena Bobbitt). Helena and family head to Kuwait shortly, where Rosser and Kate’s son, Max, starts a 2-year gig teaching.

Eldridge Blanton reports he and Erika will be moving to Westminster Canterbury toward the end of August. He understands there is a VMI club there. Tom and Carpie Coulbourn are already established. The Westminster Canterbury facility is independent living, which means no wheelchairs or walkers. In other words, people like them. They see Tom and Carpie at church when they are moved to go.

Pat and Sharon Morrison had an enjoyable visit with Weldon and Nancy Eddins the first weekend in August.

John Anthony sent the following information about the inaugural presentation of the first-ever

Annual John Duke Anthony Award for Exceptional Leadership and Academic Performance. The award presentation came at the end of the National Council on U.S-Arab Relations’ Annual University Student Summer Youth Leadership Internship Program. The program was established by John in 1986 and has more than 800 graduates. The 8-week program runs from mid-May until late July. Each year, an average of 120 students from across the United States and other countries apply for the rigorous program, and 20 are chosen. The successful applicants, most of whom have never been to Washington, D.C., are introduced to life in the nation’s capital and provided full-time professional work experiences at the National Council or one of a dozen sister organizations associated with the program that also specializes in international affairs. An important component of the experience requires the interns to complete a rigorous research and writing program on various themes related to the relationships between the United States and the Arab region, together with the dynamics of the Arab people’s traditions, modernization, and development, Arab culture, economies, politics, societies, national security, and foreign relations. The interns participate in twice-weekly evening seminars at George Washington University. They are introduced to the writings and briefings of and by John and 20 of the world’s foremost authorities on Arabia and the Gulf. The latter region has long been of vital importance to VMI cadets, alumni, and parents. It lies adjacent to Iran, Israel, and Palestine, birthplace of the world’s three monotheistic faiths; it was the anvil of antiquity and the source of sunshine on the classical world. It is also adjacent to the Arabian/Persian Gulf, the Hormuz Strait, the Arabian Sea, the Indian Ocean, the Bad al-Mandeb, the Red Sea, the Suez Canal, and the Mediterranean Sea. In addition, because of where the region is and what it has—the hydrocarbon fuels that power the engines of the world’s economies—it is important to the material well-being of all of humanity. What is more, it is also the one part of the planet to which VMI military alumni and other armed forces personnel have been mobilized, deployed, and involved in mortal combat more than any place else on the planet these past 40 years. The program is the only one of its kind anywhere and is believed to be the least expensive of all summer-long internship programs in the nation’s capital. Interns are provided a $1,500 stipend to help defray the costs of lodging and food during their stay. Brother rats who might be interested on behalf of their grandchildren or other deserving and needy youth of university age and of good standing are invited to apply. For more

information, visit ncusar.org.

George Collins recently tore a rotator cuff. It was the fifth tear. (Slow learner!) They can’t do surgery because it is all mush, according to the doctors. In his circle of friends, only one medical complaint is allowed with a time limit of 30 seconds. So, no swimming and no golf for 3–4 months. George and Maureen took two trips anyway. In early July, they flew from Boston to London, a day flight. Then, on to Porto, Portugal, for a Viking Cruise up the Douro River. They spent 3 days at the Sixth Senses Inn an hour away from Porto which was a first-class spa. Facilities were over the top. Views, food, staff, and the port wine were all excellent. The cruise stopped at many vineyards, including Sanderman, one of the famous ports. All up the river nothing but grapes, grapes, and olive trees. Extra-fine olive oil comes from the area. Needless to say, he sampled 20-, 30-, and 40-year-old port wines. The river cruise ship only carried 99 passengers, and they met some interesting fellow travelers. Not many military veterans, but there were four: A Navy captain from Notre Dame, a Navy pilot, and then with Delta, and a former Marine first lieutenant. There was also a Marine sergeant on board. Considering that only 1% of the U.S. male population has been in the military, it is a sorry statistic. They returned home to their Connecticut home for a few weeks and then embarked with a 14-year-old grandson for a 17-day trip. The first stop was London. The grandson, Alexander C. Collins, attends St. Paul’s School in Baltimore, so they visited St. Paul’s Cathedral in London first. The dedication to U.S. flyers who lost their lives in World War II is something to behold—115,000 casualties. Only one in three airmen survived. The USAA Corps 8th Air Force lost 26,000 men. They visited Westminister Abbey; rode the Big Eye; and visited Churchill’s underground war shelter, his office, and MI5 and MI6 offices down the hall. Rifles are still stacked

Class Notes

in the war room in case German paratroopers got in the shelter. They were lucky to get a private tour and walk around inside the war room and communication room. The date on the wall is Sept. 9, 1945, when the British felt it was finally over. Next, they visited friends in Mykonos and later stayed in the new Athens Riviera area. George has been to Greece at least 15 times, including business trips. An interesting fact about George: He was born George Joseph Fasulas Jr. and carried that name until he was 9, when his father took his mother’s maiden name, Collins. It never bothered George being a quarter Greek, but his father had enough discrimination growing up from the church, then as a 90-day wonder at Fort Benning and in the 3rd Army as an infantry officer. After Greece, they made their way to Doonbeg Golf Club in Ireland. They have taken nine grandchildren to Europe. They can pick a country, but at

the end, they must play a round or two of golf at Doonbeg, where George and Maureen are members. Because of these trips, he missed racing his sailboat, Invicta. It was a big summer, as George hit 84, and he and Maureen celebrated their 61st wedding anniversary.

I will close these notes with a little information about deadlines and publication dates for the Alumni Review. My deadlines for having the notes into Lexington are Feb. 15, May 15, Aug. 15, and Nov. 15. They are very strict about these deadlines. After those four dates I mentioned above, there is a lag time of about 2-and-a-half months before you receive the hard copy of the Alumni Review containing those notes. For example: Notes I send Aug. 15 won’t be in hard copy until the first part of November, so what you are seeing in this issue may have been submitted to me as early as May 16. This means if you send me a submission after Aug. 15, it won’t be sent to Lexington until Nov. 15 and won’t appear in print until around the first week of February. Please try to have any submissions in a couple of days prior to the deadline, so I will have time to edit, etc. This also applies to pictures.

That wraps it up for another quarter. I hope by the time you read this, the Keydets will have won the Southern Conference football championship! In the Spirit, Edmund

William C. Cowardin

Well, guys, if you thought the last class notes were sparse, get a load of what’s here. There has been a little incoming information. Hope that means that everyone is in good health, settled into a routine, and satisfied with old age. Just kidding.

Please keep your humble class agent informed as life treats you to its ever-changing flow. We really are interested in what you are doing and how you are, even though that knee replacement hurt and laid you up for 6 weeks, spoiling your planned trip to the Olympics.

The Tidewater rats lunched in June and are threatening to do so again Aug. 14, the day before these notes are due. June attendees were Fred Lanier, Johnny Mills, Beau Walker, Bill

Class of 1962: Rosser Bobbitt with his granddaughter, Helena Bobbitt.

Class of 1962: John Anthony (center) with the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations’ 2024 graduating class of the Council’s annual University Student National Youth Leadership Development Program.

1963

Bell, Lee Spessard (from afar, as usual), Bob Walton (our organizer), Taz Hubard, Bob Powell, Jim Key, and yours truly. The event was at the Hampton Yacht Club, a venue placed on a permanent arrangement by Tank Amory prior to his passing. The discussion was lively. Similar festivities are expected again on the 14th. Must say that Curleyrat still gets good information, which he graciously passes along. Many thanks.

Met at the periodic Tidewater rats of ’63 lunch Aug. 14 at the Hampton Yacht Club courtesy of our sole surviving club member, Bob Walton. It was a gorgeous sunny summer day at a table arranged in the glass corner of the dining room. Present were Bob Walton, Johnny Mills, Ed Patnesky, Bob Powell, Bill Bell, Jan Gray, Fred Lanier, Jim Key, and Bill Cowardin. Taz Hubard and Beau Walker, serial attendees, were missing.

Despite the urging of yours truly, little response was offered, which would enhance the knowledge of our readers. Bell admitted he was still putting fatback in the snap beans. Gray’s yard died despite $300 worth of seeding. Lanier’s wife was in Europe. Key got held up on the bridge. Rusty Evans and his wife, Ann Gordon, are living at the Chamberlain with the Waltons, Bob and Mary Landon. Gray remembered Hokie patrol at the Institute in the weeks running up to the Thanksgiving football game. Politics was lightly discussed, but there were no fisticuffs. Trains and airlines made up some of the subject matter.

The other missives were on a more somber and controversial note.

No effort here to demote or promote expressed opinions of the issues of the day, but always good to sound off to your class agent. I hope my responses are neutral and serve to inform classmates of what we’re thinking about.

The next class notes will be shortly after the election. Wonder what that will be like.

Pete Brunel and Bill “Sleepy” Moore in Canada. Smiling with cane. Hope international relations with our northern neighbor were not disturbed. Haven’t heard that they didn’t let them back in. Looked like they were having fun. They traveled for 6 days from Vancouver: Whistler, Quesnell, Jasper, Lake Louise to Kamloops, and back. Pete extolled the food on the train and at evening hotels. After request, he finally sent pics with higher resolution. The resolution was not originally high enough for publication.

contracting COVID-19 on the tour but survives.

Naturally, those on the gim came up. Lee Spessard, who is a regular attendee, was said to be ailing sufficiently that he did not attend. Mills reported on the absence of lunch among the Richmond contingent. Apparently, Curleyrat requested volunteers to organize the periodic lunches, and there were none. He is considering simply announcing a time and place and eschewing reservations as a device to reduce the work involved in staging same. Hope they find a solution.

Bob Powell and Tina took a Viking Cruise to Iceland in July. He reports it was cold, wet, and windy. Bob recommends the Iceland tour but suggests a land tour out of Reykjavik rather than on a ship. My daughter did the land tour several years ago and described it as “magical.” Bob reported

Bunny Reynolds reported in just before deadline. Says he and Judy are enjoying “independent living,” having left behind the joys of cutting grass, home repair, food prep, etc.

Good news that his lung cancer treatment is going well—only one pill a day.

Bunny also reports that the Tucker Oliver Class of 1963 Scholarship continues to grow and support more cadets. The fund value as of June 30, 2024, was $647,900. There were 59 donors in the past year and 219 gifts. Bunny would like to see $1 million.

He hopes to be in Lexington for Founders Day in November. Hope to see you there.

Heard from Walt Kleine three times. First was a notice that “golf is good for you.” All of us who play know that’s a crock, but it is always good to hear from Walt. I think the Texas heat has something to do with his communication subjects. Really enjoyed that fish photo a few months ago.

Please set your cameras to the highest resolution when recording these immortal scenes. We’d like to publish them.

VMI has a new athletic director, Jamaal Walton ’07. He was appointed in May. Walton previously held positions at Savannah State, Tennessee, Oklahoma, and Alabama, and 4 years at the College of Charleston before time at the University of Washington. As a cadet, he was captain of the football team and was awarded the Gen. George C. Marshall Citizen-Soldier Award and the Lemuel Mackennie Long Jarman Award.

The saddest part of writing these notes is the reporting of the passing of our brother rats.

Dr. Dave Thomas, a resident of his native Augusta, Georgia, died June 9, 2024. His obituary is extensive. A graduate of the Medical College of Georgia, he served as an Army flight surgeon in Vietnam. He was awarded the Air Medal, Bronze Star, and Purple Heart. Dave practiced pulmonary medicine for 31 years and served as chief of various divisions at University Hospital. Among other things, he was a single-digit handicap golfer at the Augusta Country Club.

David Wade reported the passing of Clifford Beasley Aug. 3 in Lorton, Virginia. Cliff went on from VMI to West Point, where he graduated with the Class of 1964. Cliff’s wife, upon his entry to hospice care, shared the following: “Life

Class of 1963: Bill Moore on a train trip through Western Canada.

Class of 1963: At the Hampton Yacht Club Aug. 14, 2024, are (from left) Ed Patnesky, Bill Bell, Bob Walton, Jan Gray, Bill Cowardin, Jim Key, Fred Lanier, Bob Powell, and John Mills.

1964

John R. Cavedo

should be a journey not to arrive at the grave safely but to slide in broadside in a cloud of smoke, thoroughly used up, totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming, ‘Wow, what a ride!’” Perhaps a lesson for all of us.

The summer is hot, and with football and cooler weather, I hope will stir communication and activity for the next class notes. Please keep me in the loop when telling of your adventures. Your brothers are interested and need to know. Good luck and good health to all of you.

The several weeks after our 60th Reunion were hectic. Lots of us had traveling to accomplish. I hope I thanked everyone who helped with the planning and execution of this wonderful time.

Unfortunately, just since the reunion, we’ve lost six brother rats: Mike Battaglia, Brad Cherry, George Warren, Parker Duncan, Bernie Vincent, and Mark Mulrooney. A couple of them dropped off our net years ago, but we still mourn them in our special bond.

If you would indulge me, Dan DeForrest, Bob Warren, and I work together to keep up with the passing of brother rats and spouses. You probably are aware, using the class funds (obtained various ways), we send a red, white, and yellow flower arrangement to the surviving spouse. The problem is that, in too many cases, we either stumble across the death notice or obituary or VMI’s system notices a death in their daily searches. Many times, we don’t hear of the death until long after all memorials, burials, etc, have taken place. Floral arrangements at the point lose a lot of their meaning.

What I’m requesting is, right now, today, please let your next of kin know you want either a brother rat or the VMI Alumni Agencies notified if one of you passes.

Eighteen years of experience has proved the value of on-time notifications and receipt of the floral arrangements. Surviving spouses and other family attach a great deal of importance to this acknowlegement of the brother rat bond.

Tom Davis wrote in, “Thanks, John, for letting us know this sad news regarding our loss of Brother Rat Parker Duncan. He was a BR with incredible character, integrity, and personality. We were fortunate to have him as our BR; I always admired him. May he rest in peace.”

Tom Myers: “Yes, this is very sad news. I’m not officially your brother rat, but I was with you academically for 3 years, graduating in ’64 with you all. My major became English my 3rd Class year, and Parker and I were in many classes together. Parker was smart. He was super bright. I told him that more than once during our conversations. It seemed to be a habit in several of our classes with several of our professors, asked by the professor, which drew a very quiet room, and no response ended by the professor saying, ‘Mr. Duncan,

tell the class the answer.’ He was really on top of things and a very friendly fellow. I know many of us will miss him a lot.”

W.J. Kitchen: “It is so sad to hear about Parker. I had a good conversation with him at our recent reunion. Among other things, he told me they were taking a river boat trip in Europe in the early fall. I know Parker will be missed by us all. Lauranne and I extend our best wishes and prayers to his family. Also, today, June 7, is the day the Class of 1964 graduated from VMI 60 years ago. What a great class with such great brother rats. Rest in peace to all of those who have now departed us, and we extend our best wishes for a safe, healthy, and happy life to our remaining classmates and spouses. If you get to the left coast, you have a standing invitation to come see us.

“It was great talking with you yesterday and good to hear you both are doing well. Also, happy your trip home from the reunion went well. Again, thanks for all the both of you did for the reunion and the many hours you have dedicated to being our class agent. Your many years of dedication to being our class agent are truly exemplary. I was shocked to get your note that George Warren had died. He, along with Ron Williams, were my roommates for our last 3 years at VMI. We got along really well and had a great friendship. I called Paula and left her a message last night. I did not know he was suffering from Parkinson’s nor how serious his condition was. So many of our brother rats dying in such a short time frame is heartbreaking.”

Roxane Spitzer, widow of Lee Fleshood: “I am so sorry to hear this, as I knew Parker well. A great man. Hope you and Sherrel are well. I live in Madison, Wisconsin, now and really like it. Keep well.”

Class of 1963: Pete Brunel and Bill Moore on a train trip in Vancouver, British Columbia.

Class of 1963: Pete Brunel and Bill Moore on a train trip near Lake Louise in the Canadian Rockies.

Class of 1964: At the 60th Reunion in April 2024 are (from left) Ken Dice, Dick Atkinson, Al Fiorini, Tom Sebrell, Bob Warren, Chris Hopkins, and John Cavedo.

Bill McVey: “Very sad news, and such a surprise after just seeing Parker so alive and ‘well’ a few weeks ago. We were in D Company together so shared our rat year as neighbors. It was apparent very early on that Parker was going to be one of the nicest and smartest guys I was ever likely to meet. The rat system didn’t seem to faze him, either. I’m not sure he ever got a demerit.

May you rest in peace, brother rat.”

Callie Tucker: “A quick hello from us. Having a lovely dinner with Bill and Cinda Rimm

Hope all are well and hope the reunion was a success. Love to you both.” Callie sent along a nice photograph of the three of them at a restaurant. Unfortunately, like most of the photos sent to me, it was too small to get published in the Alumni Review.

Paula Warren: “I think you’re already aware of George’s passing. I am finally getting around to writing you. George passed away April 23 in the early morning hours. He was diagnosed in 2022 with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s is recognized by the VA as a ‘presumptive’ illness, the result of exposure to Agent Orange. George was exposed to Agent Orange during his 1968–69 tour of duty in Vietnam. He truly loved VMI and was sorry he couldn’t make it to the 60th Reunion.

“I’m sure you will inform all of his brother rats. George’s obituary can be found at Brown-Wynne Funeral Home’s website, brownwynneraleigh. com. Of course, condolences can be left. W.J. Kitchen has already called me. It’s wonderful to have everyone’s support.”

Later, Paula added, “I am now living with our daughter, Elizabeth, and her family. This is just a few blocks from where George and I were residing. Elizabeth and her husband have a very lively household, with one son leaving soon for college and the other starting middle school. I am enjoying being in their midst; it is a comfort.”

Frank Parker: “Just to let you know we made it home OK after driving almost 3,300 miles through 12 states! Also, we wanted to thank you and everybody for organizing a great reunion. Much appreciated. I talked with Jack Trossbach, who was planning on attending but couldn’t make it at the last moment. On their cruise to Indonesia, he and Judy got some bad local food, and he twisted his ankle on cobblestones. They’re pretty much recovered, but he’s still in a boot. Thanks again for everything.”

Dick Atkinson, “I have also included a couple of pictures from our Mediterranean cruise late last year. I haven’t been very good about sending pictures recently, so will try to do better.”

Char Segesman, responding to my inquiry, “Yes, I’m doing fine and no, I haven’t received your emails in several years. I have a bad knee that limits my mobility, but other than that I’m quite healthy as my recent physical confirmed. I hope all are also doing well. Enjoy the reunion.”

As has been the case in the past, I’ve had numerous phone calls with many of you: W.J. Kitchen, Dan DeForrest, Bob Warren, Hank Cronin, Kerry Hines, Dick Atkinson, Butch Nunnally, Bill and Lola Tornabene, Tom Sebrell, and Walt Sykes

Lola Tornabene let me know their grandson was recently commissioned in the Army as a field artillery officer (the best kind). Congrats to the family.

I enjoy hearing from each of you; wish everyone would call often. In closing, if you haven’t received an email from me regarding any of the recent deaths or something else, that means I don’t have your current email. I try to keep up but really need you to email me your latest. Likewise, if you’ve sent me a photo and you don’t see it in the Alumni Review, it means either your camera or email carrier is reducing the bytes to the point they can’t be printed.

1965

C. Lou Siegel

Joe Bush and I (Lou Siegel) met at Hampden-Sydney College in March 2024. I was at a rugby match involving a nephew. Joe was athletic director at Hampden-Sydney for many years and continues to live there. Though a short visit, it was really nice to see him.

Marshall Henry had a visit with Hurricane Debby, noted below, and mentions the death of his wife of many years. “Came to Hilton Head to clean up after my family and friends were here for 3 weeks. It’s been very hot and humid, so we haven’t played golf, plus Debby’s rain for 4 days. Going home next week and come back to HHI in

Class of 1964: Lauranne and W.J. Kitchen, Cathy and Bob Warren, and Susan and Dick Atkinson with their guides in South Africa in April 2024.

Class of 1964: At the wedding of Kyle Cavedo, grandson of John Cavedo, in Naples, Florida, in May 2024 are (from left) John, Kyle, and Jim (John’s son).

Class of 1964: Susan and Dick Atkinson in Rome, Italy, in October 2023.

October for several months. Looking forward to it.

“Lou ... think I had already passed on to you for fall Review that my wonderful wife of 54 years, Susan, died this past February. I look forward to seeing all at our upcoming 55th (60th). One of our student waiters here at Brandermill Woods leaves for rat week next weekend.”

Clyde Bragg reports, “All good here.” Short, descriptive. Yup.

Bill Cather: “It’s been a year since Mia’s passing, and I have tried to keep busy to better absorb the loss. I continue to work a couple of hours a day in my yard full of flowers. My daughter, Anna, invited me to accompany her family of six to Seaside near Destin, Florida. It’s always great fun when you can go to the beach with your grandchildren. My oldest son, Heath, now president of Stewart Perry Construction, and I went to Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico for a ‘behind the scenes’ tour of some of the backcountry camps. The biggest thing on my plate was the Major League ballgame between the Giants and the Cardinals that was played at Rickwood Field June 20. When I and three others began our quest to save America’s Oldest Ballpark in 1992, I never dreamed we would host such an event. It was 3 years in the making with an unbelievable amount of detail, but it came off without a hitch. We had so many baseball greats in attendance, Jeter, Rodriguez, Bonds, etc., that I lost count. This weekend, the Alumni Agencies is having a dinner in Montgomery, and I will be joining them for a ‘civil rights march’ in Hayneville, Alabama, in remembrance of Jonathan Daniels ’61. I hope to see some of you in November and everyone next April.”

Wayne Chiles: “Today, Doug (Thomas) and I attended the very moving funeral service for our BR Everette Hatch representing ’65. In a very brief time, I learned a great deal about a classmate I barely knew. Not only was he a very successful Air Force officer, but he had pursued a variety of additional educational achievements. One guest spoke of how Everette was such a great leader of his personnel, finding the good in all. He truly led a life of service, military, church, and mentorship to youth in many areas. As you know, Everette’s brother, Webb [Hatch ’69], was in Class of ’69. This picture (sorry, it didn’t make it due to size) shows Webb on the left and his friend, Mike Smith ’71, next to him. Since I know nothing about photography, I do not know if it meets the requirements for publication.”

Jeff Gausepohl had two notes, one on a recent international trip: “Back from our (Vicki and I) trip to Thailand. Forgot how hot and how humid Thailand is. And yes, it is a long way away. But a beautiful country—great people, unique culture,

Class Notes

and some impressive sights.” Then, the second: “Joe Kruse scheduled an August Saturday morning visit to Greg Cavallaro ’84’s lakefront home on Smith Mountain Lake. For Joe and me, it was our first visit to SML. Joe insisted he drive, and I was assigned to be the navigator—we sped past our exit off Interstate 81 (debating if it should exist—imagine that), and the adventure began. We ended up with two cell phones providing our route. Of course, Joe followed his phone while I kept my phone navigation program running. We did get there—only a few minutes late. Cav, as always, was a very gracious host. We toured his home (now

that is a home) followed by an hour-plus boat tour around the lake with detailed commentary on the lake’s history and who lived where. Our car ride home was with Joe still behind the wheel—similar to the drive up, two navigation systems running, and considerable chatter—‘No, Joe,’ ‘Slow down, Joe,’ ‘You cannot pass here, Joe.’ Then we took the notorious Route 43 over the mountain down to Interstate 81. If visiting with Joe, I strongly suggest you offer to drive. Note: We are smiling in the picture—but that was before the drive home.”

Johnny Mac Marshall: “Good morning, Lou. Well, actually this summer has been quite busy for us. Jamie has developed projects around the house, putting her ‘spare’ time to good use. For my part, I do what I can to stay out of her way. In that vein, I have been doing a lot of sitting as a visiting judge, some of which deals with child custody, and that is not fun. It gets me out of the house, and, of course, it is fun to travel in the state to meet new lawyers and cases. People ask me how I am enjoying retirement, and I respond that, for me, it has turned out to be working longer for more people for less money ... but it is fun. Also, I have been writing some articles, one of which has been published, relative to the impact that AI has had and will have on society (not just lawyers). Of course, remember that I was a history major and not an engineer, so my writings are not filled with technical terms that other history majors cannot understand. I was also asked to co-author a history of the first 50 years of the SMU Law School, and that was much more in my historical groove ... as well as being fun. It has been published and is now being distributed to alumni at no charge [so no royalties for me]. Jamie and I were scheduled to go to Galveston for a legal conference that, as it happened, was to start 2 days after Hurricane Beryl hit. We drove down and passed through an amazing landscape of destruction only to arrive where all of the restaurants were closed, and our hotel had no power. Needless to say, we turned around and drove home the next morning. What is surprising to me is that, with the long history of the storms on the coast, the people there seem always to be unprepared, and I don’t know why we can’t plan better. Ah, well, as the summer is drawing to a close (even in Texas), we are looking forward to the upcoming reunion and what we can do to make it a really good one for the BRs.”

Phil Shu’s notes: “I attended Charlie Ramsburg’s ’66 funeral today in Greensboro, and six of his brother rats were there, including Frank Louthan ’66 and Marshall Taylor ’66. It was fun to reconnect with them, and the service was a fitting tribute to Charlie, who loved Jesus. Death is hard but easier when the deceased has walked

Class of 1965: Jeff Gausepohl and Joe Kruse at the home of Greg Cavallaro ’84 at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, in summer 2024.

Class of 1965: Joe Bush and Lou Siegel at a rugby tournament at Hampden-Sydney College in spring 2024.

with the Lord. The pastor emphasized two points important for a life well lived that Charlie quietly exemplified: 1) Belief in Jesus as the son of God and 2) Action, living a life of love and compassion that glories our Savior. Both the Holy Spirit and the spirit of VMI were present today.”

Here’s hoping that each of you is full of spunk, smiling, and enjoying each day with multiple layers of “family,” e.g kids, grandkids and, for many, great-grandkids! Fall weather should be the norm for most of you; whether that weather (like that phrase?) is providing seasonal late fall or early winter temperatures and snow, embrace the change. Also, please think about providing me with more “fodder” for our next class notes, in text or photographic format ... all due to me no later than Wednesday, Nov. 13, which is right after the Marine Corps birthday and Veterans Day.

On this past Memorial Day, Tim Manahan was remembering our BRs who gave their all in Vietnam. “I especially remember Harry Hambleton, as he was a roommate with Tom and me our rat year. Harry left after 1 year and finished at the University of Wisconsin.” Tim and his family recently visited Tallahassee to see their only grandson graduate from FSU law school ... at age 23! He took the Florida bar exam last July and has a job lined up in Tampa.

Rich Hines was asked to speak to the Atlanta Breakfast Club’s Memorial Day event. For me, Rich’s eloquent address evoked very strong feelings about the significance of that day, and I believe many of you would enjoy reading his remarks. If you would like to read them, please contact me, and I will send you a link to his address.

Just after last Memorial Day, I posed the question to many of you: Is there a film/video production that accurately portrays the grunt war in Vietnam? John Rowe has provided information about The Teaching Company, which does business as Wondrium and Great Courses and is a media production company

that produces educational video and audio content in the form of courses and documentaries. Under the “Woodrium” brand, it has a 23-lecture series on the Vietnam War. It is by a professor of military history, Dr. John C. McManus, at Missouri University of Science and Technology, and is a video history of the war. Each lecture lasts about 25–30 minutes and they are, in John’s opinion, a balanced presentation of the Vietnam War. Lecture No. 10 is titled, “The World of the American Combat Soldier,” and it is about “grunts.” John’s review: “It is a good piece.” Thanks, John! Backing up to the Civil War era, I have discovered Duane Williams is the vice chairperson of the Dwight David Eisenhower Society. The society

was founded by a group of Gettysburg citizens who played bridge with the Eisenhowers, and its goal is to continue Eisenhower’s legacy by supporting the “National Park Service efforts at the farm by funding projects at the farm,” e.g. paying for interns to reproduce their bedroom furniture set and other furniture that was in the house when Ike and Mamie lived there. They also award scholarships at Gettysburg College, provide senior leadership awards in each school district in the county, and provide nationwide grants to projects that “either emphasize Eisenhower values and ideals or are conducting research on Ike’s career such as when he commanded Camp Colt in Gettysburg in World War I.” Very interesting; thank you, Duane.

Rick Kiernan continues his work with the Desert Storm Memorial Committee and is editing and updating his book on military-media relations. The Desert Storm Memorial will be adjacent to the Vietnam Wall. The title of the book is: “Headlines from The Frontline: The Military and Media Relationship ... An Uneasy Truce” by retired U.S. Army Col. David R. Kiernan. Rick, please let us know when the book is available. Rick is also speaking at his grandchildren’s classes on American history.

A photograph of our brother rats who attended services for Charlie

Nick Hoskot

Class of 1966: Tim and Sandy Manahan with their grandson, Jordan, at his graduation from FSU Law School.

Class of 1966: Attending a memorial service for Charles “Charlie” Ramsburg in Greensboro, North Carolina, July 26, 2024, are (from left) Marshall Taylor, Parky Parkman, John Bolger, Frank Louthan, and Woody Sadler.

Class of 1966: Rob and Jan Ritchie.

Ramsburg in July was taken by Mary Fran Parkman and sent in by Parky. He noted it was a wonderful service, and many stories and tributes were told about Charlie.

The service was well attended, and they had the opportunity to meet members of Charlie’s family and friends. Parky noted, “It was readily apparent why Charlie was so proud of his family.”

Rob and Jan Ritchie were the top amateur couple in their division at the Arthur Murray Houston area regional competition last June. Rob said: “My wife, who has been dancing competitively for a number of years, finally talked me into a competition, and as it turned out, we were the top amateur couple.” Congratulations, Rob and Jan!

Finally, many thanks to all of you for checking and updating your contact information on file at the Alumni Agencies. It is especially helpful when another BR is trying to get in touch with you. Please update as needed.

Reminder: Notes and photos will always be due to me no later than 3 days prior to 15th of February, May, August, and November. You can certainly send me your news/photos anytime during the year ... believe me, I frequently receive comments from you all about how much you appreciate learning about what other brother rats have been doing!

Take care; listen to your wife/partner; eat well; and laugh, grin, and guffaw!

Best,

Nick

We owe a special thanks to Pete Wells for his efforts to seat a VMI plaque on the wall of honor at Fort Belvoir and also to those who made it happen with their contributions. The leftover funds sent in are now a part of the ’67 flower and bereavement family fund. I continue to try to find information from the Marines about Chip Chafey’s Navy Cross since I attended the ceremony in D.C. at 8th and I barracks when he was honored 45 years ago and where it was presented to him. It may be still classified from his clandestine recon activities in North Vietnam, as nothing has turned up on it so far.

William Fleshood: “Jo and I started our spring break visiting Jo’s sister and bro-in-law in LA. Jo’s other sister and brother-in-law, from St. Louis,

Class Notes

joined us, as well. While in LA, we enjoyed a trip to the Reagan Library/Museum, which had a ‘Star Wars’ exhibit. The six of us flew to the Big Island of Hawaii. We played golf at two beautiful courses, took a Big Island tour, went on a dinner cruise, took a kayaking/snorkeling tour, and ended our Hawaii trip with a luau. From Hawaii, we flew to Portland, Oregon, to spend a week with our two sons and families. There, we hiked in one of the country’s oldest forests and played golf with one of our sons.”

Jack Sheeran: “Thought I’d add my family to the D-Day ‘remembrances.’ My uncle was a grounds crewman in the 8th Air Force, popularized by ‘Masters of the Air.’ My step-father and father-in-law were both in the Army in the Pacific in the Philippines and New Guinea. One was a tech sergeant running large command radios and radar, while the other was an infantryman. My mother was the most interesting. She worked for Sperry Rand instruments and made components for the Norden bombsite. Each day, she carried a large wooden toolbox on the bus to the plant where she worked.”

Jake de Steiguer: “Nice to hear from you. We’re having a busy summer (when it stops raining) here with a forest thinning project we’re doing on our 6 acres of fir and maple. No planned jaunts til October, when we take our annual trip to Vancouver Island, then afterward, we’ll continue over to Calgary to see some friends. Our daughter and family are moving here from Portland, Oregon, in July, so there will be some chaos as they relocate to a rental house for a couple of years. We gave plans to build an accessory dwelling unit here on our property that they will live in. ‘Ain’t nothin’ simple.’”

Larry Adams: “Nothing new to report. We are planning a trip to Sweden and France in September. Our first trip across the pond.”

Mike Bagnulo: “Jan: For those who need more info about the ‘golf trip’ picture, it was taken at dinner June 21, during our annual trip to Southern Pines, North Carolina. The bottom of the picture is Tubby Wilkinson. Going to the left is George Sanborn, Tom Gillette, Jack Vest, Ted Mervosh, Kermit Quick, Jim Cain, Kip Jones, and Mike Bagnulo. Not shown is Jim Phlegar, who came in the next morning.”

Lynn Beaulieu: “I hope to get back east in the fall to visit family and friends, but no promises until my medical issues are settled and AnnMarie has completed her appointments. Best wishes for a great summer and fall.”

Pretty sure ’67 has covered the lavalier question very well in our email exchanges. We heard from Jimmy Rogers with his question asking if anyone

Class of 1967: Al Burckard portrays ship captain John Sinclair at the 230th anniversary of the 1794 military sortie into the port town of Smithfield, Virginia, by Virginia Militia Brig. Gen. John Marshall, later chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court.

Karen

recognized it, and then various replies came from many including Tom Richardson, Ted Coe, Jim Ferrell, Joe Stafford, and Bruce Weiner. Some wives had been presented with one, which meant being “pinned” by their cadet or that they were going steady. They were not about to relinquish theirs. Bruce was able to help Jimmy when he heard Jimmy’s daughter had discovered his and kept it, and Jimmy needed another for Bootsie. We also found out during the exchanges that Ted Coe’s much-loved wife, Lois, had passed a couple of years ago and then discovered that Tom Coughenour’s son, Todd, passed with COVID-19 during the pandemic. We would like to express our deepest sympathy on behalf of the class to both Ted and Todd’s brother, Tim. Jake de Steiguer, in his antique Range Rover,

Lonnie Jan Abernathy

Class of 1967:

Affholter, Jim Baker’s daughter, with the flowers sent by the class in her father’s memory.

proudly displayed VMI colors in the Vashon, Washington, strawberry festival parade. His photo is included with this issue.

I asked Bob Poland how he weathered Hurricane Beryl that swamped much of Houston, and he replied, “Vicki and I, plus the house, are fine. The back fence didn’t ‘survive’ three separate trees falling on it in three separate places. We only went 2-plus days and nights without power. Thanks for thinking about the ‘naturalized Texans’ in the class.”

Ted Mervosh: “All is well here with both Carol and me. Taking the family to Barcelona, the French wine country, and Paris in early September; should be a great trip for all of us.

Bruce Weiner: “While we were in Antarctica, a pipe burst, and our house flooded. It was 30 degrees in Antarctica, but it got down to 10 degrees in Fort Worth. On the bright side, our friends and neighbors (and contractors) jumped in to cut off the water and save our home and possessions from damage. USAA was terrific, and we ended up remodeling our home during the restoration project to make it more handicap accessible (for our future needs). It took about 5 months to make it all happen. In the end ... it’s only ‘stuff,’ isn’t it? It just adds to our collection of memories, and we remain grateful to still be of sound mind.”

Chuck Malley did a great job of coordinating the information between Jim Baker’s daughter, Karen Affholter, and myself after her father passed away in June. We were able to get out the information to all BRs on my email listing and arrange for flowers for his service in the Manassas, Virginia, area. Karen arranged for Jim’s service and a dinner afterward at a local tavern. BRs Chuck Malley, John Lee, Dennis Telzrow, Rick Brooke, and Bill Creswick were able to attend. Joan had a great conversation with Karen and was able to find out more about Jim than any of us had ever known, which we will share via my VMI email.

returned through Washington National Airport and stayed the night with me in Arlington. We usually went into D.C. for drinks the night they arrived. One time, we went to the Journey Inn in Georgetown. Larry and Tom bought huge schooners of beer and drank all night long. When we got home to my house around midnight, they were pretty drunk. They decided to play games. They took off, and I found them rolling manhole covers

A short update on some cadets I have been following this year that show you the difference in opportunities available to cadets now: Blake will be an S-5 sergeant this fall with academic stars in charge of much rat training. His specialty is jujitsu, and he spent the summer in Oxford, England, with Virginia students from several colleges on a state-sponsored program. Jesse, with academic stars, was a lieutenant in pipe and drums and is now a Navy ensign awaiting her Surface Warfare School and then her first ship, a destroyer in Yokasura, Japan. Rachel just completed summer camp in Fort Knox and will be an A Company lieutenant with her academic stars this fall. Among others, these kids deserve our congratulations. Charlie Moir’s grandson survived his rat year!

Jamie Tate sent in a memory during an exchange regarding Larry Scanlon: “I remember Larry Scanlon very well. Larry and I dyked in the same room of F Company 1sts, along with Lee Steelman and Tom Engleman. We got along great and had a good time. When Larry and Tom went home for spring and summer furloughs, they

down the street. I put them to bed and spent a half hour replacing the manhole covers on the openings. I never understood why Larry left VMI. But he told me he was taking courses at U of Kansas in the engineering school. I was very sorry to learn of his death in a mortar attack.”

Sometimes, I am overwhelmed with your photos and trips and, occasionally, your health hiccups. I am sorry to say overall news was scarce in time for August notes, but I am happy to say there was also very little unpleasant health news. But June and July offered a lot of entertainment anyway. The much-heralded debate gave us a couple of weeks of raucous TV coverage with scant initial results. Then, the two international soccer tournaments took over. I like soccer, as my son was into it many years ago, and I took the FIFA referee course to learn the rules. I also was a line ref for many young kids’ games on Saturdays and must say that parents are the worst at youth games. It was not my best choice to assist a team coach, as I tore an Achilles tendon one day. I stepped on a rock in a field that must have been a cow pasture quite recently, as the pies were fresh. Then, there was the shot in Pennsylvania that took over all coverage of the airwaves for a couple of weeks. In short order, there was a change in candidates. But I digress to my Olympic observations that broke the depressing political cycle. To begin with, I never knew there were so many nations when the boats sailed down the Seine carrying 205 sets of teams. There were some countries I had never heard of before or even during the competitions later. I have a reasonable liberal arts degree and have traveled much of the world, but I think the adage about always learning something new is reasonable. And there were some sports I had never heard of or paid much

Class of 1967: Gathering for golf in Pinehurst, North Carolina, in June 2024 are (standing, from left) Kermit Quick, Jack Vest, George Sanborn, Jim Phlegar, Tom Gillette, Mike Bagnulo, Jim “Bear” Cain, (kneeling) Kip Jones, David “Tubby” Wilkinson, and Ted Mervosh.

Class of 1967: Jake de Steiguer drives his vintage Range Rover at the Vashon Strawberry Festival in Washington state.

attention to. There was one where players lined up to play what could have been a basketball and field hockey combination where the action looked like water polo on a hard court. I never did hear what it was called, but somewhere it must be popular. With Joan, I enjoyed gymnastics, as she trained to coach gymnastics at JMU, and she coached a great high school team when she was a teacher. And we watched all 3 days of equestrian events. Smoothness and grace at the gorgeous Versailles palace. Joan gave the best play by play commentary as she grew up with the sport and has ridden in competition in Iran, the U.S.A., and spent summers in Ireland schooling U.S. Olympic mounts. I followed her up and down the East Coast before we got married, pulling a trailer with her favorite mare, and she has a trunk full of ribbons to show for it. Did you know that badminton was a sport and not just a kid’s toy? By accident, when there was a delay with my TV, I filled the void with a doubles game. The players acted like they were both trying to kill the shuttlecock and their opponents. The speed and velocity of the game was mesmerizing. I think my favorite sport was rugby. I admit I never had any clue as to the rules and ferocity of the game and still do not. It seems to be sort of adult keep-away with a quasisprinkling of U.S. football and street fighting. Body slams, blind sliding tackles, face plants, and pummeling are expected, but apparently no intentional roundhouse punching allowed. Other than that, everything and anything goes. Scoring slowly became less of a mystery when I figured that a player crossing the goal line had to actually

touch the ground with the ball itself while holding it in a vise grip. There was a lot of wrestling effort by opposing players to hold the scorer and the ball off the ground. On to the women’s variation. There is no discernable difference except a couple of unwritten guidelines. I did thoroughly enjoy the break from the depressing enough news before politics reared its ugly head once again. But suddenly, there was a new presidential candidate with a week or two of fresh hype before the track and field part of the Olympics began. Will end my summer activities here in anticipation of another political convention. Whew, glad football is on the way.

Before I start a new mindless cycle of seemingly uninteresting “news” from the fall, I ask that you please send in something from your neck of the woods. I can make up plenty of filler if necessary, and you will recall that the election will have just concluded. And, if you feel left out of the fun email exchanges we have been having sharing memories, please send me an email and ask to be added to the list. And think of this AR column as a forum that represents you, our history, and the life we all live. Send in personal and family updates so your family will enjoy it later. The holidays are coming. Stay warm and safe in your travels and winter frolics.

Jan

1968

Tom Hickey

I’m starting with a Rankin (Honolulu, Hawaii) story in his own words: “This is a story with many coincidences (I don’t believe in coincidences) about my visit to First Lieutenant Benjamin Rives Kearfott’s ’43 grave at the American Cemetery in Normandy, France, and the subsequent events, which ultimately led to a visit to the VMI Museum by members of the Kearfott family Aug. 2, 2024.

“My wife and I visited the American Cemetery in Normandy in April 2024. The trip to Normandy was on my travel bucket list for a long time. Thanks to VMI 1968 class agent Tom Hickey, I was armed with a list of VMI graduates who are buried at the cemetery. Our intention was to visit and pay respects to as many as we could in the time allotted for our tour. “Unfortunately, we found out that all the markers were roped off, and visitors were not permitted to walk among the markers.

Class of 1968: Dick and Cynthia Rankin visit the grave of U.S. Army 1st Lt. Benjamin R. Kearfott ’43 at the American Cemetery above Omaha Beach in Normandy, France, April 6, 2024.

To visit a grave site, you had to be a family member or close friend. So, we visited the cemetery administration to seek permission to visit one of the VMI graduate’s grave sites. I explained that I was a VMI graduate, and that made me a friend. It did not hurt that the vice-superintendent of the American Cemetery was also a VMI graduate, John Bolt ’99, and they seemed to understand the relationship between VMI graduates.

“We selected the grave of Lieutenant Benjamin Rives Kearfott. He was so young and was killed on D-Day. To make a very long story short, we were treated like we were family. We were escorted to the grave marker on a covered cart.

Class of 1967: Bruce and Hollace Weiner on an Antarctica cruise in 2024.

Class of 1968: Sandy and Hal Switzer vacation in Mykonos, Greece, May 27, 2024.

I was given wet sand from Omaha Beach to rub on Lieutenant Kearfott’s name to make sure we could clearly see his name. I was given an American flag to place by the marker, and our escort placed a French flag. The American national anthem and taps were played. It was a moving experience. The escort gave me some time alone and I prayed. I left the marker with an overwhelming desire to share the experience with Kearfott’s family members.

“When I returned to Hawaii, I was on a mission to contact Lieutenant Kearfott’s family members. Tom Hickey put me in contact with Marta St. John-Anders, wife of our brother rat Skip Anders. Marta is famous for finding people. She found a nephew of Lieutenant Kearfott, who lives in Nyack, New York, namesake Benjamin Carriel. She gave me the telephone number of the music school where Benjamin teaches music. I called and spoke to a colleague of Benjamin’s and left my email and telephone number. I did not receive a call or an email for a week. I called again and left a second message. I was not going to leave any more messages as I felt that maybe over the years Benjamin may have been inundated with this sort of contact attempts. Then Benjamin emailed me and informed me of where he lived and that it was just 30 minutes north of New York City.

“Ironically, I had business in New York City planned for early June. Benjamin and I agreed to meet for dinner. He said he would drive into the city. We had a wonderful time talking about our visit to the American Cemetery in France and all about the Kearfott family. Unlike what I had previously thought and mentioned above, Benjamin informed me this was the first time anyone who had visited Lieutenant Kearfott’s grave contacted the family. It turns out that Lieutenant Kearfott’s sister and Benjamin Carriel’s mother gave Benjamin the flag that draped on Lieutenant Kearfott’s coffin, his Purple Heart medal, and dog tag. He asked me what a good place would be to donate these items.

“I contacted Colonel Keith Gibson ’77 at the VMI Museum, and he said he would be very interested in having those items. He asked Benjamin Carriel to mail the items to the VMI Museum. The flag, Purple Heart medal, and

dog tag arrived at VMI on the 80th anniversary of D-Day—the 80th anniversary of the day Lieutenant Benjamin Kearfott was killed at Omaha Beach.

“Colonel Gibson told me he would place the items into a special display in the museum. He also told me that whenever he briefs cadets, he talks about Benjamin Rives Kearfott

“After I signed up for the VMI Football Reunion, held Aug. 2–4, 2024, I invited Benjamin Carriel and other Kearfott family members to

come to VMI that weekend so we could all visit the VMI Museum. Benjamin and his daughter, Rebecca, drove 8 hours from New York City, and his cousin, Joe Kearfott, drove from Richmond for the visit.

“It was a wonderful gathering, and it was comforting for Benjamin Carriel and his family to know his uncle’s legacy will live on within the halls of VMI.”

Vic Huang (Cupertino, California): “Nothing much different from before, busy with IEEE Society activities and conferences, talks, magazine articles, etc. This entails traveling to different spots around the world where our conferences and board meetings are held.

“On the homefront, well, my older two granddaughters are doing well in college; one will be a senior at Arizona State University the coming academic year, and the other will be a sophomore at UC Berkeley. My two younger grandkids are in high school.”

Bill Todd (Wilmington, North Carolina): “We started the year taking all the kids and grandkids (19) on a New Year’s Disney cruise. Kathy and I took a Viking Cruise that took us to Barcelona, Marseille, Florence, Rome, Pompeii, Corfu, Croatia, and Venice. Then a few days at the Lake District in Italy. Spent some time in the Naples, Florida, area and then back to Wilmington for golf at our club. This summer a good number of the kids will be visiting us with the grandkids.”

Greg Wall (Keswick, Virginia): “We had a nice visit with Doug Schnabel in Abingdon, where he raised his family. We visited one of his business ventures, ‘The Ice Cream Stop.’ He built the building and ran it for quite a while before selling it. We had to test it and found it to still be very good.”

Bob Waldron (El Paso, Texas): “Sharon and I closed out our final contract with the U.S. Army April 15, 2024, paving the way for our closure of our corporation after 42 years. With this closure comes full retirement, which is keeping me quite busy. After being located in El Paso for some 48 years, we have purchased a new home in Georgetown, Texas (a little north of Austin, Texas), and will relocate during June–July. Georgetown is located between our

Class of 1968: Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System executive director, and Maj. Grace Moyer, Jackson House Museum site director, examine the casket flag of U.S. Army 1st Lt. Benjamin R. Kearfott ’43, who was killed during the D-Day invasion of Normandy June 6, 1944. The flag’s recent donation to the VMI Museum was coordinated by Dick Rankin and Benjamin Carriel, Kearfott’s nephew.—Photo courtesy Cathy DeSilvey, VMI Museum System registrar.

Class of 1968: Attending the VMI Football Reunion Aug. 3, 2024, are (from left) Bill Carter, Dick Rankin, Charlie Bishop, Bobby Ross ’59, and John Hince.

daughter in Austin and son in Dallas, which will allow us to see family far more frequently than the 10 hours driving time separations now. We look forward to this new chapter and anticipate seeing Jay Slaughter and Hal Switzer more frequently as they live in Blanco, Texas. Also saw that Phil Lanier is located nearby in Lakeway, Texas. Maybe we will start a new ’68 chapter here in Central Texas along with ‘The Catch’ Hince over in Bryan, Texas.”

Rick Brothers (Sedona, Arizona): “Jane and I are still on our honeymoon after 56 years married! Our kids are now all professionals: Michael (Ph.D.), Missy (P.A.), and Jenny (O.T.). They are 51, 50, and 49, respectively, plus our seven grandchildren are now adults! We now stay busy with three family high school graduations, visiting two grands in their colleges, and awaiting two more grands to graduate from high school in 2 years. I still enjoy doubles tennis and occasionally golf. As a member of the Sedona Patriots, I have become an [avid] shooter with my Colt 1911.45 semi-automatic and CC Sig Sauer P365.

“Jane has become an outstanding watercolor artist here in Sedona. She and my two artistic daughters travel to Italy this summer to work with a professional artist using watercolor media. While they are away, I’ll be going back-country in my Jeep, exploring more ruins and kayaking more mountain lakes. Still loving the wild Arizona high country! I still enjoy doing pro bono medicine in the Sedona area since people here are finding it so difficult to find a doctor.”

Tom Coffey (Wytheville, Virginia): “Every birthday these days is a great one. Nothing of note to report ... all quiet on the southern front. Just got an invitation to my 60th high school reunion! I don’t imagine I’m the only guy from ’68 who is getting such a reminder of the inexorable passage of time.”

Bob Mills (Miramar Beach, Florida): “We are enjoying retirement in Florida. This is my 10th year in retirement, and I do miss flying. I play golf three times a week and use our Beach Club membership weekly. No travel plans as family illness keeps us close to home.”

In this Review issue is a picture of Sandy and Hal Switzer (Blanco, Texas) in Mykonos, Greece. Here’s what Hal says is “the rest of the story.” “After two back surgeries since last July and another surgery early this year, we went to Greece in May. Several days in Athens where Sandy climbed up the Acropolis and walked all over the regular tourist areas. Traveling with travel friends of 40 years, we rented a car and drove the Peloponnesian Peninsula, with stops along the way in Delphi and Olympia, then down the

coast and back up to Corinth, took the ferry out to Mykonos for 4 days, then came home. Great trip, except we came home with COVID-19 (second time around for both of us). That kept us from attending our granddaughter’s high school graduation in Northern Virginia. All is well, recouping nicely and wondering where the next trip will be! Texas getting hot here in Blanco, though it’s not yet quite ‘plain Texas hot.’ Not to worry, it will be ... we just keep looking for rain!”

Steve Powers (Malvern, Pennsylvania): “As with most of our BRs, there is much joy and some sadness in our lives. My youngest brother, Paul, died unexpectedly in May after a very short illness. He was an ordained Christian minister and shared the gospel of Jesus Christ as a way of life. He leaves behind his wife, two beautiful daughters, and two lovely granddaughters.

“My wife and I went on a Viking Cruise from Venice to Athens with some of our family in June. It was a very special and fun time for seven of us to be together for 10 days.

“John Kemper (Richmond, Virginia) and I, along with all serious basketball players and fans, mourn the recent death of WVU and NBA Super Star Jerry West. He was one of the greatest ever and touched our lives at Basketball Camp Wahoo at UVA back in our playing days. He was a close personal friend of our coach, Gary McPherson (RIP), and Coach Mac shared many wonderful stories about ‘Mr. Clutch.’”

John Augustine (St. Petersburg, Florida): “No exciting trips, vacations, or activities to report. Our caretaking duties became less complex and time-consuming since last September—as my sister passed away from complications of Parkinson’s and pneumonia at age 74.

“My mother turns 100 Sept. 4 but still does remarkably well—other than having to use a walker to do her half mile around the block most days.”

Dave Avery (Lyme, New Hampshire): “At 78, new experiences are valued over additional stuff, so I chose a dining car dinner on a scenic railroad in Northern New Hampshire for my birthday. My father was a civil engineer for the C&O Railroad for 50 years, and growing up, we often used his employee pass to take weekend family trips. Last night’s dining car dinner was sort of like an airbrushed version of dining cars in my memory. ... This car had a full bar instead of a choice between PBR and Falstaff. The flatware looked like it was from the ’50s but wasn’t really silver. The flowers on the table were fresh rather than the faintly tired ones I recall. The dinner was a good experience, just updated.”

Later, Dave emailed, “How things have changed. I’m digitizing old pictures and came

across one of me walking in a Memorial Day parade from around 1995. I’m with members of my VFW post’s women’s auxiliary. Back then, few women qualified to become regular members of the VFW because so few met the criteria of having served overseas in a hostile fire zone. The auxiliary served the needs of wives who wanted to be involved with the VFW. Today, the post commander of my VFW post is a woman.”

Joe Petitta (Safety Harbor, Florida): “Just got back from Diane’s meeting in Kona, Hawaii! What a blast! Got a chance to scale the 13,000plus feet (via Jeep Sahara, of course) to the summit of Mauna Kea volcano. Did it at night and actually got a chance to look down at the sunset. Spending the rest of our time furnishing a vacation villa at Margaritaville near Hilton Head, making sure to wear something VMI-ish since there are a lot of ‘knobs’ here from The Citadel! Looking forward to the next reunion, since we missed the last one and hooking up with old friends.”

Ron Stultz (Williamsburg, Virginia): “Book publish in progress. Amazon. ‘Trifocals: One Man’s View.’ Short stories and muses. Be available in all formats, audio, eBook, paperback, etc., in month or two from every available book source. Since March and lots of work—280 pages or so. One of the ‘stories in a poem format’ is called ‘West Point of the South – Parade Rest.’”

Wayne Spruell (Ashburn, Virginia): “Lan and I visited Nice and the French Riviera, the Vatican, Italy, Croatia, and Medjugorje last year. And this year, we are in the process of moving into a retirement community just a few miles from our house. We are both still in reasonably good health but are beginning to feel the steady creep of old age. We have spent the last few weeks and will be spending the next few cleaning out the stuff we have accumulated over the past 20-plus years here and over almost 50 years of marriage and raising a family.

