Alumni Review 2013 Issue 3 by VMI Alumni Agencies

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ALUMNI REVIEW 2013-Issue 3

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Contents

VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE Alumni Review 2013-Issue 3

IN THIS ISSUE . . .

This issue includes class notes and articles covering the time period of Feb. 16 to May 15, 2013.

FEATURES 7

14 In Memory of Cameron Jr. ’38, Marks ’46 and Meredith Sr. ’50B 17 Hilliard ’60: Rocket Man 20 Huger Family Predates Civil War 22 1st Spring Reunion: Apr. 22-23 27 2nd Spring Reunion: Apr. 26-27

NEWS AND UPDATES 3

Alumni in Theater: An Update

Our Alumni Serving

Association/Chapter News

New Cadet Recruiting News

Class Notes

160 Births, Marriages, Degrees 162 Taps 169 Alumni News

President’s Letter

167 Association Directory 173 The Institute 180 VMI Athletics 185 The Foundation 191 The Keydet Club

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Editor: Hope Hennessey Editorial Assistant: Brenda Stoner

PRINTER Progress Printing Co., Inc. Lynchburg, Virginia

19 Leggett ’93: Helps Vets

DEPARTMENTS

PUBLISHER The President of The VMI Alumni Association, Inc.

PUBLISHING OFFICE The VMI Alumni Association, Inc., Alumni Review Office VMI Moody Hall, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450; 540/464-7224 review@vmiaa.org

Graduation Week 2013

Volume 90, No. 2

182

The VMI Alumni Review (USPS 954-740) is published four times yearly in fall, winter, spring and summer by The VMI Alumni Association, Inc., P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450. It is sent to alumni and friends of the Institute without subscription. ATTENTION POSTMASTER: Send changes of address to: VMI Alumni Review, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450 Periodicals postage paid at Lynchburg, VA. PURPOSE OF THE VMI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION To organize the alumni, the better to keep alive the memories of Institute life and—by their united efforts—to aid in the promotion of the welfare of the Institute, and the successful prosecution of its educational purposes. VMI ALUMNI AGENCIES TELEPHONE NUMBERS The VMI Alumni Association: The VMI Foundation: The VMI Keydet Club:

540/464-7221 540/464-7287 540/464-7328

WEBSITE ADDRESSES Alumni Agencies: www.vmialumni.org VMI: www.vmi.edu ON OUR COVER Outside Front Cover: Pete Brunel ’63 at his class’s 50th Reunion, held on April 26-27, 2013. Inside Front Cover: Representatives of the class of 1993 leading their class in the Old Yell during the April 26-27 reunion weekend. All cover photos by Julie Rivera.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Greetings from the Institute! In this Review, we remember three men whose exemplary lives and contributions to the Institute serve as outstanding examples for us all: the late Bruce B. Cameron Jr. ’38, who was the recipient of both the VMI Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award and VMI Keydet Club’s Spirit of VMI Award; the late Paul Douglas Camp Marks ’46; and the late Peter Marshall Meredith Sr.’50B, who, like Cameron, was a recipient of the Distinguished Service Award. Their obituaries appear in the front section of this Review. Also in the front section are the spring 2013 reunion photos. More than 600 alumni and guests returned to VMI during spring reunion week, and it was a grand celebration. In addition, check out the sections highlighting New Market Day, as well as graduation and commissioning ceremonies for the class of 2013. Speaking of the class of 2013, welcome to the ranks of VMI alumni! We are proud to have you join us!

Heely ’69 and wife Lush Heely

As in previous issues, this Review includes feature articles about the following alumni: •

•

During most of his career, John Hilliard ’60 has focused on the building, maintaining, and launching of rockets and missiles. Read about how, even as a retiree, he continues to work with rockets as an amateur historian and tour guide at Cape Canaveral. Learn about how Rev. Charles A. Leggett ’93 is helping veterans and their families to get treatment for mental, emotional and psychological injuries. In the article, Leggett says, “We are trying to eliminate the bureaucratic tangle that delays vets from receiving treatment – [delays that can last] 18 to 24 months or longer.” For those interested in VMI history and legacies, don’t miss the article titled “Huger Family Legacy Predates Civil War.” Among other notable alumni, current Cadet Benjamin Huger IV ’16 is related to Scott Shipp, class of 1859, who fought at New Market, was a former VMI teacher and commandant and was VMI’s second superintendent.

In the VMI Foundation section, the Foundation bids farewell to P. William Moore Jr. ’63, who served as a trustee from July 2005 to June 2013, and to Col. Patrick F. Webb, vice president, Annual and Reunion Giving, who retired from that position on June 30, 2013, after holding it since October 2004. The Keydet Club announced two new football scholarships, one created by the Burton family and another created by John C. Lanford ’52. The Keydet Club also announced the winner of the Annual Keydet Club March Madness Challenge. Turn to that section of the magazine to learn more. We continue to highlight alumni serving in combat in the “In Theater” section, as well as those citizen-soldiers who are serving their communities, country or the world in a non-combat capacity, as shown in the “Our Alumni Serving” section. On behalf of the Alumni Association, I thank all alumni who make personal sacrifices and put their lives on the line each day in service to others. Surely, you will enjoy the letter from the superintendent that is packaged with this issue. In addition to timely news from the Institute, we benefit from seeing future plans and initiatives at VMI. Rah Virginia Mil!

Robert A. Heely ’69 President, The VMI Alumni Association, Inc.

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Serving with NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan are, from left, Lt. Col. John Ferguson ’87, Maj. Greg Wells ’02, Col. Chris Eubank ’91, Lt. Col. (P) Jim Wanovich ’91 and Lt. Col. Adrian Bogart ’81.

Alumni in Theater* Recognizing Alumni Serving in Afghanistan and Iraq * Theater is defined here as the entirety of the air, land and sea area that is involved in declared war operations at this time.

An Update The following alumni names have been received since the publication of the 2013-Issue 2 Alumni Review. This update does not include alumni names received after May 15, 2013. Once the name of an alumnus has been listed in the Review, it will not appear again, even if the alumnus is re-deployed at a later date. Not all of the alumni listed are currently serving in Theater, but they all have served at one time. Names and photographs are e-mailed to us almost every week.

Because we have to have a cut-off date for each issue, your name and picture may have arrived past that date and therefore are not published in this issue; they will be published in the next issue. Please send additions, corrections and photographs to the Alumni Review staff at: VMI Alumni Review, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450 (e-mail: review@vmiaa.org). For a complete list of names that we have received, go to http://www.vmialumni.org and click on the link titled “OEF/ OIF,” or go directly to http://www.vmialumni.org/oifoef.

Class of 2009 Johnson, Daniel S. Capt., USA Sterbenz, Christopher A. Capt., USA 2013-Issue 3

Photo above, left: Capt. Christopher Sterbenz, left, and Capt. Daniel Johnson, both class of 2009, demonstrated their VMI spirit when they were reunited in Afghanistan. Above, center: Sterbenz took aerial photos as he accompanied Blackhawk pilot Johnson on a flight over the country. Above, right: Sterbenz during his recent promotion ceremony in Jalalabad. Photos provided by William Barkley, Sterbenz’ father-in-law.

Bill Netherton ’03 and family celebrated his return from deployment.

Class of 1995 Brother Rats Jerzy Mikulski and Lt. Col. Shannon Lucas in Afghanistan.

Mike Vinacco and Tommy Cunningham, both class of 2008, showed Institute pride at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan.

A bearded Joel Harding ’97 in the back of a State Department CH-46 Sea Knight helicopter, somewhere in Kandahar Province, Afghanistan.

From left, Jason Roberts ’97, Joel Harding ’97 and Brig. Gen. Greg Otey ’87, USAF, in front of the Chancery at the embassy in Kabul, Afghanistan.

VMI Seeks Commissioning Information for Classes of 1990-2009 In order to more accurately reflect com- an Officer Candidate Program or other means other than direct commission missioning percentages at VMI, the Insti- commissioning avenue. VMI believes through VMI ROTC, please contact Lt. tute is seeking to uncover those alumni that there may be a sizeable number Col. Gary Bissell ’89, assistant chief of who have commissioned in any branch of of alumni in this category. If you com- staff, by e-mail at bissellga@vmi.edu or Maj. Alex DeVarona ’93, USA, through far left, in missioned Baghdad, after Iraq,graduation, with the sergeants hisphone unit. at 540/464-7104. service following their graduation by some in by 4

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Pasquale ’06 Finds Love in Afghanistan Editor’s Note: The following article consists of excerpts from a longer version written by Jan Pasquale, the father of Capt. Michael Pasquale ’06. It is reprinted here with his permission. Capt. Michael Pasquale was recently awarded a Bronze Star for advising and conducting several combined combat operations with the Afghan Uniform Police, Afghan Local Police, Afghan Border Police and Afghan National Army to clear villages and district centers of insurgents. This is [his] second Bronze Star; he earned the first during his March 2008 13- month deployment as part of Operation Iraqi Freedom. Based in Fort Richardson, Alaska, Michael was deployed to Afghanistan in early November 2012. He was assigned to Combat Outpost Justice, located in the region of Paktiya, near the city of Gardez. His mission has been to train the Afghanistan police. Upon arriving at his post, Michael was surprised to [see] so many wild dogs … on their own, with no one to watch out for them. American soldiers are not allowed to touch the dogs, nor are the dogs allowed to be on post. Off post, however, the soldiers can feed them leftover rations and treats. The dogs, recognizing a good source of food, wait for soldiers outside the gates. One female dog [was drawn to] Michael not long after he arrived. She had floppy ears and no tail … a border collie and German Sheppard mix. Michael named her Paktiya. The bond between the two grew quickly. She would walk behind Michael, [batting at] the back of his heels with her paws, until Michael threw some food to her. This scene repeated time and time again. Michael went on missions that took him away from the post for days and sometimes weeks. Each time he returned, Paktiya would be there waiting for him. She would trot behind him, jump in excitement and follow him wherever he went. Aware of the harsh realities of a dog’s life and knowing that winter in the mountains would make survival more difficult, Michael began to look for a way to save Paktiya. He had to find a way to send her to the United States. That’s when he found a rescue group called The Puppy Rescue Mission, Inc. (TPRM), an organization based in the U.S. that helps deployed soldiers send dogs home. The rescue mission works with The Tigger House, a local Afghanistan rescue group based in Kabul. The cost to fly a dog home is approximately $4,500, depending on the complexities of the rescue. The mission relies upon donations of soldiers, friends and family of soldiers, and TPRM donors to raise money to send dogs home. Michael contributed $1,000 of his own money, and the remaining $3,500 was raised by early January 2013. Paktiya’s journey to the U.S. began on Jan. 25th. Michael arranged for his Afghani interpreter to take her to Kabul. She was loaded onto a pickup truck for the 2-hour drive to Tigger House, where she spent the next 30 days in quarantine. On Feb. 25th, she was placed in a crate and was flown by United Arab Emirates to Dubai, where she was moved to another plane for her trip to

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JFK Airport in New York. She was scheduled to arrive on Feb. 27th and would be met by Michael’s parents. Paktiya was one of three rescue dogs from Afghanistan arriving that morning. Traveling with her were Jaxon (going to Boston) and Kunar (headed to Missouri). Once the dog was safely inside the Pasquale’s SUV, Michael’s mother snapped a picture with her cell phone and posted it on Facebook. Upon viewing the picture, Michael exclaimed, “That is not Paktiya; it’s another dog!” Capt. Michael Pasquale ’06, USA, has been awarded two bronze stars during two deployments to the Mideast. During his most recent tour in Afghanistan, he met and rescued Paktiya, a stray dog with whom Pasquale bonded.

After several frantic attempts to reach the rescue coordinator, it was confirmed that Paktiya was located at a veterinarian’s office in Queens waiting for a trip to Missouri the next day. Michael’s parents turned their car around and made the hourlong journey back to Queens to retrieve Paktiya. Apparently, the dogs were switched in Dubai when the crates were being cleaned. It was a close call. Michael is scheduled to return home to his base at Fort Richardson, Alaska, in mid June. He and Paktiya are due to reunite in August when he is assigned to a new base on the U.S. East Coast. [At the time of this writing, the reunion has not yet occurred.] Meanwhile, the Hubshers are Paktiya’s foster parents. Dr. Jeffrey Hubsher is a veterinarian who owns the South Salem Animal Hospital in South Salem, New York, and Noah’s Ark Animal Hospital in Danbury, Connecticut. At the Hubsher’s home, called Rickety Hill Farm, Paktiya is flourishing with safe places to run freely and other animals as her friends. We look forward to Michael’s reunion with Paktiya when he re-deploys home. We will update you when that special event occurs.

Paktiya lives with foster parents in South Salem, New York, awaiting Capt. Pasquale’s return.

Attending the Hanover County (Virginia) 2013 Spirit of Volunteerism Celebration were class of 1996 Brother Rats Jethro Piland, Hanover County chief of Fire and EMS; Steve Taylor, Engine and Truck Company 6 chief; and Brady Crone, Hanover County Sheriff’s Office reserve deputy.

Our Alumni Serving Recognizing Those Who Serve Others in Their Communities, Country and the World In addition to recognizing those who have served in Operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom (as shown on the previous pages), the Alumni Association would like to pay tribute to other citizen-soliders, who are, as Col. J.T.L. Preston said and as printed on the parapet, “an honor to our country and our state, objects of honest pride to their instructors ... and ready in everytime of deepest peril ... .” Those alumni whose photos and articles appear in this section of the Review could be members of the armed forces serving in non-combat capacities anywhere in the world, or they could be members of police and fire departments, doctors offering

their services to those less fortunate, alumni volunteering at food pantries or serving as Boy or Girl Scout leaders. If you or someone you know is serving others, please submit a high resolution photo (3 or 4 megapixels, minimum) taken at the location you are serving or with the people whom you serve. Along with the photo, please submit a caption that explains what your service is, where you perform it and for whom. Send these to the VMI Alumni Review staff at review@vmiaa.org or by mail to VMI Alumni Review, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450, Attention: Editor. We will review your submission and consider it for publication.

Are you or someone you know serving the community, country or the world? Send in a photo and a description of what you’re doing, where and for whom. See instructions above.

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Cadet Change of Command and Graduation Parade 2013

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New Market Day, May 15, 2013

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Total Commitment Asked of More Than 130 Commissioning Cadets Joined by jubilant friends and family, more than 135 men and women commissioned in four branches of the U.S. armed services in ceremonies held at VMI on May 15, 2013. In their remarks, the commissioning officers from all four branches of the service stressed the gravity of an officer’s responsibility toward country and others and the weight of an oath sworn “to defend the Constitution of the United States.” Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, VMI superintendent, told those commissioning, “This ceremony marks a transition for young men and women from the life of a cadet to that of an officer in the armed forces of the United States of America. It is a fulfillment of one of the central and historic purposes of the Virginia Military Institute: the formation of citizen-soldiers.” Commissioning first were more than 80 new Army officers. By the end of the summer, almost 100 men and women will have met the requirements for an Army commission from VMI. Gen. Daniel B. Allyn, U.S. Army commissioning officer, reminded the soonto-be second lieutenants of the solemn duty before them. Allyn quoted Gen. Robert E. Lee, saying, “Duty is the most sublime word in our language. Do your duty in all things. You cannot do more, and you should never wish to do less.” Elaborating on this, Allyn urged the new officers to develop a moral compass strong enough to guide them in all situations. “Know that you will be tested early and often,” he said. “You must demonstrate the moral courage to always choose the harder right over the easier wrong.” Sungkuyn “Eddie” Chang ’13, one of those newly commissioned in the U.S. Army, is following in the military tradition of his father and grandfather – but he’s sworn allegiance to a different country. Chang, a native of South Korea, obtained his U.S. citizenship while at VMI. “I wanted the opportunity to do something exciting for myself and prove my worth in American society,” said Chang, who was ranked as the No. 3 ROTC cadet in the nation. Chang will complete the Basic Officer Leadership Course at Fort Benning, 2013-Issue 3

Georgia, after leaving VMI. Then, he’ll head to Army Ranger School in preparation for what he hopes to be a long military career. “I’m very happy to be able to commission in the U.S. Army,” said Chang. That’s an opportunity that less than 1 percent of Americans get.” Almost 30 individuals commissioned in the U.S. Marine Corps, taking the oath administered by Maj. Gen. Paul W. Brier ’81. In his remarks, Brier told those commissioning that the military is “a profession that deals with matters of life and death of individuals and nations.” He added, “Our efforts are our values in action. … It is our values, not our weapons, that are the basis of our success, both on and off the battlefield.” Newly commissioned Marine 2nd Lt. Sean Noll ’13 stepped outside of Jackson Memorial Hall and rendered his first salute to his father, Greg Noll. The two men shook hands, exchanged a long glance and then embraced twice. The younger Noll presented his father with an Eisenhower silver dollar minted in

1972 – the year that the elder Noll was commissioned into the U.S. Air Force. “The entire reason I came to VMI has just come to a close,” said Noll, who attended VMI on a Marine Corps scholarship. “The whole purpose of my coming to VMI was to get my commission.” Noll, along with the other newly commissioned Marine Corps officers, will attend The Basic School at Quantico, Virginia, for six months, after a temporary assignment as assistant commandant of cadets at VMI. The U.S. Navy gained 14 new ensigns at VMI, with two more due to commission by the end of the summer. Commissioning officer for the Navy, Rear Adm. Sandy Daniels, reminded those commissioning that the U.S. military’s move to an allvolunteer force, made under President Richard Nixon over 40 years ago, has been a resounding success – but the military can only maintain its strength through the efforts of individuals. “You are the most powerful weapon there is,” she said. “You need to serve in a way that honors the cloth of our nation.”

Viewing the Chesty Puller Award, 1st Marine Division, was Virginia Dabney, daughter of the late Lt. Gen. Lewis B. “Chesty” Puller ’921 and widow of Col. Bill Dabney ’61, USMC, with Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, VMI superintendent. This award is given to the commissioning Marine with the highest quality of leadership. For the class of 2013, the award was presented to Thomas Battiata ’13, a civil engineering major from Mechanicsville, Virginia. VMI photo by John Robertson IV.

Among those commissioning in the Navy was Ensign Joshua D. Lawrence ’13, who followed his grandfather, Dean Rogers, into the Navy. “My grandfather was a naval aviator. So, in ninth grade of high school, I joined the junior ROTC program there,” said Lawrence. “I’m kind of following in his footsteps.” Rogers, who retired from the

Navy as a commander, was not only on hand to see his grandson commission – he also served as his commissioning officer. 10

Lawrence now reports to Pensacola, Florida, for approximately two years of flight training there. A biology major, he noted that he was the only non-engineer in this year’s group to be selected for pilot. Administering the oath to 12 individuals commissioning in the U.S. Air Force was Maj. Gen. Eugene Haase. In his remarks, Haase revealed that he had joined the Air Force ROTC unit at the University of Minnesota out of an admittedly selfish desire to fly. Accepting a commission, however, brought an end to his focus on self. “The commitment you make must be total – all in, all of the time,” he said. “The high ground is the place you must ride, and it will not be easy.” Second Lt. Alex Sharp ’13, one of those commissioning in the Air Force, said he’d always been fascinated with flight. “I wanted to do something with engineering. The Air Force has the

coolest R and D, and I’ve always loved airplanes,” explained Sharp. After graduation, Sharp reports to Edwards Air Force Base in California, working as a research and development engineer. Ultimately, Sharp would like to be a flight test engineer, in charge of designing tests to be carried out by test pilots. A mechanical engineering major at VMI, Sharp has already had a chance to explore his passion for flight. In summer 2012, he had an internship at the Air Force Institute of Technology, located at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. There, he studied flapping wing vehicles. The Institute’s recognition of graduating cadets electing to serve in the military is held on New Market Day in commemoration of the cadets who fought at the battle of New Market on May 15, 1864. Editor’s Note: The preceding article was produced by the VMI Communications and Marketing organization and originally appeared on vmi.edu. Commissioning photos by VMI, Kevin Remington and John Robertson IV. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

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Graduates Admonished to be “Men and Women of Principle” Almost 300 graduates of VMI were reminded of their obligations to serve, to lead, and to live lives of purpose and honor in commencement ceremonies held in Cameron Hall on May 16, 2013. Addressing the graduates this year was Virginia Gov. Robert F. “Bob” McDonnell, now in his last year in office. Many of this year’s graduates had marched in McDonnell’s inaugural parade in January 2010, during their fourth class year, and the governor made reference to their “spectacular” appearance there as he began his speech. McDonnell, who served in the military himself for over two decades, opened his remarks by acknowledging the sizable percentage of cadets in this year’s class who chose to commission in the armed services. “That’s a superb tribute to how much this Institute contributes to the defense of the United States of America,” McDonnell commented. In his remarks, McDonnell spoke of the contributions of many famous people associated with VMI, among them Thomas J. “Stonewall” Jackson and alumni

Matt Waalkes ’13 was the class valedictorian. Above, he is shown receiving his diploma from Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent. VMI photo by Kevin Remington.

George C. Marshall ’901 and Jonathan Daniels ’61, a civil rights martyr. He then mentioned two VMI graduates whose names made the news in April: Maj. Gen. Joseph D. Brown ’80, a veteran pilot who died along with his wife, Susan,

when the plane he was piloting went down near the Williamsburg, Virginia, airport on April 19, and Richard “Dic” Donohue ’02, an officer of the Massachusetts Bay Transit Authority who was critically injured the very next day

Jenna Moye ’13, a biology major from Moseley, Virginia, received the Society of the Cincinnati Medal, which is given for efficiency in service and excellence of character, and the Richard J. Marshall and Sumter L. Lowry awards. Above, she is shown accepting her diploma from Gen. Peay. VMI photo by Kevin Remington.

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in a gun battle with the suspects in the Boston Marathon bombings. “VMI doesn’t just produce graduates,” said McDonnell. “VMI produces leaders. Today, you take your place among those leaders.” Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, VMI superintendent, also acknowledged the leadership of the class of 2013 and urged the graduates to keep the Institute’s ideals in mind. “Hold onto your concept of honor,” said Peay. “That is the foundation stone, the bedrock, the very essence of VMI. … People will hold you to a higher standard, because you are a VMI graduate.” Giving a speech that offered a rare mix of existentialism and humor was Matthew Waalkes, valedictorian of the class of 2013. Waalkes’ remarks brought first laughter of recognition, then cheers and finally a standing ovation from his Brother Rats. “We have been marching to the beat of VMI’s drums for so long (thanks to Band Company), that when their sound rapidly faded away, we found ourselves wondering why we have been marching in the first place,” said Waalkes. He went on to discuss the metamorphoses that have occurred in the class from Matriculation Day – Aug. 22, 2009 – to today. Waalkes remarked, “From the trials

of the Ratline to graduation which we celebrate today, the class of 2013 has become a distinct community, filled with the motivators who led a sometimes reluctant Corps to do what was needed to be done, as well as the goofballs … who reminded us that excellence in VMI’s monotonous routine should not be the most important goal in life.” It is just that community that will sustain the graduates in the years to come, said Waalkes, as he invited his fellow graduates to pause, reflect and gather into memory all of those who have created and sustained their VMI experience. “Look around at your Brother Rats; look around at the faculty and staff,” said Waalkes. “And look at all the friends of the Institute that you may never have known if it were not for this experience. …Surrounding each of us here today are friends, family members, faculty and staff, and Brother Rats who will be an indispensable part of our lives, providing us with the strength, wisdom and love we need to proceed to a life of virtue.” It is this virtuous life that each cadet is called to lead, Waalkes noted, saying VMI has prepared him or her well for the challenge. Waalkes continued, “Essentially our world needs women and men of principle who will stand for values and beliefs despite the costs, despite

any ridicule or scorn. This challenge to persevere in virtue undoubtedly dwarfs the trials of VMI.” Waalkes, a biology major from Waynesboro, Virginia, received the Wilbur S. Hinman Jr. ’26 Research Award in Natural Science and Mathematics at the Institute Awards Convocation a few days earlier. Waalkes also received the First Jackson-Hope Medal and the Cmdr. Harry Millard Mason Academic Proficiency Award. Both are given to the cadet with the highest grade point average. The Second Jackson Hope Medal and the Col. Sterling Murray Heflin 1916 Academic Proficiency Award were awarded to Sungkuyn “Eddie” Chang, a computer science major from Port Washington, New York. Receiving the Society of the Cincinnati Medal, which is given for efficiency in service and excellence of character, was Jenna Moye, a biology major from Moseley, Virginia. Moye was also awarded the Richard J. Marshall and Sumter L. Lowry Awards. Editor’s Note: The preceding article was produced by the VMI Communications and Marketing organization and originally appeared on vmi.edu. Graduation photos by VMI, Kevin Remington and John Robertson IV.

Virginia Governor McDonnell: Commencement Speaker Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell offered the graduation address at VMI’s commencement ceremony on May 16, 2013, in Cameron Hall. McDonnell, who attended the University of Notre Dame on an Army ROTC scholarship, served a total of 21 years in the U.S. Army on active duty and in the reserve. After leaving active duty and earning a law degree from Regent University, he continued his career in public service as a prosecutor in the Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. McDonnell began his political career in 1991, having been elected to the Virginia House of Delegates. He served the Virginia Beach community in this capacity until 2005, when he was sworn in as the attorney general of Virginia. He was elected the 71st governor of Virginia in 2009.

McDonnell

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About McDonnell’s address, Cadet John Dommert of Chester, Virginia, graduating class president, said, “We are honored to have our governor visit the Institute and take part in sending the class of 2013 into the world.”

In Memory of Bruce B. Cameron Jr. ’38 by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation

Recipient of both the VMI Foundation’s Distinguished in which it is housed Cameron Hall. In May 1997, Service Award and VMI Keydet Club’s Spirit of VMI Award UNCW presented Cameron and his brother, Daniel, as well as a loyal alumnus and generous benefactor of the with honorary doctorates. Institute, Bruce B. Cameron Jr. ’38 died on April 3, 2013, Such was Cameron’s devotion to the betterment at his home in Wilmington, North Carolina. He was 95. of his hometown that, in May 2003, the local As a cadet, Cameron was a civil engineering major and newspaper, the Star-News, named him and Daniel a proud private for his entire cadetship. Known to his Cameron as two of the inaugural recipients of its Brother Rats as “B.B.,” he was a member of the rifle and Lifetime Achievement Award. After his funeral on pistol teams. As a member of the latter, according to his April 8th, an attendee declared him to be “a great history in the Bomb, he was renowned as a “crack shot” man” and, citing Daniel Cameron, said, “I don’t and had “a remarkable record on the range.” Evidence know anyone who has done as much for southeastof the respect with which he was held in his class were ern North Carolina as the Camerons have … in any these words in his history: “It may be that B.B.’s records way, shape or form.” will be forgotten, but we feel certain that the man that Members of the VMI family also will remember made them will not.” Cameron’s involvement with VMI. While his In 1941, Cameron entered the U.S. Army. He initially brother, grandson – Adair M. Graham Jr. ’99 – and served at Fort Bliss, Texas, but later was transferred to two brothers-in-law – John M. Camp Jr. ’40 and the Far East and served in the New Guinea campaign. W.M. “Red” Echols ’39 – are alumni, there was more He left military service in 1945 at the grade of major. than just the family connection that prompted his Cameron Jr. ’38 After the war, Cameron returned to his hometown of interest and his generosity. “Like Dan, Bruce loved Wilmington to assume the position of president of the VMI, and he was deeply attached to it and strongly family business, MacMillan & Cameron, of which his father and namecommitted to its success,” said Warren J. Bryan ’71. “Truly, there was sake had been president until his early death in 1944. When Cameron no aspect of VMI in which he was not interested in supporting.” He took over MacMillan & Cameron, the business primarily consisted of and his brother were the major donors of funds for the construction of oil distribution, service stations and an automobile dealership. Under Cameron Hall, which opened in 1981. They also established the Cameron his direction and that of his brother, Daniel Cameron ’42, the company Professorship in Physics and Astronomy in 2002. became a regional leader in real estate development and was involved He also was especially keen on seeing young people from his hometown in numerous types of businesses over the years, which included, for come to VMI and reap the benefits from its education as he and his example, starting the first television station in Wilmington in the midyounger brother had done. To that end, he and his brother established 1950s. Cameron and his brother were also largely responsible for the the Cameron Scholarship in October 2001 with a preference for award growth and success of the preeminent Pepsi-Cola bottling operation to cadets from the city of Wilmington and New Hanover County, North on the East Coast – Atlantic Pepsi – which they took public in 1979. Carolina. Since the first awards were made to three cadets in the 2002He also played a major role in the economic development efforts in 03 academic year, the scholarship has awarded more than $1 million to Wilmington, especially after the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad moved qualified cadets. In the current academic year, nine cadets are receiving its headquarters to Jacksonville, Florida, in 1960. These efforts were almost $89,000. All told, 26 cadets have received assistance from the successful in attracting many companies to the area, including Corning. Cameron Scholarship, not including five other individuals who will Cameron was a true visionary and renowned for his uncanny ability start VMI this fall. to see years down the road. Of all the different ventures in which he was Despite his many business interests and civic responsibilities, Cameron involved, none better illustrates this than when, in 1955, he purchased also gave generously of his time. He served on the VMI Foundation’s the barren island north of Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, which Board of Trustees from 1976-79 and again from 1992-99. He was a had just been decimated the prior year by Hurricane Hazel. Almost member of the Institute’s Board of Visitors from 1980-88. He is one of everyone believed him to be “a fool” to think that anyone would ever the few people who have received the highest honor of both the VMI want to buy a lot on what is now one of the most premiere beaches on Foundation and the VMI Keydet Club. In 1988, the VMI Foundation the East Coast, Figure 8 Island. presented him with its Distinguished Service Award, and the VMI Keydet He also was heavily involved in other civic affairs in the Wilmington Club presented him – and, posthumously, his brother – with its Spirit area, such as the Boys and Girls Clubs, the New Hanover Regional of VMI Award in 2009. Medical Center and the Lower Cape Fear Hospice. He provided gener“Mr. Cameron was truly a giant among VMI alumni,” said the Institute’s ous support to these and many other organizations in the Wilmington superintendent, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, U.S. Army (Ret). “His area. Cameron led the fundraising campaign and donated the land to decades of service and support to his alma mater and support of cadets build a new museum building for the Louise Wells Cameron Museum touched so many of the points of excellence that make VMI the outstandof Art – known as the St. John’s Museum of Art until 2002, when it was ing institution it is today. His impact will be felt long into the future. renamed in honor of his late wife, Louise, who died in 1997. A strong supCameron had a lifelong passion for fishing, hunting, the outdoors and porter of the University of North Carolina-Wilmington (UNCW), along land. His two favorite places on earth were Figure 8 Island and his huntwith his brother, Daniel, he helped bring about its transformation from ing camp in Hyde County, appropriately referred to as “Camp Hyde Out”. Wilmington College to a full-fledged university and also established the Cameron’s wife of 49 years, Louise Wells Cameron, predeceased him, business school at the university. The UNCW later honored this support as did a son and daughter. He is survived by two daughters, 10 grandby naming it the Cameron School of Business and naming the building children, 10 great-grandchildren and a sister.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

Cameron’s Legacy Lives On

In Memory of Paul Douglas Camp Marks ’46 by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation

by Zachary P. Judson ’14 Emerson wrote that, “The purpose of life is to be honorable, compassionate and to have it make some difference.” Mr. Cameron is the difference in many cadets’ lives, and without his help, many of us would not have been able to attend this great institution. He has blessed me with his generosity and kindness throughout my cadetship. Thanks to his generosity, I was able to choose a path that will benefit my life, so that one day I can make a difference in the lives of others. Mr. Cameron was tough, but he wanted to make sure I reached my full potential. He loved listening to my stories, while telling me what the Old Corps was like, and respected that I was not “doing ordinary.” I could not thank him enough for his kindness toward me and for my years at Virginia Military Institute. – Zachary P. Judson ’14 is a recipient of the Cameron Scholarship. In academic year 2013-14, Cadet Judson will be the president of the Honor Court as well as an S-5 regimental lieutenant. He is majoring in mechanical engineering and plans to commission in the U.S. Navy and become a naval aviator after graduation.

Cadet Zachary Judson ’14 with his Ring Figure date, Kasity Nelson, at the Ring Presentation Ceremony for the class of 2014 on Nov.16, 2012.

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On April 10, 2013, Paul Douglas Camp Marks forces in and around Nuremberg, where he ’46 died at his home in Franklin, Virginia. He often sat in the balcony with Gen. Waters, was 88. observing the War Crime Trials. The son of the late Robert F. Marks and Texie After leaving military service in 1946, Marks Camp Marks, he is the nephew of three brothreturned to Southampton County and became ers who attended VMI – John a farmer. He was very acM. Camp ’905, Paul R. Camp tive in civic affairs in the ’904 and Paul Douglas Camp area. He was a member of Jr. ’924 – and the father of the Capron Ruritan Club Paul Douglas Camp Marks and the Capron United Jr. ’69. He also is related Methodist Church. He also to many other alumni, inserved on the Southampton cluding John M. Camp Jr. County School Board, and ’40, as well as Elizabeth M. he was a member of the Camp, who served on the board of directors of the VMI Board of Visitors from Windsor Rural Electric 2005-13. Administration for 50 years. After he graduated from He also was a director of the Woodberry Forest the Ruth Camp Campbell School, Marks matriculated Foundation, the Campat the Institute in fall 1942. Younts Foundation and the He was a cadet for only Camp Foundation. Marks ’46 seven months before beAn enthusiastic sportsing inducted into the U.S. man, Marks helped found Army. During his short stay Indiantown Hunt Club in at VMI, he was a member of the Glee Club Capron, Virginia, in 1946, and he was well and played on the Rat basketball team, during known for his love of fishing on the Nottoway which he was high scorer in one of the games River. After his retirement, he and his wife, against VPI. His short tenure at the Institute Joan, became passionate travelers. was not a rarity for Rats that year. According As with many of the Brother Rats of the to his Brother Rat, Bill Eliason, “90 percent class of 1946, a short time as a cadet did not, of our class did not make it through the first according to Eliason, “preclude undying year.” After training at Fort Eustis, he went loyalty to the Institute” on the part of Marks. on to serve in an anti-aircraft unit with the He remained a loyal alumnus and Brother Rat famous 1st Infantry Division, the “Big Red throughout his life and took a keen interest One,” in northwest Europe. He fought during in the progress of VMI. Along with his son, he the Battle of the Bulge and later saw action at was instrumental in establishing two scholRemagen Bridge. Just as the war was about to arships at the Institute: the Paul D. Camp end, he was sent to France for a three-week Memorial Scholarship and the Paul D. Camp crash course to prepare him for promotion Scholarship for Merit. His son recalled, “Dad to second lieutenant. During the summer of loved the Institute and was vitally interested 1945, he was serving as a platoon leader when in its well being. He was primarily interested he was summoned by the assistant commander in maintaining those core values at VMI that of the division, Brig. Gen. William E. Waters were so important in his life: honesty, disci’921. Gen. Waters, said to him, “Lt. Marks, I pline, perseverance and loyalty.” hear you’re a VMI man. I need an aide-de-camp. Marks is survived by his wife, Joan Loftin Do you want the job?” Marks asked if he could Marks of Franklin, and a sister, Frances Marks think about it for a day or two. Waters replied, Parker of Wilmington, North Carolina. He “Son, that was a yes-or-no question!” Marks was predeceased by his brother, Robert F. took the job on the spot. He later wrote of that Marks Jr. ’53, who attended VMI for one period, “That was great duty for a 20-year-old year before transferring to VPI. He is also farm boy. Gen. Waters treated me like a son. survived by six children, three stepchildren, In fact, he never referred to me as ‘lieutenant’ 12 grandchildren, 10 step-grandchildren, or ‘Marks.’ He always called me ‘son.’” In this seven great-grandchildren and six step-greatassignment, Marks was part of the occupation grandchildren.

In Memory of Peter M. Meredith Sr. ’50B by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation

Peter Marshall Meredith Sr.’50B, a recipient of the VMI Founthe problems that some might associate with a family business, dation’s Distinguished Service Award, passed away on March Meredith dismissed them, saying, “The work is fun, because you 27, 2013. work with people you like.” Matriculating from Norfolk, Virginia, as a cadet, Meredith was Civic and charitable work was a major part of Meredith’s life. a civil engineering major, in which capacity he earned academic Once asked why it was so, he replied, “It gives great pleasure. stars. He also was a member of the VMI wrestling team for his It’s my duty to help others, and it’s a great joy to realize I can entire cadetship and excelled in Southern Conference competihelp.” Among the organizations with which he was involved tion. According to his history in the Bomb, his are the Norfolk Collegiate School, St. Paul’s “hearty laughter and his guitar playing … enlivEpiscopal Church, the Episcopal Diocese ened many a Barracks party and Goshen picnic.” of Southern Virginia, the General Douglas Furthermore, he did all this while maintaining MacArthur Foundation, Goodwill Industries the rank with which he started his cadetship; he and the Trinity Episcopal Seminary. He was was a four-year cadet private. on the President’s Advisory Council of VirAfter serving in the U.S. Air Force, Meredith ginia Weslyan College and was a member of returned home in 1953 and joined his family’s the William & Mary Parents’ Council and a firm, Meredith Construction Company, Inc., taklifetime member of its President’s Council. ing over its day-to-day operations in 1955. At that The Institute always was at the center of time, he recalled in a 2004 interview, his ambihis charitable activities, perhaps because VMI tions were basic: “to keep my men working.” The was central to his family life. Not only are he company began to build private homes and then and his sons alumni, but his brother-in-law, started bidding for federal contracts. Meredith Richard B. Trumbo ’54, and two nephews recalled, “The federal government favored low also are graduates. A charter member of The bidders, and because of our size and our labor Institute Society, he was heavily involved in situation, we were able to make better estimates his class’s 25th and 50th Reunion Campaigns. of real costs – especially related to crew size – and He served on the Parents’ Council for eight thus produce more attractive bids.” After winning years, from 1970-78, and was a trustee of Meredith ’50B and then executing a contract to rehabilitate a the VMI Foundation from 1986-92. Along building for the Navy, the company was well on with his wife, he was a major benefactor of its way to success – and Meredith was on his way the restoration of Neikirk Hall, the home of to fulfilling a prediction in his Bomb history of “success in the the VMI Foundation and the VMI Keydet Club, which honors his engineering industry”. long-time friend and executive vice president of the VMI FoundaBesides the construction and renovation of private homes, the tion, Joseph D. Neikirk ’32. company executed projects at Norfolk Collegiate School and Old The focus of the Meredith family’s efforts on behalf of VMI is the Dominion University. It has performed work for the U.S. Armed Meredith Family Scholarship. Established in 1976 by Mr. and Mrs. Forces, including the construction of buildings for the Navy and Meredith in honor of their sons, the scholarship’s initial endowthe Coast Guard and the renovation of buildings at Fort Monroe ment was then the largest at VMI – $60,000 – and Meredith added and of the Marine Barracks at Norfolk Naval Base. The latter to the endowment whenever he had the opportunity. His continuprojects proved challenging, because the status of the buildings ing generosity and that of his family have allowed the scholarship as National Historical Landmarks meant that their exteriors to generate more than $1 million in financial aid since 1977 and, could not be changed. in the most recent academic year, supported eight cadets. Under Meredith’s leadership, Meredith Construction Company For his service to the VMI Foundation and the Institute, the VMI branched out into property management, real estate development Foundation presented him with its Distinguished Service Award and residential construction throughout the Hampton Roads (DSA) on Founders Day in 1999. In response to the news he had area. He and his family also extended their business interests to been chosen to receive the DSA, he said, “Helping VMI truly is a Lexington by purchasing and renovating three historic properlabor of love, and I have never hesitated to do it. ‘Working’ – if ties that they operated for many years as Historic Country Inns you want to call it that – on behalf of VMI has allowed me to meet of Lexington. For that renovation work, the Historic Lexington and socialize with several generations of VMI cadets and alumni, Foundation presented the family its Founders Award. and I have to admit I have enjoyed it immensely.” Although it rapidly developed into a multi-million dollar busi“Peter Meredith touched many lives here at the Institute ness, Meredith Construction remained very much a family operathrough the years,” said VMI’s superintendent, Gen. J.H. Binford tion. Peter M. Meredith Jr. ’74 now serves as chairman and chief Peay III ’62. “His strong leadership has inspired many alumni to executive officer, and his brother, Richard P. Meredith ’78, is the service and support. He will be missed.” president. One sister, Susan, was the vice president and head of Meredith is survived by his wife of 62 years, Susan Pope Trumbo the private construction division, and the other sister, Sunshine, Meredith; two sons; two daughters; 13 grandchildren; and two was the company’s treasurer and chief financial officer. As to great-grandchildren.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

Hilliard ’60 Has Long History with Cape Canaveral by Rich Griset, Contributing Writer

t a time when most teenagers are engaged in their first romances, John Hilliard ’60 was kindling a life-long love of his own – rockets. The son of an Air Force officer, Hilliard spent much of his high school days on the sands of Cocoa Beach, Florida, watching rockets from Cape Canaveral take flight.