“Our three kids and three grandkids all live within a half-hour drive of our house. We are fortunate to enjoy many family get-togethers. Our oldest grandson will be attending JMU this fall.”

Jack Falzone (Crystal Lake, Illinois): “We just returned from a week in North and South Carolina visiting relatives and relaxing. Elaine and I are doing well. I am keeping busy with working on investments, travel plans, grandkids, etc., etc. I have been enjoying retirement. We are planning a trip to Athens and the Greek islands in mid-September for 3 weeks.”

Wayne Burton (Saint Marys, Georgia), “Sylvia and I went to Destin, Florida, for a week. Then a week in beautiful Thomasville, Georgia, to the rose festival and stayed at an 1825 plantation. This

town is a hidden jewel in Georgia. Now visiting family in Bethesda and Erie. Lew Yeouze, George Buzzard, and wives will be in Atlanta for the GT game.”

Dave Schneider (North Chesterfield, Virginia):

“I lost my wife in 2004 to cancer. I retired from VDOT as assistant division administrator in 2019. As a result of some medical issues including a broken shoulder, since January 2024, I am living in an assisted living facility in Bon Air, playing a lot of bingo and enjoying the company of a lot of seniors, all of whom, believe it or not, are older than I am, including two who are over 100.”

Bob Fletcher (Stevensville, Maryland): “I have been working on an interesting project for about a year for Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, concerning impacts of COVID-19 on non-federal correctional facilities and development of planning guidance for the next pandemic (there will be one). My wife, Kim’s, company, CNA, is an FFRDC and is the prime. This work took me to correctional facilities in Louisiana, Wisconsin, and Alaska as pilot states for preparedness planning and exercises. We both have shifted focus back to FEMA work, including the Public Assistance and Individual Assistance Program. Kim is in Oklahoma this week, supporting that work.

“I sold my boat recently, after 20 years of ownership, and picked up a golf club again last week. Trying to stay in shape against the odds, and I am feeling blessed to feel as well as I do. I don’t plan to retire unless the work dries up or gets boring. Kim is 10 years younger than I am and that keeps me going, as well.

“I regret to report that Hilda, a Lexington girl (lived on Hunter Hill across the Maury River from barracks) whom I married right after graduation, passed away just last week after a long bout with cancer. We were married for 22 years.”

Andy Andrews (Ocean Springs, Mississippi): “I am still living in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. Still married to my ‘same ole girl,’ Bonnie, wife of 56 years now. She remains my better half. Two children, six grandchildren, ages 20 to 5. Sorry to see so many of our BRs have passed on. ... I have not been back to VMI since the dedication of Carroll Hall some 40-plus years ago.”

Bill Carter (Raleigh, North Carolina): “Susan and I are both well and healthy for almost 80-yearolds. We spend most of our travel time with our children and grandchildren. When I received your birthday greeting, we were at the beach with daughter Kate and family and son Scott and family. George, our oldest, was visiting colleges with our grandson, John. He is a good lacrosse player and is being recruited by many DIII schools.

I left the beach and went to Lexington for the VMI Football Reunion! Charlie Bishop and I went last year. When I got to Lexington, I found that John Hince and Dick Rankin were there. It was great visiting Charlie, John, and Dick. Several of us are planning to go to The Citadel game this season. So far, Bishop, Bogie Holland, Kevin Henry, Dixon McElwee, Dick Wise, and I have committed. Rankin said he was planning to come for the Furman game.

Jack Bareford (Swainsboro, Georgia): “I basically don’t even think about birthdays anymore. Nothing new with me. Still work full time even with the pulmonary fibrosis. Medicare approved a portable oxygen concentrator, which surprised me, so I don’t drag the oxygen bottles around anymore. Kind of irritating as I never smoked and ran every day until I retired from the Army.”

Howard Chapman (Mount Pleasant, South Carolina): “As I write this, we are under a tropical storm and tidal surge warning for tropical storm Debby. We have predicted rainfall of 10-12 inches over several days and a tidal surge of up to 4 feet. I have retired from the State Guard, but the National Guard still may call me up if things get too bad according to the deputy adjutant general. My daughter and her husband and two grandchildren are here for the week at their beach house on Isle of Palms. They sure picked the wrong week this summer. “I was reelected to Mt. Pleasant Town Council last November to another 4-year term. I am enjoying this work in a civil and respectful environment. Only one new member was elected, and that was because a previous member chose not to run again. We must be doing something right.

“I get to see Guy Wilson, Frank Pinnizotto, and Gil Piddington on occasion, so we keep in touch with VMI. I have season tickets to USC again this

year, so I will be going to Columbia to watch the Gamecocks.”

Paul Hebert (Steamboat Springs, Colorado) wrote that his wife, Mayling Simpson, had received a note from Maj. Gen. Wins ’85 about her book, “Lives Guided by Honor–How VMI Shaped the VMI Class of 1968.” He wrote, “I especially enjoyed the words of wisdom included from members of the Class of 1968.”

Rich Andrassy (Houston, Texas): “My health is good. I am still working full-time at UT Health McGovern medical school. When not working, I mainly play golf, fish and hunt, but most of my time during the week is spent with my three daughters and six grandkids who live here. The grandkids range between 25 and 16 and are a lot of fun. Heading to Scotland for a week in 3 weeks to play golf. I usually stay in touch with what’s going on at VMI from Kerr Kump and Jim Burns.”

1969

Walter Judd

Greetings, Friends and BRs of the VMI Class of 1969,

It is summer in Eastern Virginia, and the class has been active. Although we lost two BRs this summer, we have also enjoyed the company of many more in person. George Lester and Courtenay Welton both ended their stays on Earth in June. We also received word that Doug Luckett died in June 2023. While we celebrate the lives of our departed BRs, we also honor others who still give their time and energy to worthy causes. John Ishon and John Zunka joined that illustrious group.

On May 28, several of us gathered for lunch with Charlie Bryan near his residence in Richmond’s West End. Mike Santoro, Spunky Butler, Bruce Gregory, Thornton Newlon, and I greeted Charlie. The conversation was fast, and all got a chance to talk. Bruce shared some umpiring stories, as he has begun umping softball games in informal leagues in Richmond. Thornton shared he is fighting his PD with regular sessions at the gym. Mike stays busy with his Virginia War Memorial activities and meetings. Charlie still is serving several fundraising efforts with his expertise and savvy leadership. Spunky and I just enjoyed being there.

At the VMI Keydet Club Leadership Outing June 7, John Sebrell and Walt Judd played golf

Class of 1968: Greg Wall and Doug Schnabel outside Doug’s former business, the Ice Cream Stop, in Abingdon, Virginia.

while Jim and Beth Long, Mary Alice Wright, and Dave Prugh joined the crowd for supper. John and I played with Russ Marshall ’70 and Bill Gearhart ’70. We were not at our best and did not win any prizes.

The MCV Foundation held its annual dinner and awards ceremony in Richmond June 10 at the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, honoring special persons making notable contributions to the Foundation. Attendees from our class included Charlie Bryan with his friend, Denise Pakula; John and Jane Ishon with both daughters and their husbands; John Sebrell with his fiancée, Lupy Pardue; Bruce Gregory; Bobby and Elizabeth Watts; Bruce and Gayle Noel; Walt and Beverly Judd; Mike and Martha Santoro; and Bunny and Carolyn Paulette. John Ishon received the Michael B. Dowdy Award “presented to a volunteer/donor, or group of volunteer donors, who provided valuable assistance in the area of fundraising for any of the MCV Campus entities.” In his acceptance speech, John mentioned the efforts he had led to raise money for the VCU Health Parkinson’s Disease Movement Center as a gift to BR Charlie Bryan immediately after our 50th Reunion in 2019. The effort produced a remarkable amount of money for the center and research into finding a cure for that debilitating condition now affecting five of our BRs. We applaud John and many members of the class who have made donations to that fund in Charlie’s honor.

In July, John Zunka received the VTLA/VADA Civility and Professionalism Award. After I read the citation, I had to get counsel for what it all meant! I spoke with Martha Santoro, an attorney, who helped me understand the nuances of the award. “John Zunka practices with Zunka, Milnor & Carter in Charlottesville, where he represents individuals, businesses, and insurance companies in civil litigation throughout Central and Western Virginia. A formidable opponent in the courtroom, John is known by all who work with him as a skilled litigator with impeccable integrity. He graduated from VMI in 1969 and Washington and Lee University School of Law in 1974. In addition to his various leadership roles within the Virginia Association of Defense Attorneys, John is a past president of the Charlottesville Albemarle Bar Association and a fellow of the American College of Trial Lawyers. In Charlottesville, you will find John working with Christ Episcopal Church and St. Anne’s Belfield School or out on the water for a duck hunt.” Recognition by your peers is always special!

Drew Brantley and Gary Mackey organized a class lunch at the Orapax Restaurant in Norfolk June 12. Attendees included Gary and Peggy

Mackey (on their 54th anniversary), Drew and Carol Brantley, Tom and Nancy Catlett, B.A. “Ted” and Peggy Rennolds, John and Laurie Griffin, Bob and Lynda Flowers, WIP Priest, Bob Alexander, Bruce Gregory, Bunny Paulette, Jim Chapman, Webb Hatch, Walt Judd, and John Ishon. Regular attenders Glenn White was in Aruba, and Bob Heely was home recovering from spine surgery (and talked to us via Facetime).

On June 18 in Williamsburg, several of our class ate lunch at the VMI senior luncheon. Jim Chapman joined Glenn White, Walt Judd, Bob Flowers, Drew Brantley, and WIP and Barbara Priest for fun and fellowship. Ed Johnson ’79, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, spoke and gave an update of the last year’s activities. A new wrinkle for the Alumni Association is the invitation of certain sports teams or emphasis groups back to post on non-reunion weekends. There have been several already.

After our 55th Reunion, when we had a few scarves/shawls remaining, I noted most of the recipients of the scarves really liked them. I decided we needed to remember our widows with a gift. The gals at the VMI Alumni Agencies helped me order more, and I sent them to many of our extended family. Apparently, they were appreciated, as I got several really fine thank you notes. We still have 2XL and medium jackets available for a good home. Call me if you want one.

On June 19, I received a text from Don Mercer announcing the Facebook post saying Courtenay Welton had passed away the day before. Courtenay’s sister Lynn made the announcement. The obit was published July 7. “[Retired U.S. Army] Lieutenant Colonel Courtenay Sommerville Welton II passed away June 18, 2024, surrounded by family in Richmond, Virginia. Born Sept. 1, 1947, and then raised in The Fan, Courtenay was a quintessential son of Richmond. Courtenay then resided in Northern Virginia, where he worked for the Department of Defense while also serving honorably in the U.S. Army Reserve as a distinguished public affairs officer and specialist. He returned to his beloved hometown after retirement. A graduate of Virginia Military Institute, Class of 1969, Courtenay cherished his alma mater, amassing a sizable collection of school-related memorabilia and article clippings over the years. He also valued his fellow “brother rats,” regularly meeting with other alumni in the Richmond area. Outside his alumni circle, Courtenay was admired by his neighbors and often referred to as the unofficial ‘mayor’ of the neighborhood. There was not a face he did not know nor a canine companion that

did not receive a treat upon encounter. He enjoyed walking his own beloved Norwich terrier, Clara, while surveying the neighborhood and talking to passersby. Courtenay enjoyed travel and cooking, and he was never without a tale from his travels or an opportunity to share a recipe or dish with friends. He kept a chef’s kitchen and was never without an in-season Hanover tomato (pronounced ‘toMAHto’). In addition to cooking, Courtenay was a skilled photographer, filling photographic libraries with color and culture. To know Courtenay was to receive a clipped article from him. He read multiple newspapers daily and maintained a vast library of articles and recipes of interest. He shared relevant articles via mail and doorstep to friends and family when they were relevant to the recipient. Courtenay did not stop at consuming articles, however. He contributed countless letters to editors, as well as maintained two-way communication with printed journalists. Courtenay is survived by his children, Courtenay Sommerville Welton III “Corey” and Kirsten Welton Shields; three grandchildren, Ayden Welton, Hailey Shields, and Heidi Shields; and his sister, Lynn Welton. A service at Arlington National Cemetery will take place at a later date.” Lynn and Courtenay’s daughter, Kirsten, set Aug. 9 for Courtenay’s remembrance time/wake, and several attended: Bob and Ruth Waldo, Mike Santoro, Bruce Gregory, and Thornton Newlon. Other graduates from various classes joined Courtenay’s son, daughter, and sister at the afternoon get-together.

Soon after, I received notice from daughter Rachel that BR George Lester had died. “George William Lester of Waynesboro, Virginia, departed this life at 4 a.m. Friday, June 22, 2024. He was born Feb. 4, 1947, in Waynesboro at the old hospital on West Main Street. He graduated with the Class of 1965 at Waynesboro High School. He maintained friendships with many of his classmates as an adult and enjoyed visiting them at their reunions. He next graduated from Virginia Military Institute as a member of the Class of 1969, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He was also commissioned as a reserve officer in the United States Army upon graduation from VMI. He then began his 34-year career as an engineer with E.I. DuPont de Nemours and Co. at the Waynesboro plant after graduation. He was called to active duty in 1970 and served with the U.S. Army Engineer Corps in Vietnam from 1971–72 as a first lieutenant. Upon discharge, he returned to DuPont in Waynesboro until he retired Feb. 1, 2003. He immediately returned to the plant as a contract engineer for 6 more years. George was

a registered professional engineer in Virginia and a life member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers. He was also a 20-year member of the American Legion at Post 340. George married Donna A. Falls, who survives, of Waynesboro, Virginia, May 15, 1970, in the Hermitage Presbyterian Church by the Rev. Warren Brannon. She was the love of his life as evidenced by their recent 54th wedding anniversary. They had two children, W.Clark Lester (Barbara Cermak, wife) of Waynesboro, Virginia, and Rachel Erin Lester Grant (Jeremy Grant, husband) of Davie, Florida. Their step-grandchildren are Paige Baedke of Blacksburg, Virginia; Chris Grant of Panama City, Florida; and Peyton Grant of Offutt AFB, Nebraska. George attended Hermitage Presbyterian Church. His interests were vacationing in Florida, the Great American West, and Williamsburg, Virginia. He enjoyed reading historical books and visiting historical sites. He was a lifelong fan of the VMI Keydets, Boston Red Sox, and Washington Redskins. He enjoyed watching them on TV and in person. George was the son of the late William Louis Lester and Wanda Diehl Lester of Waynesboro, Virginia. His roots extend back to the early Scots Irish, English, and German settlers of the great Valley of Virginia. His two siblings are Cathy Lester and Timothy Charles Lester. George is survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews. A graveside service was conducted in Augusta Memorial Park Saturday, June 29. Following the graveside service, a church service and visitation with the family was held at the Hermitage Presbyterian Church.” After the service, we as a class sent a scarf to Donna with our class logo, and she really appreciated it.

from that class. I recommend reading it for its historical background but am awaiting a followup with names of other successful BRs from that class. I understand it is an author’s prerogative to focus on anyone she wants, but I found the lack of more notable BRs’ stories a little disconcerting.

On May 18 in Crozet, Virginia, Brant Collins, Sam Higginbotham, and Bill Ellerman attended Frank Huger’s celebration of life memorial picnic.

In May, I received a copy of “Lives Guided by Honor,” a new book about the VMI Class of 1968 written by Dr. Mayling Simpson, wife of Paul Hebert ’68. The book is partly an anthropology-oriented look at VMI with an emphasis on how and why it started and partly a biography of several selected BRs

Five BRs gathered for lunch and baseball June 27 in Norfolk. Bobby Watts, Drew Brantley, Webb Hatch, Gary Mackey, and Bob Flowers enjoyed lunch and conversation on the rainy afternoon.

After, I thanked Joe Flanz for making a gift to the Virginia War Memorial in honor of our BRs killed in wartime. Joe replied: “Michie is well. She recently returned from a trip to Japan. Thanks to our perfect timing, she was there when the dollar was at its peak. We intend to go together back to the land of the rising sun in November to finish a trip we had planned, but I had to cancel because of back surgery. In a brief aside, the granddaughter of one of my Army friends has just completed her rat year. She is delighted to be at VMI, and I think will be a great cadet. She has a head start, as I gave her my garrison cap badge as a link to the Class of ’69. Maybe she will not get boned as often as I did.” Scott Rhodes in Great Falls, Montana. “God took pity on us and blessed us with a relatively mild winter (only 3 days of 35 below temps). Summer’s heat has not descended on us yet. “Highs mostly in the mid to upper-70s so far. We will go over to my son, Jeremy’s, house later today for a Fourth of July cookout. I just got back from Spain. My two oldest grandsons and I went over to help a Christian school over there with some building renovations. We were there for 8 days. Most of our time was spent doing highly unskilled labor such as tearing down sheetrock and painting. I figured this would be my last chance to go on a mission trip and really wanted the boys to have the experience of being in a different culture. We did a little sightseeing while there. The boys especially liked the tour we took of an old castle in Segovia and touring the state-of-the-art (1.2 billion euros worth) sports facility of the Real Madrid soccer team. They are big soccer fans. Well, I think that about covers it from Big Sky country.”

V.J. Petrella sent a photo of a cream-colored 1967 VW bug. It is still around and is a fun keeper from yesteryear. “I always wanted to drive down

Class of 1969: At a Norfolk Tides baseball game in June 2024 are (from left) Bobby Watts, Webb Hatch, Drew Brantley, Bob Flowers, and (standing) Gary Mackey.

Class of 1969: John Ishon is honored by the MCV Foundation for his support of the VCU Movement Center in Richmond, Virginia. Pictured are Bruce Gregory, Walt Judd, John Sebrell, Bunny Paulette, Mike Santoro, Bruce Noel, John Jumper ’66, John Ishon, Anne Cabot Galeski (Ishon’s daughter), Jane Garnet Brown (Ishon’s daughter), and Charlie Bryan.

to VMI and reproduce again the picture I took of the car that I left VMI in on graduation day in 1969. I was trying to get a then/now comparison picture. I guess this is the next best thing. The 1967 VW has been my car ever since. Through Virginia Tech, 3 years on active duty, law school, and all my careers. It was my buddy even before Margi and I were married 53 years ago. Time sure flies!”

Paul Curs gave an interview about RVN actions. When the young guy (the interviewer on his website) learned that I had been the PRAIRIE FIRE FAC over the last SOG HALO combat jump of the Vietnam War (way back Oct. 11, 1971) he asked me to be interviewed for his program, “Reconnaissance Cast.” The interview took place about 3 weeks ago (late May 2024). Several other PRAIRIE FIRE FACs have been interviewed since.

In early August, I received this email message. “My name is Margaret (Luckett) Sellers. My father was Hayward Douglas “Doug” Luckett III. He was a graduate of the VMI Class of 1969. I apologize for the very large delay, but I wanted to inform you that, unfortunately, Daddy passed away June 19, 2023. His health had already been declining, but after a bad fall down the stairs, his body was unable to recover from the trauma. Doug was married to Ruth Crowell Luckett, whom he met when she was a student at Southern Seminary. They met on a blind date at Sem and were married for 53 years. Doug and Ruth lived outside of Atlanta (Marietta) for the last 40plus years. They are survived by me and my sister, Elizabeth McMullan, as well as six wonderful grandchildren. We would have let you know about Doug sooner, but unfortunately, Ruth took a massive decline after Daddy died, and she passed away this June (almost exactly 1 year to the day after Doug). You can imagine that it has been a very difficult year for our family. I know Daddy was not as active in alumni affairs as he certainly could have been, but VMI always held a very special place in his heart and around our house growing up. His father, my grandfather, Hayward Douglas Luckett Jr. [’935], also graduated from VMI in the Class of 1935. Doug did serve in the military soon after he married Ruth in 1970. They started their time at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas, before being moved to Bamberg, Germany. He was stationed over there in Germany for roughly 2 years. He majored in engineering at VMI and then went on to work as a structural engineer for his entire career. He worked predominantly for John Portman in Atlanta and then for Lockwood, Greene. It was his absolute joy and passion to be an engineer.”

Class Notes

We are certainly lucky to have Jim Chapman as our class treasurer. He manages the funds we have collected through the years to take care of incidental expenses. Like what, you ask? We support a small award fee for the outstanding USAF ROTC graduate honoring the legacy of our BR Jack Kennedy. Jim also donates to some VMI fund in memory of each BR as we learn about their passing. Keydet Club, class scholarships, the Foundation: All come into play depending on what the BR was interested in. And occasionally, a bill associated with a reunion. In the past, we had some funds remaining after some event, and we owed some after others. He keeps it all straight. We normally keep no funds with the VMI Alumni Association after a reunion.

In the Spirit, Walt

(Editor’s Note: On page 98 of the 2024-Issue 3 Alumni Review, the following sentence should have read: “Retired state Sen. Tommy Norment ’68 spoke about the growth of VMI during his time in the General Assembly and encouraged current cadets to consider public service to the community by running for office in local governments.” We apologize for this error.)

1970

Steve Talley

Hello, Brother Rats, Family, and Friends of the VMI Class of 1970,

I am wrapping up these notes on the morning of Aug. 14 on a sunlit day in the Shenandoah Valley. On Aug. 17, about 500 new cadets will sign the Matriculation Book as the future Class of 2028— future class because BR Cameron Seay reminded me that a Rat Mass is not a bonafide class until it does its first Old Yell sometime in early 2025. On Aug. 24, the Corps will return to VMI, and Aug. 31, after 2 weeks of fun-filled “orientation,” the Rat Mass will visit the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford to learn about the sacrifices made by Allied soldiers during the invasion of Normandy June 6, 1944. They will hear about the incredible loss of life that impacted the small community of Bedford, as well as so many communities and families across America, including mine. How is that for a start to a VMI cadetship!

Cameron and wife Mary made a 6,400-mile bucket list road trip to visit the Canadian Rockies in the vicinity of the Vermillion Lakes with their

crystal blue waters, Lake Louise and Bow, Peyto, Moraine, and Maligne Lakes, along the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper. “We had a grand time seeing in person what beforehand we could only imagine in our mind’s eyes. The views from atop Sulphur Mountain were spectacular, as was the wildlife encountered along the way. We got to see all this just weeks before summer fires devastated countless square miles of wilderness and leveled close to 40% of the town of Jasper. We praise the Lord for our eyes and His timing.”

When you read these notes, the VMI Keydet footballers will have returned to post and played well into its schedule. On Aug. 2–4, VMI hosted its third annual football reunion, welcoming about 130 former team members back to post. They dined with the team, attended team meetings, and watched practice sessions and a live scrimmage.

A magnificent sight: 119 young men, new guys and veterans, scholarship awardees and walk-ons, preparing for gridiron battle. After the scrimmage, the former players huddled with the team around Coach Rocco. He called his players gentlemen, congratulated them on their choice to come to VMI, and reminded them that football was a hard game to play and that one needed to prepare oneself, practice, play with intensity, stay focused, and never give up. That was a sight: Young and old former players on the field, many big stars of their time, gathered in one big group. What a way to get the 2024 season underway and prepare for the opening game against William & Mary Aug. 29! Go Keydets.

Former player Al Soltis ’79 brought together a steering committee to plan this event, which included Lee Moon and me from our class. Al’s enthusiasm and hard work paid off. He was there for the entire show, cheerleading, organizing, and keeping folks on schedule. As a result of his effort and others, the reunion was a big success.

One notable attendee was Bobby Ross ’59, our rat team coach in 1966. After VMI, Ross served as head coach at four prominent Division I colleges, including Georgia Tech, which he guided to a national championship in 1990. He was head coach with the NFL Detroit Lions and the San Diego Chargers, which he coached to an appearance in Super Bowl XXIX. Coach Ross has a heart as big as Texas. He is a good, kind, gentle, and honorable man who remembers people. After reaching the pinnacle of success in American football, Aug. 3, 2024, at 88, he was back at VMI, where it all started for him. What a classic VMI story!

In June, Gray “Stix” Chandler, the guy with the notable mustache, and wife, Nancy, went to Virginia by train to attend a Memorial Day service in Clarksville, Virginia, Stix’s hometown. The

guest speaker was Stix’s first cousin, Randolph Williams ’66. Billy Willis ’71, who married another first cousin, Dyan Pittard Willis, also attended. The Chandlers gathered with other cousins in the area. From the pictures Stix sent me, it appears that about half the population of Clarksville are his cousins. On Saturday afternoon, the entourage went to the Woodbine Winery at Buffalo Junction, where all had a good time after a couple of bottles of wine and field dancing. I’m sure Stix and Nancy led the way on the dancing, and I wonder if that was a couple of bottles of wine per person.

Jonathan Vordermark reported from Taos, New Mexico, in late May, where summer finally arrived, with sparse rain and forest fires already firing up. Jonathan watched the Class of 2024 commencement ceremony online. He said he was very impressed with the speeches of the valedictorian, Virginia Townsend ’24; the class president, John Cole Cathcart ’24; and guest speaker, Ryan D. McCarthy ’96, the 24th Secretary of the U.S. Army. McCarthy, who has a degree in history from VMI, shared his story about being the first person from his family to graduate from college and how he went from an undisciplined cadet to a leader who served in combat in Afghanistan and at the highest levels of government and industry.

A quintessential VMI success story! You can boot up the YouTube video of the commencement to see for yourself what a grand school we attended.

“Also impressive was hearing the academic majors and accomplishments of the graduating 1st Class.” To cap it off, Jon watched portions of the commissioning ceremonies and felt gratified to see the number of graduates entering the service, including a large Marine and Navy contingent. An excellent report on the Institute! Rah Virginia Mil. Jon has become quite the artist in his retirement.

On Aug. 23–25, Jon will be the guest artist at the Blumenschein Museum, exhibiting his works in one of his many eclectic modalities, “New Mexico Geological Formations.”

Dick Cheatham wrote about his excellent wife, Patti, who went out to California to care for her

mother and brother. During her stay, doctors diagnosed her brother with cancer, and he passed away while she was there. “She has finally come home. My wife is back!” Brother Rat Cheatham’s command of Virginia history is magnificent, as evidenced by his portrayals of historical figures. In January, at the University of Virginia, Dick portrayed John Tyler, our 10th president. Tyler was elected vice president in 1840, assumed the presidency upon the death of President William Henry Harrison, and remained president until 1845.

“Those dates coincide with the tenure of the first class of students at VMI, our alma mater. Tyler lawyered in Richmond for Edmund Randolph, the first attorney general of the United States, who served in George Washington’s administration and later as secretary of state. Tyler was also the first attorney general of the Commonwealth of Virginia and the governor of the Commonwealth. Randolph’s daughter was Edmonia Randolph, whose son was our J.T.L. Preston.” Small world back then!

On his birthday April 14, Dick took two friends to New Market and came back to Staunton, my hometown, where they stayed at the Blackburn Inn and had a birthday dinner with the two friends and Joel and Teresa Salatin, who own Polyface Farm north of Lexington in Augusta County. Joel and Teresa have become quite famous by implementing innovative farming practices at Polyface and traveling the world to tell people about them. In May, Dick and Patti and Joel and Teresa went to a live concert of Leonid & Friends in Roanoke. The day after the concert, the entire band entourage toured Polyface and had dinner with Joel, his family, and staff.

In early July, when mere mortals like me were burning up in the stifling heat of Western Virginia, Terry Sue and Lannie Gault ’71, Herb and Susan Braun, Carl and Julie Strock, and Tom and Jill Cooke dashed to Christmas Cove, Maine, where they lounged around in 70-degree weather, ate lots of lobster, and had what Herb described as a “Big Chill” atmosphere all week. The 1983 movie “Big Chill” that is, during which, “A once

Class of 1970: Phil Brandt and Ned Haley in Richmond, Virginia, April 2, 2024.

Class of 1970: Ash Ormes, Bob Candido, Al Johnson, Mike Carruth, Bob “Fuzzy” Patrick, Paul Munch, and Chad Lash at Mike’s American restaurant in Springfield, Virginia, May 17, 2024.

Class of 1970: Carl Strock’s family, friends, brother rats, and colleagues celebrate Carl’s induction into the 82nd Airborne Hall of Heroes at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, May 22, 2024.

close-knit gang of friends meets for a weekend, confronting the personal truths, sacrifices, and betrayals that have left them disenchanted. Each contended with unresolved issues they have with one another.” Pretty heavy stuff for a bunch of old VMI alums. They probably had plenty of adult beverages to get them through the hard therapy sessions.

On May 22 at Fort Liberty (formerly Bragg), Russ and Nancy Marshall, Wilder Wadford, Diehl and Patricia Jones, Bill and Daisy Davis, Bill and Barbara Scherer, Lew and Judy Reynolds, George Ritko, Peel Dillard, Herbert Braun, A.C. Arnn, Emily and I, and Meade King ’85 attended a magnificent ceremony during which the 82nd Airborne inducted seven new members into the All American Hall of Fame. That group included Carl Strock. Julie, Carl’s wife, was also present. Initial members of the 82nd, formed in 1917, came from all 48 states; thus, the unit acquired the nickname “All American,” and all its members proudly wear its famed “A.A.” shoulder patch. The ceremony was riveting and uplifting from start to finish. The superb 82nd All American Chorus performed patriotic songs, including the “All-American Soldier” and the “Army Song.” This talented group travels about performing, supporting soldiers and their families, educating communities about music, and participating in recruiting initiatives. We had “premium” seats under the big tent and watched Carl and the other inductees meet and greet one another, families, and friends and reminisce. Plenty of smiles and laughter! It was a sight to behold. The division’s Light Tanker Brigade was there as a group, providing raucous commentary and much laughter and goodwill.

Afterward, our entourage gathered nearby at Diehl and Patricia’s home for refreshments. Festivities included story swapping by Carl and Wilder, who won the award for best tale with one about his dog, Brutus. It goes like this. Wilder occasionally lets Brutus run loose in this tiny hamlet of 4,600. In such forays, he terrifies some townsfolk, which is understandable given Brutus’ name and the fact that he is a rather ugly 100-pound, gray, muscle-bound pit bull. On one occasion, in broad daylight, a dog fitting the description of a rather ugly 100-pound, gray, muscle-bound pit bull maimed a small dog owned by a local politician, who called the animal control officer, who arrested Brutus and carted him away to stand trial, at which our BR Wadford, the simple country lawyer hired by Brutus to represent him, presented several character witnesses who testified Brutus did not have a mean bone in his body, is friendly with other dogs, and doesn’t chase cats. Then

BR Wilder provided an alibi for his mangy best friend, that being, at the time of the crime, Brutus was hanging out at the local bakery begging for biscuits from children who pulled his ears, much to their delight. Wilder cross-examines several eyewitnesses and presents them with a picture of Tiki, another local, rather ugly 100-pound, gray, muscle-bound pit bull known to chase the neighbors up a tree occasionally. Under oath, they all say the dog in that picture committed the crime. “What a surprise when I tell the judge the perpetrator is not Brutus but Tiki. The judge bangs his gavel, declares Brutus innocent, and issues an arrest warrant for Tiki, who ultimately is banished to a farm two counties away where he cannot harm anyone. However, the judge admonishes Wilder and says Brutus can no longer run free and must stay home to avoid trouble.” Well, we will see about that. You cannot make this stuff up. I have thought a lot about that day at Liberty, one I will never forget. As I watched these events unfold, I thought about how complicated international affairs and global conflict considerations must be. But a simple, uncomplicated truth came to mind, which is that there are bad guys in the world, perpetrating misery and mayhem, and in front of me at Fort Liberty May 22 stood a group of guys willing to mobilize at the moment’s notice and give their lives if necessary to protect Americans and suppressed people worldwide. We should all be grateful for their service.

Speaking of A.C. Arnn, this nut still works for a living. One of his projects is at Liberty, where he was attending meetings at Simmons Army Airfield and the Range 79 Tank Gunnery Range, from which he snuck away to attend Carl’s coronation, oops, I mean induction. Carl and A.C. were stationed together at Liberty after VMI. A.C. reported that Jim Mawyer came down to Burlington

in early July to play golf, “but due to the heat, we only got one round in and managed to stay cool by visiting the Red Oak Beer Hall close to Burlington.” Why does that not surprise me? At the end of July, A.C. and his wife, Beth, went to the Outer Banks, where they hooked up with Larry Thompson. He plans to attend Jim’s North Carolina Outer Banks brother rat gaggle in October! I will be reporting on that affair in future notes. Finally, the Arnns will return to the Rhine River during Thanksgiving and stay until mid-December to visit the Christmas markets and partake in more beer and wine. “It keeps the joints loose for the golf course,” says A.C. Well, that explains the Red Oak Beer Hall visit.

Bob, aka Fuzzy, Patrick wrote to tell me about a lunch he shared May 17 with BRs Ash Ormes, Bob Candido, Al Johnson, Mike Carruth, Paul Munch, and Chad Lash at Mike’s American restaurant in Springfield, Virginia, for the second annual VMI Class of ’70 graduation day luncheon celebration. “We met a year ago and decided to make it a named and annual event.” That’s what I’m talking about—a VMI 1970 mini reunion on graduation day! “It was a delightful time with nonstop conversations that started with ‘Remember the time’ ... and nothing about today’s problems. It was all about good times at VMI and tales of our youth, which I think we appreciated. We all also seemed in pretty good shape [for a bunch of old geezers]. By chance, a young man stopped at our table to introduce himself as a Class of 2026 cadet. He told us he had been at graduation the day before and was astounded to learn we had also been there 54 years ago! We didn’t linger long, as it was naptime for some of us, but we decided to do it again next year.” Bob ended by extending an invitation to all Class of ’70 BRs to attend, and of course, it will always be May 17. I intended to be there this

Class of 1970: Dick and Patti Cheatham with Joel and Teresa Salatin, along with family, staff, and members of the band Leonid & Friends at Polyface Farm in Swoope, Virginia, May 14, 2024.

year but could not make it. I’m sure sorry I missed out on the fun. I will certainly be there next year if I’m still walking around above ground.

Ben Morris is up next. He and Valerie now live in Gilroy, California, in Eagle Ridge, about a mile from their daughter, Tamara, and family, so they see the grandkids more often. Ben and Valerie are both battling health issues, so being closer to their daughter is a blessing and very helpful. In February, Valerie had a stroke that caused balance and memory issues. She was hospitalized for a week and spent a month in a rehab nursing facility. She also tore a ligament in her shoulder when she fell from the stroke. Ben is doing his duty as a caretaker, driving, cooking, and helping in any way he can. He has mobility problems with CMT but is managing OK, he says. Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a severe, heritable nerve disorder that causes damage to the nerves that transmit information and signals from the brain and spinal cord to and from the rest of the body, as well as sensory information, such as touch, back to the spinal cord and brain. It is progressive. Ben does not think they will be able to return to our next reunion, but they look forward to seeing pictures. Keep Ben and Valerie in your thoughts—and good on you, Ben, for caring for your soul mate.

scheduled a fourth one soon. If they determine the tumor is growing slowly, they will recommend no treatments. If, however, it is growing fast, they will likely offer radiation treatment.

about 40 folks gathered to “send off” another pack of five rats to VMI: Evan Lilly, Ash King, Aiden Shoop, Chad Biby, and Drake Garrison. The crowd consisted of VMI alums, parents, and friends of VMI. Cameron Seay and I were there representing 1970. Cameron, the Valley Chapter president, introduced the potential new cadets and described VMI as no ordinary college. He talked about the bond one develops with brother rats and the alum network that exists to help one another navigate a VMI life journey. Justin Tammelin ’09, VMI Alumni Association director of alumni engagement, was there cheering the prospective new cadets on while thinking about his wife, who will give birth to their third baby the next day. Welcome to the fold.

And finally, this “bad news, good news” but ultimately uplifting story from Ted Durvin. Some time ago, doctors diagnosed Ted with a particular flavor of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, which is still lurking in the background, “as it always will until it finally wins. For now, it thankfully continues to grow slowly, and my life is primarily unaffected except for frequent scans, treatments, and doctor visits. They will remain part of my life until they don’t.” So, for now, Ted is doing the winning. His new challenge is that doctors recently diagnosed a relatively large (think, walnut), non-malignant brain tumor—something called a schwannoma (not to be confused with Swannanoa, the Italianate marble villa that sits high atop the Blue Ridge Mountains in Afton, Virginia). The tumor is located deep in the brain, between the two cortexes, and not easily accessible for surgery or radiation without risking collateral damage. For now, Ted’s only symptoms are frequent headaches and occasional vertigo. These kinds of tumors are usually slow growing, but Ted’s doctors have administered a battery of three MRIs working to determine just how fast the “bugger” is growing. They have

Ted says the MRIs are tons of fun. “They put a helmet gadget on your head and screw it into the examination table so you can’t move. For an hour, they bombard you with magnetic pulses while you lie in what looks like a torpedo tube. I recommend it for any Saturday night when you’re bored. So, in the last 4 years, I have given half a kidney to renal carcinoma, begun lifelong treatment for incurable lymphoma, and been told that I have a brain tumor. Life is a bowl of cherries.” Or is life a chair of bowlies?

This seemingly dire situation is not stopping BR Ted from getting on with life. On a recent phone call, he told me he is happily playing the cards fate dealt him and that he lives life to the fullest every day—no time for crying in your beer. I tried to pull a fast one on him and complain about my various maladies but held back and decided to drink in his admirable optimism.

Rat send-offs. On July 20, about 30 VMI grads, family, and friends gathered at the Charlottesville home of Forrest and David Mitchell ’95 to “send off” new cadets. Jim Duncan ’98, Charlottesville Chapter president, served as master of ceremonies and welcomed the new cadets and families. Forrest and David graciously offered up a quintessential southern luncheon—lip-smacking barbeque, cornbread, baked beans, iced sweet tea, and all the trimmings. The Class of 1970 was well represented, with Ken Schlussel, Mike Iwanik, Don McQueen, and me attending. Welcome to the fold new cadets Aidan Weaver, Jamie Rodriguez, and Evelyn Anderson. Good luck. On Aug. 7, at the Cracked Pillar Pub in Bridgewater, Virginia,

And now, in the words of our dear departed former class agent Warren Grasty, “In the spirit.” Don’t forget our next reunion.

1971

David Ellington

As the clock of life ticks inexorably on and we reach three-quarters of a century of age, we can’t escape the reality of the loss of friends, family, and our brother rats. Being your class agent has been a wonderful experience, as I have had a chance to reconnect with many and actually connect with others of you who seemed to have been in a different universe of interests and experiences from those in which I was involved during our time together from 1967–71 at the Institute. The worst aspect of the job is notifying you of the death of one of our BRs or their loved ones. It was with great regret that I had to send the news of the deaths of two of our BRs in the last quarter, Oscar Padgett and Tom Loizzi

The Big O was another quiet, steady, and reliable friend to all who knew him. He never met a stranger. After VMI, he became involved in building swimming pools and then evolved into developing and selling real estate, all in his hometown of Bedford. His final project, which he enjoyed immensely, was a ride service. Oscar battled several health issues in the past several years but had

Class of 1970: Gray “Stix” Chandler and cousins in Clarksville, Virginia, May 27, 2024.

tremendous support from his family, friends, and BRs. A fitting manifestation of the respect his friends had for Oscar was the large turnout of BRs at this funeral. Attending the visitation were Jerry Acuff, Tommy Lawson, and Herb Whitley, with Jerry supplying a red, white and yellow flower arrangement on behalf of our class. Emery Baya was a pallbearer at the funeral, with Bob Pickral, Bob Lockridge, Sam Kirby, Jim Westbrook, Martha and Dave Kennedy, Gene and Bob Haywood, and Buddy Bryan also in attendance. Hunter Mays wrote, remembering the 3 years they played baseball with each other at VMI after playing against each other in high school and serving as a groomsman in Oscar’s wedding.

As I wrote in the notification of Tom Loizzi’s death, I passed by his home of Salina, Kansas, 1 day before he died while on a round-trip road trip to Colorado. The fact that he lived in Salina was lost to me until I learned of his death. As Mike Strickland noted, Tom was one of a contingent of nine BRs who matriculated from the Portsmouth area (Fred Banister, Mike Guffey, John Guthrie, Jimmy Heeley, Skull Turner, Herb Whitley, Steve Otwell, Strickland, and Loizzi). What is amazing is that 100% of this cohort graduated on time! Tom played football for 4 years at VMI and graduated with a degree in biology. After graduation, he moved to Denver, where he worked for Johns Manville for a 30-plus year career as a manager in technical services. After retiring, he worked in consulting, teaching, and coaching. Later in life, he took up fly fishing, in which he became very proficient. His favorite activity was playing with and watching over his grandchildren, as one could easily see his joy in the pictures accompanying his obituary. Of interest is that the “headshot” pictures used in both Oscar’s and Tom’s official obituaries were their VMI 1st Class Bomb pictures in white blouses. Rest in peace, brother rats. Also on the trip out West, I had the opportunity to share a couple hours of conversation with John Nelsen over coffee at a Barnes & Noble bookstore in Kansas City. Many may not remember, but right after we graduated in May 1971, John was awarded the Hughes Army Trophy for the top Army ROTC graduate in the country for Year Group 1971. It was awarded in D.C. by the thenchief of staff of the Army, Gen. Westmoreland.

This was 1 year after Pete Van Hooser had received a similar honor awarded to the top Marine ROTC student in the country. John subsequently spent 30 years of active duty in the Army infantry, ending up serving in command or on staff at every level of the Army, including several tours in Europe serving at the platoon, company, battalion, division, corps, and field Army level. Drawing on his experience in leadership at the command level, he also filled several strategic planning staff positions in NATO. John then had

the opportunity to teach European and military history at West Point, serve as an adjunct associate professor at the Army War College, and enjoy a final assignment as a full professor (strategy & operations) on the faculty of the National War College. After retirement in 2001, he worked for Booz Allen Hamilton for another 21-plus years as a defense consultant, initially in designing and improving operations centers among numerous departments and agencies, afterward planning and resourcing defense security cooperation team efforts in around 40 countries in all the combatant command regions. As a student at the Army War College, he was honored with having his required course paper blessed by Forrest Pogue, biographer of Gen. Marshall ’901, and published by the school’s Strategic Studies Institute (it addressed George Marshall’s vision for the period, 1939–41). Jon finally retired for good in 2022 and subsequently moved to Overland Park, Kansas. He has slowed down a little but is currently working on a book about Civil War operating functions, organization, and special features as a bucket list project. John’s successes should come as no surprise. I can vividly remember sitting in our European history class as rats and listening to John and John Adams arguing about the successes and failures of German versus Russian armor tactics in the Battle of Kursk in World War II. While many of the rest of us in the section looked and listened in abject bewilderment, Col. Bausum just nodded sagely and let the debate continue. John was ahead of the game even then. As I watched the Tour de France and the Olympics, I couldn’t help but continue to be amazed by the group that are still avid bicyclists at age 75! The group of Rick Littleton, Herb Whitley, and Van Jolissaint continue to burn up the bike paths in Western and Central Virginia on a weekly basis. I recently joined them on a ride on the Chessie Trail between Lexington and Buena Vista. A good time was had, plenty of stories told. The veteran riders seemed unfazed by the ride ... I was exhausted. D Walton is still active on the trails around Richmond, including a 77-mile trek on the MS Colonial charity ride from Richmond to Williamsburg June 1. Not to be outdone, Will Wickun finished the RATPOD 2024 (interesting name), a 126.6-mile ride up, down, and around the Pioneer Mountains just west of

Class of 1971: D Walton and Tom Saunders, a graduate of the University of Richmond, after completing a bicycle ride from Richmond to Williamsburg, Virginia, June 1.

Class of 1971: Participating in the golf tournament at the Keydet Club Leadership Outing in June 2024 are (from left) Jim Gearhart, Zeke Ellington, Dave Kennedy, Buddy Bryan, Mike Strickler, and Dan Czupryna.

Yellowstone Park in Montana, all in one day! The event included a couple of 6-mile climbs with 3.54% grades. Remember, this was at a pretty high altitude and not a leisurely ride around the Parade Ground, to be sure. The ride supports Camp Mak-A-Dream, a camp for children in Montana suffering from cancer. Will was very grateful for all who sponsored him in support of this cause. The RAGBRAI bicycle ride across Iowa just finished in early August but have no report at this time from Corn Biggs if he rode this year or not. I am going out on a limb now, perhaps a bit prematurely, but ... it appears that the title holders for the Lowell Thomas king and queen of travel, Lanny and Terry Sue Gault, may now have to share the torch with two new co-standard bearers, Bill and Margaret Ginder. I received several pictures and notes from Bill, starting with him enjoying himself quaffing a cold Kölsch in Cologne, moving on to Würzburg, then culminating the trip by meeting John Pate ’74 in Hungary and finally back to Dallas, where he and Jim Neikirk attended the local rat send-off. In addition to his travels, BR Ginder has to be accorded some type of recognition for his collection of bib coveralls honoring the Institute by being decorated in red, white, and yellow themes and symbols. My only question is, coming from Dallas, does Nieman Marcus carry this brand of attire, and how can we get some?

Lannie and Terry Sue Gault did travel to Lexington in June for the annual Keydet Club Leadership Outing, golf tourney, and supper. Although they did not engage in the golf event, they did both attend the evening supper with Ken and Marie Coleman, Dan and Lori Czupryna, and other attendees, BRs Bryan, Gearhart, Kennedy, Strickler, and yours truly. A good time was had by all, and buoyed by the fact that some of us now qualify for the “senior tees,” we had more fun and our scores were better!

On a different note, I received the following from Tom Martenstein on this year’s 80th anniversary of the landing in Normandy on D-Day. “Echo Company brother rats at the Vierville-sur-Mer exit off Omaha Beach during the visit in September 2023. This was where the 116th Infantry Regiment of the 29th Division (VANG) suffered a significant number of casualties on the first day of the D-Day invasion.”

About a month after receiving this, there was a lengthy article in the local Lexington newspaper regarding the gift to the VMI Museum of the 29th Division shoulder patch, Purple Heart medal, and several other mementos from the family of Benjamin Rives Kearfott ’43, a brother rat of my father’s, Bob Pickral’s father, and Rives Potts’

father. Kearfott was a lieutenant in A Company of the 116th and one of the commanders on landing craft 1015, the very first landing craft to land on Omaha Beach, or as Col. Keith Gibson ’77 described in accepting the medals from Lt. Kearfott’s family, he was at the very “tip of the spear” of D-Day. Within minutes of landing, it is reported that every man on landing craft 1015, except one, was dead. Two other VMI alumni, Lt. Freeling Colt ’938 of the 101st Airborne Division and Coxswain Arnold Ewell ’46, died in the June

6 assault in Normandy. Tom sent the picture on this year’s 80th anniversary of the landing. The picture had been taken during a 5-day visit to the region in September 2023. Tom also provided a bit of an update on his fellow travelers. Don Brown has retired from his accounting firm in Raleigh, North Carolina, and is enjoying retirement there. Mal Kerley retired from a long and very distinguished career with the Virginia Department of Highways and then a brief stint as a consultant. Every time I drive the roads of South Carolina or Colorado, I am extremely thankful for the job Mal and our state highway department does maintaining the roads of the Commonwealth. Travel to some of these other states, and you will quickly realize how fortunate we are. Tom Martenstein retired from the practice of law about 7 years ago, remains in Richmond, and states, “All is going well.”

Speaking of D-Day, Rives Potts sent me a copy of a speech given by Richard Hines ’66 in Atlanta on the 80th anniversary of D-Day. It talks about four VMI men, Gens. Marshall, Patton ’907, Puller ’921, and Jumper ’66, and the influence they each had in World War II and the present times. It is an incredible read.

In one of those out-of-nowhere episodes one afternoon, I got a message from Buster Venable saying he was going to be in the area for a short while and wondered if we could get together. Along with Jerry Acuff and Wayne Hepler, Buster matriculated from the Cocoa Beach, Merritt Island area, of Florida. All were on football scholarships. I actually roomed with Buster during preseason practice our rat year with Jim Burg ’68. Buster left VMI after Christmas our 1st Class year and returned to Florida, where he subsequently graduated from the University of Central Florida with a degree in communications. After college, Buster changed directions again and became involved in the building business as a general contractor, building homes in the Naples, Florida, area. As the building industry hit bottom in 2008–11, Buster pivoted again, this time following up on an interest and hobby that his father had first provided introduction, restoring 356 Porsches. Buster credits his father for the introduction not only to Porsche restorations, but also to the other things he has most enjoyed in life: Golf, airplanes, football. Buster moved from home construction to owning and operating 356 Unlimited, LLC, a thriving business of restoring old 356 Porsches. He ran this business for several years before selling the business to a former customer. Now, Buster is “one of the happiest men in Florida,” back in Cocoa Beach, spending time “playing golf, building an airplane, and caring for his dog.” Through all of this, Buster looks as if he just stepped out of

Class of 1971: Pictured at a rat send-off in Dallas, Texas, in summer 2024 are Bill Ginder; Nate Peacock, a member of the Rat Mass of 2025+3; Robert Tysdal, a member of the Rat Mass of 2025+3; and Jim Neikirk.

Class of 1971: Meredith Barkley and his friend celebrate the last 10 kilometers of their hike on the Camino de Santiago.

his high school yearbook!

Even though we are all at or past the 75-year mark, we remain a very lively and active bunch. Not a man to spend his days at home watching TV, I got a note, then a couple of follow-ups and more information on a fascinating adventure undertaken by Meredith Barkley. Many of us have heard of the Camino de Santiago, or Way of St. James to Santiago, Spain, in the province of Galicia in Northwest Spain. There are several different paths or trails starting throughout Western Europe, but they all end at the cathedral of Santiago, where tradition states that the remains of Saint James are interred. Several hundred thousand pilgrims travel the path and various parts of it each year. This year, Meredith and a friend from his church traversed 200 miles of the Camino across Northern Spain, ending in Santiago. They walked for 13 days, averaging around 15 miles per day. The picture captures one of the markers indicating only 10 kilometers to go to the finish line! Different from biking, but just as challenging.

Class Notes

ended up as a career high school physics teacher! He is happily retired and enjoying life on the front range of the Rockies.

One finds out strange associations in this job. Fred Banister and I turned 75 on the same day. Fred wrote that his son, daughter, their spouses, and four grandchildren traveled to Suffolk to celebrate his milestone for a day at the pool and golf club. I am absolutely sure Fred’s prowess with golf is much better than mine at 75.

Rolf White had a “delightful” evening at Lakewood in Richmond with our former biology department professor, Fred Swope, and his cousins. Fred spoke kindly of many members of ’71 he taught. Many don’t realize that in addition to teaching at VMI, Fred also taught at W&L and the Air Force Academy and has written books on both George C. Marshall and the Bomb. We didn’t realize that we were in the presence of a true Renaissance man.

Jerry “the other Kelly” wrote from “just east of Boulder,” Colorado, where he now lives with his wife, Ellen. He is fortunate that his daughter and brother-in-law’s families live nearby, so he has a lot of local support and family. While at VMI, his roomies, Dave Krug and Tom Fitzgerald, both sang in the Glee Club. Jerry has now caught the bug and sings tenor in the community chorus. George Biester would be proud of him.

Pat Wise has also relocated to Colorado and is doing well. Pat majored in English at VMI but

The gim report has been remarkably stable. One of the most encouraging reports is that Ann Biersak continues with her rehab and is now engaging in aqua therapy “in the pool” and continues to improve. Great news for a situation that has required continual ongoing effort and work from both Ann and Carl.

I want to thank you all for your support, letters, phone calls, and visits that continue to allow us to be connected to each other after 50-plus years of separation. The sacrifices that are made by BRs for their wives and other BRs is on a level many do not understand. The mystical bonds that unite us seem to grow as we age and are appreciated by those who receive the goodwill more than those who give it can possibly understand. Thanks, BRs, for all you do. Keep up the good work.

Zeke

what I did there?) By the time you read these, we’ll be well into the academic year, wrapping up Coach Rocco’s second season as football coach, approaching Ring Figure, and blessedly, finished with the presidential election.

As I was prepping these notes, I found a few interesting items from this spring’s Volunteer Leaders Conference that I neglected to share. For example, Brig Gen. Bob Moreschi, dean of faculty, filled us in on faculty responsibilities. First, each faculty member is required to be engaged, in some form, with their students outside the classroom. Second, 40% of cadets have at least one minor at graduation. Third, VMI maintains its student-teacher ratio of approximately 10:1. So, academics have gotten tougher, and it’s still just as hard to hide as it was in Smokey Gilliam’s political theory 421.

Your humble scribe and his bride checked Northern Europe and Iceland off our to-do list in June. The picture shows us reinforcing VMI ’72’s claim to Urquhart Castle on Loch Ness, Scotland. We were well represented at June’s senior alumni luncheon in Williamsburg (only outdone by ’69). Cam Fine, Ed and Liz Channel, Butch

Salutations, Mon Frère et Ma Soeur Rats, These short notes cover mid-May through our greenhouse summer and the Paris Olympics. (See

Class of 1971: Don Brown; Mal Kerley; Connie Martenstein; Tom Martenstein; and Dave Beren, a graduate of the University of Virginia, on Omaha Beach in Normandy, France, in September 2023. 1972

Larry Houseworth

Class of 1972: Larry and Marie Houseworth at Urquhart Castle, Scotland.

Winstead, Brit Harrison, Mike Kennedy, and Tom Moncure did us proud.

Bob Stransky reported: “In May, a few BRs got together for a small ’72 golf outing at Magnolia Green Golf Club near Richmond. Playing were Doug Nichols, Jimbo VanLandingham, Jerry Aveta, Wade Houston, Bob Stransky, and Chris Foster. The golf was varied. The stories, laughs, and fellowship were great!” Well done, BRs.

Walt Galanty shared this: “Meg and I went on a river cruise from Paris up to Normandy. We visited Pointe de Hoc, the American Cemetery, and Omaha Beach. We spent some time in Paris and got out prior to the Olympics. Ate great food and enjoyed the sites.” Good PR, BR— you’ve convinced us to go.

Henry Knick’s been busy. “I took a road trip back to Virginia to attend the 80th D-Day event in Bedford, Virginia. Twenty-two World War II veterans were at the event. Some were in wheelchairs, and some were walking slowly, but they were impressive. After the ceremony, I stopped and had a beer with Jerry and Lee Higgins in Lexington. Friday, I had lunch with John and Joan Sayers in Staunton and then dinner with Sharan Gore in Richmond. Finished up my trip in Williamsburg, visiting my granddaughter. While in Staunton, I visited the 116th Infantry, 29th Division Museum, and ran into Steve Talley ’70. Sadly, the unit is no longer called the ‘Stonewall Brigade,’ but they did keep the ‘Blue and Gray Division.’ Kathy and I have booked tickets to travel to Normandy with the museum group in September to complete one of my bucket list items.” Ours, too, BR.

Bob Beerbower shared his thoughts on Rocky and Kennedy Yost’s book, “Southern Girls Always Survive.” “It reads like a screenplay. I’m reading Bonnie’s copy of ‘Ladies of the Seminary.’ She recently purchased a book about students who rode horses at Sem.” I’m definitely adding that to the reading list.

Walt Chalkley said their “son, Scott ’02, will be promoted to colonel Aug. 29 at 11 a.m. at the U.S. Army Museum at Fort Belvoir. Debbie and I will fly up for the event. We will send you pictures, but it will obviously be after the

deadline.” Colonel—ouch.

G.T. Lahmers wrote, saying, “We finally got to take our vacation this year. I went with my wife and youngest son, who just graduated with a BS in chemical engineering from University of Colorado, to Malaysia and Singapore for 24 days. Most of it was in June. We spent about 2/3 of it staying with my wife’s older sister in Johor Bahru, Malaysia, just across from Singapore, and then the last week in Singapore. We did a lot of things with my wife’s relatives as she has an older sister, older brother, and younger brother living there in Johor Bahru and a bunch of nieces and nephews— many who work in Singapore. We had a great time, and it was good to get away from work. We have been putting this trip off since COVID-19 hit in 2019 and canceled our vacation back then. The hotel is the Marina Bay Sands and is quite famous and has a wonderful infinity pool with Singapore in the background. The food was great, and we generally had very nice weather.” Well, that certainly makes up for lost time, BR.

Sandy Edens sent this from his shoe phone (yep, that’s right, according to the signature block): “Our move is made. In June, we moved from Castle Rock, Colorado, to Raleigh. It was a big move, but we’re glad to be back closer to our roots, and now I can participate in VMI ’72 activities!” We’re looking forward to seeing you, BR!

Class of 1972: Doug Nichols, Jimbo Van Landingham, Jerry Aveta, Wade Houston, Bob Stransky, and Chris Foster at the Magnolia Green Golf Club in Richmond, Virginia.

Class of 1972: Cam Fine, Ed Channel, Butch Winstead, Brit Harrison, Mike Kennedy, and Tom Moncure at the Williamsburg, Virginia, senior alumni luncheon.

Class of 1972: G.T. and Poh-Chan Lahmers in Singapore.

Class of 1972: Lou and Ellen Welker celebrate their 50th anniversary at the House Mountain Inn.

Lou Welker chimed in: “Ellen and I are doing fine, enjoying the grandkids, and recently celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary June 8 while in Lexington. We were married in 1974 at the Timber Ridge Presbyterian Church outside of Lexington. Bill Daniels and Bob Ferguson (both deceased) were groomsmen in our wedding. For the celebration, we had dinner at the House Mountain Inn with friends. A picture is attached.” You two are looking good.

OK, that’s it for now. Let us hear from you, BRs, and take care of you and yours!

Rah Virginia Mil!

Larry

1973

Mike Kelly

Hello, Brother Rats!

I trust that this message finds you well and that you survived the summer heat and are enjoying the fall weather. It was nice to see so many of you at our “mini matriculation reunion.” It is hard to believe that it has been more than 55 years since we passed through Main Arch. As most of us have turned 73 years old now, it is amazing when we think back on our lives and marvel at the changes we have seen. And it is encouraging to see that the Institute is surviving and continues to turn out excellent young men and women leaders that this world so desperately needs. Rah Virginia Mil!

As I mentioned in the last set of notes, Pat and I continue “moving in” to our home in the Greensboro, North Carolina, area. We are close to getting our remodeling done and things fixed the way we want them to be, as this is most likely our last move. It has been really nice living closer to the kids and grandkids. Ball games, swim meets, and other activities are very enjoyable. I just finished 3 days of overnight Cub Scout camp with two of the grandkids and a week in Florida with my son, Derek, and his family. He is being transferred to Knoxville, Tennessee, from Panama City, and I went down to help get his house ready to put on the market. They will be a lot closer to us after their move, but I will miss our gulf fishing trips! We also had our annual Fourth of July family gathering at the ranch in Virginia for fun, food, games, and fireworks. We had

a really great time. And as I am working on these notes, we are packing to go to Nags Head with several of our brother rats and look forward to that adventure!

Joining us in Nags Head will be Klaus and Laura Worrell, Doug and Beth Basham, Bill and Linda Spencer, Art Pendleton (Susannah was unable to come at the last minute), John Semmel (Dottie was also unable to come), and Larry and Debbie Mays. Thanks to Klaus and Laura for lining up the house and writing the operation’s plan! The colors will be flying prominently, and the Institute will be well represented on the Outer Banks of North Carolina. We are expecting Barry and Karen Robertson to stop by, as well as John Benson and Paul Forehand. Barry said he had recently spoken to Wes Carr, who now lives in Spring, Texas, and said Wes told him to say hello to everyone.

Class of 1973: The grave of Col. John B. Strange ’842, the first VMI sentinel to walk guard at the Institute, in Maplewood Cemetery in Charlottesville, Virginia. Members of the class researched records to find the gravesite.

I mentioned we have been doing a lot of remodeling this past year. In regular conversations with Michael Burke, I know they are in the midst of a major home renovation, and you probably have been following Tom Clark’s pictograph of his bathroom remodeling project.

I had a nice note from Joe Duffy saying he and Mary were doing well and that they would not be able to attend our mini reunion in August as they were renovating their home and were also being hosts to two of their nieces. Tuck Bowie said he would like to have come; however, his schedule was already full that week. I had not heard from Tuck in a while; he lives in Virginia Beach. Larry Cerruti and Billy Stephens also sent their regrets and said to pass on best wishes to everyone.

Michael Smith finished some remodeling this past year, to include his yard, and most recently traveled up the Shenandoah Valley and into Washington, D.C. He has been posting regular photos of “guess where I am” on our Facebook page. Don’t think he has fooled anyone as yet. I suppose he knew Hurricane Debby was coming and left town and probably was surprised when its track basically followed him through the Carolinas and Virginia! Jeff Minch frequently posts similar “where am I” photos; most recently, he was in Austin, Texas, and at a rodeo in Steamboat Springs, Colorado.

I previously mentioned Klaus and Laura were on a European river cruise this past spring. They were followed shortly afterward by Roland and Judie Tiso, who were celebrating their anniversary and visiting some places they had not seen in Europe.

Roland continues to be actively involved in volunteering and managing a healthcare facility in his hometown of

Class of 1973: At the home of Art and Susannah Pendleton in Daleville, Virginia, in June 2024 are (from left) Larry Mays, Sandy McNamara, Art, Klaus Worrell, Danny Williamson, Doug Basham, and Hal Worrell ’81.

Class of 1973: Brother rats and their families vacation at Nags Head, North Carolina, in August 2024.

Valrico, Florida. He also still competes in body-building contests and recently won the 70 Tampa Pro/Am bodybuilding championship in Tampa, Florida. In August, he was invited to participate in the Florida State championships in Orlando where he also took first place. Roland told me he had been selected for induction into the U.S. Army Senior ROTC Hall of Fame with the Class of 2024. The event will occur Oct. 14 at the Association of United States Army Convention in Washington, D.C., Oct. 14–16. Congratulations, Ro!

Thanks to Roland and Scott Lingamfelter, who provided a review of their latest books during our mini reunion and then led a discussion on the Middle East. Scott’s book, “Yanks in Blue: American UN Peacekeepers in the Middle East,” discusses efforts to keep peace in the Middle East and begs the question as to whether or not that is actually possible. Roland’s book, “In Strange Company,” looks at his experiences during the 1990s and early 2000s in working on operations in the Middle East and leading military contingencies from several different countries and cultures in efforts to help stabilize the Middle East. We had a really nice discussion following their presentations on the state of affairs in the Middle East.

American Military Cemetery, where more than 3,000 American soldiers are buried. Wreaths were laid, and there was a flyover of the only still airworthy B-17 in Europe accompanied by a Spitfire escort. They left England and toured Eastern Europe and spent a lot of time in Poland. They were very impressed with the old-world charm, food, and friendliness of the people.

Back home, Pete said they took a trip to West Point to visit their son. His son was recalled to active duty to teach in the mechanical engineering department for 2 years; however, he has since moved on and is now employed by NAVAIR at Patuxent River Naval Air Station in Maryland.

I had a nice note from Anthony Acampora, who told me they were not going to be able to come, as he and his wife, Katherine, would be in Hawaii celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary. I don’t hear from Tony very often, so it was nice to get a message from him. He is back in London now after a brief stay in the D.C. area. He said he really would like to have attended the book presentations and discussion as he has managed offices in Bahrain and Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, for more than 20 years and said he could add a lot to that discussion! Great hearing from you, Tony. Have fun in Hawaii.

John DiGiovanni said he and his wife, Patti, celebrated their 50th anniversary in September last year. John said they first met in 1970 and have been together ever since! That is something to be proud of. John also told me that he had learned that Louis J. Baker, who matriculated with our class, had recently passed away. Louis was on a football scholarship and was paired in the backfield with Mac Bowman However, he apparently left after the first few months. John said he thought George Tisdale had been one of his roommates.

Pete and Patti Walters have been busy this spring and summer as they spent 3 weeks in

I had a short note from John Leon who said he was doing well and in training for a 20-mile bike ride through the District of Columbia scheduled for Sept. 7, 2024. He hopes to complete the course in about an hour and a half. Good luck, John!

Europe. Their first few days were in England in an area near Nuthampstead. His dad’s bomber group (39th Heavy, 602nd Squadron) deployed in spring 1944 to England. While his dad was stationed there, he was struck by a British lorry and ended up spending 6 weeks in Diddington at the 49th Station Hospital. Pete said they were able to link up with family and friends while there and attended the Memorial Day services at the Cambridge

John Sykes sent a regrets note about not being able to attend our 55th matriculation reunion. He said he and Michaela were doing well and survived the summer heat in Bluffton, South Carolina. He has fully recovered from his patella tendon repair he had last winter and was back at it in his woodworking shop in the garage. Michaela still works as a data specialist in an elementary school and spends a lot of time with her hobbies. She recently bought a sublimation heat press and can produce logos for hats, cups, shirts, etc., and sent me a picture of a VMI cup she had produced. In the last issue of the Review, I talked about the history of the 1st Class private’s belt buckle and the involvement of Ray Burton. This quarter, I received a message from Michael Smith about a project Jack Hayes and George Tisdale have been working on. Jack shared his love of history with John Piedmont ’89 and Steve Price ’71, who were members of the Sons of Confederate Veterans organization. After Jack moved to Crozet, Virginia, they remained in touch, and he learned that the first VMI sentinel was buried in Maplewood Cemetery in Charlottesville, Virginia. Jack did some research and found the cemetery and grave of Col. John B. Strange ’842 The tombstone needed cleaning and some rejuvenation, and Jack called George Tisdale George had a good friend, one of his hiking buddies, Dennis Bussey, an Annapolis graduate, who has a hobby of restoring historical tombstones. Dennis met with Jack and started the process. Michael sent me a picture of the tombstone. Quite impressive,

Class of 1973: Brother rats in Nags Head, North Carolina, in August 2024 are (standing, from left) Mike Kelly, Larry Mays, Barry Robertson, (seated) John Semmel, Doug Basham, (in the water) Bill Spencer, Art Pendleton, and Klaus Worrell.

Class of 1973: Gathering in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, are (from left) G.G. and Ann Gray, Darrell and Mary Ellen Rickmond, Glenn and Renee Younes, and Tom and Betsy Jones.

guys; thanks for your hard work.

I hope you all are having a great fall and can get to some of the ball games. As you read these notes, it will be time to start decorating with pumpkins and Christmas ornaments. I wish all of you a wonderful holiday season and a happy New Year. Stay safe.

In the Bonds, Mike

Snookie Parker

Greetings Brother Rats, Family, and Friends of the Class of 1974!

I trust this missive will find you in good spirits. Typically, class notes for this quarter tend to be rather thin. These notes are no exception. A couple of additional contributing factors: Recovery from our 50th Reunion (what a great time as I reflect on it), recovery from Wilson County, North Carolina, tornado alley—17 tornado warnings, five touched down, and three touched down in Wilson County—and I am recovering from a severe wrist injury sustained while clearing tornado yard debris, specifically a significant tree-sized limb I attempted to cut up, move, and pile by myself— bad call. I’m clearly not as productive at the moment; it’s my right wrist. Granted, I’m like that infamous quote from an NCSU basketball player who claimed to be able to shoot with both hands because he was “amphibious.” Well, I throw and shoot with my left hand ... and write and eat with my right hand, so I guess I can claim to be “amphibious;” however, a number of things I typically do with my right hand I’m having to learn to do with my left hand. It is slow going, but here goes.

In June, I received an email from BR Tim Bosse. Tim claims he and Pat enjoyed seeing everyone at the reunion and spending time with old roommates Hall Brodie; Gus Elliott and his wife, Randi; and Jim Sarver. Tim mentioned we all looked as young as when we graduated, but I concluded Tim’s eyesight

Class Notes

might need to be checked. Tim also mentioned he was still recovering from spinal fusion surgery and seems to be improving every week. Tim and Pat are trying to spend as much time as possible at their Florida home located in Inlet Beach. I love that stretch of beach from Fort Walton through Destin to Panama City—sugar white sand and the calm waters of the gulf. When not in Florida, they remain north of Atlanta.

I did see a couple of BRs cruising this summer. In July, John and Suzanne Pate were on an 11-day Viking European Cruise on the Danube. Budapest,

Hungary, south to Bucharest, Romania, with stops along the way in Bulgaria, Serbia (Belgrade), and Croatia (Vukovar, where they were hosted by a Croatian family), and Romania (included Transylvania and the immortal Count Dracula). Judging by all the pics posted on Facebook, and there were many, they clearly were enjoying the visit. What a great cruise—some ancient history and fabulous historic settings.

Not to be outdone, Tom and Ida Patykula are cruising the Danube in July/August (Viking); I’m not quite sure in which direction, but I’m guessing cruising north from Budapest from what I could glean from the pics on Facebook. Seems like I recall Tom profiling at the Love Locks Bridge in Cologne, Germany, and bike riding through the Black Forest. It wasn’t too long ago that a number of BRs and spouses took a similar Avalon trip on the Danube, going south from Prague to Budapest. I highly recommend river cruising as a manner of travel. You sleep well, eat well, and eliminate the bag drag between venues. Plans are in the works for a French Rhone River cruise from Lyon to Avignon through the lush vineyards of Burgundy to the sunkissed hills of Provence. Traveling with BRs and spouses—too much fun. Stay tuned if interested!

BTW, I attempted to capture and submit Pate and Patykula travel pics from those posted on Facebook, but not enough pixel strength to make the cut for the Alumni Review class notes.

I don’t know if a cruise was involved, but I understand Randy Gleason was visiting his son in Alaska. Not sure if Martha went with him. Seems like I heard they spent some time in Denali National Park and Reserve. There is a dramatic contrast between the ancient civilization of old Europe and the pristine vistas of Denali National Park ... both wonderful visits in their own right! I’ve been in touch with Craig “Snapper” Carlock. The class has some excess reunion favors to be stored (caps, vests, and wine glasses). Snap was kind enough to swing by the Alumni Agencies to pick up and store our stash. If anyone is interested in a cap, vest, or wine glasses, check our class website for details to acquire. While speaking with Snap, I learned of an impromptu golf outing in Williamsburg the Friday after the VMI versus William & Mary

Class of 1974: Pam and J.W. Simms, Cathy and Snapper Carlock, Donnie and Barbara Ross, and R.C. and Martha Thompson in barracks during the 50th Reunion in April 2024.

Class of 1974: Pictured at the ladies’ tea during the 50th Reunion in April 2024 are (from left) Beverly Donahue, Susan Sheppard, Mary Stuart Harlow, Ann Forbes, and Sue Jones.

football game Thursday night. Potential players: Snap Carlock, J.W. Simms, Rod Beard, Terrell Williams, Donnie Ross, Mark Prentice, Bruce Jones, Weldon Neal, Tommy Anderson, and Mel Clark. I hope to play if my wrist heals by then. I think Mark Prentice lined this outing up. I called Mark to see what might be planned for the William & Mary game. Mark and Michelle are doing well. Mark is retired/retired now and claims he has a hard time determining what day of the week it is. It’s like the Bill Murray movie, “Groundhog Day” ... can’t tell one day from another—they all seem to be the same. I was thinking we might be gathering at Ken Terry’s Revolution Golf and Grille in Williamsburg. Marla and I may have lunch there and hope to see Ken and Betsy at a minimum. Nothing is planned to date—2 more weeks to see if something materializes.

I did speak with Al Rasper. He and Judy are doing well. Al mentioned a number of Tidewater BRs are planning to gather during the pregame tailgate: Al Rasper, Chip Beaman, Chuck

Cayton, and Frank Richardson have indicated attendance. There likely will be some others. We shall see.

I got a note from Johnny Morton. We are planning to get together in the “not too distant” future. Hope that works out.

T.J. Wilson was by to visit with roommate Mike Morrissett. Mike is recovering from back surgery, and I understand he is getting better, but the process is slow.

That is all the news I have for this set of notes. I do have a five-photo quota to submit for class notes, so I’m submitting some of the photos I would like to have submitted for the May 15 submission. Send me an update and pictures; pictures close to 1MB in size are always a go! I hope to see you somewhere this fall.

Class contacts: snookieparker1974@earthlink. net and Charley Banning cbanning@cox.net. Send me a note. Yada, yada, yada and yaba daba dooooo!

In the Bonds, Snookie

Thomas Mason

Brothers, Sisters, and Casual Readers, These August deadline remarks, to be delivered to your mail bin in November, have typically been the most challenging to scratch out. After these notes have been delivered to the editor, I will reflect, regroup, and watch the Little League World Series without guilt. The Olympics are past, and we’re on the cusp of the fall football season with

two-a-day practices underway. Cadre and new cadets (matriculation is Aug. 17) will have arrived on post, and another school year is off to another rousing start, and our 50th Reunion is right around the corner in April 2025!

Your notes today display the feats of strength and daring from mid-May through mid-August 2024.

Onward!

One morning in late May, I was delivered a phone call from John Siemens, who encapsulated 49 years over a 40-minute conversation. John explained his 2.007 GPA in CE and his bid for lowest class rank while graduating on time. John transferred out of USAF into USCG OCS so he could fly. In the U.S. Coast Guard, weather is not a limiting factor; if they could get the hangar doors open, they flew missions! His stations

Class of 1974: John Pate (left) and Randy Gleason.

Class of 1974: Pictured on the Outer Banks of North Carolina are (from left) Pete Shelley, Dave Stormont, Phil Parker, and Rod Beard.

Class of 1974: The memorial service for deceased brother rats held in Memorial Hall during the 50th Reunion in April 2024.

Class of 1975: At the Scotland wedding of Jessie Brooks, daughter of Dan Brooks, are (from left) Jessie, Sandy Brooks, and Dan.

in Kodiak, Alaska; Pensacola; and New England were his most interesting. He has fully restored the ’66 Mustang he always tinkered with. He built his own plane (16,000 rivets) and flew C-130 aircraft and rotary wing (Seahawk/Blackhawk) helicopters over his long career.

On June 7, the annual Keydet Club Leadership Outing was held in Lexington at the country club. Robert Taylor shot skeet with the other Olympic marksmanship hopefuls while three juggernaut teams of ’75 classmates slugged it out on the golf course. Art Nunn, Robert Mills, Glenn Furr, and Stewart Fleming shook off a strong closing by Al Morgan, Billy Hunter, Mike Hunter, and Steve Chapin. Bringing up the rear due to injuries were Doug Harvey (who played with a broken hip), Oliver Way, Chip Louthan, and a bruised class agent. One notable highlight of the day was the cooler of beverages provided by Sherry Chapin along fairway No. 6 and the post-match cocktail hour sponsored by the Chapins in their new home!

The next day, June 8, around 1:15 p.m., Glenn Garland phoned with the dreadful news of John Yulee Richardson’s passing after a 31-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. Immediately, Tom Jones, Bob Keller, and other classmates were alerted. That Saturday afternoon was filled with intense memories and feelings of grief for John’s wife, Karen, and their family. What could we do to provide comfort at this time?

Karen Richardson is nothing short of a saint: Nurse, mother, grandmother, and caregiver of John Y., her mother (Mrs. Spinella), daughter Marie, and sons John Joseph Richardson ’08 and Andrew. Plans were made for a July 12 celebration of life service, July 13 mass at their church in Virginia Beach, and then an inurnment service at the Richardson family gravesite in Dinwiddie County, Virginia. With the able help of many, a beautiful celebration of Yulee’s homegoing was held in Virginia Beach July 12.

departing. All of us highlighted in bold above have been enriched for having known John Y. Richardson Jr.

Rodney Low made his debut into class notes, checking in from Leavenworth, Kansas. He is undecided on attending our 50th jubilee in April, and I’m enlisting any help I can muster to convince Rod to come to Lexington. He challenged me with a question: Can I identify for him the three history majors in our class who graduated with honors? Perhaps the able keepers of the archives can answer this one (or I can trudge through the yearbook and ferret this out). Rod is in reasonably good health and continues to do some work for the U.S. Army’s MCTP program. He still collects and paints tiny toy soldiers and will have gotten together with Rusty Rahm at the end of this month (August). I remain hopeful for photos of their annual gathering!

Another inaugural check-in memo came from Dave Schuyler. Dave looks forward to our 50th and should be physically repaired after hernia surgery. He may be sidelined for several football games. He keeps in regular touch with his Room 137 roomies, Art Nunn, Mike Fleenor, and Randy Frank; alas, no mention of E.E. Spain was made.

Charlie Freeman went to El Paso, Texas, for his granddaughter’s high school graduation and entry into New Mexico State University’s veterinary program. He has also acquired a new Rottweiler puppy he calls Kaiser, to pair up with his older Rottie.

The class leadership, led by Guy Conte and Ron Norman, saw an outpouring of support from John’s classmates, the VMI chaplain’s office, and the VMI Class of 2025. Many of our classmates gathered for a late lunch in Virginia Beach prior to the family reception and service to reminisce and fellowship. Attending the reception and service were Dan Schultz, John Maples, Bob Slaughter, Dennis Lewin, Jim Seitz, Ollie Way, Oscar Richardson, Garland Isaacs, Greg Diamontopulos, Jay Jones, Glenn Garland, Ellett Smith, Fred Martin, Bob Keller, Ben Vanderberry, Frank

Cole, Ron Norman, Guy Conte, and me. From VMI, John Casper ’04, post chaplain, and VMI service dog CAVU were present. Cadets Harrison Williams ’25, Josh Palmer ’25, and Howie Link ’26 (bugler) stood guard over John’s remains. The service included many of John’s friends and associates from his long service as a lawyer, and they spoke lovingly, respectfully, and admiringly of John’s traits and even-handedness, mixing humorous anecdotes and poignant sentiments.

The graveside service on the afternoon of July 13 included many of John’s childhood friends from Dinwiddie County and tales of early life country hijinks. Tom and Peggy Jones and their son, Steve; Bob Keller; Glenn Garland; and I attended. Many guests remained for a reception at the home of one of John’s close friends before

John Plunkett signed his status slip as ‘all right’ from Henderson (Las Vegas), Nevada. John did highlight Henderson’s excellent Little League team, which went on to the LLWS in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.

John and Cathy Maples look forward to an October north-of-the-border cruise trip up the St. Lawrence River with Dan and Laura Schultz to Montreal, Newfoundland, and Nova Scotia.

Speaking again of the Schultz-Maples duo, they and a handful of unnamed others regaled the three cadets with heroic Old Corps fables of magic, wonder, and fairy dust over dinner at a nearby watering hole after the July 12 Yulee Richardson ceremony. Do you think these young stalwarts believe they’ll ever be this old? Asking for a friend.

John Logan posted me an after-birthday email catching me up on questions I posed to him earlier. John knows I have a love of rat terriers. He had a tough year in 2023, losing three of his rescue dogs in 1 year. Since then, the Logans have

Class of 1975: Jerry DeWaters, Joe DeWaters, Guy Conte, and Bernie Cobb play golf in New York.

Class of 1975: Oscar Richardson, Al Hansen, Garland Isaacs, and Jim Seitz in York, Pennsylvania.

adopted a bonded pair of older pups, Rocco and Ruger, whose owner just walked away from them. John and his wife, Randi, plan on seeing us in Lexington at the 50th!

A note from Kevin Wright posted from Duck, North Carolina, prompted an upbeat exchange between ourselves, clarifying his status and time as a Fulbright scholar; his tour of duty in Stuttgart, Germany, working with one Charlie Kaune; and serving at the tip of the European spear with Paul Spencer ’76 and Pete Dillon ’78. Alas, Kevin will most likely not be able to attend the reunion due to family mobility challenges.

Felix Wolkowitz dropped me a memo advising of his grand-babysitting duties with two infants under 18 months old and comparison to an as-yetunnamed Olympic sport. Felix is ‘all right’ in Manhassett, New York.

Greg Stultz checked in with news of a prostate cancer diagnosis, some of which has gotten into his bones. He’s had consultation with a specialist for treatment alternatives, including a regimen of radiation and hormones, and hopefully, by the time this information reaches you, Greg should be well along with resolution.

Bernie Cobb relayed details of a late July trip to Eastchester, New York, to connect with Jerry DeWaters; Jerry’s son, Joe Dewaters; Guy Conte; and Felix Wolkowitz for a week of golf and fine dining in Westchester County, New York.

Paul Bernard checked in with the news that he and his son, Chris Bernard ’08, are building a Shelby Cobra from a kit. Knowing that Chris is a young dad, this may be a mostly solo project for

Paul. They hope to have it completed by our April reunion.

John Whitworth advised of an uneventful summer in Connecticut and his status as ‘all right.’ Rich and Beth Mines drove up to Atlanta (from Macon) Aug. 3 and met up with Al Hansen and Cary Bradley for a VMI alumni outing to the Atlanta Braves baseball game. Rich included a nice photo of the trio!

My request for feats of daring-do was answered by Dr. Billy Hunter, as he traveled to Lusaka, Zambia, for a 14-day hunt July 1–14. An additional 4-hour charter flight from Lukasa took him into a 1.4 million acre privately owned tribal refuge that awards hunting rights. Billy accompanied a professional game hunter he has worked with previously as well as a native Zambian hunter. On day 11, he shot a lion, which will undergo taxidermy and be shipped back to the U.S.A. He stated his favorite hunts are the pheasant hunting trips to South Dakota he takes with his BRs Al Morgan, Robert Taylor, Steve Chapin, Ron Bongiovanni, and Mike and Bobby Hunter

In June, Dan and Sandy Brooks traveled to Borthwick Castle, secluded in the countryside near Midlothian, Scotland, for their daughter’s (Jessie) wedding. The one toe-stubber is they just cannot understand the groom’s thick native brogue. The accompanying photo triggers a memory of “Four Weddings and a Funeral.” The Brookses also regularly catch up with Frank and Tina Hillson when all are in Delaware.

Lane Pritchard continues with his real estate appraisal business, though not as vigorously. Lane takes two golf trips each year with 15 friends (I’m not sure I even have 15 acquaintances, let alone friends!), and he now plays pickleball twice a week. He and Robin will celebrate 30 years together this fall, and they look forward to our reunion in April.

On Saturday, Aug. 10, Oscar Richardson, Al Hansen, and Garland Isaacs motored up to York, Pennsylvania, to fellowship with Jim Seitz. Photo included shows the foursome at The Cove restaurant in York.

At this writing, Tad MacGowan has been 3 months pondering, lamenting, and adjusting to life without Beverly. After much contemplation, Tad has weighed his health, resources, and time and decided to travel to Australia to serve as a missionary. He is currently awaiting visa approval and will soon be in Townsville, Queensland Territory, on the northeast coast of Australia. The travel challenges have caused Blossom (the kitty) to find a new home. Join me in following Tad on Facebook. Godspeed down under, my friend!

In 1970–71, in high school, there was an elective course offered called stenography. Enrolled students were issued (or bought) a paper-bound textbook titled, “Gregg’s Shorthand.” It was full of squiggly lines that translated into vocabulary and short phrases. Now, I appreciate the spare prose many of you send me, but occasionally, the information is so brutally thin I’m just at wit’s end on how to make it a silk purse. For example: One email read, ‘Last week North Carolina, next week Maine, Italy Sept.’ My friendly reply requesting illumination went dark and unanswered. I could have done more with squiggly lines.

Please keep our classmate Bill Kobus front of mind as he struggles with the simplest of tasks. There must be many of you that still toil in “black ops” roles. Thomas Reeder, Michael Thompson, and John Williamson, I’d be honored to receive an encrypted message from any or all of you, please and thank you!

This Alumni Review column will be my final heartfelt plea urging you to heed the summons to attend our reunion in April, this last great gathering with your brothers, spouses, and friends!

Class of 1975: Attending an Atlanta Braves game are (from left) Cary Bradley, Rich Mines, and Alan Hansen.

Class of 1975: Attending a memorial service for John Y. Richardson in Virginia Beach, Virginia, July 12, are (from left) Guy Conte, Dan Schultz, Cadet Harrison Williams ’25, John Casper ’04, CAVU (dog), John Maples, Bob Slaughter, Dennis Lewin, Jim Seitz, Oliver Way, Oscar Richardson, Garland Isaacs, Greg Diamontopulos, Jay Jones, Ron Norman, Glenn Garland, Ellett Smith, Fred Martin, Tom Mason, Bob Keller, Ben Vanderberry, Frank Cole, Cadet Josh Palmer ’25, and Cadet Howie Link ’26 (bugler).

Indicators are that the often-feeble arc of my tenure as your scribe has flatlined, as response to my outreach this quarter was, at best, tepid. Upon reflection, much of the responsibility falls to me, as sometimes inattentive guardianship of this duty post has found lapses in the frequency of outgoing calls to you; as a result, the bridge building stalls. I’ll renew focus.

Humbly and devotedly, I remain, Never above you, never below you, always beside you ...

Your Friend, BR, and Notary, Thomas A. Mason

William Bhatta

tour by boat on the Chicago River. Then, we rented a car and drove to a resort in Mishicot, Wisconsin. We visited the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, where I got to tour the USS Cobia (SS-245), a Gato-class World War II submarine. The shipyard in Manitowoc built subs for the Navy in World War II and sent them down the Mississippi to New Orleans for deployment. Paula got her wish to see Lake Michigan up close and personal at the Rawley Point Lighthouse near Two Rivers, plus we also toured the Henry James House in Appleton, Wisconsin, the first house in the U.S. to be electrified in 1880.”

These notes were written in July, not August. By the time you read these notes, Michelle and I will be at sea heading toward Vancouver, about to complete a 15-day cruise and land tour of Alaska. Travel to Alaska has been on everyone’s bucket list! Carroll Warner and Bill Favier traveled there. Ken Harbin and Marshall Coyle have it on their list. Mark and Libbie Swank visited in June. Mark Rinnan and his wife departed Vancouver Aug. 15 heading north for Seward, Alaska. Ted Mouras started his visit to Nome, the Pribilof Islands, and the Aleutian Islands Aug. 10.

On May 15, a very famous day 48 years ago, Mark Sculley described a memory about graduation day. In July, the Sculley family rallied out in Utah with Mark and Bernadette for a family reunion: Julian ’09 and Michelle with their boys, Christian from Stuttgart, and Virginia from Virginia Beach. Mark said, “First time in many years. Having a ball. Talk, laugh, eat, drink, nap, repeat.”

Ray and Margaret Ramos and Jim and Susan Mallon embarked on a 30-day vacation across the Atlantic then Europe this summer. They boarded the Queen Mary 2 in New York, sailed the Atlantic for 8 days, landed in Southampton, England, and then toured London for 3 days. They flew to Lisbon, toured the city, then began a 7-day river cruise on the Douro River. Jim said, “Port is made in this area, and we availed ourselves of some. The countryside was beautiful and very rural. There were daytime excursions to see churches, wineries, small towns, and this included 1 day in Salamanca, Spain.” Next stop was Turin, Italy, where they rented a house in Narzole for 10 days. Jim said, “With [me] as the driver of our rental car

and Ray as able navigator, we explored the Piedmont region, learning much about the food, wine, and culture. Fortunately, the Italians’ English was better than our Italian. As a bonus, the owners of our rental house are winemakers and had wines in the house for us and gave us a complimentary tasting.”

Mack and Paula Curle toured Chicago and Wisconsin in June. Great timing because the humidity was low, and the temperatures were in the mid-60s to low-70s. Mack said in Chicago, they “ate some excellent food, took a water taxi on Lake Michigan to the Navy Pier, spent a day in the Field Museum of Natural History, and took an architectural

Bill and Kathy Ryals had a great summer! They spent 10 days in Italy with their daughter and sonin-law, who was attending the NATO War College in Rome. (His Israeli War College assignment changed last year due to threatening conditions in the country.) Bill said, “Our oldest grandson, Nicolas, was born June 6, 2006, and everyone said it was the mark of the devil. I stepped in and said no, it’s a great day, it’s D-Day, and when he turns 18, I’m going to have him on Omaha Beach. I’ve waited 18 years for this trip. So, we took him from Rome to Paris and then to the race at Le Mans, then down to Mont St. Michele, and finally to Utah Beach on the first day along with a full reconnaissance of St. Mere Eglise. The next day, we did a 30-mile electric bike tour around Omaha Beach, the cemetery, the port at Port-en-Bessen and Arromanches-les-Bains (it was the best part of the trip). We also visited Gold Beach and the bunkers/guns that are still there. It was the trip of a lifetime and will probably be the last time we will ever get Nicolas all to ourselves for a full week. After leaving Normandy, we stopped into Rouen (where the British burned Joan of Arc) and then on to Paris to meet up with daughter Sabrina and the other younger grandkids (Carson and Mia).

Three days in Paris with a full “march or die” hike each day was challenging. It was a good thing we trained for it for 4 months before and that I figured out how to use Uber late in the day. There is absolutely nothing more satisfying than Uber through the mess of traffic in Paris.”

An update from Mike Hillsgrove: “I’m still alive, have published six of my books, and have started a YouTube channel on the art of writing. Still living in Texas, still married.”

In May, Ted Trout and his sister spent 11 days in Malta touring sites associated with Knights Hospitaller of St. John. Ted said, “We lodged in an apartment with a roof terrace overlooking the Grand Harbor and enjoyed drinking limoncello spritzes and eating lamb salad.” They traveled through London and stayed with friends in Malmesbury (in Southern England). Ted said,

Class of 1976: Tony Young (left) with a construction worker at the site of a permanent stage and memorial to World War II veterans on Veterans Memorial Island Sanctuary in Vero Beach, Florida.

Class of 1976: Margaret and Ray Ramos and Susan and Jim Mallon aboard the Queen Mary 2 traveling to Europe in summer 2024.

“On the way back, we toured and saw two plays at the new Globe Theater and spent a day at the British Museum looking at medieval ‘stuff.’”

In July, Bob Keneally and his wife rented a 31-foot RV and took some of their grandchildren to Yellowstone National Park for 7 days.

Mark and Libby Swank hosted Evan and Margaret Haberman July 25 down in Texas. They visited William Chris Winery in Hye, Texas, followed by a visit to the World War II Pacific War Museum in Fredericksburg, Texas, and a great German dinner!

This summer, Dave and Barb Bass celebrated their 71st birthdays and 42nd anniversary. Dave said, “Travel is still a priority, with a weekend in Atlantic City set for early September followed by a road trip to Minnesota to see Barb’s family planned for the fall.”

Marshall Coyle finally retired as a professor at Penn State University. He is moving to Colorado to spend more time camping and with his kids. Marshall said, “Instead of entertaining college students, I will be entertaining my granddaughter.”

Rick Wrenn retired last December after 28 years in program management for flight simulators at Lockheed Martin. Rick said, “I sleep so much better now!” Rick and Kathy have been enjoying travel—they have four trips planned for 2024—and visits with their grandchildren. Rick said, “Also taking up astro photography, which is cool, and since my body is telling me I cannot play golf anymore, it seems like something interesting to do.”

Alan and Judy Kinker enjoy living out in Mathews County, Virginia (the county is pretty much surrounded by Chesapeake Bay). Alan said, “Mathews has everything most people go on vacation for: Fishing, crabbing, oysters, and uncrowded beaches, so Judy and I will be staying around here for the summer.” They are also planning trips to western Civil War battlefields and the Little Bighorn Battlefield this fall and next spring.

Jim and Sharon Joustra visited son Andrew in Hollywood, California. He is doing well and works at Paramount

Pictures. Andrew is currently working on three projects as a writer and script supervisor for “Teenage Mutant Turtles.” “Kowabunga!”

Jim Dittrich continues his biography projects of distinguished VMI alumni as the VMI Alumni Association historian. He has done some great research on Bill Dabney ’61, Dabney Coleman ’53, Bert Earnest ’938, Glover Johns ’931, Edward Showalter ’51, and many others.

Ken and Susan Harbin moved into a new house in March so their youngest son with his family could buy their old home, just in time for the birth of their second grandchild in early June. The Harbins now have three grandchildren; the oldest is 9. Ken said, “Man, time flies!”

Ares Koumis is the space ops command action officer for CENTCOM. Ares said, “Have had some interesting interactions with Qataris, Saudis, and Israel Defense Forces members; looking forward to more of that.” Ares’ son and family are moving from Colorado Springs to the Greenville, South Carolina, area. Ares thinks he probably has 3 more years of work left in him before he retires, then he must figure out whether to stay in Colorado or move east to South Carolina to be close to the grandkids.

Sad news to report: Robert “Bob” French passed away last year June 16.He lived in Florida and was 69 years old. Unfortunately, the VMI Alumni Agencies discovered his demise 11 months later, based on a handwritten note on returned mail from Bob’s last known address. Bob and I were economics majors, but I have not seen or heard from him since graduation. I do not have any other details. I wrote Bob’s next of kin for information about his life but have not received a response.

Finally, I hope you had a chance Aug. 24 to take a moment and raise a glass to all Class of 1976 brother rats: 52 years ago, 347 of us arrived at VMI and began our journey to becoming the greatest class in barracks!

Hope you had a great summer! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving and December holiday season!

Class of 1976: Gathering at the Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Virginia, in April 2024, are (back row, from left) Charlie Keen, Ray Ramos, Betsy Keen, Jim Joustra, Margaret Ramos, Evan Haberman, (front row) Sharon Joustra, Teri Coleman, and Margaret Haberman.

Class of 1976: Attending the last two home VMI baseball games at Gray-Minor Stadium May 17 are (from left) Bill Ryals, Kavie Thrift, Duff Joseph, Charlie Keen, Evan Haberman, Jim Mallon, Ray Ramos, Bill Bhatta, and Lee Godsey.

Class of 1976: Mack Curle visits the Washington House Museum in Two Rivers, Wisconsin, the birthplace of the ice cream sundae, in June 2024.

Steve Kelly

Greetings, Super ’77!

It is late July as I write these notes. The weather has cooled off somewhat in Central North Carolina, and we finally received some much-needed rain. Hope all of you are doing well and have enjoyed your summer. Mauri and I enjoyed a great week at the beach with family and participated in the annual family reunion over the Fourth of July at my home place in Pulaski, Virginia. We have enjoyed a steady stream of family visiting the lake this summer, which has kept us busy in a good way. I also had the blessing of spending a week with North Carolina Baptists on missions disaster relief teams in Greenville, Kentucky, after a devastating F3 tornado rocked that area.

Our mini reunion is rapidly approaching Sept. 6–7. I hope to see many of our brother rats there. Additionally, it will soon be time to start thinking about our 50th Reunion. Wow! As we get closer, I will be asking many of you to serve on planning committees to make this a great reunion.

I want to remind everyone about the VMI Southern Conference 50th reunion of the 1974 VMI Southern Conference football championship team. This will be held the weekend of Nov. 1–3, 2024, in Lexington. Please contact Bobby McQueen or Tommy Cole for more details.

Sensei Tim Thompson has sent weekly updates on the successes his team experienced in their Ryoshin-Kan Karate School summer camps. We look forward to seeing great things with these teams this next year.

I received a note from Kurt Weidenthal about his retirement. Kurt had 27 years in the Army and another 20 years with All Points Logistics in Huntsville, Alabama, where he most recently served as executive vice president of integrated logistics. Congratulations, Kurt and Sue, on your well-deserved second retirement! I believe some

travel plans are in your future! I also received a note from Max Floyd from Colorado Springs. He is enjoying his retirement, and he and his wife, Karen, summited Mount Sherman in late July. Well done!

Mike Davis sent a note about his travels in the Northeast this summer. He and Debbie visited Maine and ate a good bit of lobster! They also managed to take in Portland, Kennebunkport, Cape Cod, and the Bush complex. On the drive back to Virginia, they stopped and visited with Brother Rat Glenn Davidson. “Tasty Cakes” is recovering from a stroke he suffered back in February. Glenn also shared that Jim Bentley has recovered from his bad infection that hospitalized him earlier in the year and is now living in California.

Mark Hunt and Kimber Latsha attended VMI Legacy Day with their grandsons, Bodhi Rhodes and Finn Alhajj. Mark and Kimber were surprised to find each other there and enjoyed the day of fun as much as their legacies! Grandsons Bodhi and Finn participated in activities at the Corps Physical Training Facility, such as cargo net climb, towel bar room, tug-of-war, and a 30-foot rock wall. After a quick barracks tour, they had a “jailbreak” dodgeball game on the Parade Ground, where chaos ensued. The day ended by marching to Club Crozet to the sound of bagpipes led by Moe! Legacy Day is sponsored annually in April by the Alumni Agencies and run by cadet volunteers— great fun for kids ages 5-18.

It was great to see many brother rats at the celebration of life service for BR Glenn Trimmer in June. Those attending were Dennis Loba ’80 (Glenn’s dyke), Mike Davis, Mark Stagg,

Class of 1977: Dennis Loba ’80, Mike Davis, Mark Stagg, Jerry Haste, Bob Hartzell, Gary Haste, Shelton Rhodes, Tim Liles, Mark Bryant, Steve Kelly, Mick Lafferty, Tom Orrell, Mort Mumma, Mark Waldrop, and Rich Humenuck at Glenn Trimmer’s celebration of life service in Fredericksburg, Virginia, June 26, 2024.

Class of 1977: The VMI wreath given by members of the class at Glenn Trimmer’s celebration of life service in Fredericksburg, Virginia, June 26, 2024.

Class of 1977: Kimber Latsha and his grandson, Finn Elhajj, are pictured at Legacy Day in April 2024 with Mark Hunt and his grandson, Bodhi Rhodes.

Jerry Haste, Bob Hartzell, Gary Haste, Shelton Rhodes, Tim Liles, Mark Bryant, Steve Kelly, Mick Lafferty, Tom Orrell, Mort Mumma, Mark Waldrop, and Rich Humenuck. Special thanks to Tim Liles and Tom Orrell for helping Glenn’s family during this time of loss. Tim Liles was kind enough to write an After Taps for Glenn. Please keep Becky and the family in prayer in the coming months. Rich Humenuck wrote a great story honoring Glenn and his work preserving Civil War history that I previously posted. Let me know if you have not seen it. Thanks, Rich, for your great tribute to Glenn.

The next set of class notes is due in November. Please take time to send me an email and pictures to share with your brother rats.

Stay safe out there!

Tick

Brother Rats and Friends of the Class, It is hard to believe it has been half a century since we matriculated. As you read these notes, 50 years ago, we would have been anticipating the

first real break of rat year, Thanksgiving. That should bring back some fond memories—time with family, bringing home BRs who could not be with family, and especially for the New York/New Jersey bus riders. I heard the stories and can only imagine. As we approach our 50th Reunion, our class has been invited to participate in the newest rat class’ journey through the Institute.

The Pass in Review Program, PIR, was started by our dykes, the Class of ’75, as a way to connect the Old Corps and the current Corps. This program is intended to create bonds and relationships between current cadets and members of the 50-year class over a 4-year period. It is a mutually beneficial relationship from which current cadets receive critical advice and mentorship, while members of the 50-year class have an opportunity to assist in the development of future military and civilian leaders. In our case it is 78+50; I dare not write the number until they earn it.

Several BRs attended matriculation to begin building the relationship with 2025+3. As the new class progresses through barracks, there will be other opportunities to make connections with 2025+3. The next event will be the class’ Breakout sometime around February, and we will be invited to participate. Look for details in your email and the class Facebook page as February approaches.

Now for the news from around the class:

Vagel Keller: “Jim and Regina Mackin [hosted] Debbie and me at their wonderful home in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina, where we spent a fun day being wined and dined while catching up on where we’ve been for the past 45 years. Short chats at 5-year reunion intervals aren’t sufficient.

“Thanks to Jim and Regina for putting us up for an overnight away from the camper on our 3-week camp-a-ganza down the Yorktown Peninsula to Virginia Beach and on to the OBX.”

Mark Seely: “All right from the island of Bornholm! Rosemary and I are on a cruise to Scandinavia and the British Isles and enjoying a wonderful Scandinavian summer.”

Mike McCarthy: “Reporting ‘all right’ status. I am settling into my position at VMI as the strategic planning officer for the superintendent. I am camping at Glenn Dallinger’s house until I get housing on post. Glenn is down in Florida helping his mother out and will be back this fall. It is strange but comfortable being back in uniform every day.”

Les Shimanek: “I am doing well. Janet and I moved back to Pennsylvania last June, closer to

the grandson and loving life.”

Bob Longwell: “All OK. Met with Steve Ketterer in April at VMI. We both hid from the TAC, OD, and commandant. We had a lot of laughs. I was pretty impressed with all the cadets I spoke with during my visit. Female and male cadets were all very impressive and a breath of fresh air. Ned Reister organized a dinner with several cadets. It was absolutely, absolutely, absolutely enjoyable. I would like my classmates to know I was truly impressed with VMI. All my brother rats should be proud. It is still an amazing place producing leaders for tomorrow.”

Jim Simons: “All is well here in Rockbridge. I enjoyed a pleasant visit with Dwight and Cindy Weirich at their home in Ocala during my spring trip to Florida. With only a few months left before I finally retire, I’m scrambling to complete my lengthy list of home improvement projects

Class of 1977: Max and Karen Floyd atop Mount Sherman in the Colorado Rockies in July 2024.

1978

Tom Brown

Class of 1978: Mark and Rosemary Seely on the Danish island of Bornholm during a cruise to Scandinavia and the British Isles.

Class of 1978: Vagel and Debbie Keller with Regina and Jim Mackin at the Mackins’ home in Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina.

before the paychecks stop coming. I’m now planning the September outing of the VMI alumni pier fishing club to be held on the Virginia Beach Fishing Pier Sept. 14. I would encourage all classmates within driving distance to participate in these twice-a-year outings. Bait, tackle, and plenty of advice are available on the pier. I’m also trying to get an alumni trapshooting league started. My concept is to establish regional clubs of shooters of all skill levels ranging from beginner on up in NOVA, Richmond, Lynchburg-Roanoke, the Tidewater and the Shenandoah Valley for local shoots, culminating in an annual competition in Lexington. If there’s anyone interested in working with me on this project, I’d certainly appreciate the help. Finally, I’d like to express my appreciation to those classmates who stepped up to offer support to Jay Branscome’s wife, Iris, in the wake of his untimely passing in June. Jay and I became friends in our earliest days at VMI and later became roommates, sticking together through good times and bad. No matter the circumstances, Jay was always smiling.”

Garry Brumback: “Been a while since I contributed. I have retired for the last time this month and Jenn and I plan to split our time between Florida and New York. Congratulations to 78+50!”

Steve Craig: “All right!”

Jerry Placzek: “Doing well in Perrysburg.”

Rick Wolffe: “Paul Kenny, Ned Riester, and I attended a rat send-off for New Jersey incoming rats. Good time for all and good advice for the rats.”

Mackin, Rick McDonald, Dave Gray, Mark McKissick, Bill Reagan ’88, Pete Mangerian ’85, Tim Berkhimer, and Ken Blythe. Not pictured is Steve Andrews ’80.

Ron Carter: “Dave Montgomery and I will be on post Sept. 6. All is well!”

Bob Fricke: “All’s well in Colorado Springs. Working on a VMI Alumni Association fly fishing trip for spring ’25.”

Nelson Curtis: “All right!”

Mike Freeman: “All right in Central North Carolina, was spared the wind and rain. Golf game seems to be improving. Well, Monday it did. Plan on catching a few football games this year and celebrating the 50th anniversary of the ’74 football championship in early November.”

Kevin Callanan: “No change at the Callanan household.”

Rob Parker: “Watching Olympics and thinking back to our swim and water polo days—50 years, what the #$%@. I’m done in Saudi; moved into

the home built on Daufuskie Island and loving life in the low country. All is good!”

Dan Tuck: “All good in here in Tampa, still with HQ SOCOM’s JICSOC. Retirement getting close; another 1-and-a-half, and I think it’ll be time to hang it up. All this craziness in the world and here at home; not sure what we’ve left for our children to clean up—tough road in store for them. Anyway, Harris is still on my itinerary to get together.”

Leland Horn: “Morning! All good here. On the downhill of yet another service-related sinus infection. Blessed with good doctors and modern chemistry!”

Chris Stone: “Checking in ‘all right.’ Just returned from 10 days in Spain vacationing with my grandkids on the coast. Spent some time in Madrid, which was great since I lived in Madrid for

4 years. Always helps to speak the language, too.”

Bob Simpson: “We are looking forward to the William & Mary game. Bob and Shelia Brown will be staying with us in Williamsburg that weekend. Will be good to see them and all the BRs who attend the game. I am loving retirement. Have got my golf game into the 80s, which is a major accomplishment.”

Bob Beaver: “Jay Hutt, Steve Thompson, and I gathered with Dave Mecredy along with his family for the celebration of life for his mother. His family consists of his two brothers, both VMI alumni, and his father, an alumnus.”

Tom Tucker: “Nothing has changed here in Warrenton, Virginia. All OK!”

Pete Manoso: “All OK in Newport News, Virginia. Thanks to ‘Ranger Bob’ Simpson for kicking off the Class of 1978 Pass in Review program by meeting with Alex Black of Williamsburg, Virginia, days before her arrival at VMI Aug. 14 to try out for the VMI cross country team. I hope you will join me in welcoming Alex; mom, Denise; and dad, Greg, to the VMI family. Alex follows in the footsteps of a long line of VMI alumni from Denbigh United Presbyterian Church, Newport News, Virginia, including Jan Gray ’63, Edward Keesee ’88, Karen Bill ’07, and Josh Silva ’22. Congratulations to Alex and the Rat Mass of 1978+50 for their selection as the newest members of the VMI Corps of Cadets. Best wishes for their continued success.”

Rob Traver: “Doing well! Went to a rat sendoff picnic, Bert Graham ’74, and met several new cadets and their parents. Terpeluk ’75 was there; we ran into each other a few times over the years in the reserve. We tried not to tell too many Old Corps stories and failed immediately but didn’t scare anyone away.”

John Tucker: “‘All right’ in Columbus, Ohio.”

Alec Earle: “All right in Las Vegas! We are enjoying life with lots of golf, pickleball, and travel.”

Bill Robertson: “Nancy and I enjoyed catching up over dinner with Dave and Susan Mecredy and Steve Thompson while we were in Augusta, Georgia, in June. In August, Nancy and I enjoyed an evening meal in Midlothian with Tim and Cynthia Pishdad, Paul Mitchell, and Carl Esche.”

Dave Mecredy: “Susan and I performed at the

Class of 1978: Susan and Dave Mecredy at the National Night Out event in Le Sueur, Minnesota, with the Upper Room Band.

Class of 1978: Pictured after a fishing trip in Newport News, Virginia, June 8, are (from left) Jim Simons, Jim

National Night Out event in Le Sueur, Minnesota, with the Upper Room Band. I played guitar, banjo, and lead vocals. Susan covered violin and backing vocals. It was a gorgeous night for music and food.”

Sadly, I must report the passing of BR Jay Branscome June 24 in Hume, Virginia. He served with honor and valor in the U.S. Army as a staff sergeant and was a veteran of Operation Desert Storm during the Gulf War. He will be greatly missed.