But perhaps his most intriguing pursuit has been documenting the history of American rocket and missile launches. His efforts to capture an ongoing chapter of American history have filled 48, 4-inch binders. “I’m trying to get a picture of every launch from Cape Canaveral and Vandenberg,” says Hilliard. “I have about 6,000 pictures. It’s a very unique thing.” Hilliard was born in Morgantown, West Virginia, and moved around quite a bit. He attended 17 different schools growing up and was the first military dependent to go to Europe in 1946. In 1953, Hilliard’s father got the word that his next posting would be Patrick Air Force Base on the Atlantic Coast of Florida. It was there that Hilliard was first introduced to missiles, and he did his best to get as close to them as possible. Even after he went away to VMI, Hilliard returned every summer to Cape Canaveral to work in John Hilliard ’60 works with rockets as an amateur historian and tour guide at Cape Canaveral. Above, he is pictured in Hangar R with missiles in the backsome capacity. His various ground. jobs included setting up cameras for RCA, working as a surveyor and serving “When I heard a launch was going to as an assistant to the director for range occur, I’d drive up on the beach as close development. At VMI, he began to get a as I could and watch it,” says 75-year-old reputation for his love of missiles. “I became known somewhat as a ‘misHilliard. “Other times, I just heard the noise and ran out to the yard to watch it.” sile man,’ because I brought up films In the six decades since Hilliard’s from the Cape of the launches,” says obsession was first ignited, most of Hilliard, adding that his film of launch his career has focused on the building, failures was especially popular with the maintaining, and launching of rockets cadets. The 1960 Bomb includes a photo and missiles. Even as a retiree from the of Hilliard standing beneath a missile at military and private sectors, Hilliard the Cape. Upon graduating from VMI with a continues to work with rockets as an degree in electrical engineering, Hillamateur historian and tour guide at iard was picked up by the Air Force and Cape Canaveral. He also volunteers for reported to Warren Air Force Base near the public affairs office of the 45th Space Cheyenne, Wyoming. For the next four Wing and escorts members of the press years, he served as a combat missile crew for launchings. 2013-Issue 3

“VMI ... taught me how to use my time. You just didn’t play around.”

commander at an underground weapons site. “We sat out in the middle of the prairie with a 4-megaton nuclear weapon sitting on an Atlas missile,” Hilliard says. “We were on 15-minute alert, meaning if we got the call, we were ready to launch within 15 minutes.” His next post was launching the country’s first photo reconnaissance satellites at Vandenberg Air Force Base near Lompoc, California. He then spent three years building satellites for the Air Force at Eastman Kodak in Rochester, New York. In 1971, Hilliard was sent to Washington, D.C., holding posts at the Pentagon, the CIA and NSA. His last position was working for the secretary of defense during the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks with the Soviet Union. He retired from the service in 1983 as a colonel and took a job with Analytic Services Inc., eventually becoming vice president of space systems. Upon retiring in 1998, Hilliard returned to Florida with his wife and began volunteering at Cape Canaveral. He enjoys interacting with people at both locations but has found his true calling as a historian of launches. When he began, Hilliard only had a couple hundred photos of launches from the Cape. Currently his collection numbers in the thousands. Not including weather rockets, Hilliard says he’s missing photos for about 65 percent of the launches from Vandenberg. “I probably will not find them all, unless I can find someone who has them in their desk at home,” says Hilliard of the missing photos. “The government did not keep pictures of all these launches.” Hilliard has documented more than 500 different U.S. missile systems and is working to document all missiles launched from the Johnston Atoll in the Pacific Ocean. At some point, he plans to donate his collection either to the government or one of the museums at which he volunteers. Until he’s reached that point, Hilliard plans to continue to add to his collection. With his successful career of pursuing what he loves, Hilliard credits VMI for much of what he has accomplished. “VMI forced me to study,” Hilliard says. “They taught me how to use my time. You just didn’t play around.” “VMI really set me on the path to do what I did in this world.” 18

From left, Andy Anderson, Canaveral Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association publicity director; then-Brig. Gen. Boldon Jr., NASA administrator, who has since been promoted to major general; and Hilliard in front of a Delta IV rocket.

Hilliard at the Air Force Space & Missile History Center, explaining the Atlas missile booster engine.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

Leggett ’93 Leads Important Mission to Help Vets by George Abry, Contributing Writer

ev. Charles A. Leggett ’93 was a minister at Westhaven Baptist Church in Portsmouth when he heard that a good friend, Lt. Cmdr. David L. Williams ’91, USN, had died during the terrorist attack on the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001. “When that happened, I felt a strong pull back to the military to serve as a chaplain,” said Leggett, an Army Reserve chaplain who serves as the group chaplain for the 2nd U.S. Army Reserve Mobilization Support Group, headquartered at Fort Still, Oklahoma. The group is responsible for 20 mobilization support battalions in seven states. “Initially, I pursued the Air Force, but thanks to a very persuasive Army chaplain from the 1st Cavalry Division, I accepted a commission from the Army instead.” Leggett grew up in Richmond, Virginia, and graduated from Manchester High School, where he learned about VMI through an alumnus who had been invited to speak to his government class. The speaker was Wyatt Durrette Jr. ’61, who impressed Leggett. “After hearing [Durrette] speak and talking with him, I decided that I wanted to attend VMI.” At VMI, Leggett majored in history with minors in English and Spanish. He was a corporal and sergeant in Charlie Company, an officer of the VMI Glee Club, a member of the VMI Civil War Round Table and cadet-in-charge of cadet assistants at the VMI Museum. Despite his packed schedule, Leggett never lost sight of his spiritual responsibilities. He was actively involved with the Religious Activities Committee, twice serving as a project officer for the Religious Emphasis Weekend. He also worked with the Officer’s Christian Fellowship and the VMI Spirit Squad, and he wrote articles for the VMI Bomb. Leggett initially pursued a commission as a pilot but was cut from the program 2013-Issue 3

during his Rat year because of his eyesight. During the second semester of his first class year, he felt that he had been called to the ministry instead of the armed services. After graduation, he accepted an interim youth minister position at his hometown church, Bon Air Baptist, in Richmond, while attending the Baptist Theological Seminary. He earned his master of divinity degree in May 1997. Before entering the Army, he had served at four churches. In January 2003, Leggett reported to the U.S. Army Chaplain Center and School at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, where he completed the Chaplain Basic Officer’s Course and then went di-

rectly to his first duty station at Fort Hood, Texas. His first unit was the 3rd Battalion, 82nd Field Artillery, 2nd Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. “By the time I marked my first anniversary as an Army chaplain, I was in Kuwait, preparing to move north into Baghdad,” Leggett said. He served on active duty as an Army chaplain from 2003-11, deploying to Iraq with the 1st Cavalry Division from January 2004 through February 2005 and with the 214th Fires Brigade from July 2007 through October 2008. According to Leggett, clerical ministry is one of three occupations with the highest suicide rates. “Helping others cope with and overcome their own emotional baggage through counseling involves a certain degree of emotional transference to the counselor,” Leggett said. When you take that emotional transference and place it in the middle Leggett, an Army Reserve chaplain, serves as the group chaplain of a combat zone, the outcome for the 2nd U.S. Army Reserve can be negative. Mobilization Support Group, headEven though chaplains are quartered at Fort Still, Oklahoma. known to be non-combatants

A concert titled “Vets Rock n’ Relief” was held in Los Angeles, California, on April 21, 2013, to benefit The Silent War Foundation. Pictured above were, second from right, Rev. Charles Leggett ’93, with his wife, Mandy, far right, and other members of the foundation board. The Elton John look-alike is the band leader for the group “Elton-The Early Years,” Kenny Metcalf.

who don’t carry guns, Leggett was shot at routinely and endured near-misses from mortar rounds and IEDs on his tours of duty. During a post-active duty Veterans Administration (VA) screening, Leggett was informed by the staff psychologist that he showed symptoms identical to those of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, he was told that he couldn’t be diagnosed with PTSD since he wasn’t a combat soldier. “Which is why I was given a 30% rating for ‘anxiety disorder not otherwise specified,’ as opposed to the 50% or higher rating which is standard for PTSD,” Leggett said. When the VA failed to take his and other veterans’ psychological symptoms more seriously, he decided to do something about it. In September 2012, Leggett founded The Silent War Foundation, a non-profit organization that helps veterans and their

families get treatment for mental, emotional and psychological injuries. “[We don’t only put] them in touch with the right organizations, but we link them directly and immediately to a health care provider in their area so they can receive treatment, and we cover the bill for them – at no cost to the veterans or their families,” said Leggett. “We are trying to eliminate the bureaucratic tangle that delays vets from receiving treatment – [delays that can last] 18 to 24 months or longer.” The Silent War Foundation also wants to raise awareness about the staggering number of veteran suicides. “To date, there have been no headlines, no major news coverage of any kind, despite a death toll that exceeded 8,000 in 2012, with a daily death count of 22 veterans – one every 65 minutes,” Leggett said. “Our veterans are dying at a rate that

eclipses combat deaths.” Leggett credits VMI with instilling in him a personal code of honor and integrity that sustains him on his grim mission. For him, turning away is not an option. “[From VMI], I gained the core principles that have given my life meaning and purpose for the last two decades and continue to help me move forward one day at a time,” Leggett said. “But most of all, I came to appreciate the ties of brotherhood and sisterhood. I learned what it meant to see those around me not as strangers but as family, to feel the common bonds that unite, and to never leave a brother or sister fallen on the ground.” To learn more about The Silent War Foundation, visit: www.silentwarfoundation.org or contact Rev. Charles A. Leggett ’93, executive director, at chappy@silentwarfoundation.org.

Huger Family Legacy Predates Civil War by George Abry, Contributing Writer

hen Benjamin Huger IV ’16 (Huger IV’s great-great grandfather), signed VMI’s matriculation George Audley Derbyshire ’899, was a book, he renewed a cadet first captain who served family legacy that predates the as commandant of cadets from Civil War and contains forebears 1917-19. In 1945, he retired to who served in the upper ranks Spring Meadows, a farm located of VMI. “Every generation of just south of Lexington. Upon my family on the Huger side, his death in 1962, Huger ’22 and excluding my dad’s generation, Anne moved to Spring Meadows. went to VMI,” Huger IV said. Anne and Scott Shipp Huger Huger IV’s lineage can be ’22 had three sons, two of whom Huger ’16 traced to Scott Shipp (1839were Benjamin Huger Jr. ’56, 1917), who graduated from VMI who matriculated with the in 1859 and served as commanclass of 1956 but left VMI after dant of cadets from 1862-89. Shipp took a single semester, and George Derbyshire the field with cadets at New Market in “Derby” Huger ’62. Another son, Scott 1864, where he was injured in the con- Shipp Huger Jr. ’53, interrupted his test. Over the years, Shipp also taught cadetship to fight in Korea; he returned math, Latin and tactics. In 1890, Shipp from Korea but died in November 1954 became VMI’s second superintendent, in an automobile accident in Lexington the first VMI alumnus to do so. while a first classman. A plaque in MemoIn 1898, Huger IV’s great-great grand- rial Garden memorializes his life. father, Benjamin Huger ’893, married If the Huger legacy sounds like a lot Shipp’s daughter, Lucy. They begat two for young Huger IV to shoulder, so far sons: Scott Shipp Huger ’22 and Benja- he hasn’t had time to sweat those details. min Huger Jr. ’34. Huger ’22 was born in He’s been studying business and econom1902 in the VMI superintendent quarters ics while playing lacrosse. during the incumbency of Gen. Scott “I would definitely say it helps me Shipp, for whom he was named. work harder here,” said Huger IV, who In 1929, Scott Shipp Huger ’22 mar- is thinking of becoming a stock broker. ried Anne Derbyshire, whose father “I don’t feel like it’s a lot to measure up 20

to. I just want to keep the Huger name a good one at VMI.” Scott Shipp ’859 retired from VMI in 1907 as superintendent emeritus. He spent the remainder of his life in Lexington, where several Huger family members became business and civic leaders in the community.

Cadet Benjamin Huger ’893. Photo courtesy VMI Archives.

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In 1901, Huger ’893 organized the Huger-Davidson-Sale wholesale company in Lexington; Huger ’22 succeeded his father as president of the company. From 1955-57, Huger ’22 also served two terms as president of The VMI Alumni Association. In 1956, he was appointed to the VMI Board of Visitors, serving two terms until 1964. Benjamin Huger Jr. ’34 succeeded his brother (Huger ’22) as president of Huger-Davidson-Sale, in 1972, the year Huger ’22 died. Eventually George Derbyshire Huger ’62 became president of Huger-Davidson-Sale before selling the company in 2002 and retiring. Today several offspring of Huger ’62 call Lexington home. Huger IV’s host family includes Kevin and Anne Huger Remington, whose brother, George Huger Jr., owns the Southern Inn restaurant, a long-running Lexington establishment. Brother Fred Huger runs a dairy farm in nearby Fairfield. Another son, Arthur Huger, lives in Hoboken, New Jersey. Huger ’62 lives in North Fort Myers, Florida, but has a home at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia. “None of my children went to VMI, and none of my brother’s children went to VMI,” said Huger ’62. “Now my brother has a grandson there, but there was a generation skipped at VMI.” Huger IV’s cadetship has enabled him to reopen his own father’s early memories of Lexington. Even though Benjamin Huger III didn’t attend VMI, he spent childhood summers at Spring Meadows and made trips into Lexington. “Lexington had always been a big part of my dad’s life; his family were always big VMI people,” Huger IV said. “With my dad not going to VMI and with my grandfather, Ben II, moving to Virginia Beach, I never had an Commandant Scott Shipp ’859, wearing civilian clothes. He served as VMI commandant opportunity to experience the Huger side of my family in Lexington until from 1862-89 and as superintendent from I came to VMI.” 1890-1907. Shipp was in command of the In some ways Huger IV doesn’t think his cadetship is any different from Corps of Cadets at the Battle of New Market on countless others. After all, at VMI “family” is a literal term: many of the May 15, 1864. Photo courtesy VMI Archives. cadets are sons, grandsons, nephews or cousins of former graduates, and many administrators are alumni, as are many of the professors. But for Huger IV, it’s something more personal. “For me, coming to VMI and living in Lexington meant restarting a tradition with the Huger name,” Huger IV said. “But I think seeing the pride of the alumni influenced me more than anything to attend VMI. I wanted to have that feeling someday.” For Huger ’62, the Brother Rat Spirit at VMI outweighs the legacy of any particular family. “Those who graduate from VMI, whether it was in the 1800s or when I graduated in the 1960s, experience a bond with people, a knowing of people literally all over the world who graduated from VMI,” Huger ’62 said. Faculty group with Superintendent Scott Shipp. From left, front row, seated: Edward “If I was in Hamburg or some- W. Nichols ’878 (professor of mathematics and, later, superintendent); John Mercer where in Alaska, and I needed Brooke (professor of physics and astronomy); Superintendent Scott Shipp ’859; Thomas help, I would call the Alumni M. Semmes ’860 (professor of modern languages and rhetoric); and Robert A. Marr ’877 Association and find out what (professor of engineering, architecture and drawing). Back row: R: Nathaniel Beverly alumni lived in the area, and I Tucker ’888 (professor of chemistry, geology and mineralogy); Thomas R. Marshall ’879 would contact them. We, the (commandant); 1st Lt. John S. Parke (21st Infantry, U.S. Army; instructor military science and tactics); and Hunter Pendleton (professor of chemistry). Photo courtesy Huger family, have used these VMI Archives. connections many times.” 2013-Issue 3

First Spring Reunion

April 22-23, 2013 Classes of 1943, 1948A, 1948B, 1953 and 1958

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Second Spring Reunion

April 26-27, 2013 Classes of 1973, 1983, 1993 and the Honored Class of 1963

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ASSOCIATION NEWS Update

Hampton Roads Young Alumni Event

from New York: One World Trade Center James F. Spellman Jr. ’85, supervisory investigator for Administration/ Operations for the New York State Attorney General, has sent in regular updates on One World Trade Center during the structure’s construction in New York City. Below is the latest photo, which he sent with the note, “May 3, 2013 ... a new One World Trade Center tops out at 1,776 feet. As we remember always, we also watch New York once again reach for the sky.” Spellman is a former president of The VMI Alumni Association and continues to remain active in supporting the association and the Institute.

From left, Chris Smith ’06, Andrew Stone ’05, Patrick Clark ’08, Sean Hingley ’07, Brandon Page ’10, and Manuel Caballero ’07 at the Virginia Beach Towne Center. According to Asa Page ’79, who submitted this photo, “The event was well attended – approximately 30 alumni – in the middle of a work week, which speaks volumes about our young alumni and their enthusiastic support for the Institute. Over the past year, these events have been growing in popularity since they initially began in January 2012, thanks to Andrew Stone. They offer a great opportunity for networking among recent graduates, and the group has welcomed VMI cadets who are home during holiday furloughs. This is a great example of alumni extending their support and advice to cadets about how to transition from the Institute into their future careers.”

VMI Veterans Transition Program Are you retiring or planning to transition from active duty military service to another job or career? If so, The VMI Alumni Association, Inc. can help. Please contact Placement and Career Networking Officer Eric Hunter ’08, at ehunter@ vmiaa.org, and discover how you can find a rewarding career in the civilian workforce through networking with other alumni.

A Look Back Perhaps some alumni will recall standing before one of the following former VMI commandants and saying: “Sir, the report is correct, but I’d like to explain ...”

Col. Oliver B. Bucher ’17: Commandant from 1946-51

2013-Issue 3

Col. Frank R. Pancake ’38: Commandant from 1951-54

Col. Glover S. Johns ’31: Commandant from 1957-60

ASSOCIATION NEWS Alumni Respond to Communications Survey In April 2013, the Alumni Association asked alumni to take part in a survey to determine their thoughts and preferences regarding communications and information delivery. More than 2,400 alumni participated in the survey, with input coming from a broad cross-section of classes. The online survey marked the second time that the alumni body has been queried about their interests and feedback on communication delivered in printed and digital format. The results indicated that alumni have a strong affinity for class notes in the Alumni Review, as evidenced by the fact that notes are the first section read by more than 90% of respondents. Similarly, the obituaries (Taps section in the Review) are ranked as number two in order read. (See charts shown below.) These responses are in line with answers provided in 2008 when alumni participated in the first version of the survey.

“First, I want to say ‘thank you’ to all who took the time and made the effort to complete the survey and provide us with such helpful, useful feedback,” said Alumni Association COO Adam Volant ’88. “We use survey responses to measure alumni interest and ensure we are hitting the mark. Indications and measurements are part of our core operating principles; they help confirm that we are on track in delivering our services and products.” Volant reported that many alumni are quite passionate about sustaining the magazine’s delivery format and style. They enjoy receiving it in the mail and look forward to reading it. “Our magazine, as well as the mobile app and other tools, are used to communicate and organize – these are two primary pieces of our mission statement,” said Bob Heely ’69, president of The VMI Alumni Association. Interestingly, alumni expressed some

What Do Alumni “Always” Read?

interest in visiting web sites for Review content but were not in favor of electronic delivery to the exclusion of the traditional magazine. In open-ended question feedback, alumni favor the magazine as a display item for their office, as a reference and even as a keepsake. The preference for the magazine over other information media matches the association’s long term plan to sustain 100 the magazine and ensure its relevance to alumni and readers. 80 Review is mailed to all The Alumni alumni as members of the Alumni As60without paying dues, and is sociation, delivered at no charge. While the costs of printing 40 and distributing a quarterly magazine are substantial, the investment is well-matched 20 by alumni interest in their alma mater and lifelong bonds with their Brother Rats. 0 For a detailed review of survey results, Class Taps VMI Alumni go to vmialumni.org/survey. Notes History Articles

Where Do Alumni Turn for Information?

Class Notes 91.8% Taps 68.5% Articles, VMI History 61.2% Articles about Alumni 53.5% Reunion Photos 51.5% Alumni in Theater 50.7%

Alumni Review VMI website Twitter Institute Report Facebook

100

Association website

5% 3%

<1%

12%

20 0 Class Notes

Taps

VMI Alumni Reunion Alumni History Articles Photos in Theater

74%

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS Lynchburg Chapter Hosts Valentine’s Hop Lynchburg, Virginia – February 2013

2013-Issue 3

ASSOCIATION NEWS Courtside at a Miami Heat Game

From left, Edward Smith ’50B, Buddy Metz ’43 and Ralston Brooke ’50B.

Attending a Miami Heat game on Feb. 8, 2013, were, from left, Johnny Weekes ’97 and wife Mariya with Jessica and Jack Collins ’92.

Old Corps Luncheon, A Great Way to Reconnect Wilson ’62 Idea Turns into Successful Event for Alumni Past 50-year Reunion Mark

address to the group, Trumps explained the Barracks configuration. During the tour, the group asked questions about cadet life today and had an opportunity to see cadets in their living environment. Everyone then walked from Barracks to Jackson Memorial Hall where two cadets from the VMI Pipes and Drums provided an overview of the Pipe Band and played several songs. For many in attendance, this was the first time they had seen the bagpipes that have been a part of the Regimental Band since 1997. The day concluded with many of the group adjourning to the VMI Museum located on the lower two levels of J.M. Hall. There, they got to see the Stewart gun collection and other items of interest in the museum. The Old Corps Luncheon appears to have made its way into the calendar for coming years and will be planned for early spring on an annual basis. For those who have already celebrated a 50th Reunion, this gathering may prove to be an enjoyable way to reconnect with the Institute, Brother Rats and other alumni.

For Laurence B. “Larry” Wilson Jr. ’62, Institute’s founding and a number of picthe five-year wait for his class’s next re- tures that provided a unique historical perunion was just too long. spective. Afterward, the group It was this sentiment that moved to Gillis Theater where led him to investigate ways the director of Construction, to invite alumni to return Lt. Col. Dale Brown, provided to the Institute on an anan update about new facilities nual basis. After discussions and construction on Post. with the Alumni AssociaFrom there, the group boardtion, the concept took root ed shuttles and headed to but not in the format of Lejeune Hall and Third Bara Homecoming or other, Keynote speaker Col. racks where they were greeted more traditional event. The Keith E. Gibson ’77, di- by the commandant of cadets, idea instead was to create rector of VMI Museums. Col. Tom Trumps ’79. In his an “Old Corps Luncheon,” an opportunity for alumni who had already celebrated their 50th Reunion to return to Post for an afternoon. The first-ever such event took place on March 26, 2013, and more than 80 alumni and guests returned. They were seated together by class – the most senior being the class of 1943 and the youngest being the class of 1962, eight of whom attended. Wilson’s notion that alumni were interested in visiting the Institute proved true, as feedback from the attendees was quite favorable. The gathering began in the Center for Leadership and Ethics, where attendees enjoyed lunch and keynote speaker Col. Keith Larry Wilson ’62, right, with Brother Rats Mark Graybill, center, and Columbus E. Gibson ’77, director of VMI Museums. His Cartwright. The class of 1962 had the highest attendance rate. engaging presentation included details of the

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS

The commandant, Col. Tom Trumps ’79, walked with Old Corps Luncheon attendees and escorted them to J.M. Hall.

Alumni had an opportunity to speak with cadet bagpipers after their performance.

Young Alumni Committee Corner

5K Young Alumni Run SATURDAY SEPT. 28, 2013 LEXINGTON, VA

• FREE • Open to Young Alumni* and Spouses * Young alumni defined as alumni who have celebrated 1-15 years since graduation Sponsored by:

VMI Alumni Association

More information/register: The luncheon was held in the Center for Leadership and Ethics.

2013-Issue 3

ehunter@vmiaa.org nkramer@vmiaa.org

PRIZES

Haydown on Sunday YAC Schwag

ASSOCIATION NEWS New Cadet Recruiting Coming to You! The New Cadet Recruiting Office and Team Admissions want to come to you! Take a peek at the tentative list of New Cadet Recruiting Receptions in the schedule below. Is your chapter listed? Use these receptions as a chance to round up the troops (your local alumni) and encourage your local high school students to learn about VMI. Don’t see your chapter involved, and you’d like to be? Contact your chapter president or Nichole Kramer ’03, New Cadet Recruiting Officer, at nkramer@vmiaa.org, to learn more. Chapter Name

City

Day and Date

George C Marshall Chapter

Sterling, VA

Monday, Sept. 30

Tri-cities Chapter

Petersburg, VA

Monday, Sept. 23

Rockbridge County Chapter

Lexington, VA

Thursday, Sept. 12

Hagerstown , MD

Monday, Sept. 16

Charlottesville Chapter

Charlottesville, VA

Monday, Sept. 24

Potomac River Chapter

Herndon, VA

Tuesday, Oct. 1

Central NC - Raleigh Chapter

Raleigh, NC

Monday, Oct. 7

Middle TN-Nashville Chapter

Nashville, TN

Wednesday, Oct. 16

Roanoke Chapter

Roanoke, VA

Tuesday, Oct. 29

Baltimore Chapter

Baltimore, MD

Wednesday, Oct. 9

Lynchburg Chapter

Lynchburg, VA

Wednesday, Oct. 30

Williamsburg Chapter

Williamsburg, VA

Monday, Oct. 14

New York City, Long Island Chapter

Long Island, NY

Monday, Oct. 21

Delaware Valley Chapter

Philadelphia, PA

Tuesday, Oct. 22

Atlanta Chapter

Atlanta, GA

Tuesday, Nov. 26

Norfolk Chapter

Norfolk, VA

Wednesday, Nov. 20

VMI Club of Richmond Chapter

Richmond, VA

Tuesday, Nov. 12

Potomac River Chapter

Springfield, VA

Tuesday, Nov. 5

Fredericksburg-Quantico Chapter

Fredericksburg, VA

Monday, Nov. 4

Charlotte Chapter

Charlotte, NC

Monday, Nov. 25

Rappahannock Chapter

Irvington, VA

Tuesday, Nov. 19

Rocky Mountain Chapter

Colorado Springs, CO Wednesday, Dec. 18

North Dallas Chapter

Dallas, TX

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Southeast TX – Houston Chapter

Houston, TX

Wednesday, Dec. 18

California, CA

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Oklahoma Chapter

Ft Sill, OK

Saturday, Dec. 21

Hawaii Chapter

Hawaii, HI

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Pacific Northwest Chapter

Seattle, WA

Wednesday, Dec. 18

Kansas City Chapter

Kansas City, MO

Saturday, Dec. 21

Detroit Chapter

Detroit, MI

Saturday, Dec. 21

Chicago Chapter

Chicago, IL

Saturday, Dec. 21

New England Chapter

Boston, MA

Friday, Jan. 10

North Jersey Chapter

New Jersey, NJ

Saturday, Jan. 11

Northern Shenandoah/ Stonewall Jackson Chapters

Inland Empire/Greater LA/ San Diego Chapters

Networking Boot Camp Gains Popularity by Eric J. Hunter ’08, Placement Officer, VMI Alumni Association

On April 25, 2013, Career Networking Services held a Networking Boot Camp for all graduating cadets who were still looking for a job. This was the third year for the event, and with 18 cadets attending, it was a huge success. Each year, we have seen increasing interest from cadets and have added a boot camp in December to accommodate those cadets graduating one semester early or late. During the April boot camp, we covered topics such as the Alumni Association website – www.vmialumni.org – LinkedIn and connecting with alumni. On the alumni website, we demonstrated how to use the alumni directory, job board and other pages that can assist cadets during their transition. One effective demonstration we use is to ask cadets to name a company in which they are interested and then type it into a field within the directory. Their eyes usually widen when they see how that query can generate a list of names for them to contact. For LinkedIn, we discussed the basics of a profile and demonstrated different search options that are available. Most of the cadets had already established accounts but had not seen how powerful the search options are in locating alumni with whom they can connect about a company or industry of interest. In the April boot camp, we included a section about communicating with alumni after we got feedback from a cadet who said he didn’t know what to say during the networking process. Cadets hear about the VMI Network frequently but often are not taught how to use it and what to say. We offered suggestions on effective e-mail, phone etiquette and communicating at networking events. By the end of the evening, the cadets had been educated on the tools that are available to them and equipped with knowledge on how to use them. We plan to hold boot camps two times per academic year with the goal of serving December and May graduates who are seeking employment opportunities.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS How the Strength and Power of the VMI Network Helped Me “I am humbled by the outpouring of support …” by M. Wayne Huggins Jr. ’07

In April 2011, I submitted my request to separate from the Air Force. Prior to this, I had spent four and a half years as a project manager on a major weapon system. When transitioning out of the military, the serviceperson is required to establish a separation date that is no earlier than six months and no later than 12 months after the date the papers are submitted. As such, military personnel do not have the luxury of continuing in their positions until they have found new employment. This creates a potentially stressful situation for transitioning military men and women, especially considering the current economy and the fact that those who separate without retiring do not receive a military pension on which they can depend. This was the situation in which I found myself after submitting my papers. I immediately began to put together my résumé and submitted multiple applications to employers, even though I could not begin work for six months. I was indecisive about where I wanted to work and in what industry I wanted to be, because my primary focus was a job that could support my family. A month and half before my separation, I had not found a job and realized that I needed to narrow down the location to be successful. I chose Richmond and contacted a few of my Brother Rats in the Richmond area to network and seek advice. At this point, I was panicked and didn’t care what the job was, as long as it would provide a

source of income. Noticing my desperation, a faithful Brother Rat got my attention with his clear and direct advice. He told me to focus my search on exactly what I wanted to do, so he could direct me to the right people. He said I should give myself credit for the skills and abilities that I have and start using the VMI network to my advantage. With that guidance, I narrowed my career search to the healthcare, construction, paper packaging and IT industries. I performed an extensive search in the Alumni Directory for alumni who were within 40 miles of Richmond and were associated with an organization that I could relate, even remotely, to the industries I was pursuing. Additionally, I searched in the Alumni Career Networking PDF that identified various alumni in specific career fields across the country. It took me about three days to build a list of 250 alumni, and I then crafted an email requesting their advice and attached my résumé. I tried to avoid coming across as someone with a “Do you have a job for me?” attitude. I merely wanted to initiate a conversation by seeking advice. I sent the email four days before Christmas day of 2011. Assuming that most of the e-mail addresses in the directory were out of date and many of the alumni would not respond because the e-mail would be lost in the Christmas shuffle, I only anticipated 20-25 responses – at most. In parallel, I worked with Eric Hunter in

M. Wayne Huggins Jr. ’07 2013-Issue 3

the Alumni Association Placement Office to build an online profile, refine my résumé, send out my information in Eric’s Career Networking Newsletter and locate alumni with whom I could network. A week after sending the e-mail with my résumé, I had received over 150 responses from alumni. Many said they could speak with me on the phone, and many others asked if I could meet them in person. Over two weeks, I spent over 2,000 minutes on the phone with alumni, and I had to increase the minutes on my cell phone plan. Those 2,000 minutes resulted in 13 face-to-face interviews, one of which was with Owens & Minor. The interest the VMI network took in my search was unbelievable. There were alumni who revised my résumé; pointed me to someone in their organization who might have a position available; and pointed me to other alumni who may have known of a job. There were also alumni who were retired and just wanted to talk. After I had completed seven of the 13 interviews, I received three job offers. The first offer that came in was from Owens & Minor. I received the offer on Friday, Jan. 13, 2013, and accepted on Monday, Jan. 16th. So, in three and a half weeks, I made initial contact with the network; spent 2,000 minutes on the phone with 150 alumni; scheduled 13 face-to-face interviews; was offered three jobs; and cancelled over 10 interviews after I had accepted the offer at Owens & Minor. I would like to credit myself for all of this success, but I cannot. In my situation, there were hundreds of alumni who demonstrated the strength of the network and proved once again that VMI is the greatest institution in the world. I am humbled completely by the outpouring of support from the many alumni who spent hours helping me in the process. And if this is not impressive enough, the network pointed my wife to a job, and she’s not even an alumnus. There are only three words left to say: Rah Virginia Mil!

Editor’s Note: Huggins is offering his help and support to those transitioning out of the military into the civilian workplace. He can be reached at 240/561-2904 or waynehuggins@hotmail.com. 37

ASSOCIATION NEWS Networking Events Offer Opportunities for Cadets and Alumni by Eric J. Hunter ’08, Placement Officer, VMI Alumni Association

In March 2013, we held networking events in Atlanta, Charlotte, northern Virginia and Richmond. Each event had its own unique structure, but all were focused on getting alumni together for the opportunity to network. In northern Virginia and Richmond,

the events were held on the first Saturday of VMI’s spring furlough, March 9th. This allowed for collaboration with VMI Career Services and made it possible for more than 60 cadets to attend. These are great events for alumni who are in the process of making career transi-

Keynote speaker Thomas S. Greenspon ’85 shared advice on networking with those who attended the breakfast in northern Virginia. Sharon Gibson, a representative from the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, spoke to the group about opportunities within her organization.

tions, because they provide the opportunity to exchange information with other alumni who may be able to assist. For cadets, the payoff for investing a few hours of their spring furlough is huge. Cadets are appreciative of this opportunity and value the career advice, assistance with job searches and time that alumni offer freely. Witnessing the VMI network in full force at these networking events is rewarding for all who attend. Our special thanks go to David R. Nagel ’01, Michael S. Anderson ’88, Christopher J. Whittaker ’90, William R. Charlet ’01 and R. Philip Steinhoff Jr. ’11 for their work in setting up the events. “I just wanted to take the time to thank you again for the Cadet-Alumni Networking Breakfast. It was an absolute pleasure to speak with the alumni and gain meaningful experience in professional networking. I sincerely hope The VMI Alumni Association continues to put together more of these events.” – Class of 2014 Second Classman “I thoroughly enjoyed it and met a lot of knowledgeable alums with great contacts. I believe this will have a huge impact in my success at finding my next job after the Army.” – Class of 2010 Alumnus in Process of Military Transition

Gathering at VCU Medical School Dedication At the dedication of the new Virginia Commonwealth University Medical School building in Richmond, Virginia, on April 20, 2013, were, from right, Col. Robert Slay ’69, M.D.; Dr. Joseph Kohen ’50; Dr. Cararayne Brenneman-Slay; Kohen’s former Ring Figure date, Joanne Roos; and Dr. Kerry Woodroof ’69 and his wife.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS The VMI Glee Club

At The Villages Florida March 2013

On March 13, 2013, the VMI Glee Club performed at The Villages Sea Breeze Recreation Center. The following alumni attended and are pictured singing “The Spirit” with the Glee Club: Bob Morris ’56, Carl LeBourdais ’57, Jim Goodwillie ’60, Stuart Crow ’61, Tony Curtis ’62, Don Holmes ’66, Richard Stanard ’67, Peter Van Note ’67, John Scott ’69, Roy Swatts ’69, Bernie Groome ’71, Rick Hack ’72, Walt Chalkley ’72 and Chase Porter ’05. According to Chalkley who submitted this photo, “We had over 100 people attend, including many spouses of alumni and parents and grandparents of former cadets. The 21 cadets in the Glee Club spent the night with alumni who had volunteered to host them. The cadets were provided a buffet breakfast free of charge at the Bonifay Golf and Country Club in The Villages prior to their departure on March 14.” An article in The Villages newspaper, The Daily Sun, said that the Glee Club “blew residents away with their performance,” which was made possible by Chalkley, former VMI chief of staff.

Class of ’62 at Old Corps Luncheon ... An Opportunity to Renew Bonds with Brother Rats Attending the “Old Corps Luncheon” at VMI in March 2013 were, from left, Wayne Pacine, Joe Weakley, Mark Graybill, Larry Wilson, Bowles Pender, Jim Richards and Columbus Cartwright. Jerry Wagner was also present but is not pictured. Photo courtesy Larry Wilson, who orignially came up with the idea for this event. The event attendees are alumni who have already celebrated their 50th Reunion. See more about this on pages 34-35.

2013-Issue 3

ASSOCIATION NEWS Class of 2003 at Potomac River Chapter Event Photo at right: At a Potomac River Chapter event in Alexandria, Virginia, were, from left, Derek Brown, Marc Motyleski, A.J. Schmaus, Steve Nakazawa and Chaz Wagner, all class of 2003. (Note: The photo flash reflection on Wagner’s face could not be removed successfully, despite our efforts.)

Cover Mixup: Here Are the Schlussels A photo of retired Air Force Col. Dave Honeywell ’71 and his wife, Donna, appeared on the cover of the 2013-Issue 1 Alumni Review. Unfortunately, the husband and wife in the photo were misidentified as Kent and Judy Schlussel ’70. When the Review staff was notified, we printed a correction in the 2013-Issue 2 Review, page 1, and promised to include a photo of the Schlussel’s in this issue. At left are the Schlussels at the VMI Institute Society Dinner. Thanks go to Van Jolissaint ’71, Buddy Bryan ’71, the Honeywells and the Schlussels for their help in resolving this.

Graybill ’62 Advises Yankees Coach

Taiwan Chapter: VMI Alumni Association Taiwan Chapter members visiting Singapore were, from right, Kirk Stokes ’05, Yank Shi Tsai ’05 and Kuo Ruey Liang ’03. The two persons at far left and second from left are not VMI alumni.

Regarding the photo above, Larry Wilson ’62 said, “The spirit of George Steinbrenner sent Mark Graybill ’62 to Florida to advise Coach Joe Girardi on how the Yankees can win the pennant this year.” Neither Wilson nor Graybill disclosed the advice that was given.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS

More than 140 alumni and friends sailed together on the 2013 Caribbean Cruise.

2013-Issue 3

ASSOCIATION NEWS Alumni Sail to the Windward Islands In March 2013, more than 140 alumni, family and friends made their way to Bridgetown, Barbados, to sail on the Royal Clipper, the world’s largest sailing vessel on which two previous alumni voyages have occurred. Many arrived early to participate in a specially planned, bon voyage party held at the Accra Beach Resort. Of those on board for this trip, more than 30 percent were first-time passengers and new to the alumni sailing experience. For the remainder, the sail and experience were more familiar, and many commented that their motivation for signing up was, in equal measure, for the alumni interaction and the elegant Caribbean vacation experience. As has been a part of each sail, the VMI colors were raised during a brief ceremony including the crew. The Royal is the largest of three sailing ships owned by Star Clippers, which provided the unique charter run by The VMI Alumni Association. The sevenday itinerary for the Windward Islands included St. Barts, St. Martin, St. Kitts, Iles des Saintes and Martinique, as well as one day of pure sailing. During the week, excursions included visits to key

Red, White and Yellow colors were raised on the morning of the first day of sailing.

sites in each of the islands, a chance to enjoy great scuba and beaches, ample opportunity to feel the Caribbean sun, and a land tour in all-terrain vehicles. In the evenings, guests took part in some planned activities that included games, a crew and passenger Talent Show, and dressing up for the Pirate Night. Col. Keith Gibson ’77, director of VMI Museums, and his wife, Pat, were onboard. Keith provided several educational sessions that drew large crowds surrounding the piano bar inside the Royal. His presentations included VMI history topics, as well insightful details about Matthew Fontaine Maury, a familiar name in the VMI ranks but lesser known as a traveler who had sailed through the Antilles for trade. A broad cross-section of classes was represented on the ship, starting with members of the class of 1951 and extending to the youngest alumnus from the class of 1997. As the class with the largest attendance, the class of 1974 was treated to their own BR cocktail party. Two families traveled together, including the Perry family, with father Ken Perry ’53 joining his son, Chris Perry ’77. The Alexanders also enjoyed some time

together, as Bill Alexander ’53 brought each of his children. One memorable highlight of the trip was the wedding of Randolph Williams ’66 and Priscilla Knight. They had traveled on both of the previous two sails and invited all passengers to join them for their wedding ceremony held at the aft of the ship. Ship Captain Sergey had been onboard during the 2009 trip and was again aboard the Royal to perform the ceremony. The trip brought together old friends and created opportunities for new friendships, giving everyone time to reminisce about their VMI experiences and discuss life after the Institute. Sharing meals and fellowship onboard proved to be the element most appreciated by all – the chance to savor a wonderful itinerary with friends and those associated with our alma mater.

Chris and Joe Howard ’97 were onboard for the Caribbean trip, making their third sail on the Royal Clipper.

Anne and Randy Blanks ’67 enjoyed a walk on the beach in Bridgetown, Barbados, where many on the trip arrived early.

The class of 1974 had the most Brother Rats on the ship, earning the class its own, private cocktail party on the top side of the Royal Clipper.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS

From left, Pete Farmer ’68 and Rue Palmer ’58 shared some laughs with their wives, Joyce and Patty.

Jay Wegrzyn ’66 prepared to climb the mast, which was offered as a daily optional activity. Col. Keith Gibson ’77 standing near the sailing sextant. Gibson was a guest lecturer on board and a source of Institute knowledge for passengers. Richard Hewitt ’83 and his guest, Libby, enjoyed the sunset aboard the Royal Clipper. The Perry family and friends sailed together

Becky and Gene Bane ’62 enjoyed being a part of the cruise and arrived from St. Croix where they live three months of every year.

Jeff Gausepohl ’65 enjoyed the opportunity to grab the wheel during an evening picture-taking session.

2013-Issue 3

Bob Heely ’69, who is the current president of The VMI Alumni Association, provided entertainment one evening and played familiar songs by Jimmy Buffett and others.

Mary and George Hutter ’52 had the perfect vantage point to watch the sunset.

Royal Clipper Captain Sergey officiated the wedding that joined Priscilla Knight and Randolph Williams ’66 in matrimony. All passengers on board were invited to attend.

The newly married couple posed for a wedding photo shortly after completing their vows.

CLASSNOTES NOTES CLASS

’35

Richard H. Knight ’70

I wish to thank everyone who replied to the information supplied in this column concerning “I” Chang, who was very likely the first VMI alumnus killed in action in World War II. Capt. Chang and his entire rifle company were annihilated in the defense of Nanking, on Dec. 1, 1937. Capt. Chang’s service in the defense of his country is not commemorated in VMI’s Memorial Gardens. I have thought about contacting the administration and the Chinese Embassy about the possibility of funding a suitable memorial but have not done so. Eddie Arnold recalled that Capt. Chang completed a year at West Point before entering the Ratline. Capt. Chang was a man of “few words,” according to Eddie, but that may have been more a reflection of his academic major (civil engineering) than his nationality. The Institute was founded 164 years ago. The class of 1935 entered Barracks in

Class of 1935: Capt. Chang and his entire rifle company were annihilated at Nanking, China, on Dec. 1, 1937. Chang was VMI’s First World War II casualty.