This concludes the latest news from around the class. As we get closer to our 50th Reunion, please keep in touch with your BRs. If you have the opportunity, send along the news of your connection when it happens instead of waiting for a status check. Staying connected is crucial to keeping the spirit alive. With that in mind, if you are not receiving class emails, let me know or contact Norma Robinson, nrobinson@vmiaa.org, at the VMI Alumni Agencies. Information for our events is also posted to the class Facebook page, VMI 78. As always, time to send along your latest status!

In the Spirit, Tom/EZ Bear

1979

Howard “Chappy” Lucas

Lucas, Frank Jester, Rick McDonough, Dave Choplinski, Bill Drewery, Jay Gede, and Nick Collins. The memorial service was a true testament to Steve’s amazing spirit and his nevermet-a-stranger personality. Steve will be greatly missed as our thoughts and prayers continue to be with his wife and his family.

In the category of it is a small world, Frank Jester wrote that his mother and Steve Powers’ mother were good friends while in high school in Florida. They had not seen each other after graduating from high school until they were reunited again

years later when we matriculated!

Ray Whitner wrote that he was able to get together with Dennis Staples, Harlan Niehaus, Andy Neff, and Steve Lyon at a recent VMIAA Charlotte, North Carolina, Chapter luncheon. During this luncheon, Ray was also able to reconnect with his dyke’s roommate, Mike Outten ’76. This was the first time he has seen Mike since 1976. Ray reported they had a great time catching up!

Asa Page checked in to report he and Karen had just gotten back from a trip out to Colorado and Wyoming. Their son, Addison Page ’14, is preparing for a job-related move to the Rocky Mountains, so they joined him, having never ventured beyond the Denver airport while connecting to other flights. It did not take long for both of them to fall in love with the high country of Wyoming and Colorado. Asa was intending to retire this coming December; however, his boss convinced him to stick around for another year or two, meaning they are now going to have more time to decide where they will actually retire. So far, they have made multiple trips to portions of Northern and Southern Utah and the states of Idaho, Wyoming, Arizona, Nevada, Colorado, Washington, and Oregon exploring small mountain towns with retirement in mind. Asa’s only requirement for their next digs is to be near a trout stream!

BRs,

I trust this finds you safe and well. I want to thank everyone who checked in since the last class notes. Turning to the current notes: Dave Jeter wrote that, in May, he, Tom Baltazar, and Mark Byrd, along with their lovely wives, Cindy, Karen, and Rhonda, toured Paris and northern France on a river cruise. One of the stops was Normandy, where they visited both Utah and Omaha Beaches, which was a powerful experience for all of them. Dave reported the whole trip was one great experience after another. Hank Chase checked in to report: “I recently reconnected over a meal with my roommate, Kon Shin, who was back in the States temporarily from Korea. Kon has two adult sons, one a LCDR in the Navy, two grandsons, and a granddaughter. Kon still looks dangerous after 45 years.”

The class was well-represented at Steve Heatwole’s memorial service. Attendees included Phil Southers, John Arthur, Anthony Pais, Jeb Burton, Brad Burns, Dave Jeter, Staff Taylor, Mike Oden, Steve Powers, Tom Whitlow, Chappy

Bill Albro checked in reporting he had run into quite a few BRs over the past few months: “Reggie Sadler, Larry Adams, and I played a round of golf. Larry was down here visiting Hilton Head Island and caught up with Reggie to arrange a golf outing. We played best ball, and it’s a good thing Larry’s game is improving, as I was not contributing much to the effort. Reggie and I played golf again later this summer and then had lunch with Pete Alvarez. Pete was down visiting his wife’s parents. We caught up on all the goings on, and Pete even picked up the lunch tab; what a great BR!”

Bill continued to write, “I made a weeklong trip to Virginia. First stop was Smith Mountain Lake and to attend Jim Hart ’81’s 45th ski bash. My brother, Tom Albro ’81, had space in his tent. This was a great gathering of the VMI family across many generations. Literally BRs, kids, and grandkids all having a great time. I will leave it to the ’81 notes to capture who was there, but the food, music, bonfire, fireworks, skiing, and fellowship were outstanding. I am told that Class of ’79 is invited to attend future festivities. After the ski bash, I drove to Whitestone and stayed at Sput Leadbetter’s place. Sput is endeavoring to get his HVAC squared away in Richmond before going to Whitestone for the summer. I got up early the

Class of 1979: Touring the Normandy, France, beaches in May 2024 are (from left) Tom and Karen Baltazar, Dave and Cindy Jeter, and Rhonda and Mark Byrd.

Class of 1979: Larry Adams, Reggie Sadler, and Bill Albro playing golf at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, in summer 2024.

next morning to go fishing with Brad Jones. Brad caught three, and I caught nothing (I am not much of a fisherman, as Brad will attest). It was a great and peaceful time, even if I did not catch anything. I enjoyed it so much that I did it again the next day. This time, I caught one fish, and Brad caught two. Brad was so impressed that he called Jeb Burton to brag that I actually had caught a fish! And I can report the fish were delicious! Brad and Maria had their kids and grandkids at their house, so we went from peaceful fishing to chaos with the young ones. After finishing fishing and visiting Brad and Maria on that Sunday, I closed up at Whitestone and relocated to Doug Mauck’s place in Topping. We did a project Monday and ate one of Brad’s fish before I went home Tuesday. Whirlwind week of seeing folks in Virginia!”

Bill also reported he talked with John Arthur, and all is well with him. Bill exchanged texts with Sam Murphy, who reported he is doing good. At the request of some of the ’81 ski bash attendees, Bill talked to Meade Spotts and Bill Smithson to relay their best wishes. Both Meade and Bill reported they are doing fine. Bill also checked in with Noel Harris about the goings on in “North” Virginia. Noel reported that all is well, and he is getting things sorted out at work and on the farm.

Jim Leavitt recently sold his company, Grand Cayman Villas & Condos, to a larger company. Jim wrote, “This will allow me the next 16 months to slowly transition into retirement, slow down, and travel, play golf, and spend time with grandchildren.” Jim started this business in 2003 and is grateful for the successes they had along the way in Grand Cayman.

Parke Smith checked in to report all is well out in Colorado, as he is enjoying the mountain hiking and biking.

Keith Ranker checked in to report he used one of those ancestry DNA kits to learn that, in addition to his already understood Germanic background, he was also 24% Swedish-Dutch and 1% Italian! He also learned his ancestors came from the Dutch-German border, the same area fought over during World War II’s Operation Market Garden.

The class was well represented at the annual VMI Football Reunion held in early August. Attending were Nick Collins, Joe Corsaro, Ray Duffett, Ed Negro, Dave Pyle, Al Soltis, and Greg Weaver. Dave reported Al was one of the primary organizers and did a great job. A good time was had by all!

Class Notes

BRs also checking in or attending one or more of our monthly class calls include Tim Bridges, Pete Underwood, Lee Moise, John Poffenbarger, John Blake, George Eliades, Dave Pyle, Ben Bauman, John Colonna, Dan Kornacki, Doug Doerr, Jeff Goldhardt, Jeff Smith, Glenn Higgins, Jeff Vordermark, Tom Manley, Wayne Skinner, Charles West, Tom Wilson, Tim Ritzert, Ralph Briggs, Mike Weatherholtz, John Kailey, Jeff Minnix, Grady Andrews, Burley Byrd, Brian Tollie, Rick Pugh, Carl Jackson, Jim LaRose, Bill McCarthy, J.R. Pigg, Bill Hamlin, Jose Gomez, Mike Ogden, Rodney DeCorte, Randy Atkins, Bruce Reinard, Ed Buck, and Greg Quinn. In closing, thanks to everyone for your

continuing support and assistance! While these notes will be published after our upcoming reunion, I trust they will add to the memories we have from our reunion. And, if it has been a while since you last connected with a BR, take the time today to reach out and reconnect!

RVM!

1980

John Gibney Jr.

Hello, Brother Rats!

These notes cover the period May 16, 2024, through Aug. 15, 2024.

The period began with a call with Ed Baker. Ed reached out after the New York Rangers defeated the Carolina Hurricanes in the Stanley Cup playoffs. Ed and Dianna live in the Outer Banks and are Canes fans. I am a Rangers fan. Ed and Diana planned to drive across the country beginning in June along the northern route and return via the southern route in July.

Steve Andrews sent a text with a photo taken following three separate surgeries—carpal tunnel on each hand and eye surgery. All went well, and Steve is on the mend.

Jeff Washington sent a text with photos taken with Renee at Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon as part of a trip to Las Vegas that Renee gave Jeff for his birthday.

According to VMI, three of our BRs have a common mid-May birthday: Paul Burkholder, Dave Hagemann, and Dennis Jacobs. In addition, Hal Snyder also shares their birthday, and the record is now correct. I reached out in one email message. Each responded and passed along best wishes to the others.

I exchanged email with Tracy Wilson following Manchester City winning the English Premier League title (soccer for Americans, football for Brits). Tracy responded that he watches wearing his Man City jersey. Tracy also sent a text in August containing a link to the 2024–25 season. I replied that Patti and I will be in London in October; however, we will be there during the week that the EPL is off.

Class of 1979: Attending the VMI Football Reunion in August 2024 are (from left) Nick Collins, Ed Negro, Al Soltis, Dave Pyle, Greg Weaver, Ray Duffett, and Joe Corsaro.

Class of 1979: Attending the July 2024 Charlotte Chapter luncheon are (from left) Ray Whitner, Andy Neff, Harlan Niehaus, Steve Lyon, Dennis Staples, and Mike Outten ’76.

I exchanged email (belatedly) with Jonathan Ives on his birthday. Jonathan and his wife, Whitney, and their two daughters are still in Germany, where Jonathan is still serving in the Army. He again extended an invite to all passing through.

I spoke at length with Dwight Pearson on his birthday. Dwight is retired but in school in Key West, Florida, where he is studying biology and reef biology. In a follow-up message, Dwight wrote that he returned home to Pittsburgh before Hurricane Debby arrived.

I exchanged email messages with Paul Keel on his birthday. Paul wrote that he had a great birthday, as his pastor asked him to preach at his church while he was out of town. Paul and Angela live in Hawaii but had a 3-week trip to the mainland during April. Angela was in St. Louis training for her job. Paul spent a week in Richmond visiting family and was able to connect with Jeff Washington and Gene Scott for dinner one evening.

Rob Quarles copied me on an email to Yves Pollart. Rob is traveling to Rhode Island in August and passing through Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where Yves lives. Rob plans to spend the night with Yves and Lori, then continue on to NYC for one night then on to New England to visit with Pat Griffin. I planned to have dinner with Rob and Elizabeth when they are in the city. However, his plans changed, and we did not get together in NYC (see below).

I exchanged text messages with John Casamassa on his birthday. John wrote that he is loving life in Florida. He also sent two photos, one taken with his son, who just separated from the Army where he served with the 5th Special Forces Group, and the other with a picture of his daughter, Mary, who won the Women’s International Boxing Association Super Middleweight Championship in March.

Dave Hagemann sent a text with a video and a photo taken at son Caleb’s wedding in Las Vegas.

I exchanged text messages with Jed TenHoeve on his birthday. Jed wrote that he moved from Chevy Chase, Maryland, to Richmond to be near his grandchildren and joined the Country Club of Virginia, where he sees a lot of VMI guys. I also exchanged email messages with Ivan Pupulidy on his birthday. Ivan thanked me for his birthday card and included an invite to Santa Fe. Kirk Deadrick responded to a birthday email message saying that he was flying home.

May ended with an email from Walt Wood with an attached photo. Walt was in Boise, where he hoped to connect with Mike Kelly and Tom Kelly. Walt and Mary Lynne traveled from Atlanta to Boise, Idaho, and stopped to visit John Hughes in Kansas City. Walt noted that John is recovering from surgery to address injuries he suffered in 2005 while on active duty and is excited to attend our 45th. They were joined by Jim Lunsford, who also lives in the Kansas City area. Walt and Mary Lynne were then headed to Alaska.

June began with an email to Kent Lovejoy on his birthday. Robin replied noting that Kent is recovering from a stroke suffered in February. They were planning to visit VMI in early June with some of our BRs who live in the Roanoke area to renew their wedding vows in Memorial Hall with Chaplain Caudill.

Jack Keane copied me on an email message that expanded on the message Robin sent the previous day, encouraging others in the area to attend. In a follow-up message, Jack wrote that the plans had changed, and the ceremony would be postponed until June 27. Jack also contracted COVID-19. Frank Hilton and Dan Sweeney passed along their best to Jack. In a subsequent message, Jack wrote that the event is postponed until November and that Jack is having ankle surgery. Joe Belkoski and Chal Glenn responded to Jack with hopes for a speedy recovery.

Frank Hilton sent two text messages with photos from Normandy, where he and Wanda traveled with

Class of 1980: Brother rats gather in Richmond, Virginia, for a memorial service for Tolar Nolley in May 2024.

Class of 1980: Frank Hilton, Scott Sayre, Mike Knapp, and Bob Dalessandro in Normandy, France, in June 2024.

Class of 1980: Chal Glenn and Rick Gilbert in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, in June 2024.

Scott and Mary Sayre for the 80th anniversary of D-Day. One of the photos included Mike Knapp and Bob Dalessandro

Bert Schneider sent two messages, one with an attached video created during a camping adventure at Woods Canyon Lake in Arizona. Bert and Peggy live in Arizona, and the second message contained a photo of them celebrating their 42nd anniversary.

Each year after receiving his birthday card, Robby Jones replies via snail mail. Robby played in the “Pup Cup,” the annual Keydet Club golf outing in support of the Jeff Morgan scholarship, with Allen Ramer and John Blankenship

I exchanged email messages with Martin Bernet on his birthday. Marty replied that all is well. I also exchanged texts with John Hughes on his birthday, with copies to Bruno Loefstedt and Phil Munisteri. John wrote that he is feeling better and is in occupational therapy and looking forward to marching with our class as we pass in review at our 45th.

I exchanged email messages with Joe Paustenbaugh on his birthday. Joe sent a photo and wrote that all is well, and he is enjoying retirement life. He had just returned home from camping in the High Uintas Wilderness area in northeastern Utah.

I exchanged email messages with Sean Gallagher on his birthday. Sean wrote that things are going well in the northwest empire. In February, Sean and Liz moved to Depoe Bay, Oregon, about 1/4 mile from the beach but within earshot of the surf. They took their second cruise to Alaska in May as an anniversary celebration. They will be traveling to Fairbanks in December to see the northern lights close up.

Chal Glenn sent several text messages with photos. One photo was taken on an Alaskan cruise and included Rick Gilbert and Mark McLean

June closed with an email from Jack Keane containing the VMI Class of 1980 Foundation (vmi80.org) June 2024 Newsletter. Jack wrote that, after 2 years, he will be stepping down as president, with Rick Fowler assuming the duties as interim president until the voting board members elect a ninth voting member, followed by the election of a new president.

July began with an exchange of email messages with Bob Evans on his birthday. Bob wrote that all is well. I sent an email message to Fred Winkler on his birthday. Sheryl replied that Fred says thank you. She also wrote that Fred retired

from the DEA in 2011 and worked at the State Department until 2021, at which time he fully retired from government service. They moved from Virginia to South Carolina when their daughter, Danielle, moved to Charleston and are now retired in Brunswick, Georgia.

Mike Luning sent an update on the plans that a group of our BRs have to attend the Sept. 21 football game at VMI. Most of the group will be staying in a house rented for the weekend. As of Aug. 15, our BRs who plan to attend are Tom Bersson, Dan Conn, Boyd Gaines, Dave Hagemann, Larry Hupertz, Gary Levenson, Mike Luning, Frank McConnell, Rob Quarles, Rob Robinson, Dixon Tucker, and Tony Zoetis. Patti and I will also attend. Activities include dinner Thursday and Friday, golf Friday, breakfast Saturday at the Pink Cadillac diner, a pregame party at the rented house, attendance at parade and the game, and dinner at Rob Quarles’ house post-game.

Chal Glenn sent text messages with photos, and we then spoke. Chal was in Myrtle Beach

with Doug Conyers, Rick Gilbert, Robby Jones, and Mark McLean and participated in a golf event, which his team won. Chal and Robin are expecting their fourth grandchild and plan to attend the football game at VMI against The Citadel in October.

I exchanged email messages with Jeff Basilotta on his birthday. Jeff is a future analyst in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas.

Craig Jones sent an email after receiving his birthday card. Craig is retired, and he and Tammy are enjoying life in West End, North Carolina. Craig is involved in various local ministries, singing in choruses, playing harmonica with cover bands, and umpiring baseball.

I exchanged email messages with Brian Hub on his birthday. Brian is enjoying retirement in Alabama, keeping busy with hobbies and his grandkids.

Walt Wood wrote in an email that he spoke with John Hughes and John said that he is very pleased with the results of his recent surgeries and is looking forward to our 45th. Walt also wrote that he turned 70 and had his hip replaced. He is recovering and hopes to get back to hiking the Appalachian Trail in the fall.

I exchanged text messages and calls with Rob Robinson on his birthday. Rob may visit NYC to visit his daughter, and if he does, we will get together, possibly at a steakhouse. Rob had dinner with Jay and Trudy Melvin and Rob and Elizabeth Quarles at a steakhouse in the Roanoke area, and I mentioned that Jay and Trudy may visit NYC in the fall with an agenda item being dinner at Peter Luger Steak House in Brooklyn. We also discussed the September football weekend noted above.

August began with an exchange of email messages with Phil Altizer on his birthday. Phil wrote that he and Lisa still live in Bartlett, Tennessee, where Phil is an account executive with Roche Diagnostics Corporation. They spend as much time as they can on the Tennessee River. They will be first-time grandparents to twins Aug. 17. He also wrote that he had lunch in Roanoke in May with Scott Hodge

I spoke and then exchanged text messages with Frank Hilton. Patti and I are traveling to Normandy in October, and I reached out to Frank for advice, given his visit there in June (see above). Patti and I plan to have dinner with Frank

Class of 1980: Brother rats gather at the Lexington Golf & Country Club in March 2024.

Class of 1980: Jim Lunsford and Walt Wood visit John Hughes in Kansas City, Missouri, in May 2024.

and Wanda on our way to Lexington in September.

Hal Snyder sent an email requesting Landon Wellford’s contact information, which I provided.

Tim Hodges traveled from Lexington, where he is retired from teaching at VMI, to the Poconos, through Hurricane Debby’s remnants, to again be my partner in my golf club’s member-guest tournament. This is his third visit. We missed in 2023, as I contracted COVID-19 a week before the event.

Rob Quarles’ trip north (see above) included a detour through southeast Pennsylvania before traveling to Rhode Island to visit with Pat and Beth Griffin. On their trip back to Roanoke, Rob and Elizabeth planned to make a pit stop at our house in the Poconos. However, Hurricane Debby put the kibosh on my member-guest tournament, canceled after Tim Hodges arrived Friday afternoon, so Tim returned to Lexington, Patti and I returned to NYC, and Rob did not stop on his way back to Roanoke.

Dennis Maguire sent a text with a picture of a license plate taken on Cape Cod that read “OYSTAAH,” noting that he thought of Tolar Nolley. I sent a text to Gene Scott on his birthday with copies to Steve Andrews, Ken Baybutt, John Blankenship, Dusty Boyd, John Caplice, and Hugh Fain. Gene replied with a picture taken with Zymora in Norway.

I sent an email to Allen Ramer on his birthday with copies to and responses from John Blankenship, Dusty Boyd, Kirk Deadrick, Hugh Fain, Jay Melvin, Josh Priest, Tom Wilson (with a black and white photo taken while we were cadets), and Elliott Wolffe. I also spoke with Allen, who is fully retired and working on his farm. He planned to celebrate at the local Fredericksburg minor league baseball game. He also plans to attend football games at VMI this year.

I exchanged emails with Bob White on his birthday. Bob is retired, and Traci will be retiring early next year. Bob’s golf game is getting better, and he and Traci plan to attend the Masters in April 2025 and the Ryder Cup in September 2025. This September, they are taking a Viking River Cruise from the Netherlands to Switzerland.

Throughout the period, I exchanged email messages and spoke with Wade Stinnette. Wade and Lannie live in Columbia, South Carolina, and came through Hurricane Debby without any issues.

Chal Glenn and Ken Trotman also replied to text messages that they came through Hurricane Debby with no issues.

I exchanged separate email messages with Rob Liguori and Pete Peterman on their shared birthday. Pete replied that they are doing well. Rob

Class notes

wrote that he is doing well, still working full-time, and preparing for retirement at the end of 2025. Rob works remotely and moved from the Raleigh area to Western North Carolina.

Andy Ludlum sent a text requesting contact information for Forrest Marion, which was provided. I also spoke with Andy, who is retired and lives in Maryland, where he and Nicki keep busy with their five grandchildren. Andy also said that they were planning to visit with Rob and Ginger Gearhart in Fredericksburg.

Coincidently, Rob Gearhart sent an email asking if our 45th has been scheduled, as he is making 2025 travel plans. As of Aug. 15, our reunion dates have not been determined, although it is likely that the reunion will occur in September.

Patrick McCarthy sent an email with a prayer calendar, noting that he and a team of 62 will be traveling to Peru for a 10-day mission.

Tom Shedd sent an email after receiving his birthday card. Tom Lives in Fort Mill, South Carolina, and attended an Old Corps luncheon in Charlotte and a rat send-off in Fort Mill. He was the only member of our class at each event.

Ed Baker sent a text message after receiving the Alumni Review. Ed and Dianna returned to their home on the Outer Banks after their 5-week, 7,500-mile cross-country trip that included visits to Mount Rushmore and the Badlands.

Please take a few minutes to confirm that your information on the VMI database (vmialumni.org/ ranks) is up to date. Accurate information is essential to keeping you informed, especially with regard to our 45th Reunion. Reach out if you need assistance.

Finally, some alumni opt out of receiving communication from VMI. This can be accomplished while still receiving communication (email, cards, etc.) from me. Please contact me if you have any questions.

Thank you for your continuing support and for keeping me in the loop via phone calls, text messages, and email. Apologies for any delayed responses.

1981

Jerry Manley

Brother Rats, Family, and Friends of ’81, Heartfelt greetings to you all!

These notes are being written in mid-August for publication in November. So, I extend to

you all an early wish for a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving! In my humble opinion, every Thanksgiving we should be grateful for the many blessings we have all received and shared over the years, not the least of which is our VMI brotherhood! So, with an “attitude of gratitude” for you all, let me push forward with our class notes. I will start out by sharing we did not receive many inputs for our class notes this go around. I am sure everyone is busy and will attribute the low input to many having summer demands, travel schedules, family events, etc. With that, I hope to hear from more of you before our November submission and hope to see many mini reunions or gatherings. I promise to send out many more harassing emails and texts next go around! (Ha!) Since our last submission for the Review back in May, we have had several class celebrations of note. First and foremost was our May 14 celebration at the commandant’s quarters on post. We had one heck of a turnout to recognize BR Adrian Bogart’s successful end of tour as the 58th commandant of the VMI Corps of Cadets, as well as recognizing BR Scot Marsh for his 8 years of dedicated service as a member of the VMI Board of Visitors. It was a tremendous event with 81 (yes, 81, just as reported in the last Review) people in attendance, including over 50 BRs and many family members and friends. Tremendous thanks go, once again, to Mark and Maria Gonsalves, Rob “Cos” and Jen Costello, and Katherine Denton for their support in planning, logistics, set up, decorations, and execution that made the event such a success! Many others contributed throughout the day and evening, and you all have our gratitude, as well. The attendees were far too great to list individually in this article, and I fear I would overlook a name or two. However, I will call out the very special guests who graced our event, Chaplain Charles and Jan Caudill. It would not be a class event in Lexington without them! Again, it was a tremendous event and fully enjoyed by all. The presentation of gifts by “Sloppy, Bogey, and Anvil Head” was heartwarming. There is a lot of love and pride in this class of ours, and rightfully so. (Speaking directly to Adrian Bogart and Scot Marsh on behalf of the class, we thank you both for your dedicated leadership and laudable contributions to VMI. We are proud to call you both brother rats.)

Another solid class representation worth celebrating were the BRs who played in the annual Conexus Golf Classic at the Hermitage Country Club. Showing our class colors were BRs Mike Denton, Bruce Gitchell, Bruce Kitchen, John Locher, Ron Mislowsky, Billy Stamm, and Keith Wells. BR John Locher is instrumental in putting on this golf tournament each year and shared the

following on the honorable event:

“At Conexus (formerly Prevent Blindness Virginia), our mission is to save the sight in children. We work throughout Virginia to remove poor vision as a barrier to a child’s success in the classroom. One in four school-aged children have a vision problem significant enough to impact learning. In economically challenged communities in Central Virginia, one in three school-aged children have a vision problem. This creates a significant barrier to a child’s opportunity for success in the classroom and in life, given that 80% of what a child learns in a normal classroom setting is through vision. I’ve been on the board of Conexus since 2004, serving 6 of these 20 years as the chairman of the board. During this time on the Conexus board, we have provided technology-based vision screenings to 519,570 children, of which 167,703 had vision problems requiring glasses or other corrective measures. In 2014, Conexus purchased the 2,650-square-foot office building adjoining our Richmond headquarters with the goal of creating our own vision clinic and eyeglasses lab. Working with the very generous Richmond area subcontracting community, my firm, Taylor & Parrish, Inc., was able to provide this $750,000 major renovation project at no cost to Conexus. In 2018, Conexus purchased our first mobile vision clinic and currently have three mobile vision clinics. Since its inception, the Conexus Mobile Vision Clinics have provided 21,594 eye exams and provided 16,642 pairs of glasses from our eyeglass lab. During the 2023–24 school year, our mobile vision clinics provided 6,455 eye exams, prescribing and providing 5,044 pairs of glasses and referring 345 children for additional eye care. A significant fundraiser for Conexus is our annual Conexus Golf Classic. I’ve been the chairman of the Conexus Golf Classic since 2004. Our annual tournament is held at Hermitage Country Cub on their two beautiful 18-hole courses in ManakinSabot, Virginia. Our Conexus golf tournament is a sell-out every year with 50 teams totaling 200 golfers. Through the Conexus Golf Classic, we have raised in excess of $2.1 million during my 20

years with Conexus. Within 48 hours of the completion of our 33rd annual golf tournament June 17, 2024, we had 36 teams signed up for [next year’s] 2025 Conexus Golf Classic. Every year, it is a great tournament and a great day in support of our sight-saving mission for the children of Virginia.” (For John, outstanding cause and selfless leadership, sir. Very proud of you and all you do to support this amazing mission.)

I received a great input from BR Ken Pohlig. Ken shared the following: “After 31 years with the state of North Carolina as a Department of Environmental Quality division of water infrastructure employee and supervisor of the wastewater unit, I retired from the state. But I quickly began working at WithersRavenel consulting firm in Raleigh. Challenging but rewarding. On the weekends, I enjoy spending time with some of my seven grandchildren and my wife of 32 years, Kimberly. For 18 years, I taught physics to homeschool high school students. I teach a deaf class at my church in Cary in ASL and, additionally, I teach a bright autistic middle schooler an electronics class. Occasionally, I see Dave Taylor, and at Hurricane ice hockey games, I can catch up with Ed Andrews ’70 The good Lord has kept my wife of my youth and me well, and we are enjoying every day to the fullest. We are blessed!” (Ken shared a great

Class of 1981: Brother rats and their dykes at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, in July 2024 are Tom Albro, Dan Grillone ’84, John Ferry, Barry Coceano ’84, Jim Hart, and Jeff White ’84.

Class of 1981: Gathering with Ed Oast at the Lake Taylor Transitional Care Hospital in Norfolk, Virginia, in May 2024 are (from left) Jeff Davies, Jim Hart, Ed, John Holloway, and Jerry Manley.

Class of 1981: Attending the class’ annual ski bash event at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, in July 2024 are (from left) Tom Albro, Jim Hart, Jerry Manley, Geoff Hinshelwood, Dave Hinchee, Pete Tranchik, John Ditillo, Clinker Moss, Rob “Cos” Costello, Bill Stamm, John Ferry, Hank Lee, and Gator Underwood.

Hospital. BRs who have been steadfast in their support through personal visitations include Larry Butler, Rob “Cos” Costello, Jeff Davies, Jim Hart, Geoff Hinshelwood, John Holloway, and Wirt Shinault As I write this, BR Rich Nehls is back in Norfolk from Naples, Italy, for a conference and is hoping to visit with Ed before he flies back “over the pond.” Others in the class, and even one of our rats, my dyke, Frank Kollmansperger ’84, have also made visits or provided support through direct communications with Ed and his wife, Stewart. Stewart has expressed her heartfelt thanks for our class support both in personal visits and in written communications. (God bless Dan, Laura, Ed, and Stewart. We pray for each of you, your healing, strength, and comfort.)

great camaraderie with great stories shared and re-shared. Karl Betz even brought a bottle of our class bourbon, which was depleted in a round of toasts for our class and those BRs who have gone before us. An outstanding time was had by all, and as is the case every year, we can’t possibly thank the extended Hart family enough! I am already looking forward to ski bash 2025!

I hate to end on a sad note, but in late May, we learned of the passing of another brother rat, BR Douglas McCoy. Doug completed the Rat Line with our class and played football our rat year. He left VMI sometime in our 3rd Class year to attend Marshall University, where he played football as a defensive tackle and studied economics and managerial economics. He had a successful career in healthcare sales. Doug held a strong faith in God throughout his life and had a tremendous heart and love for family. He is remembered fondly by the BRs who knew him in our early VMI years. Doug passed May 29, 2024, in North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania. Our hearts and prayers are with his family.

That, my brothers and friends, ends it for this edition. In closing, please stay in touch with one another and keep our unique VMI bonds strong. Take time this holiday season to call or visit a few BRs with whom you may have lost touch. It will mean the world to you and to them.

Have a blessed Thanksgiving! Cheers and God’s love to you all.

Jerry

photo with Kimberly and the grandchildren that I posted on our class Facebook page; great photo of a very blessed family!)

We are still tracking our beloved BRs Dan Gallagher and Ed Oast and any needs their brides, Laura and Stewart, may require. They are all true warriors, and I will continue to recognize them in these writings as a tribute to their strength. For Dan, his condition requires limitations on exposures for understood reasons. In my conversations with Dan, however, his focus remains on God, family, and how he can help his BRs. He is a true brother rat, and we pray for his strength and courage. As for Ed, he has had a lot of BR support through visitations over the past few months, and I know that support will continue. Ed remains under the care of the Lake Taylor Transitional Care

I can’t let summer input for our class notes pass without boasting about ski bash. It was another triumphant event this year: The 45th annual Smith Mountain Lake ski bash! At peak, we had just over 100 total in attendance, including alumni, family, and friends. While the Class of ’81 made up the great bulk (literally and figuratively) of the VMI alumni in attendance, we were also honored to have Tom Albro ’79, Barry Coceano ’84, Dan Grillone ’84, Jeff White ’84, and, of course, Derek Hart ’94. From our class, and I hope I don’t miss anyone, we had Tom Albro, Karl Betz, Rob “Cos” Costello, Mark David, John Ditillo, John Ferry, Bruce Gitchell, Jim Hart, Dave Hinchee, Geoff Hinshelwood, Hank Lee, Jerry Manley, Clinker Moss, Pete Tranchik, Bill Stamm, Gator Underwood, and Greg Wolven. Like every ski bash, the meals were outstanding, and the drinks were plentiful. Special call out to Geoff Hinshelwood for his endless supply of blueberries and smoked meats! We also had a live band that played on two nights, thanks to the coordination efforts of Jim Hart and the Ditillos. There was

Will Council

Brother Rats from the Best Class Out of Barracks!

Summer is nearly over, the Olympics are finished, yet we are still sticking to our seats in our hot automobiles. Well, at least I am, and for the record, my next car will not be black! I hope everyone has found a way to enjoy their summer days. I spent the entire month of June working at my Boy Scouts camp as the climbing and challenge course director. A restricted diet and lots of daily exercise climbing poles and towers is a great way to lose weight! Even better, nobody got hurt on my watch. Some of you may wonder if my helmet might have been on too tight. Why is this old, crazy guy climbing 40-foot poles and scaling towers?

Class of 1981: Brother rats gather at the commandant’s house May 14, 2024, to celebrate the retirement of Col. Adrian Bogart, former commandant. With them are Charles Caudill, former VMI chaplain, and his wife, Jan.

Class of 1981: Attending the annual Conexus Golf Classic, held at the Hermitage Country Club in Richmond, Virginia, in June 2024 are (from left) Keith Wells, Bruce Kitchen, Bill Stamm, John Locher, Bruce Gitchell, Mike Denton, and Ron Mislowsky.

Because nobody else would, and I did not want to lose the program for the older scouts. I plan to do it again next year, too, if I can stay healthy enough. By then, I may no longer be on the professional side of scouting but still willing to work with the youth. So that was my summer, in an abbreviated version. What have you all been doing?

Ed Howland has been going through some health trials. The last year-and-a-half have been a crazy time for him. His friends and family knew something was not quite right with Ed but had no clue. A May doctor’s appointment and an MRI discovered a golf ballsized tumor in his front left lobe. The surgeon removed the tumor May 7, and although tests showed it to be benign, he still had to have five gamma knife treatments. (What the heck is a gamma knife, Ed?!) When Ed woke up from surgery, he was back to normal but soon realized he lost all memories from May 2023–May 2024. Camping trips, fishing trips, weddings, catered several parties, and had a second grandchild born, and he remembered none of it. With all this happening, he is going to retire in August 2025 after 20 years as the principal planner at Powhatan County in the community development department. Before that, he worked for Timmons (engineers and surveyors) from 1985–94, and for Koontz-Bryant (engineers and surveyors) from 1994–2005 as the vice president of surveying for the Virginia and North Carolina offices and was also a stockholder. Ed came to work for Powhatan County to be able to spend time with the family, only working 8 hours a day and 1/2 mile from work. Best move he ever made! Ed has been keeping up with his former roommates, David Wagner, Bill Lindquist, and John Murray. He also has talked with Van Noah and a few others in our class. Looking forward to the next reunion at VMI. Apparently, there was a special night at the ballpark in July. By that, I mean the Washington Nationals held a VMI night! Several of our BRs were in attendance: Scott Crumpler, Dan Clymore, Brad Walker, and Eric Odderstol! Last year, Dan and Cindy and Christine and Scott went and had a blast, so they reprised this year. Only this year, scheduling made it a BR night instead

of husbands’ and wives’ night! Awesome catching up with the guys! VMI night is fun, too, with a Nats and VMI co-branded jersey giveaway! And the sound of the VMI fight song wafting through the park over the PA system! Pretty cool! (Why am I just learning about this, and never mind the jersey, where was my ticket?) Both Clymore and Crumpler sent me a note about this.

been able to make a meeting, and that needs to be addressed.

Daryl Deke has been keeping me on my toes with pictures of his travels to be with BRs. Here, I thought Daryl was retired when he moved to the Nashville, Tennessee, area. Nope, he is still working and traveling, but he gets to catch up with his BRs for ball games and golf tournaments. We should all take notes on how he does this. I swear he has me on speed dial text.

Besides losing my ticket, Scott Crumpler is great about checking with me about other recent BR sightings, including the Heltzels (duh, related!), Shifflettes, Kauses, Hickeys, Todd Minnix, Nick Roper, Mitch Heishman, Bill and Cindy Jennings, Joey and Carole Keyes, and Dave Wagner! The last four at the annual VMI Keydet Club Leadership Outing in Lexington! For the record, the first part of this listing all belong to a wine club or association—of which I have not

Neal Rogers checked in on Facebook Messenger. He and Nancy up and moved to Tappahannock last October. For those of you not familiar with Virginia geography, it is a coastal river community on the Rappahannock off the Chesapeake Bay. They sold the big house and all the fun that goes with it and downsized to a nice condo on the river with their dog, Murphy. Retirement is on the horizon. Daughter Morgan, hubby, and Henry live in Mechanicsville so that is close by. Sean and family are in Columbia, Maryland. There are three grandkids altogether now. Collin is with the Marines in Australia.

Dan Clymore doubled down on what Scott Crumpler sent us with a FanCam shot from the VMI night with the Washington Nationals. He acknowledged he went to the baseball game with the others. They had a great time catching up and even watched some of the game! At least Eric was watching it. He sees Ozzie Belcher at least weekly; he lives next door and keeps himself busy with his business. Dan had just come back from a vacation spent in Reedville, Virginia, on the Chesapeake Bay, where they have a place. Great week and great fishing, as the cobia were biting. His future sonin-law from Kansas, who has never fished the ocean water, actually caught a citation cobia—55 inches and a little over 60 pounds (caught and released). Plenty of filets for dinner and the freezer!

Dan will also be attending the VMI Cadet-Alumni Career Networking Forum in late September. It is a great event to connect alumni and cadets regarding career options, choices, etc. He made one hire from that event last year and hopes for more this year. It is held on a Friday and a Saturday and

Class of 1982: Attending a Philadelphia Phillies versus New York Yankees baseball game are (from left) Daryl Deke; Harry Bitzberger; Harry’s son, Harrison; and Harry’s wife, Michelle.

Class of 1982: Scott Crumpler, Brad Walker, Dan Clymore, and Eric Odderstol attend VMI’s Night with the Washington Nationals in July 2024.

is very well attended. Anyone in any field of business and the government sector can benefit from this, as well as what it does for the cadets.

Bill Caulfield has come in from the cold. We have not heard much from Bill other than some slight teasing of more interesting stuff coming after he retires. Well, that and he had two sons graduate from VMI. Now, he tells me he is getting ready to retire after 39-plus years working for a federal agency whose name has three initials and starts with a C and ends with an A. By the time this set of class notes arrives in everyone’s mailbox, it will be in the history books. As I was writing them, I was communicating with Bill as to if I could even use the name of the agency. I told Bill I don’t want guys in trench coats showing up at my door wishing to have a friendly conversation about national security concerns! Anyway, Bill did have some form of official retirement ceremony but with a limited guest list to invite. I know my invite was lost in the mail, but Jim Thrasher joined Bill and his family. (What, no photos allowed?! Picture everyone with a black bar across their faces!) Besides saving democracy in our country, what have the Caulfields been doing? JoAnn continues to teach kindergarten for maybe 1 or 2 more years. He thinks she wants to see how he adjusts first. All five kids were out of college, but the last three are choosing to go on. Four of five kids achieved mechanical engineering degrees, and two are now in grad school for aerospace engineering: Will ’23 (UVA and VPI), and Megan is at UPitt for a Master of Science degree for prosthetics and orthotics. Other daughter Katie, who went to W&M, taught for 8 years and now is a data analyst consultant for USG. Oldest son Josh ’13 did 8 years in the U.S. Air Force, acquired two master’s degrees on the GI bill, and now works as a contractor for U.S. Air Force and Space Force R&D. So, Bill plans to relax and unwind until the new year and then explore his various options. Hopes to visit VMI with either of two sons who attended, Josh ’13 and Will ’23. Bill pointed out the obvious to me that his sons will be able to attend reunion weekends together.

Nick Roper checked in, as he is still working for the Virginia Department of Transportation and was promoted to deputy district engineer for Northern Virginia back in January. Cool deal for Nick is all his kids (now grown up) have relocated closer to home, away from Florida and California, bringing with them the three grandkids. Three is a magic number for grandkids today!

There has been a reoccurring theme in these notes—being grandparents of three and having a place on the river in Virginia. I will throw in one more. Bob and Kathy Louthan, as has been

reported in previous notes, are down on the river and gave an update (not a kid count, though). Their son, Mason, is getting married in September, so they are busy with all that planning. Bob is still pushing ahead, bringing VeteranCrowd Rewards technology to the market.

Thanks to everyone who submitted notes and pictures to me. I greatly appreciate everything that comes through my inboxes, texts, Facebook Messenger, and even phone calls. I want you all to know I can’t publish everything that comes in, as some privacy issues need to be respected. I will double check on everything. That being said, we had a brief moment of panic when I got news of the passing of one of our BRs, only to find out it was a parent of the classmate. FUBAR! So, what is my message to you all? Please stay in touch with your friends and roommates. Please share the good news and experiences; we do want to enjoy them with you. And lastly, if you never hear from me again, go see Bill! Or my wife. They will know where the body is located.

Sincerely, Will Council

1983

Jamie MacDonald

Brother Rats,

Best wishes to all of you and your families. I hope you thoroughly enjoyed your summer. It is clear from the notes shared with me and your posted social media activities that you have been well occupied.

Jennifer and I have enjoyed spending our free time in New Hampshire, where even a rainy day at the lake is a joy. In June, I attended a Potomac River and George C. Marshall Chapterssponsored alumni networking and D-Day remembrance at the Army Navy Country Club. It had a tremendous turnout, with Maj. Gen. Wins ’85 and Rear Adm. Terence E. McKnight ’78 as guest speakers. I had opportunity to connect with fellow alums and their families, and it was very good to see Whit Owens and Matt Waring there and catch up. Whit has been great trying to rally BRs to gather for lunch or dinner. Lee Wimbish ’84 and Steve Ward ’02 have joined us for lunch, as well. As I complete these notes, Whit is trying to get us together for a ’83 Matriculation Day celebration. Who was tracking 45 years since that eventful day? Other activities included attending

Class of 1982: Dan Clymore and his future son-in-law on a fishing trip.

Class of 1982: Dan Clymore with a 55inch citation cobia.

Class of 1982: Richard Woolwine, Andy Douthat, and Daryl Deke attend a Life Ring Foundation charity event in Roanoke, Virginia, in July 2024.

the Potomac River and George C. Marshall Chapters rat send-off. Another great event with over 140 participants, including over 30 new cadets, their loved ones, and alumni. These sendoffs are always worth your time to share experiences, insights, and counsel with new rats and their families. As ever, there is the chance of running into a BR like I did when BR Steve Amato arrived to join the attending alumni ranks.

Billy Akers touched base to share that he and Lisa hosted Scott and Pam Horan for a visit in Cortez, Colorado, for a couple of days and stayed in the Airbnb. Billy reported they went to Telluride for a day and visited Mesa Verde National Park, which is literally in their backyard. Lisa and Billy invite anyone that is out their way to stop into Crooked Sky Ranch and Airbnb. They would love to see you.

Chris Caudill sent an update to let us know that he and roomie Dan Martin met in Chris’ hometown of Tampa to play some golf. Also, and more importantly, Chris said, they celebrated his dad’s 92nd birthday in Lexington. Dan provided supporting commentary on the great time they had playing golf and how Chris and his friend, Calvin “Mace” Mason, a The Citadel grad, teamed up to kick his butt on the course. Later, the golf trio joined Chris’ wife, Vicki, for lunch.

Dan Mason, Paul Karafa, J.J. Costello, and Steve Amato attended the celebration of life for our late Brother Rat Duane Padrick. Dan wrote that “the service was with military honors and of course being from VMI and all of us with military backgrounds knew just how to respond as far as the presentation of the flag and taps, etc. It was a beautiful day and after the military honors. I really can’t say it was a somber occasion ... there was quite a bit of levity as personal anecdotes pertaining to Duane were read aloud. I’m sure ‘Duano’ would have not had it any other way. Both Duane’s daughter, Madison, and his wife, Anne, seemed quite appreciative to have had us there representing the Class of 1983.”

Merlo Pyle was not able to attend Duane’s celebration of life but did visit the cemetery where Duane’s service

Class Notes

was scheduled. Merlo’s mom is buried nearby. In a note to Duane’s daughter, Madison, Merlo shared his memories of her dad and their time at VMI and let her know that her dad would rest in the shade of a nearby tree.

Steve Amato provided additional commentary on the service at Peninsula Memorial Park, Newport News, Virginia. Steve also remarked on Duane’s family’s appreciation of the BRs who were in attendance. Duane received full military honors from the Langley Air Force Base Honor Guard. A fitting tribute to our late BR. Many thanks to Dan, Paul, J.J., and Steve for representing ’83 in this wonderful celebration to Duane, and to Merlo for his sharing fond memories of Duane with Madison.

Dortch Warriner shared that he got to do his No. 1 bucket list item this summer. With a June 6 birthday, he’s always wanted to tour Normandy. Well, Dortch got to do it on the 80th anniversary week, and his son, David Warriner II ’13, joined him. In other news, he still employed by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a dam engineer, but hopefully for only 1-and-a-half more years. Dortch had his right knee replaced and finally recovered from that fun event, and he had first grandchild in June when his daughter, Martha, gave birth to Ellie Powers. Awesome news!

The Hon. Tim Fitzgerald touched base to let us know that after retiring with 30 years in the Marine Corps in 2013, he continues his work as a public servant as an elected official for Spokane County in Spokane, Washington. Tim is serving his third term as the clerk of Spokane County. When not performing his county duties, Tim serves as chairman of the board for Spokane Veterans Forum, chairman of the Deer Park Washington Airport Board of Directors, and as legislative adviser to Washington State Association of County Clerks. Tim and his wife, Tracy, are enjoying their time with their two grandchildren and six children.

In his update, J.J. Costello said that in July, he and Cherie spent a holiday in France (a cruise from Paris to Normandy) with a side trip to Strasbourg.

Steve Hodak sent a short note saying he plans to retire end of this year.

Class of 1983: Billy and Lisa Akers with Scott and Pam Horan in Cortez, Colorado.

Class of 1983: Dan Mason, J.J. Costello, Steve Amato, and Paul Karafa attend Duane Padrick’s celebration of life.

Class of 1983: John Dodge, Jay Lasek, Cam Murray ’12, and Cal Murray during the VMI Football Reunion weekend in August 2024.

He’s declared that he had less than 2.8 million work-seconds left, or 22 Mondays! Steve may shift his time to work for a defense contractor. His wife, Crystal, had a right hip replacement in early June and returned to work full time already. Many answers to prayer there!

Cal Murray provided a quick update to ensure ’83 was heard from before the class update window closed. While he and Debby negotiated travel through Charlotte airport, Cal highlighted the alumni football weekend held in early August in Lexington, which included a golf tournament. On the golf course, John Dodge, Jay Lasek, Cam Murray ’12, and Cal joined forces in a yeoman effort to win the title. Sadly, they came up a bit short, but not because of effort. Cal said, “The

golf gods were not with us that day.” On Saturday, Malachi Mills joined in with our BRs to watch the team practice and then mingled with them during a stellar lunch program. Cal ended with that it was a “great time had by all.”

Brad Norwood surfaced with his own update after “finally” getting a chance to read over the class notes from the spring Alumni Review. Brad and his wife (and Ring Figure date), Robin, live south of Fredericksburg, and he works at Fort Belvoir with Defense Threat Reduction Agency’s Joint Science and Technology Office. Though he’s been there for a little over 4 years now, Brad expects to transition to a new position as the agency’s development senior scientist for the chemical countermeasure office.

Steve and Mary Amato linked up with BR Mark Sykes and his wife, Kim, several times over the past few months. Kim recently retired in June 2024. Mark has several trips planned for both. Mary and I have participated three times in the Aquia deep fitness group session on Saturdays with BR Tim Craul and his wife, Mary. By coincidence, they attended the water fitness classes and found it was much better than the “rat drowning.” Steve reports some email exchanges with BR Drew Smith. Drew and his wife, Kim, and most of their children will be moving from Australia back to Carrollton, Virginia, in August 2024. Drew, Kim, and all their children have lived in Australia for more than 2 years as Drew supported a commercial contract. Drew and Kim attended our 40th Reunion in 2023. Steve is still selling class coins. The price is $10 for each coin, which includes shipping within the USA. If any BR is interested in purchasing a coin(s) they can contact him at amatostevemary@gmail.com.

Tony “Snake” Arnold checked in with an update to share: “All good down here in Virginia Beach.” Snake also shared that he remains in contact with BR Bubba Hazelgrove

We have a few writers and authors among our class. In addition to BRs Scott Belliveau and Lynn Seldon, we have Dave Powell and Joe Leonard Dave, an acclaimed Civil War historian, wrote that his newest book, “The Atlanta Campaign: Volume 1: Dalton to Cassville, May 1–19, 1864,” was just released in July 2024. This is the first volume of a proposed five-volume series. That’s incredible, Dave! Joe was recently published in Domestic Preparedness, a journal presenting articles related to emergency management and law enforcement and other related topics. Joe’s article “What Level of Ugly are Communities Prepared For?” was highlighted in a July 31 release. After retiring from a tremendously successful career in the U.S. Coast Guard, Joe is now a highly regarded

state and local-level emergency manager. In the article’s introduction, Joe discusses the need for shared interagency planning efforts that foster enhanced interoperability and a common operational picture during periods of heightened domestic tension.

Again, my sincere best wishes to you and your loved ones. I look forward to a chance contact with any of you at a home game this fall.

Jamie

Sam Browne

Well, Brother Rats,

This rookie class agent almost missed the deadline, but in the true Bill-the-bugler-holding-thatlast-note fashion, I got this in! First, many thanks to Bill Janis for setting the bar very high to what I’m about to embark on and his guidance as I get this show on the road. Thanks to countless BRs who offered congratulations on my taking the reins of the class agent thing. My aim is to meet the expectation of this august body!

We had some major news on the heels of our 40th Reunion in April. Thanks, Curt Hinton and Greg Cavallaro, for flagging the newest slate of VMI Board of Visitors members. In June, the governor of Virginia, the Hon. Glenn Youngkin, appointed our very own BR Bill Janis to the VMI Board of Visitors. Congrats, Bill! If you did not get an email from me regarding Bill’s appointment, that is evidence that the Alumni Association does not have valid email for you.

On June 26, I received a text from Mike Locher (you were the first to submit for the class notes) noting a summer filled with activities for his family. His youngest son, Hunter, graduated from the Naval Academy in June and was commissioned into the Marine Corps as a second lieutenant. He will report to Basic School in Quantico in August. Bob Chapman and Tom Graham and his wife joined the Lochers for the ceremonies in Annapolis, Maryland. Mike noted the great support from BRs for such an important occasion. Immediately after graduation, Mike was off to Dallas for his oldest son’s wedding. After that, Mike will be off to Louisa County in October for their daughter’s wedding. Very busy year for Mike and Jan.

On May 12, I exchanged texts with Michael Grafton Mike is doing well and was hoping to

Class of 1983: Dan Martin, Chris Caudill, and Mace Mason, a graduate of The Citadel, in Tampa, Florida.

Class of 1983: Dortch Warriner and his son, David Warriner II ’13, at Pointe du Hoc in Normandy, France, in June 2024.

make the 40th, but the stars did not align.

I received a message from Barry Coceano noting that it was the first time the room 128 dykes (’81/’84) have been together in 43 years. They convened during July 4th festivities at the Smith Mountain Lake ski bash at Jim Hart’s place.

On July 19, I joined Mike Kay and his wife, Risa, for the VMI Night at the Nationals baseball game in Washington, D.C. The evening featured a live concert after the game (Nats won). Our section was featured in the seventh inning stretch, and we had a chance to yuk it up with the Nats mascot. Our class was well represented at the game. In attendance were the great Lee Wimbish, Bill Seaver, Jim Dillon, and Tom Anthony

On July 19, Tom Carboni shared a wonderful note and picture on the occasion of his daughter’s wedding. She was married June 29. BRs in attendance were Phil Schied, Dan Gettings, and Tom Anthony.

On Aug. 4, Mark Sossi and Sara Longoria were married in a beautiful ceremony in Cozumel, Mexico. Brother rats in attendance to help the wonderful couple celebrate were Moe Khandan-Barani, William Piper, and T.J. Palmer

On Aug. 10, I attended the rat sendoff at Union Jack’s in Columbia, Maryland. We had a small but energetic crowd to send off two additions to the Rat Mass of ’25+3. Godspeed, rats! Seven alumni were present.

I want to end these notes just how they began—with the dynamic duo of Bill Janis and Greg Cavallaro. Bill emailed Aug. 13 to flag Greg’s imminent retirement from the Institute. Bill’s reaction is as follows: “God put one man on earth whose highest purpose and greatest gift was to be the most successful and outspoken promoter of our beloved Virginia Military Institute—Greg Cavallaro! Nobody did it better! Well done, good and faithful servant!”

Thank you, Greg, your extraordinary service and commitment to the Institute. You embodied the spirit of VMI, and it was easy to acquiesce to your entreaties to contribute to our wonderful alma mater. By chance, do you still own that white convertible with the red leather interior with the VMI CAV tags?

Goodnight, Steve Fredricks and Bobby Jones, wherever you are!

1985

Bill Wieners

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 1985.

1986

Clint Hubbard

Greetings to all BRs, Co-Matriculants, Co-Urinal Users, and Any Other Interested Parties,

These notes are formulated for the entertainment of the VMI Class of 1986 and our multitude of admirers and friends. These notes are being written in August 2024. All are welcome, but be advised in advance that in this column, we may espouse or embody drinking whiskey, smoking cigars, and using coarse language.

First off is a bit of news from the RVA, which may be dated news but accurate, nonetheless. Just like my days as a cadet, I took some poor notes, so the source may be circumspect. Some entity in the Richmond area made a list of most desirable places to work, and Trolley Hospitality/Groovin’ Gourmets, headed in part by our own Mikey Calkins, was first on the list! They started as a coffee vending service some years ago and have morphed into a full-scale vending, refreshment, and catering business. Of note, a few years ago, they catered Gov. Youngkin’s inaugural ball. Well done, BR Calkins!

We are all reaching the stage of life where many of our parents may have passed on, and for those still fortunate to have our parents with us, they are aging and entering their twilight years. From the parents of BRs whom I have been fortunate to know or have known, we had some wonderful parents.