September 1931, 82 years ago, which spans half of the Institute’s history. At the time, the Battle of New Market was a “recent” event, the equivalent today of looking back to something that happened in 1946. Eighty years ago, the class was beginning its third year in Barracks. The most popular American spectator sports were baseball, 44

boxing and horseracing. Of these, the gym where they live during the “off season.” “national pastime” was preeminent. Inside Jim exercises every day and is “fit and trim” Barracks, the Corps of Cadets momentarily (as Col. Navas ’52 would say). forgot about the Great Depression to concenWe talked about Jim’s cadet days, and he trate on the pennant races. Jim Sherman con- said that walking uptown to the picture show firmed that the few radios in Barracks might was a popular pastime. An old stable sergeant be able to pick up a broadcast on a good day. had cars to rent, so the cadets would pile into The “broadcast” was likely little more than whatever was available and – against regulaa radio announcer reading tickertape. In the tions – make their way over to Southern Sem, senior circuit, the revived New York Giants Sweet Briar and Randolph-Macon. These dethroned “Dutch” Reagan’s Chicago Cubs were not the cars that we are accustomed to (before “Brother Rat”). In the junior circuit, today. Jim recalled that once, while descendthe upstart Washington Senators dethroned ing a steep hill in Lynchburg, the left tire the New York Yankees. The Giants tamed rotated off the rear axle and went bouncing the Nats 4 games to 1 in the Series. The great by him as he sat in the driver’s seat. Jim Carl Hubbell won two games and pitched 20 reminisced about Maj. Gen. John Archer scoreless innings, and the equally great Mel LeJeune and expressed his admiration for Ott supplied the heavy lumber by homering our fifth superintendent. twice for the winning Giants. Jim recalled a riding mishap. Eighty years I have every issue of the Alumni Review ago, the field artillery cadets rode three to since my graduation, and except for the four times a week. Some cadets thought it National Geographics in my garage; the was great fun to put burrs underneath the alumni magazines outweigh any of my saddles of the horses that were being ridden other household goods, including the piano. I that day. Jim mounted such a horse, and the glanced at an issue from 1978 and was drawn horse bolted in pain and ran pell-mell in the to a memorial in honor of the late Maj. Gen. direction of a stone wall. At the last minute, Rowland F. Kirks. Written by and in the Jim pulled hard on the reins, and the horse heroic style of then-editor Beverly M. Read turned left. Jim got his right foot out of the ’41 (DSC), the sketch reads: “A man of many stirrup and up over the horse just before it capabilities and great strength of character, he slammed sideways into the wall. It was a was one of the nation’s foremost supporters close call, and it prompted some changes. of the citizen soldier concept. He lived his Can you imagine the cost of the liability faith, was a highly professional major general insurance if horses were maintained at VMI in the United States Army Reserve and had today? fought in Europe in World War II as a young Jim likes the new look of campus. He comofficer. He gave 38 of his 62 years to military mented on the large Rat classes, which now service. The entire Supreme Court attended number more than 500 cadets. He wondered the impressive funeral, with full honors, in whether a cadet would know every member Arlington Cemetery.” Today, Gen. Kirks – of his class by the time graduation arrived. like his Brother Rat, Capt. Chang – is little That is a valid concern. remembered, so it is well that we revive the Jim asked about Harry Byrd and Eddie Armemory of these men. Especially now, it may nold and regretted that the distances between them made it difficult to meet somewhere. Jim be said that they are the objects of “noble emulation.” I enjoyed conversations with both Peggy and Jim Sherman. They are fine and are enjoying a new great-grandson, Noland James Sherman, who takes his middle name from Jim. The Shermans are surrounded by family in North Carolina, and they are enjoying what Jim describes as a “perfect” situClass of 1935: Eddie Arnold with son Bruce, ation. Jim enjoys the weather, Easter Sunday 2013. the beachfront property and the VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES said he would like to visit VMI again, if he could get a ride, and that is something we are working on. I received a long e-mail from Eddie Arnold. Eddie’s son, Dr. Tom Arnold, typed as Eddie dictated. (Thanks for typing, Tom. Never assume that I can read a doctor’s handwriting.) Eddie says that, at 99, he gets out every day and walks to the community park, two blocks away. He is using a walker to be on the safe side, but he does not use it around the house. Eddie enjoys watching the youngsters at play in the park, and he is tempted to join them. Eddie and Tom attend church twice a week, on Sunday and Wednesday. Eddie recalled that only one of his Rat roommates returned for his third class year, Temple Ryland, who earned varsity letters in four sports. Eddie and Temple roomed together again at Fort Myer, Virginia, where they were young lieutenants. While at Fort Myer, Eddie studied military law. He recalled that the instructor was then-Col. Jonathan M. Wainwright, USMA (1906). Eddie returned to VMI in August 1938 as an ROTC instructor, under the direction of George Davis Wiltshire ’915. Among his duties, Eddie taught a course in military law. When Eddie returned to VMI for his 50th Reunion in 1985, a VMI professor introduced himself and disclosed that he had attended Eddie’s course on military law all those years ago. The professor expressed surprise that Eddie was not a lawyer. Eddie says that there is not a day that goes by when he does not think of his Brother Rats. Col. Pat Webb, Texas A&M ’69, was, until his recent retirement, associated with the VMI Foundation. He was very interested in the VMI class of 1935. We wish Pat and his family the very best in retirement. It is such a pleasure to hear from you. I hope that you are enjoying summer. Until next time, I am Respectfully, Dick ’70

’37

Frank Forsyth’67

Virginia is always glorious in spring, and this year is no exception. My wife, Leslie, and I traveled to Front Royal to rendezvous with sisters Bea F. Oettinger and Susan F. Parsley and inter Frank Forsyth’s ashes beside those of his wife, Kitty, as well as those of his mother and father. Four generations of Forsyth’s can be found in Prospect Hill Cemetery. The 2013-Issue 3

April day was crisp and breezy, but the sky was a clear blue with billowy clouds racing on the breeze. The previous day’s rains had cleaned the air of its heat, dust or pollen, and the earth was responding with a new green mantle blanketing the Shenandoah Valley again. I’m sure Frank would have appreciated the bagpiper’s serenades which concluded the graveside worship service. Frank always appreciated his Scottish roots, his VMI education and the blessings of his life. Like his wife, Kitty, he had anchored himself deep into the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. His wish was to reurn to his beloved Valley; so we brought Frank home. He used to quote The Virginia Creed: “To be a Virginian either by Birth, Marriage, Adoption or even on one’s Mother’s side, is an Introduction to any state in the Union, a Passport to any Foreign Country and a Benediction from Almighty God.” Frank was as fine a VMI man as any who has passed through Limit’s Gates or rendered a respectful salute to Gen. Jackson’s likeness standing watch at the Parade Ground. I was blessed to be his son and honored to follow in his footsteps at the Institute. I shall miss him. Frank received a few cards around the Christmas season from ’37 family members. Margery Couper (John) checked in, and Helen Church (William) included a chatty note. She was expecting her son, Charles, who lives in Massachusetts, for a holiday visit, but she was not expecting her daughter, who lives in California, to make it this year. Helen relates that she has resided at The Waterford Place in Juno Beach, FL, for the past 15 years and remains very fond of her surroundings. The class also received a long note with Christmas wishes from Frances Freeman (Art). Frances related that she made it through a very serious surgical procedure last year to correct an abdominal aortic aneurysm. She admits that, at 90, she considers herself very fortunate to have come through the delicate surgery with flying colors and to leave the hospital in just two days. Frances continues to live in her comfortable apartment near her son and daughter-in-law. Although she no longer drives, she is grateful for her health, and she continues to enjoy shopping trips and grocery shopping. She closed her note by wishing everyone in the ’37 family a healthy and happy New Year. After reading the latest “notes,” Helen Church took a few minutes to pen a note of condolence regarding Frank’s passing last

January. In February, the Institute received a letter from Mr. Joseph Faulk of the Law Offices of Calhoun, Faulk, Curtis & Faircloth, LLC in Troy, AL. The letter advised that Hansford McLeod passed away on Feb. 23, 2012. Although the Alumni Association and your class agent have attempted to solicit additional information regarding Hansford’s passing for the Review, we have been unsuccessful. With Frank’s passing and knowledge of Hansford’s demise the previous year, the ranks of ’37 have thinned considerably among us. However, as we say farewell to our Brother Rats and their loved ones in this life’s journey, the ranks of the class of 1937 are no doubt swelling on the other side for the next great adventure. We still have our current lives and past memories of our loved ones. I’ll be happy to continue to be class agent as long as ’37 members want to share their lives and, when informed, will publish current happenings and/or pleasant stories in future Alumni Reviews.

’38

Glenn Foust

Dear Members of VMI class of ’38, We have found Monk Lyon died two years ago. Bruce Cameron and Ray Long died this year. Bob Mathis is in a North Carolina nursing home. George Fosque is in Onancock, VA. Dr. G.T. Foust and Dr. W.B. Boyer are alive and well. We still have the four left.

’39

Frank Parker III ’64

Not much news to report. Our two old faithfulls, Ira Saxe and Howard Golladay, both are still reporting for duty. Ira is still living here in the Houston area, and Howard is still in San Diego, being well taken care of by his granddaughter, Jenn Platt. I visited with Howard and Jenn in February at their house. He is still doing remarkably well. We had lunch at a local sandwich shop, and he bought! Marcy and I just got back from Spain and Portugal on vacation. Neither of us have ever been there and had a great time seeing the 45

CLASS NOTES sites and absorbing some culture. We started in Madrid and worked our way south through Toledo, Granada, Cordoba and Malaga, then over to Tangiers, Morocco, for a day. We ended up in Lisbon. We saw many ABCs (Another Beautiful Church/Castle), most of which were built from all the money they made in the early days of their respective empires. I did get word that Delbert K. Santee Jr. passed over on July 8, 2012, and his ashes, along with his wife’s, were interred in the Florida National Memorial Cemetery in Bushnell, FL. In the meantime, keep well, and let me hear from you.

’40

Robert Smith

As I begin this report, the thing that haunts is how few of us are left to report on. Suddenly, it seems we are down to five. Still, I’ve been feeling thankful that the fickle finger of fate has kept this few of us going so long. All those clichés come to mind, such as the contributions from a good woman or from good bourbon or other good living being responsible – but who knows? This time it is our beloved regimental supply captain, Frazier Baldwin, who has left us. He was one of our real class leaders and a full supporter of VMI all his life. For a while, he was our class agent, and then he was president of the Wilmington (DE) Chapter of the Alumni Association. When I was actively building up the nearby Delaware Valley Chapter of the Alumni Association, he and Jinny were most supportive and had our chapter members come to his and Jinny’s beautiful home in Greenville, DE, and entertained us royally. I remember the gala party well. Featured in the foyer of the home was a large reproduction of the Saturday Evening Post cover which pictured him and Walt Edens in all the glory of their dress uniforms looking very military and gallant. I believe this landmark in national publicity and recognition of VMI came after “Brother Rat,” the play and movie. The weather was salubrious, and his home had a beautiful prospect, with a back garden that ran down across a fine lawn to a little stream, as I recall. 46

Of course, we learned much about Frazier’s life and all the interesting places his great career took him and Jinny from his most interesting diary-like abbreviated biography in the Class of ’40 – 55 Years On book that Eppy Powell wonderfully edited and published for us. He starts with the last days at school and goes on through all the places they lived and the interests they had. It is most pleasurable to read over again, because we all share so many of the same kind of career and living experiences, and the account comes home to our own memories of our lives. His obituary is in the Taps section. A talk with Ben Hardaway was cheerful and interesting. One has to admire how he keeps on with his adventures. With respect to his protégé, Shannon Whitworth, the singer, he is giving a Fourth of July weekend party at his place at Cashiers, NC, for a group of friends, and she will attend and perform. Also, sometime sooner, he will go to a private party near Saluda, NC, at which Shannon will sing, and the band will be the Steep Canyon Rangers which her husband, Woody Platt, leads. As for hunting, he mentioned that it is still turkey season, but when he went, he didn’t get any. Great that he is keeping on so joyously. By calling Dan Flowers fairly early in the day, this time I caught him before he hied himself off to his office. He reported regretfully that he has slowed down but is keeping on with his activities, such as the Bible studies classes, the office and exercise. He is proud of his grandson in the Corps and said that his cadet has a summer job lined up. I spoke briefly with Jeannie, and she sounded fine, but she quickly turned me over to Dan. Sol Rawls was bright and cheerful as ever when we talked. All of his three daughters live in Norfolk, but he told me more about his daughter, Patricia. She is leading a civic project to get the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s 11 Sir Moses Ezekiel ’866, seven-foot-tall statues restored. These were carved from Cararra marble, were designed by him in Rome between 1879 and 1884 for William Wilson Corcoran, founder of the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. They were originally designed to be set in second-story niches in the Corcoran Gallery. They depict notable painters and sculptors: Antonio Canova, Thomas Crawford, Leonardo da Vinci, Albrecht Durer, Michelangelo, Bartolomé Murillo, Phidias, Raphael, Rembrandt, Peter Paul Rubens and Titian.

Of course, we all remember our connection with the sculptor. That’s because Moses Ezekiel was a prominent VMI alumnus in the class of 1866. Ezekiel, a Richmond native, was the first Jewish cadet at VMI and a Confederate soldier who fought in the Battle of New Market. His classmates who died in that battle are buried beside a poignant statue he created on the VMI campus titled “Virginia Mourning Her Dead.” And we were part of the ceremony held by the statue every year to mark the battle’s anniversary. This news about Sol’s daughter, Patricia, makes me wonder if Sol’s great genes have guided both his son, Waite, and his daughter, Patricia, to do great things for the common good – or is it that he was a great role model. As we all know, Sol Waite Rawls III ’70 is the director of the Museum of the Confederacy. Waite’s latest is the Museum of the Confederacy’s new exhibit at Gettysburg where, among the artifacts on display, are the eight battle flags recovered from the bloodied fields where Pickett’s Charge was fought. I asked Sol how many great-grandchildren he had, and the reply was only two. So, naturally, I placed that number into the prospective of comparing his accomplishment in that field with myself. I hope he won’t feel put down now, when I report that Betty-Jane and I have seven! When I first called Matt Freidlander, I reached Jacqueline, because happily, Matt was out playing bridge which indicates that he has not lost his groove. She said they were well. They had departed from their commodious Jupiter, FL, place just a short time before and were now trying to adjust to the 1,800 square feet of their Atlanta residence. From talking to others at this TidePointe retirement facility, it seems that downsizing comes to most all. It is a part of planning after we get to a certain age, and most believe it is the best thing to do. Betty-Jane and I are recovering from a spate of health things over the past few weeks. Wouldn’t you know that the fickle finger brought them on just when our beloved doctor had left for a cruise. He is now back, but we are already better. Now, when we go to see him in a few days, instead of talking about us, I’m sure the visit will be dominated by his stories of what happened on the cruise. I hope it was exciting but that they didn’t stage a power failure just to make it outstanding. Have a great summer. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

’41

Alfred Rooklin

Several days ago, I was checking some TV notes and found on TCM that “Brother Rat” was showing at 8:00 p.m. Do any of you remember the excitement it caused, since most of the production was done on Post and, when completed, the premier was to be shown here in Lexington at the State Theater? I thought it would be proper for me to call as many of our ’41 still among us in their 90s. I spent an hour-plus on the telephone. I contacted no one. The line was not in service or busy, so I gave up and called Seaton and “Red,” and they later viewed it. If you remember, it was written by two grads, Fred Finklehoffe ’32 and John Monks ’32, as a Broadway play in New York prior to this movie. From what I can remember, the Corps viewed the movie at the State Theater. That night, the entire cast, minus Ron Reagan, were guests at the mid-winter hops our third class year. I did not like it. They cut out much of the real movie to make it fit for TV. It was given a one-star rating. I called Frank Louthan who gave me the dates the Corps was involved. I had the original DVD that I purchased from the VMI Museum. Nothing left out. It showed the old, Old Corps at its best! What I have to say next is important. I need to know your current address and phone numbers to update me on your situations. Many of your past addresses and phones are either changed or non-existent. Please bring me up to date! Please call me or write to me, because we at the Institute did not know Fletcher Booker died on Oct. 10, 2012, until it was noted in the Taps section of the recent Alumni Review. Would you believe it – lieutenant general, USANG! In the past 12 months, we have lost seven of us. So, please stay in touch with me, so that Seaton and I are up to date on the few of us here to know who is still living. I will try to list those who are living in my next class agent notes. We might be back in the Southern Conference! Shades of Paul Shu ’40, Bosh Pritchard ’42, Joe Muha ’43 and all the 2013-Issue 3

other great players! They were in the old, Old Corps. Do you remember? As for me I have been young and old – young is better! For Mary Jane, too. Try not to fall. We call our house the cane house! I love the class of 1941! Al

’42

Charles B. Miller

Having remarried in February, I am still on the honeymoon. Moved out of my apartment the last day of March – all furniture given away or sold. Only my clothes, computer and files came to Mary’s house, 300 feet away. The marriage stirred up the retirement community. Wherever we go, we are greeted with smiles. We were taken out to dinner so many times we had to have a Tea Dance with 1940s type, Frank Sinatra music to thank everybody. It was a huge success. Geline Williams, Alex’s widow, joined us at the dance. I heard from one of Jed Wilson’s neighbors that Jed and Libby Schmidt are doing well. I missed them when I stopped by at The Hermitage, a retirement facility in Richmond. They were taking water aerobics at Cedarfield, another retirement community here. You might catch Jed on his cell phone, 804/837-7000. Jack Woodward died in January in Florida, and a service was held there. His ashes are to be buried in Richmond at Hollywood Cemetery on May 17. Brother Rats still on our class’s mailing list, oldest to youngest: Ed Jones, Harry Siebert, Andy Stumpf, Charlie Purdum, Gordon Moore, John Embrey, B.W. Baker, Gabe Horne, Lloyd Stallings, Ernie Keppel, George Rhea, Charlie Miller, Paul Geary, Bob Goodman, Jack Patton, Jed Wilson and Fred Love – 17 of us. I talked to Tish Keppel by phone. Ernie was home from the hospital, having physical and occupational therapy and nursing care for lymphoma. I received a nice note from Jimmy Hume’s widow, Corbin, in Louisville, congratulating me on my marriage to Mary Easterly. Life has been hectic, and I have not done justice to getting news, as none comes in by

itself. Except for an occasional e-mail from Gordon Moore and Jack Patton, that is it.

’43

Jeffrey G. Smith

Blessedly, I have only one death to report, one that will wrench many hearts. Frank Williams died at his son’s riverside home in Georgia. Brian Bowen had called him to give him a first-hand report of our 70th Reunion, only to be told by Frank’s grandson that he had died on April 23rd – which was the week before – of kidney failure. As most of us know, Frank virtually lost the use of his legs several years ago, but he struggled with special crutches and made it to all the reunions and mini-reunions till our recent 70th. Frank was a brave soldier who saw more than his share of combat in WWII, serving in the famed 3rd Infantry Division along with Brian Bowen and Sonny Litton. (Editor’s Note: Mr. Williams’ obituary appears in the Taps section of this Alumni Review.) According to my unofficial count, we are down to 31 surviving Brother Rats. Please take care of yourselves. Although the issue of the Alumni Review readers received in May showed our new mailing and home address, I strongly suspect few of you noticed. We very reluctantly moved from our home of 33 years (bought soon after I retired from active duty in late 1979). Our new home – only a few miles removed and known as The Fairfax is (officially) the Army Retirement Residences (Potomac). It consists of a well landscaped cluster of five (4-story) apartment buildings and a few separate cottages. The largest apartments or cottages are 1,500 sq. ft. The Community Bldg. houses the dining room, informal dining rooms, library, athletic facilities, post office, bank, concierge, barber and beauty shop, meeting and game rooms, swimming pool, etc., etc., etc. Sounds as if we have all that our hearts could desire. However, we are daily sobered by daily living amongst many who are quite frail and of what the future might be. Many inhabitants (more often than I should, I find myself thinking of them as “inmates”) depend on walkers to improve their otherwise 47

CLASS NOTES precarious conditions. Lots of motorized scooters, whose drivers are a bit reckless at times. There is, of course, a Health Center – a veritable mini hospital – and beyond that, there is nearby state-of-the art Fort Belvoir Hospital. What began as an all retired Army population has morphed into armed services, officer retirees (and widows) from all the military services – plus the foreign service. Sounds idyllic? Well, no. We miss our former house, its view, its 4,500 sq. ft., its amenities, its spacious green lawn. But we aren’t growing younger. Common sense dictated a downsizing from 4,500 sq. ft. to 1,500 sq. ft. and a need to remove unnecessary future burdens on our children (such as sorting and disposing of superfluous clutter). Throughout the transition, our children, five of whom reside in northern Virginia, have been great. And blessedly, we are slowly but surely making our adjustment to a new lifestyle. The 10 Brother Rats who made our last round-up were Gerry Asch, Brian Bowen, Dick Catlett, Don Foster, Settle Frank, Bill Gottwald, Gordon Smith, Jeff Smith, Bill Winter and John Van Landingham. All are shown in the photo accompanying my notes. Jim Tapley had to cancel at the last minute because of his wife’s illness. So, we almost had 11 Brother Rats which would have set a record, but the Alumni Office’s Buddy Bryan thought our 10 were enough for a new record. Our “extended” 1943 attendees were about 21 or 22. The exact figure was elusive but included children (for one, our son from VMI’s 1979 class) and friends who provided the transportation to get most of us to the reunion and assist in our various needs. VMI paid for all dinners and provided a bus. Greatly appreciated. The first dinner was for all the classes having reunions at the time. VMI’s most senior classes. The dinner was in VMI’s impressive new Marshall Hall, and at dinner’s end, Gen. Peay ’62 spoke. The second night’s dinner – for our class only – was at Café Michel’s. Duke Ellington’s son, David, and his wife, plus George Pickral’s son, Bobby, and wife attended as our guests. David and Bob, both physicians in Lexington, treated us to pre-dinner drinks. Duke and George would have been proud. We had lunch on the second day (April 23) at Betty Haskins’ who, in addition to 48

providing us a delicious meal in her attractive home, was a virtual pillar of strength in assisting me with the numerous details of arranging the reunion. It was a blessing for me – and all those attending – to have her always ready and gracious aid. The class of 1943’s “Day” came on April 23 – our second day – when all 10 attending Brother Rats “marched” or made their respective ways down the Parade Ground into the old Courtyard to give an “Old Yell” for our class. My son was enlisted by an Alumni Association official to carry our guidon. We 10 Brother Rats lined up ready – if not all of us able – to proceed. About three of us completed the march at “quick

Class of 1943: Jeff Smith, left, September 1945, in Taiyuan, China, just a few miles south of the Great Wall and Mao Tse Dung’s communist Fourth Route Army. Smith was serving on a U.S. Army team, observing the surrender of the Japanese Second Army to Chinese provincial forces. He is shown with his driver, George, and the eagle that Smith had just shot from its perch 150 yards away using his issue carbine. A few months later, Mao’s troops overran Taiyuan and within a year ruled all of mainland China.

time.” However, very soon the stragglers caught up, and all 10 of us were again united at the base of the sentry box. Not that I am all that nimble, but it soon seemed apparent that I was best able to clamber up the stairs (which had been rolled in) to the top of the sentry box. Waiting at the top was the president of the first class. The two of us led the cadets lined on the stoop railings and the gathered alumni in an “Old Yell” for ’43. It was a rather emotional occasion. One of my friends in ’48 was in tears after I descended,

as we embraced for perhaps a final time. Don Foster came the longest way – from California – to attend the reunion, accompanied by his two daughters – Jill Grand and Lori Jones. Don’s wife died last February. He turned 92 in December and is in very good health, I’m happy to report. I called Bruce Suter a few days after the reunion. I had been surprised that he not only did not attend, inasmuch as he had long been very much involved in preparing for earlier reunions. Again to my surprise, Bruce showed little interest. He and Joan are in apparent good health and busy in the various activities of their retirement home. Bruce passed on that Bill Bell is now living in the health center of his retirement home – Falcon’s Landing in Loudon County. He joins the legions relying on a walker because of balance problems. We all wish you well, Billy. George Snead’s son, Mike ’70, sent me a copy of (the Virginia) Senate Joint Resolution No. 408. It was agreed to by the VA Senate on Feb. 14, 2013, and the VA House of Delegates on Feb. 21, 2013. The resolution details many of George’s achievements and is full of well-deserved praise. Mike sent me an Internet link (below) quoting the full resolution. However, I was unsuccessful in opening it. Perhaps my readers might have better luck. The link Mike sent: http://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/ legp604.exe?132+ful+SJ408ER. (Editor’s Note: We also tried this link and received an error message.) The resolution was formally presented to George’s widow, Kitty, family and friends on April 29 at Westminster Canterbury Lynchburg. Kitty is now in assisted living at Westminster Canterbury and doing well and happily, despite her deteriorating shortterm memory. I called Vince Thomas to fill him in on the reunion, but he apparently had word from others – or did not seem tremendously interested. I suspect, given his situation, I’d have reacted much the same. However, he was in good spirits and busily interested in regional civic affairs. Betty is fine and devotes most of her time to Vince’s care. He remains confined to a wheelchair and still has hopes of a grandson attending VMI. (I do, too, Vince, but it has so far eluded me.) C’est fini. That is, till next August, God willing. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

Class of 1943: Row 1: Jeffrey Smith, John Van Landingham, Bill Winter, Settle Frank, Brian Bowen and Gerry Asch. Row 2: Dick Catlett, Bill Gottwald, Gordon Smith and Don Foster.

CLASS NOTES

70th Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April 22-23, 2013

Class of 1943

2013-Issue 3

CLASS NOTES

’44

Tom L. Peyton Jr.

It’s always nice to have some good news with which to start. The Richmond TimesDispatch of March 14th reported that Charlie Miller ’42 and Mary Blanton Easterly were married in Hot Springs in February. Mary (89) was quoted as saying, “I thought that it would be funny to get married when I’m 90. But Charlie’s a worry wart. I could see he was going to sweat it out all summer. So, I said, ‘Come on, Charlie; let’s get married, for goodness sake.”’ So, they eloped. Congratulations to the newlyweds! Thanks to John Irby and Egypt Jones for the clippings. In March, I received an invitation to a celebration of Cabell Brand’s 90th birthday in Roanoke. I had an out-of-state trip planned, so I sent my regrets, along with a modest contribution to his charity, Total Action for Progress (TAP). Later, Betty Bond Nichols sent me a newspaper article reporting on the event. Two hundred and fifty people attended the celebration at a Roanoke Holiday Inn to honor Cabell’s and Shirley’s efforts to support the poor and underprivileged through social change. The principal speaker, U.S. Senator Mark Warner, commented: “Who else but Cabell would turn a 90th birthday party into a fundraiser for TAP?” I must report with sadness that we lost three more Brother Rats since my last class notes. They are Dick Meade on Feb. 24th, Peck Chambers on March 10th and Jack Montague on March 30th. Brief obituaries appear in the Taps section of this Alumni Review. I have the obituaries issued by the local newspapers or funeral homes and will provide them to anyone on request. Richard Alva Meade, 90, died at his home in Phoenix, AZ. His wife, Fran, called me to advise of his passing. Dick was among those of us who completed three years at the Institute before being called to active duty in the U.S. Army Reserve in 1943. He was subsequently commissioned and served as a first lieutenant with the 11th Airborne Division. He returned for his final year at VMI, graduating in 1947. He was initially employed in Phoenix but moved his family to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to work with an architect engineer firm engaged in 50

designing and supervising the construction of the first highway network in that country. He remained there for 33 years as an engineering executive, returning to Phoenix in 1998. Horses were one of Dick’s passions, and he was an active participant in equestrian ownership and related events in Saudi Arabia and Phoenix. The class made a gift to the VMI Foundation in Dick’s memory. In responding to the gift, Fran wrote: “ … VMI was everything to him throughout his life … engraved on the niche where his urn reposes are the words ‘In the Spirit.’ Perhaps that says it all.” James Pierce Chambers, 90, died in Reston, VA. Peck completed three years at the Institute, along with many of us. At the end of our second class year, he was named to the position of First Captain of the Corps of Cadets, to be served during our first class year. Active federal service eclipsed that prestigious opportunity, however, as he was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps in 1943. In time, he attained the rank of captain while serving as a radar/ radio officer in the Marshall Islands and on the island of Okinawa. In 1947, he joined the electronics firm of Melpar and remained with the company for 38 years. He became president and CEO in 1968. Peck helped organize our 55th Class Reunion at VMI with me and served as a principal host for a mini reunion the class held in Alexandria. We spent a memorable evening there as Peck’s guests at the Belle Haven Country Club. The class made a donation to the VMI Foundation in Peck’s memory. Col. Jack Harrison Montague, 90, died in Tampa, FL. Jack was also a VMI cadet for three years before going on active U.S. Army service. In his case, Jack was appointed to the U.S. Military Academy in 1943. He graduated from West Point in 1946 and served as an airborne infantryman, with an active service total of 30 years. He retired in 1974 as a full colonel, after serving during three wars and earning the Purple Heart in the Korean War, the Legion of Merit, and Army and Air Force Commendation Medals, among others. After military service, Jack and his wife, Ellie, made their home in Tampa, FL, where Jack was employed as an engineer by the city of Tampa from 1976-88. The class made a gift to the VMI Foundation in Jack’s memory. I called and expressed our sympathies to Jack’s daughter, Barbara

Gil. Ellie and Barbara wrote in appreciation. Arrangements have been completed and the donation made for the class gift to the Bob and Faye Jones Scholarship Fund at the Institute, honoring Egypt’s and Faye’s service to the class and to VMI. Thanks go to Ezra Trice for his assistance in this effort and to Jim Doss, Bob Helmen, Bob Sherrard, John Irby and Bill Eikelberg for their input. Egypt responded: “I want to thank the class for their donation to the cadet scholarship that Faye and I sponsor at VMI. We REALLY appreciate that, and I want to use your class notes to thank my Brother Rats and Sister Rats for supporting our effort.” Egypt also wrote about his recent 90th birthday party held at his and Faye’s home in Newport News. “Our guests, all family, included two daughters, one daughter-inlaw, four grandchildren and spouses, nine great-grandchildren, and a couple of live-in friends of the above – all within the ages of 63 to 1 year old. A great time was enjoyed by all – doing what each age group liked to do, besides just eat.” Does any of that sound familiar to the rest of us? In March, I went to Lexington (a day trip for me) to attend what was announced as an “Old Corps” luncheon. I was told that all alumni on the Alumni Association’s mailing list from classes that had passed the 50th Reunion milestone were invited to attend. Thus, the “Old Corps” was defined. The first-time event was staged by the Alumni Association in response to a suggestion by an alumnus. About 100-plus assembled in Marshall Hall at the Center for Leadership and Ethics. The luncheon speaker was Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System, who gave an entertaining, illustrated talk about some of the historical events associated with the origins and development of the Institute. This was followed by a graphic presentation in the center’s Gillis Auditorium by the Institute’s director of construction, covering recently completed building and facility projects, those currently underway and those in planning. “Old Corps” day continued at the Barracks, where the commandant of cadets, Col. Tom Trumps ’79, gave a talk featuring some of the contrasts in cadet life between the mid 1900s and today. He was able to address some of the issues that have arisen during his tenure as commandant and VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES how they have been dealt with. He then conducted a brief walk-through of the three elements of the Barracks complex. The next event was a selection of bagpipe numbers performed by two cadet members of the Pipe Band in the Jackson Memorial Hall, dressed in full regalia. The day’s events concluded with a visit to the VMI Museum. Based on interest shown, an “Old Corps” day may become a regular event. As a side note, I was the second most senior alumnus attending with very few from the 1940s. Tom Gentry’s son-in-law, Bruce Brennan (202/491-5583), has written that he and his wife, Louise, will keep Tom’s house in Lexington. It is filled with many memories for them – plus Tom’s extensive library. They will also keep up the garden but without the expertise that Tom brought to that mission. Bruce would like to hear from any of us with recollections or stories we might have about Tom. Many of us would remember Tom’s generosity in hosting two, separate class of 1944 reunion events in his garden. Sophie Parker wrote from her Milwaukee home that she has been recovering from a cracked wrist. By the time this appears in the Alumni Review, she should be fully recovered and back to driving again. We are so dependent on our cars for mobility; it’s a rude experience to be denied them. I am still driving, but the specter of losing that capability in the future is pretty grim. Nancy Ratrie wrote, thanking the class for the gift to the VMI Foundation as a memorial to Harry. She said that Harry was always so proud of being a VMI alumnus and so fond of all of his classmates. She is wintering in Naples but missing Harry lots! Art Taylor has written to bring me up to date on his activities. He and Bonnie continue their two-home pattern – one in Lexington and one in Camden, NC. He notes that the class of 1944 presence has declined significantly in Lexington with the losses of Tom Gentry and Johnny McClung. He notes that Jim Doss is slimmer and looks great. I have no further details on this but hope that it is the result of Scottie Haley’s influence. Art also commented about his long-time friendship with our honorary Brother Rat, John Barrett. Recent attempts to communicate with Jack Merchant in Las Vegas have failed, with mail for him being returned by the postal service. If anyone knows of his current 2013-Issue 3

whereabouts, please let me know. In April, I went to Lexington again, this time to attend a Class Agents Conference. This was a day and a half session, mostly about communicating with class members to strengthen our relationships, including what the Alumni Agencies can do to help this and about what class members can do to help the Institute achieve its goals. The high point of the conference was an hour and a half talk by the superintendent, Gen. Peay ’62, who delivered a very comprehensive overview of the challenges the Institute has faced, is facing and will face. The superintendent has an incredible grasp on his responsibilities and has achieved some very impressive results. I came away with a very distinct feeling that the Institute is in remarkably good hands but is in need of continued strong support of our alumni. No statistic illustrates this better than the fact that alumni and friends contribute 23 percent of the funds that comprise the annual operating budget of VMI. Interestingly, the state of Virginia provides a declining 17 percent. A few other interesting statistics that surprised me: Current enrollment – 1,664 cadets. Tuition and fees (includes room and board, etc.) – VA residents: $21,568. (58.5 percent) – Non-residents: $41,544. (41.5 percent) From these two recent visits, I must comment on how impressive the Institute facilities appear and what a delight it is to talk to some of the cadets. For many of us, it’s a long way to come for a visit, but I strongly encourage all to find a way to make the trip. Obviously, our 70th Reunion would be a perfect time. By the time you read this in the Alumni Review, it will be time to make serious plans. You will hear more about this later. We are currently in communication with 32 Brother Rats and 48 widows. As of May 1st, 16 of our Brother Rats have provided financial support to the Alumni Agencies at an obvious rate of 50 percent. With only a short time remaining in VMI’s fiscal year, some more participation is needed. We can do better. A letter is going out to all of the 80 above, urging your support. Please give this your serious consideration, and please don’t be offended by the letter if you have already made a generous contribution. With every good wish for each of you and stay well.

’45

Richard A. Matheis

Last week, I had the most pleasant class agent experience of my three years as your representative. It encompassed a Class Agent Conference (two-day meeting at the Institute and my first), a visit to Richmond with John Williams as host, and a mini, mini luncheon reunion in Lexington with local Brother Rats and their wives. John was at his best in Richmond, at the beginning and the end – the perfect host. If we weren’t sightseeing, we were eating in some awesome restaurant. His driving was something else though. The initial run included a drive down a narrow street with two cars parked across from each other. There didn’t seem to be enough room for his beautiful car. The situation didn’t faze nor slow down John. All I could think of was, “How good is his depth perception? He’s 89 YEARS OLD!” He made it with a couple of inches to spare. Whew! He wasn’t finished with his thrill-a-minute driving. At one point, we had to traverse a toll booth. He has a device on his car that permits him to go through an automatic gate. The gate was down until a split second before we arrived. With clenched teeth, I calmly said, “Gonna’ be close.” The gate wasn’t more than half way up as we passed underneath. His only comment was, “I’ve got these things timed!” From that point on, I called him “Cowboy.” After two days in Richmond, we drove to Lexington. The Post looks more attractive and imposing than ever. So many new buildings and athletic facilities. The $20,000,000 North Post is particularly impressive with its three athletic fields and indoor firing range. Those of you who only remember the original Barracks would be surprised by the appearance of three Barracks now. The list goes on and on. While there, I made a special effort to visit with two members of the Alumni Association staff who have been so helpful in the production of our class notes – Brenda Stoner and Norma Robinson. They have been fantastic. I’ve talked to them a thousand times but never met them. It gave me 51

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1945: Out to eat were, from left, Jim Morgan, John Williams, Nate Adams, Kay and Joe Gantt, Dick Matheis and Eloise Adams.

an opportunity to personally thank them on county. She further advised Bob’s eyesight behalf of the class of ’45. was not as sharp as in past years. The day The second and final day featured Gen. before, he informed her he missed his target Peay ’62 giving a two-hour “state of the of the day by at least five feet. Her suggesunion” message. Very impressive. Included tion was to get his gunsight recalibrated. in his presentation were the goals the What a considerate comment. Institute has these days for the profile of Jim, Joe and his wife, Kay, and Nate and its graduates. They are to excel in these his wife, Eloise, joined John and me at the three areas – academics, physical fitness Nikos Restaurant. We had a great time for and leadership. John and I arrived at VMI the better part of two hours. Nate’s apbefore the meetings began and took a tour pearance was doubly appreciated, after we of the facilities. We were amazed at all the learned from Eloise that he had a heart atphysical activities – calisthenics, running groups, team practicing, etc. The new North Post lies north of the Barracks in a valley. On our way down, we passed a small female cadet carrying a back pack almost as large as she was. She was jogging up that steep grade. We decided that, if this was a current version of a penalty tour, she must have been very, very bad! Class of 1945: Capt. Bucky Redwine at Iwo We had the privilege of meeting with his P-51, June 1944. many of the first classmen, both male and female. Without exception, we tack two weeks earlier. Further, he put us all were greatly impressed with their maturity, to shame with his attire, blue blazer and all. self-confidence and stature. There was Afterward, John decided to not use the no doubt in our minds that Gen. Peay’s interstate on the return to Richmond, but objective of developing leadership in the rather the old two-lane highway, so as to Corps is being achieved. We left Lexington visit the site of his great-grandfather’s more proud of the Institute and its cadets home and current resident, his son, Jack. than ever. The thought of driving 130 miles on twoThe highlight of our trip was an impromp- lane roads with the Cowboy at the wheel tu luncheon held in downtown Lexington. caused a little apprehension, but he handled I invited the four who live near or in the the task very well. Meeting Jack made vicinity – Morgan, Gantt, Adams and the choice of roads a good move. He is Moore. All attended except Bob Moore. a most impressive individual. I mention His wife, Libby, advised he was again out this, because one of his many accomplishhunting the elusive wild turkeys of the ments was his driving in NASCAR races. 52

Now, where do you suppose those genes came from? Once back at John’s house, I decided to make a couple of phone calls to local Brothers Rats, Bill Curdts and Buddy Metz. Bill recently moved permanently from Windermere, FL, back to his roots in Richmond. He sounded great, as did Buddy, as well. Buddy’s voice was so strong, I was wishing mine could match his. All in all, the trip was a great experience. Hope I didn’t test your patience with the details. Our class roster took a big hit since the last issue. We lost Bo Coppedge (12/26/12), Bucky Redwine (2/5/13) and Bob Gammon (4/11/13). Bo spent two years at VMI before entering the Naval Academy and graduating in 1947. He was in the submarine service and later was director of athletics at Annapolis for 20 years. Bucky followed up his one and one-half years at VMI with BA degree from Yale. During WWII, he flew P-51s in the SW Pacific and retired as a captain. He later was successfully active in the banking world in Athens, GA. Bob spent one year at VMI and graduated from UVa after the war. During his military service, he flew B-24s out of Italy. His business career was principally as an executive in the educational field. All three will no doubt be missed by family, friends and Brother Rats. We extend our sympathies to the families. Before his death in 1996, Butch Jima Robinson founded and funded a scholarship known as the “Class of 1945 Athletic Scholarship.” John Williams is presently the custodian of the foundation and invites contributions from his Brother Rats. The current recipient is Cadet Daniel P. Kitchen ’14, a soccer player. Cadet Kitchen sent a letter of appreciation to John, excerpts from which I thought might be of interest to you as members of the class of ’45. His comments were as follows: “I am writing to you today to thank you for giving me the opportunity to be a cadet athlete at VMI. Your scholarship is allowing me to achieve my goals both academically and athletically. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES “I am continuing to work hard, and I am of their comments, particularly the events enhancing my knowledge, both on and off surrounding their families. I am always the field. With this scholarship, I am able to pushing the Review’s space limitations as better prepare myself for the future. it is. Please forgive. “Through my three years, I have grown RAMblings: so much as a person, and I have learned the A call came in from right after the deadvalues of dedication and hard work. With line for the previous issue from my reliable the quality education I am receiving, I will Oklahoma correspondent, Bob Allen. He be prepared for whatever career I intend again had visited Verne Chaney in New to follow. The values that I receive from York, which he seems to enjoy on a regular VMI will better me, both as a cadet and as basis. a worker in the civilian world.” Bob also mentioned that the young lady, It appears the fund has a winner in this Fran, he married a couple of years ago young man. was formerly a backyard neighbor who he My program of requesting information had known for over 50 years. I could play from previous class agents regarding their games with that but best I leave it alone. experiences since cadet days is winding Another event right after the last deadline. down with this issue featuring Jack New- I received a phone call from Dan Walser. comb who held the position 1963-64. He He was visiting his daughter, Tracey – here provided me with detailed info regarding in Naples, FL! In moments, Sandra and I his military experiences which I have taken were on the way downtown to join them and the liberty of summarizing. Dan’s wife, Connie, for an hour or so. Sure Jack entered the Army in summer 1943. wish more of you could make your way He was assigned to the signal corps and down here, particularly in season. received his training at Fort Monmouth, Another phone conversation I had was NJ. He was shipped to New Guinea and sad, yet humorous. Without mentioning later participated in the invasion of the names, I made one of my random calls Philippines. The division before his in the regarding an e-mail address to a BR, and invasion contained two of our Brother Rats, his wife answered. She immediately recogGeorge Hughes and Jim Allison. nized my name and favorably commented Jack was in the Philippines many months on the notes. She then put her husband on during the cleanup operations. They were the phone. After I told him the purpose of preparing for the invasion of Japan when my call, he shouted to his wife, “Dick wants the war ended. to know our e-mail address.” I thought Jack was discharged in 1946, returned that was rather strange but soon got my to VMI and graduated in 1948. He mar- answer. She obviously moved into another ried Manette Stone of Roanoke two days room and informed me his memory had after graduation. He was employed by pretty much left him as well as his sight. General Electric until 1951, at which time As a result, when they receive the advanced he returned to Roanoke and was employed copy of the notes, which he eagerly awaits, by Richardson-Wayland Electric and was she reads them to him. When the Review involved in a number of large industrial arrives three months later, he again enjoys projects. He rose to the position of VP in 1960 and retired in 1999. The mail from our sisters has been a pleasant surprise from time to time. Since the last issue, I’ve heard from Jo Pittman, Elizabeth Welles and Chappie Thrift. In addition to the numerous phone conversations with the ladies, I’m beginning to think they enjoy the notes as much, if not more than, my BRs! Class of 1945: From left, Hugh Dischinger, Sam Butch Robinson and Claude Wilson, fall 1941. I only wish I could pass on some 2013-Issue 3

her reading them to him, since he has forgotten hearing them the first time. She laughed while telling me this. Therefore, I know she will not mind my telling the story as a point of humor. Vic Bray checked in by phone a short time ago. He reported that all is as well as could be expected and that he still lives in McLean, VA (probably the only one who is not with or retired from the CIA). Also told me he married his Ring Figure date, PJ, and they have now been married 68 years. Bless PJ’s heart. My attempt to verify our roster as to who is still with us failed miserably – about a 50% response. Upon further review, I sure hope it was a failure! I’ll keep working on it and will give you a headcount when completed. To those who did not respond, please help whenever you can. Under the heading of “Are You Alright?” Bob Pettrigrew, our far west correspondent, sends us the following story regarding an 89-year-old “friend.” I just know, intuitively, he is talking about himself. Here goes, with a bit of editing: “I’ve been getting old for quite some time now. Although my hair aged grey at an early age, I took little note of it, until one day, I heard the ‘sir’ word. ‘What’s with the sir bit?’ I asked myself? I can’t be THAT old. Later, a lady in a crowded bus (in Casper, WY) got up and offered me her seat. Checking to see if anyone noticed, I slowly descended into the offered seat. On another occasion, during a routine morning walk, I stopped and leaned against a stone wall to stretch my aching back. A woman soon stopped her car in the middle of the street and asked if I was all right? Another street incident: I was waiting to cross a street, looking for a break in traffic. A woman on the other side was watching and finally asked if she could help me cross. After looking at her and judging her age, I should have been the one to help her!” So much for life in lovely, lively Casper. That’s it for now. Incidentally, plans are already underway for our 70th Reunion. Hang in there! God bless VMI and the class Walker, of ’45. Dick 53

CLASS NOTES

’46

William A. Eliason

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the class of 1946 for this issue.