Earlier this year, W.R. Moore ’50A took his leave of us just 4 days after his

Class of 1984: Attending Mark Sossi’s wedding in Cozumel, Mexico, in August 2024 are (from left) Moe Khandan-Barani, T.J. Palmer, Mark, and Bill Piper.

Class of 1984: Tom Graham, Mike Locher, and Bob Chapman with Mike’s son, Hunter Locher, at Hunter’s graduation from the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland, in June 2024.

Class of 1984: Attending a baseball game at Nationals Park in July 2024 are (from left) Mark Krajewski, Bill Seaver, Mike Kay, Sam Browne, and Lee Wimbish.

95th birthday. Of course, Mr. Moore was the father of our BR David Moore, but a father figure to all of his boys in the Class of 1986. Bill was a fixture at VMI during our cadetship and in the years since that time. I can vividly remember him joining us as rats down on the track to do push-ups when the Keydets scored on the gridiron. That is even more remarkable to me now, as in 1982, Bill would have been about 52 years old cranking out push-ups with a bunch of rats. Bill Moore loved VMI and was the epitome of a VMI man—loyal and dedicated to his family, his community, and the Institute. Our loss is heaven’s gain, and we’re all better men for having known Bill for so many years, but especially in our formative years. May God bless his memory.

Speaking of BR Dave Moore, he (and Jennifer) ventured down from Lynchburg to Richmond earlier this summer for the summer annual Panchfest, the party event of the summer hosted by Steve Pancham and his better half, Monica. Panch-fest is always a good time with plenty of food and drink. We all bellied up to the bar and buffet— as we age and our girths expand, it might also be called paunch-fest. Attendees this year included Scott Wilson; our host, Steve Pancham; Gordon Poindexter; Jeff Washington ’80; David Moore; Tim Spivey; Brent Wilson ’88; and your class agent, who got there late and missed the picture.

BR Moore gave a great update on his activities. He sold off many of his convenience stores/ gas stations but kept the original on Route 460 east of Lynchburg (and maybe one other one). Of course, the mainstay of the empire was always the hotdogs and hamburgers, etc. So, Dave is actually franchising his hotdog operation around to some of his former competitors and expanding the Moore’s Country Store hotdogs and chili. So far, he has some franchisees in Altavista, a couple in Bedford County, at least one in Cumberland County, and I think also one in Amherst. It helps

if you need a Moore’s hot dog fix to be able to get one multiple places.

In addition to his hotdog empire, BR Moore is quite an accomplished pilot and has some major certifications to allow him to pilot a pretty sophisticated plane for a local Lynchburg business magnate who is also a personal friend. Sounds like the best of both worlds to me; the guy gets a pilot he knows well, and Dave gets to keep his skills sharp flying a nice airplane.

From Charlotte, North Carolina, Suzi Mays sent a note to let us know that big ol’ R.O. Mays has hung up his spurs from Piedmont Natural Gas and can be found on the golf course about 3-4 days per week. That notice calls into question several things: (1) How will the Piedmont people be able to tell that Ronnie retired? (2) Golf 3-4 days per week doesn’t sound like much of a change in his routine. (3) When your wife writes in to your BRs, you gotta expect to take a couple of shots. Just kidding, of course. Thanks for the update, Suzi. Best of luck in keeping our boy straight now that he’ll be underfoot more often. Suzi and Ronnie welcomed their first grandchild last November, and Suzi says he may end up at the “Mother I” in the Class of ’42. Yes, you read that number correctly. In addition to the golf and the grandson, BR and Mrs. Mays have been hitting the high seas on several cruises, which they greatly enjoy. Ol’ Ronnie Mays always was a cruiser! Thanks again for the update, Suzi.

Steve Gray checked in one afternoon with an update on BR34. BR34 is of course, BR Glen Ralston, who (a couple of years ago) checked in after 34 years with a 34-word email, thus immortalizing himself as BR34. Birddog Gray managed to track down BR34 in Detroit, where the latter has recently relocated. Glen moved to the Motor City from San Antonio, so he’s in for a climate shock when winter hits. Maybe he’ll be holed up and have time to send us another note, or maybe

he’ll come visit his relatives in Virginia and his BRs in Richmond. Thanks for the update, BR Gray, and we hope to see either one of you or both you (Gray and Ralston) on an upcoming Tuesday night in the RVA. Or any other BR who comes to town!

If you read the 2024-Issue 3 edition of Alumni Review, you might have noted that we mentioned a bar in the British Virgin Islands with a VMI flag that has been signed by many VMI alumni. Among ’86ers, Carl Gitchell and Jim Agostini have signed that flag. The last edition mentioned the same flag with a picture of John Geis ’83 (who also signed it) posing in front of the flag. He also noted the location, a beach bar on the island of Anegada in the British Virgin Islands. What is relevant to this story is that after spring break this past spring, the flag also includes the name of BR Cyrus Kump. Cy was down in the BVI with his family, saw the flag, and signed it along with BRs Gitchell and Agostini. Something tells me Gordon White might be the next BR to sign that flag. It is a pretty cool story no matter how you slice it. Speaking of cool stories in a bar, earlier this summer, I was at the American Fish Company in Southport, North Carolina, listening to a band named The Conspiracy. One of my first cousins is the keyboard player. Just by chance, a lady noticed my ring and asked me if it was a VMI ring. I responded in the affirmative, and she said, “My husband went to VMI.” Said husband was getting a drink at the bar but came over directly and we had nice short visit. It was a bit loud from the band, so I didn’t catch his last name, but his first name was Brian from the Class of ’95, I think. Like I said, the band was loud, but yet the Institute was still heard from that day. As Dave Grimm might say, “I’m just sayin’...”

Class of 1986: Glen Ralston.

Class of 1986: Pictured are (from left) Scott Wilson, Steve Pancham, Gordon Poindexter, Jeff Washington ’80, David Moore, Tim Spivey, and Brent Wilson ’88.

According to what I saw recently on Facebook, Tom Russell just added another horse to his stable. Only this time, his new stallion was in the form of a vintage 1951 M38 Jeep. It was allegedly a U.S. Coast Guard relic, but BR Russell plans to refurbish it as a U.S. Marine Corps vehicle. To quote SSGT Ramirez from when we were rats, that is worthy of a loud and thunderous Marine Corps oo-rah.

Well, boys, that’s a wrap for this quarter. Keep in touch with one another; pick up the phone and check in with a BR you haven’t talked to in a while. If you make it to a football game this fall, keep an eye out for your BRs, especially your class agent who can help you tailgate. Best wishes to you and your families for the holidays and new year. And if you see Jim Dillon, Tom Kardos, or Paul Simroth, tell them their BRs said hello.

flight if I dropped 30 pounds, so I got that in my back pocket.

I was able to get Todd Williamson out on the Devil’s Knob course at the top of Wintergreen. Todd and his wife, Amanda, also have a place on the top of the mountain and enjoy the cool summer air.

BR Terry Sutherland has had a lot of life changes. He and Joy have sold multiple properties to move into their retirement home in Virginia Beach. Terry recently retired for the second time (Navy and small business administration). To say I am jealous of everyone riding out the sunset would be an understatement.

BillMcCarthy

Brother Rats,

Thanks for all who sent updates!

Paul Munson wrote in to let me know he is still chasing bear and deer off the Navy Dare Bombing Range. He is in charge of supply chain and hazmat operations at the facility. Paul said his two daughters are celebrating their first wedding anniversaries.

Another Mike Evans update. I called him on his birthday while he was enjoying a walk and got a bit more detail. While working on the civilian side for the Army, he stuck his paw in the air and “volunteered” for a billet to Germany for 2 years. To quote Mike, it was “a lot harder than advertised.” He is now back in the USA, living in Springfield, and working at or near Fort Belvoir. He wants to keep the D.C. chapter of ’87 engaged and slightly inebriated. I rallied the crowd over the Christmas holidays, so I will lay the challenge down again. I would like to make it a semiannual or quarterly outing around D.C./Baltimore.

Laurie and I have spent most of the summer weekends up at Wintergreen. The weather is spectacular for us full-figured dudes. Reynolds Renshaw has a place nearby and is very active in the Shenandoah Valley Soaring Club. They fly/glide out of Rockfish Valley at the base of Wintergreen. Reynolds (aka Rennie ... sorry) and I grabbed a few sodas after his flying session. He offered a

Chaplain Bob Phillips and Tracy just finished their 1-year RV tour of the U.S. Bob just recently accepted a field staff representative position at USMA West Point to minister to Officers Christian Fellowship. They are blessed to have Bob involved. Many may forget that Bob was heavily involved with the VMI rugby team when he was chaplain. I hope he carries that on, even though he was a lacrosse bro like me, Todd Williamson, H Byrne, Bob Eckhoff, and others.

I spoke with Howell Taylor, who was up in Wintergreen celebrating his birthday with family. He lives in Richmond, and his daughter came up from Roanoke. He is learning it is 15 degrees cooler at 3,500 feet, which is why I spend most summer weekends up there. Like most of us, we are planning for what the next 30 years will bring. Finally caught up with Trent Bridges, my former EE study buddy and gridiron legend. He lives in Penfield, New York, outside of Rochester. Trent has worked in telecom his whole career and now runs a sales team for the local cable provider. His son is about to start college this fall, and he promised to link up with more BRs in the coming years as time allows.

Had a long chat with Reid Garst. Reid is teaching personal finance and Advanced Placement economics at Salem High School. He sold his electronics distribution company a few years back and has been working at the school and enjoying the time teaching kids. I did not realize this is a mandatory subject in high school, which is a great idea.

That was the second time I heard Reid’s name this quarter. Bruce Bones and I were talking about his daughter moving to Salem. He reached out to Reid to get some BR love with the building of an outdoor deck on his daughter’s new house. Reid was quick to lend a hand in true ’87 spirit. The only question I have is how did two CEOs figure out how to get anything done! Bruce owns a manufacturing company outside of Richmond that makes machines for specific use.

Class of 1987: Dave Furness and Rob Goodwin on a fishing expedition in Costa Rica with their sons, Zachary and Bently.

Class of 1987: Doug Flynn, Mark Lund, and Dean Barr near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

Class of 1987: Mark Lund and Rev. John Boughton.

The response the last quarter publication has been phenomenal. After Naglepaloosa, the annual retreat to New Smyrna Beach, I had a lot to write about for the Alumni Review. Believe or not, they made me cut it down. Jay Nagle, John McLean, Dean Kratzenberg, and others are starting to get groups together for different gatherings. There are a few other trips in the works this coming year, so keep an eye out for the email. Think fishing, skiing, football games, etc. Rob Goodwin and Dave Furness went to Costa Rica on a fishing trip with their boys. Clif Coger was also with his family during that week and a rendezvous was in the plans, but the roads resembled the Chessie Trail of the ’80s, and Clif was 3 hours away.

Ed Ledford is writing speeches for the VA Administration, coming full circle, as his father also had a career in the VA. Ed’s kids just graduated high school, and he is enjoying life in Annapolis. Still no Bill Callahan sighting in Annapolis, but he did attend a local alumni event.

I was texting John Pilloni pictures of the base in Monterey where he spent time learning the Russian language back in the day. I am sure some other BRs also spent time there. If anyone knows why there are so many British pubs in Monterey, I would love to know.

As always, it is a pleasure to serve as your class agent.

Scott Jewell is hosting his late summer pool party for the class and the VMI Club of the Triad. I will have an update the next edition. Scott is very active in the chapter and has mentored many cadets over the years.

Doug Flynn gets huge kudos for reaching out to me a week in advance to let me know he would be in Richmond for a few days. I was able to get a few emails around, and we had a great 2 hours of laughs and a lot of coffee. Clark Barnes, Tim Chester, and I made the bash. Doug has been in computer programming forever while running 50 milers. Tim started teaching history at Benedictine, his alma mater. Clark manages produce distribution for the Wegmans grocery chain in the Richmond area. Doug was grabbing lunch with Joe Massie while in town, as well.

We had an Alpha Company team event over the period. Matt Howard, Sean Miller, and Sean Raborn ’89 completed a psychotic Triple Bypass cycling race across three of the highest peaks in Colorado. The Triple Bypass stretches 118 miles, with 10,800 feet of elevation gain over three mountain passes: Juniper, Loveland, and Vail. Matt also raised $35,000 for two foundations that he represents. Matt did a great job blogging his training to build up the strength to complete the mission. He did have a serious wreck a few weeks out, but he persevered as Digger does.

I called Sean Miller to get the low down, as we had not connected since the last time I was class agent. He is still in the pharmaceutical industry in the Colorado Springs area.

Fellow Alpha stud Dave Cochran lives in Pagosa Springs, and if Facebook is correct, he is traveling the world. Other Colorado residents include Ricky Zgol, Warren Weiss, Dean Kratzenberg, and possibly Scott Jones

Bill Wanovich gave me a big laugh when we discussed his prolific golf game on Hilton Head Island. He is in full retirement mode and loving life. As with most HHI residents, they are waiting for the summer to end and the crowds to die down. Jason Shepard was down this summer for his usual jaunt.

John Phillips is continuing his serial entrepreneurship by purchasing a business brokerage business in Atlanta. We had a mutual connection through my old friends in Atlanta, and I hope they get to connect.

Although the picture ran in the last edition, my family and I were out in San Francisco this summer doing a little wine touring and checking out Napa, San Francisco, and Monterey. I called Todd Arris while we were downtown, and we hooked up for a coffee. Todd went to business school at Stanford and never came back. He and I have kept in close contact through the years through a shared love of swimming. Todd is a master swimmer, and my girls swam against Todd’s sister’s kids. His youngest niece swam at the Olympic trials this year in Indianapolis, and Todd made the trip.

Best, Dog

1988

John Keppeler

Greetings, Brother Rats, I hope these notes find you and your family doing well! I am typing these notes in August for publication around November if memory serves me well. It’s been a pretty hot summer by all accounts, and I, for one, am ready for fall, if for no other reason than it’s hunting season. Unfortunately, I didn’t receive a lot of input from the class for these notes. I would really appreciate

Class of 1987: Pictured are (from left) Cadet Augie Arnaiz ’27, Damian Arnaiz ’15, Jay Arnaiz, and Manny Bloch ’18 (Jay’s nephew).

Class of 1987: Sean Raborn ’89, Sean Miller, and Matt Howard complete the Triple Bypass Ride across Loveland Pass in Colorado in July 2024.

Class of 1988: Having breakfast at McLean’s Restaurant in Richmond, Virginia, June 14, 2024, are (from left) Ted Wagner, Mack Carr, Charlie Richardson, Andy McAllister, and Chris Long. Not pictured is Charles Nelson.

any help I could get on this; as most of you know, writing is not one of my strong suits, and that goes doubly so for creative writing. I totally get the deal; you don’t want to write in and brag or talk about yourself. So, don’t think of it that way. Think of it as your BR out. Besides, your BRs want to know what’s going on with you ... especially if you aren’t on Facebook, etc. OK, enough with the lecture; I will do my best to string these notes out.

First, I must publicly apologize to Brother Rat Scott “Ogre” Stachelek. He sent me a picture of him and James “Lew” Sigmon at the University of Alabama football stadium back in April. However, I forgot to add it, and I had already filled my quota of pictures for that edition. Anyway, it seems Ogre and Lew made a mini-DAK road trip down to Tuscaloosa, where Ogre’s daughter, Maddie, is a junior, to show Alabama how to party “old school!” Evidently, Ogre and Lew have slowed down because they made it back OK, and I haven’t heard anything on the national news about their visit.

Back in June, we had one of our Northern Virginia lunches at a local brewery down in Fredericksburg, Virginia. In attendance were Mike Beyer, Doug Jacobsen, James “Lew” Sigmon, Sam Tate, Jim Florio, and me. It was great seeing everyone; of course, I see Lew pretty regularly, and Sam and Mike attend most of the lunches, but I haven’t seen Jim Florio in a while and can’t remember the last time I saw Doug Jacobsen. Jim is teaching at St. John Paul the Great Catholic High School in Dumfries, Virginia, so it has been hard for him to make the lunches. Doug and his wife recently returned from South Korea and are enjoying retired life.

I received a picture from Charles Nelson. He has been working hard to establish the Richmond class breakfast, held the second Friday of the month at McClean’s Restaurant, 3205 W. Broad St., at 7 a.m. In attendance were Ted Wagner, Matt Carr, Charlie Richardson, Andy McAllister, Chris Long, and Charles Nelson.

Thanks to Bill Reagan, I found out about the VMI Club of Richmond clay shoot in July. I passed the info on via our NOVA lunch distro list, but Bill and I were the only ones from our class who could make it. I dragged my son, John “Bubba” Kepppeler ’18, along. It was a lot of fun; how could you not have

fun shootin’ stuff and watching it blow up? The Club of Richmond did a great job hosting. Not only did they set up the whole sporting clay shoot, but they also provided breakfast and a BBQ lunch and raffled some pretty cool stuff off. If you live in or near the Richmond area, I highly recommend you get in contact with the chapter. It’s just a good time meeting and networking with VMI alumni!

I received an email and picture from our BR Eric Lassalle. He and his wife, Meg, were on vacation out in Encinitas, California, and ran into Bobby Gardner and his wife, Sheri. Eric said, “We are all doing well and caught up for dinner while in Encinitas, California. Bobby is busy with the laundromat and pub repairs. Sheri is running the family’s pubs, and Bobby and Sheri are keeping up with children and grandchildren and golfing. I am still with Smithfield covering EH&S east of the Mississippi, and Meg is still teaching 2nd grade. Our youngest will be a 1st at VMI this fall, and we will be around Lex. Look us up, for we will be tailgating most home football games.” That’s about it for this quarter. Again, I hope this finds you and your families healthy and well! I welcome any updates and pictures from you in the form of phone calls, texts, emails, or best of all, in person. I can be reached at 540-4299041 or john.keppeler@gmail.com.

RVM and Semper Fi!

Rock

Class of 1988: Gathering in Encinitas, California, July 5, 2024, are Bobby Gardner, Sheri Gardner, Meg Lassalle, and Eric Lassalle.

Class of 1988: At Old Forge Sporting Clays in Providence Forge, Virginia, in July 2024 are (from left) John “Rock” Keppeler, Bill Reagan, and John E. Keppeler ’18.

Class of 1988: Pictured having lunch at 6 Bears & A Goat Brewing Company in Fredericksburg, Virginia, are (from left) Mike Beyer, Doug Jacobsen, Lew Sigmon, Sam Tate, Jim Florio, and John “Rock” Keppeler.

Class of 1988: Lew Sigmon (left) and Scott Stachelek at the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

David A. Martin

Welcome to the summer/August edition of an abbreviated installment of the ’89 class notes! We are devoting all our energies to ensuring a great reunion, so this edition of the notes is brief (plus, we have received very few submissions from you this quarter; yes, that is a hint).

Steve Breheny needs a new passport! “Halfway around the globe on my third revolution since May 2021. This time I left NYC May 5 on a transatlantic cruise to Southampton, U.K. My dad came to the U.S. on the Queen Mary from Ireland, and I made the reverse route on the Queen Mary II. Currently, I am in Cyprus having visited 104/193 (UN) countries. My flight from Christchurch, New Zealand, leaves Aug. 4, so this revolution will have been done in 89 days! And yes, I will be at reunion!”

Sean Raborn looks like he could go out and do an Ironman tomorrow. Many of you recall with a smile Matt Howard ’87 yelling at all Alpha Company rats to “dress it right!” Matt is really struggling with some health issues (stage 4) and is beating the doctors’ expectations of how long he has left. Sean writes: “I’m very happy to report that Matt Howard finished the Triple Bypass high altitude mountain bike race Saturday! It was a long day but a great day of camaraderie, shared experiences of joy, suffering, and hard work, but he delivered and slew the dragon. The ‘dragon’ was the demon called Loveland Pass from Loveland Ski Area to the top of the pass. At just over 4 miles, it’s not that far, but it’s high, and the air is thin up at 12,000 feet. We had a great day and excellent weather. Matt Howard, Sean Miller (roommates for 3 years at VMI), Carri Miller, and myself rode together.”

Sean and Natalie Raborn continued to excel a week later, offering me a shower after a week at 12,500 feet when Doc Martin backpacked a 30-miler in the Arapaho National Forest. Turns out, Natalie is a high-altitude physical fitness expert. Not afraid to say the class agent made it to their house on fumes. They

had great advice for high altitude endeavors ipso facto. Shoulda went there first! Sean celebrated the achievement by mandating that the price for a shower was a 3-mile uphill hike, ostensibly to “walk the dogs.”

Al Versoza set the example as per SOP: Writing in to provide an update for all to emulate, Al, Rob Davis, and Chuck Ellis ’90 attended the NOVA VMI networking event at the Army Navy Club.

Speaking of helping, fresh from getting the Orlando airport (MCO) squared away, BR “DR” Davin Ruohomaki helped sponsor Quinn Donovan’s reunion wine while making a sizeable donation to the 89-class-fun account for reunion. Be sure to buy BR DR a refreshing beverage or hot dog at the football game because he sure as #@$% bought you one, or two, or three! As for winemaking, anyone who wants to get together and do vinting or explore the winemaking area of California, contact Quinn at qdonovan89@gmail.com. Quinn is thinking a few couples or BRs could get together under the Donovan cellars umbrella.

As OIC, Davin just completed the new Terminal C at MCO, the Brightline Train station at MCO, and other renovations. Next time you do Disney, think of your BR as you ride the train! Davin moved back into the consulting world with WSP USA and helps lead the Aviation National Business practice as a senior vice president; he helps other owners with large capital programs, helps train staff, and enjoys working from the house and traveling! He and his wife sold K9 Kampus and now are commercial landlords, and they are college hunting for their daughter! Davin recently said that what ’89 has accomplished with their successful careers is impressive! “VMI has set us all up for great success.” Great update; thanks, BR DR. Steve Nezas is purportedly bringing his horn to the reunion; he is practicing nightly, driving the neighbors crazy! Late entry as we are putting this edition of the notes to bed. Mitch Fridley writes, “Sorry this is late, just saw your reunion update and plea for class notes, and we just got back from Wyoming a couple days ago. Harrison Bresee and I spent a week fly fishing in and around Pinedale, Wyoming, with a couple of other buddies. It’s about 90 minutes southeast of Jackson. Beautiful

Class of 1989: Sean Raborn, Matt Howard ’87, Jackie Syverson, and Sean Miller ’87 in Colorado.

Class of 1989: Attending a VMI networking event at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia, are (from left) Chuck Ellis ’90, Al Versoza, and Rob Davis.

Class of 1989: Matt Howard ’87, Sean Miller ’87, and Sean Raborn on a bike ride near Loveland Pass, Colorado, in July 2024.

country. We had a couple days of few fish but big fish (20-plus inches), and a couple of days on smaller streams where we caught about 20 nice cutthroat trout each. And, of course, we drank bourbon and ate good steaks every night.”

See you all in early September! ONE-989!

Greetings, Brother Rats!

Hope everyone has enjoyed the summer, which, here in Lex Vegas, is rapidly coming to an end. The football team is back, cadre and the other fall sports teams are in process of returning, and we are in the last push of activity and maintenance before matriculation when things really get rocking. This year, we are looking at bringing in over 500 matriculants to start their VMI journey.

To begin with, I’d like to make sure we all congratulate BR Col. Lee Havird on his selection as the new commandant of cadets. He follows such luminaries as Cols. Bill Dabney ’61 and Dave Harbach ’61, among others. He assumed duty Aug. 5 and is drinking from a fire hose as I type these notes. Along the same lines, BR Matt Hemenez was in town in July, as he took over the reins as president of the VMI Alumni Association (a position formerly held by BR Sam Stocks) for a 2-year term. With those two in those positions, BR Pat

O’Leary as our lead council, and Damon Williams on the VMI BOV, we can rest assured the Institute is in great hands.

Over the summer, I’ve had a chance to talk to a number of folks, starting with Barry Johnson, who helped me get the ring carved by the late Ron Buxton to the museum; Andy Kvasnicka, who sent a great picture of him and Kevin Hanford; plus the news that our late BR Tom Cotman’s brother was promoted to brigadier general in the Army.

Bob Butler was in town around the Fourth of July weekend and was able to hang out with John Burleson, and Judge John Franklin made the trip up to the area with Steve Druiett ’89 from Fredericksburg for the weekend in August. Also in town this summer for the Keydet Club Leadership Outing were BRs Pablo Martinez and Charles Plageman. Notably absent from the leadership outing was Charles’ brother-inlaw, Buddy Garbett, who was assumed to be

down at his place on the Rappahannock that weekend. Also missing was Mike Kemp, but I assume he was busy planning his annual rat send-off event in Roanoke.

I also had contact with Carlos Fernandes, who is still in Portugal for work, and Glenn Thompson, who was passing by Lexington on his way back to Richmond where he works for W.M. Jordan construction firm.

Dave Kaulfers also sent me a note that he had his first day back with VDOT after a decade (or more) long hiatus while he was on active duty with the Army. Dave is now back in Virginia for the first time in years.

Kenny Robinson checked in during August to let me know he has a nephew matriculating this year. Tom Slater also has a nephew entering the Rat Line who will play baseball (surprise, surprise) for the Keydets. I do not have any other information on any other ’90 legacies coming in this year, but I hope to find at least a few as we get to Matriculation Day.

About the same time, I heard from Kenny, Garrett Peck, prolific author and tour guide, reported he is under contract for his new book, “The Bright Edges of the World: Willa Cather and Her Archbishop.” It’s currently undergoing peer review, and he hopes to have the book out in 2025. Garrett is also staying busy out in New Mexico, leading guided tours and teaching various classes and seminars.

While we are in New Mexico, I’d be remiss if I missed pointing out BR Dr. Finnie Coleman recently celebrated 30 years at University of New Mexico, where he is a professor.

I also heard from Paul Tallat-Kelpsa,

Class of 1989: Mitch Fridley and Harrison Bresee fly fishing near Pinedale, Wyoming.

Daren Payne

Class of 1990: Dave Petka, Todd Northrop, Bill Ator, Mike Inteso, Jim Hubbard, A.J. Johnson, Mike Kemp, and Beau Quattrone attend the VMI Football Reunion in August 2024.

Class of 1990: Rick Pearman ’71, Erroll Martin, Tony Baker, Chuck Ellis, Travis Mabrey, Tim West ’88, Donnie Roberts, Sam Butler ’92, and Andrew Kvasnicka at their annual gathering.

as he was in town to drop off his daughter at W&L for her first year of college.

About the same time, Mike Mullori let me know he was also sending kids back to UVA and was now officially an empty nester.

Right before the deadline for these notes, VMI hosted the ever-popular and continually growing football alumni weekend. Representing ’90 at this event were Bill Ator from Colorado; Jim Hubbard, who looked like he actually could have run here from Tennessee; Mike Inteso, who came down from Jersey; Todd Northrop up from Southwest Georgia; Dave Petka of Madison, Alabama; Beau Quattrone from Pennsylvania and looking like he could still bench 400; Arturo Johnson from Prince George; and Mike Kemp made the grueling trip from Roanoke. I’ve seen and heard nothing but great things about all these team alumni reunions, so if you played a sport, I’d really encourage you to come back as you are able for the various reunions.

From the internet, I find that Tony Zang of Atlanta is national chairman for the Light the Night Executive Challenge for this year.

I also saw a nice motivational video posted by the always photogenic Dave West out of Singapore, where he works for CISCO.

Rob Greenway continues his work across all media for the Heritage Foundation and is a regular contributor to all the Fox News stations and a number of internet sites about all things Middle East.

On the MIA BR list, there are a few people who’ve been out of touch for quite a while I’d like to hear from: Paul Valenzuela, Rob Schnock, John Brethour, David Wright, Scott Ludmer, Moe Green, Jack Ellis, Ryan Foster, Elson Hin, Joe Kennebeck, and Rick Kimmel. Would also love to find Echo Company BRs Paul Kucik and Brian Wilkerson, who wound up at West Point but whom I have not heard from in years. If you are out there in parts unknown or you know any of these BRs, let’s see if we can get them back in the fold!

At the Payne household, we are empty nesters with one kid in Charlotte and the other in the DFW area of Texas. Summers, we stay busy splitting time between the boat on the Potomac around Colonial Beach and my day job at the “I.” Getting ready for the tailgating season and another year on the football sideline officials crews (aka the “chain gang”), so hope to see a lot of you around post this fall for one of our six home games. Until next time take care and GBR!

Daren Payne

1991

Chuck Story

Chris Edmonston

OK, Gents,

So, the notes this time are a bit of social media stalking!

Looked up Buck Sessoms; he’s in Wallace, North Carolina, doing medivac helicopter flights to keep his flying skills sharp—and playing golf and riding his motorcycle. Still has his place on the Maury, too!

Looks like John Childs is busy collecting every meme on the internet and reposting them. It appears to be hurting his vision, as he’s at the shooting range with the target 5 feet from him.

Chris Wyatt is also a meme god—when he’s not fishing, shooting, drinking beer, or driving a school bus. He did take some time to go to the beach with Wade Witham and Eric Burks It’s also the season to be taking kids back to school—Tom and Shannon Heffern took their daughter back to Ole Miss. Not quite Tennessee quality, but still SEC. Tom is also going to the gym with Shannon, trying to get back into fighting shape. (Aren’t we all.) Tom is also very active with his church.

I saw that Bill McClary also recently took his daughter Ellie to college, Washington State. Bill is also into riding his cycle, and now RVing, too.

Ray Dotterweich is big into the RV life—just got his camper set up with electric and cable TV at home in case anyone wants to come visit and “try out” the lifestyle. I see him and Dan Robinson posting their glamping adventures from time to time in the Chesapeake Rovers Camping Club. Hunting season is coming soon—good thing, as my freezer is getting a little empty. Sad thing is I could get all the geese, duck, and deer I want in my front yard, but my wife and neighbors would have a fit. I see Roger Jarrell is still working on his health and is prepping to do an elk hunt later this fall. I went to Idaho to hunt elk years ago— couldn’t believe how tough the terrain was. Good luck, Roger! Who else has some hunting trips planned? Put your pics in the ’91 Facebook page. It’s also interesting to see the second careers many of us are having. Been following Bill Booth,

who is now a commercial pilot, on his ventures around the world. Greece, Poland, England, and Guam, to name a few places. Bill also enjoyed the graduation of his daughter and his son’s wedding. Sadly, he also lost his brother, Steve, this year.

Brian Snider, also a commercial pilot, can often be seen traveling around the world and dropping a line with his family to catch some slabs.

Evan Brown’s second career still has him playing with helicopters down in Alabama with Ace Aeronautics. Evan and his family are also enjoying lake life in their off time. What could be better?

As for me, I switched jobs at the end of last year—leaving a company after 29 years! I work from home now—not sure if that’s good for me or not. I’m driving my wife nuts, though, so that’s a plus. My oldest son, Jake, got married on the island of Corfu in Greece this year. He’s currently in the Army stationed at Fort Bragg. Made a pit stop in Iceland on the way; I’d highly recommend taking a trip to both places. Two kids in grad school, one in high school, one other working. Interesting times!

Class of 1991: Brian Snider on a fishing trip.

Class of 1991: Wade Witham, Eric Burks, and Chris Wyatt at the beach.

William Woodward

BRs,

Here are the latest updates from our classmates: Following up on my announcement in the last edition of the Alumni Review that Marshall Taylor ’26, Carney Taylor’s son, was awarded our class scholarship for the 2024–25 academic year, I received a wonderful thank you note from Marshall expressing his gratitude for having been the recipient of the scholarship. Marshall reports he is extremely excited to be entering his 2nd Class year, where he will be first sergeant for Alpha Company. He went on to say, “VMI has already taught me a lifetime full of knowledge, and I still have 2 more years to go.” By the time this article is published in November 2024, Marshall will be close to if not already in receipt of his class ring! I received a few updates from my roommate, Charlie Martin, both revolving around the local high school and college baseball scene. Patrick O’Ferrall’s nephew, Griff, was drafted 32nd overall out of UVA by the Baltimore Orioles in the July draft. Griff’s father is Ren O’Ferrall ’89. I believe I previously reported Charlie’s son, Chad, is also quite a baseball player. He will be playing for Bridgewater this year as a freshman. Chad and his Glen Allen High School team in Richmond had a great run in the playoffs this spring. In the regionals, Chad pitched a combined nine-plus innings over the three games, with his team winning all three and taking the championship. Chad was named First Team All-Region as a pitcher. At states, they won their quarterfinal but lost in the semis. Chad pitched seven more innings over those two games, only giving up one run. Charlie and Denise’s daughter, Nancy, is due to be married in October.

Jay Frey sent in a picture of him; Andy Tate; Dan Lyle, our resident rugby expert; and Marc Orgain attending the USA Eagles versus Scotland rugby match at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., July 12. Mike Starling was also in attendance but missed the picture!

Class Notes

Jon Jacobs ’89 was there, as well. Jay reports a great time was had by all, even though the Eagles lost the match.

Greg Lee sent in an update with a photo in which he said, “My wife, Kelly, and I met Dan Agostini at a Flying Boxcars baseball game and then spent the night with his family, Dawn, Ben, and Sam at their home in Boonsboro, Maryland. The next morning, he took us hiking— he is still a hiking machine—before we returned home to Virginia Beach. Such an amazing weekend shared with Dan and his family!”

Bob Burgess sent me an update in which he said he was planning to play golf with Chris Jones, Joe McClung, and Andy Tate later in August. He promised a picture from the outing which I will include in the next set of inputs!

Anhtuan Nguyen sent me an update with a picture about a recent link up he had with John Driscoll and Tom Gnecco. Anhtuan reported, “It was a very sunny day, June 30. I called John and Tom to have dim sum at the Hong Kong Pearl Restaurant at Seven Corners in NOVA. One big-deal thing: They both ate chicken feet and tried durian that day ... lol. John retired from the U.S. Coast Guard as a captain (O-6) at the end of June 2024 with 30-plus years of service. He now lives in Arlington, Virginia, and is making handsome money working as a contractor.” Earlier in June, Anhtuan and

Class of 1992: Gathering at Dave and Noorie Womack’s house at Camp Zama, Japan, are (from left) Marcus Waehler, Jason Troxell, Chris Wunsch ’13, Bill Sharp, Dave Womack, Bill Leimkuhler, and Nick Franck ’07.

Class of 1992: Attending a USA versus Scotland rugby match in Washington, D.C., in July 2024 are (from left) Andy Tate, Dan Lyle, Jay Frey, and Marc Orgain.

Class of 1992: The Mazzei family at Hudson Mazzei’s commissioning at the U.S. Military Academy in May 2024 are (from left) Avery, Daniel Jr., Dan, Hudson, Brooke, Aderna, and Deborah.

John also linked up with Alex Alston at a NOVA alumni outing at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia.

Dan Mazzei sent me an update and a picture of him commissioning his son, Hudson, into the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant after graduating recently from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York. Dan mentioned, “The lessons of VMI fared well for me in life and as a father.”

Dan included updates on his and wife Brooke’s family. Daughters Avery and Deborah are both studying to be teachers at Oral Roberts University while also being NCAA runners. Daughter Adrena is an assistant coach at ORU for cross country and track. Hudson was a member of the USMA rowing team and is heading off to Army Flight

Class of 1992: Greg Lee (left) and Dan Agostini hiking on the Appalachian Trail in Maryland.

School. Dan’s other son, Daniel Jr., is also a graduate of USMA and is a Ranger in the 10th Mountain Division and was the captain of the USMA cross country team while a cadet.

Bill Sharp; Bill Leimkuhler; and Dave Womack’s wife, Noorie, sent in pictures and an update from a recent 1992 gathering at Camp Zama in Japan. Bill Sharp reported, “Avery (my 15-year-old) and I got to visit with BRs in Japan this summer. Jason Troxell (along with Ashley and Jackson), Marcus Waehler (and his daughter, Stella), and the entire Leimkuhler clan (Bill, Meredith, Ava, and Mallory) were all in attendance. Major General David Womack and his wife, Noorie, hosted us at their quarters on Camp Zama, just southwest of Tokyo, where Dave serves as the commander of U.S. Army Japan. The Womacks had been there just over a year, and the Leimkuhlers lived in Tokyo years ago, so we had excellent guides. Everyone had a great time touring the sites and riding the trains. Visiting Tokyo has a lot to do with experiencing mass transit. What an amazing culture. I’m so very thankful to have been able to enjoy the time together with family and friends.”

Please let me know of any major life events such as marriages (including for our children), births, deaths, and advanced degrees so I can inform the Alumni Review. If you have a change of address, let the Alumni Association and I know so that we can make sure you get all VMI correspondence. In the Bonds, Woody

1993

Lincoln Swineford

Brother Rats!

As we wind down the summer, I hope you’ve had a good vacation season, as I submit this just after a week in Hilton Head.

This is old news by now, but VMI announced a new commandant this morning and he is one of our dykes, Ley Havird ’90

I’ll share now that two of our own, Dan Hill and Dom Ford, both got well into the interview process for the position. Dom was in contention to the bitter end, including a third interview with the superintendent, among others, but the “I” went in another direction. I’d say both were in the top four or five, probably higher. I’m proud Dan and Dom got that far into it and were both seriously considered for the job. They both would have excelled

at the position and would’ve been credits to the Institute. I should say, they would’ve been more credits to the Institute, if that’s grammatically correct: Both have served this country in our military for over 25 years, both have sacrificed, both have been exceptional leaders, and both were willing to sacrifice 3 more years of their retirement in service. Good men, the both of them. I was rooting hard for them both.

Dom also checked in with an update: “As for me, my update is that the entire Ford family went to Normandy for the 80th anniversary of D-Day and had a great time. Ran into multiple VMI alum at DFW and Charles de Gaulle airports and also at the American Cemetery in Normandy. The Institute was well represented! The Fords will be in College Station, Texas, July 20–21, as our 13-year-old son, Ryon, qualified for Texas Age Group Swimming state championships. Also, our daughter, Jacqueline, starts her senior year at Penn State next month. We are very proud of both the kiddos. We will be vacationing in Carlsbad, California (San Diego area) July 30–Aug. 11 if any BRs want to get together. Since I didn’t get the VMI gig, post-vacation, I’ll be busy looking for a hunting lease, hitting the gym and gun range, volunteering, traveling, playing pickleball, and possibly pursuing a master’s degree. I will close by saying that interviewing for the commandant’s position was an honor and an informative process. I met with the superintendent, dean, football and basketball coaches, ROTC colonels, Sergeant Major Sowers, and the commandant’s staff, among others. There is a superb team in place that is navigating the Institute through many challenges. I can also see VMI has made and continues to make necessary changes required to keep VMI a relevant, respected producer of leaders. That said, they dropped pullups from the PFT and don’t run the random after-taps stick, which is irksome. I would have fixed that! Regardless, VMI’s leadership has a sound, well thought-out strategic plan that they are ‘operationalizing’ over the next few months. Looking forward to seeing positive results in execution!” Sounds like you had a great trip, Dom. Glad you and your family got a chance to do it. And congratulations, again.

And speaking of our brother rats serving the Institute, congratulations to Clifford Foster for being named to the VMI Board of Visitors for a 4-year term. Cliff has served on the boards of the VMI Club of Richmond, the VMI Alumni Association, and the Keydet Club. This is a huge honor, and we’re proud of you, Cliff!

Retirement update: Our own Capt. Greg Vinci has retired after 31 years. The Alumni Review has an article about Greg’s retirement in this issue (or

Class of 1992: John Driscoll, Anhtuan Nguyen, and Tom Gnecco in June 2024.

they should have it), but I thought I would include some of Greg’s remarks from his retirement speech, as shared on Facebook: “This past Friday, I was able to celebrate my 31-year naval career with friends and family far and near. As I shared in my remarks, ‘So many retirement speeches talk about the sacrifices of service. It’s true, the sacrifices have been many, but so, too, have been the blessings. My wife, Lauren, and our kids, Matt and Lizzie, and I have traversed the globe serving in 17 different jobs at 14 separate duty stations, including Puerto Rico; Japan; Italy; Haiti; Africa; Florida; Virginia; Hawaii; California; and Washington, D.C. Our furniture is scratched and dented from thousands of miles of travel across the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. But what military families understand very intimately is this—what the table looks like is of absolutely no consequence. It’s the people around the table that matter. And when I think back over the slideshow of our life and all the extraordinary people we’ve broken bread with at that table, I almost can’t believe our good fortune. Our blessings. Each of you here today and many others from far and wide across this planet are our blessings. It was a wonderful weekend honoring all of those whose shoulders I have stood on. We love you and thank you!’” Great thoughts, Greg! Congratulations again on retirement. Good luck in the next chapter, and thank you and your family again for your service!

sure where to move to yet. Thinking the Carolinas or Georgia; just been casually looking online. If anyone is a real estate agent or has a good one in those areas, let me know.” Good luck on the move, Heath, and yes, that is how quite a few civilian companies work.

Matt Eades checked in with a great update: “Thanks to a special VMI connection through the family of one of our BRs, I was invited to

into the Atlantic and motored through the Cape Cod Canal—sort of a much simpler version of the Panama Canal. Through VMI contacts and Facebook, I have built a list of other VMI grads who have good sailing experience. My hope is to possibly organize a VMI alumni annual bareboat sailing trip. Anyone interested is free to contact me.” Sounds like you’re putting together a great opportunity for our sailors, Matt, and glad you had a good time on your trip!

Heath Bono let me know that he and his wife “are looking to relocate out of New Jersey. I am retired from the police and the military and, now, no more kids in school. My daughter just graduated from an accelerated nursing program as magna cum laude and got her BSRN. She immediately got a job at a hospital in Pittsburgh and starts at the end of July. Hopefully, she will do well enough to take over her student loans. I am working as the security chief for the Phillips 66 refinery in North Jersey. It is like a mini city, and I run the security and EMS. The fire chief is my boss. It is not really fulfilling, and it seems like I am the only one who figures things out. I had to figure out a new QR code printer that we got. Everyone else just gave up, even though it had to get done. Is that how civilian companies work? Quite frustrating, which is also a motivating factor to relocate and start new. Not

crew on a 45-foot sailboat in early June. The boat owner and captain had just won a transatlantic race, terminating in Newport, Rhode Island. During the layover before sailing back across the Atlantic, we did a great 4-day trip out of Newport Yacht Club. We sailed 240 miles over 4 very full days! Overnight stops included Nantucket, Cape Cod, and Martha’s Vineyard. We ventured out far

Donnie Holloway also sent an update:

“I retired as colonel from the Air Force in 2019. I’ve been working for MITRE Corporation in McLean, Virginia, for the past 5 years as a principal, business, and technology strategist. My biggest update is the amazing joy of being ‘granddad’ to my daughter’s family. I have a grandson (age 4) and granddaughter (age 1). My son, Cam, graduated Virginia Tech in May with an engineering degree. I remain a blessed man.”

I emailed briefly with Granville Higgins. Granville is a general superintendent for Turner Construction Company and is currently working in the Northern Virginia/D.C. area. Related to Higgy, I crossed paths with a guy from ’19 recently on one of my projects here in Richmond. We were talking about VMI folks we both worked with, and he said, “I worked up in NOVA for a while with Turner, and my mentor there was a VMI guy; he was great. I learned a lot from him.” He was talking about Higgy. It’s always nice to hear good things about our brother rats, so nice work on mentoring and schooling up the next generation, Higgy.

Scott Eanes also checked in from Iowa: “I recently resigned my position as emergency preparedness coordinator for the Southwest Iowa Healthcare Coalition, the job I have had for the last 4 years since my retirement from the Navy. I have decided to concentrate on continuing my professional development as an emergency medical services provider and educator. By the time this goes to press, I’ll be almost finished with my yearlong training as a paramedic, and hopefully I will pass the National Registry exam in December and become a licensed paramedic in the state of Iowa. Concurrently, I have taken on a more robust role as an EMS educator at Iowa Western Community College. This fall, we are introducing an associate’s degree program for the first time that includes

Class of 1993: Brother rats with Coach Ricky Cruze ’87 at the VMI Football Reunion in August 2024.

Class of 1993: Greg Vinci and his family at his retirement from the U.S. Navy.

EMT and paramedic certification training in addition to fire science courses. I was chosen to be the instructor for the emergency medical technician portion of this. So, if anybody is in education or EMS (looking at you Adam Galton) and has any pearls of wisdom for me, please reach out! My wife recently passed her licensing exam as an independent clinical social worker and has taken on a full load of clients as a mental health therapist in Council Bluffs. Inga and I are still trying to manage our busy lives and the demands of living on our acreage in the country with our horses, donkeys, and labradoodles. Every day is a new adventure! Best wishes to everyone!” Glad to hear everyone is doing well, Mr. Eanes, and good luck with the EMS work!

John Casarotti and Kelly Holbert both checked in from the third annual VMI Football Reunion. There was a great turnout from the Wishbone Era. This year, they got to meet Coach Ricky Cruze ’87 and also got to see Dale Johnson, Jon Pardew, Steve Roberts, and Lorenzo Carpenter

Brian Cox also checked in with some good news: “My son, Reid, graduated with the VMI Class of 2024 as a computer science major with a minor in cyber security and history. I have to give tremendous credit to several brother rats for providing him with wise guidance through his 4-year journey at the Institute. These BRs are Steve Thrasher, Lee Clark, and Stephen Allison. Reid has been offered a role with CACI International doing computer programming and coding.” That’s great news, Brian! Congratulations to Reid and nice work, BRs!

Bill Cox checked in by text but earlier than his usual reply time, which is usually skidding in under the wire: “All is well with the Cox clan. Just got back from a great birthday weekend at our river house. Plenty of friends, dogs, beers, fish, and crabs. I think after turning 34 20 times, I’m ready to move on to 35. Our oldest daughter, Addison, is settled into New York after living there all summer. She just moved into her dorm for Columbia Law. I hope she is ready for what lies ahead. Dacie and William are here in Richmond, which is a godsend, and have helped a lot with my mother-in-law, who is short-term living with us while she recovers from a knee replacement. We have had a great summer, and I look forward to the rest of it. My dog, Cooper, has become quite the fisherman this summer. He is hilarious to watch. He literally barks every time I cast. He loves to give the fish a good head crunch if I let him. All in all, I have no complaints, and life is good. I love my new job, even though I have a ways to go to get the plant where I want it, but we are making progress. I am looking forward

to the future with Valmont. I have included some favorite pictures from the summer, as well. It was good seeing the guys who came down to the get together earlier this month. A small crowd, but we had a blast. Hey, Lincoln, what was that Italian lager called again?”

To expand a little on that last comment and question from Bill, our Class of ’93 summer happy hour turned into a relatively intimate affair with me, Bill, John Barefoot, and Darin Ramsey. Our thanks to John for picking up the tab, and despite some confusion about the name of an Italian lager that John brews (which is just ... Italian Lager), it was a good time catching up.

I continue to run into Chad Smith out and about on jobs. Chad works for KBS General Contractors here in Richmond, which is a GC with a strong VMI presence. Started by two VMI guys, currently run by Sam Stocks ’90, and they have what seems like dozens of VMI guys working as superintendents (like Chad) or project managers or what not. Chad and I work together for a national client that is ... demanding. They’re usually tough projects because they’re remodels, but Chad is always out in front of problems, taking care of business.

I also went to VMI Night at the Nationals ballpark in July. I really can’t recommend this gathering enough. Great time in a great stadium and lots of VMI guys. April couldn’t make it, but I took our two youngest and met with our oldest daughter and her boyfriend at the stadium. Getting to the stadium was a bit of an adventure: I picked up Dan Hill from his hotel in downtown D.C., then promptly got a flat tire. In D.C. at 5 p.m. Dan and I got the tire changed relatively quickly, but there’s no doubt we were definitely featured on Waze, as we were on a tiny two-lane road making the change. We finally got to the game and had a great time. Met up with Scott Coleman, who was there with his wife, and several other VMI guys we knew: Ramil Ibanez ’90, Bill Smith ’91, and Dan Robinson ’91, along with several of their brother rats. Other Keydets ranged from the early ’80s to guys that graduated 10 weeks before. It is really pretty cool to be able to talk with guys that are spread across so many years.

Busy summer for the Swinefords. Took the family to Hilton Head for a summer break and timed it so we got there about 18 hours before Tropical Storm Debby made landfall to the north of us. It wasn’t that bad for us, just a ton of rain and high winds, but no damage or life-threatening issues. Turns out that Mike Howard was also at Hilton Head at the same time, but I wasn’t able to make it out to see him. Totally my fault, and I’m sorry for it. Would’ve been great to be able to

catch up. It was a weird vacation: Bipolar weather, where it would be really nice for 3 or 4 hours, so we would hit the beach and then rain that came in so hard it was sideways. Lump in a vicious sunburn for the ages and the fact that my oldest daughter and her then-boyfriend came down a couple of days ahead of us and her boyfriend turned into her fiancé, it made for an exciting week. We knew it was coming; he had called me and April the week

Class of 1993: Dom Ford and his family in Normandy, France.

Class of 1993: Brian Cox with his son, Reid Cox ’24, at Reid’s graduation in May 2024.

before, but as Lee Clark said in a text to me where we were commiserating because his daughter also got engaged (to a VMI guy), it can be a bit much. Still, I’m happy for them and wish them the best. Overall, good summer for us, and I hope it was a good summer for all of you and yours! Remember that the football season starts soon! We open at William & Mary Aug. 29. Lou Petrillo and Ayen Torchik are with the Williamsburg Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association and are hosting a party. The Citadel comes to VMI Oct. 19. Last home game is Nov. 23. There are other games, but those are typically the big ones. Hope to see you at one of or many of the games!

Thanks to everyone who sent in an update. If you haven’t sent one in recently—or ever—please send one along so we can catch up.

Hope you all have a great summer! ’93, ’93, ’93.

Clay Campbell

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 1994.

fast approaching. Mark your calendars for April 24–26, 2025. A few other classmates and I have teamed up with the Alumni Agencies to put together a weekend to remember. We’re diving into the planning now, and I’ll be sending updates throughout the fall and into the spring. By the time this reaches all of you, you should have gotten the initial notifications, which will outline logistics, hotel blocks, etc. The schedule is being ironed out now, and there are several activities we are trying to line up to make this a great time.

frame, but at least the mahi they caught was worth the diesel they probably burned.

Michael Fellows

Brother Rats,

I hope this message finds you basking in the glow of a great summer, with your families happy and healthy. It feels like just yesterday we were back on post, yet here we are, gearing up for our 30th Reunion.

As for me, life has been quite an adventure lately. I’m typing up these notes in a dingy hotel in Ribeirao Preto, Brazil. I’ve been traveling overseas for both personal and professional endeavors, and the pace has been hectic. The sights have been amazing, and the work fulfilling, but I’ll admit, as fall approaches, I’m looking forward to being back stateside, watching some football and just kicking back with friends and family. There’s something about autumn that always feels like coming home, and I’m ready.

Speaking of home, our class’ 30th Reunion is

Going through some of the emails and texts I’ve gotten over the summer shows a bit of just how wide-ranging many of our careers and paths have taken us. I wanted to take a moment to shine a light on one of our own, Rick Franco, and the incredible success he’s achieved with the launch of Four Branches Bourbon. This isn’t just any bourbon; it’s a labor of love, crafted with precision and passion. Rick’s journey in bringing this brand to life is nothing short of inspiring, and the results speak for themselves. Do yourself a favor and look it up or reach out to Rick because it’s a great story. What’s cool for those of you in Virginia is that it’s officially available in Virginia ABC stores! This is a huge milestone, and it’s a testament to Rick’s dedication and hard work. Let’s rally behind him and show our support by picking up a bottle (or two) for ourselves, our friends, and our families. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or just enjoy the occasional sip, this is something we can all be proud of. Here’s to Rick and his continued success; let’s raise a glass to a fellow brother rat doing great things!

Dave Fleck and Brad Moses checked in from the Outer Banks, where they ran offshore for some fishing. The photo only had three fish in the

In some other exciting news to share: Eric Fegley’s son, Luke Fegley ’22, recently tied the knot Aug. 11! I received a photo from the big day, and let me tell you, I was absolutely stunned to see Justin Bogaty, “Weez,” in the picture. I can’t even remember the last time I saw Weez! It never fails that every time someone sends me a photo of someone or a quick text about a milestone or just saying hello, it reminds me just how connected we all are, no matter how much time passes. Congrats to Luke

Class of 1995: Dave Fleck and Brad Moses after a fishing trip in the Outer Banks of North Carolina in summer 2024.

Class of 1995: Among those attending the wedding of Luke Fegley ’24 and his wife, Heather, Aug. 11, 2024, are Justin Bogaty, Luke, Heather, and Eric Fegley.

and the entire Fegley family!

I also wanted to take a moment to recognize an incredible achievement of Sean Davis being recently promoted to major general. Sean has had a tremendous career in the U.S. Army, and this is a fantastic accomplishment. Sean was most recently the commanding general, 13th Expeditionary Sustainment Command, Fort Cavazos, Texas, and is now the deputy chief of staff, G-4, United States Army Forces Command, Fort Liberty, North Carolina. Sean has been a key person in many of the developments we’ve seen and read about in recent years. A quick search online quickly showed just how much of an impact he’s had—not only within the U.S. Army but also in strengthening our relationships with allies around

the world. His dedication, leadership, and service have made a difference on a global scale, and we can be proud to call him one of our BRs.

With all of these great accomplishments listed, I thought it might be fun to close with one that might not be as impressive but will at least make a few of us chuckle. So, get this: Dave Mitchell and his lovely wife, Forrest, decided to follow in the footsteps of the legendary duo from “Dumb and Dumber” and took a trip to Niagara Falls! I couldn’t help but laugh when I heard. I mean, who wouldn’t want to recreate such an iconic journey?