’47

Gus Robbins

Recently, VMI hosted a class agent/class leadership two-day workshop in Lexington which I attended on behalf of you who so kindly passed this class agent job on to me last year. It was well attended, nicely presented, and Betty Lane and I enjoyed being in Lexington again in the spring. The drive down I-81 was just beautiful with the redbud in full bloom and so profuse along the stretch from I-64 to Lexington. You Brother Rats have tried really hard to answer my call for info for the quarterly, and I truly appreciate all your efforts and do hope you will keep up the good work. Many thanks to those of you who have e-mailed or called in the last three months. It is hard to believe it is May already … time truly does fly by. I received a nice note from Brian C. Fries, Kansas City, MO, who is the son-in-law of Bill Stapleton. Bill had passed away in 1999, and Brian sent the sad news that his wife, Ann, passed away this year in January. Bill and Ann had attended the mini-reunion in September 1983, held in honor of the football team of 1943 which was made up of almost all of our Brother Rats. Bill was a starting end on that team. Brian reports that Ann enjoyed the VMI class notes news. It really is remarkable how, over the years, the widowed Sister Rats for ’47 have maintained a lively interest in the news of ’47s and the Institute. Our traveling twosome, Mary Ann and Jim Sizer, sent a nice, sunny looking postcard from St. Petersburg, FL, at the end of February. They did not say how long they would be there, probably so as not to make us envious! Delighted to hear from Jorge Sarmiento that all was going well in Lima, Peru. He and Delia spent a month in Chile at the home of 54

Delia’s daughter, Deborah, and brought in the New Year there. Jorge spends a lot of time keeping up with the high tech world. So, he was able to hook up with some new VMI videos on YouTube, and among them were the Inaugural Parade, the class of ’14 Ring Figure, the New Market Parade and several others. He says he sits alone at his computer sometimes and remembers his time at the Institute and his Brother Rats and counts that time as one of the most important turning points in his life. I think many of us can agree with Jorge on that feeling. Another regular correspondent, Lucius Dabney, also sends a bit of news from Vicksburg, MS. He is holding up well, he says, and enjoys walking two miles every morning and working on following doctor’s orders by maintaining weight control. He plans to continue his law practice as long as the state of Mississippi will license him! Allene has her macular degeneration well under control with injections every six weeks or so. They are expecting their annual visit from BR Dick Spencer who goes back to his hometown of Waco, TX, each spring … Vicksburg is about a halfway point. Lucius says the Mississippi VMI alumni chapter is very quiet these days. He and Roger Rosenfield went to a dinner meeting about a year and a half ago and were introduced as the oldest alumni present, so maybe that’s why they haven’t been back? I reported a change of address in the last class notes for Roger and Lynn Rosenfield. So, Betty Lane and I made a stop in Raleigh, NC, on our way to Charlotte at the end of March and found them in their new quarters, which were awesome! They are in a most attractive retirement community just off I-85 on the outskirts of Raleigh. Their new home is near their daughter in Raleigh, so that was one of the determining factors in their choice of Raleigh vs. the other offerings by the same developer in Hilton Head and Charlotte. We enjoyed a delicious lunch in their lovely dining room and then had a lovely walk around the lake that is at the center of all the units and a tour of the facilities available to them. It is an impressive place, and I just had a note from Roger today that they are truly enjoying the good life! Kudos to them for making the adjustment after all those years living in Jackson, MS. Jo and John Ewell are holding their own, as John reports from Front Royal, VA. He had

36 sessions of cardiac rehab after his major surgery last fall, but he is now doing his therapy at a local hospital cardiac monitoring station. They were looking forward to a family reunion in June at Pawley’s Island, SC, with John’s four sisters – ages 93, 89, 83 and 81 – and a number of nieces and nephews … maybe 25-30 in all. John’s parents really passed on some longevity genes, it seems! Helen Gillespie is happy for spring days to be able to get on the golf course at the Lexington Country Club again. She had a good phone visit recently with Stock Fleming ’47 and ’49C, who is recovering from two brain hemorrhage surgeries of several months ago. That inspired me to give Stock a ring, and he and I enjoyed catching up. I was very encouraged with his recovery going so well and the fact that he is back on his farm outside of Lexington, VA. BR Louis Hundley reports he is a permanent member of the gim. He has recently been in Stonewall Jackson Hospital in the ER with a diabetic emergency and now has to be on insulin shots. Louis, we hate to hear of these recent maladies, but hopefully, there is a rainbow out there soon. The old joke about the little boy and the pony for a Christmas present goes, “If there is all this horse stuff here, there must be a pony somewhere!” Hang in there, BR. Suellen Garrison says her most exciting activity is duplicate bridge two or three times a week. Hopefully, she has winning hands most of the time. Delores Gelly sends an interesting letter with lots of her family news. She recently had a visit from her daughter, Mary Ann, and husband Paul and their two sons who came from Ireland. So, that was a real treat for her. One of her granddaughters lives and works in Boston, MA, but called to tell Delores that she was OK after the horrible bombing recently. Her son, George, who works for Intuit, was just granted a patent for “Method and System for Interactive Health Regimen Activity and Patient Monitoring.” Of course, she is quite proud to report that. Delores lives in western North Carolina. Margaret Nichol is home with Ridley most of the time but is blessed with wonderful caregivers for him. He has good and bad days but still retains his delightful sense of humor. A few months back, a new minister at their church came by and shook Ridley’s hand and said hello. Ridley responded with, VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES “Who in the hell are you?” You can imagine the chuckles in the surrounding pews! The week of April 12th, 22 of Ridley’s family, including great-grands, gathered to celebrate his 87th birthday. Their grandson-in-law is serving in the Army and is now stationed at Fort Collins, OK, but is being transferred to Fort Steward in Georgia and will be closer to them. Margaret had talked with Anita and Marshall Brittain ’49C, and they were headed to Tampa, FL, to visit their son and family for a few days. In the “It’s a small world” category … Betty Lane and I were in Costa Rica at a plantation in the rain forest at the tail end of our cruise to the Panama Canal in February when a lovely lady approached and asked where we were from in Virginia, as she overheard us say we lived in Virginia. When we told her Chester, she smiled and said she had been to our house as a guest of Becky and Onza Hyatt ’58 several years ago on their way to their 50th Class Reunion at the Institute! She thought she recognized us but just couldn’t remember where. Consequently, we enjoyed the company of Elizabeth and Ernie Edgar ’58 from Auburn, AL, the two last nights on the ship for dinner. Ernie was career Army and was commandant of cadets at VMI in the ’70s. We just recently had dinner with them again at the Hyatt’s, as those four were on their way to their 55th! After a delightful phone call from Mary Tomes, Bill Hallett’s daughter, who encouraged us to visit Marty Hallett in her new apartment in an assisted living facility in Richmond, VA, we finally got over there and had a grand, short visit with Marty. She looked quite well and was as pretty as ever. We chatted about her loss of dear Bill, and she commented often on how supportive her girls have been these last few months. We were heartened by our visit. As old Bugs Bunny would say … That’s all folks! Have a great summer all of you! In the spirit, Gus III Addendum: The sad news is that Marty passed away on the evening of May 13, 2013. She was a fine lady and a great part 2013-Issue 3

of the class life and get-togethers over the years. Funeral services were private for the family only. Cards can be sent to their daughter, Mary Tomes, at 13140 Auburn Mill Lane, Glen Allen, VA 23059.

’48B

Louis Castellano Jr.

George Peter Ramsey III ’72, son of our Brother Rat George Ramsey, has been elected president of the VMI Board of Visitors. Well done, Harriet and George. We had a very successful and wonderful reunion on April 22 and 23, 2013. Hopefully, The 65th Reunion for 1948A was held on we will set up another reunion within the Monday and Tuesday, April 22-23, 2013. next two or three years. A special thank you Medical problems being widespread, atten- goes to George Ramsey and Doug Hamner dance was more limited than hoped. John for all that they have done. One interesting and Barbara Trumbo came from Stuart’s observation that I have made is that those of Draft for the formal ’48A dinner in the Ex- us who survived the Ratline, for the most part, ecutive Dining Room of the Alumni Hall. were very successful in our careers. We had a Paul and Sarah Stagg and their daughter, rear admiral in the Navy, John V. Josephson; Valerie Ford, also made the trip. Dale a general in the Army, John B. McGiffert; Wykoff was the third Brother Rat who was several lieutenant colonels; and at least eight able to attend. Dora Meler came from New to 10 have become physicians. We started with Jersey, and it was fun talking to her about a Rat class of 153 and probably after the first her much-respected father, Ted. The VMI year were down to 120. Could the Ratline, Alumni Association was represented at the the Honor Court and the entire environment, dinner by Matt and Joellyn Schwarzmann especially during the Rat year, have that type ’90. At the parade earlier in the afternoon, of impact? I truly don’t think the level of sucwe hoped that Paul could be pushed in his cess is a coincidence. There must be some wheelchair, but that proved to be too diffi- underlying experience that molds, creates cult. Because of a health concern, John and and generates the unusual success that our Barbara Trumbo had to skip the parade. Brother Rats have enjoyed. The internal huThat left Dale Wykoff to carry the ’48A man dimension that permits us to survive the banner and make the walk into the Barracks, Ratline translates into success in later years. where our class was acknowledged by the Those who were in attendance at the much-appreciated “Old Yell” from the entire reunion included Alberto, Guin, Laine, Corps. As more reunion photographs become Hamner, Lawson, Mills, Nalven, Ramsey, available, they will be shared with the 10 Warrington, Wolford and Castellano. remaining members of the class. During our dinner on April 23rd at the museum, our Brother Rat George Ramsey was relating an experience that proved somewhat difficult emotionally. However, taking courage from the performance by George, I tried to relate an experience that I had in my Rat year. Probably halfway through the narration, it was more than difficult to tell the whole story, so I thought I would give a brief summary of it. Back in 1944, Mr. and Mrs. Van Wagner came to visit me at VMI. Having visitors when one Class of 1948A: John and Barbara Trumbo at the class’s 65th is in the Ratline is like a day of Reunion, April 2013. liberation. Unfortunately, their

’48A

Dale E. Wykoff

CLASS NOTES

65th Reunion April 22-23, 2013

Class of 1948A Class of 1948A: From left, Dick Trumbo, Paul Stagg and Dale Wykoff.

65th Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April 22-23, 2013

Class of 1948B

Class of 1948B: Row 1: Charles Alberto, Elliott Laine Jr., Billy Guin, Lionel Wolford and Doug Hamner Jr. Row 2: Lou Castellano Jr. and Malachi Mills. Row 3: James Warrington, Frank Lawson III, George Ramsey Jr. and Henry Nalven.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES pitcher who, in 1951, gave up the famous home run to Bobby Thompson. As the class agent, I receive a statement from the Alumni Office concerning the amount that each Brother or Sister Rat contributes. Quite frankly, I am not interested in the amount, and I have written a letter to the Alumni Office suggesting that the information given should be limited to just the names of those contributing without the amount of the contribution. Bob Duke has two detached retinas which, unfortunately, can be very disabling. Art Pinkston has suffered a stroke. John Eldridge can’t travel far from home. Lou Schwartz is very limited as to what he can do. Al Stupalsky is unable to travel but urged Doug Hamner Class of 1948B: A spray of flowers is placed each to give his best regards to all year on the grave of Alfred Van Wagner, the son of Brother Rats. friends of Lou Castellano, who was killed during Recently, I received a call the Battle of the Bulge. Wagner is buried in the from Doug Hamner that our American Cemetery in Luxembourg. good friend and Brother Rat Paul Applin passed away. son, Alfred, was killed in the Battle of the Most of the information concerning the Bulge. However, to kind of repay Mr. and activities and health of our Brother Rats Mrs. Van Wagner for their visit to VMI, my was furnished by Doug Hamner. wife, Sherrie, and I visited the American Last but not least, grateful appreciation to Cemetery in Luxembourg, where Al Van Carole Green of the Alumni Office who put Wagner is buried. Further, this short story all the pieces together to make our reunion was much easier to write about than to talk a success. about. Each year, my wife and I arrange for a floral arrangement to be placed at his James Harrington grave site on the anniversary of his death. I spoke to Charlie Brown who did not attend our reunion. However, Charlie is still active in the oil business and has wells that produce 400 barrels a day. His expertise is separating the water from the oil. According In a difficult telephone call from Joe Fil, I to Charlie, the best investment you can make learned that he’s having a hard time. Suzie is in an international oil company. has had a series of physical difficulties, and I caught up with Ed Laraja, who left VMI Joe is experiencing bureaucratic road blocks after his Rat year, went into the Merchant to his business affairs. He asked me to apoloMarines, got discharged and then went to gize to all of you that he is currently unable Colgate. Ed was in the food business until to send us an update. I think you should each he retired many years ago. He lives in both send Joe a “hug,” as well as one to Suzie. Greenwich, CT, and, in the summertime, Here’s a short note from Herb Johnston: Quogue, Long Island. I hope to catch up “Not much new here except to say we are with him this summer. Ed was a good friend doing OK. Jeanne is still in the process of of Ralph Branca, the Brooklyn Dodger recovering from her auto-immune vascilitis

’49A

2013-Issue 3

illness. We were told recovery would be four to six months. She is now in the sixth month and improving but not well. We hope we will be able to do our North Carolina vacation this summer. We will fly rather than drive to the Outer Banks. We will really miss the beautiful drive and our stop at Lexington.” Allen Penniman’s (relatively) short note this time is somewhat different: “In thinking about some of my recent letters to our class, I realize I have spent considerable time writing about various family activities and some of the family members themselves. The reason for this is that Joanie and I do spend a great amount of time being involved with family. They live from one side of this country to the other, California to Massachusetts. That is a huge area to cover, and there are many family members scattered in between. Having said this, I was involved with one of my grandsons in Rhode Island last month. It was a very important visit that we had, and I would like to tell you about this: “About the grandson. His name is Will Coutret, and he is a son of Caroline’s, Joanie’s second daughter. Will is a graduate of the University of New Mexico and is 25 years old. For the last several years, he has been thinking and talking about joining the military service. I have visited with him a number of times about this choice and have encouraged him to do what he feels is best for him. During these numerous visits, he told me that he had decided to join the Navy and would like to become a pilot. We talked at length about this decision, and there was no question in my mind that he had thought the matter out carefully and was determined to follow this path. This he did, and he volunteered in the Navy and then was assigned to the base in Newport, Rhode Island. Throughout his stay in Newport, we talked frequently on the phone. It was interesting to me how much of his stay involved discipline, shined shoes and some of the same regimen we went through when we entered VMI. There was a class system, and he was taught and managed by those who had gone through this before him. Even the meals were difficult, just like they were for us when we were first at VMI. In fact, a lot of his training was the same, and it was interesting to me to see how this system had survived for so many years. Suffer … and learn and grow. “After his assignment in Newport, he was ready for graduation. Joanie and I flew to 57

CLASS NOTES Providence and then to Newport to attend the ceremony. The graduation ceremony was most inspiring. There were 88 members of his class, and all of them were graduates from various colleges and universities in our country. Most of the parents were there, and his class was made up of some of the finest looking young men and women I had ever seen. They came from all walks of life but were bonded together by the class system and their commitment to serve our country. It was a grand sight to see. When they were formed to parade for the visitors and guests and the battalion was called to ‘attention’ and then the command to ‘dress right,’ I stood up and clapped. It took me back to my VMI days, and there it was, right before my eyes. What I felt was that my grandson was receiving some of the same things you and I received when we enrolled at the Institute. It was a wonderful occasion, and Joanie and I were so proud of him and what he has chosen to do with his life. I cannot express the depth of my feelings during this ceremony. This is probably one of the most important things that has ever happened in our family. “And so, this is my story about my grandson, Will Coutret. “I am happy to add that Joanie and I are both fine and send each and every one of you our best wishes.” And as for the Harringtons, we are in the midst of some minor remodeling at our home on the Island and are preparing for our annual summer “Camp Chaos” gathering of the grandchildren, who usually clutter up our home as soon as the swimming pool is back in shape. In the meantime, I have to keep prodding the absent BRs for news, with little result, as you can see. Better luck next time.

’49B

Dan Smaw

These are the class notes covering the period of mid-February through mid-May. Our Brother Rat Leo Soucek died peacefully at Walter Reed Medical Center on the evening of April 2, 2013, after a valiant fight against COPD and several other serious medical problems. Leo had been there for two weeks, constantly surrounded by at least one family member 24 hours a day. 58

He has had serious medical problems for several years, keeping him in and out of hospitals and nursing homes. His memorial service and burial with full military honors will be held at Arlington National Cemetery sometime in September. We will be informed of the details as they become available. Our deepest condolences go to Evelyn and their children – Leanne, Leo Jr. and Steven – on their great loss. On March 4, I received a call from Lillian Shirley, the daughter of our Brother Rat George Ritchie, informing me that her father died Jan. 23, 2013. He was one of several BRs who left after a year to enter the Naval Academy, from which he graduated. Lillian told me he always thought highly of VMI and his Brother Rats. Also, he contributed to Annual Giving every year. Our condolences to Lillian and the family. Joe Spitler said in February that he had had hip replacement repair which would require about a month of PT. Other than that, everything was fine. Charlie Hurt called and left a message in February saying he enjoys reading the class notes, etc. He thinks he will probably attend the 65th Reunion. I hope to see you there, Charlie – it has been too long. Greg Nelson wrote in February saying he and Kitty were fine and were planning an anniversary trip to Pawley’s Island at the end of April. Ding Patton wrote in late February saying he and Nobbie were back from the month of cruising they had done. Included was a picture of Nobbie on a zip line in Haiti. She looked like she was enjoying the ride. Tommy Bowers called in early March to say that he and Pam were just back from a couple of months of arduous duty in Antigua. They returned to find their computer had a serious virus problem which Mack Van Hook pointed out to them – it took a while to get corrected. They had come from the sunny Caribbean to Morehead City, NC, and 28-degree weather – a real shock to the system. Boyd Guttery called in early March to get Tommy Altizer’s e-mail. He had a new barber, a lady, who, he found out in the course of the conversation, knew about Dr. Whitten and the boys he had raised. Among them were Tommy Altizer and Danny Myers. I don’t remember, but it seems to me she was from somewhere in southwest Virginia.

I need to take better notes; sorry, Boyd. In talking with Lon Walter in March, I learned he no longer has a computer; that came as a surprise to me, since he and Mack Van Hook were the ones who shamed me into getting one. His phone number is 210/646-5701, and I am sure he would enjoy talking with any BR who calls. Both Greg Nelson and Ding Patton wrote to say they, along with Nux Enochs, Mack Van Hook and George Wolfe, attended the first-ever Old Corps Luncheon Event in Lexington on March 26. The event started with a delicious luncheon in the Center for Leadership and Ethics where the seating was by class. Col. Keith Gibson ’77 had an interesting talk on the history of VMI. That was followed by a briefing on all the recently completed construction and plans for future construction. Next was a tour of the three Barracks led by Commandant Col. Tom Trumps ’79. The final event of the day was a tour of the newly renovated museum in the bottom of J.M. Hall. Col. Gibson was the host for that. Ding pointed out that our class ring was in the ’49C spot rather than the ’49B spot. Nux and Greg stayed the night in Alumni Hall and rose early to join Col. Trumps in taking the “pass in review,” following a short inspection of the BRC formation by cadet officers. They had breakfast in Crozet Hall with Col. Trumps and his deputy, then headed back to Richmond. They enjoyed sitting with Col. Trumps and getting up to speed on the latest in Keydet routines, things that have worked and those that have not worked, experiments in adjustments to Keydet life and routines, regulations, etc. In early April, Jimmy Shepherd wrote that he, like most of the class, was slowing down. He had a fall a year or so ago and hit his head pretty hard but is now OK. Being beaten up reminded him of his late brother, Everett ’48B, on the football field. He and his parents saw Everett play in three games before Jimmy became a Rat, and he got carried off the field in every game. Coach Hubert said if the whole team played as hard as Everett, they would all be All-Americans. George Dooley called in early April and said he had recently seen Eddie Davis who has the same medical problem that Leo had – COPD. Eddie is doing fairly well. George said Nada Sweeney recently had hip replacement surgery to replace an earlier VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES one. He and Jane are doing as well as can be expected for our age. Tommy Bowers wrote to say the Soucek family had asked him to write a few words that might be used in an obituary – he and Leo were roommates. There were two things that immediately came to his mind. All of us were expected to sit around our green table with a lamp in the center and study in the evening. Tommy says the rest of Leo’s roommates had a short attention span and soon were talking, laughing or walking around, but Leo stayed with head down and eyes glued to the pages of his work. Somehow, Leo had the ability to shut them out and stay focused on his studies. When he finished his work, he would get up and laugh and play with the others, who would be complaining about what they had to do. That trait of character developed at an early age before VMI, carried him through VMI and earned him academic stars because of his top grades. The second thing Tommy remembered was that, at age 15, Leo was the school bus driver for his school. That meant he had to get up very early in the morning and not return home until every child had been dropped off at their home in that very rural area. In addition to the long hours, he had to maintain discipline and order on the bus – heavy tasks for a 15-year-old. Grover Outland called in April to let me know that they have a grandson, Matthew James Outland, who will be entering the Ratline in August. He and Teancy were going to stop by to visit the Bowers in late April on their way to Myrtle Beach. The ’49Bs will have two grandsons at VMI this fall, since the Van Hooks’ grandson, Tyler Corcoran, will also be entering the Ratline in August. I talked with Jack Evans in early May, and he said about the same thing Tommy had said about Leo and his study habits, as well as the bus driving – he was also a roommate. Jack is in the process of learning about his computer. He has gotten to the stage where he knows a bit about e-mail but wants to get a little more advanced than that. He was getting ready to go putting with a friend after we talked. His carpal tunnel syndrome keeps him from playing golf, but he thinks he can grip a putter OK – hope you are right, Jack. I talked with Lon and Doris Walter, and 2013-Issue 3

they had just gotten back from the Randolph AFB commissary. They said it is only two blocks from where they live in the Army Residence Community to Randolph. Their grandson, Matthew, Terry’s older son, is finishing up his second class year at the Air Force Academy. Harv Bradley said he is a little better than he had been but still not great and not ready to play golf yet. Their community had a massive yard sale, but he was not ready to put his golf clubs up for sale. He said they have their second great-grandson, and he needs to get him an appointment to VMI. The first one already has one. Charlie Upshaw says he is doing OK being the caregiver for Laura, even though he is not a great cook. Sounds like me, but I am lucky, also, in that Louise doesn’t complain. Charlie said the best way to do well is to stay away from doctors. I bet this was not his advice when he was in practice. I called Vaughn Maxwell and had a very nice conversation with Izzey. Vaughn was away having some lab work done. Izzey said he has been getting stronger and is getting out a little. He uses a walker and receives home therapy twice a week until June, when he will return to the V.A. for therapy. He is determined to be in shape and able to attend the 65th, which is only 10 and one-half months away. We are counting on you being there, Vaughn. Mack Van Hook wrote that he went to see Beanie Branch, and he is holding on well. Mack says the place where Beanie lives is a fine retirement home, and his boys did a good job arranging it. I talked with Helen Casey in May and found her doing well. She does water aerobics regularly which she says keeps her limbered up – at least for a short period. Her sister who lives nearby is having some health problems, including short-term memory loss. Helen talks with Doris Walter from time to time. In mid-April, the class agents received word that Pat Webb, the vice president for Annual and Reunion Giving, was going to retire at the end of June. He has been in the job for nine years and done an outstanding job and will be sorely missed, not only by the class agents, but by the Foundation. Pat is the one who wrote the solicitation letters that went out twice a year. It was the one for the end of 2012 that Joe Spitler said was

the best solicitation letter asking for funds that he had ever read. Pat is a Texas A&M graduate and a retired Army colonel. At the recent Class Agent’s Conference, which I did not attend, Pat received several gifts from the agents in appreciation for all he has done for VMI and for the help he has given us in doing our job. I wish you a long and happy retirement, Pat. I was just about to send these notes to VMI when Ed Watling’s e-mail came, saying Deegee had a bad fall and suffered irreparable brain damage from which she died on May 9, 2013. There will be a Catholic Mass offered at St. John the Beloved in McLean, VA, on Wednesday, May 15, at 1300, followed by a reception at a local restaurant. Interment will be at Arlington National Cemetery at a later date. Our sincere condolences to Ed, their four children, nine grandchildren and Deegee’s two sisters on their great loss. Thanks to all who have contributed to Annual Giving. God bless America, VMI and ’49B.

’49C

Haywood France

Hello, summer. It finally arrived, and the number is three. That is the number of times Review notes will be due before our 65th Reunion and the close of my term as your class agent. It has been a good four-plus years, except for the bad news I had to circulate. I am looking for a volunteer for the next five. Received a long e-mail from Cappy Moncure’s daughter describing the problems Cappy and Connie Moncure have endured this past March and April. Troubles began with Cappy going to the hospital with prostate and blood pressure problems. After a period, he was transferred to rehab where the entire family contracted the Noro-Virus. Cappy and Connie were both hospitalized, and Kate, her husband and sister all survived at home. I am happy to report that, in the latest communication, they are all home and thankful to be there. If he is still kicking, Cappy, Connie and Kate plan to be at the 65th. I also talked with Stock Fleming, and he sounded great. He still has trouble with 59

CLASS NOTES his speech and is still undergoing therapy. However, we should keep up the cards and letters. Eddie Davis called and was lining up his Florida reservation so that it wouldn’t interfere with the upcoming 65th. Had a brief note from Georgia Hening stating that she had been in the hospital with congestive heart failure but was doing better. Like many of us, she had slowed to about a “creep.” She sends her love and prayers to all of the ’49Cs. I received letters from the nine recipients who received support from the ’49C Scholarship Fund for the year 2013-14. They were very appreciative and stated they were able to be at VMI due to the assistance they received. They had high praise for what VMI meant to their lives and plans for the future. As of May 7, 2013, we have received answers to the reunion questionnaire from 17 of the 31 BR/SR on the ’49C mailing list. Eleven are planning to attend, if possible. That’s a good response, and I hope it continues to increase. More on the reunion will be coming as the date gets closer. Keep the Spirit. Addendum: I received the following information after the above quarterly Review notes had already been submitted. We lost another Brother Rat. Eddie Davis died on May 8, 2013, at his home in Milford, CT. I talked with Rosemarie, and she said he died peacefully in his sleep which would have been his choice as the way to go. Please keep Rosemarie and the family in your prayers.

’50A

Bill Moore

Kenny Stagg tells me that he and BJ are planning a trip to Greece and Turkey in October, if they can put their tour group together. I hope so. It’ll give me something more to write about. BJ’s real estate business has been so good that it has been difficult for them to find time for a trip of that length. I hope this trip pans out for them. Both are active and well, and most of us have found out that you’d better do these things while you can. Mary (Joe) Ripley and her daughter, Anne, took a trip to Asheville recently. They 60

found Asheville a little chilly in April but enjoyed their two days at Biltmore and several more days at the nearby International Music Festival with 8,000 people. She sounds great and feels just as good. Dick Mandt reports from the Summit Place of Mooresville, NC, where he is residing, that he hopes to soon move back to his home at Lake Norman. His son, Richard, is at their home recovering from a stroke he suffered last year. Richard, like Dick, is doing nicely and will be driving as soon as he gets a couple of modifications to the family Buick. I understand this involves a spinner on the steering wheel and an extension to the turn signal lever. That’ll be a great improvement in the lifestyle of both father and son. Dick sounds good and apparently has had no further complications from past health problems. He is also looking forward to a luncheon on a steamboat on Lake Norman. The ship’s captain better carefully search Dick for an illicit fishing rod before he boards. Gene Witcher recently took a nice trip to the Big Bend country of Texas with a favorite cousin. I wish I could do justice to his account of the fun/adventures of two compatible old men hiking, gazing at the scenery and chewing the fat together. The Big Bend area is one of Gene’s favorite places to visit and revisit. Speaking of two old men and some adventures (hopefully), Gene and I are trying to work out some way to visit Key West together. Neither of us has ever been there, and it’s on both of our bucket lists. A lot depends on my Anne’s ability to travel. She loves to travel, and it seems to do her a lot of good. Joanne (Ed) Miller is busy, busy with grandchildren in, going to and just out of college. Her oldest, Alexandria, graduated from UVa in May. Eric is at Villanova, and Rebecca will enter the University of South Carolina this fall. Joanne and I both wonder whatever happened to all those little kids we used to have around. Our oldest, Emma, graduated magna cum laude in English (Granpop just has to brag a little!) from William and Mary in May and will be going to work for a publishing company in Manhattan. David’s and Jennifer’s oldest, Hailey, is going to Bridgewater this fall. All our other grandkids are busy as bees with you name it – school, dance, music, sports. Nan Hudgins says that Elliott has been

getting good reports from his doctors but did have a small TIA lasting only a few minutes recently. However, with his history of strokes, the doctors were all over it, and all is well. Elliott and Nan had a big combination Mother’s Day and 50th anniversary party with three generations present. Good times were had by all. They recently ran into Grover Outland III ’81 at a gathering. You will all remember his father, Grover Outland Jr. ’49B. Nice guy for a third. He and his wife are still around Norfolk and doing well. Anne and I are doing well for a couple of old folks. We’re “keepin’ on keeping up,” as Bill Clark was fond of saying. Our most pressing problem is Anne’s increasing memory loss. We manage to cope. I’m grateful that she has no personality change. She is still the same lovely person she has always been. Another story from ’50A’s glory days in Barracks. This one is from 1947 when the Corps awoke one fine October Sunday morning to find one of Jackson’s Battery missing. I can’t recall whether it was Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. If any of you know, please email me. That morning, a very disgruntled Corps, vowing revenge on the culprits, marched to Club Crozet for breakfast. Rumors flew hot and heavy as to the cause of the cannon’s disappearance. The most appealing rumor came from an old cadet who had run the block the night before to attend a party at W&L’s Beta house. During the party, this AWOL cadet overheard, or so he thought, some Minks (small blood thirsty animals that hunt only at night, aka: W&L students) plotting to steal one or more of the cannon. That was enough for the cadets. After breakfast, without a word, they streamed down Letcher Avenue vowing vengeance, and lead by the incomparable Cadet Captain Bercaw ’48B of A Company, they found the missing cannon in the bushes behind Lee Chapel. The cadets proceeded to wreak havoc on the Betas. Considerable damage was done to the premises. Minks were dumped out of their beds and forced, in their pajamas, to haul the purloined cannon up the hill back to its rightful place. I’ll never forget the sight of Cadet Captain Bercaw ’48B and our Brother Rat Wm. (Jap) Dinwiddie (WWII Ranger survivor) “urging” the Minks along up Letcher Avenue. In the subsequent official investigation, it was found that the cannon was stolen VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES by town kids and NOT by the Minks. That fall, it seemed that there was always a collection being taken up in Barracks to pay for some of our misadventures. The irony of this story is that Matthew, Mark, Luke and John lost their freedom and were chained to the VMI Post forever, where they remain today. Incidentally, my umbrella insurance policy is paid up in case of any slander suits.

’50B

Robert White

I was sorry to learn of the death of Erskin Williams. He was a gentleman of long standing, and a credit to VMI and to our class. Erskin was tall, good looking and academically proficient. He played tennis for VMI and was a cheerleader. My guess is that the thing that most of our Brother Rats remember about Erskin is that he thought that the Ratline was too harsh. He made no secret of his feelings about this, even though most of his Brother Rats did not agree with him. All of this did not mean much about the Ratline, but it said a great deal about Erskin and his kind heart. He was a pleasure to be around, and we were a better class and school because of him. I have talked several times with Jim Flippen. He and Nancy live in the Harbor’s Edge Apartments in Norfolk, VA. There are a number of VMI people there: Frank Kirby ’41, Brother Rat of my brother, Warren White ’41; Vince Thomas ’43; Indy Bilisoly, the widow of Frank Bilisoly ’43; our Brother Rat J.W.P. Robertson (Edie); Susan Meredith; and Parker Cross ’53. I also talked to Jane Patton. She is fine, and when we spoke she was expecting a visit from her daughter, Karen Priest. Karen is married to Josh Priest ’80 who is the Brother Rat of my son, Charles White ’80. Jane and I also talked about our regret of the death of Moe Michaux ’48B and how he was such a good friend of Red Patton. Jane also mentioned that Moe had got Red into trouble, but she would say nothing more about that. Knowing the two of them made me wish that I had been there with them. Jane talked about the North Carolina, Asheville vs. VMI basketball game that was played in Lexington and was on na2013-Issue 3

tional television. VMI lost, unfortunately, but the broadcast was most favorable to the Institute with scenes of the school and even units of cadets marching. The announcers did say that VMI was a super institution and talked about it a bit but said it was not for everybody. I spoke with Helen Talbott, and she is fine. She still tries to go to as many athletic events as she can. She still lives on the beautiful farm that she and Bill owned. Carl Galliher and family are all well. Family includes Carl’s wife, Marian, four children, four grandchildren and one greatgrandchild. After many years, Carl closed his business several months ago and is completely retired. At this point and after so many years of hard work, he is giving a lot of thought and energy as to how he will spend all of that free time. My guess is that a number of our Brother Rats have the same problem. I talked to Jack Parrott, and after working so long, he seems to have no problem with what to do next. When we talked, he and Ann had just returned from spending two weeks in Boca Grande, FL. All children are busy and well. I had a letter from Hoge Sutherland. He and Laura went to the Sister Rat lunch in Richmond at the Commonwealth Club. Let me give you a bit of what he had to say: “We had a world-class shootout in Richmond. Those three wise – and lovely – ladies (Sister Rats) decided it was time for a reunion. And did they ever pull one off. Thank you, Mary Virginia Harwood, Ann Witt and Marty Michie, for this special day. They rounded up 23 Brother and Sister Rats, along with four young ones. Incidentally, having these young folks at our reunion adds greatly to these get-togethers. We brought our son, Tyler, and his wife, Lisa, and twin boys (Brendan and Sean) to our 60th Reunion, and it was a high watermark – for them and us. Lisa tells me the boys still go around beating drums and marching. They had a ball. “The hosts, along with Sally Hardwood, Robert Michie, Anne Witt and Luke Witt, greeted us with a unique welcome: “Welcome to old friend for your 66th Reunion.” Sally Hardwood explained this greeting to me this way – while formal reunions are based on our graduation date, we have known each other for four additional years, hence a perfect way to start a party like this.

Sally, whom I’ve known for almost all of her life, has lived and worked in New York for years in the financial area. She was at UVa while our daughter, Allison, was there. It was good to see her again. A delightful young lady. “Robert Michie, Marty and Norwood’s son, is handsome enough to be in the movies. He is very active in VMI affairs, as a member (president, I think) of the Parents Council. His son is a third classman, following at least four generations of Michies to VMI. Luke Witt sat at our table and told some choice stories about Foster’s singing ability – he was in the church choir just to get out of some VMI duties, till they found him out. Rollie Brooke backed him up. I don’t think anyone enjoyed the party more than Luke did. “Anne Witt, a lovely young lady, is, of all things, a minister. Her church is in Kilmamock. “At the end of the luncheon, Brax led us in singing the ‘Doxology.’ Even with three members of the Glee Club at our table (Brax, Rollie and John Taylor), we were off key. Usually, John gets it right, but not this time. Only Ed Smith’s table got it right. (Ed is a Glee Member, also.) I shouldn’t do it, but I love bugging Ed about this – actually, he’s the best of the bunch. The worst, Brax in one room and Bob Lynn in the other, at our 60th Reunion lead us in song. World class off key. The Keydet at our table didn’t even know which song we were singing. Seriously a great tradition. Maybe next time I’ll just hum. “One last word. As we entered the club through the entrance hall, everyone was so glad to see one another that we just stayed there and hugged and talked. They tried to get us to go into the dining area, but no one budged. We just bumped up, laughing and talking. The staff at the club had never seen anything like this before. Finally, they got us to move inside. As we started to move, the club hostess was laughing and told me, ‘This is great; this never happened before. You all really like each other.’ “Was she ever right, or as Tom Harwood so beautifully put it at our 30th Reunion, ‘Why are we here? Let’s place it firmly on the record without apology. We’re here because we care for one another. Call it affection; call it loyalty; call it love. Call it what you may, but inside our veneer of fun 61

CLASS NOTES and frivolity, there’s the pride and love one unable to make the March reunion. Taylor I had a nice chat with Mary Lee May in for another of the class of 1950B.’” reports that Rufus Lazzell has a medical Richmond. She was her usual animated I talked to Marilyn Warren. She sounds problem. self, despite a stomach problem. Occasiongreat and says that she is doing fine. She does I reached Maurice King in Hallieford, VA, ally, she sees Glennie Brown, who is also a miss Ralph, of course, as do we all. He was to wish him a belated birthday greeting. He resident of Cedarfield. one of, if not the best, class agents that we and June are, in his words, “getting along.” I failed to reach Joe Stump in Knoxville, have had. Marilyn is shortly on her way to Maurice inquired about Henry Pitot, while TN, at the end of February, and I have misCalifornia to visit her daughter, Nancy. On noting that he had lost all of his remaining placed his Florida number. In any event, I the way, she will stop in Huntington, WV, roommates – Birt Kidwell, Ralph Wray and hope you had a great birthday, Joe. for a high school reunion. She will be just Bruce Wells. This highlights my admonition Johnny Gray called to report that health several blocks from where she and Ralph to keep in contact with your roomies. problems will prevent him from making first met. the reunion – arthritic hip that Red Brag gave me a new subcannot be repaired and a return scription to Wonderful West Virof his blood problem. We will ginia. It is such a beautiful state. miss Johnny and Pat, who were Red and Ruth have four children regulars at our reunions. and four grandchildren. One son, At the beginning of March, KC, is moving from Charleston to I failed to reach Mrs. Wray in Nashville. He creates commercials Baltimore, MD, with birthday for clients in West Virginia but has wishes – a telephone problem. accepted a position in Nashville Sam Scott called from Holdoing the same thing for a bigger lywood, SC, and we had a nice concern. visit reminiscing about our VMI Remember, coal keeps the lights days. He expressed concern about on. Johnny Gray and is looking forI have known for a long time ward to the reunion. that Moses Ezekiel, class of 1866 Class of 1951: On April 5, 2013, Coach Doug Bartlett, I reached Jackie and Hank and a New Market Cadet, became left, VMI Keydet Club, visited Homer Ambrose in Falls Quisenberry in Enterprise, AL, a world-class sculptor. He did two Church, VA. According to Bartlett, Ambrose is one of a and wished him a happy birthday. while at VMI: “Virginia Mourn- few living alumni who played on the first VMI varsity They will not make the reunion ing Her Dead” and his statue of lacrosse team in 1950. but hoped to make the VMI retireStonewall Jackson. What I did not ment parade in April – they have remember was that he also did the statue of I called Bounce Carstens in Alexandria, a son, Brian Quisenberry ’81, who is an Thomas Jefferson which stands in front of LA, to thank him for remembering me with Institute retiree. the rotunda at the University of Virginia. a “Rumpole Omnibus,” since we are both I called Robert Trumbo in Marshall, As you know, most of my letters and phone fans of John Mortimer’s famous barrister. VA, and wished him a happy birthday. He calls have to do with health and deaths of our I failed to reach Billye Henson in Roanoke, did not plan any special celebration, as he Brother Rats and families, and of course, we VA, with birthday greetings, as the number was snowed in by the major storm that hit want to note and be informed of such things. provided to me proved to be “not a working March 5-6. He mentioned his roommates, But we (your class) want to know about ev- number.” Bill Dawson and Hank Duval. erything else that is important to us. If you I wished Randy Thompson in Fairfax, VA, I wished my Alexandria neighbor, Rav are going to buy a new suit, tell us about it. a happy birthday. He is one of nine remaining Marshall, a happy birthday and was glad to If you want to talk about sex, drop us a line, BR graduates of 1951 in EE. Unfortunately, hear that Sheila has recovered from her leg and tell us what you remember. Randy will not be able to make the reunion surgery. They had a great Christmas in Wildue to his spondylitis. liamsburg and intend to make the reunion. I wished Hap Higby in Bonita Springs, FL, I was unable to reach both Pete Ames and John Ross a happy birthday. He was celebrating with Joe Tom Howard with birthday greetings. strawberry shortcake at lunch. Hap reported In fact, I don’t believe that I have ever been on a call to Willard Hays, who is likewise able to contact Pete. suffering with a back problem. I received a very nice note from Jack I talked with Fred and Rose Anson in Nichols who retired from the Air Force, after This note covers the period of Feb. 12-May Ironton, OH. Fred is slowly recovering from acquiring two master’s degrees, to become 11, 2013, basically in sequential order. five hospitalizations, resulting from knee the school board engineer in Asheville, NC. My first call of this period was to wish Tay- surgery a year ago. Jack is having a very significant medical lor Hay in Frankfort, KY, a happy birthday. I checked on Jane Owen in Wilson, NC, problem which, in his words, “has slowed me He and Joanna are so busy that they will be and she is evidently doing OK. down considerably.” This has limited Jack’s