Now, Dave, we’re all dying to know—did you manage to score that heart-shaped bathtub? Or did it turn out to be one of those “we’ve landed on the moon” moments? Hope you had an epic time, buddy. Can’t wait to hear the stories! I’ve included the picture he sent out to several of us of him and his wife standing next to a ship going through a canal. Once an engineering nerd, always an engineering nerd. Scott Shipp rules!

I can’t wait for the reunion to reconnect with everyone, swap stories, and celebrate all we’ve accomplished together over the years. Stay tuned for more details as we continue to pull everything together!

Until then, take care of yourselves and your loved ones. Here’s to the great times ahead.

All the Best, Michael Fellows

1996

Brother Rats,

Hey, brother rats. I am hoping that everyone has had some great experiences over the summer, and that, for those with kids, the school year has gotten off to a strong start.

I wanted to begin by sharing a story from a recent rat send-off Jim Tinguely and I attended in the Philly area this August. Some older alumni had observed over recent years how close our class seemed to be and asked us why this was. Jim proceeded to explain that it’s the way we support our BRs and their families in both good times and

in difficult ones, especially in tragedy. I thought that Jim’s response was special and so true to who we are as a class. With that in mind, it is with great sadness that I inform you all that we lost Brother Rat Ken Mears this past August. He leaves behind his wonderful wife, Emily, and their two children, Ranson and Benjamin. I am pleased to know that Jamal Thomas had visited Ken and his family this year, which was special. Please keep Ken and his family in your prayers and in your memories as he was and forever will be our brother. Our class was uniquely represented at this year’s graduation ceremony for the Class of 2024. Mark Townsend’s daughter, Virginia Townsend ’24, spoke at graduation as the valedictorian and our very own Ryan McCarthy was the guest speaker for the graduation. You can listen to a recording of these speeches, and it is well worth it. Very impressive speeches by both of them. Mark had two daughters graduate this year, with Anne Townsend ’24 joining her sister in receiving her diploma. Well done to the Townsend family. Stephen Johnson reached out letting us know he is still at the National War College in D.C., and he just started a new academic year. He will be teaching two classes this fall, “Foundations of Strategic Logic” and a regional strategic context class on Russia and Ukraine. He also will hit the 30-year mark in just over 24 months, after which he will be put out to pasture. After that, who knows? Their oldest will be matriculating this Saturday with his best friend from elementary school in San Diego. They made a pact in the fourth grade, apparently, that they would both go to VMI. That’s commitment. Their youngest

Class of 1995: Dave Mitchell at the locks connecting Lake Erie and Lake Ontario in July 2024.

Class of 1995: Rick Franco (second from left) with associates as they mark the occasion of Four Branches Bourbon being carried in Virginia ABC outlets.

Jon Dano

Nick Latsios

Class of 1996: Pictured are Bryan Smith; Travis Hughes; William Hughes, son of Travis Hughes; Nick Latsios; and Tonio Napolitano.

was in terms of soccer talent. He lives on Lake Anna in Virginia and is living the good life there, boating and fishing.

In sports news, I heard from Vern Wilkens I’m sure you all share my sentiment when I say I would have loved to have seen V-Boy Verny on the Olympic stage.

All the best to you and your families, and God bless Ken Mears. Jon and Nick

David M. Hudock

will start his junior year in a few weeks. He wants to go to the Naval Academy like his grandfather (God forbid!) but has VMI as a backup plan. What an impressive family!

I also heard from Wes Parmer, who is proud to announce his military retirement effective June 1 this year after 28 years in the Army. He said it’s been a dynamic year of transition, initially working with Booz Allen in a defense consulting role, but he is super excited about a new opportunity with Oracle working alongside BR Chris Lowe on the DoD Business Development team. He took a few months off during the transition, and they celebrated his retirement and 50th birthday with an amazing trip to Iceland, where his wife, Lara, surprised him with an unbelievable stay at a wilderness lodge and several days of heli-boarding in the Troll Peninsula. Amazing food, world-class snowboarding, and they were treated to an unbelievable northern lights display during their stay there. Truly the trip of a lifetime!

Gentlemen of the Old Corps!

Greetings from sweltering Washington, D.C.! Does “sweltering” bring back some good memories? Maybe not, but by the time you read this, autumn will have hopefully arrived (for those of us in the northern hemisphere; sorry, Jim Rodgers), and you are each hopefully enjoying some refreshingly cool fall weather, and, if all has gone well, a new president-elect! It’s hard to imagine, sitting here in August, that by the time this missive is on the printed page in a published Alumni Review, both hot weather and presidential campaigns will be distant memories. And for that, we can all be thankful and turn our attention to reminiscing, fondly, of more important events, such as the annual Class of 1997 Summer FTX!

Nick Latsios reported that the legacy of ’96 continues with the sendoff of our BR Travis Hughes’ eldest son William Hughes, preparing to take the road less traveled and matriculate with the Rat Mass of ’25+3. Attending the sendoff were roommate Bryan Smith, Nick Latsios, and Antonio Napolitano. Travis and Summer Hughes are very proud, and we wish William all the best with his journey and look forward to hearing from him in the coming years.

Nick also called out that the wait is finally

over; after purchasing tickets in 2022, Mike Ohleger, Graham Ohleger ’22, and Nick Latsios finally were able to make the trip to Foxborough Stadium for an epic Metallica show in July 2024. The wait was worth it. What would a trip to the New England area be without meeting up with BR Tom Danielsen? Tom and his wife, Leanne, were preparing to catch a flight to Copenhagen and were able to procrastinate just a bit with packing to meet for lunch. I was able to meet up with Gary Netzer this spring, along with Trey Kirby and Matt Creech It’s the first time we had seen him in a while, and it was a blast catching up and talking about our old soccer days and, honestly, just how good our class

Once again, this past July, a few intrepid brother rats congregated in the outskirts of Lex Vegas to test the depths and flow rates of the mighty Maury River and, of course, the buoyancy of their own middle-aged, semi-flabby bodies. At the very least, I can report no fatalities were reported at the end of the weekend but judging by the photos and recounting of the experience by a few participants, there was no shortage of scraped knees, bruised bottoms, and healthy sunburns. And with that list of mild injuries, I think the event can be called a “success,” maybe even “safe!”

Hard to say who traveled the furthest to ride the raucous rapids of the Maury; Joe Howard left the dry deserts of Arizona in search of the flowing waters of western Virginia, while Rich Dixon traveled from the mile-high city to explore the often

Class of 1996: Pictured at the VMI graduation of Virginia Townsend ’24 and Anne Townsend ’24 are (from left) Ryan McCarthy, Mark Townsend, Virginia, Ali Townsend, Anne, John Adams, and Bryan Smith.

Class of 1996: Pictured are (from left) Mike Ohleger, Graham Ohleger ’22, Tom Danielsen, and Nick Latsios.

inches-deep Maury. Ryan Shy came all the way from the foothills of the Smokies in Charlotte, North Carolina, to race down the white waters of the Shenandoah. Unclear if Ryan carpooled with Phu Trinh, also a current Charlotte resident. Others like Gary Compton, “Wild” Bill Stagg, Matt “B*tthead” Smith, Brian “Elk” Richardson, and Brett “Flounder” Ogletree braved the Afton Mountain crossing from Richmond to get to Rockbridge County’s rolling hills and wicked white water. Others didn’t have to come too far, like Don Crook, who probably rode his bike over from Roanoke. Steve Strachan, Mike Moody, and Joe Kmiecinski all came from around Virginia and the North Carolina crowd was rounded out by Mike Belenky, in from the Army’s favorite fun town, Fayetteville. Sounds like a good time was had by all and the planning already began for next year’s FTX, the sixth (or seventh?) iteration and what will undoubtedly be a long class tradition, or as long as our bodies can stand it.

Starting off with two very exciting updates for the Class of 1998 to celebrate: Happy to share that the president of the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees is none other than our very own Ernesto Sampson, and the first vice president (next president when current terms are up) of the VMI Keydet Club is another member of this wonderful class, Andre Thornton. Congratulations, guys, and thanks for taking on the challenge and representing our class in these very important roles!

Speaking of Mike Belenky, his sentence in Fayetteville finally came to an end when he turned over command of the 44th Medical Brigade this

summer and moved back to Northern Virginia, where he reported for duty at the Defense Health Headquarters in Falls Church to serve as the director, health care operations in the Army’s Office of the Surgeon General. Mike’s oldest, Sarah, is, as I write this, being dropped off to start her freshman year at James Madison University. In 5 years, she’ll graduate with a master’s and return to the classroom in NOVA to teach the next generation of youngsters. How time flies! Congratulations on a successful command tour, Mike, and good luck at your next assignment!

That will wrap things up for this entry. I appreciate your inputs and you reading this! Enjoy the rest of your fall, have a happy Thanksgiving, a warm holiday season, and a very joyous new year! See you in the winter!

Ernesto shared an image included in this Review that is from the Promaji Alumni Impact annual conference held in Richmond June 12–13, which turned out to be a mini ’98 reunion: Mike Rogers, Avi Hopkins, Andre Thornton, Ernesto Sampson, Brandon Bissell, and Darrius Jackson-Walker. Looking great, guys!

In other news, Christian Craft checked in and provided one of the pictures included with this edition as he met with Jon Gonzales and Ryan Hughes while attending a family reunion in South Carolina. They are all doing well, from what I understand, and sidebar, I heard from Jon last week via text as his son is attending VMI and started practice yesterday.

Tori and I recently spent some time catching up with Brandon and Lynne Bissell on an impromptu evening, which led to a late night of wine indulgence (late by our standards at this point, I would say). It was a great time right off the 18th green of the LGCC, and we got to tour their domicile and admire all of the great work they have done, while also hearing about their plans. Brandon had just returned from an extensive trip overseas with the superintendent, which he said was great. They are both doing well, and we are looking forward to connecting again with them as soon as we can.

On this Aug. 15, we are right where we expect to be—days away from matriculation and Lexington is buzzing with the Corps return and the pending indoctrination of the next class of aspiring VMI men and women. Relatively quiet update—I wish it were more. I did get a few happy Matriculation Day texts today (and I hope you all did as well)! Please send me some notes, and if you are coming to Lexington, I would love to meet up if you have time to shoot me a text in advance and would like to. We have a small ’98 crew here now and need some help getting it together more!

Class of 1997: Members of the class during their annual summer field training exercises on the Maury River near Lexington, Virginia.

Class of 1997: Mike Belenky speaks at his change of command ceremony, where he turned over command of the 44th Medical Brigade, in July 2024. 1998

Joey Bates

Class of 1998: Christian Craft, Jon Gonzales, and Ryan Hughes in South Carolina.

The quickest way to reach me is via text or joeybates@hotmail.com.

I hope you are well, and when you read these notes in November 2024, that you take a few minutes to shoot me an email, Facebook messenger, or text message so that I have more to share, and if you are coming to town this fall/ winter/spring for any activities— then please give me a shout in advance. Rah Virginia Mil! ’98, ’98, ’98.

many hours of their time to plan and coordinate the weekend on our behalf and worked with others to communicate with you regarding the event. On behalf of the class, I would like to thank them for their thoughtful and selfless work serving the class. Great job, gentlemen, and thank you!

BR Jason Berg checked in from Okinawa, Japan. Jason is still in command of Combat Logistics Regiment 3 and is looking forward to seeing everyone when he is stateside this September. Travis Quesenberry checked in from Daleville,

Greetings, Brother Rats and Friends of the Class of 1999,

At the time of this writing, we are just a few weeks away from our 25th Reunion. By the time you receive the Alumni Review which will include this update, reunion weekend will be a warm and distant memory. That said, planning for the event was a significant effort and there were many who served the Class of 1999 in preparation for the reunion. BR Patrick Henderson led the Campaign Committee, which included BRs Brian Neal, Greg McDearmon, and Jeremy Obenchain. BR Brad Wineman led the Events Committee, which included BRs Van Carson, Matt Irving, Kris Turpin, and Dallas Clark. These gentlemen volunteered

Virginia, writing: “I completed brigade command this past July, which has consumed a vast majority of my time the past 2 years. Even though it was in the Army Reserve, it was an organization with five battalions, three training sites, and covered the entire country with a mission that was nonstop the entire year. It really did take a family effort to balance my full-time civilian job and the Army, which Sarah deserves all the credit for. Andrew is going into 2nd Class year, which means not only do we get to pay tuition, but also for the best class ring of any school around. Ryan is starting his senior year in high school and can’t wait for football to get going. Sarah continues to teach fourth grade and has done an incredible job running a nonprofit to fundraise for Ryan’s high school football team. I see Patrick Henderson and Andy Fuller often and ran into Fletcher Cox at the recent rat send-off. I also try to catch up with Pat Meyer and John Wright in Richmond whenever I get the chance. It will be great to see everyone in a month at the reunion and talk trash about the Old Corps days.” Congrats on finishing up the noteworthy accomplishment of brigade command, Travis! And it will indeed be great to have all our BRs at the Institute to reminisce and enjoy the bonds of VMI! Brother rats, make sure you update your contact information with the Alumni Agencies. Changes/updates can be sent to Mary Price at mprice@vmiaa.org or to me. I look forward to speaking with each of you soon, but until then, all the best to you and your families and Rah Virginia Mil!

BR Jay Witt

Class of 1998: Mike Rogers, Avi Hopkins, Andre Thornton, Ernesto Sampson, Brandon Bissell, and Darrius Jackson-Walker at the Promaji Alumni Impact annual conference in Richmond, Virginia, in June 2024.

Jay Witt

Class of 1999: Pictured at Travis Quesenberry’s change of command ceremony are (from left) son, Cadet Andrew Quesenberry ’26; Travis; wife, Sarah; and son, Ryan.

Class of 1999: Travis Quesenberry relinquishes brigade command of the Army Reserve’s 4th Brigade, 94th Division.

2000

Brad Allen has officially retired after 25 years in the Air Force. They have moved to Pensacola, Florida, and he is looking for something that has him doing as little as he did in the military with the same pay. Please reach out if you have any openings, and CC me.

Will R. Beverlin has sold his home and moved into a rental as they plan their next move. Having a successful race season with Almost Home Motorsports and Dusted as premier sponsor, he is leading the points by 112 with two races remaining, so it’s promising he’ll secure the 2024 Track Championship! He is looking to potentially start a retail business to augment and supplement the racing budget. I think he should get CC’d on Brad’s emails, as well.

Paul Keeton, Rich Baltimore, Adam Priest, and I finally dove the Big Blue Hole off the coast of Belize. After 4 years of talking about it, we finally pulled the trigger. We flew the VMI flag on the boat like we have done for 12 years.

represented and had the opportunity to watch practice, have lunch with the current cadet-athletes, and hear from both Coach Rocco and our new athletic director, Jamaal Walton ’07 The highlight for me was catching up with BRs/fellow WRs Teray Frost and Aaron Yarbough. Both are doing well and look like they could throw on some pads and show those young Keydets a thing or two. Overall, it was a huge success, and we are looking forward to doing it again next year as we celebrate 25 years since we won the Silver Shako our 1st Class year! However, our biggest update is that Jessica and I will become VMI parents on Aug. 17, 2024, when our daughter matriculates with the Rat Mass of ’25+3 and begins her own VMI journey. It is surreal, but we are so proud of her decision and excited for the opportunities that are ahead for her. If my math is correct, she will be a part of our dyke line and carrying on the VMI ’01 legacy! With that ... let the fun begin! I hope everyone is doing well these days, and I hope to see y’all at the ‘I’ this fall. RVM!” That’s truly fantastic on all counts, and we could not be prouder of Carlee Scott and wish her well!

Next, I heard from Kevin Fromm, as he transitions out of uniform and back into the classroom. He writes, “Heather and I moved in March from Austin, Texas, where I have been since June 2020 with Army Futures Command, to Santa Fe, New Mexico. Since then, I did a 3-month SkillBridge internship with the New Mexico Chamber of Commerce in Albuquerque.

Happy Fall, Y’all!

Hope everyone is ready and settled in for the 2024–25 school year and things are moving in a positive direction! Remember, the “runnin’ roos” don’t move backward!

Lots of updates and lots of pictures! I may have to put them on social media due to publication limits—yes, the world of print media clashing with our digital world! Don’t get Kim Herbert started!

I heard from Will Alley, and they have lots of news to share. He writes, “We have a few team Alley updates to share. First, over 128 former VMI football players gathered in Lexington earlier this month for our third annual VMI Football Reunion. Teams from the 1950s to the most recent graduating Class of 2024 were

Chris Abbott

Class of 2000: Paul Keeton, Rich Baltimore, Adam Priest, and Chris Abbott diving the Big Blue Hole in Belize.

2001

Tony Gelormine

Class of 2001: Pictured on a fishing trip in Chesapeake Beach, Maryland, are (from left) Victor Zottig; Victor’s son, Lucas; Billy’s son, Tristan; Billy Myers; Mark Bauserman; Tony Gelormine; and Tony’s son, Anthony.

Class of 2001: Kevin Fromm (left) with Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, at Kevin’s retirement ceremony.

In June, we went back to VMI for my retirement ceremony, at which Maj. Gen. Wins ’85 was gracious enough to officiate as a field artillery officer and the former force management branch proponent. Victor Zottig, Justin Walskey, Mark Bauserman, and Rachel Peterson, as well as a long list of fellow alumni, family, and friends were able to attend. I did my final out-processing from Army Futures Command and Fort Sam Houston, Texas, in July and on terminal leave through September. However, I was able to link up with James Shircliffe and Erin Pettyjohn in Albuquerque, representing the New Mexico Chapter of the Class of 2001. Lastly, I am taking a career break for a while and will start MBA classes at UCLA next week.” Congratulations on your retirement and getting into the MBA program—proud to know our class is representing from coast to coast!

Class Notes

I also heard from one of our inhouse docs, as Melissa Krawiec shared the following, “Getting ready for another matriculation here at the infirmary and my nephew, Sean, will be matriculating into ’25+3! So excited for him! Lukasz and I hiked up House Mountain last week; it’s becoming a summer ritual.” That’s so cool you guys have already started a tradition in your own backyard, and even more impressive you got him to wear a Tractor Supply hat! Don’t think we didn’t notice.

Lastly, I’m incredibly honored to share that Erin Pettyjohn is crushing it—in her fitness life and her professional life! We peer-pressured our way to get an update, and she didn’t disappoint.

She (humbly) writes, “Great to hear from you! I’m currently in Australia about to compete for TeamUSA in my age group for the Multisport World Championships.” How did we miss that?! Then she says she met up with Kevin

Fromm and James Shircliffe in Albuquerque. “It was great to catch up to them and their spouses.” Next, she merely states, “[This] is my promotion to colonel in the Air Force Reserve in May, officiated by Navy Captain Bill Harley.” What an incredible day that must have been, and a belated congratulations to Bill on making captain! She closes with a truly drop-the-mic accomplishment: “Lastly, I was promoted to senior executive service June 30 for the Department of the Air Force at the Air Force Research Labs.” Slap your grandma, that’s such a momentous event! We are all truly proud of you and everyone in our historic class! Well, now, I don’t want to tell you about this past weekend, but I’m going to anyway. Mark Bauserman, Victor Zottig (and his son, Lucas), Billy Myers (and his son, Tristan), and me (and my son, Anthony) went fishing in Chesapeake Beach. Meh. We caught three fish worth keeping between the seven of us, haha!

All the best, and see you in the counter march!

Tony G.

2002 Salmaan Khawaja

Hi, Everyone!

No notes were received in time for this publication. Laura and I and our five little Khawajas hope you and yours have a fantastic fall season! In the Spirit, Salmaan Khawaja

2003

William “Bill” Talley V BRs,

Here it is May 15, New Market Day, late in the evening, and I’m putting together this set of notes at the midnight hour to meet the submission

Class of 2001: Attending the VMI Football Reunion in August 2024 are (from left) Teray Frost, Will Alley, and Aaron Yarbough.

Class of 2001: Pictured at Erin Pettyjohn’s promotion to colonel in the U.S. Air Force Reserve are (from left) Bill Harley; Erin’s mother, Carol; Erin; Erin’s husband, John; and Erin’s daughter, Caelyn.

Class of 2001: Melissa and Lukasz Krawiec on top of House Mountain.

deadline. Tomorrow the Class of ’24 will enter the alumni ranks after graduation. It’s hard to believe that that was us 21 years ago! It’s been a busy spring since I last submitted notes in February, and these won’t hit your mailbox until August. I hope this finds you all well and gearing up for football season!

Chaz Wagner, a stalwart for sending in updates, caught up with Josh Gonzales in midMarch. I’ve got no idea where they were or what they were doing, but that could be classified information. Chaz also sent me a picture of him and Matt McQueen catching up in D.C. in late March. He confirmed that Matt was alive and doing well. Jared Swanson, another stalwart in providing updates for Band Co., reported that a handful of BRs—Noonan, Faff, Niebor, Nakazawa, Shpunder, Mayo, Lagrone, and Boatwright—all gathered at the Institute in late April for the retirement celebration of Col. John Brodie (Hon). It’s hard to imagine a VMI without Col. Brodie. In my humble opinion, he was one of the few folks at the Institute who had the ability to connect with almost anyone and form a relationship. He leaves tremendous shoes to be filled, and I have no doubt his presence will be missed, but what a well-deserved celebration for him. My understanding is that over 300 alumni showed up that weekend; what a testament to the man that is Col. Brodie

In mid-April, BR Pat Atchison’s Facebook account got hacked, as I think many of us noticed. BR Mike Haag reached out to me with concerns about what was being posted—come to find out, we were both interested in the same

Ford F-150 that was being listed for sale. At any rate, I was able to get in touch with Pat and confirm he was aware of what was happening. In talking with Pat, he told me that as frustrating as the situation was, he’d had the opportunity to catch up with quite a few BRs who had also reached out, which he said was great, despite the circumstances. He was greatly appreciative of everyone who reached out to make sure all was well. In talking with Mike Haag about this situation, he relayed that all was well with him and his family. They’re out in Phoenix, Arizona. Mike was able to catch up with Randall Harvey a little earlier this year. He reported that Randall was doing well.

In late April, Amie-Anne and I took our boys up to Legacy Day at VMI. I was surprised but glad to see Nick Foster and his son, Jackson, there, as well as Trey Guy and his entire family. Nick’s still down in North Carolina, but Trey and his family were getting ready to head to Hawaii for his next duty station. I had the privilege to meet Trey’s wife and kids. It was a great day for everyone that included a delicious meal in Crozet Hall for lunch. Let me tell you, that place has changed since we were last there! I’d encourage anyone who is within reasonable range of VMI to bring their kids to Legacy Day at some point. It’s a fun day for the kids, wellorganized by cadets, and is fun for us, as well, as there was a gaggle of fellow alumni from classes within close range of ours.

Since the last set of notes, I’ve been able to catch up with Steve Nakazawa and his girlfriend, Laura, in early April. We were in D.C.

with the boys at a Nationals game Steve and Laura were attending. Steve and Laura were doing well; they’re regulars at Nats games. We got up to a VMI baseball game in late March and saw the new turf field. What a great venue

Class of 2003: Nick Work (left) with Chaz Wagner at Nick’s promotion to master chief in May 2024.

Class of 2003: Chaz Wagner and John Sakaleros ’05 in Greece in July 2024.

Class of 2003: Attending Chaz and Briana Wagner’s wedding May 18, 2024, are (from left) Nick Work, Drew Murphy, John Bocek, Steve Johnson, Chaz, Briana, Lukas Bartosiewicz ’01, Chris Drinkwater, and Steve Nakazawa.

to watch a ballgame! I’ve been I contact with Matt Brady whose son, Luke, has decided to attend Auburn in the fall and has ambitions to be a part of the Air Force ROTC program there at Auburn. I’m not sure what other BRs may have sons or daughters graduating in the next few weeks and going off to college or starting careers or trades, but what an exciting time it is for those families!

Class Notes

Nick Shallcross sent me an update that he assumed responsibility as the senior Army adviser and service representative at the Naval Postgraduate School back in October ’23. He also reported that both he and Drew Marsh had been selected to be promoted to colonel, as well as Jason Quash ’04 and Tim Price ’04. Congratulations to both Nick and Drew! Pat Scharrer and I traded some messages in late March. He’s doing well and continues to be an international man of mystery!

Well, BRs, that’s it for this set of notes. I hope everyone has a safe and fun summer. Please send me updates and pictures! Until the next set of notes, rah Virginia Mil, ’03, ’03, ’03!

So, I thought I’d sent this in back in May to be in the August AR, but I inadvertently attached the previous set of notes I’d done, and they got published again. So, the above notes is me playing catch up for what you should have read in August. SMH, I guess that’s what I get for doing these at the midnight hour! Now, onto the current set of notes.

Brother rats, as I write this set of notes, I’m sitting in my truck while my youngest is at baseball practice. I’m sure this type of thing is something many of you can identify with these days, as so many of us have kids that are participating in various activities. It’s halfway through August, and a fresh set of young people are getting ready to sign the book and matriculate next week at VMI, one of those being Sam Newsome’s son. Twenty-five years ago, that was us! We have several other BRs who are sending their kids off to college for the first time. Matt and Heather Brady’s son Luke is headed down to Auburn, while Bryan and Andrea Wacker’s oldest daughter, Kylie, will be headed to JMU. It’s hard to believe our oldest, Savannah, will be a junior at JMU this fall. The start to school also signals the beginning of football season, and I hope to see some of you at the Institute for a game this fall.

Chaz Wagner has had a busy summer! Chaz got married to Briana Nelson May 18. In attendance at the wedding was Nick Work, Drew Murphy, John Bocek, Steve Johnson, Chris Drinkwater, and Steve Nakazawa. Chaz and Briana went to Greece for their honeymoon in July, and while there, Chaz caught up with John Sakaleros ’05. Chaz also was able to catch up with Ed Donohue in Boston, Massachusetts, for an O.A.R. concert, saw Nick Work get frocked master chief (congratulations, Nick!), met up with Drew Murphy again in June, as well Derek Brown, Steve Nakazawa, and Erik Figueroa. Chaz always makes it a point to send

me a photo when he catches up with BRs, and I truly appreciate him doing so. I’m not sure how Chaz had time to actually work over the summer based on all of the traveling it seems like he did!

John Roche graduated from the Army War College in June and moved to Roanoke. He was looking forward to catching up with Tom Sheedy. Phil Harris reached out and shared an awesome article about how he and his daughter, Kennedy, both qualified for the USA Snowboard & Freeski Association nationals earlier this year. Kennedy is 7 years old and has been skiing since she was 2. Kennedy ending up placing seventh overall in rail jam and 12th in slopestyle. Phil took home a bronze medal in ski cross. Phil and Kennedy have already made it a goal to qualify for nationals again next year in their quest for gold!

I’ve spoken with Willie Hale, and he is doing well, as is his family. Willie took over the family pharmacy a couple of years ago, and they are getting ready to open their fourth location. I’ve spoken or texted with Kyle Haire, Lara Chambers, and Steve Nakazawa over the last few months, and all of them are doing well. I had the privilege to catch up with Eddie Lewis ’02 in early August. He flew back to Virginia to see Beau Mason ’00 take over command at Fort Barfoot (previously Fort Pickett). From the looks of the posts BRs have made on Facebook, it appears it’s been a busy summer for our class.

Well, BRs, that’s it for this set of notes. Please send me your updates or photos. You can email or text them to me; either way is appreciated. Until next time, rah Virginia Mil, ’03, ’03, ’03!

Scott E. Campbell

In July, Jonathan Saburn reported to the U.S. Naval Academy as the deputy director of Naval Academy sailing.

If you happen to pass through Belgium, Maja Čavlović is now stationed in Bruxelles and offering Belgian waffles for anyone in the area!

Matt Cage is stationed at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii, as the orthopaedic surgery residency program director. Will Carlton ’09 is the chief of neurosurgery at Tripler.

Dan Hall is the most recent BR to retire from

Class of 2003: Chaz Wagner and Ed Donohue at an O.A.R. concert in Boston, Massachusetts, in July 2024.

Class of 2003: Phil Harris and his daughter, Kennedy, riding the ski lift at Copper Mountain in Colorado during the USASA Nationals in 2024.

Class of 2004: U.S. Army Lt. Col. Matt Cage, D.O., orthopedic surgery residency program director, and U.S. Army Maj. Will Carlton ’09, M.D., chief of neurosurgery, at Tripler Army Medical Center in Honolulu, Hawaii.

the military. He finished up with the Air Force this summer. Josh Wright was able to attend the retirement ceremony. Dan noted that Josh also commissioned him. Dan and his family were also honored on the field at Fenway Park. He’ll be working in an Air Force civilian role at Hanscom Air Force Base, Massachusetts.

Ross Garnett is still hanging out at Camp Johnson, North Carolina. He’ll continue running the U.S. Marine Corps Ground Supply School and may be visiting the “I” for a football game or two. Tamara Ferguson is on the opposite end of the retirement spectrum! She writes, “I’m excited to let everyone know I’m opening an acupuncture practice in Columbia, Maryland. So, if you or anyone you know in the area is looking for some support with physical or emotional pain or discomfort, stress, immune support, etc., I’d be delighted to help. You can check me out at thrivevibesacu.com.”

In other news, after a list of entry-level training programs going back to the Rat Line, I find myself back in one more training pipeline. Henrico Fire Department is putting together an academy class that will start in January. I threw my hat into the ring in May and passed the Candidate Physical Aptitude Test Aug. 1. Big feet and narrow moving stairs do not go well together! We’ll see where this goes.

Scott Campbell

2005

Tom Hardinge

Timothy Johnson

Greetings, Brother Rats, Brace yourself, lads; another busy holiday season quickly approaches! After the novellength class notes entry in August (the longest non-reunion year entry I’ve written!), I have just few quick updates to share with you this quarter. I also have a few belated entries that didn’t quite make it into the last publication ... many apologies if you were looking and did not see your submissions.

Gerrid Gall relinquished command of Marine Heavy Helicopter Training Squadron 302 in MCAS New River, North Carolina, June 6. Donnie Barbaree and Jon Vaughn were in attendance for the ceremony. Donnie also relinquished command the following week and is up in D.C. now at National War College. Gerrid has since moved to Carlisle, Pennsylvania, with his family to attend U.S. Army War College, where Joe Matkins ’03 is also attending. Unfortunately, Gerrid must miss our upcoming reunion due to a school event the same weekend, so we’ll need to make sure we pour one out for him!

Derek Rankin was recently informed of his selection for colonel in the Air Force, finding out just after he returned stateside with his family following his NATO deployment in Italy. Derek is currently living in Vienna, Virginia, and attending the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security at the National Defense University. Derek is very much looking forward to attending football games on post after being out of the country the past few years. Congrats, Derek!

Our last bit of promotional news comes from Gabriela Arraiz, who assumed battalion command of the 5th

Class of 2004: U.S. Navy Cmdr. Josh Wright (left) and U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Dan Hall at Dan’s retirement ceremony in June 2024.

Class of 2004: On the occasion of his retirement from the Air Force, Lt. Col. Dan Hall and his family were recognized during a Red Sox game at Fenway Park in Boston, Massachusetts, June 12, 2024.

2006

Will Collier

Armor Brigade last year. Gabriela is stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas, so if you’re in the area, make sure you say hi.

In the “BRs hanging out with BRs” department, I have a few photos to share with you all. Adam Rouse and Logan Manning hanging out on post at Brodie-fest (see August 2024 entry) this past spring, and then this author with Shore Stokes in August enjoying some patio beers at a local craft brewery in Des Moines. We love to see it!

Finally (and perhaps most importantly), here is another reminder that our 20th Reunion is fast

approaching; April 25–26, 2025, will be here before you know it. Please stay tuned to this space, our class Facebook page, and your email inboxes (please check your spam folders and whitelist me and the VMI Alumni Agencies) for additional information. The schedule of events is baked, locations are reserved, and vendors are being finalized for what is sure to be an exciting weekend back on post. Keep your eyes open for registration sign-ups after the first of the year.

As always, stay safe and be well.

Rah Virginia Mil, Tom Hardinge

Class of 2006: Frank Dolberry and his wife, Michelle, with their daughter, Madison Emory, born June 17, 2024.

Class of 2005: Adam Rouse and Logan Manning on North Post in spring 2024.

Class of 2005: Gabriela Arraiz’s 5th Armored Brigade command photo.

Class of 2005: Donnie Barbaree, Gerrid Gall, and Jon Vaughn at Gerrid’s relinquishment of command ceremony.

Class of 2005: Tom Hardinge and Shore Stokes.

Brother Rats of the Epic Class of 2006,

Chris Eaton leads off with the big news that he is now the VMI Alumni Association West Coast Florida –Tampa Chapter president. His first function was a rat send-off Aug. 10, 2024. If you are in the Tampa area, let Chris know so that he can keep you posted on upcoming alumni events in the area.

Jeff Sale reported that “in the spring, we wrapped up our 10th season of youth wrestling (K-8) at my old high school, Thomas A. Edison in Alexandria, Virginia, which has been a blast to coach. June started off with a little 40th birthday party, so now I’m old. Then our family headed down to Charleston to spend a couple days with my old high school wrestling co-captain, Sam Alvarenga, and his family, which was incredible. From there, we hopped over to Hilton Head Island for a weeklong family reunion where 37 of us gathered; it’s beautiful down there. After a short pit stop back home, we headed up to Long Island where we spent a couple days with my youngest sister and her family, then shot up to Mount Desert Island, where we spent

a week with my wife’s family. The water was a little colder than Hilton Head. Love y’all!”

Andrew Neckman and his wife, Sari, and their three boys recently moved from Connecticut to Wichita, Kansas. If you are in the Wichita area, give Drew a call.

Lee Cook, and his new fiancée, Lauren, are living in Stuart, Florida. Lee and Lauren work for the Pocket Yacht company. If you are in the market for a boat, Lee is your guy.

Todd Wilson and Will Collier attended a company event at Top Golf in Rockville, Maryland, in July. Todd and Will work for K2 Construction Consulting. Todd is K2’s director of government operating solutions, and Will is the company contracts manager.

Frank Dolberry and his bride, Michelle Cutts-Dolberry, are in Woodbridge, Virginia, working in the D.C. area. Their tribe just got bigger with the arrival of a new baby girl, Madison Emory Cutts-Dolberry (born June 17, 9 pounds, 5 ounces). The Dolberrys will be heading to Fort Cavazos, Texas, in summer 2025.

As always, please keep sending me

Class of 2006: Nate Parsons and Justin Guy ’03 at the airport in Omaha, Nebraska.

Class of 2006: Nate Parsons and Garth Williams in Washington, D.C.

Class of 2006: Andrew Upshaw participates in the D-Day 80 Ceremonies in Normandy, France. Andrew was able to jump with the paratroopers based out of Sainte-Mère-Église.

Class of 2006: Celebrating Jeff Sale’s birthday in spring 2024 are Adam Sellwood ’08, Jeff, Ryan Steptoe ’07, Todd Wilson, and Brian Peeler ’08.

your pictures and notes on your status. We want to know what you are doing, brother rats!

Your BR, Will

2007

Laura (Hash) Chancellor

Whitney Matthews

Brother Rats,

I hope that these notes find you all well. We are in the midst of the holiday season, and I wish each of you happy holidays!

Big news for the Class of ’07 with Jamaal Walton returning to post as the athletic director for VMI! I think we all know that the future of VMI sports is now in excellent hands! Congratulations, Jamaal!

Andrew Timpner writes that he and Pat Mango met up in Newport, Rhode Island, in May. Pat was in town for a school en route from his current assignment in Naples, Italy, to a Strike Group job in Norfolk, Virginia. I was at a different school on the same base en route to USS Farragut in Mayport, Florida.

Mat “Smalls” Williams says, “What’s up, everybody! I’ve only got a quick update—my kids have become regulars at the annual Legacy Day festivities on post, and it’s an event I highly recommend for anyone who can attend. Lana, who is somehow almost 10 now, was racing with intensity through the low crawl, and Fiona, who is amazingly almost 5, explained proper fitment of uniforms to one of the cadet volunteers. Oh, and Legacy Day is also a great chance to catch up with people you may not have seen in a very long time—case in point running into Jason Quash ’04!”

Jeff Hamilton and Ray Mattia were able to link up with their families at the Crayola Experience in Easton,

Pennsylvania, while Jeff was on his way back to Norfolk after spending some time with his in-laws in upstate New York.

Scott Lutterbie has moved to a town called Newnan, Georgia (south of Atlanta). He is the new middle school principal of a school there. Congratulations, Scott!

Mira Veis writes that Eri McMullen and Rob McMullen ’10 came to D.C. for a quick hello on their way to Roanoke. They were accompanied by their daughters, Emily and Leina. Mira and her family met up with them to tour around some of the monuments and museums.

VMI alumni had an event at Nationals Stadium where ’07 had a great turnout: Mira Veis, Drew Wade with his son, Josh Prible, and Eric Harley attended the baseball game. An awesome Nats/VMI jersey was included in tickets, and it was nice to catch up with everyone!

Thitipan Durasavin was promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Marine Corps Aug. 1, 2024, at the Headquarters, U.S. Army Europe and Africa, in Wiesbaden, Germany, by Army Lt. Col. Frank Jackson III ’00 Brant Priest writes that he and I are “officially for real” neighbors now, as he recently bought a house at the Point (Gloucester Point, Virginia). He’s willing to provide room and board for anyone who wants to help with renovations! He was able to spend some time with Ryan Steptoe discussing how to save the wetlands and shooting skeet at a very “high speed” Ducks Unlimited workshop he put on.

I continue my work as cofounder and chief culinary officer at Taste Supply alongside George Inge ’91 and Guy Conte ’75. We launched our website in March 2024 and are growing steadily.

Jenifer Farkas promoted to lieutenant colonel in the Space Force in June 2024! Congratulations, Jenifer!

Erin Hottle writes that she finished her command at Fort Jackson in the Military Entrance Processing Station in Columbia, South Carolina, and moved to Alabama for her next command. Deuntay Diggs is starting his doctoral studies in criminal justice leadership and transatlantic human trafficking.

Justin Chetney writes he started a new job at Excel Truck Group as the used truck salesman.

Class of 2007: Jon Pool and his son, Tommy, with Tom Goehring and his daughter, Rosie, in Cocoa Beach, Florida, in June 2024.

Class of 2007: Matthew Williams (left) and Jason Quash ’04 at Legacy Day in April 2024.

Class of 2007: Mira Veis, Eric Harley, and Josh Prible at VMI’s Night with the Washington Nationals in July 2024.

Tyler Freeman writes he and his family met the U.S. ambassador during a ceremony at the embassy in Tokyo during a trip to Japan as part of the College of William & Mary and U.S. State Department U.S.-Japan baseball diplomacy project. During the visit, Colt and his team played exhibition games against youth all-star teams from Kamakura, Japan.

Our class did have some sad news in July 2024 when we learned of the passing of Manuel “Cabby” Caballero’s wife, Erica. It was shocking news to receive. In a time of such great tragedy, the class stepped into action in true brother rat fashion. Our class organized donations to be sent to Cabby and arranged for flowers to be sent to the funeral along with a card that read, “In death, as in life, we stand by your side as family. Our deepest condolences for your loss.”

Several brother rats rearranged their schedules to be at the funeral: Robert Russman, Dustin Schultz, Dana Daly, Matt Schreibfeder, and Deuntay Diggs flew to Houston to support Cabby during this difficult time. The Houston Chapter was also extremely helpful; thank you to John Grinder ’04 and Rody Grant ’94 for their support.

Life is extremely busy, and we are all pulled in so many different directions.

In times of celebration and sadness, your BRs are there to support you—sometimes, I think we forget that. Cabby asked me to say, “Thank you,” to everyone for the love and support that was sent his way. He needed us, and we were there for him, as we will be for all our brother rats.

Enjoy the holiday season with your family, friends, and loved ones. Happy New Year, and may 2025 be a wonderful year for each of you.

In the Bonds, Whitney Matthews

Brother Rats, I wanted to start by congratulating our own, as Maj. Andrew Czaplicki has taken command of the Virginia National Guard’s Petersburg-based

276th Engineer Battalion, 39th Regional Support Group, July 20, 2024, at Fort Barfoot. Similarly, our very own Lt. Col. Katherine (Bopp) Kuc took command of the 86th Force Support Squadron at Ramstein Air Force Base. Katie recently relinquished command at Laughlin Air Force Base of the 81st Force Support Squadron. Congrats, Katie and Andrew!

The Hill family has grown. Kevin Hill with wife, Lauren, added a daughter, Claire Elizabeth, June 7, 2024. Claire tipped the scale at 7-anda-half pounds and 20 inches. Her older brothers are happy to have her in the family. Congrats to the Hills.

Matt Mitchell and his family have relocated from Hershey to Kansas for another stint at Fort Leavenworth. We had a chance to celebrate a birthday on the eve of their departure out west. We certainly will miss them.

Lauren and I had the pleasure of hosting the Central Keystone rat send-off earlier this month. We had present alumni from the Class of 1968 through 2nd Class cadets about to receive their rings in just a few short months. We were excited to send off two rats from our local area.

I have plenty of tumblers from the 10th and 15th Reunions sitting in my basement, along with patches, shot glasses, and challenge coins. If you would like to purchase any, please send me an email. You can send notes for the Alumni Review any time to classagent08@gmail.com.

2009

Brother Rats:

I hope this edition this of the Review finds you and your families well. It has been a crazy few months gearing up for the 15th Reunion. If you are reading this, we will have already had the reunion. I hope everyone had a great time who was able to make it out.

I got an email from Jonathan Kim. He said that after a year of unaccompanied tour in Diego Garcia, he was finally able to get back together

Class of 2007: Ray Mattia and Jeff Hamilton at the Crayola Experience in Easton, Pennsylvania.

2008

Robert Hill

Class of 2007: Erin Hottle’s change of command ceremony at Fort Jackson, South Carolina.

Bradley Simpson

with his family, and they have just moved out to Yokosuka, Japan. He is currently the assistant operations officer at NAVFAC Far East. Before he left Diego Garcia, he was able to meet with James Shambley ’05. Shambley was transferring onto the island before he left.

I got to spend some time with Pete Saragnese and his wife, Arianne, in Gamecock country. I randomly sent him a message on my way down to Columbia, South Carolina, for a soccer match. It just so happened that he was going to the same match. Got to sit with his family and enjoy my Liverpool Redmen beat up on Patrick Pillow’s Manchester United Red Devils. It was a good time, even though the weather wasn’t the

class. It’s always great to hear what everyone is doing. Until next time, stay classy, 2009!

David Messina

Chris Dommert

greatest at the beginning of the match. Vincent Abruzzese and wife Julie wanted to announce the birth of their daughter, Victoria Laurel Abruzzese, born Aug. 1, 2024. She weighed 7 pounds, 6 ounces. They are also PCS’ing from Mountain Home Air Force Base to Maxwell Air Force Base in June. He will be an instructor at the Air Force JAG school teaching operations and international law. Looking forward to the assignment but not the Alabama humidity! If anyone’s ever at Maxwell, feel free to hit him up.

Well, that about does it for this edition. I hope everyone is doing well and out doing amazing things. Please keep me posted on the goings-on of the

Total beginner mistake: I didn’t realize the last edition wasn’t due to get mailed until we were halfway through summer. With that said, I hope everyone had an outstanding summer. I know I did. I just got back from a week vacation at Lake Anna. There were seven adults and eight kids (ages ranging for 3 months to 11 years old) running around, so it was a blast getting to see their excitement at all the activities we did.

I managed to run into Lance Hindle quite a few times this past quarter. We were both randomly at Johns Hopkins University at the same time and were able to grab lunch together. A few weeks later, my daughter, Eleanor, and I drove up to Maryland to a big Fourth of July celebration his family throws each year. It was a really good time getting to spend the afternoon with Lance and his family. Both our daughters are Ellie, and they became friends pretty quick. Lance was down in the Hampton Roads area

Class of 2009: Jonathan Kim with James Shambley ’05 at Diego Garcia.

Class of 2009: Bradley Simpson and Pete Saragnese attend the Liverpool versus Manchester United soccer match at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina.

Class of 2009: Victoria Abruzzese, daughter of Vince and Julie Abruzzese, was born Aug. 1, 2024.

Class of 2009: Vince Abruzzese and his wife, Julie, with their newborn daughter, Victoria.

Class of 2009: Bradley Simpson with Pete Saragnese and his wife, Arianne, at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia, South Carolina for the Liverpool versus Manchester United soccer match.

for reserve duty a few weeks later, and he and I got together for some BBQ and drinks while he was in town. Lance is keeping himself busy between work, playing some adult league lacrosse, coaching lacrosse and wrestling, and some involvement with the Scouts.

I caught up with Eddie Preisser, who just moved back from Fort Novosel in Alabama to Fort Bliss at the far end of Texas. He went from working as an artillery instructor at Fort Novosel to now helping to get National Guard units ready to deploy and helping them when they return from deployment. I asked if it was like trying to get rats ready for their first FTX, but he hasn’t been in the position long enough to comment. The Army extended Eddie’s contract, and he’ll be active duty until at least 2027. He was married back in 2013 and has three kiddos running around.

I got a short update from Mike Sundbeck He is living in Ashland, on the outskirts of Richmond, and is the regional sales manager for O’Reilly Auto Parts through most of Virginia, Maryland, and West Virginia.

John Shirkey is also working with auto parts, though he is working for Advance Auto and living in Chesapeake. He was married in 2020 and has been enjoying the dual income, no kids lifestyle. He and I agreed that we live too close to not have seen each other since graduation and plan to get up for some wings and drinks sometime soon.

Chris Zarycki is still working for NAVAIR up at Lakehurst in New Jersey, who he’s been with now for 15 years! He’s living in a nice beach town and still paddles out to surf every chance he can get. He mentioned being down in Norfolk every so often, so hopefully we can meet up next time he’s in town.

Tyler Suttenfield is living the farm life in the Chester area of Virginia. He raises cattle, goats, geese, and chickens on top of his full-time job as the director for Shoosmith Construction.

Dominik Wermus is also living in the Virginia area still; he is still in the Navy Reserve and works at the Pentagon getting to do some pretty neat stuff with autonomy on different platforms. He has been married 10 years now and has two kiddos (ages 6 and 2). I get to travel up to the D.C. areas semi-frequently for work and hope to be able to catch up with him next time I’m in that area. If anyone else is in the D.C. area, let me know! I’d love to get a group together to meet up for dinner one night.

Chris Dommert and I briefly saw each other recently; he was in the Newport News area with his daughter going to a mermaid festival

and dropped by the house for a quick stop. He is doing well, married with three kiddos. He recently started a new job which sounds to have a much better team environment.

It’s crazy to me as I talk to more of our BRs on a regular basis just how many of them are doing big things and really making an impact in the world!

Just a note of admin as I finish up: Our 15th Reunion is coming up. I’ve not heard any details yet from the Alumni Agencies, but if you’re interested in helping to organize/coordinate details when the time comes, please let me know!

2011

Thomas H. Pace

2011,

Steve Duke, Will Walker, Tom McDavid, Jason Cobb, Chad Lawson, Jeremy Lucier, Eric Church, and Allen McCown dominated the VMI Club of Richmond skeet shoot. They wanted to give a big thank you to BR Caleb Boyer and Providence Hill Real Estate for sponsoring the event.

John Manning wanted to share, “My family and I are doing well. I’ve been working as a contractor in DOD for just over 5 years; my office is at the Pentagon. I run into Travis Miller now and again, who’s also at the five-sides. I was able to make it to Ed Park’s funeral July 13.It was a touching service to bid farewell to our BR. Fellow BRs who made it: Nic Chang, John Digan, Travis Miller, Trent Gordon, and Jamie Gordon. Text the BR you’re thinking of today—don’t hesitate, just do it. Love you guys and gals.”

Even with those well wishes, Jon Twigg wants to remind the class that it was John Manning who broke the fourth stoop microwave 4th Class year.

Ronnie and Zipporah Ellsworth moved to Brooklyn for a year for his fellowship with Morgan Stanley.

Ryan the Bueldozer’s paper mâché rifle is now officially in the VMI Museum, setting the standard for 1st Class privates for classes to come.

Big congrats to Matthew M. Talbott, a civil and environmental engineering major from Richmond, Virigina, on the birth of his second

boy. He’s giving all of us girl dads a hard time. Congratulations to Roland Richardson, who recently got engaged.

Lastly some sad news: Ed Park passed away June 19. He was a great BR and served after VMI in the Marines as a logistics officer.

Slemp Lives,

Tom Pace

2012

Bruce Howard

Brother Rats,

I hope this edition of the Review finds you and your families well. Here are updates from some of the members of our class, so I hope you enjoy.

Brandon Butler recently moved out of Fairfax/Washington, D.C., area, which he is grateful for, and now resides in Stephenson, Virginia. Brandon just missed the Shenandoah Valley too much and was called back to the area! Congrats on the move and hope you all settle in well. Joel Chapman and his family have moved to Hawaii as of June. They are still settling in, but it sounds like his sons are adjusting to the numerous outdoor activities. Between the beaches and mountains, it seems like Hawaii wouldn’t be a bad place to raise a family. Joel also mentioned he took part in the Bellows 12K Ruck Race and was able to cross the finish line in one

Class of 2012: Joel Chapman and Shane Perry in Hawaii.

piece, so we’ll count that as a success! It’s great to see that Joel and Shane Perry were able to catch up in Waikiki.

Speaking of Hawaii, Drew Stahling and his family spent vacation there this past August. The Stahlings were visiting family, and based on all the pictures he sent, it looked like they had a great time.

Congrats to Wayne Whiting and his wife, Holli, on the birth of their third child. Their daughter, Kai, was born this past June, and from what I hear is a great baby other than the fact she won’t let her parents sleep. I guess when you have three under 3, sleep becomes more of a luxury. Happy to hear the entire Whiting family is doing well.

Finally, congrats to Stephen Davis and his wife, Amanda, on the birth of their son. I’m happy to hear you are all doing well and wish you the best on this adventure called parenthood.

I greatly appreciate all those who sent information to share with the class. I look forward to hearing from more of you before the next edition. Take care and until next time!

In the Bonds, Bruce

Rob&AnnieMarieIncontro

Michael Scaplehorn

Class of 2013: Dr. Samantha “Sami” Conde-Area and her husband, Scott Area, following Sami’s graduation at the Charleston Area Medical Center in Charleston, West Virginia.

of 2013: U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Nickolas “Nick” Richardson (center) with his fiancée, Kelsey Schulteis (left), and Tiffany Schulteis (right) at his promotion ceremony in Fresno, California, June 30, 2024.

Brother Rats,

As summer comes to an end, kids go back to school, and the holidays start coming up, we hope you and your families are doing well. As always, thank you for sending us your updates!

Here we go! We received an update from Frank and Caroline (Heltzel) Overstreet that they welcomed their first child, baby David Ross, in September 2023. Since then, Frank has completed his broadening assignment at the Engineer Research and Development Center in Vicksburg, Mississippi, and then PCS’d to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, to attend the 2024–25 Command and General Staff Officers’ Course, where they have already connected with several VMI alumni. They plan to PCS again next

Class of 2013: U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Briana “Brie” (Hogan) Alman and her husband, Pat Alman, at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, following Brie’s graduation.

summer, location to be determined, where Frank will begin his new assignment serving as an acquisitions officer for the Army. A long overdue congratulations to Frank and Caroline on their sweet baby! David, we are so glad you’re here!

On June 14, 2024, LCDR Briana “Brie” (Hogan) Alman graduated from the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island, with a Master of

Class of 2013: U.S. Army Maj. Andrew “Drew” Epps and his family following his promotion at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, June 18, 2024.

Pictured are (from left) Kaitlyn, McKenna, Kace, Giselle, and Drew.

Class

Arts degree in defense and strategic studies and an area of study in leadership and ethics. She is currently in the Navy Reserve assigned under Officer Training Command, Newport, Rhode Island. Brie is also going through a Master of Science degree in occupational therapy program at Salem State University. She plans to bring her specialty in leadership and ethics to community-based occupational therapy once she graduates in 2026.

On June 15, 2024, Dr. Samantha “Sami” Conde-Area graduated from her residency, where she served as the chief resident at her program. In addition to graduating, she received a national award of the Resident Recognition Award from the American Psychiatric Association. She also obtained two other awards: The Program Advocacy Award, which is awarded to the individual who exhibits dedication to provide the best environment for residency training and patient care, and an award presented to the senior resident who consistently delivers comprehensive patient care across inpatient, outpatient, and consultation-liaison settings. At the start of July, Dr. Conde began a fellowship to sub-specialize in forensic psychiatry at the University of South Carolina.

I want to thank everyone who came out to our 10th Reunion this fall. It was so much fun and truly wonderful seeing so many of y’all and catching up with y’all. Hopefully you all had as much fun at the reunion as I did. Honestly, I wish we could try to do an annual meet up each year; 5 years just seems like it is too long. My crazy mind is already racing a mile a minute with ideas for mini reunions and our 15th. I’ll share more notes from the reunion in the next edition of class notes, so stay tuned. Anyway, onto the fun class notes and BR updates! Shortly after submitting the class notes back in mid-May, I got an update from Carly (Day) Anderson Carly attended the annual Aerospace Medical Association in Chicago this year and managed to collect her second astronaut card with Serena Aunon-Chancellor. Carly seems to hop around jobs from NFO to aerospace physiologist. Regardless, she is soaring in her Navy career! Keep up, Carly!

Brie and Sami, congratulations to you both on your recent graduations, and we wish you all the best as you continue in your schooling. We can’t wait to see where you both end up!

On June 18, 2024, Andrew “Drew” Epps was promoted to major in the United States Army. His daughters did an amazing job with his epaulets. Drew is currently stationed at Fort Liberty, North Carolina.

On June 30, 2024, Nickolas “Nick” Richardson was promoted to major of Marines. He is currently assigned as a forward air controller with 3rd Air Naval Gunfire Liaison Company out of Bell, California. Congratulations to you both, Drew and Nick!

On June 7, 2024, Alexander “Alex” and London Erber welcomed their first child, baby Cody Gerard. They moved to the Upper Peninsula of Michigan following Alex’s career with HDR designing power transmission line structures. He recently obtained his professional engineering license in the state of Michigan. He and Ryan Eldridge coincidentally ended up in the same town and have maintained the brother rat spirit getting

together during the icy Northern Michigan winters. Congratulations to Alex and London on their new addition and welcome, Cody!

2014

Johnny Partin

Samuel Guidry

I hope these notes find you in good health, having a great week, and enjoying the autumn season. I don’t know about y’all, but this summer flew right on by for me. Between work, cutting grass, running races, and doing some home renovations, it just seemed like, wow, summer is over with. My goodness, does time just fly on by.

L.J. Martin recently got promoted to major in the Air Force. Had to share this cute picture of him and his wife at the promotion ceremony. Way too adorable to pass up. Continue with noble emulation, L.J. The Air Force needs more good leaders like you!

I got an update on Brandon Zembles. Brandon got out to the Army back in September 2023. He served as the company commander for a unit while deployed in Poland. He completed his master’s degree in water resources engineering from Missouri S&T in December 2023 and started working for the Cherokee Water District in Colorado Springs as their water resource engineer. This was a great passion of his since he went on a VMI Engineers Without Borders mission trip to Bolivia, led by Lt. Col. Tim Moore ’97. Brandon married his Ring Figure date. He and Lacey have almost been married for 10 years and have two beautiful daughters, Bryleigh and Bryn.

At the end of May, I was killing time on Facebook waiting for my food to digest so I could go for a fun run. I saw on my news feed where Micah Hosler and his wife got to watch their daughter’s end-of-year preschool program. Great pictures, Micah! Your little girl is growing up so fast. Before you know it, she will be filling out those college applications.

Brother Rats!

Class of 2013: Trae Mann, Dante Morales, and Dean Gonsalves after completing the 50K Highlander Hiking Adventure in Costa Rica Aug. 9, 2024.

On June 2, we had our largest contingent of BRs come out for some triathlon fun in Reston, Virginia. Ben Kier, Eva Edelbrock, Flora Edelbrock, Eric Triassi, Jonathan Reardon, Matthew Reardon, and I dominated in the Reston Sprint Triathlon. We all showed improvement and even set some event PRs. It was a fun event overall. We also ran into Jake MacIntyre ’12 at the race, and he did really well, too. Chris Kittle, who matriculated with us but went to West Point after rat year, was there too cheering his wife on. Unfortunately, we missed seeing him. After the race, we enjoyed a fun brunch at the Red Table, especially watching Flora and Eric enjoy an espresso martini. #classy hahaha!

Over the same weekend, Nick Mari crushed his triathlon in Rock Hall, Maryland! It looks like Nick is setting some great PRs himself. Keep up the good work, Nick!

When I got home after the race, James Devens sent me a message that he was so excited to see more BRs doing triathlons. He was really sorry he couldn’t make it, but he was cheering us on from home. Thanks, James, for all the positive wishes and encouragement! I still want to do a Half Ironman with you one day! Same thing with y’all, Ali Gagnon and Jim Strane. I want to do one with y’all, too! Also at the beginning of June, I saw where Steve States and his wife, Meredith, got to be present for the U.S. Women’s Open. Great pictures, y’all! Wish I could have been there. The weather and scenery looked picturesque.

Over the first weekend in June, Denise and Daniel Oberlander took the kiddies to the Chincoteague and Assateague Islands. They enjoyed seeing the wild ponies, lighthouse, wildlife, and waves at the Assateague Island National Seashore. I loved the pictures, guys!

After getting back to the little City of Hopewell from the Reston trip, I got a message from Nick Warack. Nick is officially an author now. He wrote a book call, “The Sailor & The Porteña.” You can order it online at Amazon. The story is a harrowing tale of people from worlds apart finding who they truly are and where hearts lie when time and peril are on the line.

Ben Kier paid me a visit at Fort Gregg-Adams while on his way to South Carolina. We enjoyed a nice cup of coffee at Starbucks, and I was able to use up my 3-year-old gift card. Couldn’t think of a better time to use it. After Ben departed, he visited Quentin O’Neal in North Carolina. They had a nice catch up in the beautiful Carolina sun.

Shortly after that, Ben Kier was promoted to major. He had a lovely promotion on the Potomac River with the Washington Monument in the background, and 2014 was well-represented there with Trevor Taffola, Kyle Reavis, Joe Kohm, and Jonathan Vignali. Congratulations, Ben! Major today, major general tomorrow!

Also in June, Austin Chien took a trip to Jordan and got to see some amazing historical sites. Around mid-June, I got to catch up briefly

with Zach Wilkinson. Zach is doing great. He and his wife welcomed a beautiful baby boy (Wesley James Wilkinson) into this world April 22.Little Wesley is getting some traveling in. Wesley visited his first beach, brewery, distillery, and seltzer trip (parent chaperone, of course). Hahaha.

At the same time, Andrew La Belle and Josh Vaughn took a flight down to visit Nick Hounshell. While up in the air logging in some miles for flight training, Andrew and Josh flew over ole “Mother I” and snapped a really nice aerial photo of the Institute.

Josh Vaughn got back from a deployment as a forward air controller with the 26th MEU back in March. He is planning on getting out of the military in December of this year. He is planning on switching from military helicopters to civilian commercial planes. Josh, I hope you will fly for Breeze; I love flying with them. Also this past June, Patrick Pizzaro and his wife celebrated 9 years of marriage. Congratulations, guys! Here’s to a lifetime more!

Robert Macias and his wife enjoyed a lovely vacation in Cancun. Clayton Gant and I gave Robert a hard time on Facebook because in all the pictures he isn’t smiling in a single one. Clayton and I are just going to have to continue to work on Robert so he can show off those pearly whites.

Before leaving for my June drill weekend with the National Guard, Jack Dixon and I caught up. His business is booming and growing amazingly. If you are in the Rockingham County or nearby area, you have to try his locally farmed and organically raised meats and products. As a politician, I keep my ear to the ground to stay in the loop on things, and he is getting rave reviews! Keep up the great work, Jack!

During my June drill weekend with the National Guard, Collin Blake and I got to catch up for a bit. I showed him a picture of my new “VMI shoes.” He thought they were sick as heck. So, he asked for the link and bought a pair instantly.

Upon getting home from my guard weekend, Micah Hosler and I got to catch up for a hot minute. He is now a building inspector for Henrico County, and in his free time, he is working on writing some books. I think we may be looking at a future J.K. Rowling!

On July 1, I started a new job (promotion) with the Army Futures Command. I’ll be an operations research engineer/analyst. Ironically, I am working one floor above Justin Vernon in the CASCOM building.

Class of 2014: Pictured at the Reston Sprint Triathlon in Reston, Virginia, in June 2024 are (from left) Jake MacIntyre ’12, Matt Reardon, Jonathan Reardon, Eva Edelbrock, Flora Edelbrock, Eric Triassi, Ben Kier, and Johnny Partin.

I received an update from Andrew Marcotte He is doing really well. He came on board as the vice president for American Pride Automotive in December 2017 after a 3-year career with Target in distribution. He took over the daily operations and officially joined the family business. Since then, the family has grown to six locations, with additional growth on the horizon. They are an automotive service business specializing in mechanical repairs. American Pride has locations spanning from Toano, Virginia, to Yorktown, Virginia. Their most recent acquisition is located right outside of Fort Eustis in Newport News. Their mission statement, which will resonate with everyone here, is, “Service with integrity.” The industry has a terrible reputation, and they are on a mission to change their clients’ perception of the automotive repair industry. They utilize technology to leverage digital inspections, to include pictures and videos of all recommendations, and to ensure their clients are well informed of the status of their vehicles and know they are being treated with respect. Congratulations, Andrew, on your success and the growing family business! Keep up the amazing work!

I had a chance to catch up with Jack Gotwalt and Zach Mills through email and messenger. Both are doing very well. They actually served in the same squadron for about 3 years together. They also did several flights together. The picture of them will be included in the next set of class notes.

Breaking news from Seattle, Washington. Tom Bower was promoted to LCDR in the world’s best Coast Guard. Quite frankly, I am not surprised, because James Devens said that Tom made the Seattle news for his hard work and service. Keep up the fabulous work, Tom!

On July 12, 2024, the 2014 VMI family got a little bit bigger. Zach Stark and his wife, Sarah, welcomed their son, Luke James Stark, into this world. He came in at 8 pounds, 2 ounces. I can already tell this young man is going to make a great future Keydet. Congratulations, Zach and Sarah!

On July 27, Eva Edelbrock, Eric Triassi, myself, and Fielding Quarles ’20 participated in the Kinetic Culpeper Triathlon. Flora Edelbrock and Kyle Reavis served as OK cheerleaders for us ... I noticed they were missing in action when

I came out of the swim transitioning into the bike. Must have been enjoying a nice 7:30 a.m. margarita under the trees. Hahaha, just kidding; they did great! It was a lot of fun catching up with everyone and being a part of Fielding’s first triathlon.

On Aug. 1, I went to the rat send-off for the VMI Club of Richmond. It was great seeing so many old faces. I even got to see one of my ole dykes, Ross “The Boss” Harris ’11. If you aren’t involved in your local chapter, you should

try to get involved and attend a few chapter events. It is a lot of fun, and you’ll be glad you joined!

Wilkes Barber sent me a nice email back in early August. He is doing well and is out of the Army. He said the Army released him for “good behavior.” Soon, he and his wife will be parents. His wife is due in a few weeks (which, by the time you read this, they will be parents). Congratulations, Barber, on your new addition! We have some breaking news from Joey Dassoulas. He went fishing and caught what he believed is the smallest fish ever. I mean, holy smokes, that little thing wouldn’t even swim in a champagne glass. In other news in Joey’s world, he went back to ole “Mother I” and did some filming on traditional firearms. I see he is trying to give Jon Mattingly a run for his money in Hollywood productions. Don’t worry, gents, I think Hollywood could stand to have two fine 2014 Keydets.

I saw on my Facebook feed where James Ethington is getting “swole” at the gym. I’m like, dern, James; slow, down bro, you keep building up that muscle, your biceps are going to burst.

On my feed, I saw where Hannah (Donovan) Stoops took her family to D.C. to visit the Natural History Museum. Hannah, I know I have told you many times, but I am going to say it again. I don’t know how in the world you manage four kids. I think you deserve the super mom of the year award!

Quentin O’Neal and his family just moved to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, where he will be doing CGSC for the next year and knocking out his master’s of operational studies. He also got accepted to Kansas State for their master’s of data analytics, so he will be doing these degrees concurrently. Needless to say, this is going to be a fun year for him. Quentin sent a shoutout for Ben Kier that Ben has an open invitation to BRs and VMI Keydets to his fire pit Friday nights!

Kris Wright had a birthday back in early August. I told him not to party too hard, since the next day was a workday. In classic Kris fashion, his reply was, “Thanks, Johnny! I have three kids now; I don’t know what a party is anymore unless it involves ‘Baby Shark’ or ‘Coco Melon.’”

On Aug. 10, when I sent one of my many, many reminder emails about the reunion registration, Raymond

Class of 2014: Carly (Day) Anderson at the Aerospace Medical Association Annual Scientific Meeting in Chicago, Illinois, in May 2024.

Class of 2014: Billy Cheatham and his wife, Amy, with their newborn son, Theo.

Class Notes

Yam and I exchanged several emails back and forth. He is doing very well. He actually sent me a note to include in our class: “Dear BRs, I have been training as a consular adjudicator as a Mandarin specialist with the Department of State. I have been receiving consular adjudication and onboarding training in Arlington, Virginia, since June 2024. I will be heading to China soon, and I will be adjudicating non-immigrant visas and American Citizen Services while I am abroad. I hope to see as many of you before I leave. I would also like to thank the Institute for teaching me how to be resilient throughout hardship.” We are wishing you safe travels, Raymond, and best wishes in this exciting new adventure.

To round out and finish up the BR updates, Sabina (Montgomery) Crites has had a great year! In December 2023, she had her change of command ceremony for the 1MCTD, 2BDE, 87th TD. In January 2024, she became a small business owner, and she opened up DRIPBaR Fayetteville, specializing in IV therapy and was featured in the Voyage Raleigh Magazine. Also in July 2024, she made below the zone for major and was promoted in August 2024 by Lt. Col. Parker ’04. Congratulations, Sabina! You are crushing it and setting the example for the citizen-soldier VMI philosophy. Keep up the good work!

In closing, remember we are entering into the holiday season, which can be a tough time for friends and family. Please take the time to reach out and check in with your friends and family. Please know if you ever need someone to talk with, I am always available. I hope each and every one of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, and holiday season. With Much BR Love, Johnny “Party” Partin

family, just barely avoiding Tropical Storm Debby. Looking forward to it hopefully cooling off a bit soon. I only got a few notes this quarter but was happy to hear from some BRs we hadn’t heard from in a while.

Charlie Gough and his family PCS’ed to Fort Campbell, Kentucky, this past winter and welcomed their second son, Owen, in May. They are planning to move back to North Carolina next summer.

Matt Nobile is currently an APMS at Marion Military Institute and is awaiting the results of the Major Board. He is almost done serving as an OCT at CST24 and has run into a couple of VMI cadets and cadre alike. He says there “haven’t been any changes to Fort Knox since 2014 ...”

Alex Hastings leaves active duty this August and will be moving to Atlanta to study film and television production at SCAD. He will also be a pilot in the Georgia Army National Guard but is turning in his CPTs bars for warrant officer dots.

Owen Dugger and his fiancée, Jen, are expecting their first child in September.

Joe Broughton and his wife just had their

Keydets!

Hope everyone is well. I’m writing this as I just got back from Sandbridge Beach with my

Class of 2014: Aaron White and his wife, Megan, in Paris, France.

Class of 2014: Conner Mays with his wife, Nichole, and sons, Kellan (2-and-a-half) and Will (2 months). 2015

HenryMeredith

Johnny McDonald

Class of 2015: Joe Broughton with his son, Carter Joseph Broughton, born Aug. 9, 2024.

first child. Baby boy Carter Joseph Broughton was born Aug. 9. Thanks, friends. As always, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Rah Virginia Mil, Henry Meredith

MurphyKerner

HunterMorgan

The Class of 2016 is alive and well. Thanks to all who sent in notes; glad to hear back from people across the U.S. and abroad. There have been many future Keydets to celebrate since the last update. Brandon Fleming wrote in from Fort Riley in Kansas that he and his wife, Dr. Shannon Fleming, just celebrated the birth of their son, Seamus Patrick Fleming,

July 10, 2024. His brother-in-law, U.S. Navy Lt. Ryan Bess ’20, sent a VMI outfit to make sure he is prepared to cheer on the Keydets this fall.

Michaela (Wright) Speas celebrated the birth of her daughter this spring, and wrote in, “On April 10, 2024, my husband, Jon, and I welcomed our daughter, Lucille Irene, into the world. We have plans to apply for her provisional appointment to VMI like her big brother! I also started a new job with the Virginia Department of Transportation in the structure and bridge division. I love seeing and hearing about the next generation our class is giving life to and raising and all the incredible ways our BRs are excelling in life, both big and small. Can’t wait for the next reunion when all of us and our growing families can come together to reconnect and make more memories. God bless!” Congratulations, Michaela; it is crazy to think that our 10th Reunion is 2 years away.

Aidan O’Connor and Mike Piemonte linked up this May in Rome. Class rings were left at home to ensure their safety. Can’t think of a better guy to provide the true Italian experience. I caught up with Alex Guerra, Jamie Tavenner, and Matt Carter this summer

Class of 2016: Michaela (Wright) Speas and her children.

Class of 2016: Brad Hann, Nic Ortiz, Richard Dromerhauser, and Murphy Kerner work together at HITT Contracting Richmond.

Class of 2016: Mike Piemonte and Aidan O’Connor in Rome, Italy, in May 2024.

after Alex returned to the U.S. from traveling through Southeast Asia for the past few months. Alex is heading back to the Netherlands this fall.

If you’re in Richmond this November, the VMI Club of Richmond will hold their annual dinner and casino night Nov. 13. It is always a great time to catch up with BRs before the holiday season; check out their website. There is usually a good showing and a great night of fun. Our very own Meredith Baldasare will also be taking on the honor of serving as next year’s chapter president.

We have a pretty big contingent of ’16 working together at HITT in Richmond now. Our class is taking over, and I have the pleasure of working with Richard Dromerhauser, Nic Ortiz, Brad Hann, and Rob Howard every day. The rest of the team on the construction site always mentions how it is interesting how everyone seems to be from the same class—must have been the best one in barracks, or something like that.

Class Notes

Thanks for everyone who sent in notes; look forward to seeing some of you at a football game this fall.

Michael P. Griffin

These notes cover the period from April 16(ish), 2024–Aug. 15, 2024.

Why such odd dates, you ask? Clearly you haven’t been keeping up with the publication—for shame! That’s OK, we can take a sec and catch you back up, but let’s not let it happen again! Last issue, we left off with Kenton Clingman because I had too many inputs to fit into the allotted five pages. As far as problems go, having too much content ... that’s a good one to have! As such, we left you in suspense for 3 months, hungry to see what else had transpired among the greatest class to walk through the “I” since that of George Marshall ’901. Well, your patience has not gone

unnoticed! For all updates from those I talked to in the second half of last period (April to May), merely read on. Without further ado, the long-awaited conclusion to last issue ... and the entirety of this new quarter, too!

Shortly after talking with Kenton, I messaged a number I believed to be that of Jack Hanks; however, it was actually his father’s. We sorted it all out, though! After getting the right number, I talked with Jack, who is up around D.C. doing intel work for the Navy. As you can imagine, he runs into quite a few VMI alumni in the D.C. area. Jack got married to his (now) wife, Lauren, a while back, who I believe he was dating around the time we were at VMI. Belated congratulations on the wedding! He told me he had a few deployments over the last few years as a naval aviator to the 5th and 7th fleets and is now back home working and beginning a master’s program. If I’m ever up in D.C., I’ll definitely reach out, Jack!

I found Eric Wicks around the same time. He was actually over in Kuwait but was heading to Iraq very soon. We had a short conversation, and I got some updates for the roster, as he was traveling. Thanks much and be safe over there, bro rat!

As we got toward April, I messaged Stephen Gould. Stephen came off active duty about 2 years ago and now does bridge design for a structural engineering firm back in his hometown. I also heard from Brandon Conley that same day. He was prepping for a PCS but was kind enough to send me some contact information for the class roster. Hope the move goes smoothly!

Pat Beegle sent me some updates, as well. He currently works nights at the hospital in his hometown but had a few minutes to chat. Hope things get less busy for you in the near future, man!

Zach Campbell and I talked around the same time. He was actually on vacation in Hawaii (on the big island) at the time. Hope it was a good trip!

I also got some updates for the roster from Alex Diaz this quarter. He and his wife, Hannah, are out in Ashburn, Virginia, these days. I had actually completely forgotten he was in Band Co. Shame on me! Alex was our drum major back in the day, which I definitely should have remembered with Cody Bottoms (a Band Co. drummer) being my roommate! It was great catching up, man! After that, I spoke with Gabe Hammock over in North Carolina. Gabe is still in the Army, currently at Fort Liberty, and runs into a decent number of VMI alumni out there. Look forward to catching up again soon! Shu-Hao Yang reached out on Facebook after that. Yang is now a company commander in the Taiwanese Army. He and Elva recently began construction on a new house. I look forward to seeing the finished product! Hope to visit you there one day, BR! Next, I got a surprise text from Zach Sprinkle He had gotten together with Mike Flora, Preston Roper, Sam Crawford, and David Groseclose in Richmond, Virginia, for a ’17 mini reunion. Thanks for letting me know, man. Glad to hear you all had a nice visit. We included a picture somewhere in our last issue to provide a sufficient alibi, should any of them need it! The next day, I heard from Jake Goulet, who had a few new updates for our class roster. He has been busy lately, causing us to miss each other’s calls/texts for a bit, but it was good to hear from you, Jake! After a similar game of phone tag, Trajan Crocker and I talked, as

Class of 2016: Brandon Fleming and his wife with their newborn son.

well. Trajan is up in Maryland and working over in D.C. as a Navy civilian employee. He tried to entice me into coming over to the “dark side” and leaving active duty, and I have to be honest, it is tempting, but I’ll have to revisit the option when my retention expires in 2 years. He is also newly engaged to his fiancée, Lingli, which is awesome to hear. Congratulations to you both!

Mike Connolly sent me some updates for our roster in early April. We talked briefly, as I believe he was traveling at the time. He and his (now) wife, Jessie, just got married this past summer in Washington (state). Congratulations to you both! Hope you all are enjoying life in the Northwest! The following day, I got a message with updates from Zach Johnson. Zach and his wife, Brianna, both transitioned out of the Army this last year and moved to North Carolina. They seem to be enjoying their new civilian lives and also got a dog a few months ago. Zach now works for National Gypsum, which is headquartered in North Carolina. Looking forward to hearing more about your adventures outside the military!

As we got further into April, I reached out to Emily Marbury, who just got out of the Army this last winter. She moved back to Virginia and is getting set up in her civilian career back near where she grew up. As you can tell from all the notes above this, you have a large network of ’17ers right there in Virginia, so I hope you’ll reach out often! I heard from Ian Hermanns after that. After we graduated, he did a 5-year stint in the Marine Corps before getting out and seeing what the civilian world was like. He now works for Hennings Construction and seems to be enjoying the job! I look forward to hearing more from you and your family in future issues! At this point, I had to take a short break from my onslaught of cold calls since we had an air show here at Maxwell Air Force Base. It was a crazy week and a lot of work, but surprisingly fun to be a part of. Regardless, it isn’t high on my list to do again any time soon. However, I was told that I have another one coming up at my next base in the fall as well. Lucky me.

Mid-April brought many more reconnections for me. The first was a quick update from Hayley Freeman-Johnson. She and her husband have been kept very busy by their two sons but are otherwise quite well! Grant Holmes and I exchanged some messages the same day. He is up in Culpeper, Virginia, these days running a business in residential remodeling. He has been working on growing this business for

quite some time and has been open full time for 2 years now. He expressed that he hopes the rest of the class is doing well and had a few notes to include for the Review. Grant and his wife, Alessandra, recently celebrated their son’s second birthday and estimate that by the time this issue of the Review is released, their daughter will have just turned 1 on VMI graduation day. I think you might see this issue closer to the fall timeline (or maybe even spring 2025 due to our little extension), but we will see how quickly it gets to you! Last February, Grant and Alessandra also celebrated their 4-year anniversary. Congratulations! Next, after a long game of telephone tag, Lukas Snear and I talked this spring. He is now a licensed professional counselor at the Eating Recovery Center, specializing in severe inpatient eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. His wife, Beth, is a licensed clinical social worker at the VA. Lukas told me that they recently moved into their new house in Garland, Texas, to upsize after having their second child, Joellen Ann. Their son, Owen Blaise, recently turned 1 and loves running all over the place in the new house. Apparently, they also found some time to do a den reunion at Snowshoe, West Virginia, with Blaise Boullianne, Thomas Mosher, and Sebastian Chavez. I’m glad to hear you all got together for a visit! I actually think we had a picture or two included in the last issue of the Alumni Review, so if you still have your copy, go back and check it out! If you don’t have your issue, that’s rough; it could be a priceless collectible one day!

Nick Williams and I played a similar game of telephone tag (hey, it’s been a busy spring!) but got a chance to talk more substantially in mid-April. He’s got an upcoming move that has taken a lot of his attention but seems to be doing well out in California. I look forward to hearing more after you get settled in the new place! Keeping to the Delta folks for a sec, I messaged Zach Holland around the same time. Zach is up in Chicago now and actually touched base with Pete Chapin, who moved up there not too long ago! We discussed the VMI brick program a little bit, as a result of the photo I posted on the class Facebook page in April. For those who were not tracking, getting a brick out in front of the barracks was a program VMI ran for a long time, but they stopped it this last year. The Class of ’17 has 17 bricks on the walk, though, so I suppose there is something poetic in that. Tyler Hogge and I talked shortly after that. He got out of the Navy (after 6-and-a-half years as a SEAL officer) back

in December and now works as a mortgage broker in Virginia Beach. While in, he had a deployment to Afghanistan and another to the Northern Arabian Gulf with SEAL Team Five. His last duty station was in Virginia Beach, and I guess he liked the area so much he decided to put down some roots. He called it a “relaxing” change of pace. Evan Huvane and I texted back and forth the following day. He had just finished air assault (which came a bit later in his career due to being stationed at overseas locations that did not support the training). Evan has moved quite a bit in the Army. He graduated, went to Korea, then to TRADOC for a short while before going back to Korea, and finally over to Fort Polk, Louisiana, where he is currently stationed. Evan is now engaged to his fiancée, Michelle, with the wedding set for the November timeframe. Congratulations to you both and glad to have you back here in the States!

Vania Murcia and I also exchanged a few messages this quarter. She told me that the last few years (since graduation) have been quite eventful for her, with a fair number of ups and downs. Overall, she said she’s doing well and has achieved some of the goals she set for herself in that time. She now spends her time getting to know more of the Richmond area with her dog, puppy, and cat. Sounds like a full house! She stays engaged in the local community and wished the best to all of you fine folks reading these notes. Vania extended an open invitation to all our BRs to reach out to her if they ever need someone to talk to or just want to catch up. Devon Kirk and I talked after that. He is another Air Force officer, but out in California, which may be a slight step up from Alabama, but we won’t admit that to him. He was kind enough to share some updates for our class roster and offered to catch up in person if I find myself in SoCal. One day, I hope to take you up on it, bro rat! Somewhere in the same week (time is but a construct), I talked with Jaron John while he was traveling for work. Jaron works for Protos Security now, the company he interned for back in 2016 and worked at part-time through 1st Class year. Starting as a software developer, he now works mostly project management with several teams and helps onboard newly acquired companies. He told me that it’s been pretty smooth sailing since graduation (I’m knocking on wood for you, just to be safe). He and his (now) wife, Hannah, got married back in 2018 and just recently welcomed twin daughters, born across multiple days. He said two newborns is no joke,

but they are getting by, and the girls are doing great, which was awesome to hear. I was unaware, but Jaron’s wife actually went to Radford while we were at VMI. They dated across all 4 years, leading her to tease that she is an honorary BR. The more the merrier, as far as I am concerned! The two (and maybe the kids, too) are looking to make it back to VMI for a long overdue visit to see a football game this fall.

Ben Dalton and I messaged back and forth regarding some roster updates shortly after that. Unfortunately, general business on my part kept the conversation short, but I hope to hear more from your part of the world soon, BR! Kyle Welch and I talked after that. He had reached out way back to give me his contact information, but we just now got to actually updating the roster. Back in July, he bought a fixer-upper and was working on the house and yard through much of 2023 and early 2024. Currently he is stationed in Savannah, Georgia, with the Army, where he and his wife, Jodi, are expecting their second child very soon! Congratulations to you and your family, Kyle! Next, I got a bit of a curve ball when reaching out to Mr. Mike Swinney. VMI accidentally protected his identity better than the witness protection program ever could intentionally. (I lovingly jest, please don’t cut my word count down!) After Mike got over the initial heart attack of me telling him my records didn’t show him graduating from VMI (plot twist, he did graduate ... and on time, too!), he told me that he is still in the Navy and now stationed out in Hawaii. Though that will change soon, as it looks like he is heading to Australia for his next assignment. We talked about some of the changes that have happened at VMI since we graduated and discussed plans for the 10th Reunion. Hope to see you there!

Marvin Burns was next on my list. He has been busy with work but otherwise doing well, having gotten out of the Army back in 2022. I look forward to talking again soon! Seth Hinton and I talked around the same time after a short game of phone tag. He had just left Spring FTX for timber framing when I contacted him. Evidently the Timber Framing Guild gets with VMI every year and builds what Seth described as a “giant pergola.” Glad to see you’re keeping tabs on VMI and

things in the area! It was great catching up. Bailey Huddleston sent me some updates this quarter, as well. She is up in Portland, Oregon, now and works for Nike as a project manager for supply chain projects. On the side, she has gotten into playing ice hockey (which she got started in about 2 years ago). Since then, she cofounded a nonprofit women’s hockey league in the area, which I imagine is a huge workload. Bailey described it as having a second full-time job, and I think that sounds about right! I’m glad to hear you’re living your best life out there, and I look forward to hearing more from you in the future!

I got a hold of Will Cornett in late April. He and his wife, Allison, are currently at Camp Lejeune but PCS’ing to Italy very soon! I hope the move goes smoothly; safe travels out there! Shortly after that, John Gomersall and I got a chance to chat about what’s been going on with him lately. At the time we spoke, he had just changed jobs and bought a new house out in Charlotte. He now works as a senior consultant subcontracts administrator for Booz Allen Hamilton in the intelligence account of their national security sector. I’m glad to hear things are going well up there for you and Goose, bro rat. Keep in touch! I was debating letting Cody Bottoms get a reprieve this quarter but decided against it. Sorry, not sorry (as the kids say). We actually exchanged messages throughout the quarter, but the Army keeps him crazy busy, so our communications are sometimes sporadic. All the same, it’s always good to hear from him and Amanda out in Missouri. In true Army fashion, Cody had been out in the field this quarter. He said it was warm on either side of the camping trip, but it iced and rained during. Shortly after that conversation, he went back into the field again for another short stint. We discussed a few visit/trip options for the late summer/ early fall (once I move and get settled out in Kansas), and I expect we will get a chance to do some of them, possibly even with Matt and Alyssa Johnson! Planning still in the works, but one day you may see some photos here to prove we made it happen!

Ashley McManus sent me a quick message letting me know she made a trip back to VMI this quarter. Apparently, Col. Brodie (Hon) retired, so a few Band members made the pilgrimage to see the ceremony. Ashley told

Class of 2017: Tashalynn and Bryan Wade with their first child, Lynleigh Wade.

Class of 2017: Lynleigh Wade was born July 6, 2024.

me she ran into a few ’17 members, including Thayer Meyer. Shortly thereafter, I got a surprise text from Erik Stein over in Texas. Erik had just gotten back from a deployment in 2023 and shared a few photos with me. I decided to include them in last quarter’s issue so you didn’t have to wait. Why last issue if I knew his notes would most likely be in this issue? Simple: I get five slots for photos in each issue, and I didn’t know how many I would need this quarter. Plus, it allows you, as the reader, to do a little detective work and see if you can find that last issue. We enjoy little puzzles like that; they break up these long narratives you have to read every 3 months! Other updates from Erik were that he had the honor of flying over the Institute last August and got to see the rats experience Hell Week from the air. Not long after that, he and his wife, Kaitlyn (Morrison) Stein ’18, had their first child in January of this year. Congratulations! Once they got established in Texas, Erik was reconnected with Will Connerley ’15, who he went hunting with a few times before Will had to PCS back to Virginia. Kasey Kettle and I reconnected about a week later. She is down in Jacksonville these days and works out of NAS JAX as a Navy helo pilot. However, she has a move coming up soon, taking up the torch in Pensacola to be a helo instructor pilot at Whiting Field. Best of luck out there!

... And just like that, we are current once more! So read on for the new stuff! (As brief as it may be!) This quarter started off with a call to Cody Bottoms out in Missouri. He just recently finished up his job with the training command at Fort Leonard Wood and now has a slightly less chaotic work-life balance. While mapping out my trip to Kansas, I realized I could go a little out of the way and catch up with the roomie for a night before getting on that 300ish mile, single-lane road that leads to Wichita. Looking forward to seeing you and Amanda soon! Hope to get a picture in the next issue! Unfortunately, after coordinating the stop over at Cody’s, I had to take a long break from VMI work to focus on the multitude of PCS requirements and packing. By the time I got another update from a classmate, it was a rather morbid conversation. I was informed that our BR Zach Taylor passed away in early June. I regret I was not able to make contact with him before his passing, but I reached out to his family to wish them condolences from our class. A celebration of life was held shortly after his passing, and there was a post on the class Facebook page to inform any who are not

receiving these notes. In true BR spirit, several classmates reached out to connect with me and others in the wake of his passing and do a wellness check. During this period, I heard from Malcolm Thomas, who had just spoken with Jamie Schmitz and heard the news. Malcolm and I shared a brief conversation about all things VMI and eventually moved into other topics. He has just finished construction on the house and moved in with minor bodily injury inflicted in the process. He still works with Raytheon and seems to enjoy the job and location. I also heard from Seth Hinton around the same time (mid-June). Our conversation was short, but I was glad to hear he is doing well! Shortly after that, I actually heard from Cody Bottoms’ father, Lin, out in Richmond. He checks in on me from time to time to make sure I’m not getting into trouble. After our room got like 30 PTs and a month of confinement as a result of peach-gate, perhaps that is a wise course of action!

Malcolm Thomas actually contacted me again in late June to see if he and Ashley McManus could assist with my efforts to update our contact list. At this point, I would estimate I am about a fourth of the way through it, but current phone numbers are disappearing fast! We made plans to work out a system so they can assist once I get settled in Kansas. Next, I heard from Bryan Wade while I was driving northwest through Arkansas on my way to Wichita. He and his wife welcomed their first child this July! Congratulations to you both! Lynleigh Jeanne Wade was born July 6 and fittingly adorned with VMI paraphernalia within the week. That very evening, I arrived at Cody and Amanda Bottoms’ home in Missouri. It had been quite some time since we had visited, so it was good to see them both and catch up for a day. Amanda has definitely helped Cody furnish his living space into a home, and Cody has adequately prepared her for any and all apocalyptic threats. His new job within the Army seems to offer a little more time for them to get out and enjoy their weekends, too! Glad things are going well and hope to visit again soon! Ryan Asuncion reached out to me after I got settled in Wichita to check in and make sure I hadn’t forgotten about our efforts to plan the 10th Reunion. Right now, my life is comparable to the most intense game of whack-amole, but I’ll build a group chat with those who wanted to help, and we can get after it! Thanks for the reminder! All right, folks, that’s all for now, but there will be more in a few short months! Until then, rah ’17!

2018

Will Woodward

ReaganGoulla

Hello, Brother Rats,

I hope all is well with you all and that you enjoyed your summers with family and friends! Here are some updates for the class.

Garrett Briggs graduated summa cum laude from Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, North Carolina. He received a degree in nursing and also obtained the distinction of being the sole recipient in his class of the Outstanding ABSN (Accelerated Bachelor of Science degree in Nursing) Award.

This past June, Bethany White completed a 2-year residency in pediatric dentistry at Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia. She is now currently working at Commonwealth

Class of 2018: Emmett Thomas Washechek, son of Ben Washechek and his wife, Michele.

Class Notes

Pediatric Dental Specialists in Henrico, Virginia, and teaching kids to keep their teeth clean and go to VMI!

Haley Scott married her best friend and love of her life, Jennifer Veldman, Aug. 1 in Washington state.

Nathan Dugie is currently enrolled in the joint professional military education course provided at naval warfare college.

Overall, the notes are a bit shorter than usual, as I need to hear from you all in order to give out the updates. I generally put out a notice on the class Facebook page about a month out from the due date in order to give some notice. So, keep an eye out there.

Another point I wanted to bring up was a solid goal for our Class Memorial Scholarship. By the time you read this, we should have hit our first milestone of $10,000. Each year, the scholarship pays out roughly 4% of its value in the form of payments to cadets in need. This means we are getting about $400 to cadets per year. To increase this, our next goal is to get to $20,000 by the end of 2025. As of the writing of this, we currently have monthly recurring donations that will get us an additional $5,000 before the timeline ends, so I wanted to put out the call to see who else is willing to donate.

Having identified the cause, I will only say this in asking for support: What value would you put on not just the education, but the comradery that

I have seen so many of you post when you find each other all over the world, and how much do you think others should benefit from that same system? With that said, I am eager to increase my donation to match the first $50 donated on a recurring monthly basis.

I hope all is well with you all.

Rah, ’18.

2019

Nathan D.A. Mumford

AnnikaK.Tice

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 2019.

2020

Alexander Dragan

HollyK.Njabo

Taylor Batte: “I am currently deployed as the SAR detachment for USS WASP with HSC-28 Detachment 4. We fly the MH-60S Knighthawk providing the primary SAR asset for the boat as well as VERTREP, MEDEVAC, PR, SUW, MIO, NEO, and LOG support for the deployment.

“I occasionally run into Josiah Clair (Class of 2020 Rat Line) on the boat even. He graduated from the Academy, and it is great to see him every day. I keep in touch with Zach Shaffer and Skylar Birdie almost every day. Life changes, not anything too crazy other than flying every day and being deployed. Boat life is pretty simple.”

Liat Bell-Kitts: “I earned my Master of Science degree in materials engineering from UVA and currently work as an engineer regarding spent nuclear fuel. Josh and I enjoy traveling and have explored 17 different states and two countries together.”

Bradford: “I’ve started a new career and am

Class of 2018: Will Woodward, Reagan Goulla, Steven Foster, and Andrew Campo attend a VMI networking event at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, Virginia.

Class of 2018: Bethany (White) King completed a 2-year residency in pediatric dentistry at Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia.

an agent in the United States Border Patrol. I can’t share too much about my career except I really enjoy it. Last year, I was on the SWAT team.”

Anah O’Brien: “Life update: I ran the NYC marathon Nov. 5, 2023, and I am training for

the Boston Marathon! My husband, Mitchell, and I went to Portugal for our honeymoon over Christmas, where we got to surf and tour all the old cathedrals in Lagos, Lisbon, and Porto! We also got a chance to visit the St. Jerome’s Monastery in Lisbon. Both my husband and I

fly AH-64E ‘Apaches’ for the Army and are stationed at Fort Campbell. I also got back from a deployment to the Middle East last year. Otherwise, I’m either flying, running, [or] traveling with my husband.”

Aaron Barraclough: “Congratulations to my

Class of 2020: Pictured with U.S. Marine Corps 2nd Lt. Andrew Sekerak at his OCS graduation in March 2024 are (from left) his father, retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer Jerry Sekerak; Andrew; brother, Jake Sekerak ’23; and mother, Fina Sekerak.

Class of 2020: Aaron Barraclough and his wife, Jennie Perkins-Barraclough, at Jennie’s promotion ceremony in the Army Nurse Corps.

Class of 2020: Anah (Bozentka) O’Brien and her husband, Mitchell, on an AH-64E Apache helicopter at Fort Campbell.

Class of 2020: William Bradford is an agent with the U.S. Border Patrol.

beautiful wife, Jennie Perkins, for achieving the rank of captain. I’m glad that my parents were able to come out to Washington state for her big day. She’s an Army nurse at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. The promotion was April 1. She works at Madigan Army Medical Center.”

While acting as the electrical officer and assistant chief engineer during his first deployment onboard the USS Russell, Jonah Eger received his OOD letter and SWO pin, as well as the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and Engineering Officer of the Watch qualification

James Booth completed the U.S. Army Rappel Master Course.

Brooks Coombs completed training at the Hanover Fire Academy and is now a Hanover Firefighter EMT.

In June, Tyren Cloyd received his second MBA at Longwood University.

Cole Buchanan started a new position as project manager at Clark Construction Group.

Ariana Ruffin was accepted into the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine, and Eric Munro obtained CKAD: Certified Kubernetes Application Developer from the Linux Foundation.

In May, Jack Brisno and Tripp Shiflet both got

engaged, and Austin Barrette, Noah Weaver, Daniel Crawford, and Allen Grant all got married.

In June, Samuel Moreira and Devin Roberts both got engaged, and in July, Cooper Duplantis and Seth Whitehurst both got engaged. Also in July, Jack Matteo and Alexandra Duklis were married and had a pretty significant brother rat presence at their wedding. It is always amazing to see how far our brother rat bonds take us in life! Congratulations, all!

A few baby announcements to close us out! In July, Cole McCarty found out he’ll be a dad come March 2025, and Cody Warner and his wife, Hope, welcomed Crew Gabriel into the world! Thanks again for all your support! As we head into fall, I hope to see many of you at home football games. Get ready because right around the corner is our 5th Reunion!

Mizpah, Jonathan and Levi

Hello, Brother Rats!

I hope you are enjoying your summer! Thank you to all who sent in class notes. If you have any interesting recent life events you would like us to include, just send us an email, and we’ll get it into the next issue of the Alumni Review. Autumn is right around the corner, and that means Keydet football will soon be here! Tickets are now available and are selling fast!

I first want to start off with Anna Armfield, who is currently working with the Navy Special Operations Foundation as an athlete ambassador! NSOF supports those in special operations and their families to ensure they have what they need through every phase of life.

Class of 2020: Taylor Batte aboard the USS Wasp.

Jonathan Krauss

LeviKennedy

Class of 2021: Jack Matteo and Alexandra Duklis on their wedding day in July 2024.

Class of 2021: Brooks Coombs recently graduated from the Hanover Fire Academy and is now a Hanover firefighter EMT.

Class of 2021: Brother rats and friends celebrate with Jack Matteo and Alexandra Duklis on their wedding day in July 2024.

2022

Seth McRoberts

Kelly Rollison

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 2022.

2023

Jacob C. Sekerak

DennisonC.Kelly

Brother Rats of the Great Class of 2023, Somehow, we are already approaching the end of 2024; perhaps time truly does go by fast when you’re having “fun.” (I’m sure some of you use that term loosely.)

Starting off the updates is the Coast Guard’s own Sarah Robertson, who states: “I earned my underway officer of the deck qualification, and

I am now the operations department head (operations officer) for my cutter.” Keep it up, Sarah!

In the academic world, we send good luck to Zeke Shrader, who shared that he got accepted to and has started the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine.

Sam Fee also wrote in, saying, “I just started at VCU School of Medicine and doing HPSP with the Army, so I also commissioned!” Great stuff, Sam!

Conner Jorgensen shared that he proposed to his girlfriend of 4 years, Mary Davis, May 11, 2024. Congrats, Conner and Mary!

Charles Scherff wrote to us saying that he and his wife, Regan, got a new puppy and named him Moe! Great VMI reference, y’all; now you have to bring him to a football game so he can meet his namesake!

A few of our BRs had a get-together in Colorado back in June which included Heather Crum, Ethan Hybl, Susie Kirchman, Melanie Rodriguez,

Binh Tran, and Mandee Schermerhorn ’22. It’s great to see you all together and keeping the BR spirit alive and well; it might be safe to call that our 1-year pseudo-reunion!

Lastly, as you may recall from a previous Review, the VMI Admissions Office currently employs two BRs—Ethan Hybl and myself (Jake)— and I am happy to announce we have added two more members of the 2023 family! Just this past summer, we welcomed BR Xavier Frederick to the office as a roadrunner recruiter and Mrs. Regina Allison, mother of BR Thomas Allison, as an assistant director of admissions. It’s quite comforting to know we have the leading edge on making sure prospective students are aware of the best class to ever have been in barracks before they even learn what degrees we offer.

As always, we enjoy hearing from you all; please continue to keep us updated by sending any and all news about your professional and personal accomplishments! Be sure to follow us on our

Class of 2021: Anna Bryant is currently working with the Navy Special Operations Foundation as an athlete ambassador.

Class of 2023: Heather Crum, Ethan Hybl, Susie Kirchman, Melanie Rodriguez, Bihn Tran, and Mandee Schermerhorn ’22 in Colorado in June 2024.

Class of 2023: Charles and Regan Scherff’s new dog, Moe.

Class of 2023: Sarah Robertson on the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Douglas Denman.

class Instagram page, @vmi_2023, as well. Rah, ’23!

Mizpah, Denny and Jake

2024

Justin Peterson

AllenStewart

We hope this message finds everyone thriving in their new adventures! It is still unbelievable to think we actually graduated a short time ago and are allowed to call ourselves alumni. In the short time we have been out of sight from “Mother I,” a lot has happened.

Let’s raise a toast to Tristen Bray, who did not waste any time getting married. Congratulations to you and your bride!

SPC Evan Glasscock and 2nd Lt. Barbara (Keating) Glasscock tied the knot after graduation. 2nd Lt. Barbara Glasscock spent her summer at Fort Knox as CST cadre before Medical Service BOLC. Congratulations to you both!

Additionally, Ella Flickinger and Jacob Hill got engaged at the end of June; congratulations! The whole Class of 2024 cannot wait to attend the wedding.

Jessica Cox graduated from Naval Nuclear Power School in June this year alongside Josiah Sanzone ’23, after starting the school last November. She is now at a prototype in Charleston, South Carolina, and will be heading to Groton, Connecticut, shortly after before entering the fleet.

Jenna Kirkland has been enjoying her time in a new position in the Kentucky Energy and Environmental Cabinet, Division of Water. She regularly assesses and monitors different waterways and wetlands, keeping Kentuckians and their surrounding environment safe for years to come. In her free time, she is preparing to take over vivarium duties as a part of her duties at a graduate assistantship at Eastern Kentucky University.

Abby Soyars started intel school at Goodfellow Air Force Base in Texas. She is spending her time getting to know her fellow officers and taking in the wonderful sights and sounds in Texas.

Calin Green, Sebastian Ramirez, Russell Crouch, and Justin Faught are all working at

Strike Fighter Wing Atlantic/NAS Oceana. Stephen Kelley graduated from the Submarine Officer Basic Course in Groton, Connecticut, and headed down south to Charleston, South Carolina, to start Navy Nuclear Power School.

Finally, if anyone has any life updates, please send them to us at the contact information listed above or follow us on Instagram @VMI_2024. We miss you all and hope to cross paths along our journeys to becoming the best we can be.

God bless!

Class of 2024: Tristen Bray and his wife cut their wedding cake.

Class of 2024: Evan Glasscock and Barbara (Keating) Glasscock at their wedding.

Class of 2024: U.S. Navy Ensign Calin Green flies an F-18F Super Hornet.

Class of 2024: Jessica Cox at her graduation from the Naval Nuclear Power School.

Class of 2024: Jacob Hill and Ella Flickinger after their engagement.

Baby Keydets

HILL—A daughter, Claire Elizabeth, to Lauren and Kevin Hill ’08, June 7, 2024.

CHEATHAM—A son, Theo Francois, to Amy and Billy Cheatham ’14, June 6, 2024.

NOE—A daughter, Emilia Ann, to Ray and Mary Noe ’14, Dec. 9, 2023.

STARK—A son, Luke James, to Sarah and Zach Stark ’14, July 12, 2024.

Degrees

Mason L. Dermott ’19 M.S. Biomedical Sciences

Campbell University, May 2024

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VMI’s 10 Most Senior Alumni

According to the records of the VMI Alumni Agencies, the people listed below constitute the 10 senior alumni of the Institute. Please contact the Alumni Review staff if any errors are noted.

Robert W. Smothers ’44

Selden S. McNeer Jr. ’46

Frank L. Seiboth ’51

Vernon A. Jackson ’46

Joseph E. Wilkinson ’46

M. Eugene Witcher ’50A

Roger P. Rosenfield ’47

Donald T. Doherty ’47

G. Harrison Whitten Jr. ’49A

Arthur D. Violette ’48B

Dec. 2, 1922

Jan. 8, 1925

May 14, 1925

Sept. 21, 1925

Oct. 4, 1925

Jan. 3, 1926

June 16, 1926

July 20, 1926

Feb. 4, 1927

April 19, 1927

Legacy Provisional Appointments

2029

Dolphin T. Overton

2030

Madeline L. Loduca

Patrick H. McNamara

2033

Leila Consedine

2034

Claire V. Frazier

2035

Amy A. Rupright

2036

Robert N. Frazier

2038

Davis H. Brannan IV

2041

Audrey G. Frazier

Owen Kunz

Mason A.C. Lamb

2042

Hayden J. Addison

2043

Perry R. Bamber

2044

Noah C. Addison

William L.L. Flora

Dolphin H. Overton III ’79

Dolphin H. Overton Jr. ’49B

David P. Loduca ’81

Marc F. McNamara ’02

Kevin J. Consedine ’01

Robert M. Frazier ’06

Todd D. Rupright ’95

Robert M. Frazier ’06

Arnold L. Leonard ’74

Robert M. Frazier ’06

Carter L. Kunz ’10

Nelson A. Lamb ’08

Grafton D. Addison ’82

Robert A. Benson ’72

Grafton D. Addison ’82

Matthew W. Flora ’11

Grandfather

2044 (cont.)

Edward F. Gottwald

Edward P. Gottwald ’14

Thomas E. Gottwald ’83

Bruce C. Gottwald ’54

Thomas E. Williams ’44

Thomas D. Gottwald ’09

William D. Gottwald Jr. ’56

William D. Gottwald III ’84

John T. Gottwald ’90

Bruce C. Gottwald Jr. ’81

Alexander H. Williams Jr. ’42

Floyd D. Gottwald Jr. ’43

John D. Williams ’45

Thomas E. Hays Jr. ’57

William H. Clarke ’859

Ayden Kunz

2045

Oliver L. Morgan

2046

Christian B. Addison Jr.

Ellison S. Deacon

Wilder J. Dunnavant

Elise V. Farmer

Riley D. Frantz

Bruce C. Gottwald IV

Wyatt A. Lamczyk

Augustine Lippiatt

Elijah Prather

George J. Price

Carter L. Kunz ’10

P. Allen Morgan ’75

Frank E. Spencer Jr. ’53

Grafton D. Addison ’82

Matthew T. Deacon ’11

Cameron L. Dunnavant ’14

Jordan M. Farmer ’19

Andrew M. Farmer ’21

David G. Frantz ’65

Thomas E. Gottwald ’83

William B. Garber ’64

Gregory E. Lippiatt ’09

James C. Sutherland ’53

Dean A. Kershaw ’68

Stephen C. Price ’71

Graduate School Partnerships

Father Grandfather

Great-grandfather

Great-grandfather

Uncle Cousin

Cousin

Cousin

Great-uncle

Great-great-uncle

Great-great-uncle

Great-great-uncle

Great-great-uncle

Great-great-great-

great-great-greatgreat-uncle

Uncle Grandfather

Great-grandfather

Grandfather

Father

Uncle

Father

Uncle Grandfather

Great-uncle

Great-grandfather

Father

Great-grandfather

Grandfather

Grandfather

Virginia Military Institute has forged relationships with graduate and professional schools in Virginia and across the U.S. These agreements offer opportunities, including admissions concessions, internships, guaranteed interviews and, in some cases, guaranteed admissions. Partnerships include Virginia Commonwealth University, the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Florida State University, Norwich University, and the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. Programs include law, medicine, business, engineering, and communications. Contact Olivia Fowler at fowlerog@vmi.edu for more information.

Malcolm B. Lacy Jr. ’46

Malcolm Baker “Mac” Lacy Jr. ’46, D.D.S., of South Boston, Virginia, died July 18, 2024. He was 99.

He matriculated from South Boston and spent 2-and-a-half years at VMI. He earned a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the Medical College of Virginia.

He is survived by his son-in-law, C. Foster Jennings Jr.; grandchildren, Malcolm Foster Jennings and Lacy Jennings Khandan-Barani (Benjamin); sister, Nan Lacy Godbold; and Sandra Wallace.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Marjorie Creasy Lacy and Kathleen Wilkins Lacy; daughter, Lavalette Lacy Jennings; and brother, William Coles Lacy.

Thomas

D. Bowers ’49B

Rev. Thomas Dix “Tom” Bowers ’49B, D.D., of Morehead City, North Carolina, died July 13, 2024. He was 96.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree and a Doctor of Divinity degree from the University of the South; a Master of Divinity degree and a Doctor of Divinity degree from Virginia Theological Seminary; and a Doctor of Divinity degree from Nashotah House Episcopal Seminary.

He is survived by his wife, Palmer “Pam” Ulmer Bowers; children, Margaret Anne Bowers Ayers (Robert), Thomas Dix Bowers Jr. (Elizabeth), Patricia Elizabeth Bowers-Young (Timothy), and Jonathan St. Paul Bowers (Jane); grandchildren, Kathleen Pendleton Ayres, Elizabeth Ayres Domenech, Margaret Ann Bowers, Ada Nellie Bowers, Isabelle Sun Bowers, Margarita Grace Bowers-Young, Ella Harris Bowers-Young, and Joshua David Bowers; step-son, Charlie A. Sumners; and brother, John Pennington Bowers.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Margaret Pendleton Bowers; brother, George Bowers (Mary Jane); sister, Patricia White (Luther); and sister-in-law, Gail Bowers.

William T. Barnett ’50B

William Thomas “Bill” Barnett ’50B of Raleigh, North Carolina, died July 17, 2024. He was 96.

He matriculated from Macon, Georgia, and spent 1 year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Military Academy and a Master of Business Administration

degree from Harvard University.