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CLASS NOTES activities, and he is presently on a waiting list for a retirement community. Joe Stump’s birthday card was returned as “not deliverable” for the second consecutive year. I know the address is correct, so I hope Joe can square away his carrier. In any event, I hope Joe had a great day. Jim Marshall e-mailed that he cannot make the reunion for medical reasons. I have failed to reach Ken Crisp a number of times in February and March. Pat Gray called to tell me that Johnny was hospitalized with terrible pain and then moved to hospice care. Then, on March 15th, Pat called to tell me that we had lost our BR Johnny. I immediately informed the class and subsequently made a contribution to the Institute in remembrance. I know we all shall miss Johnny, who was a mainstay of our class – editor and publisher of our 25th year Bomb; chairman of our 50th Reunion; organizer or attendee at nearly every reunion; and an all-around nice guy. On a personal note, I shall always be thankful for knowing Johnny and shall deeply miss his presence. Therefore, it was with a heavy heart that Marie and I proceeded to Lexington for our March mini-reunion. We had a fairly good turnout: Sam Bass, Jigger and Ursula Baxley, Bounce and Sally Carstens, Marty and George Cohen, Jim and Jean Enochs, Jerry Eggleston, Sid Hannah, Sookie and Nancy Hill, Peggy and Willard Hays, Joyce and Jack Evans, Gibson and Marilyn Gay, Barbara and Jack Lowden, Shirley and Frans Kasteel, Sheila and Rav Marshall, Steve Meader and Jean, Ellen Nelson with her son and daughter-in-law, Skip and Gracelyn Parks, Jeanne and Paul Robinson, Pete Philp, Bill and Helen Sacra, Sam Scott, Marie and Jack Ross, and Eday and Jake Wamsley. Jake Wamsley, with the able and invaluable assistance of Peggy Hays, hosted an enjoyable reunion. The day of arrival was spent in renewing acquaintances and reminiscing in the hospitality room, followed by informal dining. On Friday, March 22, we had a moving memorial service, conducted by the VMI chaplain, at which we recognized our 12 deceased Brother Rats. Then, in the afternoon, many of us, despite the weather, attended the afternoon parade. The Corps was impressive. The day concluded with our class dinner at 2013-Issue 3

which Gen. Green ’67 made an informative presentation of the status of the Institute and its future plans. All too soon on Saturday morning, March 23, we said our goodbyes, with many proceeding directly to a memorial service for Johnny Gray in Richmond. Marie and I were unable to attend, but according to reports from Pete Philp and Bob Nolley, the service was overflowing, and VMI was well represented. When I returned from VMI, I had a phone message from Bob Gerdetz ’52 inquiring about Johnny Gray with whom he roomed. I provided him with the details. Marie wished Carolyn McCallum in Williamsburg a happy birthday and learned she is considering downsizing. Mila Bernich returned my birthday greetings, and we had a nice visit. She is still in the Biloxi, MS, house where we had a minireunion in the early ’90s. I passed on birthday greetings for Richard Chaplin in Tarzana, CA, to his wife, Anita, as he was sleeping. She reports no change in his condition and has her hands full taking care of him and her mother. At the end of March, I reached Rufus Lazzell in Punta Gorda, FL, to wish him a happy birthday and found him to be as active as ever in politics and civic activities. He acknowledged his promise to me – attendance at a future reunion. I failed again in March to make contact with Ken Crisp in Huntington, WV. Pat Holloway reports that she has moved to a smaller house in Williamsburg. Jack Evans called to say how great the mini was and how nice the memorial service for Johnny Gray was. Jim Enochs sent Marie a Nano light to aid her reading, which is much appreciated, as she has early macular degeneration. Marie wished Sally Carstens a happy birthday, and they had a nice visit. I wished Sid Hannah in Cincinnati a happy birthday. He reports visiting Fred Anson on his return trip from the reunion. Sid is doing a great job as our e-mail coordinator. We all owe him, big time. I called Sam Bass and wished him a happy birthday. He has decided not to move and reports he donated four bricks for our deceased BRs. As I explained at the mini, for every $2,500 donated to VMI based on an accumulation of gifts made since July

1, 1998, you qualify for one brick, up to a limit of five, which can be designated for any deceased BR and your own. If you have any questions, check with the VMI Foundation. I had a nice visit with Bill Moore in Fairfax, VA, when I wished him a happy birthday. Bill was with us one year and then graduated from West Point. He has been a consistent and generous supporter of VMI. I left birthday greetings for Fred Taylor in Richmond on his voice mail. I attended a Class Agent-Chapter Leader, Volunteer Leader Conference at VMI on April 19-20. It was very informative as to the status of the Institute, future plans and the participation of the Corps in the Inauguration Parade. We also received a report on the Communications Survey, based on 2,100 alumni responses. It was no surprise to me that nearly three-fourths (73.6%) of the respondents found “the best source of information about VMI” was the Alumni Review. I have often noted and called to your attention what a great magazine the Alumni Association publishes. I left birthday greetings for Glennie Brown on her voice mail. I reached Fred Anson in Ironton, OH, with birthday wishes. He reports that his knee is improving, that he gets around with a cane and that he regained his driving privileges. He enjoyed a visit from his roommate, Sid Hannah, and says that Rose Marie is fine. I tracked down Sherry McVeigh in Palm Coast, FL, to extend birthday greetings. I received an e-mail from Jim Close reporting his return to Alexandria, VA, from Florida and that he and Alice were preparing for a trip to the Netherlands. On his trip north, he stopped in Charlottesville, VA, to see the James T. Hamlin III Medical Reading Room, which is in honor and memory of our own Brother Rat. I failed twice to reach Bob Martin in Las Vegas but did manage to leave birthday greetings for Scott Underwood on his voice mail. At the end of April, I called Bill Dawson in Richmond to wish him a happy birthday, but he was not available. However, I was able to talk to Shirley, who reports that Bill is still very active. As May began, I called Pete Philp in Dallas for information on his brother, John E. Philp, our Brother Rat and Pete’s brother, who was with us for one semester and subsequently 63

CLASS NOTES graduated from Texas A&M. He died on July 18, 1986. I was glad to hear that Pete is well and that he thought the reunion was great. Shortly thereafter, I contacted Maurice King in Hallieford, VA, for some data and learned that Jane is progressing well in her recovery from multiple health problems. Maurice is doing well and hopes to make the next reunion. I wished Mary Ellen Connolly a happy birthday and learned that she is leaving for the West Coast to attend a grandson’s wedding. She is doing well and keeps active with her bridge groups. I reached Skip Parks in Petersburg, VA, with birthday greetings and learned that Gracelyn is scheduled for a pacemaker implant. Skip intended to celebrate that evening with his poker group. Semper Fi – Jack

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James M. Mecredy

Red Austermann wrote me about the sad fate of his ’52 class ring. In May of 1973, while stationed in Munich, Genie and he joined a couple from their organization and drove down to the U.S. Army Chiemsee Rec Area where they went sailing in one of the boats provided by the facility. It was a beautiful day – just perfect for sailing. However, later in the afternoon, a rather strong breeze came up, and one of the ladies had her hat blown overboard. They brought the boat about, and as they approached the floating hat, Red leaned overboard and scooped it up. Unfortunately, as he did so, the ring slipped off of his finger, and he had the frustrating experience of watching it sink down through the crystal clear waters of the lake. For a moment, he thought about diving after it – but common sense told him that he was not a pearl diver, and that part of the lake was deep! Eventually, Genie came up with a replacement. Red also sent me a picture of VMI marching in the presidential parade in 1949. I replied that my memory was two-fold: first, marching two miles and, second, watching President Truman munching a hot dog as we passed in review. He wrote back: “I thoroughly enjoyed your account of seeing 64

President Truman munching on a hot dog. I missed it, but in my mind’s eye, I can see him doing something like this – enjoying a hot dog amidst all that pomp and circumstance, a nice touch to the occasion. Among my memories: After we broke ranks, I was approached by a D.C. cop who stopped me to say that VMI was the best entry in the parade! (And yes, we didn’t need to practice.) Yesterday, the Institute obviously did it again. Thanks to TV coverage, I watched most of the parade, and VMI – the last participant – put on a splendid show. Most gratifying: the two battalions in precise order and that outstanding band playing ‘The Spirit’ and then ‘Oh, Shenandoah.’ That was an excellent final curtain for the parade – ending it with a bang-up show.” Lucy Marshall asked if the cannon shown in my Christmas card was commemorating some person or event. Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System, told me that there is no particular memorial connected with that particular cannon. It is one of six cannons produced for VMI during the Civil War, one of which was lost. This is a “12 pounder.” The four in front of Barracks are “six pounders,” known to us in ’52 as “Mathew, Mark, Luke and John.” Lou Delisio had observed the decorations of some of our classmates in the Hall of Valor and asked me to learn of the requirements. I contacted Col. Gibson and obtained the list of decorations that are eligible for inclusion in the Hall of Valor. It is a fairly long list, so if any of you have decorations that you would like to have included, please contract Col. Gibson to receive a copy of the eligible list. John Moncrief ’53 saw my class notes about Joe Craven and called me to learn what I know of Joe’s condition. I told him that I had not been able to contact Joe since last summer. John and Joe traveled between VMI and Texas a number of times while Keydets, and both of them married girls from Richmond. So, John had gotten to know Joe well and wants to renew contact. I gave him the number I have for the Veterans Home in the Napa Valley and added that I had called several times, leaving messages. Later, I received a call from Bill Ruffin asking for the same information. Bill called the Veterans Home and learned that Joe had been moved to Annex 5 with a new phone number: 707/944-4953. Bill had to identify himself to the front desk to be connected to

Joe. Joe is recovering from amputation of his leg due to a vascular disease and is learning to adapt to prosthesis. He is in good spirits, and you can also reach him at an e-mail: jhyercraven@gmail.com. Bill Ruffin says that Anne has mostly recovered from her extensive operation about 20 months ago. She is a bit slow of gait from multiple hip surgeries and chemotherapy. She does have a bit of hearing loss which is attributed to “you mumble.” (My wife, Lucette, has the same complaint of me.) Also, Bill and I share the same lack of quick recall of names and deafness. Bill and Anne plan to spend a week on a river barge in Holland and Belgium for tulip time in April. I called Clarence Redman on his birthday and found him rearranging the basement for storage to make room for a large comfortable chair which his son was giving him. Apparently, the chair is good for sleeping. Clarence still plays golf and his only complaint is that a 90-year-old member of the foursome can drive a ball further than he can. Other than that, the four are only four strokes apart in skill. He is in the process of writing a mystery novel which he hopes to get published. I told him to let me know when it is published, and I will encourage the rest of you to buy it. I also talked to Alice Magee on her birthday to learn that she is doing well. Dick Valack told me that he had been called back to work. The company has a contract for the Medical Command and needed help. Dick is giving them two weeks a month at Fort Bragg. Dewey Noland has retired in Portland, ME, where he has a boat. Prior to retirement, he and his wife, Fran, lived in Ann Arbor, MI. Fran’s parents have lived in Maine for years, and Dewey visited them a couple of times each year. People in Maine couldn’t believe he would go back to Michigan for the winter, so he retired in Maine and stays there year-around. He loves the outdoors and winter climate with cool summers. I talked to Boyd Guttery and learned that he is very upbeat in dealing with a torn rotator cuff and a broken rib he suffered in a fall just before Christmas. He went to Atlanta to spend Christmas with his family in spite of the injury. He learned about the rib after he returned home. The doctor is using cortisone shots, and both injuries are getting better. Boyd asked for continued prayers for his son, Darryl, who is recovering from a brain VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Brother and Sister Rats in Vienna, Virginia

Class of 1952: Gathering for breakfast on Feb. 7, 2013, in Vienna, VA, are from left, Barbara Navas, Al Navas, Ella Delisio, Carol Clingempeel, Lou Delisio, Sally Birge and Martha Leighty.

tumor. An experimental drug is helping, and the dosage has been reduced by 50%. In April I talked again with Boyd to learn that his son has taken a turn for the worse and is at home to await God’s will for his life. John Roche sent me the following e-mail about a pack horse, with the comment: “Some of you know my connection with this beast; those who don’t are welcome to inquire, preferably over coffee. Reckless was a pack horse during the Korean War, and she carried recoil-less rifles, ammunition and supplies to Marines. Nothing too unusual about that – lots of animals got pressed into doing pack chores in many wars. But this horse did something more … during the battle for a location called Outpost Vegas, this mare made 50 trips up and down the hill. On the way up, she carried ammunition, and on the way down, she carried wounded soldiers. What was so amazing? Well, she made every one of those trips through enemy fire and without anyone leading her.” I asked John about his connection, and here is his answer: “Near the end of the Korean War, I commanded the tank platoon of the 5th Marines anti-tank company of which Reckless was mascot. I don’t like horses, and she knew it. She slipped up behind me one day and bit me on the shoulder, taking me to my knees. We were, thereafter, fast enemies. Later, taking my daughter to ride at the base stables at Camp Pendleton, I discovered her buried there with honors. She is not my favorite horse. John” I talked with Bob Lambert, who told me that his doctor said the best medicine for Parkinson’s is exercise. So, Bob has an ap2013-Issue 3

pointment with a physical therapist to learn the most helpful exercises. I asked Bob to let me know what they are, because if they are good for him, they would be good for any of us who are over 80! I called Bill Minter on his birthday. He appreciated the card I sent and wrote me a note. Zeke Finney has a birthday on the same day, but he was not at home. So, I had to leave a message, wishing him a happy birthday. At our ages, we appreciate birthdays more than ever, especially when we are in good health. Ed Wilbarger reports that both he and his wife are doing well. His only complaint is that there is too much snow to play golf. I called George St. John on his birthday, with no answer, and he called me back an hour later. George reports that he is doing well but cannot do everything that he used to do. (Ain’t that the truth!) I talked to Mac Coker on his birthday. He seemed to be doing well, except for a heart rhythm complaint for which he was going to get treatment to keep the rhythm constant. I was glad to be able to talk to him, because Bob Lambert let me know that Mac Coker had died on April 9. Another death that I did not know about was the death of Tom Gorman who died on May 1. Lou Delisio sent me a picture of our northern Virginia class of ’52 occasional breakfast held on Feb. 7th. (This picture appears with these notes.) Also, I called Don Williamson and Dick Chamberlain with birthday greetings. Don says he is doing well, other than some arthritis which is under control. Dick Chamberlain would be doing well, except he had a bad fall a

while back which put him in the hospital and rehab. His wrist was broken, requiring both a plate and screws to mend. He is back on his feet now. Andy Dickinson stopped in to see Frank Butler at his home in Palm Beach and had a nice visit. Andy writes that he found Frank busy in his office, on his computer, with a blue tooth attached to his ear, busily communicating with the world. Like all of us, he looked a little older than when Andy last saw him over 60 years ago but still upbeat and engaging He has had some health problems over the past few years but seemed determined to stay in the game. Frank had just returned from a safari to Uganda for the purpose of spending some time with the gorillas. Andy asked Frank about the trip, and he sent me the following details. “The safari into Olonana Central Africa was an amazing attempt at a dream. My girlfriend, who was the instigator and developer of this safari, and my valet made up our maneuverable group of only three. From Palm Beach, we traveled for 35 hours to enter an interior sanctuary. To reach the plateau of our camp in the sanctuary village, there were 91 steps to climb up on the escarpment for our Safari Company. Thereon, arrangements had been prearranged to trek into Uganda’s forests. The following morning, for five beautiful hours in my sedan chair, the 12 youthful African bearers shouldered, pushed and pulled through underbrush and overgrowth and around trees hanging with vines, fording two streams, and voila, we lucked out. Suddenly, there was a troop of 11 gorillas commandeered by a silver-back 65

CLASS NOTES [gorilla]. He took but a few minutes to look at our mélange of two-footed things and then huffed and puffed indignantly, before stalking away from such ugly black and white creatures. Fortunately, only one female followed. Those gorillas remaining proceeded to romp and show off and pause to ruminate about us. Eventually, a baby gorilla came within arms-length and stared at me with large, doleful, black, dominating eyes for many minutes. There was no movement on my part. Then, baby gorilla walked toward a small mound half way in the midst of the troop and, turning with a look toward me to be certain my eyes were still focusing on his antics, he thumped his miniature chest in Tarzan manner and spewed forth some happy gurgles of childhood. This was a highlight to be followed by many African sights whilst we were in Olonana and visiting a Masai Village. When an invitation from the chief, with whom only a few words had been translated the day prior, was received the next day to revisit the village, he personally received me and presented some of his warriors. A young lead warrior, to whom my few nods had been made when he had passed through our tent village a few days prior, clasped me, whilst placing his own neck rope of black beads plus a grand shawl which hung to the ground, on my person. My name in that tribe is ‘Oloserian.’ The young warrior is ‘Mustchs.’ Plans are underway for the return next year to Olonana and the Masai warrior, then safari onto the Serengeti. Ramses II, Emperor Hadrian, Alexander the Great, Genghis Khan, Monte Cristo, then … ” Frank thanks for sharing your adventure when you read this in the Alumni Review. Jim Price died on March 9. Jim is survived by his wife, Joanne, two daughters, a granddaughter, a grandson and a greatgranddaughter. Jim had an extensive career. Before VMI, he was in Japan as a provost sergeant and CID operative. In 1952, he was commissioned as a combat engineer officer and demolitions expert in Korea. Later, he was in the oil industry construction business in Turkey, Iran and Saudi Arabia. Afterward, he lived in London as founding director of the London Petroleum Club. Then, he lived in Beirut, Lebanon. Finally, he returned to the U.S.A. as president of Fairfield Energy and later relocated to Greenville, PA, where he died. 66

Both Chuck Haley and Army Wellford called me to announce J.B. Hyatt’s death on Friday, March 13. Chuck is planning a trip to Culpepper from Texas in April. He is making the trip with his grandson and is looking forward to their time together. Scurvy Patton died on Feb. 28. He had been in poor health and in a wheelchair for some time. I sent an e-mail to all of you on my e-mail list and heard back from a number letting me know that Scurvy will be missed. I hope he knows that. Skip Hogan died on March 3. At present, I have no further details about Skip’s death. All of these deaths are included in the Taps section of this issue of the Alumni Review, as well as the obituary of Jim Spellings who died on March 26, one day after his birthday. Jim roomed with Nutz Navas for two years when Jim transferred to Texas Tech University. John Taylor called me to let me know of Jim’s death and sent me an obituary. It would be nice if I could include the entire obituary, but I am not allowed that much space in the class notes. The article stated that his two years at VMI left an indelible mark instilling in him a sense of honor and duty that never left him. John Taylor told me that he and Jim had lunch together every Thursday for 30 years. John is still going to the office as a financial advisor every day, and he is in very good health, going to the gym several times a week. On March 26, The VMI Alumni Association hosted an Old Corps Luncheon for alumni who had passed their 50th Reunions. The class of 1952 had six people there. They were Chris and Sugar Holland, Hutch and Ann Hutchinson, George Hutter, and Jack Lanford. There were about 85 members there from all classes. After lunch, Col. Keith Gibson ’77 gave a PowerPoint overview of the history of VMI from 1839 up to today. He is the executive director of museums at VMI. Following that, there was a briefing about all of the construction that has taken place in connection with Gen. Peay’s ’62 “Vision 2039” and a tour of the three Barracks that now stand at VMI. To close the program, they were treated to a performance by the VMI Bagpipers in J.M. Hall. If you haven’t been to VMI in the past 10 or 15 years, you would hardly recognize the place, so many changes have occurred. Chris Holland sent me a summary of a recent trip to VMI. He and Sugar attended

a women’s water polo match and the first Old Corp Luncheon. The VMI team lost three and won one. The one they won received wild cheering from the Corps and Gen. Peay. Rob Gerdetz called to let me know that he is moving in with his daughter. His new address is: 7500 St. Phillip, Austin, TX 78575. He is alone, because his wife, Mary, is in a nursing home. Rob has a grandson at VMI and another grandson at college in Florida. Rob is very enthusiastic about the many positive changes that Gen. Peay is making for VMI. Walt Ames called to wish me a “Happy Easter” and tell me that he is going to the 60th wedding anniversary for Dick and Mary Catherine Valack. Walt started using a walker in February to get around, because he was getting very unsteady on his feet. Walt had two serious falls in February and is slowly recovering. I called George Hutter to wish him “Happy Birthday.” Both George and his wife are staying healthy. They went on the VMI sailing ship cruise and thoroughly enjoyed the trip. This ship has a passenger capacity of over 200, and the passengers do not have to help man the sails, because all of the sails are computer controlled. Bill Baber reports that he and Margaret are both doing well, and he enjoyed his birthday. He did tell me he had hip surgery last fall with a minimum of difficulty. He spent one night in the hospital and was able to walk in to dinner the next day. So, that is almost (but not quite) as good as having no problem in the first place. The time in May has arrived for me to turn in class notes which you will see in August. My last entry is from Walt Ames who called me this morning to get the current phone number for Root Hopkins (302/343-9414). Walt is still recovering from the two serious falls in February. He can now walk short distances, and that is enough for him to get in the car and drive, but he needs a lighterweight walker so he can do things like go to the store. Walt also told me that he is taking a class to become more conversant with the computer. This class may enable him to write e-mails and letters, so we can hear from him more often. I trust all of you are enjoying the summer weather. Stay in touch with each other and with me. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES DVDs provided by John Lund and their name tags. This allowed all those who had not been back in a long time to be able to find out who they were talking to at our gatherings. The Monday night dinner for all of the older classes holding their reunion was Guess what? The 60th has now come and hosted by the Alumni Association at Margone – and based on all the reports that I shall Hall in the new Center for Leadership have heard from those who attended, it was and Ethics. It was a very nice and packed a great reunion. In fact, some have said that affair. Tuesday started off with a briefing it was the best ever. We did have very good for all reunion classes in the Gillis Theater attendance. Of the 92 BRs still living, by Lt. Col. Dale Brown, covering the we had 43 at the reunion, and counting construction and remodeling thus far family and guests, we came up with under Gen. Peay’s ’62 Vision 2039. a total of 97. The BRs who came the It was an excellent presentation, with farthest were, from California, Bill and slides showing inside and outside of Joan Hinman and Dabney Coleman the new and improved facilities at the and family. There will be additional Institute. There is no way that you reunion pictures in the next issue of the could have seen or learned this much Alumni Review, as taken by John Lund. on a walking tour of the Post. The ’53s Will Allison called a few days before adjourned for a very nice salad and the reunion to say that there was a sandwich lunch at Moody Hall. From death in his wife’s family, they had to there, we proceeded to Memorial Garleave for Sweden and had to cancel. dens below the parapet for our class Jim Morris called a day before the memorial service for departed Brother reunion and had to cancel due to some Rats – 92 of them (of those completing Class of 1953: Art Moncrief with Parker Cross on medical problems, as did Luke Witt. I the Rat year). The service and memotop of the sentinel box, leading the class Old Yell. also heard from other BRs who were rial booklet was put together by Ted not able to come. Mariani. Ted and Parker Cross read We started off the reunion with a social he visited each table, which was appreciated the names of our Brother Rats in groups of gathering at our home on Sunday afternoon, by all BRs. 10, and Reed Johnson sounded a bell after which was well attended … there were 65 Monday was the regular start of the re- each name. Our BR, the Rev. Bob Andrews, packed into our house for over two hours. union, and BRs registered at the Holiday Episcopal rector from Colorado, presented Then, we adjourned to Café Michel in Lex- Inn hospitality room, picked up schedules, a service about the togetherness of Brother Rats, the Institute in our lives and the passing of those 92 from our ranks. The service was completed with Col. John Brodie, VMI’s music and band director, playing “Taps” from the top of the parapet, along with Don Matheson assisting on his trombone. We had six of the wives of our departed Brother Rats at this service, who were very pleased with it: Ann Goddard, Ann Artz, Bobbie Bayliss, Lucy Moise, Faye Andrews and Peggy Skinner (who said her reunion at JMU was at same time, but she would have much more fun at VMI). On Tuesday night, we held our class banquet at the Lexington Golf and Country Club for dinner and with the VMI Commanders playing music. There were 92 BRs and family at the dinner with seven VMI guests and the band for a total of 110. Parker Cross introduced all the guests, made a few comments to the class about our reunion and Class of 1953: Art Moncrief observing the class of ’53 before the Old Yell. awarded me a gift certificate for my services

’53

William C. Noell Jr.

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ington, where we had 67 for dinner. The report from all was that it was an excellent dinner and gathering. The nice part was that the restaurant is normally closed on Sundays. However, Michel agreed to open it for our reunion dinner, allowing us to sit throughout the very nice main dining room and not in the banquet room. The service was excellent, and Michel came out from the kitchen to speak to us after all had been served, which he normally does when we are there. Then,

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1953: The 60th Reunion flag held by Ted Mariani for the Old Yell from atop the sentinel box.

as the class agent for the past 26 years. Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum Systems executive director, gave a very good presentation with slides on past cadet life and the Institute, entitled “Attention to Detail.” The VMI Commanders played at the end of the evening, and some of us BRS, who are still young at heart, danced, while most others departed for the motel. I finished the evening with a nice fast dance with Ann Goddard. Earlier this year, I had sent out an e-mail to the BR e-mail list asking if the class was ready for a change of blood in the class agent task, and if anyone was interested, to let Parker know before the reunion. Well, it seems that I am still your class agent. I do appreciate all the good comments you have given me over the years and at the reunion. So, I guess we are stuck with each other for some more years.

Class of 1953: Chris and Sugar Holland, left, with Judy and Bill Noell at the Big South Basketball Tournament Keydet Club gathering before the game.

In the photos accompanying these notes, you will see the photo of our reunion flag which welcomed all to our Sunday gathering. It was carried at our reunion parade and was held on top of the sentinel box during our Old Yell celebration. The flag was originally made by roommate Pete Cox for the 35th Reunion and then given to me to hold. I revised it for the 50th and then added an additional band for our 60th. I had long ago forgotten the meaning of the Latin phrase on the flag, but before the reunion, Warren Koontz’s grandson, Will, came up with the translation: “Perhaps one day it will help to have remembered even these things.” Now, Parker came up with a briefer translation and commented that his is close to it “but a shade different in attitude.” Parker also noted the flag at the Tuesday evening class dinner. As for our “Old Yell,” it was once again

led by our head cheerleader, Art Moncrief, who put his oxygen and wheelchair aside to climb to the top of the sentinel box with the help of Parker and Ted. They, of course, also climbed to the top for the Old Yell celebration. Susan Moncrief said that Art was determined to make it back for the 60th, take part in the parade and the Old Yell celebration, which he certainly did with gusto. We had house guests for the reunion once again – Walt and Emily Sanders and Bob Cheatham. Regretfully, Bebe could not be with us this time, as she had been planning last summer. As you know, Bob lost Bebe in March; the cancer she had been fighting for several years was out of remission and finally took its toll. She fought a long hard battle and seemed to always keep her good spirits. Bebe passed away when we were en route to Myrtle Beach for the Big South basketball

Class of 1953: Parker Cross and Rev. Bob Andrews, standing at center, with Ted Mariani, standing to the right, during the ’53 Brother Rat memorial service.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

Class of 1955: Those who attended their 60th Reunion are listed in alphabetical order as follows: Robert Andrews, William Atwill, Eustace Bellinger Jr., Edgar Brown Jr., Robert Cheatham, Dabney Coleman, Parker Cross Jr., Terry Davis Jr., James Eads, John Evans Jr., John Flannagan, Paul Fortin, John Gilbert, Wesley Gray Jr., Fred Hauser Jr., Wilbur Hinman III, Reed Johnson, Harry Johnston II, Norris Kantor, Warren Koontz Jr., John Lisella, John Lund, Franklin Maddux, Theodore Mariani, Donald Matheson, Stuart McCloskey Jr., Harold McClung, James Meek, Robert Miller, Arthur Moncrief, Floyd Moore, James Morris Jr., William Noell Jr., Kenneth Perry, Walter Sanders III, Frank Spencer Jr., James Sutherland, John Townes III, Jack Trigg Jr., William Vaughn, Charles Williams, John Wilson, Clement Woodward and Frank Wootton Jr.

CLASS NOTES

60th Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April 22-23, 2013

Class of 1953

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CLASS NOTES tournament, so we missed the services in South Carolina. Parker was able to attend the burial in Salem on that Saturday, but we did not make it back. Only a few days after the reunion, Jack Townes called to say that his roommate, Tom Whitesel, had just died in Springfield. I had heard from Jack about a week before the reunion, saying that Tom had told him he would not be able to make the 60th, since he now had to go back in for some new cancer treatment at the time of the reunion and would not be up to making the trip. Tom’s funeral services will not be held for a couple of months, since he is going to be buried at the Arlington National Cemetery. We have now reached that half-way point – 93 deceased BRs and 92 accounted for, plus two who have not been in contact with the class or the Institute for many years. An e-mail from Norman George said he regretfully could not attend the reunion, as his wife had just recently had both hips replaced. He said this has been a very painful process, and he does not expect her to be “right” for about six weeks. A note from Landora Schermerhorn said that she was very sorry to have to miss the reunion, but each April her daughters come from Pennsylvania and Minnesota to spend time with her in Atlanta. She said she really regretted missing the memorial service. A letter from Bill Nelson said that he and Randi had planned to attend the 60th and had all travel reserved, but as time approached, they found that they would be unable to attend. They were very sorry that they could not attend. If you recall some past e-mails from me, it was Bill Nelson who, with me, greased the railroad tracks behind Barracks with butter one night and brought some excitement to the chemistry lab, as we hung out the windows and watched. I got the idea from my father, ’924. They did it when girls were on the train for hops, while we only had freight. However, if you read the class notes of ’42 in the issue before last, Charlie Miller ’42 greased the tracks with motor oil brought in by Pete’s Taxi. The task also was accomplished by the class of ’59. As for Charlie Miller, who is 92 years of age and Warren Koontz’s doubles tennis partner on Wednesdays in Richmond, he recently eloped and was remarried. He talks about this in the ’42 class notes of this Alumni Review and the last issue. Judy and I did attend all the home basket70

ball games this year, sitting on the second row behind the coaches, and were able to take some of our grandkids to Saturday games … no school night games were allowed. As noted earlier, Judy and I did attend the Big South Basketball Tournament in Myrtle Beach, SC, the first week of March. Although the Running Roos did not get to the finals, we did enjoy the week and festivities at the tournament site. It started off with a pre-game/night Keydet Club gathering of old players, coaches and VMI supporters at the hotel – even the current football coaches were there for the tournament. We spent some enjoyable time with Sugar and Chris Holland ’52. Since they live there, they know their way around, which helped us a great deal. It was not the warmest there, which naturally improved after we left, but we had to leave Lexington a day earlier for the tournament than planned, due to predicted snow. The snow wound up being 12 inches, and so it was nice to miss. We have also enjoyed having an “adopted” Rat (his name is Jack) this year at the house on Sundays when we were in town – it has been an enjoyable experience, once again. Jack’s family arrived the Friday after the reunion to stay with us and observe him at spring football scrimmage. Our reunion guests left on Wednesday, but then we went to Richmond on Thursday night to take Judy to the Barry Manilow concert for my birthday (?). After completing that hectic week, we left for Tennessee to work on extending our lake house deck so we can add a screen porch – for that project, I am doing the flooring and staining. Then, back to Lexington to attend our granddaughter’s weekend dance recital. So, at 82, it does not look like I get to slow down in something called “retirement.” Institute Trivia: If you recall our Institute days, we had to purchase all of our uniforms. They then belonged to us, and we had to replace them when they got too worn to be presentable, according to the tack officers, etc. And thus, when we graduated, we took the uniforms with us, unless we were able to sell them to some underclassmen as “slimies.” Of course, we wore our “slimies” under overcoats and where we would not be checked ... but not uptown. Whereas, the cadets at the Institute now rent their uniforms and can have them replaced when worn out, under certain conditions, of course.

Therefore, they do not have them as their own anymore when they leave the Institute. As you recall, we had to be fitted in the tailor shop for our uniforms, then had to wait until they were made for us – thus wearing those baggy gray coveralls until the uniforms were ready. Today, the cadets just find uniforms off the shelf that supposedly fit. However, I have noted many times, especially in church, that some cadets’ pants have been very baggy in the rear, especially on the heavier cadets. Also, it is no longer a requirement to wear the coatee and white gloves uptown to church or the blouse uptown on other times. If you are in summer dyke at the Institute, you can now leave the Post for town, church or whatever in the short-sleeve white shirt and white ducks, which, by the way, now have belt loops and a leather black belt. So, as you can see, the Corps has gotten kind of lax in the more formal uniform dress for show uptown.

’54

Bill Turner

“To continue to make the same mistakes and expect different results is the definition of insanity.” Albert Einstein Results are in on the 2012 VMI fund drive. Our class didn’t do too badly. Among VMI classes graduating during the past decade, the class of ’54 was number two in total giving. Our class ranked fifth in percentage of alumni participation. Of 114 “solicitable alumni,” 70 contributed. This means that 61.4 percent of the class participated. (In addition, seven widows contributed.) This amounts to a slight increase in class participation over previous years, but the improvement is miniscule or not statistically significant. In my opinion, it is not so much how much we contribute; but how many of us are involved in giving something back to a school to which we owe so much. Although the Institute might not agree, I would rather see 90 percent participation contributing $250,000.00 than 45 percent giving $500,000.00, particularly when most of the money contributed is done by a relatively small handful of contributors. While the latter may speak to the financial generosity of a class, the former speaks to such important intangibles as camaraderie, to the VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES brotherhood of a few good enjoying your beautiful wife a men, to the famed VMI “Spirwhile longer. it.” And that’s what makes us “Bud” Bare writes that he and a little different from so many his wife are in the process of movother colleges and universities. ing into the “Old Folks Home,” You may agree or disagree. euphemistically called a retire“To know how to grow old ment community. He says their is the master-work of wisdom current home is under contract, and one of the most difficult and they are scheduled to move chapters in the great art of lovby the first of December. “There ing.” – Henri Amiel are no health problems, and we “Always forgive your enare still playing tennis, Jacque and emies. Nothing annoys them golf.” (Bud, what is a “Jacque?”) so much.” – Oscar Wilde Bud concludes by saying he and Larry McGovern’s daughter, his wife are now set for the next Molly, wrote me a lovely and stage of their lives. Sounds that informative note recently, adway, Bud. Go for it, and rememvising me that her dad had died ber the words of the poet: “Grow in late 2011, this after I had old along with me, the best is yet Class of 1954: Johnny Mapp, “The Norfolk Flyer,” and sent a birthday card to Larry George Ramer, “The Rock of the Line,” with Coach John to be, the best of life for which the not knowing that he had died. McKenna, center, fall 1953. first was made.” Make it happen. I had never been informed. To “What we do for ourselves dies the contrary, the Institute had with us. What we do for others only recently sent me a box of birthday and however, when he had to leave to retrieve remains immortal.” (Anon.) Christmas cards together with mailing lists his infant granddaughters. Actually, I envy Recently I’ve been thinking about three showing clearly that Dr. McGovern was still him. Always wanted some granddaughters. people who were very important in my life. alive. Somewhat awkward, of course, but if Never happened. Lost two, though – twins, All three were Brother Rats: Jim Bramlet, the VMI isn’t informed about the death of stillborn at five months. Two little redheads. Joe Carney and John Benson. I’d like to its graduates, it’s hard for the class agents A tragedy. Maybe I can rent Bill’s two for take a few minutes of your time to say a little not to make such mistakes. Fortunately, this the weekend. something about them. As I say, they were Had a nice telecon with Paul Kuhne. Paul very special to me. doesn’t happen very often. I remember Larry as a tall, handsome, told me he had a pacemaker implant a couple Jim Bramlet and I used to party a lot. Jim somewhat quiet cadet, bright and with a of weeks ago. I told him to join the club. He liked to party. Occasionally he would accompretty good sense of humor. I thought when was understandably affected by the experi- pany me when I’d go to my home in Newport I first met him at the Institute that he showed ence, a little uneasy about having this foreign News, VA, for a few days. As was generally considerable promise. He didn’t disappoint. object inserted in his body. Didn’t like it. the case, when we’d do that, my late sister, Among other things, he helped raise a beauti- Understand perfectly. Been there and done who loved VMI with a passion, would get that. Shake it off, Paul. Be glad you have him a date. Usually, the young ladies were ful daughter. Had lunch with Bill Schubmehl today. something that will allow you to continue very happy with the decision. Jim was fun. Always fun. Unfortunately, Bill And he had an engaging smile that wasn’t at the top of his game, would almost immediately lull suffering bronchitis or some such young ladies into a false sense of malady. He and Becca had just gotsecurity. By the time they learned ten home from France. Saw Paris differently, it was too late. (one of my favorite places). I think One of the last times I saw Jim it was Oscar Wilde who said “All was in Vietnam. At the time I was good Americans when they die go hunkered down in my “hooch,” to Paris.” I think it’s the mademoifeeling sorry for my equally sorry selles, a certain je ne se quoi. Ah, self, when Jim suddenly appeared. to sit on the Champs, savoring an I was deep in the Delta and could aperitif and watching the Parisian hardly believe it. But there he was, girls promenade. Poetry in moan apparition in combat fatigues, tion. Where was I? Oh, we were grinin’ from ear to ear. I said, “Jim, talking about Schubs. Anyway, what the h--- are you doing here?” Class of 1954: Pat Morgan and Bob Modjeski on board nice to spend some time with He just laughed and said something the sailing ship Star Clipper in March 2013. him. Our meeting was cut short, to the effect that the Army thought 2013-Issue 3

CLASS NOTES I had “mishandled” (actually, Jim used a much more colorful term) the war enough, and he had been sent to try to straighten out both me and the war. When I last saw Jim, he was heading for the local dirt air strip to try and hitch a ride to Bac Lieu, Mytho, Dak To or wherever. The only things he had in his hands were an M2 carbine, a bottle of Jack Daniels Black Label and a couple of books. His parting words were, “See ya’ in a year, ‘Wild Bill.’ Stay loose, and keep your head down.” Jim served two tours in ’Nam and won the Silver Star for conspicuous bravery. Joe Carney was my roommate for my final two years at the Institute. I could not have done better. Joe also knew how to have fun. (Somehow, I seemed to attract people like that.) He, too, had a wonderful smile and was quite popular with the fair sex. As you may recall, he had a great voice and sang with the Commanders, a talented group of cadet musicians who actually played stuff you could recognize and could appreciate, like “hang-on” dance music. I’ve often wondered why parents of today’s generation sweat so much about their children getting overly heated on the dance floor. Heck, they stay so far away from each other, there seems little chance of their getting anything together. Joe was always available if I had unexpected female guests from out of town, like Bluefield or Huntington, or maybe from Sweetbriar or Hollins. If I were outnumbered, Joe would drop whatever he was doing, especially studying, and rise to the occasion. If the young ladies had brought a car along, we’d usually head for such exotic places as Stevesville or the iconic Buffalo Creek Dance Hall and Club. (I remember one summer’s eve being there with Larry Dougherty, a couple of “thirds” and several Lexington High coeds. It was a very good evening.) When Joe left the Institute, he got involved in thoroughbred horse racing, did quite well and had a string of tracks from New Hampshire to Key West. When I’d go to Boston (Joe was from Lawrence, MA), Joe would meet me with tickets to the Red Sox games at Fenway. He would also entertain me royally at one of his tracks, Rockingham Park. He was the perfect host. Never gave me a tip on a winner, though; said he never played the ponies – too unpredictable. The last time I saw Joe was at the Jefferson 72

Hotel in Richmond. My wife, Sonja, and I had dinner with Joe and Joy, his lovely wife. Little did I realize that would be the last time I’d see him alive. Never got to tell him how much he meant to me. John Benson was pretty extraordinary. We both came from blue collar roots. We never had much money, but we had plans for the future. We had dreams. We knew if we worked hard, really applied ourselves, we could rise above our modest beginnings. Like Joe Carney, John was another of my “Go To” guys when I needed help with visiting young ladies. If one wasn’t available, the other was. It really was a “win-win” matrix of self-discovery and personal actualization. I mean, even if you “lost,” you “won.” Know what I’m sayin’? After John graduated from the VMI, he married Darja, the sister of a former BR, Prince Rupert “Tex” Ricker. They had a couple of children. John went to law school and dropped dead while shaving one morning. He was in his early thirties. They are all gone now … Jim, Joe and John. And I miss them more than words can tell. But in a real sense, in a much larger sense, they are not gone. Not really. As a preface to a book I’m now writing, I wrote: “In a real sense, there is no death, only life extending itself.” I’m not quite sure how those remarks will be interpreted, but what I do know is this: These three guys will be a part of me – a very special part of me – as long as I draw breath. I try not to be too bitter that they were taken all too soon. Rather, I try to be grateful that they were in my life for a time, for a few precious, unforgettable moments in time, forever frozen in time. Like the song done so well by Celtic Woman, when I’m down and feel what’s the use, they “lift me up,” lift me up to a place higher than I thought I’d ever go. And for a brief few, shining moments, I’m “there” again, with Jim, Joe and John. I love and miss you guys. You were a part of something that I will never know again. Thank you. Thank you for who you were, who you are and who you will ever be. “Omnia Vincit Amor.” Ovid I learned yesterday that we lost another good man. Bill Wood died on Feb. 27th after a heroic yet losing battle with a long endured illness. It made me very sad. Bill was a special breed, the quintessential ‘Virginia Gentleman.” I don’t believe I ever heard him

say an unkind word against anyone. He was one of the kindest men I ever knew – except on the golf course. In match play, Bill always went for the jugular. However, he went about the task with such style and grace – always with a smile – that you almost enjoyed it. I attended Bill’s memorial service today. Very sad. Very moving. Several spoke, including our VMI superintendent emeritus, John Knapp, who reminisced about some of the experiences he shared with his old roommate. John did this with humor and pathos. It was extremely well done. But the most telling and touching moment came, I believe, when Bill’s only son, a VMI grad, eulogized his father. It was a beautiful tribute. All of us should have had such a relationship with our fathers. At the end of the service something happened which I thought was very special. VMI alumni in attendance were invited to meet at the front of the sanctuary to sing the VMI “Doxology.” They did, and the result was impressive. Bill, who loved to sing, would have approved. We’ll miss Bill Wood; I say that because they’re just not making many men like him anymore. I read recently that when we lose someone like Bill we shouldn’t cry because he’s gone; we should smile because we had him. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill’s widow, Dee, and Bill’s children at such a time. I guess that’s it for another time. Take care. God bless. I’ll see you around the campus.

’55

Read Hanmer

It is my sad duty to report two more losses in the 1955 family. Gayle McCants and Evie Sutherland have left us. We will remember them fondly. I recently heard an interesting theory about how we view the passage of time: when you are 10 years old, a year represents one tenth of your entire existence. Hence, things that took place a year ago seem quite distant, and time seems to drag. (When will I be old enough to drive? When will I be able to date pretty girls?) When you are 80 years old (as we all are, give or take a few months), one year represents only one eightieth of your VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES entire experience, and time seems fleeting in retrospect. That may explain why the deadline for submission of class notes comes around so quickly! Anyway, here goes on the next edition. Thanks to all who responded to my call for input. After all, you are the folks who make these class notes possible. The items below are in no particular order. Ray Collins checked in with the following note: “We are well, enjoying the warm, flowery Augusta spring. We are looking forward to a visit with grandchildren (four girls) in New York City, to see some sights, the ballet and ‘Pippin.’” Frank Moltz responded to my recent call for updates with the following: “We spent the Christmas holiday at home with our son, Brick, and his family. Brick is dean of academics at the Brooks School in North Andover, MA, and Laura teaches history at a private school in Manchester, NH. Their oldest son is at the University of Vermont, and his brother is at NYU and is scheduled to spend next year at the NYU campus in Argentina. We spent January and February shoveling snow and, in March, went to Round Rock, TX, to be with our daughter, Mercia. Mercia is an art teacher at an elementary school in Round Rock with 500+ students. She has been at this for almost 15 years. Her son, Aaron, and his wife, Sarah, now live in Honolulu, and last May, Sarah gave birth to our first great-grandchild, Ale’a. Aaron graduated from the University of Massachusetts and is a department manager with Target. Sarah has her master’s from George Washington and is with her mother’s real estate firm. Mercia’s identical twin girls live in Austin and San Antonio.

Kelsey graduated from Texas State with a degree in industrial engineering and works for Tesoro Petroleum. Natalie graduated from the same school with a degree in communications, which described her perfectly. She directs the marketing and hiring efforts of a commercial insurance firm in Austin. As a boastful grandfather, I must say those young women are absolutely gorgeous! As you can tell, I am especially proud of our entire family. “We had three weeks of perfect Austin weather; coldest day 70 and warmest 81. It rained one night only. We returned to Williamsport and were greeted by a snowstorm the following day, just to bring us back to reality. Our plans for the near future include all of the family arriving at Brick’s house in North Andover for a week and then going north to my sister, Mandy’s, oceanfront house on Ratcliff Island, ME, which is located just southeast of Rockland, ME. These days, Alice and I are busy cleaning up the yard and gardens and planting perennials to fill in for those that didn’t survive the winter. After 30 years in this house, I would expect the work load would lessen but no such luck. We have 120 feet of hemlock hedge which is on its last legs. So, with the help of a neighbor’s grandson, we are in the process of removal and replanting with rhododendrons. That should keep me out of trouble this summer. Alice’s overall health is very good with the exception of memory. She has been diagnosed with mild dementia, but she worries about the eventual onset of Alzheimer’s. So far, my health has been excellent with the exception of some discomfort with bursitis in my hip. I manage

to keep busy cooking, gardening, attempting to build a model railroad and messing about with acrylics when time allows. All in all, it’s a full life with an absolutely wonderful spouse and a great church. We are truly blessed!” Walt and Loli Reed reported in: “We spend a lot of time on the television, but we are well aware of God’s power over this world and the next. Recently, we discovered a most inspiring book written by a neurosurgeon named Eben Alexander who lives and practices in Lynchburg, VA. If you’ve not read it, we recommend that you do. The title is Proof of Heaven. ’Nuff said.” I recently sent out a message containing some observations about engineers (e.g., to the optimist, the glass is half-full, to the pessimist, the glass is half-empty, to the engineer, the glass is twice as big as it needs to be. Or what is the difference between mechanical engineers and civil engineers? Mechanical engineers build weapons. Civil engineers build targets.) Bill Shea wrote: “I recall from my classes with Col. Marr his guidance about another time consuming class subject – ‘Us engineers don’t need no English.’ Unless, of course, I go on the ‘Jeopardy’ show. I think my agonizing classes in third class English will never bear any fruit. My sons, Steve ’83 and Pete ’92, have not revealed anything that would cause me to race to the library to seek a change to my opinion that, in fact, ‘Us engineers really don’t need no English’ – third class, that is. Fact is that third class economics and English are tied for last place, other than they were needed to earn a diploma from the Institute.” Bill, it’s amazing what skills

Class of 1955: Sam Marshall’s grandsons, Kevin and Nathan Marshall, at the end of their Rat year.

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 1955: Air Force cadets at Lockbourne Air Force Base, summer 1954. From left were, Irv McClelland, Jimmy Atkinson, Bill Nolley, Bill Ellis, Will Washington, Al Shattuck, Frank Walter, Randy O’Neill and Charlie Luck.

one needs to develop to become class agent, including English usage. Since I majored in physics and did graduate work in aerospace engineering, I often find myself challenged when writing in English. Sam Marshall sent pictures of his two youngest grandsons, along with the following note: “Kevin and Nathan Marshall ’16 just finished their Rat year. As the photo shows, they were ‘recruited’ into VMI at an early age. Based on Nathan’s NROTC scholarship and first semester GPA of 4.0 in mechanical engineering, he was offered an appointment to the Naval Academy, and so he finished his Rat and only year at VMI with some regret. Kevin is majoring in economics and stays on at VMI. He is learning the bagpipes. Bob Bancroft visited them in April and gave a good report of their overall demeanor, as well as their appetites; they also had dinner with Betsy Brittigan, who lives at the Kendal retirement home. She has a lot of VMI friends there. Although Kevin and Nathan grew up in Idaho, they have spent time every summer here in White Stone enjoying water activities; they learned how to sail and to clean my fish. Their senior year in high school was capped by achievement of Eagle Scout for both. So, they were well prepared for challenges at VMI. I had a nice phone conversation with Jerry Bourke in May. He had a visit to his sisters in Florida, having been a homebody for years with Julie’s terminal illness. He can’t drive at this time but has most commercial activity within a five-minute walk 74

of his home, including a health club – so important to those of us of the class of ’55. He was in good spirits and stays in touch with Nick Goetzinger and John Hansen. Also in May, we had a nice visit from Peggy and Dick Trumbo ’54. The Trumbos have a condo on Cobbs Creek only 30 minutes south of White Stone. He still suffers from a fall he took a year or so ago, but he and Peggy still get to their other place west of Winchester.” Bob Bowden reported on an 80th birthday party for Norm Harris. “(The party was given) by JoAnna and the children. We had a good visit with Lois and Terrell Smith who live in Bedford. Carolyn and Jimmy Robertson were there as well as Mich Pettyjohn, so a good time was had by all. Dick Stokes, who was at VMI with us for a short time, was there as well. It is difficult to believe that we are approaching 80, but then Tom Tait, Ronnie Albrecht and I were the youngest people at the (recent) Old Corps Luncheon!” In another e-mail, Bob noted that “Jane and I ventured over the mountain to see the ‘new’ VMI. It’s interesting to note that the Corps is now at about 1,700 cadets (weren’t we at something like 900?). All the new developments give the cadets some neat places to go on the Post. Tom and Margaret Tait, Bill Davidson, Ron Albrecht, Jane and I represented ’55 during a tour of the Barracks.” Pete Haake sends “Greetings from the still wintery north. Since the last class notes, I have been through Lexington on the way

south and on the way back. Cathy and I were in Florida at Bob and Crellin Byrd’s ’63 for a few days and then to Bonita Beach for a week in early March. It was a welcome break from a cold winter, but it did not change here while we were gone. We had cold rain and icing today (April 11). I was reminded recently that a year ago we were in the 80s in March; no such luck this year. We followed VMI basketball down to the last and really thought they had a chance at the NCAA’s, but it wasn’t to be. Just like Syracuse, couldn’t get past the Final Four (of the Big South Tournament). It was a good ride, though. We are looking for spring. Our best to all – Pete.” “Grouse, fuss and moan” says Tom Williamson. “We have a good size dogwood tree in the backyard that is full of white blooms. In the late afternoon when the sun is on it, it fills the picture window and is so bright I am blinded and cannot see the TV. Now that is something to grouse, fuss and moan about. The tree is not as full as it has been in the past, probably because of the recent years of drought. Several days ago, the blooms were yellow and puny looking, then, as Kaye pointed out, a rain washed the pollen off, and the white was restored. Some of our azaleas are full, some are not, but The Augusta National will be colorful this year. Baseball has started, and the Braves (go Braves) won Monday. I played better golf Monday than I had been this year and will probably play in shorts today. I have a chance to go to the Master’s on Thursday. Easter reminded us of the resurrection and the promise of a new life in Jesus. Life is good. Continue to pray for recovery of those in discomfort. Happy Spring – Tom.” Speaking of baseball, Tom Tait notes that “I have been a Cincinnati Reds fan since 1939 when I saw my first major league baseball game at the Polo Grounds in New York City. The Giants won the game, but I became a Reds fan for life. I even remember who played for the Reds in that game. The Reds won the pennant and lost to the Yankees in the World Series. They played in the Series again in 1940 and beat the Tigers. I have high hopes for them this year.” My favorite team, the Washington Nationals, was mediocre in April but seems to have righted itself in early May and is in second place in the NL East. I’m hoping for a repeat of last year, when the Nats won the NL East pennant. By VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES the time this column is published in August, the picture will be clearer. Nanalou Sauder wrote, “I read the fine article in the Institute Report about the Corps’ Inaugural Parade appearance. I watched the whole parade, and to my experienced eye (lots of Friday afternoons on Post), the Corps was by far the best marching unit in it, even though they were the last unit, had been standing around being cold for hours and had a hard time seeing because of the glaring lights. My hat is off to the representatives of VMI. Additionally, I was pleased that Mary Lanford Price wrote such a great article. She is the daughter of Jack Lanford ’52, one of my best government students in high school and a really accomplished writer.” It was nice to hear from Rosemary Coleman, who wrote, “I have just received your VMI ’55 class notes and read every word! (Hanmer’s note: the February 2013 notes) So nice of you to mention my Christmas card and photos – thank you. I am having a sentimental day, as it is Lamar’s birthday, and I am warmed by the VMI connections: your including me in the class correspondence and a Valentine signed by Buddy Bryan ’71 of the VMI Foundation. You are all true gentlemen. (Also, I am gazing at Lamar’s VMI diploma which hangs over the computer in the den – so impressive with a real ribbon!) “I like the retirement series (in the Alumni Review) and am very impressed with the continued good works of the classmates. Lamar also continued his volunteer work at the veterans’ hospital and at church. There is a plaque in his honor in the church kitchen where he presided over the remodeling. You can rest assured that it has all the most hightech appliances and is greatly appreciated by all!” Thank you, Rosemary, for the update. A quick note from Sam Hill’s “secretary,” (Sue): “We are excited about our grandson, Bruce Harcus,’ wedding in June in New Orleans. Even though he did not go to VMI, he and his fiancée, Sarah Montz, both went to W&L (best we could do). I hope Sam Segar tells you that his granddaughter, Katharine Hastings, has been accepted at VCU for med school. Since we watched her grow up, we are proud also. If anything else comes to mind, I’ll let you know.” Since Sam neglected to inform me about his granddaughter, your note will suffice. Bill Davidson, ever the faithful corre2013-Issue 3

spondent, sent in the following: “Greetings from Lynchburg. I’m pleased to report that Pattie had shoulder surgery (replacement of her left shoulder) on April 8, 2013, and the operation was successful. (Her surgeon was Dr. Robert Sydnor ’71.) She is now undergoing therapy and progressing nicely and enjoying more mobility, with each rehabilitation session. I talked with Ronnie Bryan recently, and he has come through his hip replacement surgery just fine. I had a long telephone conversation with Brother Rat Harry Fahrner who now resides in Spokane, WA. He and wife Joy enjoy good health, so Harry says, for the age we all are. As for me, I try to play golf a couple times a week, deliver meals to those in need through the Meals On Wheels Program of our church and work with the Elks Lodge to assist in fulfilling some of the needs of our veterans at the Salem Veterans Hospital. I don’t want to wish the summer away, because time passes too quickly now anyway, but I’m looking forward to football season this fall at VMI when many of our Brother Rats get together.” You have a full plate, Bill. Keep up the good work! Bill Nolley sent in the nearby picture, along with this note: “Thanks for your wakeup call for class notes. Sorry you need to undergo eyelid surgery, but I know all will go well. [Ed. note: It did.] I’m off to the monthly ‘Old Corps’ VMI luncheon at extra Billy’s. Talked to my roomy, Charlie Luck, to see if he would attend, but his son has him in leadership meetings all day. Young Charlie IV ’83, who is president of Luck Stone, has promoted wonderful and effective leadership programs throughout the company. While cleaning out some photos, I came across one of our Brother Rats in 1954 at Lockbourne AFB, Columbus, Ohio. Photo nearby, left to right: Irv McClelland, Jimmy Atkinson, Bill Nolley, Bill Ellis, Will Washington, Al Shattuck, Frank Walter, Randy O’Neill and Charlie Luck.” I’ll close with notes from Marty Fisher and Ron Bryan. Marty wrote: “Bill Wainwright, Jack Owen and I, the three amigos of Yorktown, VA, are still kicking, but Jack says, ‘not as high.’ Boots Wainwright had a knee replacement on April 16, and as of this writing (late April), has not had any complications. If any Brother Rats are ever in our area, notify one of us, and you will get three BRs instead of just one.”

’56

Richard M. Smith

I hope to keep this edition free from unhappy notes about our class. So, I will begin with my just concluded visit to the sunshine state. After a couple of days with Honey and her cousin, Ainsly, in St. Augustine, she and I joined Fred and Mary Jo Farthing for two days celebration at Spider and Ann Allison’s in Melbourne. We were feted by Paul and Betsy Bark to dinner at the club in spite of their being in Texas. It’s nice to have friends in “high places.” From there, we went to Sarasota and spent two days with Billy and Alice Elmore ’57. They are buying a condo in this golf resort, The Royal Oaks. While there, I contacted Walt Tatum at his home in Tampa. He only teaches flying now to those needing to upgrade their flying license. However, he still enjoys flying as a release of tension, which he has plenty of. Walt is still caring for his son who lives in a care facility, but he visits him every day. His wife also requires a lot of special attention by Walt. He had a visit recently by Dick and Sue Justice who were down there to visit their son’s family living in Florida. From there, I returned to St. Augustine for a day, before heading down I-95 again to meet Paul Gronroos and play two days of golf in the wind. My first round was acceptable, but the “yipps” got to me the next! It was great being with Paul, who plays almost every day somewhere and can still crush the ball. He and I found the restaurant on U.S. Rt. l, where we ate last year, “Pineapple Pete’s.” If you get to Florida, this is a must! From Vero Beach, I traveled on Rt.60 through the orange groves and truck farming section to Winter Haven to visit Scottie and Artis Boland. Their hospitality was everything and more than I remembered from two years ago. In spite of being active in their business of providing much of the pyrotechnics to Disneyworld in Orlando and shows like “Bass Masters” finale, they spent time with me, and we had lots of laughs. Their son, Mal, who runs a lot of their business, took me bass fishing in his newly purchased boat. We did put several nice bass in the boat. I also got to see the Detroit Tigers beat the Washington Nationals at their training camp in Lakeland on St. 75

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1956: Spider Allison and Fred Farthing on the golf course behind Allison’s home.

Patrick’s Day. My final outing was playing golf with Honey at the “Slammer Course” at the Golf Hall of Fame near St. Augustine. I managed to beat her by one stroke! I arrived back in Virginia after three weeks in the sun to snow and rain. I just received an e-mail from Woody Woodward as follows: “Dick, thank you for this e-mail. I have just gotten off the phone with USAA, and my card has been approved, and I will have it in the near future. I have been dealing with USAA for more years than I care to remember and find it an excellent organization to deal with. Dick, I was in Lexington yesterday for the ‘Old Corps’ luncheon, etc. It was a fun time, but I had my driver, Owen Smith, whom you met at Bill Mears’ funeral, and we decided to leave after the luncheon. We did have an

excellent speaker after the really nice meal. I had hoped to take Bill Menefee with us, but he opted out. He is not getting around as well as he would like to and is a bit self-conscious about having to use the walker. I was sorry that more BRs were not there, but we did have four. Joining me were Jim and Betty Mann, Hoppy Holsinger and his wife, and Doug Gottwald and his wife. We did have good seats, as our table was second behind the first, and we had as many BRs as just about every other class in attendance. The weather was nice, if a bit cold, and travel was easy. Dick, I am feeling so much better lately and hope it will continue for a while longer. I missed getting to the 55th Reunion but am now looking forward to the 60th. I can’t get there more often but might try if something comes up. Owen and I are going to try an extended cruise starting on April 14. We will fly to Delhi, India, and spend three days touring western India, to include a visit to the Taj Mahal, Jaipur and Bombay. We will then board a ship in Bombay and cruise to Dubai, Doha, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Muscat, Salalah, Oman and then to Petra Jordan. We then sail down the Red Sea to Luxor, Egypt, and will leave the ship. We have one night in Luxor and will have a chance to go into King Tut’s tomb. After Luxor, we will fly to Cairo and visit the Sphinx and Great Pyramids for two days, before boarding a plane and heading home about May 8. I really don’t know if I am up to this, but there is a lot of cruising time for me to recuperate. My back problems have gone away, and I can sit without being in pain for extended periods of time now. I am fairly amazed at how well I have come

Class of 1956: Dining at the Members Club in Melbourne, FL, are, seated from left, Mary Jo Farthing, Ann Allison, Spider Allison and Honey Rector. Standing: Fred Farthing and Dick Smith, right.

back from where I was a year or so ago. I am going to try it and see, though. That about covers the news from here. Hope you and Honey are doing well and looking forward to spring and summer. I hope to talk with Bob Irby and Bill Menefee soon. More later – Woody.”

Class of 1956: Paul Gronroos and Dick Smith playing golf at Fort Pierce, FL.

Unfortunately, I just learned of Ron Frinks having to be in hospice care after his wife, Jane, was told by UVa Hospital personnel that they could offer no further help for his brain tumor. A week after receiving this, Jane called to say Ron passed away. A flower arrangement from the class was sent to their home. I also talked with Wally Timmons who is being treated in the Norfolk hospital for a respiratory and blood disorder. He hopes the doctors can stabilize his condition. After missing Ina Gee and Jack Pittman when I stopped by on return from attending the funeral of Paul Camp Marks ’46 in Franklin, she called. We had a nice chat, including Jack, and they are hanging in there, as many of us, with some infirmities. They were also at the funeral of Paul and had visited in the apartment that he and Joan Marks had at Woods Edge retirement facility in Franklin. She and Jack are considering moving there in the not-toodistant future. Jere Real writes he ran into Bill Stokes while shopping in Lynchburg. Bill had talked with Jack Witt recently and urged him to come back to some of our class events. Jere’s great nephew is entering VMI this fall on a NROTC scholarship. He was in Lexington during the prospective New Cadet weekend visit with the mother and step-father from Mississippi. Jere talked with Russ Quinlan who is hopeful we will have another mini-reunion this year. Further info VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES was received from Jennifer Timmons become president of the Barry Goldon Wally’s condition. He remains in water Scholarship and Excellence in critical condition at Virginia Beach Education Foundation in Springfield, Hospital, but doctors feel he will be VA. He wisely walks to the metro able to improve enough to go home stop, takes the train to Springfield soon. She suggests that you send and walks to his office. The traffic cards to him at 3636 Kings Lake Dr., in northern Virginia is so bad, Frank Virginia Beach, VA 23452. I called rarely drives. J.P. Moore to let him know of Jim After a wonderful visit with Frank Mann’s recent fall that put him in and Ann, we left the next morning the hospital with a broken leg, but he for Lorton and the Auto Train. Even had already been informed by Elsie on Sunday, the traffic was terrible. Tolley. He is back on the golf course I lived 63 years in Alexandria and again, playing three times a week. Arlington, but since we left in 1998, However, he still has to walk his dog Class of 1956: Scottie Boland and Mal Boland the traffic is much worse. We were to keep in shape! I was glad to learn fishing at Winter Haven, FL. glad to return to Florida via the Auto that the former member of the golf Train, saving 800 miles of driving. team has trouble, also, now breaking Malcolm Smith in Deland wrote in 90. For those who have expressed interest in southern hospitality. We had a wonderful April that he was sitting in his VMI chair a mini-reunion this year, I do not plan on one. visit with Bill and Martha. She is a splendid that he received on Sept. 9, 1953. He claims I hope this summer is good for all. cook, even serving us homemade bread! it is still in good condition. This past year Yours in the Spirit, The next morning, we left for Virginia, has been a challenge with cancer, and the Dick arriving in the afternoon. My days of driv- process isn’t over yet. His favorite granding the 730 miles to Lexington in one day daughter, Gabby, graduated from grade are over. school and starts high school in August. Clayton M. Thomas III The Class Agents Conference was a joint She has done well and already completed conference with chapter leaders and was algebra I. called the Volunteer Leaders Conference. Joe and Ann Spivey are thinking of The report from Superintendent Gen. Peay moving to smaller quarters. Since he has Dawn and I had a delightful trip to VMI ’62 and the Inauguration Day experiences a sizable collection of history and biografor the Class Agents Conference, April by the Cadet First Captain and the regimen- phy books, he must be going through the 19-20. On our drive up, we stopped in tal S-3 were two highlights of the meeting. process of downsizing, also. I find parting Simpsonville, SC, to visit Bill and Martha To the great disappointment of the Corps with books is like losing old friends. Some Batten. Before arriving, we ran into a heavy of Cadets, the Friday afternoon parade was of these books go back to my childhood. rain storm and became disoriented. (That is rained out. We know how much sorrow this Martin Andersen sent us a picture of a polite way of saying we were lost.) A kind brings to the Corps. his new bride, Lynne, taken with Kay Samaritan took pity on us, called Bill for We left VMI, driving to Alexandria, Schwendinger at her favorite sushi bar directions on his cell phone and personally VA, and had a great visit with Frank and where Martin takes Kay every Wednesday. led us to the Batten’s home. That was true Ann Gilmore. Frank left Oxford, MS, to Frank Holmes may be the only VMI man

’57

Class of 1957: Kay Schwendinger with Martin and Lynne Andersen at Kay’s favorite Sushi bar.

2013-Issue 3

Class of 1957: From left, a captured Russian colonel, Lt. Frank Holmes and an unidentified man.

CLASS NOTES to have captured a Russian colonel who was “snooping” around in spring 1959 at a new Nike Hercules missile site under construction in Dallau, Germany. In the photo, Frank is the one in the middle. Frank and Anne had a great time at our 55th Reunion. Lucy McCormack from Virginia Beach sent us a sympathy card on the passing of Ms. Mosby, our 20-year-old cat, who died on the Ides of March. It was nice of Lucy to send such a caring card. Harry Huneycutt had rotator cuff surgery in December, as he fell while hunting a desert bighorn sheep in Nevada. Rita has had some back problems, but both are now on the mend. “Getting older is not for the weak!” Harry is still working part time, and he loves teaching the new doctors. Harry and Rita are building a new home which is one story with solar panels. Recently, Dawn and I drove to Titusville to have lunch with Ken and Katie Dickinson at Dixie Crossroads, an excellent seafood restaurant. As usual, we all overate but had a delightful visit. Our drive was a pleasant 125-mile round trip, and we enjoy returning home on the more relaxing U.S. Route 1 rather than I-95. The interstate has too many semis, and everyone except me drives too fast.

’58

Lee McCown

Editor’s Note: The following first portion of the class notes is written by outgoing Class Agent Wes Roberts with assistance from his wife, Annemarie. BRs: This issue of class notes serves to welcome our new class agent, Albert Lee McCown. Lee is one of five McCowns who proudly wear the VMI ring. With this background and legacy, I feel Lee will do an exemplary job. It’s time for some new blood. So, after 15 years as your class agent, I am turning over the pen to our BR Lee. As for me, I am taking up BR Gene Grayson’s invitation to “go fishing” on my little river, where you have to bring your own water most of the year. I would like to thank the ladies at the Alumni Review, Hope Hennessey and Brenda Stoner, and the staff in 78

the VMI Foundation office, Col. Pat Webb and Norma Robinson, for their support. Most importantly, I would like to thank you, BRs, for keeping the mailbag full and making this job a pleasurable one. Back in November, I shared with you BRs that Charlie Hayes was working with Col. John Brodie (Hon), VMI music director, on new drums for the Regimental Band. Those of you in attendance at the 55th Reunion heard the results of Charlie’s efforts at the class dinner. After much research, planning, letter writing, favor seeking, cajoling and just plain hard work, Charlie pulled off a gift from the class of 1958 that will keep on giving for many marches to come. Three beautiful snare drums were presented to the Regimental Band just in time for our reunion. Contributors to this project were Jules Berman, Jim Cowan, Bill Keefe, Hull Negley, Wes Roberts, Robbie Robertson, Paul Royer, Jim Stilwell, Drew Troxler, Bob Troxler ’63, Warren Yaun and John H. Brewington, a former patient of Charlie’s, who refitted the drum heads on the new drums at no cost to the class. Mr. Brewington was presented with a certificate of appreciation from the class, hand-lettered by Charlie. Also making a separate and much appreciated contribution to the music department was BR Tony Lash. As Charlie said, the grins on the faces of the cadets trying out the drums for the first time made all the efforts worthwhile. In no small way, a vote of thanks goes to BR Charlie for all his hard work. Well done, BR! Joining me in the non-attendee ranks were some of the following BRs. Earl Bennett was not given traveling privileges by his doctors, due to some heart issues. It’s hard to imagine a class reunion without Earl’s infectious laugh permeating the gathering. I know you were sorely missed, BR Earl. Dave Pitkethly, still keeping fit with swimming, elliptical trainer and walking (no more running), was not able to attend, as he and his wife, Mara, were on another medical mission trip, this time to Ethiopia. Ewing Best was kept away by family matters and health related issues. Ewing says she lives vicariously through the travels of Charlie’s classmates and really was disappointed that she was unable to attend. Ronnie Swirk is sticking closer to his home turf these days, as well. He said he was not feeling comfortable with making the long drive by himself. BR

Ronnie is probably out flying his motorized airplanes. We wish him fair skies. To fill out the gim list, BR Gene Grayson was anticipating shoulder surgery. Not having heard otherwise, I assume all has gone as well as possible, and he is limbering up his repaired shoulder, casting flies and hoping for the Big One downstream. As for me, it has been a pleasure these 15 years, corresponding with and receiving news from you BRs. I know BR Lee will do a good job as he steps into the position. I encourage you to keep his mailbag full. God’s blessings, Wes Editor’s Note: The following remainder of the class notes was written by incoming Class Agent Lee McCown. As I said at our 55th Reunion dinner, there is no way I can fill the shoes of Wes Roberts and not just because of our different foot sizes. He faithfully brought us class news from 1999 to 2013, and we can never thank him enough. You will see the tributes paid to him at our reunion below. The best to you, Wes, and to Annemarie, who has been his faithful aide. The April reunion brought 52 BRs to Lexington, most with wives or companions, for beautiful spring weather, a variety of activities and a surge of memories. We missed those who wanted to come but were unable to because of illness or injury. Add the Boeggemans, the Dunns, the Keefes, the Thomases and Walter Leach to Wes’ list above. As we settled into our 55th Reunion, one BR, which one I forget, recalled how surprising it was for him in our Rat year to march in front of a class celebrating its 50th anniversary, a class that had probably been too young to fight in World War I. Maybe some Rats were thinking such things about us this time around. The reunion went well from my standpoint as chair, with buses running on time, thanks to Paul Royer; the hospitality suite (always a lively place when we weren’t out marching or eating) stocked at all times with food and drink, thanks to Howard and Joann Savage; and registration in the capable hands of Frank Norvell and Martha Booker. Frank set some kind of record for hours sitting in one place, but I kept him supplied with libations. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Class of ’58 Reunion

The class is looking sharp, marching into Barracks.

The Old Yell led by Stirling Williamson, Ernie Edgar and Barney Odend’hal.

The ladies of the class on a sunny spring reunion day.

Jan Woodman and his daughter, Eve Woodman, with Drew Troxler. Sheila Berman is in the background.

Peggy and Jim Poteet at the class dinner, with Ernie Edgar in the background, capturing the scene.

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From left, Jim Poteet, Hunter Clarke, Paul Royer and Jim Stilwell at the Hampton Inn Col Alto, home base for the class’s 55th Reunion.

BRs in a sea of cadets during the Old Yell.

Class of 1958: Row 1: Dave Camper, Lee McCown, Bill Gee, Hull Negley, Dave Pai, Gene Martin, Ernie Edgar, Jim Stillwell, Ted Henry, Mike Smeltzer, Duke Bishop and Jan Woodman. Row 2: Moon Menefee, Tom Nance, Brooke Doggett, Dave Martin, Stuart Whitehurst, Jack Payne, Duke Johnston, Jerry Paull, Bill Rousos, Jim Cowan, Howard Savage and Joe Gray. Row 3: Charlie Hayes, Jack Cunningham, Warren Yaun, Hunter Clarke, John Peters, Bill Holt, Frank Norvell, Stirling Williamson, Jim Poteet, Jules Berman, Roy Palmer and Bill Harshaw. Row 4: Tom Smythe, Paul Davies, Onza Hyatt, Roland Tharpe, Art Carnevale, Bob Spurrier, Paul Royer, Tom Saunders, Jack Boze, Gates Sykes, Ken Godfrey, Bob King and Drew Troxler.

CLASS NOTES

55th Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April 22-23, 2013

Class of 1958

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES The highlight of the golf game organized by Brooke Doggett was a hole-in-one scored by Ernie Edgar! Thanks to Bill Gee for the booklet he once again put together so well – we have no excuse for not staying in touch. And Class President Stirling Williamson and Class Agent Wes Roberts and his wife, Annemarie, were always available for counsel, which I greatly appreciated. And thanks to the Carnevales, the Edgars, Charlie Hayes, the Paises and the Poteets for the reunion photos they provided for consideration. The hospitality suite was jazzed up by a good looking display brought by Bill Harshaw, which showed the project for which Bill is raising funds – the restoration of 11 marble statues by sculptor Moses Ezekial (1866) in the Norfolk Botanical Gardens. Bill says each marble statue will cost $15,000-$20,000 to restore. Interested BRs should mail contributions to Norfolk Botanical Gardens, 6700 Azalea Garden Road, Norfolk, VA, 23518. Please designate “Ezekial Fund, VMI ’58” in the lower left of your check. No amount is too small. Many thanks to those of you who have already done so. Sounds like a worthwhile project, Bill, and an article about this is being prepared for the next issue of the Alumni Review. Ezekial was an important figure in VMI history who fought at New Market. This is the 100th anniversary of the dedication of his statue of Stonewall Jackson on the Parade Ground. He’s better known in Europe than he is here. Laura and I live in his hometown of Richmond, and there’s no recognition of him here. The superintendent did a good job at the VMI dinner, as did Col. Dale Brown at a morning lecture/virtual tour, of filling us in on what’s happening on Post. Good thing it was virtual, because there was too much going on to allow for bus trips to such areas as North Post, the other side of the Nile Valley, where new athletic fields and Rat challenge training facilities have been built. Paul Royer and I climbed up the hill, and Paul tried swinging on a rope and dropping into a mulch-like bed of shredded tires. We didn’t try the rappelling or jumping off the tower into the creek (only, of course, because we were overdressed). Many of us were saddened to hear the long list of BR names, 50, read by Alma Jenkins and John Peters at the memorial service. No 2013-Issue 3

Class of 1958: Charlie Hayes with the beneficiaries of his efforts to raise funds for new drums. From left, Hayes; Cadets Phil Crane ’16, Ben Hayes ’15 and Nick Millward ’14; and VMI Director of Music Col. John Brodie (Hon).

longer with us, they were suitably honored by the homily of the Rev. Alane Cameron Miles (my stepdaughter), a prayer by Joe Gray, piano music by Cadet William Bacci and “Taps” by Cadet Marty Tucker. At the parade were our two courageous guys in wheelchairs: Hull Negley and Jan Woodman. Hull asked that I send this to all BRs who attended: “Judy and I want to thank all of you for your assistance to me during the reunion. I certainly couldn’t have maneuvered as well without your support. If one looks in the dictionary for the definition of Brother Rat Spirit, it will say, ‘That which is exemplified by the Class of 1958.’ RAH VIRGINIA MIL! GOD BLESS THE CLASS OF 1958!” To get around, Hull also used a very high tech cane, which shoots out red laser stripes that he says help him move forward. Jan was moved forward by his beautiful daughter, Eve Woodman. The march into Barracks ended with Stir and Ernie leading the Old Yell, supported by Barney Odend’hal, who carried the guidon. It was as moving as always, with more cadets than I have ever seen lining the stoops and joining us. The class ahead of us (’53) had a sentry box climber packing his own oxygen, which drew huge applause. These Parade Ground activities were filmed by a camera-laden drone circling overhead at all times. My son, Derek McCown ’89, provided this drone-produced website for us to enjoy, showing our reunion day: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HjqaRmYbX8&feature=player_embedded Before our class dinner, we were entertained by a combo from The Commanders,

including Band Director Col. John Brodie. Our own Paul Royer sat in and had a couple of solos, including a great version of “Summertime.” Stir presented a certificate and a gift for Wes Roberts, honoring him for 15 years of outstanding service as class agent, and those attending got to see the class gift for Wes and Annemarie, inscribed thus: For gallantry as Class Agents In the spirit 1999-2013 Thank you from your Brother Rats VMI Class of 1958 Laura and I are planning to take these to Wes and Annemarie in Florida in mid-June. Jimmy Moore’s comedy routine after the class dinner was as entertaining as ever, unfortunately without Bill Holland to heckle him. Some things about the class of ’58 don’t change: Jimmy’s still talking about Bill and Hillary Clinton and still spinning jokes about fictional barstool conversations involving BRs and their wives. Many enjoyed brunch at the Sheridan Livery on the last day, courtesy of Jack Payne, who stuck around until the last person left. Jack says he has no plans to start another company, although some of his previous employees are ready to come back and work for him if he does. Jack wants to spend more time at his mountain place and work on a few long-delayed projects. Let us know how that goes, Jack. Others on the reunion committee who helped were my wife, Laura Cameron, Linda Doggett, Hope Royer, Jane Williamson, 81

CLASS NOTES and Mike and Catherine Smeltzer. Mike be in print. It also took a lot of work to bring extremely difficult positions, trying not wasn’t called upon to do much money work the technology up to date and dumb down to collapse onto the floor. The instructor this time, but he stands ready if we run over some of it, but I think that the sci-fi fans out told me to keep at it and said that I could the reunion budget, which it doesn’t appear there will find it a good read. Thanks also to “modify” my positions somewhat. We’ll we will. Frank Norvell, who read the first draft and see how it goes. On the last day of the reunion, as Laura and has been encouraging me for the past 29-plus This sad news is from Howell Bowen: I were on our way to see the Moses Ezekial years to make the first couple of chapters “Janice, my Ring Figure date to whom I exhibit at the VMI Museum (did you know something that will grab the readers’ inter- gave a miniature, best friend and wonderful it’s the oldest museum in Virginia?), we tried est. Now I’m working on a ‘thriller’ about wife for 53 years, passed away on April 7, to walk across the Parade Ground, but it was jihadists setting forest fires and attacking the 2013, after a brave and brief encounter with closed because a suspicious package had electrical grid. Don’t worry; although it’s cancer.” Our deepest sympathy to Hal. been found in the area. We watched as the plausible, anybody who tries to do it will In closing, I want to provide something for same robotic technology used to dismantle run into traps that are built into the story.” which there have been many requests – our “Improvised Explosive Devices” was used Tom Nance writes that he and Ru recently daughter, Alane’s, homily at the reunion to poke at and then shoot the packmemorial service, something I age. No explosion occurred, and think other reunion classes reading we figured it must have been some the Alumni Review will apprecicadet’s laundry bag. ate, too: In other miscellaneous class news, “In a service of recognition and thanks to Hull for the great scrapremembrance, we think back on books he’s been tending for years. our own lives and how we knew I am the keeper of them now, so these men. What were we dolet me know when you’d like to ing? Who were we then? These see them. memories are like photographs in Bob Spurrier remains excited the mind. Just hearing their names about his new knees, declaring that is flipping through a scrapbook of he is no longer bowlegged. Knowyour lives. ing that he jumped out of perfectly “Some of these brothers you lost good airplanes more than 2,000 early, some recently and many in times, it’s no surprise that he needed between. For those who died renew knees. I heard from Maj. Gen. cently, you had the opportunity to Tom Tait ’55 that Bob, while in a Class of 1958: At the memorial service, Alma Jenkins, see a full life. You were, if only at the Rev. Alane Cameron Miles and John Peters, after diplomatic role for the U.S. Army, the reading of the names of deceased classmates. a distance, witnesses to their hopes once left his desk, put on his fatigues Cadet Marty Tucker played “Taps.” and disappointments. You watched and went into the jungle to prevent the men you knew become more a war between Ecuador and Peru. fully themselves as they aged. And Funny, knowing what a gung ho warrior Bob celebrated their 34th anniversary. “It’s been they did the same for you. was, I might have expected him to start some a great run,” Tom says. “My two kids are “As we think over these things, we are kind of conflict. doing well. Daughter Kim is a physician’s reflecting on legacy. Legacy is, of course, Bill Keefe asks from St. Augustine that we assistant and is getting relicensed in NC. how we are remembered. Unfortunately, we remember BR Lomax Gwathmey Jr., who My son-in-law is a nuclear engineer. His never have the control we think we have over was memorialized at our reunion service. nuclear plant in Clearwater, FL, broke, and how we are remembered. We have control Bill says Lomax was medically retired from they’re closing it. The company is moving in some ways but not necessarily as we may the U.S. Army as a lieutenant colonel after them to another plant in South Port, NC. imagine, because our legacy is built in part two, below-the-zone promotions. Bill was in They are very excited. Even got a promotion by us, in part by those we leave behind. We touch with him and his mother until about and kicker in the deal. Ru and I made it to all know well the stories of public figures a month before he died in 1970 in a Florida Europe twice last year. A week in London/ who built one legacy, only to have an uninV.A. hospital from brain cancer. Paris in May and a two-week river cruise in tentional one take its place. Bill also reports, “My granddaughter, December. Had a great time, but it’s probably “I am a fan of obituaries. I love a wellwho [just finished] her freshman year at the our last time.” Tom, you and Ru look too fit written one and would like to share this University of Florida, showed me how to to be giving up the travel! recent one that perhaps you have seen on rewrite the first chapter of a science fiction I am getting in shape for the 60th Reunion the news or on Facebook or somewhere else novel I’d been working on since 1984. It by starting a yoga class. I went last night, where it has been hailed as the best obit ever. subsequently was accepted for publication expecting to lie around on a mat with some It honors Harry Weathersby Stamps, born by Brighton Publishing. They tell me that it attractive women but found myself perspir- Dec. 19, 1932, died March 9, 2013, from will be another 10 months or so before it will ing more than usual at the gym and in some Long Beach, Mississippi: ‘Harry Weathersby 82

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Stamps, ladies’ man, foodie, natty dresser “My grandmother, Frances McCown, volunteer gardener now in Central Park who and accomplished traveler, died on Saturday, would regale me with tales of her life over devotes all his free time to keeping one of March 9, 2013. He had a life-long love affair a cocktail of Virginia Gentleman and ginger America’s most scenic parks beautiful. The with deviled eggs, Lane cakes, boiled pea- ale, and her favorite stories were the ones of novelist Anne Tyler has written dozens of nuts, Vienna [Vi-e’-na] sausages on saltines, her youth. ‘How’d I get this old?’ she used books but didn’t give a face-to-face interhis homemade canned fig preserves, pork to ask me. She was in her 90s, and I was in view for 40 years. Now she does. It’s never chops, turnip greens and buttermilk served my 30s at the time. I used to make up things too late to make the legacy you want. in martini glasses garnished with cornbread. to ease her mind: that it was just a virus; that “We get to choose our path and our legacy. ‘Harry was thoroughly interested in poli- she wasn’t old, she just remembered a lot; Now, sometimes we misstep and our legacy tics and religion and enjoyed watching politi- ‘have another sip of that Virginia Gentle- is chosen for us. We are remembered for our cians act like preachers and preachers act like man – you’ll feel younger soon.’ But she absence, our temper, our traits we aren’t the politicians. He was fond of saying a phrase saw herself in the spring of life and couldn’t proudest of. Hmmm, how to get past that? he coined, ‘I am not running for political imagine that one could still feel young inside We all make mistakes; how do we remedy office or trying to get married’ when he was in the winter of life. those situations? ‘speaking the truth.’ He also took pride in his “That ended up being her legacy. Grand“Earlier I shared words from Seneca, service during the Korean conflict, serving mom Frances was a 19-year-old girl, in the Nero’s adviser, ‘Let us make the best of our at the rank of corporal – just like loved ones while they are with us, Napoleon, as he would say. and let us not bury our love with ‘Harry traveled extensively. He death.’ Highlights of his life are only stayed in the finest quality that he was a political presence, AAA-rated campgrounds. He deand he left timeless instructions spised phonies, his 1969 Volvo for living in the face of death. But (which he also loved), know-it-all Seneca also spent part of his life Yankees, Southerners who used the in exile. words ‘veranda’ and ‘porte cochere’ “The Rev. David MacPherson – to put on airs, eating grape leaves, who wrote, ‘But to feel a genuine ‘Law and Order’ (all franchises), cats fellowship for the whole human and Martha Stewart, in reverse order. family, to act so that our empathy ‘Because of his irrational fear that is evident wherever we go, that’s his family would throw him a golfthe object. That’s the life-long themed funeral despite his hatred goal’ – was a mentor of mine. One Class of 1958: Jimmy Moore in his humorous glory for the sport, his family will hold of the ways he guided me was by after the class dinner. a private, family-only service free sharing the mistakes and regrets he of any type of ‘theme.’ Finally, the had so that I would not make the family asks that in honor of Harry you write best of ways, for over 75 years. Whether same mistakes. your Congressman and ask for the repeal marrying a VMI man and raising two out “Studies show that those with the fullest of Daylight Savings Time. Harry wanted of four sons as VMI men helped or hurt that lives, those who say they are the happiest, everyone to get back on the Lord’s Time.’ effort, I don’t know, but she pulled it off. those who have that elusive gift known as [End Stamps obituary] “What is your legacy? No one is too old or ‘quality of life’ are connected to others. Yes, “Harry Stamps had a legacy, you see. One young to ponder this question. Will you be others: others with their annoying habits, might think it was that he was a character. I remembered for your humor, your generos- their infernal willfulness and their ridiculous helped rebuild Long Beach, MS, after Hur- ity, your willingness to listen or your ease insistence on doing their own thing. Yes, in ricane Katrina, and let me tell you – he’s with asking the hard questions? Are you the connecting with those, all of those – neighpretty normal for that area. one who lends a hand, the one who eases a bors, family, community members, VMI “The legacy of the former Corporal Stamps burden, the one who is steadfast? What has Brother Rats – those are the connections is that he lived fully himself. He knew what been most important to you? Can you say through which we build our legacy. The he loved, and he shared that love openly, that you have lived according to the most legacy of your Brother Rats, the best of their humorously and consistently. important things in your life? lives were with others, that includes you. “This is who we are called to be: fully “It is never too late to build a legacy. Paul “As we remember your classmates who ourselves. Too often we think we are the Newman turned from movies to making have gone before, let us hold up their legachildren of spring for now and for always. I delicious, affordable food that gives back to cies. Let us hold up those friendships. Let imagine myself a college student all the time. the community. Betty White played a nice us go forth in our own lives striving to live It is an honest mistake, since I have been in old lady for about three decades, then one with purpose and vigor creating the legacies school a lot since my college degree. (But day decided she wanted to play a not very we dream of. not so honest – our musicians today were nice old lady. There is a rock n’ roller from “May it be so.” [End of Alane’s homily] not born yet when I was in college. Sigh.) my generation named Billy Squier – he is a Yes, may it be so, BRs. Let me hear from 2013-Issue 3