He is survived by his wife, Ruth; children, William Thomas Barnett Jr. (Betsy), Carolyn Barnett Brady (Doug), Hall Farmer Barnett (Baba), and Mary Barnett Hale (Scott); grandchildren, William Thomas Barnett III (Beth), Rachel Barnett Maples (Hayden), Ann Barnett Cousins (Dave), W. Douglas Brady Jr. (Allie), Ruth Barnett Brady, Nina Lynde Barnett, Charles Hall Barnett, James Scott Hale Jr., Thomas Barnett Hale, and Carolyn Ruth Hale; and three great-grandchildren, Ann Hanley Barnett, Walter Douglas Brady III, and Hayden Carter Maples Jr.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Thomas Billings Barnett.

John H. Lyons Jr. ’50B

John Hugh “Jack” Lyons Jr. ’50B, M.D., of Norwich, Vermont, died May 9, 2024. He was 95.

He matriculated from Washington, D.C., and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from Harvard University.

He is survived by his wife, Terry; children, Dr. John H. Lyons III, Willam Gwynn Lyons (Susan Diesel), Tracy Lyons Rodriguez (Zane), and Dr. Robert Joseph Lyons (Judy); grandchildren, J. Erik Lyons, Gwynn Lyons, Carmen Lyons, Teresa Rodriguez Murtagh (Brian), Zane J. Rodriguez, Grace Rodriguez Bevilacqua (Dr. Michael Bevilacqua), and C. Michaela Lyons; great-grandchildren, Jack, Georgina, Poppy, and Tommy; and brother, Joseph Stewart Lyons.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Joan Kramer.

Hobart Richey ’51

Hobart Richey ’51 of Allison Park, Pennsylvania, and Orange Beach, Alabama, died May 1, 2024. He was 96.

He matriculated from Wellsburg, West Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Harvard University.

He is survived by his daughters, Sharon RicheyMcClendon (Dr. Jeffrey McClendon), Carol Richey-Yowell (Dr. Steven K. Yowell), and Lynn Richey McNees (retired U.S. Navy Capt. Kevin K. McNees); son; and grandchildren, Dr. Tyler Richey-Yowell (Jessie Ryburn) and Andrew Fenton Richey-Yowell.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne Turcotte Richey, and brothers, Dr. Drake Richey and Kaye Richey.

James P. Miller ’52

James Peterson “Jim” Miller ’52 of Tulsa, Oklahoma, died July 4, 2024. He was 95.

He matriculated from North Little Rock, Arkansas, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his sons, James Miller Jr. (Belinda) and Stephen Miller (Jennifer); grandchildren, Michael “Mick” Miller (Jessie), Matthew Miller (Madison), Jared Miller (Haley), and Jessica Whitlock (Landon); and greatgrandchildren, Oliver, Annie, Ireland, and Ralph.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Pat Miller.

Willcox Ruffin Jr. ’52

Willcox Ruffin Jr. ’52, M.D., of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died June 18, 2024. He was 93.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his sons, John Wakefield Ruffin (Regina) and James Rixey Ruffin (Anna); grandchildren, Leigh Ruffin Adams (Paul), Willcox Kirkland Ruffin Jr. (Carolyn), Margaret Elizabeth Ruffin, Molly Kirkland Ruffin, and Katherine Anne Ruffin; great-grandchildren, Riley Anne Adams, Daniel Ruffin Adams, and Adeline Gallant Ruffin; daughter-in-law, Rebecca P. Ruffin; and sister-in-law, Blair K. Bickford.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Anne Rixey Ruffin; son, Willcox Kirkland Ruffin; sister, Margaret Ruffin Falkiner; and brother, James V. Bickford III ’61, who died Dec. 18, 2023.

Dabney W. Coleman ’53

Dabney Wharton Coleman ’53 of Santa Monica, California, died May 16, 2024. He was 92.

He matriculated from Corpus Christi, Texas, and spent 2 years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas.

( Editor’s Note : An extended obituary for Coleman appears in the In Memory section of this issue).

Danny C. Diamondidis ’53

Danny Chris Diamondidis ’53 of Cary, North Carolina, died June 23, 2024. He was 91.

He matriculated from Clifton Forge, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI.

He is survived by his children, Stefani McEnteer (Don), Chris Diamondidis (Kristin), and Alex Diamondidis (Yvette); grandchildren, Kaeli

McEnteer, Kenna McEnteer, Kaleb Diamondidis, Chris Diamondidis, and Dan Diamondidis; and brothers, Nick Diamondidis and Alex Diamondidis.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Sarah Bettie Turk.

John C. Flannagan ’53

John Coke Flannagan ’53 of Ashburn, Virginia, died May 23, 2024. He was 92.

He matriculated from Mountain Lakes, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI.

He is survived by his children, Robert Flannagan and Anne Flannagan, and granddaughter, Sarah Flannagan.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie; father, Coke Flannagan, Class of 1913, who died June 15, 1989; and grandfather, Dallas Flannagan, Class of 1887, who died Oct. 19, 1949.

George T. Miller Jr. ’53

George Tyler Miller Jr. ’53, Ph.D., of Raleigh, North Carolina, died May 6, 2024. He was 92.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Virginia.

Frank T. Wootton Jr. ’53

Frank Taylor Wootton Jr. ’53 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died June 18, 2024. He was 93. He matriculated from Farmville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Price Wootton; sons, Dr. Frank Taylor Wootton III (Ginger) and James Price Wootton (Carol); grandchildren, Ashley, Taylor, Hillary, Price, Garrett, Brandt, and Chase; and nine greatgrandchildren.

Edgar R. Bare ’54

Edgar Reuben “Bud” Bare ’54 of Silver Spring, Maryland, died June 1, 2024. He was 92.

He matriculated from Lexington, Virginia, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Johns Hopkins University.

He is survived by his wife, Jacqueline Sloan Bare; children, Brian K. Bare (Susan), Katherine S. Beggerly (Clay), Pamella D. Shaw (Robert), Betsy F. Doney (Richard), and Alice W. Shaff;

10 grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and sister, Nancy Bare.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Brenda G. Bare.

Glendel W. Cock ’54

Glendel William “Glen” Cock ’54 of Brandon, Florida, died June 6, 2024. He was 92.

He matriculated from Meadows of Dan, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his children, David Cock (Christine), Robert “Bob” Cock (Kimberly), and Jean White (Joe), and granddaughter, Kaley.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Connell Cock, and brother, Leon J. Cock ’55, who died Sept. 14, 2023.

John A. Mapp ’54

John Alfriend “Johnny” Mapp ’54, M.D., of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died July 18, 2024. He was 91.

He matriculated from Virginia Beach and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; children, John Alfriend “Jay” Mapp Jr. ’84 (Cindy), Thomas Fox Mapp, and Ashby Mapp Moss; and grandchildren, Jared Mapp, John Mapp, Warren Moss, and Trent Moss.

He was preceded in death by his siblings, Virginia Mapp “Jinsy” Richardson, Anne Mapp “Nancy” Ketner, and Richard Custis “Dick” Mapp Jr. ’45, who died Sept. 17, 2005.

William S. Stickley ’55

William Sproul “Bill” Stickley ’55, M.D., of Harrisonburg, Virginia, died July 30, 2024. He was 91.

He matriculated from Penn Laird, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Bowman Gray School of Medicine.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Richard Golightly Stickley, and children, Robert F. Stickley, Regina F. Stickley, Edward Lee Stickley, Carol Anne Stickley, and William Stickley II.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Daniel C. Stickley Jr. ’53, who died Oct. 24, 2011, and father, D.C. Stickley, Class of 1927, who died May 4, 1995.

James M. Dillard ’56

James Malcolm Dillard ’56 of San Diego,

California, died May 16, 2024. He was 89.

He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Northeastern University.

He is survived by his daughter, Joanne Mollerus.

Clayton M. Thomas III ’57

Clayton Malcolm “Dixie” Thomas III ’57 of Deland, Florida, died July 21, 2024. He was 89. He matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Dawn Thomas, and son, Clayton M. “Clay” Thomas IV ’86.

John L. Drake ’58

John Lewis Drake ’58 of Watchung, New Jersey, died April 10, 2024. He was 87.

He matriculated from Irvington, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI.

John D. Goode ’59

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. John David “Dave” Goode ’59 of Bradenton, Florida, died July 27, 2024. He was 86.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of Pittsburgh.

Bowlman T. Bowles Jr. ’60

Bowlman Tarleton “Bo” Bowles Jr. ’60 of Richmond, Virginia, died June 9, 2024. He was 86.

He matriculated from Chattanooga, Tennessee, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Vanderbilt University.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Fleshman Bowles; sons, U.S. Army Reserve Maj. Gen. Bowlman T. “Tripp” Bowles III ’87 (Kamila), Andrew H. Bowles (Kirsten), and Churchill G. Bowles ’92 (Karin); grandchildren, Anne R. Bowles ’24, Churchill G. Bowles Jr., Cadet Bowlman T. Bowles IV ’26, Robert G. Bowles, Coleman T. Bowles, Margaret F. Bowles, and Andrew P. Bowles; and sister-in-law, Elizabeth H. Bowles.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Dr. Robert H. Bowles, and sister, Kimball B. Lauritzen (Bruce).

John N. Hester III ’60

John Nicholas “Nick” Hester III ’60 of Midlothian, Virginia, died May 26, 2024. He was 87.

He matriculated from Reidsville, North Carolina, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Richmond.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Clark Hester; daughters, Tracy Leigh Hester and Lynne Hester Leggett (Stephen); and grandchildren, Megan Leigh Leggett and Nicholas William Leggett. He was preceded in death by his brother, Hugh Scott Hester.

Richard C. Jarvis Sr. ’61

Richard Clayton “Dick” Jarvis Sr. ’61 of Mechanicsville, Virginia, died July 3, 2024. He was 85.

He matriculated from Glasgow, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Jo Jarvis; sons, Richard “Rick” Jarvis Jr. (Sarah) and Michael Jarvis; grandchildren, Molly Jarvis Wells (Cole), Annie Jarvis, and Maddie Jarvis; sister, Mary Carol McAlpin (Robert); and sisters-in-law, Nellie Rice and Barbara Britt.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Forrest Shelor.

Thomas H. Miller ’62

Retired U.S. Navy Cmdr. Thomas Hayes “Tom” Miller ’62 of Atlantic Beach, Florida, died April 21, 2024. He was 83.

He matriculated from Elizabethtown, Kentucky, and spent 1 year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy.

He is survived by his children, Rosamond Miller Helms (Eric) and William Ward Miller (Dawn Camner), and grandchildren, Sofie and Mukan Helms.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Rosamond Hoyt Heroy.

Ralph E. O’Harrow Sr. ’62

Ralph Edward O’Harrow Sr. ’62 of Fayetteville and Sunset Beach, North Carolina, died Sept. 21, 2022. He was 82.

He matriculated from Charles City, Iowa, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the Medical College of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Gholson

O’Harrow; son, Ralph “Ted” O’Harrow Jr.; daughter, Anne Saleeby; grandchildren, Alex Saleeby and Nicholas Saleeby; and sister, Margie Joan Smith.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Harry O’Harrow.

Charles L. Prillaman ’62

Charles Lewis “Skip” Prillaman ’62 of Martinsville, Virginia, died May 10, 2024. He was 84.

He matriculated from Martinsville and spent less than 2 years at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Lois Cochran.

Joseph H. Brown ’63

Joseph Hubbard “Joe” Brown ’63 of Clifton Springs, New York, died Dec. 3, 2021. He was 80. He matriculated from White Stone, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI.

David R. Thomas III ’63

David Romulus Thomas III ’63, M.D., of Evans, Georgia, died June 9, 2024. He was 83.

He matriculated from Augusta, Georgia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Georgia.

He is survived by his wife, Rebecca Rhodes Thomas; sons, David Romulus Thomas IV (Julie) and Robert William Thomas (Sabrina); and grandchildren, Andrew, Sadie, Will, and Charles.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Randell Croft Thomas, and father, David R. Thomas Jr., Class of 1926, who died Sept. 28, 1968.

Michael R. Battaglia ’64

Michael Robert “Mike” Battaglia ’64 of Newport News, Virginia, died May 10, 2024. He was 82.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Jo Scullion Battaglia; daughter, Elizabeth B. Emanuel (Greg); grandchildren, Michael, Katherine, and Caroline; sister, Patricia Robertson (Carl); and brother, Anthony Battaglia (Kathleen).

He was preceded in death by his sister, Ann B. Phillips.

Bradford L. Cherry ’64

Bradford Lee “Brad” Cherry ’64 of Portsmouth,

Virginia, died July 21, 2024. He was 83.

He matriculated from Portsmouth and spent less than 1 year at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Kiernan Cherry; children, Leann Cherry Bakht (Shoaib), Lori Cherry Baccanari (David), and Bradford “Ross” Cherry (Tara); grandchildren, Jennifer, Monika, Elliot, Stella, Annabelle, Savannah, and Hayley; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Julianne Rawls Cherry.

Parker W. Duncan Jr. ’64

Parker Warden Duncan Jr. ’64 of Nashville, Tennessee, died June 6, 2024. He was 82.

He matriculated from Bowling Green, Kentucky, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Yale Law School.

He is survived by his wife, Sandra Roberts; children, Kristen Kelly DeClive-Lowe (Ian) and Parker Andrew Duncan Diaz (Paola); grandchildren, Liam, Oliver, Nathan, and Justin; sister, Mary Nell McGary; brother, Tom Duncan (Pat); and sisters-in-law, Pam Duncan (Julian Romagnoli) and Beverly Gaventa (Bill).

He was preceded in death by his brothers, John Duncan and Kelly Duncan.

Mark S. Mulrooney ’64

Mark Stephen Mulrooney ’64 of Newark, Delaware, died July 27, 2024. He was 82.

He matriculated from Wilmington, Delaware, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Magness Mulrooney; children, David Mulrooney, Sharon Mulrooney Flanagan, and Megan Mulrooney Staats; 12 grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Burnell W. Vincent Jr. ’64

Burnell Wayne “Burnie” Vincent Jr. ’64 of Annapolis, Maryland, died March 9, 2024. He was 81.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Howard University.

He is survived by his wife, Marylou.

Charles L. Ramsburg ’66

Charles Leonard “Charlie” Ramsburg ’66 of Greensboro, North Carolina, died July 2, 2024. He was 79.

He matriculated from Berryville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Gail Fitzpatrick Ramsburg; son, Charles Andrew Ramsburg (Jennifer); and grandchildren, Charles Nicholson “Colson” Ramsburg, William Ashford Ramsburg, Ainsley Grace Mengel, and Kaitlyn Joy Mengel; and brothers, John J. Ramsburg ’68 (Diane) and Richard Ramsburg (Lynn).

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Ashlyn Ramsburg Mengel, and brothers, Thomas Gorrell Ramsburg and Robert Shearer Ramsburg.

Robert L. Sammet ’66

Robert Lyon “Bob” Sammet ’66 of Pensacola, Florida, died May 3, 2024. He was 80.

He matriculated from Ashland, Kentucky, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the Keller School of Management.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Gale Shear Sammet; daughters, Kathleen Hatchett (Todd) and Caren Fuller (Tom); 12 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Robert S. Solomon ’66

Robert Shannon “Bob” Solomon ’66 of Magnolia, Delaware, died July 12, 2024. He was 79.

He matriculated from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Rosemary Battisoni Solomon; 16 grandchildren; and step-children, Lisa Abate (Glenn), Steven Battisoni (Allyson), Mark Battisoni (Gioia), Joel Battisoni (Hannah), and Corey Thomas (Wayne).

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Patricia Solomon and Sandra Solomon Buchanan.

William J. Baker ’67

William James “Jim” Baker ’67 of King George, Virginia, died May 22, 2024. He was 81. He matriculated from Ontario, Canada, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Richmond.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Beverly.

Anthony R. Saccomano ’67

Anthony Robert “Bob” Saccomano ’67 of New York, New York, died Jan. 7, 2024.

He matriculated from Calumet City, Illinois, and spent less than 1 year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Illinois and a Master of International Affairs degree from Columbia University.

He is survived by his sister, Mary K. Ryan.

George W. Lester ’69

George William Lester ’69 of Waynesboro, Virginia, died June 22, 2024. He was 77.

He matriculated from Waynesboro and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Falls Lester; children, W. Clark Lester (Barbara Cermak) and Rachel Erin Lester Grant (Jeremy); stepgrandchildren, Paige Baedke, Chris Grant, and Peyton Grant; and siblings, Cathy Lester (O. Douglas Bosserman) and Timothy Charles Lester (Carolyn Rittenhouse).

Courtenay S. Welton II ’69

Courtenay Sommerville Welton II ’69 of Henrico, Virginia, died June 18, 2024. He was 76.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from American University.

He is survived by his children, Courtenay Sommerville “Corey” Welton III and Kirsten Welton Shields; grandchildren, Ayden Welton, Hailey Shields, and Heidi Shields; and sister, Lynn Welton.

He was preceded in death by his father, Courtenay C. Welton, Class of 1938, who died Sept. 1, 1980.

Kenneth R. Wilson ’70

Kenneth Richard Wilson ’70 of Pacifica, California, died June 3, 2023. He was 75.

He matriculated from Brecksville, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI.

Thomas L. Loizzi ’71

Thomas Louis “Tommy” Loizzi ’71 of Salina, Kansas, died June 28, 2024. He was 74.

He matriculated from Portsmouth, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI.

He is survived by his children, Daniel Lewis, Andrew Lewis, and Aubrey Schneider; grandchildren, Hadley, Carter, Lola, Kaylee, Quinn, Emmy, Olivia, and Sawyer; step-daughter,

Tara Willis; and siblings, Michele, Anthony, and John Loizzi.

Oscar E. Padgett ’71

Oscar Earl Padgett ’71 of Bedford, Virginia, died June 16, 2024. He was 75.

He matriculated from Bedford and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from VMI.

He is survived by his children, James Grafton Padgett and Catheryn Padgett Wolf (Will); grandchildren, Walker Wolf and Wren Wolf; and sister, Charlotte Duis (Fred).

John Y. Richardson Jr. ’75

John Yulee Richardson Jr. ’75 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died June 8, 2024. He was 71. He matriculated from Lexington, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Richmond.

He is survived by his wife, Karen; children, Marie Harris Richardson, John Joseph Richardson ’08 (Ashley), and Andrew Harrison Richardson (Stephanie); grandchildren, Mark Yulee, Jeremiah Graham, Cecilia Joan, Grayson Steven, and Genevieve Marie; sister, Helen Branch Richardson (James); sister-inlaw, Louise O’Sullivan-Oslin; and brother-inlaw and sister-in-law, Michael and Catherine Spinella.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Graham Robert Oslin.

Robert S. French ’76

Robert Sherwin “Bob” French ’76 of Rockledge, Florida, died June 16, 2023. He was 68.

He matriculated from Fort Dix, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from VMI.

William E. Grant ’76

William Edward “Bill” Grant ’76 of Rockville, Maryland, died June 17, 2024. He was 69. He matriculated from Silver Spring, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Johns Hopkins University.

He is survived by his wife, Sheila; children, Rachel, Daniel (Adrianne), and Alexander (Jen); grandchildren, Esmond, Oliver, Zoe, and Lucas; step-children, Danielle and Jacqueline; and sister, Joanne.

Glenn A. Trimmer ’77

Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Glenn Allan Trimmer ’77 of Stafford, Virginia, died June 14, 2024. He was 69.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Webster University.

He is survived by his wife, Becky Trimmer; son, Ross Trimmer (Erin); and grandson, Oliver Trimmer.

James R. Branscome Jr. ’78

James Roscoe “Jay” Branscome Jr. ’78 of Hume, Virginia, died June 21, 2024. He was 68.

He matriculated from Hume and spent 3-anda-half years at VMI. He earned an Associate of Science degree from Ferrum College and a Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Brockport.

He is survived by his wife, Iris Branscome; son, James Alexander Branscome (Maite); and grandson, Jackson Royal Branscome.

He was preceded in death by his brother, John Royal Branscome.

Steven E. Heatwole ’79

Steven Edward Heatwole ’79 of Moseley, Virginia, died May 11, 2024. He was 69.

He matriculated from Waynesboro, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Beth; son, Brett Harman (Jessica); daughters, Elizabeth Shoulders (David), Margaret Simmons (Dennis), Megan Heatwole, and Caroline Meeker (Derek); grandchildren, Landen, Charlotte, Carrington, William, Tyler, Reid, Zachary, Cameron, Brayden, Lily, and Grayson; brother, David Heatwole (Eliza); and sister, Jean Ann Heatwole.

He was preceded in death by his brother-inlaw, Jeffrey J. “Pup” Morgan ’80, who died April 14, 2000.

Douglas W. McCoy ’81

Douglas Ward McCoy ’81 of North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, died May 29, 2024. He was 64.

He matriculated from Ligonier, Pennsylvania, and spent more than 1 year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Marshall University.

He is survived by his daughters, Megan McCoy and Emma McCoy (Pam); parents,

Ward and Arlene McCoy; and brothers, Robert McCoy (Kelly) and Greg McCoy (Audrey).

Bruce W. Kelley ’82

Bruce William Kelley ’82 of Hollywood, Florida, died May 25, 2024. He was 63.

He matriculated from Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and spent 2 years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Bethany Theological Seminary.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Megan and Sean; father, William Kelley; and sister, Sandy Law.

Keith R. Blachowicz ’92

Keith Richard Blachowicz ’92 of Lutherville Timonium, Maryland, died May 16, 2023. He was 53.

He matriculated from Jarrettsville, Maryland, and spent less than 1 year at VMI. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Norwich University.

He is survived by his wife, Cynthia Blachowicz.

William E. Park Jr. ’11

William Edward Park Jr. ’11 of Fairfax, Virginia, died June 19, 2024. He was 35.

He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies from VMI.

He is survived by his mother, Patricia Park, and sister, Jessica Park.

He was preceded in death by his father, William E. Park.

Zachary A. Taylor ’17

Zachary Austin Taylor ’17 of College Station, Texas, died May 30, 2024. He was 29.

He matriculated from Wailuku, Hawaii, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies.

VMI Family

Will C. Allen

Will Coleson Allen of Buena Vista, Virginia, died May 30, 2024. He was 49.

He formerly worked at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Shannon Bane Allen; children, Kelsey Montgomery (John) and Matthew Allen; grandchildren, Elizabeth Montgomery and Wesley Montgomery; mother,

Carol Faye Burch Allen; and brother, Seth Allen.

He was preceded in death by his father, Gary Clinton Allen.

Marcus E. Anderson

Marcus E. Anderson of St. Cloud, Florida, died May 15, 2024. He was 63.

He formerly taught military science at VMI.

He is survived by his wife, Beverly Anderson; children, Danette Anderson-Dalla Torre, Barbara McQuillan, Rhonda Greer, Marcy Orozco, and Vincent Anderson; seven grandchildren; and brothers, Bertram Anderson and Thomas Anderson.

Joseph C. Knakal Jr. (Hon)

Joseph Carl “Joe” Knakal Jr. (Hon) of Monroe, Virginia, died June 8, 2024. He was 89.

He formerly worked for VMI as an athletics announcer and was named an honorary alumnus of VMI in 1975.

He is survived by his wife, Zada Taylor Knakal; daughters, Christine Templeton (Stephen), Kathryn Smith (Ron), and Karen Cercone (Steve); grandchildren, Ryan Marsh, Christopher Knakal, Carlin Pierce, Gabrielle Cercone, Noah Smith, Brayton Pierce, and Nicholas Cercone; four great-grandchildren; and sister-in-law, Carolyn Knakal.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Ronald Julius Knakal.

Madge M. Snider

Madge Mynes Snider of Raphine, Virginia, died May 9, 2024. She was 101.

She formerly worked in the laundry department at VMI.

She is survived by her daughter, Connie Coffey; grandsons, Chad Conner and Colby Conner; great-grandson, Clinton Conner; and two great-great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Arthur W. Snider; son, Ronald Wilson Snider; and siblings.

Roger L. Sours

Roger Lee Sours of Fairfield, Virginia, died June 21, 2024. He was 77.

He formerly worked for the VMI Post Police and Physical Plant.

He is survived by his son, Mark Sours (Paige); grandchildren, Jacob Sours, Kaitlyn Sours, and Makayla Sours; and sisters, Catherine Coffey (Eddie) and Nancy Reed.

After Taps

Thomas D. Bowers ’49B, D.D.

By James “Ding” Patton ’49B

On July 13, 2024, Thomas Dix Bowers ’49B, D.D., retired Episcopal priest and beloved brother rat of the Class of 1949B, passed away peacefully in hospice care at his home in Morehead City, North Carolina. Tom had been in declining health but remained cheerful and in good humor.

July 11, 1945, was a day that will live in infamy for what would become the Class of 1949B. Tom Bowers from Norfolk, Virginia, along with 150 other young men, signed “the book” and matriculated at VMI. The war was still raging in the Pacific but was soon over after the dropping of two atomic bombs on the nation of Japan in August. There were few old cadets, but they made the rat year tough, as they didn’t want the traditions of pre-war VMI to be lost to future generations because of the war. Tom had a beautiful tenor voice and was a member of the Glee Club. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering in January 1949 and went into the U.S. Army, where he was deployed for 16 months in Korea. He served as a first lieutenant in the 39th Artillery Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division.

After military service, Tom attended the University of the South, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in English and received a calling to ordained ministry. He went to the Virginia Theological Seminary, where he

received a Master of Divinity degree in 1956 and began his life’s work serving the Lord. His first assignment was on the Eastern Shore of Virginia as deacon-in-charge and then rector of St. George’s and St. James, and then he went to St. Alban’s in Washington, D.C., where he was an associate rector. This was followed by service as the rector of St. Patrick’s in Washington, D.C., St. Luke’s in Atlanta, and finally at St. Bartholomew’s in New York City. At that time, St. Bartholomew’s was one of the largest Episcopal churches in America. It was during his time on the Eastern Shore that he met and fell in love with Margaret Pendleton Bonner. They were married in 1958 and raised four children, Margaret Anne, Thomas, Patricia, and Jonathan. Margaret died from ovarian cancer in 2001.

Tom married Palmer “Pam” Ulmer in 2003, and they enjoyed traveling and life together, including class reunions, where Tom, because of his beautiful tenor voice, was always asked to sing “Danny Boy” and frequently participated in our memorial service for deceased brother rats. Due to health issues, he was unable to attend our 75th Reunion in April.

Tom’s was a life of love and service to all, but especially the poor and downtrodden. The church was in a period of transition during the civil rights era, and Tom boldly stepped forward in his ministry to lead the challenges

brought on by it. He was heavily involved with service on boards of several Episcopal schools and diocesan-related commissions and councils while in the D.C. area. At St. Luke’s, he began a community kitchen, which grew to become the Atlanta Food Bank, among other outreach projects. He also served as commissioner of the Human Relations Commission in Atlanta, and in 1977, he was presented with the Human Relations Award from the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change by Coretta Scott King. At St. Bartholomew’s, he founded a soup kitchen, food bank, shelter program, task force on AIDS, and ministry to the elderly. He also drew national attention when he attempted to rent property not needed for church purposes in order to have funds to maintain St. Bart’s church and fund charitable projects.

In recognition of his service, Tom received honorary Doctor of Divinity degrees from Nashotah House Seminary, Virginia Theological Seminary, and the University of the South. Even in retirement, Tom continued to serve the Lord through the Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C., Eastern and Western North Carolina parishes, and at the Anglican church on the Caribbean islands of Anguilla and St. Bart’s, where he spent many winters. Rest in peace, Brother Rat Tom Bowers. You will be missed by all who knew you.

John H. Lyons Jr. ’50B, M.D.

By Robert Lynd ’50B

John Hugh Lyons Jr. ’50B, M.D., died May 9, 2024. He was a proud member of the Class of 1950B and my roommate all 4 years. We first met at Staunton High School (then Robert E. Lee High School) in Staunton, Virginia. Jack’s father was a prominent doctor in Washington, D.C., who had been drafted by the U.S. Army and stationed in a newly built hospital complex in Fishersville.

At matriculation, we indicated we would like to room together, and that happened. We were assigned a three-man room, No. 344, in

the northwest corner of the third stoop near the sink. Our class of 354 matriculants was the largest class to have entered the Institute up to that time. There were not enough rooms on the fourth stoop to house all of us, so many were billeted on the third stoop.

VMI had a horse troop in 1946, and Jack, who loved horses, signed up for it. When we had garrison reviews, all the foot companies initially passed in review as normal. Then, the horse troop passed in review, brandishing their lances. We foot soldiers formed in bat-

talion mass and once again passed in review. Marching behind the troop, one had to watch where he was stepping because of the youknow-what from the horses, which totally disrupted our lines.

Having come from a medical family, it was natural that Jack decided on pre-med as his major. Therefore, he became one of Doc Carroll’s boys and did well all 4 years. Always up for having fun, Jack brought a little Ford coupe to Lexington and hid it away in a rental garage. On occasion, he would take the car out for a

spin, a trip to Southern Sem, or some other pleasant outing.

Graduation caused us to part ways. I went into the Army, and Jack delayed medical school for 2 years after graduation and remained at VMI teaching physics. While there, he spent a couple of summers in Mexico, where his interest in Spanish began.

Having delayed his medical training for a couple of years, Jack went to medical school at George Washington University. He continued his education at Harvard, and in November 1955, he married Terry, whom he had met and dated during that time. Finally, the Army caught up with him, and he spent a couple of years in an Army hospital in Heidelberg, Germany. He was there with Terry and two children, working as a surgeon in the Army hospital. His daughter was born there. Jack returned to the States in 1959 to finish out his residency. He eventually settled in as a surgeon

at Hitchcock Memorial Hospital at Dartmouth College in New Hampshire. By then, he and Terry had four children.

Jack enjoyed life. For example, he became interested in Mardi Gras and used to attend, not in the crowds of New Orleans but in the smaller town of Eunice, Louisiana. He even learned to play the little Cajun squeezebox. Late in his career, he began taking a few students to Guatemala to learn more Spanish and to learn how medicine is practiced there.

He lived and raised his family outside of Norwich, Vermont, in a grand old home built in the 1800s and situated on a large property. It was only a short hop across the river to Dartmouth. By retirement time, Jack had become interested in farming and started a project called Willing Hands, a project that grows vegetables distributed to those in need in his Vermont valley. There are now many Willing Hands farms in the valley, the original

of which is on part of Jack’s property.

Jack was not only distinguished in the field of medicine. Because of his work in founding the Willing Hands project, he received the Inaugural Lifetime Achievement Award from Dartmouth’s Thomas P. Almy Chapter of the Gold Humanism Honor Society. It was named in his honor as the John H. Lyons, M.D., Award.

Although physically separated over the years, after our retirements, we met at reunions. Like many of us, Jack had knee problems and a balance issue. But he overcame these and continued on for years. Terry said complications from RSV finally did him in. But he had his 95th birthday party with all his family around him and had fun.

So we say goodbye to John Hugh Lyons Jr. He was an outstanding medical professional, fellow brother rat, loving family man, and a personal dear friend remembered and beloved by many.

John A. “Johnny” Mapp ’54

By

Louis

Drake

’54, Jeff Robertson ’54, and George “Mud” White ’54

The following words are written in the varsity football section of the 1954 Bomb: “Spearheaded by possibly the greatest athlete in VMI’s colorful history, Johnny Mapp.” Johnny died in his sleep July 18, 2024, after a long and courageous battle with lung disease—all with no complaining.

We have known Johnny since high school days and roomed with him at VMI from 1951–54. It was our privilege and pleasure to have known him as an exceedingly extraordinary athlete, gentleman, and friend. While he was a VMI cadet, we had the privilege of being Johnny’s number one supporters as he became an outstanding All-Southern football player and All-American trackman from VMI. At graduation from VMI, he was awarded the Society of the Cincinnati medal, befitting his “distinguished efficiencies of service and excellence of character throughout his cadetship.”

In Johnny’s 1st Class year, he was offered the opportunity to try out for the 1956 Olympic track team and to try out for the Cleveland Browns football team. Both were graciously turned down as he prepared to enter UVA medical school.

In 1950 and 1951, freshmen did not play

varsity sports. In the ’51 track season, as a rat, Johnny won five events in every track meet he entered, including the 110- and 220-yard hurdles, the 100- and 220-yard dash, and the broad jump. He played defense only in the ’51 and ’52 football seasons. In the ’51 season, he played in every game. He had three interceptions that averaged 50 yards per return. In the ’52 season, he had 10 interceptions. In the ’53 season, he played both ways and had 13 touchdowns for 78 points, a total that tied for third in the nation. In the ’53 football season, he was named to the first team All-State and All-Southern defensive team, plus honorable mention All-American. In 1954, he was voted by the Sportswriters Association as the Southern Conference Athlete of the Year. In the same year, he was named Virginia’s Football Player of the Year.

In the ’53 football season, VMI was the Virginia state champion, with wins against VPI, UVA, and William & Mary. Johnny made three touchdowns against the Hokies and two touchdowns against the Wahoos. Along the way, sportswriters began to call him “the Norfolk Flyer.” This name stuck, and in the ’70s, the Norfolk Flyer was inducted into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame.

Johnny’s track accomplishments exceeded his football accomplishments. He was a winner in every track meet he ever entered, including dual, state, and conference meets. In dual meets, his winning points count was frequently more than the opposition team’s total accumulated count. He frequently won multiple events in conference and state meets. In 1952, he was second in the 220 hurdles in the NCAA meet and third in the National AAU meet.

After VMI and his many sports-related accomplishments, Johnny went on to graduate from UVA medical school; married Betty Fox from Capron, Virginia; and fathered three children, Jay ’84, Ashby, and Tommy.

His career in medicine included the American Medical Association Prestigious Physician Award and the Virginia Beach Hospital Physician of the Year Award.

Our friend Johnny Mapp was an outstanding VMI athlete, family man, friend, physician, and person. His life accomplishments speak for themselves.

His unassuming and quiet manner was always present, even as he put you away in whatever contest presented, be it football, track, ping pong, golf, standing on one leg, or whatever.

After Taps

Glenn A. Trimmer ’77

By Tim Liles ’77

Our brother rat and friend, Glenn Allan Trimmer ’77, passed away June 14, 2024, at the age of 69 from complications of Alzheimer’s. He is survived by his high school sweetheart, Becky; his son, Ross; his daughterin-law, Erin; and his grandson, Oliver.

Glenn graduated from VMI in the Class of 1977 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history with academic distinction. Commissioned in the U.S. Air Force, he became a Titan missile commander in Wichita Falls, Texas, and earned a master’s degree from Webster University. He taught Air Force ROTC at Duke University and taught at the Army War College, where he gave staff tours to students at the nearby Gettysburg battlefield. He also worked at the Pentagon and at the State Department before retiring as a colonel. A crowning achievement was his work in Geneva, Switzerland, on the negotiations for the START nuclear missile defense treaty with Russia. Upon retirement from active duty, Glenn continued contributing to our nation’s defense with work at Booz Allen Hamilton and General Dynamics.

While he enjoyed a successful and rewarding Air Force career, Glenn had an unmatched passion for Civil War history. While at VMI, he was, as one brother rat described, the “force” behind the Civil War Roundtable. He inspired their activities, ultimately leading a 4-day, 84mile march to New Market in period cadet uniforms that ended with a charge up the hill beside the Bushong house as the cadets of 1864 did. Beyond the gates of VMI, Glenn spent countless hours in the woods and fields. As he followed the sounds of his metal detector, he was able to find tangible reminders of the daily activities of the common soldier of that terrible conflict. This allowed him to pinpoint the exact locations of specific units to verify his study of Civil War battlefields. His knowledge of the Civil War was incredible and earned him widespread recognition.

After Glenn and Becky settled in Stafford, Virginia, Glenn identified the Union Army’s winter encampment following the 1862 Battle of Fredericksburg. He battled local politicians and government regulations to preserve what

some call “the Union Army’s Valley Forge.” With the help of his friend, D.P. Newton, the Stafford Civil War Park became a reality and stands as a testament to their efforts.

Glenn loved and adored his family, and nothing was more important to him. He was devoted to his friends. He found satisfaction in a rewarding military career. But this direct connection to Civil War history made him complete. He pursued the study of battles with enthusiasm. The relics and artifacts that he could hold in his hands sparked his imagination and gave him an appreciation of the fears and daily struggles that the common soldier faced.

Glenn was a true friend to all of us in the Class of 1977. His sense of humor will be missed, as will his deep reflection on both current events and those of long ago. A tribute was made that perfectly describes him: “Glenn was not just a man of conviction and military discipline, but he was a man of compassion and deep faith.” Rest in peace, brother rat. We will see you again.

TapsAlumni News

Keith Frey ’75, M.D., was recently awarded the Wallace A. Reed, M.D. Award by the Arizona Medical Association as a part of the 2024 ArMA Health Care Awards.

The Wallace A. Reed, M.D. Award is named after the anesthesiologist who developed the first free-standing ambulatory surgical facility in Arizona and recognizes innovation in healthcare. This year’s award was presented to Frey for his innovative vision for clinician well-being, as evidenced by his leadership of the Wellbeing Collaborative, an initiative that has offered widespread support and impact within the health care community.

A retired academic family medicine physician and health care executive, Frey now serves as a leadership mentor, coach, speaker, and consultant. He is strongly interested in clinician well-being, particularly the leadership attributes supporting healthy and functional clinical cultures. As a pivotal leader in the clinician wellbeing movement, Frey has supported many upand-coming physicians as a mentor.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Frey focused this passion and expertise on forming, with other clinical leaders, the Wellbeing Collaborative of Arizona Health Professionals. He served as the collaborative’s initial executive director in 2023.

During his active career, Frey was boardcertified in family medicine and clinical informatics. He holds additional certifications in executive coaching from the John Maxwell Team and Hogan Personality Assessments, and in 2019, Frey graduated from the Stanford Medicine Chief Wellness Officer program.

Matriculating from Clarksville, Virginia, Frey graduated with distinction with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in 1979 and his Master of Business Administration degree from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University in 1988.

William & Mary Law School named retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Michael Dick ’77 as the Lewis B. Puller, Jr. Veterans Benefits Clinic director and clinical associate professor of law May 1, 2024.

Dick has been serving the law school as visiting professor of the practice, co-director of the Puller Clinic, director of the law school’s Office of Military and Veteran Affairs, and assistant director of the Center for International Law and Policy.

Before attending law school, Dick spent more than 26 years on active duty in the Marine Corps, largely as an infantry officer. He served in various U.S. and NATO assignments involving multinational and inter-agency coordination responsibilities, including assignments as a rifle company commander, Marine Expeditionary Unit operations officer, infantry battalion commander, and NATO senior staff officer at NATO HQ in Brussels, Belgium.

With almost 8 years of overseas service, his assignments included numerous leadership positions involving operations in such places as Lebanon, Grenada, Somalia, Bosnia, and Liberia. His final active duty assignment was as assistant chief of staff, G-3 Operations, Plans, Training, for the 2nd Marine Division, where he served as the principal adviser to the division commander on the operational employment of the 16,000-member division. He is a graduate of the U.S. Marine Corps Command and Staff College, U.S. Marine Corps School of Advanced Warfighting, and the NATO Defense College in Rome, Italy.

After retirement from the military, Dick graduated from the William & Mary Law School in 2006 and joined the U.S. Department of Justice via the Attorney General’s Honors Program, where he served with the Office of Intelligence, a component of DOJ’s National Security Division. His responsibilities involved representing the U.S. government before the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court to obtain authorization for sensitive intelligence operations involving national security, terrorism, and counterintelligence issues.

In 2014, Dick joined the Office of International Affairs in the Criminal Division of DOJ, where he handled casework involving international extradition and mutual legal assistance matters. He also led a team focused on analyzing strategic issues involving complex matters of concern to the director of OIA. His last assignment at OIA was as the associate director for Policy, Legislation, and Multilateral Affairs, where he addressed challenging policy issues.

After almost 13 years at the DOJ, he came to the Puller Veterans Benefits Clinic, where he was named visiting professor of the practice in October 2019 and co-director in 2020.

Since then, he has taught and mentored clinic students representing veterans in securing compensation for disabilities from their military service. In addition to his responsibilities within the Puller Clinic, in July 2023, Dick assumed duties as director of the newly established Office of Military & Veteran Affairs, which provides dedicated, focused, and holistic support to students at William & Mary Law School who are veterans, active duty, or reserve forces personnel.

His experience serving veterans includes being appointed to the Virginia Board of Veterans Services by then-Gov. Terry McAuliffe in 2016. He completed his service on the board in 2024, having served as vice chair and chairman of the board.

Matriculating from Winchester, Virginia, Dick graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI.

Callanan ’78

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin appointed Kevin J. Callanan ’78 to serve a 4-year term as a Christopher Newport University Board of Visitors member from July 1, 2024–June 30, 2028.

A retired lieutenant colonel, Callanan served in the Army and Army Reserve from 1978–2006. He is a Certified Fund Raising Executive and founder and principal consultant of CES, LLC, a consulting firm serving the charitable sector throughout the Southeast and Mid-Atlantic. The company aids in fundraising strategies, including capital campaigns, audits, and rebuilding fundraising programs. They also provide support through interim leadership and on-site fundraising.

Callanan has over three decades of experience in charitable fundraising and management and has raised over $60 million for charities in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia. He served as Valley Health System executive director from 2005–19.

In 2014, then-Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 appointed Callanan to serve on the Frontier Culture Museum Board of Trustees. He is a Grafton Integrated Healthcare Board of Directors member, the Grafton School Foundation chair, the Broadway Association Board of Directors chair, the FNB Bank Community Advisory Council chair, and the CNU Alumni Society Board of Directors treasurer.

Matriculating from Hampton, Virginia,

’75

Dick ’77

Callanan studied at VMI for 2 years before transferring to Christopher Newport University, where he graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in business and managerial economics in 1978. He then served on active duty and in the U.S. Army Reserve for 28 years, retiring as a lieutenant colonel. During his Army service, Callanan attended the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College. At Duke University, Callanan earned a certificate in fundraising management and has been recognized as a CFRE since 2020.

Four Branches Bourbon, co-founded by retired U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Rick Franco ’95, has made remarkable strides since its launch in May 2023, raising over $335,000 for veteran-focused and first-responder charitable organizations.

As the first and only spirits company in America

Franco ’95

founded by veterans from the Army, Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, Four Branches prides itself on a spirit of service and camaraderie. Franco conceived the idea as a heartfelt tribute to his fellow Marine officer and VMI alumnus,

the late Greg Wright Jr. ’95.

Franco’s VMI roots of discipline and brotherhood have influenced Four Branches’ ethos, driving its mission to reshape the narrative surrounding alcohol consumption among veterans. The company’s motto, “Drink Honorably,” encourages an elevated drinking experience of reflection and memory rather than escape.

The company’s commitment to giving back is further evidenced by its donation of four special

Book Announcements

Steel Tigers: The 77th Armor Regiment 1940–1992 by Donald L. Cummings ’65. Independently published, 2024. ISBN: 9798327703445. Available via Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

“Steel Tigers: The 77th Armor Regiment 1940–1992” is a history of the 77th Armor Regiment, which was created as the 753rd Tank Battalion in 1940 and served as one of many independent tank battalions assigned

to U.S. Army infantry divisions during World War II. The 753rd became the 77th Armor in the early years of the Cold War with the Warsaw Pact and fought in Korea, Vietnam, the former Yugoslavia, and the Middle East. This volume begins during the buildup before Pearl Harbor and closes when the Warsaw Pact and Soviet Union had completed their dissolution by the beginning of 1992. During this half of the century, units of the regiment participated in many historically significant combat operations overseas and domestic incidents that required the Army to respond to domestic disorder in the United States.

During the Cold War, the regiment had five battalions. The 1st Battalion 77th Armor is the only remaining battalion and is located at Fort Bliss, Texas. Using national security and strategy from the White House through the military chain of command down to the individual unit level, the story of the Steel Tigers is a snapshot of United States history at home and abroad for much of the 20th century, as seen through the eyes of those who served in the regiment. Units went where none thought tanks could go, entering into forbidding terrain and being resupplied completely by air with ammunition, fuel, food, and every other necessary item when the mission required it. The visionaries from 1915 who wanted to

bottles auctioned at a CIA Officers Memorial Foundation event in Washington, D.C., raising $66,000.

In addition to its philanthropic achievements, Four Branches has rapidly expanded its market presence. Their first release, Founders Blend, is available in restaurants, bars, and retail stores across Tennessee, Florida, Kentucky, Arizona, Maryland, D.C., and Virginia, where it is stocked statewide in ABC stores. It is also featured in the top five Navy Exchange stores in Virginia, Maryland, and Florida. Consumers can purchase Four Branches Bourbon online, with shipping available to 32 states.

Matriculating from Carrollton, Texas, Franco earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies from VMI. He currently resides in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, with his wife and two children.

restore mobility to the battlefield achieved it by 1992 and have continued refining it since.

About the Author:

Donald L. Cummings ’65 served in the 1st Battalion 77th Armor in 1968 when it deployed to South Vietnam. He was the battalion’s intelligence officer and a tank company commander. Cummings served overseas in the 1st Battalion 72nd Armor, 2nd Infantry Division in South Korea, and 3rd Brigade, 1st Armored Division in West Germany. His assignments in the U.S. included company command at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and as the Army’s representative to an interagency team where he coauthored the methodology that led to the production of the U.S. Intelligence Community’s first coordinated study of the Warsaw Pact’s current and projected ground force structure. Cummings also served as a senior analyst in the Defense Intelligence Agency’s Africa branch, where he was responsible for seven former French and Portuguese colonies and later for Ethiopia. He later joined a major defense contractor as a senior analyst and program manager.

He was an adjunct faculty member in George Mason University’s Department of Public Affairs, where he presented an upper-division course in Latin American government and

politics and a lower-division comparative politics survey course. He later joined the doctoral program at National American University’s Henley-Putnam School of Strategic Studies. Cummings holds a Master of Arts and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in political science from the University of California–Santa Barbara. He matriculated from Denville, New Jersey, and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI.

Experiencing the Trinity: Is One a Lonely Number? by David G. Frantz ’65. Christian Faith Publishing, 2023. ISBN: 9798890439253. Available via Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

“Experiencing the Trinity” presents a straightforward approach to understanding the Trinity—an approach the author hopes will welcome readers into a closer relationship with the Godhead. David G. Frantz ’65 considers himself a non-theologian lay writer who writes to fellow laypersons. Among the book’s objectives, the primary focus is to reduce the complexity and mystery of the Trinity by emphasizing the dynamics of the three interrelationships and their respective manifestations through time. In Frantz’ view, this approach contrasts with many studies on the Trinity, which are compli-

cated with discussions of historical details and theological doctrines that can confuse a reader seeking an understanding of the Trinity concept. For example, focusing on analysis or elaborate background description of the creeds does not bring “life” to the Trinitarian experience.

In summary, the approach is a socialization of the Trinity. By focusing on the interaction among the three personages of the Trinity, Frantz endeavors to give the reader a more

personalized “living” experience for the everyday life of peaceful, reassuring awareness. Many contemporary writers dealing with the Trinity focus on dynamism, relationality, and motion to present the Trinity as a more “living, loving” force for readers. “Experiencing the Trinity” has adopted this prescription to enhance the effectiveness of the effort for the ultimate spiritual fulfillment of the reader.

About the Author:

David G. Frantz ’65 is a retired senior international energy and financial executive. His career involved structuring and financing utility-scale energy projects all over the world. A former U.S. Naval officer, Frantz’s 5 years of active military service included serving in combat during the Vietnam War.

Matriculating from Warren, Pennsylvania, Frantz graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He then earned two Master of Arts degrees from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy at Tufts University in international economics and international business transactions and security studies. Frantz also completed an advanced management program at Harvard Business School.

Frantz resides with his wife, Claudia, in Williamsburg, Virginia.

Jonathan M. Daniels 1961 Seminary Scholarship

Dr. G. Lee Southard ’59 and his family established the Jonathan M. Daniels 1961 Seminary Scholarship in 1985. The purpose of the scholarship is to assist VMI graduates pursuing an advanced degree leading to Protestant Christian ministry. The scholarship is named in honor of Jonathan M. Daniels ’61, who, after graduating from VMI, followed a call to ministry and entered seminary.

For more information, applications, and instructions, please contact Mary Cannon, administrative assistant in the VMI Chaplains’ Office, at cannonml@vmi.edu.

The degree pursued must lead to service as a pastor or military chaplain in Protestant ministry. The deadline for submitting the application is June 15 each year. Scholarships are awarded in July.

Cavallaro ’84 Retires After 40 Years with VMI Alumni Agencies

On Jan. 31, 2025, Gregory M. “Cav” Cavallaro ’84 will retire after 40 years of admirable and effective service to VMI and the VMI Alumni Agencies.

Upon his VMI graduation in May 1984, Cavallaro’s appreciation for the Institute led to a natural transition from cadet to alumnus, when he began working for Col. William J. Buchanan ’50B in the VMI Office of Admissions as an admissions counselor. Cavallaro took on his first position at the Agencies as the VMI Foundation’s director of annual giving 2 years later. In that role, he was instrumental in the effort that led to a rapid and substantial increase in the number of alumni who made a gift to the Institute. With Dabney Coleman ’53 serving as the Annual Giving national chairman, Cavallaro made major contributions to the success of the Sesquicentennial Campaign—in which more than 50% of alumni were donors and saw VMI ranked No. 1 of all public colleges and universities for alumni participation. During his 14 years at the Foundation, he was promoted to vice president and oversaw the significant growth of the Institute Society in terms of society membership and unrestricted money raised for the Institute.

the creation of the Three-Legged Stool Award, which has been presented every year at the Keydet Club’s annual scholarship banquet since 2001. The award recognizes cadet-athletes in the 1st Class who have excelled throughout their cadetship in the “three legs” of a VMI education and so exemplify the VMI “citizen-soldier.” The late Giles Miller Jr., Class of 1924, coined the term “three-legged stool” in reference to the Institute’s whole-person educational emphasis on academics, military and leadership development, and athletics. Over the years, four alumni have received the Three-Legged Stool Award—Miller in 2001, G. Gilmer Minor III ’63 in 2006, Elmon T. Gray ’46 in 2007, and Cavallaro in 2022.

Cavallaro is also credited with the creation of the VMI Wall of Honor in Cameron Hall, which recognizes those generous donors whose benevolence has exceeded $1 million in support of athletics. The wall also displays the recipients of the Three-Legged Stool Award and the Spirit of VMI Award, as well as the past Keydet Club presidents.

In January 2000, after 14 years with the Foundation, Cavallaro was hired by the late Jeff Morgan ’80 to join the VMI Keydet Club. In June of that year, following Morgan’s tragic death and a national search, Cavallaro became its executive vice president and, later, its chief executive officer.

During his tenure at the Keydet Club, he worked closely with eight different volunteer presidents of the organization’s Board of Governors and led a small but devoted team that rejuvenated athletic fundraising at VMI and reorganized its leadership giving program with enhanced donor engagement through unprecedented special events. Under Cavallaro’s leadership, the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund realized substantial gains in giving and participation, which expanded the opportunities for young people to embrace the transformative cadet-athlete experience. He was one of the leaders in the effort that led to the creation of the Athletic Operations Fund, which has raised millions of dollars in operational support for the Institute’s many sports teams and the athletics program in general. Also, in response to an identified need for increased team-specific scholarship funding, Cavallaro led the development of team scholarship funds for every athletic team. TSFs allow alumni and friends to supplement the money generated by endowed scholarships through direct donations and have garnered widespread support since their establishment.

The money raised by the Keydet Club under his leadership also gave the Institute the confidence to increase scholarship funding and operational support for women’s athletics and to establish the women’s water polo team in 2009, thus expanding athletic opportunities for women at VMI. Another accomplishment from which he received great satisfaction was the huge growth of the Keydet Club’s Scholarship Awards Banquet from a little more than 100 attendees to a high of more than 800 donors, cadets, parents, faculty, and staff. He was also responsible for

In 2019, Cavallaro decided to step down as the head of the Keydet Club, a role in which he had served for 18 years—the longest tenure of any Alumni Agencies head. He would begin working remotely from his home at Smith Mountain Lake and took on his current role as a senior major gifts officer for the Alumni Agencies. During the past 5 years, he continued to engage with hundreds of alumni in support of VMI’s academic, co-curricular, and athletic programs. Throughout his long career, nearly $200 million has been raised in Annual Giving funds of the Foundation and the Keydet Club, and, meaningfully, the endowment of the Keydet Club increased from roughly $7 million to more than $93 million today. These incredible financial resources, for a school the size of VMI, have improved every aspect of cadets’ experiences and so aided them in pursuing a world-class education in their preparation to meet the challenges of the world they face after graduation.

Regarding Cavallaro’s impact on the Keydet Club, Andrew C. Deal ’12, Keydet Club chief operating officer and Alumni Agencies chief development officer, said, “Cav has been an integral piece of the Alumni Agencies for many years. The impact he had in his role as Keydet Club CEO was instrumental in carrying forward the Keydet Club’s foundation and mission. I am thankful for the opportunity he gave me in 2012 to join the team, and he has inspired me to carry forward the Keydet Club’s proud legacy.”

David L. Prasnicki, Alumni Agencies chief executive officer, stated, “After 40 years of dedicated service at VMI, we congratulate Greg Cavallaro, colleague and friend, on his retirement.

“From his start in admissions to his decades of service in fundraising support for the Institute in both the Foundation and Keydet Club, Cav’s unwavering commitment to VMI has left an indelible mark on all of us. As he and Marlene embark on this new chapter, we wish them all the best, knowing they have impacted the lives of thousands of cadet-athletes for generations to come.”

Cavallaro ’84

Members of the Rat Mass of 2025+3 cheer on the Keydets during the football game versus Norfolk State Sept. 21, 2024.