CLASS NOTES you in the coming weeks. It’s an honor to serve as class agent, and I’ll try to uphold the standard set by Wes and Annemarie. Lee

’59

Shep Shepard

We lost another Brother Rat this past quarter: Laurin Dick. Laurin was with us for only our Rat year. He and his wife, Jutta, made their home in Springfield, VA, where he worked at Georgetown University Hospital until his retirement in 1995. Unfortunately, he did not keep in contact with any BRs in our class. Ed Talley and Russ Chew roomed with Laurin and both were stunned when he did not return our third class year. Ed remembers him as most likable, never complained and was truly a good hearted guy. Russ remembers him as a very softspoken, kind and thoughtful individual. I wish we had more information on his life and family, but regardless, our thoughts and prayers are with them. Lee Southard successfully endured a pacemaker replacement. Normally, this is a routine operation, but things were a little more difficult for Lee because of his heart condition and the fact that all three of his leads had to be replaced. Thank goodness all went well, and he is in good shape. Our thoughts and prayer continue to be with Lee and Nancy as he recovers from his surgery. Lee sold his house on Sanibel Island, FL, and purchased a condo just down the road in Fort Myers. Nancy also sold her home in PA and is in the process of moving furniture for their new condo. A tentative date for their wedding has been set for June 15th, so by the time this article is published, they will be an old married couple. Congratulations, Lee and Nancy; both of you are so fortunate to have found one another. God bless you both, and here’s to a long, healthy union. Jim and Mary Lew Edmunds enjoyed a long awaited trip to Kauai, HI, where they relaxed in the South Pacific sun and relished the balmy trade winds. Mary Lew has just started chemo, via pills, for her non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It’s too soon to tell if it’s working, but they are maintaining a positive attitude. She gets blood transfu84

Class of 1959: The 55th Stonewall Class Reunion Committee met at the Saude Creek Vineyards in Lenexa, VA, to lay out plans for the upcoming reunion. From left: Billy Kornegay, Shep Shepard, Russ Orrison, Buzz Nowlin, Rusty Loth, Art Brandriff, Jim Vermillion and Harlee Pate.

sions every two or three weeks, and if the chemo can reduce that frequency, it will be wonderful. Our prayers continue to be with Mary Lew, as she fights this terrible and destructive disease. Gene King recently completed 44 proton radiation treatments for prostrate cancer. He had a number of choices and selected the treatment that he was convinced was best for him. Possibilities are very high that he is now cancer free, but only time will tell. Gene wants all his BRs to know that there are many solutions to the prostrate cancer problem, and proton therapy is only one option but one that worked for him. Thanks for the info, Gene. Our prayers for you will continue until you report that you are cancer free. Don Messner, our able representative for the Stonewall Class of ’59 at VMI Legacy Day, found no challengers to being the oldest class represented. Don flew to Pittsburgh, picked up their winter car and nine-year-old grandson, Adam, and drove to Lexington. Son Doug Messner ’87 came up from Riner, VA, and together they tagged along with Company “B” which was made up of 8- to 10-year-old prospective Keydets. They trekked down the stairs across the Maury and up the succeeding hill to the field training site at about the same elevation as the Institute. Not a bad hike for those youngsters, but Don is convinced that, had his cardiologist been along, he would have signed off on him skipping his upcoming stress test. The individual sessions were short but effective. A couple of obstacle course runs, a visit to the museum and a cadet room, some basic marching, uniform try-ons, etc. and finally a march down to Crozet for lunch. All the

cadets were extremely helpful, including a couple of EE majors who Doug coerced into showing some of the work they are doing in their EE lab. This intrigued Adam, because it involved their developing a circuit board to control a remotely driven device similar to some of his toys. All in all, a worthwhile trip, in that as Adam handed the checkout lady his obligatory VMI sweatshirt so grandpa could pay for it, she asked if he was going to go to VMI, and he replied, “I think so.” Who knows? That is eight to nine years from now, but at least he’s been exposed to it and had a first experience being away from Mom for an extended time. Shortly after enjoying a weekend with Mel and Jean Anderson in Cedar Key, FL, Ann and I met them again in historic Homestead, FL, for a pleasant evening before venturing down the keys to Key West. We had a great time at a beautiful resort located on the southeast end of the Keys. We enjoyed the Key West experiences – doing the Duval Crawl, visiting President Truman’s home and absorbing the beautiful scenery, albeit the weather was cool for thin blooded folks like us. While doing the Duval Crawl, we came upon a rowdy bunch viewing the crowd from a perch at the Caroline Bar. They saw our VMI emblazoned paraphernalia, and we soon discovered that they were members of the VMI class of 1970: Susan and Herb Braun ’70 and Jill and Tom Cooke ’70. We spent a few minutes talking to them, and as we departed, Mel commented, “It’s nice to see the youngsters having such a good time!” Their picture appears in the class notes for 1970. Brad Willard is pretty sure that VMI has VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES produced only three smokejumpers: Bob a riverboat for a cruise down the Elbe River. more important, he has received tremendous Webster ’56, Jim Piggott ’57 and Brad. They ended up in Prague a couple of weeks feedback from those who have read it. Not All were trained and worked out of the For- later, passing through the beautiful scenery one adverse remark which, for a writer, is est Service Base at Missoula, very unusual. Congratulations, MT. Bob was Brad’s dyke and Jack. Let’s hope the remaining motivated him to join the ranks. volumes do as well. Ina Ingram He recalls that Jim and Brad was excited to hear about Jack jumped in a fire together in the Angolia’s new book. Ina’s oldest Bitterroot National Forest in MT. grandson, Bo McGee, graduates An incredible experience. Brad from West Point in May, and his included in his letter a White first assignment will be the 82nd House history magazine which Airborne Division. A great choice included an article about “The and a wonderful assignment, but Willard Hotel.” His ancestor, unfortunately, the more famous Joseph Willard, became the and undoubtedly the more presowner and left it to his son, Joe tigious airborne unit, the 101st Willard, the last male Willard to Airborne Division, converted to own “The Willard.” Joe was an air assault years ago and there1886 graduate of VMI, and at the fore wasn’t available. Ina can’t encouragement of Brad’s father, wait to surprise Bo with a copy Capt. William B. Willard, USN of this book. Class of 1959: Jean and Mel Anderson with Ann and Shep (Ret), he also attended VMI. Shepard halfway through the Duval Crawl in Key West, FL. The LAME Group – Loth, Now we know “The rest of the Andersen, Myers and Eggleston story.” I always enjoy reading – changed its mantle to LAMME, Brad’s historical tidbits; thanks again, Brad. of Germany and the Czech Republic. because John Martin recently was inducted. John Patane and Mike Vargosko attended Jack and Joy Angolia leave shortly for a The LAMME met not long ago and indocthe First Annual Old Grads Luncheon at trip similar to the one that Ralph and Janice trinated John using a ceremonial beer stein. VMI. It was well run and very well attended went on. Jack and Joy will start in Berlin, All is well, and no one was hurt. by ’59 BRs, including Russ Orrison, Dick which excites Jack since this will be his first Buzz and Virginia Nowlin have been to Trandel, Bill Fuqua and Buzz Nowlin. visit to the great city. While on active duty several VMI baseball games, and the team From the briefings they received, it appears and years thereafter, Jack’s security clear- seems to be competitive. The new baseball Vision 2039 is doing well. They enjoyed ance prevented him from visiting or flying facilities are excellent, as are the rifle ranges lunch and an educational briefing from Col. over any territory under communist control. where they are qualifying the troops on Gibson ’77, director of the Museum System. After Berlin, they hop on a riverboat and AR15s. The museum continues to expand This was followed by an outstanding briefing make their way down the Elbe River, eventu- and contains a lot of new exhibits. They still from Lt. Col. Williams ’83, the Post engi- ally ending up in Budapest. Jack is overjoyed have Jackson’s raincoat and Little Sorrel, so neer, and a walk through the Third Barracks with the initial results of his new book, He- not everything is new. Buzz and Virginia are courtyard hosted by the commandant, Col roes in our Midst, the history of WWII U.S. still enjoying life in Hot Springs, VA. Trumps ’79. Next, they visited J.M. Hall airborne forces. It is selling like hotcakes, but Eve Trumpore enjoys keeping in touch where they were entertained by two cadets playing bag pipes, followed by a tour of the new museum. While viewing a mock up of a cadet room, an older grad – much older than either of them – looked at the sink and commented to John and Mike that the sinks looked too good to pee in. Others heard the comment, and they all laughed loud and long. Buzz asked Col. Trumps about bombs in the courtyard. The answer was, “We don’t talk about that.” A great visit to our Mecca. Max and Lee Ann Blanchard are proud grandparents. They recently attended the graduation of their two oldest grandsons from Class of 1959: Ann and Shep Shepard visited with Gen. Peay ’62, their grandthe University of Arizona. Go Wildcats!! son and grandniece while attending the Class Agents Conference. From left: Ralph and Janice Rae Lawson recently Ann Shepard, Loran Dreelin, Gen. Peay, Connor Shepard and Shep Shepard. flew into Berlin, Germany, before hopping 2013-Issue 3

CLASS NOTES with members of the Stonewall Class and informed of his feat was roommate George the nectar of the gods in Napa Valley is also appreciates receiving news about what ev- O’Neill, followed closely by his brother, in the offering. They plan to celebrate their eryone is up to. Eve doesn’t let moss grow Gene Martin ’58. Congratulations, Lon! 50th wedding anniversary, which comes under her feet. Over the past few years, she Bill and Susie Kirkland are doing well around next year in 2014, with a trip or event has twice done a riverboat cruise down the and recently spent some time in Destin, FL, in each of the 12 months of their anniversary Danube River, once with her daughter, and using their youngest son’s condo. The price year. They are working on their “anniversary would do another in a heartbeat. Eve has was right, so they jumped at the chance list” now, with the 55th Stonewall Class graciously signed on to help persuade all to spend a week on the beautiful northern Reunion the obvious entry for March. Any the widows to return for the 55th Reunion, Florida beaches, some of the most beautiful suggestions that would enhance Noland’s so you can be sure you will be hearing from in the world. and Mary’s “anniversary list” would be most her soon. Thanks in advance for your welcomed. help, Eve. Royall and Geri Geis spent a I recently spoke with Marti Strunk month in San Francisco, CA, last Butler, and things have not been that spring in a beautiful place overlookgood for her and Sturgis; both have ing the Golden Gate Bridge. Their suffered strokes this year. Marti had daughter, Stacey, lives in Burlinthe most serious, a hemorrhagic game, CA, and is a federal prosecustroke. Both are on the road to retor. She recently handled the major covery and are striving to get better, case involving a million gallon oil so they can attend our 55th Reunion. spill in the SF Bay. Her husband, Son Joel hopes to finish his movie, Peter, grew up in the same town “Anatomy of the Tide,” in time for that Royall did, Greenwich, CT, and the 2013 Sundance Film Festival. they have concluded that they probThe movie is set on a Maine Island ably went to the same bars in NYC, and stars Portland actor Daniel Noel. albeit a century apart. Peter loves to Joel, a tuna fisherman by day and a tell Royall that he went to the NEW screenwriter by night, made this feaGreenwich HS. He and Geri love ture length movie with a cast of stars him; he’s a great husband and father for under $1 million which he raised to their two grandchildren – Parker, all in the state of Maine from friends 12, and Hope, 10. Royall and Geri and family. The movie is about sexual have decided to bite the bullet and abuse on a Maine Island known for put their house on the market. They its lobstering tradition. It has been Class of 1959: Dick Phillippi enjoyed an afternoon are anxious to see what happens. described as a combination of the on his farm with his granddaughter, Leigh Beamer, Their house is in Clifton, VA, 25 who is astride Larry, the ex-racehorse, her best movies “Stand by Me” and “Mystic friend and companion. miles from the Pentagon, has 2.5 River.” We are pulling for Joel and acres of land, a six-stall barn and a hope he makes it to Sundance, but swimming pool and has been decomore important, we hope his movie is a Bud and Denyse Kramer are doing pretty rated by the talented Geri, Royall’s better huge success. good and recently spent an enjoyable week half for over 50 years. Anyone interested? Lon and Patty Martin are looking forward in Key West, FL. They rented a motel room Travel plans for Bill and Connie Nebraska to our 55th Class Reunion, the good Lord on the ocean with a magnificent view of the this summer include Ohio to visit number willing and the creek don’t rise, and why Gulf. Not long ago, Bud was in the hospital one son Paul and his family and then later not? Lon can’t wait to show the rest of the for a few days with a clogged artery in his to Vermont to visit number two son Todd class a thing or two about golf, having re- thigh. This makes it difficult for him to walk and his family. Bill is looking forward to cently made his first hole in one and shot his and even stand for long periods of time. The his annual fishing trips – first to Canada, age (75) both in the same round of golf. The CAT scan they took should tell the doctors planned for late September for salmon deed was done at Randolph Air Force Base where the clot is located and what type fishing, then back to Ohio in November for in San Antonio, TX, on the par 3 number 11 of surgery is required to correct it. Other steelhead fishing. hole – a 157-yard hole that he reached with than that, life continues to be good for the Bill and Yvonne Traylor visited Warrena seven wood. In the 60 years Lon has been Kramers. ton, VA, where they attended their daughter, playing golf, he has witnessed no less than Noland and Mary Pipes are doing great Elizabeth’s, 50th birthday party. Now, tell me eight aces, but none were his. Lon isn’t sure and are currently in the process of planning – doesn’t that make you feel a little over the if he is prouder of his first ace or the fact that visits to family in Bedford, Lynchburg and hill when your children are reaching retirehe recently celebrated his 52nd wedding Tappahannock this summer. A long awaited ment age? On the way home, they stopped by anniversary. To keep peace in the family, trip to northern California to visit Lake Richmond, where they had a nice long visit I would recommend the latter. First to be Tahoe, Yosemite National Park and sample with Mort Eggleston. Audrey was not there, 86

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1959: Baldy and Joanne Fall got their whole family together for this picture. From left, row 1: David Fall, Joanne, Baldy and Harrison Fall. Row 2: Suzanne Fall, Ryann Fall and Thayer Jones. Row 3: John Fall, Marti Fall, David Fall, Stephane Jones, Pete Jones and David Ott. Row 4: Alex Ott, Sydney Fall, Madelyne Ott and Christine Ott. Row 5: Lincoln Jones, David Fall and Nicholas Ott.

but she was enjoying herself tending her horse in the beautiful Virginia hunt country. Spence and Beverly Tucker have had a beautiful, although late, spring in Lexington this year. Beverly has just published a book through the Historic Lexington Foundation. It is called House on Fuller Street, and it weaves together oral histories of older African American residents of the Diamond Hill neighborhood of Lexington, many of whom had connections with VMI. The Tuckers keep on trucking. Ann and I took a great trip back to the Institute for the annual Class Agents Meeting. Before leaving Florida, we stopped by Yulee, FL, and spent a little time with Tex Carr. Tex, who attended his first reunion not long ago, is a believer and assures me he will not miss another. We might have created a monster, because Tex is coming up with more ideas than I can process. It is great to see Brother Rats so excited about the class, so keep it up, Tex. From Yulee, we made our way to Monroe, NC, where we visited with Bonnie Pomponio. Bonnie is doing well, albeit she is lonely for Art and likely will not attend our 55th Reunion. Hopefully, Bonnie will change her mind in the next year and join us for the festivities. The following day, we drove to Wytheville, VA, where we 2013-Issue 3

met up with Dick Phillippi. Dick was an impeccable host – Linda was visiting friends in Florida – and gave us an in depth tour of Wytheville. We enjoyed the rest of the day just lounging around his beautiful home, surrounded by magnificent mountains. We also had the pleasure of meeting his pride and joy, 17-year-old granddaughter Leigh Beamer, and her friend and companion, retired race horse Larry. Leigh is a junior in high school and a beautiful young lady. We left the next morning for VMI, where we presented Pat Webb with a going-away gift from the class and then attended a luncheon. We were fortunate to run into Van Trumpore ’89, Pete’s and Eve’s son, who is the VMI Alumni Association chapter representative for the Rocky Mountain Chapter. We had a great time talking about the Stonewall Class, and I quickly came to the conclusion that Van should be our honorary class agent, because he knows more details about our class than anyone I know. We spent the afternoon in workshops, and afterward, Ann and I retired to the PX where we met with Rogers McCall. Rogers was attending a meeting at his other alma mater, W&L, where he received his law degree. Rogers is doing great and anxious to get involved in the planning and preparation for our 55th Class Reunion. As

you will recall, Rogers was responsible for obtaining the red gym bags with the class logo on them at our 40th Reunion. Rogers has always been a strong supporter, despite the fact that he left after our second class year, because he could not pursue the career path he had chosen. Always good to see Rogers. That evening, the Foundation sponsored a dinner for the class agents and chapter presidents. Ann and I invited our grandson, Connor Shepard ’16, and our grandniece, Loran Dreelin ’16, to join us. Connor is the son of our oldest son, Phillip G. Shepard II ’83, while Loran is the daughter of Donnie Dreelin and Ann Dreelin Shepard’s brother’s son. We had a great time, and they were overwhelmed when Gen. Peay ’62 so generously took time to pose for a picture with them. That will be a picture they will treasure for life. I expect it gave them a little prestige among their classmates, as well. Ann and I had to leave early the next day in order to get to Richmond to have lunch with Phillip’s oldest son and our grandson, Phillip Shepard III, who is a senior at VCU. Following lunch, we drove to Lanexa, VA, where we joined Billy Kornegay for the 55th Stonewall Class Reunion Committee meeting. Also attending the meeting were Art Brandriff, Russ Orrison, Buzz Nowlin, Rusty Loth, Harlee Pate and Jim Vermillion. We had a very productive meeting with many issues resolved. It is shaping up to be one of our best reunions. Before leaving Lenexa and heading for Virginia Beach, I spoke with Jim Vermillion and promised to call him to set up a breakfast date prior to our return to Florida. We spent our evening enjoying the company of our son, Phillip ’83, and his family, but the next morning after church, I remembered I had promised Jim a call. I immediately phoned him, and receiving no answer, I left a message. Anxious to talk to him, a few minutes later I tried again. About a half hour after that, I received an irate call from Jim. Seems my first call caught him at the communion rail just as the priest was about to serve him a host. I think both Jim and Bet are required for the next two weeks to wear their cell phones around their necks with a placard that reads, “I will always ensure that my cell phone is silenced when in church.” We did mend fences the next morning at breakfast, so all is well with the Vermilions and Shepards. Once again, I would like to remind you 87

CLASS NOTES that the Stonewall Class will celebrate its 55th Reunion on 24-25 March 2014. Mark that date on your calendar with big red letters. Keep those cards, e-mails and letters coming in. Yours in the Spirit, Shep

’60

L. Edward Tolley

If you didn’t read the excellent article titled “Legacy of Valor in the Air” written by Bolling Williamson in the 2013-Issue 2 of the VMI Alumni Review, you should do it now. I have drawn attention to past articles by Bolling, and this one follows the theme of war stories, some possibly old hat with Brother Rats, that must be exhumed from the bowels of the basement archives, which older and newer alums enjoy reading. Bolling’s articles are real life stories that allow one to understand the origin of the reputation that VMI men have created through their unique performance in war and peace. There are so many very interesting stories that need to be heard if one desires to really know VMI. Interestingly, Bolling has been doing his thing on his own without prompting from anyone. No contract. No urging. No pay. You who have ever gone into files searching for the facts know that time can fly when one thing or one man leads to another. Bolling plans to do an article next year coinciding with the seventieth anniversary of the D-Day landing that tells the story of a half dozen or more VMI men who participated. Good job, and keep on doing your thing Brother Rat. Joe Sisler, his daughter, Darla, her husband, Hap and Mary Miller, Jim French, and I had supper and visited as one of Joe Sisler’s grandsons, Carter Ray, attended the visitor’s weekend at the Institute back in March. He, Carter, is a high school junior and is in his search for the next step forward. Like his grandpa, Carter is a good golfer. Bananas and Joe Stewart are trying to settle on a round of golf. Ella and Joe have a good routine of walking and are both doing well. Jim French, Bill Spicuza, George Salaita, GG Phillips, Hap Miller and I had lunch at the Southern Inn recently. Bill, who now lives in Irvington, VA, (down on the Chesa88

peake) had made a business trip to Charlottesville; George was doing some research on Thomas Jefferson for his American history students; GG had a meeting at the Institute; and Hap, Jim and I had a break in our packed schedules (yuk, yuk). We all had a bite, ice tea, told some stories and enjoyed the good weather after a lot of rain. Everyone looked good, and there were no canes. Bill King called from Missouri City, TX, to invite me to play a round of golf later this summer when I make my trip to Lockhart. Bill and Joan are comfortable in the Houston, TX, area enjoying retirement and family. One of Bill’s hobbies is magic. I want to see him turn one of my $1s into a $1000. You may recall that a VMI man, Richard “Dic” Donohue ’02, was shot in the thigh in Watertown, MA, by one of the Boston marathon bombing terrorists. The bullet severed three major veins, and he lost a significant amount of blood. He is recovering and has gained his energy and enthusiasm. Donations to a fund for his family can be made to: Richard Donohue, Care of Conor Evans, 4516 Lovers Lane, #311, Dallas, Texas, 75225. Conor Evans ’02 is Donohue’s Brother Rat and is managing the fund for Dic. It has been reported that VMI is on a short list of schools that may join the NCAA Southern Conference, as two schools are departing it. You recall that VMI was a charter member of the SoCon and was the oldest member when we left some five years or so back. The spring Class Agents Conference held April 19th was a combined meeting of class agents and alumni chapter leaders from across America that allowed discussions of where we can be beneficial to both entities. The main thrust of the local chapters of the

Alumni Association is cadet recruitment, while Class Agents focus on communication with class members and fund raising. I encourage you to become active in your local chapter, as you are able. A sample of information distributed at the conference included tuition and fees costs for 2012-13 year: in-state $21,568, out-of-state $41,544. The Operating Budget is $72.5 million. Of that, 12.3 million are state general funds, $37.7 million are cadet tuition/fees, $16.9 million are private local funds and $5.6 million are other. There are 530 employees that receive $41 million in payroll and benefits. There are 21,434 living alumni. Of that number, 15% are career military. Private funding, i.e. alumni, faculty, staff, parents, friends, as well as trustees, officers and staff of the VMI Alumni Agencies, provide 23% of the Institute’s budget. The VMI Endowment is $300,371,967 as of June 30, 2012, managed by the VMI Foundation. There are 59 buildings on 200 acres valued at $500 million. There are 1,664 cadets in the Corps, 58.5% from Virginia. There are 508 matriculants in the class of 2016. Curriculum choices are App. Math – 6, Biology – 48, Chem. – 19, CE – 55, Comp. Sci. – 14, Econ. & Bus. – 63, EE – 16, English – 7, History – 49, Int’l Studies – 94, ME – 91, Mod. Language – 10, Physics – 11 and Psychology – 25.There are 45 states and 10 foreign countries represented. ROTC is required by all cadets, and 50% accept a commission (optional) in the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force or Marine Corps. 97% of the teaching faculty has a Ph.D., and class sections are 11.5:1 ratio, cadets to teacher. VMI fall semester is August to December; spring semester is mid-January to mid-May. The VMI Post is 100% network wired, and all academic

Class of 1960: From left; G.G. Phillips, Bill Spicuzza, Ed Tolley, Hap Miller, Jim French and George Salaita.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES buildings have wireless coverage. Note that $16.9 million is provided by you and me and other generous givers! The class of ’60 has 215 on our list of solicitable men. We have inched up to the upper fifties in percentage participation in the past couple years. At the end of the third quarter 2013, we had 80 donors. My goal is at least 115 for the year. Consider the value you place on your VMI education and experience and your desire to perpetuate that opportunity for future generations, and please participate as you are able. Thanks, Brother Rats. Rah VA Mil

’61

Sal Vitale Jr.

Preparing these notes for this issue of the Review has been a challenge. First, the mending of my shoulder replacement, rotator cuff and muscle repairs has been slow, and returning to normal functions like typing is still difficult. Add to that preparing for interior house repairs and painting have kept me away from the computer. Couple all of the above with several busy months of travel and Brother Rat functions, the Review deadline is here. So, stop complaining, Sal, and on with the news. During our 40th Reunion, Stu Crow suggested that we include golf as part of our special events and reunion activities. Golf has gone viral. The class golfers and nongolfers are using the golf outings as a way of bringing our Brother Rats together, and they have! In February, Bob Polk arranged for golf at the Arnold Palmer Legends course in Orange Lake, FL (near Disney World). In attendance were Bob and Bronnie Polk, Stu and Lee Crow, Bob and Suellen Reitz, Spike and Mary Callander, “JC” Miller, Jim Miner, Jud McLester and Don Wilkinson. This was the fourth time for this outing, and it gets better every time. Bob Polk invited Graham King as a member guest to Bob’s club for a tournament. I wonder if the golfers playing with these BRs knew that Graham’s golf handicap was 2. (Smile) March came quickly, and Larry and Jerri Wetsel and Paul and Debbi Johnston were on the VMI Alumni Association sailing trip; 2013-Issue 3

they had a wonderful time. The Wetsels (always on the move) visited Jupiter, FL, where they had dinner with Graham and Leola King. Battle Haslam ventured to NYC to attend Don Wilkinson’s black tie birthday party, and I was told that it was a smashing event! Battle Haslam is overjoyed that his grandson, Wynn Haslam, was accepted Class of 1961: Dining at Mr. P’s Bistro in by VMI and will be a Rat in the Southport, NC, on March 22, 2013, were, from left, Kent Modine, John Gangemi, Dickey Stone class of 2017. Bill and Danya and Kenneth Ayala. Redd attended the “Old Corps” Luncheon in March at VMI. Bill said there were about 90 folks and as far back as 1943.The Bissells, Harold Kurstedt and Ed Duncan ’60 also attended. It was nice to learn that Ken Ayala is getting out and had dinner with Kent and Bert Modine, John and Irene Gangemi, and Dickey and Di Stone at Mr. P’s Bistro in Southport, NC. Ken is volunteering to help in VMI chapter work. Ken and Sue Patrick traveled Class of 1961: Having breakfast at the Origito McDonough, GA, for Ken’s nal Pancake House in Marietta, GA, on April 21, 2013, were, from left, Ken Patrick, David great-nephew’s wedding and Bradley ’92 and Jim Harrison. came home through Marietta, GA, where they visited with Jim and “MC” Harrison. For breakfast, the Col. Gibson and discuss your medals with four went to The Original Pancake House him. Don also told me that his son, Sgt Len owned by David Bradley ’92. After being Rishell, was in the same unit and acted as in Da Nang 10 years, Mitch and Jennifer the RTO for Col. Bill Powell (deceased) Kot will be returning to America at the many times on missions. On the night of end of 2013. Mitch says the hardest part of BR Powell’s last mission, Len Rishell was living in Da Nang was missing friends and with the BN XO on another bird that didn’t family. The Kot’s will be back in America crash. Again, what a small world, isn’t it? for a two-week visit sometime in May to Bill Hala still thinks he is 16. After not mid-August with 42 Vietnamese business- doing any alpine skiing for two years, Bill men in tow. Mitch was invited to a reception ventured out on a trail he cut and took a nasty aboard a naval ship docked in Da Nang. On fall while following his son, Wendell, down board, Mitch was talking to a young officer a steep slope. Bill damaged his shoulder and and asked him where he went to school. He had a mild concussion. Since then, he has answered, Magno ’07, sir. Small world, become more cautious. Larry and Joanne isn’t it? An addition to the Hall of Valor Respess took a three-week trip to Turkey, from our class is Don Rishell. Col. Gibson Greece and the UK to celebrate their 50th ’77 reviewed Don’s DD 214 and concluded wedding anniversary. In Turkey and Greece, his decorations entitled him to a place with they had a private car with a driver and guide. other distinguished BRs. The decorations The scenery and cultural sites made each day were added just before Christmas 2012 an adventure. Istanbul and Athens were the and on the same day as Fred Stephenson high spots. On the way back, they stopped off (previously reported). I understand there in the UK for a few days. The trip was great. may be other BRs whose medals should be Honey and Marilynne Tarrall love to hike in added, and if you think you should be, call the red rock country of southern Utah. Their 89

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1961: Attending the 16th Annual Military Ball on March 22, 2013, at the Stonewall Jackson Conference Center in Staunton, VA, were, seated, from left, George Henning, Edgar Hollowell and Bobby Ross ’59. Standing, from left, were Lee Badgett, Wyatt Durrette, Sal Vitale and Mike Bissell.

last trip to the Zion National Park and the climb up to the Upper Emerald Pool and The Wave in the Coyote Buttes Permit Area of the Vermillion Cliffs Wilderness were great. The Tarralls said we all have a standing invite for a guided tour by them at anytime to the Zion National Park and to The Wave, provided the group is chosen in the lottery for the limited 20 people slots a day. If not successful, there are plenty of other hiking options; any takers? The Youngbloods enjoyed a week boating in the Caribbean with the children. Dick had a great time keeping

the 48-foot twin screw power boat upright in six-foot seas. In a recent conversation with Hugh Gouldthorpe, he said that he is back in shape and playing tennis regularly. As a matter of fact, he believes that he can beat Howard Dyer, and Howard says he can give Booty Farleigh a shellacking, which logically means that Gouldthorpe can take Farleigh. Talk is cheap, so I suggested that, at a VMI home football weekend, we duke it out. Harrison Fridley volunteered to arrange for a tennis court. So, what say Hugh, Howard and Booty? Alison Drescher

finished the wounded warriors’ bike run from Washington, D.C., to Gettysburg, MD. Sue and I attended the Virginia Woman’s Institute for Leadership (VWIL) 16th Annual Military Ball at Mary Baldwin College. The guest speaker was Bobbie Ross’59, and I had not heard him speak before. Bobbie gave a great speech on leadership. In attendance at the ball were George and Edna Henning, Ed and Phyllis Hollowell, Lee and Betsey Badgett, Wyatt Durrette, Sal and Sue Vitale, and Mike and Jan Bissell. Lee Badgett and Wyatt Durrette were appointed to a newly formed board of advisors for VWIL to help grow the Corps to 200 strong. The VMI Commanders, under the direction of Col. John Brodie (Hon.), played dance music, and we had a nice evening. The next day, we attended the parade and awards ceremony. Sue and I took two weeks in St. Maarten and enjoyed the pool therapy and the sun. We returned home in time to attend the Virginia Historical Society Garden party with Bill and Joyce Gibbings. Also attending were Charlie and Cammie Bryan ’69, and Charlie looked well. The next trip was to Southport, NC, for the annual spring golf outing. Neither Ray Hanlein nor I played golf; we compared shoulder repairs and exercises and threw the ball for Ray’s dog. The weather was just OK, and we had a great turnout of golfers, bridge players and those who elected quiet time in order to read or walk on the sand. For Friday early arrivals, we met for supper at a local fish house. Saturday night, we had heavy hors d’oeuvres prepared by Bert Modine

Class of 1961: At the annual Oak Island golf outing at Caswell Dunes Clubhouse on May 5, 2013, in Southport, NC, were, from left, front row, Harrison Fridley, Sal Vitale, Richard Youngblood, Kent Modine, Robert Reitz, Robert Callander, Paul Johnston, George Henning and “JC” Miller. Back row: John Gangemi, Hugh Gouldthorpe, Michael Pitt ’60, Ray Hanlein, Jud McLester, Graham King, Robert Polk, John Butler, Robert Burks, Stuart Crow, Charles Alligood, Dude Copenhaver, Heriot Clarkson and Dickey Stone.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1961: Attending the funeral service for George Van Orden in Midlothian, VA, on April 26, 2013, were, from left, front row, Floyd Farleigh, David Harbach, Sal Vitale, Heriot Clarkson, J. Daniels, William Nelms, Dick Weede and Russ Stone. Back row: William Gibbings, Dennis Curtis, Richard Jarvis, George Henning, Oscar Mabry, Bill Phillips, Richard Youngblood, Willard Hoskins, Wyatt Durrette, Charles Fuller, Larry Williams, Ed Fox and Philip Orndorff.

and an outstanding smoked salmon prepared by Ray Hanlein. For desert, Di Stone made her famous rum cake. No one left hungry. The dinner Sunday night was at the Caswell Dunes with hors d’oeuvres prepared by Di Stone, and Ray Hanlein provided another smoked salmon. The meal was catered, and the tables were decorated with VMI items provided by Bert Modine. The flowers were arranged by Suellen Reitz. Again, no one left hungry or thirsty. Those in attendance included: Harrison and Terry Fridley, Sal and Sue Vitale, Dick and Judy Youngblood, Kent and Bert Modine, Bob and Suellen Reitz, Spike and Mary Callander, Paul Johnston, George and Edna Henning, “JC” Miller, John and Irene Gangemi, Hugh and Nelle Gouldthorpe, Mike and Betty Pitt ’60, Ray and Sally Hanlein, Jud McLester, Graham King, Bob and Bronnie Polk, John and Linda Butler, Bob and Jeannie Burks, Stu and Lee Crow, Bud Alligood and his friend, Peggy Hayes, Dude and Kathy Copenhaver, Rhett and Jan Clarkson, and Dickey and Di Stone. Also attending the golf outing and playing golf were Henry Brown ’60, John Schmidt ’58, Jimbo and Ruth Smith ’60, and Don Walker ’58. Jud McLester is looking good and in wrestling shape and is enjoying being back with the Brothers. This event has grown, thanks to the efforts of BRs Stone and Copenhaver, and the food arrangements and decorations are outstanding, due to Di and Bert, with help from other attendees. The trip for Sue and me 2013-Issue 3

will be the outing in May at Youngblood’s for the Richmond BRs and, after that, the Shuba roast in June. I always manage to invite myself to these events, and you will have to wait for next issue to see who came. Mike Bissell’s last stroke affected his eyes. Mike believes he can no longer give his all to the VWIL program, and therefore, the time has come for this hero to retire. The president of Mary Baldwin College, Mrs. Fox, sent out a letter to the VWIL and the MBC community which reads, in part: “For 18 years, Brig. Gen. Michael Bissell has served Mary Baldwin College as commandant of cadets for Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership. In partnership with VWIL founding director, the late Dr. Brenda L. Bryant, VWIL grew from an audacious idea into a premiere leadership program for women, fostering military and civilian lives of global citizenship and purpose. We honor and thank Gen. Bissell for being an enduring exemplar of leadership and service. We are grateful that he is currently recovering from a stroke and regaining his eyesight that was temporarily lost as a result, enabling him to continue at MBC on a temporary basis. At this point, Gen. Bissell has determined that he will begin his transition toward retirement. We need and value Gen. Bissell’s ongoing wisdom and guidance, so he will be named founding commandant emeritus upon the appointment of the new commandant. In this capacity, he will work in support of his successor and as liaison with Staunton

Military Academy alumni, the newly formed VWIL Board of Advisors, and other key external constituencies.” We all know how hard Mike worked, and his successor will need big shoes, a very strong work ethic and a dedication like Mike has demonstrated for the VWIL Corps to grow. Join me in wishing Mike and Jan a healthy and happy retirement and VWIL continued great success. It isn’t often that I get a letter from an alumnus complaining about my lack of inclusion of Brother Rats in the class notes. Mr. Walter Galliford ’44 wanted to know why our BR Larry Williams, one of the “greatest mile runner[s] in the world in his day,” never has anything written about him. Well, Mr. Galliford, Larry is still working as an owner/vice president/electrical engineer at his firm Vansant and Gusler in Norfolk, VA. Thanks to Charlie Fuller, Larry was recently yanked out of his hole and brought to Bill Gibbings’ house for beer and cookies. Larry likes the environment at Gibbings and promises to be more visible. Larry is in good health and doesn’t run the mile anymore. Those who attend beer and cookies know that Dogfish Head Brewery of Milton, DE, is served, and in recognition of the amount of beer consumed on Friday nights by the VMI crowd, Dogfish Head Brewery has now crafted a beer called “Sixty One.” Mark Carter ’96 is the marketer for the brewery, and if you consume enough, maybe they will craft a beer for you. This last quarter has not been good to our 91

CLASS NOTES class. First, we lost John Purner on March7, 2013, in Daytona Beach, FL. BR Dave Magee visited with him about 30 minutes before he died but never had a chance to talk to John, because the nurses requested that he leave the room. When Class President Wyatt Durrette learned of John’s death, Wyatt said, “He was a tough guy. I don’t think I could have done his Rat year.” Ed Tolley ’60 recalled, “John was two or three days late matriculating, thus he didn’t get the orientation all the other Rats received. I was exiting Barracks between the Sallie Port and Jackson Arch when John Purner came stumbling by, not in the Ratline and obviously not knowing where the hell he was or how to get there. I stopped John, and I immediately realized that he was lost. His big thick glasses were fogged up, he was sweating and his Yankee accent was a bit amusing to me. I had him relax and defined the Ratline to him and gave him a few pointers on how to get to his room with the least risk of us terrible thirds descending on him. He was my friend from then on. He nicknamed me ‘Da Babba’ when he learned that I gave haircuts in my room and also worked in the barber shop during free CPs. Good man, dat Yankee.” We all remember stories about John, and most of all, he was persistent and graduated with the class. John was cremated and his ashes placed in Memorial Garden by the Purner family, John Jr., “JC” his grandson and Lisa, his daughter-in-law on May 15. Brother Rats attending were: Mike and Jan Bissell, Mike and Betty Pitt ’60, Jim Berger, David Harbach, Sal Vitale, Bill Gibbings, Larry Wetsel, Harrison Fridley, Jim Oliver, Ed Hollowell, Bev Scott, Ed Fox, Lou Kiger, Tom Phlegar, and Chaplin Parks. It was a beautiful day and a wonderful service. “Taps” was played by Cadet Gray. John’s son and grandson placed the ashes, and the BRs gave an “Old Yell.” Then, we lost George Van Orden on Saturday, March 30, due to injuries from an automobile accident a few days before. George and Marina were hit broadside on Midlothian Parkway, VA, by a youth being chased by the state police. George died in the hospital, due to lots of internal injuries. George Jr. arranged for a memorial service at Bennett Funeral Home, in Chesterfield, VA, and it was well attended by Marines and distinguished shooters from all over the country. Our class was well represented, and those 92

in attendance included: Booty Farleigh, Dave Harbach, Sal and Sue Vitale, Rhett Clarkson, Bill Daniels, Bill Nelms, Dick and Ann Weede, Russ Stone, Bill Gibbings, Dennis and Jerry Curtis, Dick Jarvis, Oscar Mabry, Bill Phillips, Dick and Judy Youngblood, Willard Hoskins, Wyatt and Monica Durrette, Charles Fuller, Larry Williams, Ed Fox, and Barry and Elizabeth Orndorff. It was a nice service, and we did give George an “Old Yell.” The date for his interment at Arlington is not known and, from what I heard, will be before you read these notes. George’s wife sustained injuries to several parts of her body and recently had her ankle reconstructed and is at home. Marina does not know many BRs or wives, and we need find a way to make her feel comfortable; suggestions are welcome. What a shock it was to learn that Karl Zick passed away on April 18, 2013. Karl has been in and out of the hospital for the past two months and was in rehab and doing well. The cause of death was a stroke or massive heart attack as he was heading to the lavatory. They tried to revive him, but his heart was too weak. Walt Kleine ’64 was with Mollie when Karl passed away, and Mollie was not sure she would have made it without him. A flag ceremony was held at the church by the AF Honor Guard, and Mollie said you could hear a pin drop as it was being performed. After that, those in attendance went outside, and the AF Honor Guard presented a 21-gun salute with “Taps” at the end. It was so moving! Mollie said thank you for the cards, calls and flowers, and this spoke volumes for Karl’s Brother Rats. No one from the class was at the funeral. May our three Brother Rats rest in peace! I hope we do not lose any more Brother Rats. When BRs get together nowadays, we talk about the old times, interesting vacations, family and what aliment(s) is current making life a challenge. I find that discussing ailments and treatments can lead to solutions for yourself or spouse. I know that Ken Patrick’s accolades about how good Cleveland Clinic is convinced me to take Sue there for treatment, and it has helped her. So from my point of view, publishing the Gim list has the potential for helping others or at least letting you know that you are not the only one having difficulties. Again, I ask you to consider including in your prayers

the Brother Rats and spouses mentioned as of May 14, 2013. My shoulder replacement, repairs and rehab are doing well. Ray Hanlein is doing well from his rotator cuff and muscle shoulder repairs. We compare progress every few day to see how high we can raise our arms. Stu Woodcock’s hip went well, and Stu is in rehab. Lee Badgett is going to have his third hip replacement on May 16, so results will be known in the next notes. Jack Bell is still taking it easy after his heart attack. Kent Modine’s knee surgery went well, and Kent played golf in Southport. Sleepy Hollowell is back in rehab and hopes to get stronger so he can walk again. Ann Woodfin is coming along slowly. There are still issues with the brain tumor. Bill Keech is still going to Johns Hopkins for treatment. I talked to him, and he sounds strong. I hear that the Keeches may be relocating back East to be near the family and the treatment center. George Ward’s doctors told him to forget flying anywhere, and his great hopes of the back surgery he had in 2011 fixing him did for a while, but now the stenosis has progressed in other places in his spine, and he is no longer a candidate for surgery; they are now trying shots to the spine. Doug Popp had an aortic valve replaced (cow type) and a triple bypass to boot. Now, he is in the recuperation and physical therapy phase. Doug is back to work at about 75 percent, attempting to play “catch up.” His children are up in arms with his return so soon, and especially since Doug lost two roommates, George Van Orden and Karl Zick. Roger Suiter had a stroke, and fortunately, Sherrill got him to the Carolinas Medical Center in a short period of time. Roger’s stroke was classified as a mild stroke. A blood thinner, a heartbeat regulating agent and a strict diet were ordered. Roger asked if anyone has any tips about how to endure this regimen, and he is ready to listen. Walter Stokes’ wife, Anne, had a stroke, and there was no permanent paralysis the first time. As I was preparing these notes, she was admitted to the hospital again, and I have no update. As I mentioned before, Mike Bissell’s eyesight was affected as a result of another stroke. They say it was minor, if any strokes are minor, and his eyesight, as of these notes, has partially returned. Bob Reitz is doing great after his congestive heart failure. Now, if he loses a little weight, he will be even VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES better (Smile). Ed Fox looks good after his open heart surgery. Ed is a little thin but in good humor. Ed said that John Purner had called him to learn about the heart operation as part of John’s due diligence. You never know how routine surgeries will turn out. Don Rishell did not make golf in Southport due to problems from kidney stones. To prevent infection, Don’s doctor gave him some heavy antibiotics and said no travel. Larry Respess called Roy Schall and said Roy was coping very well with his liver condition, and Roy was planning to go on the Class Cruise in March 2014. Roy’s determination to live without a liver replacement is a good example of mind over matter and prayers. Roy, according to the doctors a few years ago, should not be with us, and he is. Clayton Smith’s son, Jeff, and wife Rachel are undergoing chemo for serious cancer. Rachel was recently diagnosed, and we hope Clayton stays strong. My roommate, Carl Hirsch, seems to be clean from his cancer, but my other two roomies, Lou Grazulis and Floyd Roberts, are not. Chemo was leaving Lou very weak and with lots of side effects. Lou is frustrated, but on the brighter side, his doctor said that his last endoscopy showed that the tumor is beginning to shrink, and they will stop chemo for a while. Floyd has been volunteering for all kinds of cancer regimens, with the latest being a Medtronic intrathecal pump implant, and everything went well, no complications. The doctor said because of Floyd’s situation, they were omitting the trial and putting the morphine pump right in. Floyd hopes this will help with the pain which is all over his spine and body and is excruciating. When I talk to him, he sounds strong and determined to make the best of what is left of his life and also has outlasted all the doctors’ prognosis for the future. Sue Wells, Bill Daniels, Hugh and Nelle Gouldthorpe, and Ken Patrick are doing very well and look great. Others still coping include Henry Huntsberry, Jan Hartman, Charles Manly, Rita Huneycutt and Mike Payne. There are many more BRs and spouses who are plagued with illness or other problems and are in need of your prayers, and I hope you will join me in praying for them. The 11-day, 2014 Celebrity Cruise on the Celebrity Equinox (number 6535432) is moving forward for March 24, 2014. 2013-Issue 3

To date we have 21 cabins spoken for. It is not too late to book an accommodation. So, if you want to go, call Beth Folic at Mann Travel and Cruises, 3339 Pineville Matthews Road, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC 28226; phone: 704/541-0943 ext. 225 or 800/366-7671 ext. 225. Should you have a friend who wants to accompany you, the cabin rates and all savings and perks will also apply to them. We always have a great time, so don’t be left behind. Pat Webb of the VMI Foundation retired at the end of June, and Pat will be missed by me. Pat was very helpful during our 50th Reunion and has always been available to me when I needed something to be done for the class. If you didn’t know he was a Texas Aggie, you would think he was a VMI man. Good luck in your retirement, and thanks for all you have done for the Brother Rats of 1961. That is it for now. Stay well, pray for our ill Brother Rats and spouses, and please, God, bless the U.S.A., our troops, VMI and the 1961 Brother Rats. If you can swing it, God, help my Bother Rats to remember to read their e-mails. Amen. (Smile)

Tony Curtis

’62

Jerry Burnett

As of this writing in May 2013, the good news is that no Brother Rats have departed since the last class notes. We’d really appreciate it if you all would try and keep this up! The next great news is Judy’s continual recovery from her pancreatic cancer surgery and that our grandson, Alex George, was just accepted by VMI and will begin this summer with a program that lets the “Ratsto-be” take introductory classes, get used to where all the buildings are, begin wearing a uniform, etc., without a third straining them. (That will come all too soon – do you remember when?) BR Dr. Gerald C. Burnett just became the very first dermatologist in the state of Virginia to join DermaOne Dermatology Centers. Jerry will continue to provide medi-

cal and surgical dermatology services but with additional resources and management services provided by DermaOne. Check out the details at DermaOne.com. (Look for the Virginia website.) Butch Armistead writes that he finally retired in December ’12 as the chief scientist for Rapiscan Laboratories (airport and seaport security business). In 2004, Rapiscan bought his company, ARACOR, and he committed to stay for three years as the CEO of one of their groups. He intended to retire earlier, but like several of you, he was having too much fun! He is still involved on several boards, including being the chair of the board of trustees of a school that is in an expansion plan. Like most of us, Butch is now busier as a “retiree” – more golf and trying to keep up with his beautiful wife, Mona, who was named by their Los Altos paper as the “Los Altan of the Year”! They love to travel, and in 2011 took a trip around the world – nine countries in 26 days. In Jaipur, India, he played “elephant polo.” Butch and Mona visited his roomie, Walter Perrin, in Atlanta and plan on joining them at his beach house in Pawleys Island, and Walt and Mary plan to visit them in July. (Butch’s new e-mail is bob.armistead@gmail.com.) Ed Northrop says he and Joan celebrated their 50th anniversary in beautiful Santa Fe, NM. He’s still enjoying work, golf and watching grandchildren play baseball, softball and soccer. In the spare time, there’s a lot of bridge and yard work. Bill and Christa Harris have been “cruising” again, this time to Montréal and up the St. Lawrence to Boston last August. Christa and daughter went solo to the Caribbean in February. Next cruise will be in December, 30 days, from San Diego to Hawaii to the South Pacific and back to San Diego. Christa will celebrate the 31st anniversary of her 39th birthday in Maui, HI. Our class athlete, BR Don Arey, just did another “modified” triathlon – a friend did the running part, and Don did the swim and bike portions. The next day, he did a 100-mile bike ride out of Flagler, FL, a ride he does every year. Don is not boasting; he knows he’s fortunate to be able to continue to do the stuff he still likes to do and that it is a gift from God that can be taken back at any time. Tom and Donna Bandy visited Don and Ellen, and they report Tom looks great! 93

CLASS NOTES Bill and Madonna Fisher also He’s sorry for missing our 50th like to travel and, last fall, went Reunion because of illness but to Marrakech, Morocco. (Look plans to return to VMI in the THAT up on Google!) They then future. spent Christmas/New Years in Jim Richards, realizing that Prior Lake, MN (near Minnespring had finally sprung on apolis) with their oldest son and the Blue Ridge, ventured down youngest grandson’s family. On to the Institute for an “Old to Key West, Ft. Meyers Beach Corps Luncheon” in Marshal and Sun City Center for a 40Hall, hosted by the Alumni day excursion and home to visit Association. He reports that Donna’s 98-year-old mother and it was a good program with her brother and family in Sylvapresentations by the direcnia (next to Toledo), OH. tor of the Museum System, Cal and Anne Lloyd paid their the construction guru and the occasional “highland fling” visit commandant. The $200-plus to The Villages, FL, for the openmillion construction program is ing of the third and final “entermind-boggling! Exceptionally tainment center,” Brownwood well designed and executed, in Paddock, where they caught up Class of 1962: Bill Fisher in a Moroccan market. Note his view. (Why don’t some of with Tony Curtis. (The Villages the VMI hat. you “Virginians” go take a look, is now 100,000-plus and the 10th and give us YOUR updated largest community in Florida! opinion?) The commandant The Curtis cottage is open to all gave an outstanding insider’s – just call so we can fit you in!) view of what it’s like to run a Their dancing season is winding 1,500-strong Corps of Keydets. down, and in June, they’ll attend Our class was well-represented, Anne’s 50th at St. Lawrence with the highest attendance of University in upstate New York, ANY class: Wayne Pacine, returning via Toronto and DancMark Graybill, Jerry Wagner, ing in the Park. In August, they’ll Columbus Cartwright, Larry tour the Scottish Highlands and Wilson, Joe Weakley and Jim! Islands, ending with the famous (Thanks for the report!) Edinburgh Tattoo. (Why are some Ran (Hams) Hammer has of you still sitting around on your finally moved to his long-time assets, when there is still so much dream house on two acres in to go out and see?!) the woods in the North Carolina Fred and Jeannie Sullivan celcountry! He spent a couple ebrated their 50th anniversary on of nights at his sister’s “Dog April 20, 2013, at their new home House Farm” before the van arin Bradenton, FL. In December rived and is very excited about 2011, they purchased a mobile opening a new chapter in his home in Bradenton and became life. A part of him will always snow birds. In the spring of 2012, Class of 1962: Bill and Madonna Fisher at Fort Myers be in Milwaukee with 35 years Fred became ill with urinary Beach, FL, in December 2012. of family memories and dear tract infections and spent several friends, and he’ll go back to months in Florida, had prostate Michigan games! New address surgery in July and then returned to Pennsyl- have no lines! Since retiring in 1998, they is 1305 Still Brook Place, Hillsborough, vania. In December, he had a second prostate have moved from Lugoff, SC, to Danville, NC 27278; cell 414/731-1231 and e-mail surgery with some skin tissues showing VA, then Myrtle Beach, SC, and then to hams62@hotmail.com. There’s LOTS of cancer. In January through March this year, West Grove, PA, their primary residence. room, so the door’s open to all BRs! He is he underwent radiation treatments. They Son David (’88) and his wife, Satomi, have close to D.C. where his children live and returned to Florida in April and hope to stay their four grandkids in nearby Hockessin, has family and friends in Chapel Hill, so until July again. May and June are the best DE. Fred and Jeannie love the west coast of it felt just like coming back home! In the months in Florida, because most of the snow Florida with the evening breeze and being first weekend in May, he went with his son, birds have gone north and the restaurants close to Tampa and Sarasota for sightseeing. Christopher (40 years old – Dartmouth), to 94

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 1962: At John Candler’s wedding, from left, Hams Hamner, J.R. Dunkley, Kristine and John, and Bob Mitchell.

see him run in his 17th Pittsburgh Marathon. Hams was the designated watcher/cheer leader/bills picker upper. He continues with details of John Candler’s wedding to his “runner” for the 50th Reunion, Kristine Fink. She is so knockout and fun! Bob and Nancy Mitchell and Carol and J.R. Dunkley joined to represent the class of ’62! They stayed in the guest house of the Music Academy and enjoyed a great rehearsal dinner with lots of family from both sides. Candler was wincing as the stories rolled out about his escapades with the “Virginia Gentlemen” Brother Rats crowd. Apparently, they had all been thrown out of some of the finest hotels along the East Coast! De Worrell, Dick Willard and other BRs names came up several times in

Class of 1962: Mike Lilge circa 1958.

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TX. They named him “Bullet” (Rat Bible?) and as expected, he has taken over their lives. He calls Bullet his four-legged son, who clings to him like Velcro. They are now into competitive dog agility trials, which helps keep Wayne in shape (?). Speaking again of weddings, Lewis Graybill finally writes that he and Dottie were married in a small ceremony in J.M. Hall on Aug. 18, 2012. In attendance were her daughter, his daughter, her niece, great nephew and niece, and the preacher. The ceremony ended just in time to watch the new Rat class march up from Cameron Hall and into the Barracks! (Welcome to VMI and its traditions, Dottie!) Once again, lovely Kate Bobbitt is back in business as priest-in-charge at Trinity Episcopal Church, Portsmouth, VA – at least until August. Rosser said that a parishioner is Frank Kirby ’41, and I will send his photo on to the ’41 class agent. Good ‘ole “Cowsnclay” Marcus Muth found some undeveloped 35mm film (Do any of you have this?) that turned out to be 55 years old and had some of his military school photos in it – two of his Rat roomies, Jack Rowell in uniform with a different cap device and Mike Lilge in his brand new coatee. (Don’t these just warm the cockles of your heart?) That’s it for now, folks. PLEASE continue to send us your summer fun and adventure notes and photos. Remember ALL photos will now be put into a class of ’62 album for our 55th Reunion on April 24-25, 2017!

the conversations. The church was packed on Saturday, and the reception involved a couple hundred of the couple’s closest friends, more food and drinks than the Pine Room and a dynamite band! The highlight of the evening had to be when the class of ’62 continued the “gatoring” tradition on the dance floor, and they were all still able to get up! Hams talks with Carolyn Worrell by phone all the time, and she keeps up to date about the Institute. The annual De Worrell Memorial Hand Ball Tournament was in the middle of April, and Carolyn and her family hosted over 40 players. I believe this is the 19th straight year for this wonderful event to honor and remember De. Wayne Pacine continues to work in D.C. at the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. He hopes to join his retired BRs one of these days but really enjoys his job and has never worked harder! He still does a lot of business traveling all over the world and represents the Fed at so many venues (way to go, BR!). Wayne still goes skeet/trap shooting every weekend and enjoys beating the guys half his age. Two years ago, Jolin and Wayne purchased a miniature French poodle Class of 1962: Rosser and Kate Bobbitt with Frank Kirby ’41, seated. from a breeder in Austin,

CLASS NOTES Note: In the last class notes, Dan Prall’s e-mail address was listed as dan@riverdan. name. That is incorrect. His correct address is: dan@diverdan.name. In the Spirit, Tony and Jerry

’63

Michael J. Curley

WHAT A 50th REUNION! I honestly don’t know how this reunion could have been any better. The final tally was 130 Brother Rats (32 more than the 45th!) in attendance, in addition to three of our cherished widows. Add to that our beautiful wives and significant others, and there were about 240 (42 more than the 45th!) people in attendance … the most ever! Surprisingly, many of our Brother Rats and their guests began arriving in significant numbers on Thursday and spread out all over the Natural Bridge Hotel, the perfect venue. Friday and Saturday began with many of us gathering in the dining room for breakfast. The golfers (about 20 of them) were off early Saturday to their tournament, ably planned by Mike Warring and Bob Earle, and I simply don’t remember the results … I just remember the satisfied looks on their faces when they returned. The VMIAA hosted a fabulous dinner Friday evening in the new Center for Leadership and Ethics, where we heard Gen. Binnie Peay ’62 speak of VMI today and Vision 2039. It simply ain’t the same place, folks, and that is due in many ways to our present and our past superintendent, Si Bunting. VMI is definitely being heard from today and is held in high esteem all over the world! Saturday was our day. As the honored class, following the class picture, we presented a check in the amount of $20,086,063.63 as our contribution to continuing the legacy of VMI! Please credit and thank Gil Minor, Bob Troxler and Beau Walker for their expertise and dedication. The parade in our honor was indeed stirring and moved many of us emotionally, as we joined in the march. I have to tell you that climbing the Guard House in Old Barracks was not only emotional but also challenging and may have set a record for the maximum number and weight of bodies atop the place. The Old Yell for ’63 was resounding! Getting back to terra firma was scary, even though we all made like 20-year-olds so the young ’uns wouldn’t think us to be geezers! (mjc: Nobody was fooled.) Saturday evening at Natural Bridge was a raging success. Good food, good drink, old friendships re-kindled, stories told with varying degrees of fact … everything needed for a fabulous evening.

Did I mention the DJ and all of our “Dancing with the Stars” candidates? The brief but stirring memorial service honoring our 45 departed Brother Rats, with the Rev. Doug Sterrett leading our tribute, could not have been more appropriate. Partying continued well into the night in the Hospitality Suite and the Red Fox Tavern. W.O. Jones did an incredible job organizing the dinner and planning the menu. Peggy and Steve Riethmiller again hosted the Sunday brunch that sadly but wisely had to be moved to Alumni Hall due to the rain, but no one’s spirit was dampened. Thanks to all on the committee who actively participated in the planning and execution of the festivities and conducted the fund drive, but the most thanks belong to those who came and paid a fitting 50th tribute to the class of ’63! There was great excitement leading up to the event, as evidenced by a drastic e-mail volume increase in April. There were many fun exchanges, like the note from Pete Ippolitto who was returning to the Institute for the first time in 50 years! He wrote, “Wayne Brooks was probably my best friend in our class. Hal St. Clair, Beau Walker, Willy Pendleton, Carl Hinkle, Eric Fygi and Chuck Weddington were some of the guys I saw the most. Carl roomed with Wayne and me for three years. He lived in Staunton and knew a lady who made homemade potato chips. When he went home, he would return with bags and bags of the chips. I must have eaten my way through nine tons of potatoes during the time we were roommates. Bill Canepa and I were good friends, too. It broke my heart when he was expelled. I roomed with Bill Deleo, Davey Dibbs and Paul Quinter when we were Rats. That was an interesting group. We were five to the room, but the rest quit. Quinter left, too, which was a real surprise to me. Deleo was a magnet for trouble!! Frank Kennedy and Lenny Peters lived next door. DeLeo’s mom and dad were the cream of the crop. They treated me like one of their own. After our Rat year, we bunked by companies, as you recall, and it was difficult to interact with others since outside of your company, given all the things we had to do. Lenny Fuscaldo, Dennis Crowley, Cliff Miller, Bill Crisp, Judd Downs, Gil Minor and Charlie Straub were guys I really liked and always looked forward to seeing. Crowley and I studied together, and thank God we did, since Crowley was a lot smarter than I was. Lenny and I were really good friends, and I can remember having discussions about law school with him. I have to say that he had a lot to do with me winding up in law school. Cliff Miller and Bill Crisp came to New Jersey during one of our furlough days when we were first classmen and had dinner at my house and maybe stayed over, but I do not remember clearly. Bill Crisp was an excellent writer and wrote a few books. I was lucky to see a squib about his first book in the LA Times and

managed to buy a copy. I read most of the books written by Si Bunting. I read an article by Dave Glantz about the Russian Front and immediately contacted him about it and wound up buying a book he wrote. Dave was gracious enough to e-mail me back. I hope he will be at the reunion. I was Carl Benner’s ’60 dyke my Rat Year. Carl was a battalion commander and a real nice guy. His roommates were terrific. I was lucky to dyke in such a great room.” (mjc: Almost all of the BRs Pete mentioned were in attendance.) Kent McCraney was the first to respond: “Pete – Not sure what you meant about ‘Quinter left too.’ Paul graduated with us, and he roomed with me, Tom Bryan and Phil Ogden our senior year … in Room 123, right next to the guardroom. Remember the time you came in our room when we were on pledge, and Paul pulled his ‘I’m drunk’ routine on you, and we all said we weren’t going to report him, either. Your eyes got real BIG! Look forward to seeing you again.” The Frog (aka Fred Greene) added, “I am listening, and I am coming … already registered, paid and room reserved. Car is idling in the drive. Eric Fygi and my Rat roommate, Jimmy Hickerson, are on board. Although Eric has vision problems, and though he still works full time, he has given up driving. Mary Fygi will drive, assuming her health issues don’t intervene, in which case we may have to find a driver to police him up. I wouldn’t miss this one for the world, and Pete’s restoration to the active roster is a principal reason for anticipating a great time! We shared visits in Vietnam and both Italy and D.C., but it’s been way too many years. I conned Peter into becoming my turtle at the Big Red One in 1967. No Mission Too Difficult, right, Pietro?” Sadly, a number of the e-mails were not so upbeat. I received this from Derith Bennett, Jerry’s wife: “After a recent road trip and much consideration, Jerry and I have decided not to attend the 50th Reunion. The toll on Jerry to ride half the distance was not comfortable, and we realize that we just need to think of all of you having a great time. Due to the necessary details of the clinical trial, flying would also present another set of circumstances. Please know that we will miss seeing all of Jerry’s classmates but, especially, the Brother Rats who are receiving this message. If you are ever in the Tampa Bay area, please be in touch.” I e-mailed the class in early April: “Sadly, we had a couple of last minute cancellations: Tom Smith’s wife died, following a long illness, and he can’t attend. Tom and Teak Whitford sent their regrets, since Tom contracted some sort of an inner ear infection that would prevent him from leading our East Coast reunion soccer team in the much anticipated battle with the Left Coast reunion soccer team, ably led by Pete Ippolito … that is, if he can find the field after 50 years!” Tom Snyder, another soccer player, wrote, “After

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Class of 1963 50th Reunion

Buddy Cato from downtown Emporia, trying to impress his lovely significant other, Mary Baird, at the VMI Alumni Association dinner on Friday evening.

F Company Rats reunited with their favorite TAC officer, Col. Lenny Lewane â&#x20AC;&#x2122;50B, front, center.

A wonderful gift of remembrance was given to the class from Don Prystaloski and Andy Anderson in the form of a Challenge Coin.

Will Crisp, right, enjoyed a crab cake lunch at The Depot in Staunton, Virginia, with Foxtrot Company TAC Officer Col. Leonard L. Lewane â&#x20AC;&#x2122;50B.

A couple of roomies, Larry James from New Mexico and Mike Warring from Maryland, hung out in front of their first class room.

2013-Issue 3

Norm Skinrood, Susan and John Reid, and Bob Stocks re-lived their memories made in the back room of the College Inn.

From left, John Lacy, Mike Curley, Doug Rowe, Randy Williams and John Yurachek from Benedictine High School in Richmond matriculated in 1959 with the late Bill Morris and Bob Strauss. All seven graduated in 1963.

Beau and Ghada Walker with Betty and Mike Smither.

Class of 1963: Those who attended their 50th Reunion are listed in alphabetical order, as follows: Aaron Alison Jr., Charles Amory Jr., John Amos, Warren Anderson, Robert Baldwin, Clifford Beasley Jr., William Bell, Charles Bennett Jr., Lance Bevins, George Blood, Pierre Brunel, Josiah Bunting III, Robert Byrd, Marion Caldwell Jr., Donald Campbell, William Cato II, Paul Clare, Robert Clark, John Cloe, John Cockey Jr., Albert Colan Jr., William Cowardin Jr., James Cox, Robert Craddock, William Crisp, Dennis Crowley, Michael Curley, Wayne Custer, William DeLeo, George Delk Jr., Joseph Dellapenta Jr., David Dibbs, Eugene Doar Jr., James Downs, Francis Drake, Robert Earle Jr., Gary Eifried, James Ellis, Roy Evans Jr., Eric Fygi, David Glantz, Hobbs Goodwin, Jan Gray, Fred Green, James Griffin, Donald Hargy, Gary Hermon, James Hickerson, James Hoge, Anthony Holtry, Preston Holtry, Peter Ippolito, Lawrence James Jr., Logan Jennings, Willis Jones III, Harry Jones, John Jordan IV, Patrick Kelly III, Francis Kennedy Jr., Fred Kennedy Jr., James Key, Kyle Kiesau, Walter Kleine, Wayne Kohlwes, John Lacy Jr., Hinton Lampley Jr., William Lanahan, Joseph Liberti, William Lovell Jr., John Macrae, Dennis Marchant, Robert Mathews, Richard McCormick, Kent McCraney, Joseph Miller Jr., John Mills III, Gil Minor III, John B. Mitchell, Robert Modarelli Jr., Fausto Molinet Jr., William Moore Jr., Thomas Myers, Phillip Ogden, John Parks Jr., Edward Patnesky Jr., William Pendleton, Denver Perkins Jr., Leonard Peters, Art Phaup Jr., Robert Powell, Harry Redd III, Kenneth Reeder, John Reid, Timothy Renaud, Howard Reynolds, Steven Riethmiller, Thomas Rountree, Douglas Rowe, Alexander Scott, Edward Shield, Norman Skinrood Jr., Michael Smither, Robert Spence Jr., Lee Spessard, John Sterrett III, Michael Stockdell, Robert Stocks, James Stone III, Charles Straub III, Charlie Talbott Jr., Harry Tatum, James Taylor, David Thomas III, Paul Thomson Jr., Ian Tissot, Robert Troxler, Ralph Turpin Jr., George Vogel II, David Wade III, Montroville Walker, Robert Walton III, Richard Warren, Michael Warring, Charles Watson III, Charles Weddington Jr., William Wells, John M. White Jr., John J. White, Peter Wick, Randolph Williams Sr., Kent Wilson, William Wray Jr. and John Yurachek.

CLASS NOTES

50th Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April 26-27, 2013

Class of 1963

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES going back and forth to Virginia during the past were obviously in poor health but enjoyed them- distress. I asked him if he needed assistance out year before and after Buz’s (Snyder ’57) death and selves nevertheless. From this statement, I’d like of courtesy, not because it wasn’t perfectly obviwith other older siblings elsewhere in the ous. He nodded, and the first welcome U.S. beginning to have health problems, response was from a member of the Lynda and I are sorry to say that we’ve guard team who instantly produced a decided that we’re not going to make rolling office chair. A seriously relieved it for the reunion. Please pass on our Ian sat down and prepared for a ride to warmest regards to all, and give one the bus. Finding that the chair didn’t more Old Yell for me.” roll so easily and that Ian couldn’t keep Denny Marchant also declined in his feet from dragging on the ground, I his e-mail, saying that it was too soon flagged the first Rat within arm’s reach. after Karen’s death – completely unThe young fourth classmen instantly derstandable.” responded to our plight, raised Ian from Ed Patnesky heard from both Garry the chair and escorted him to the waiting Kemple in California and Jack Boyda bus. So, what’s remarkable about that, in Pennsylvania and forwarded these you ask? The young man’s response was terribly sad messages to me. From Jack: instant, unquestioning and made without “Phyllis and I will not be attending the one word having to do with the immedi50th. We had been looking forward to ate demands on his time and what he was Class of 1963: Pete Brunel and W.O. “Bill” Jones it, but in the past three years, we both doing at the moment! I witnessed the plotted their next fishing trip. have come down with cancer – me with Spirit of VMI at that very moment … bladder and prostate cancer and Phyllis later on, I would write a note of thanks with leukemia. We are both in remission and are to tell you about the remarkable stories of a couple to Binnie Peay for working diligently to teach doing fine. However, the side effects for Phyllis of events that occurred over the weekend and im- these invaluable character traits and continuing have taken their toll and limit her ability to exert pressed me greatly. Frank Kennedy has been suf- the tradition of what we learned as Rats. This, and extend herself without paying a price. There- fering from a number of ailments for the past five Ladies and Gentleman, is VMI! fore, we have decided to pass on the reunion in years or so and relies upon, among other things, a Another particularly moving experience for the best interest of her well-being. We will miss wheelchair and oxygen. His stamina has declined, many of us was the tribute to our departed seeing everyone.” And then Garry: “I am not and he has difficulty getting around, leading to Brother Rats led by Doug Sterrett. Bill Jones planning to go as my health with MS is not good. his initial decision to not attend. Enter the Buffer set up a table with 45 lighted candles, each next I do not walk and get around with a power chair (aka Bill Deleo)! Buff was not having any part of to a photo nametag of the absent men. Everyone and an electric scooter. My life sucks, and I wish Frank’s decision and not only managed to get him maintained a respectful silence, as we read the it was better. If you ever come to California, you to Natural Bridge but also made sure Frank was name and date of death of each Brother Rat … can count on a free place to stay, and we could escorted continuously during the weekend. It was I was a blubbering fool following that one! Don catch up on many, many things. Garry” (mjc: Jack, an expression of love and respect that humbled Prystaloski (approaching his untimely death) Phyllis and Garry, I feel safe in saying that your us all! The other event involved Ian Tissot who and Andy Anderson envisioned a 50th Reunion Brother Rats and their gals love you and miss you; suffers from Parkinson’s disease. After the parade gift to the class in the form of a commemorative most of all, we pray for your comfort and peace.) and the resulting physical exertion on Saturday, coin. Happily, the idea did not die with Don; Andy Most in our class are healthy or, at least, appear I encountered Ian and Pat on the Bricks. Ian was and Candy Prystaloski saw the tribute through to that way. However, a number of our attendees leaning hard on the iron railing and obviously in fruition, and each of us in attendance now proudly

Class of 1963: About this photo, Mike Curley wrote, “Houston, we have a problem. The shuttle busses are missing … so is the class agent!”

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CLASS NOTES carries this beautiful coin with us in perpetuity. A picture of the coin graciously photographed by Bob Mathews appears with this article. Before getting on to the happy sides of this writing effort, let me say that those who were unable to attend were sorely missed, toasted and included in many, many stories … next time, be there to defend yourself! For those who are wondering, reunions will continue every five years in Lexington. They will be appreciably shorter. All will occur during the Spring Reunion weekends and, most likely, will be planned for a weekday … more information to follow. Some comments about the weekend: From Bill Cowardin: “Can’t remember when I had a better time. It was all the guys getting back together. The fun and goodwill overflowed. Your keeping in touch with all of us [over] the years is what made it happen.” Bob Earle’s wife, Bromby, contributed, “Bob Troxler has the bottle for the next five years, and we are keeping it for him. B” (mjc: It was decided in one of the committee meetings that the subject bottle of port wine is to be consumed by the last four survivors of ’63 … I think the point is to have a couple of witnesses to the fools who actually drink the rancid stuff!) Jim Hoge comments, “First of all, congratulations on what must have been the most perfect VMI reunion of all times.” Bonnie Reeder on behalf of Ken: “I have to tell you, Kenny and I had such a wonderful time this weekend – trust me, I speak for him here. It always feels like ‘coming home’ when we come to VMI … Michael, we’ve had a lot of stress here between injured back, selling our home, finding another, closing our business … this getaway to VMI was medicine for me, especially. Best reunion ever.” Dave Glantz comments, “All went off swimmingly, and it was heartwarming to see the cohesion that endures in our class. It is also nice to have our own class chaplain in Doug Sterrett who reminds me very much of the hero in the movie, “Band of Brothers.” And Mary Ann, especially, spent all three days literally drooling over so many ‘nice, polite cadets’ (if she only knew what really goes on in the ranks). I, however, constantly remind her of what time does to us all.” Dave added in a later e-mail, “After three years of work, the ‘Albatross’ of volume three in my Stalingrad trilogy is finally off of my back. The book went to the publisher, and almost immediately, we (Mary Ann and I) escaped to Myrtle Beach and later still to our 50th Reunion, which was a joy to us both to see so many old friends. In early June, we are off to Tallinn, Estonia, to visit with my older daughter who works in the U.S. Embassy.” From Mike Smither: “The only way to have made our 50th Reunion better would be to have a week (or more) to enjoy our Brother Rats. I so much enjoyed seeing everybody and was impressed with the turnout. Thank you all on the Reunion Committee and the Reunion

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Campaign Committee; you did yeoman work ... I miss everybody already and feel grateful for the time spent with you. I hope to see you again soon. Rah Virginia Mil!” I received an e-mail from Will Crisp that was indeed timely: “Brother Rats, attached please find a photo of the crab cake lunch at The Depot in Staunton with Foxtrot Company tactical officer Col. Leonard L. Lewane ’50B. Col. Lewane greatly appreciated the kindness [of including] him in the photo in front of Preston Library with F Company ’63 Rats. I always remember his advice to F Company Rats on our second day at the Institute in 1959: WHEN (not if, or perhaps, or politically correct, maybe peut-être) … ‘WHEN YOU GET KNOCKED DOWN ON THE DECK … GET UP!” (mjc: I have that picture annotated with the names of each man, and I’d be happy to send it to interested parties … sadly, that wasn’t an easy task.) Thanks for sending your wonderful pictures of the 50th Reunion but (you know what’s coming next, right?) most (even some of the ones I took) were too small for publication in the Alumni Review. On the plus side, I am researching and comparing five different websites to store our VMI photos so that we can all have access to the pictures for our 40th, 45th and 50th Reunion, along with pictures from the quarterly class notes and some random shots I have collected over the past 10 years. Requirements for publishing pictures in the Alumni Review can pretty much be summed up as having a file size of 1MB or greater. To our resident Luddites, that means select “highest quality” or “large file” when you are setting up your camera. Trust me, if we all had access to the web, I wouldn’t nag you all as much about large file size, and maybe even Chuck Weddington could get a picture published. For you web-savvy people, please offer some opinions. I would love it if we were to go web only! Thank you all for your love and friendship. I am blessed to continue to serve as your class agent for the next five years or so … still looking for a backup class agent, but no one raised their hand at the reunion, despite my bribes. In the bonds, Curleyrat

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John R. Cavedo

Things are shaping up nicely in our planning for the 50th Reunion next April 24-27, 2014. Committees have been working to make it especially fun and activity-filled but with plenty of time for meeting and chatting. There will be several items in the mail in the coming months. Please take time

to read them all carefully, especially the information about the New Market Legacy Award to be given to a graduating cadet from the class of 2014. Mini-reunions, for those who have elected to participate, have grown geometrically. This year alone, there are/were seven, with differing BRs participating at differing levels. You really should join in. If you haven’t looked at the previous issue of the Alumni Review, pick it up again. There are two nice articles featuring Brother Rats of ’64. One about a program Don Carson set up for less than fortunate kids and another with details about Al Fiorini’s gift to the scholarship fund. Al Fiorini sent a nice note with a photo when he and Pat played in the Humana Challenge Pro Am Golf Tournament in January in LaQuinta, CA. Al is doing a super job pulling together the 50th Reunion Campaign. He is also travelling, when possible, and keeping his handicap down, while trying to start the disengagement process from his company. Marty Stango has been corresponding with me about some ideas he has for the 50th Reunion. With lots of possibilities floating around, there is always room and time for something new and different. Or even something tried and true. In the meantime, he also e-mailed, “Sorry for the late response, but one of my computers died, and I have been occupied trying to resurrect it. Looks like I may need a new video card for the second time in five months. However, one of the reasons I have stuck with AOL is that it has added a number of ‘free’ enhancements based on an upgraded membership. One of them is free PC repair/replacement. As noted, this will be the second time I have replaced this card, but free is much better than buying a new computer. That is my wife’s solution. But I am just not ready to do that yet. Thankfully, I have an old XP laptop I can use to replace my #2 computer and stay with my two-computer setup. That is the way I keep up with my surveys, online games, etc. Can’t beat free money.” Marty, if you only knew how much fun I have trying to figure out my computer/iPad/iPhone and what it does when I’m trying to do something else entirely. But I’m probably the only one in the class who has troubles like this. Dick Atkinson is travelling again: “I have a conference in Liverpool May 11-15, then Susan and I have decided to spend a week traveling through Wales and perhaps southwestern England, coming home on May 22 or 23. We think we will hire a private tour guide to show us around. I looked on the web, and there are guides that will take 2-10 people (of course, there are larger tours, too). Sorry for the short notice, but if any of you are interested in going, let me know. I have been looking at the area on Google Maps, and it is gorgeous.”

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Note from your class agent: These notes will be submitted to VMI a couple of days early in May, since Sherrel and I will be joining Susan and Dick in Wales. Write up and photos in the next class notes. Cliff Crittsinger wrote, “I had a great visit to Wales (Cymru in Welsh) from 5-12 March. It is a very beautiful and diverse country. I rented a car and drove over 600 miles to discover the coastal cities of Llandudno, Holyhead and Aberystwyth to the inland mountains and plains. As you can tell from some of the photos, forget about pronouncing the names of the towns and cities. Ended up with two days in Cardiff (the capital of Wales) which turned into a raucous time, as Wales beat Scotland in rugby, and it was party time at every pub – and believe me, the Welsh know how to party! All said, it was an incredible pilgrimage (except for driving on the wrong side of the road) for me, since I have ancestry in Wales, and this was my first but not my last visit!” Don Carson e-mailed, “I hope you both are doing well. I keep up with some of your activities on the Facebook page. We are doing fine. We had a nice visit with Bill Garber and Marion, who came for a visit last month. It was great spending time with my old roommate. They are doing well. My band played last night, and that was a lot of fun. I wish you had been here to dance and enjoy it with us. I turn 70 tomorrow, and I guess I never will grow up (at least, I hope not). I think you will enjoy this story, since you are a car lover. The big Barrett Jackson car auction is in town. On Thursday, Barrett Jackson held a car show. We decided at the last minute to drive Margaret’s 1956 Dodge to the show and to look at the cars. We arrived late and did not register to be in the show. We saw some great cars. Margaret’s car was getting a lot of attention, and a lot of people were taking photos of it. Craig Jackson, the owner of

Barrett Jackson, walked over to the car and started asking questions. He stayed about 10 minutes and looked at it very closely. He told her it was a great looking car and that he really liked it. He asked if it was in the show and Margaret said no. About a half hour later, as they were getting ready to give out the trophies for the best cars, he walked back and told Margaret that she should come to the ceremony, because she might get a prize. She told him we were not even entered, and he said, ‘I think you should come anyway.’ We went, and he gave Margaret the biggest trophy of the show. I thought it was quite a compliment to her car that Craig Jackson, who sees the finest cars in the country, picked her car out of all the others. I did not have a camera at the award ceremony, but I took photos of the trophy when we got home (attached). It was really cool, and Margaret loved it. Tomorrow, we will go to the auction for a while. I wish you were here; you would love it. They put on a real show and have some great cars on display.” Tony Munera sent a nice write-up on their mini-reunion to India: “On Feb. 25, 2013, W.J. and Lauranne Kitchen, Dan and Sandy deForrest, Tony and Barb Munera, Bill Rodier, Mary Jo Jordan, Carol Allen, and friends started their adventure to Bhutan and India. We started our trip a Kolkata, India, where we visited the ‘Mother House,’ where Mother Theresa set up her Missionaries of Charity in 1950 and where she worked for nearly half a century, caring for the ill and the destitute of Kolkata. The next day, we flew on Royal Bhutan Airlines to the magic kingdom of Bhutan, flying along the Eastern Himalayan Range and culminating in an exciting descent past forested hills into the kingdom. The people were friendly and dressed in their traditional clothes. The architecture was reminiscent of Shangri-La. The high point of the trip to Bhutan was our hike to the Tiger’s Nest Monastery, perched on a cliff

Class of 1964: Cliff Crittsinger in Wales, March 2013.

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Class of 1964: Margaret Carson with her Barrett Jackson trophy, Palm Beach, FL, March 2013. 3,000 feet above the valley floor at a height of about 10,000 feet. After much huffing and puffing, the group made it to the mountain top, and most of the group continued the last 700 steps to the monastery. A credit to the group is that the guides did not have to carry any of us, and we made the trip in record time for people our age. On the flight from Bhutan to Delhi, India, we got a great view of Mount Everest and the Himalayas. In India, we visited Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial, went on rickshaw rides, and learned about Hindu and Islamic traditions. We stayed at a magnificent palace-like hotel at the Ranthambore National Park, where were treated like royalty and where we went on game viewing drives and saw a Bengal tiger. At a camp site, they dressed us like maharajas and princesses, took us on a camel

Class of 1964: Al and Pat Fiorini, left and center, with golf pro Darron Stiles at the Pro-Am tournament in Arizona, January 2013.

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 1964: Matt Jablonka, Keith Gibson ’77, John Manley and Don Stickles in Tennessee, January 2013. ride around the camp, and taught us how to play cricket. That evening, we were entertained around the campfire by local dancers. The next day, we visited the magnificent Taj Mahal, a monument to the wife of a Mughal emperor. At Varanasi, the Hindu holy city, we cruised on the Ganges and observed cremation sites, ritual bathing in the river to wash away their sins and the sacred light ceremonies performed by the priests. We finished our trip with a visit to southern India whose people were converted to Catholicism about 500 years ago by the Portuguese. We relaxed aboard a houseboat for a couple of days, cruising along the waterways and visiting local villages, and we finished the trip at Mumbai (Bombay), India’s largest and most modern city.” Sherrel and I went to the Class Agent Confer-

ence from April 18-20. The Institute is always busy; lots going on. While there, we found out that Dic Donohue ’02 was the officer wounded in the Boston bombing shoot-out. Among the agents and his class, quite a bit of money was raised, even though no one knew the eventual outcome of his injuries. Latest count was just short of $90,000. Friday evening, several of Floyd Duncan’s friends and Brother Rats attended a dinner honoring his retirement from over 35 years at VMI. Buzz Birzenieks, Tom Davis, Harvey Sargent and Hank Cronin attended. The scheduled parade was cancelled due to a downpouring rainfall. Unfortunately, I had to attend a command performance dinner with the other class agents. Floyd has purchased a house in Chesterfiend, VA. But they plan to keep their place on Smith Mountain

Lake. He officially leaves his office the end of this semester. Immediately after the Class Agent Conference, Sherrel and I spent a week in Virginia Beach with my sister and cousin. While there, we got in touch with Bill Crone. He and Dyan invited us to join them the 26th and 27th of April at their beach house on Corolla Beach in the Outer Banks. They were great hosts. Their home is large with a wonderful front on the dunes/ocean/beach. Dyan was a gracious hostess who insisted on over-feeding us the entire time. Bill stays busy with lots of projects and his favorite pasttimes, grilling steaks and sippin’ suds with friends and neighbors. While there, we hatched up the idea of Bill and Dyan hosting a mini-reunion this coming October. Separate correspondence has already been mailed to those who wanted to have their names on the mini-reunion list. If you haven’t received information, contact me to get your name added to the mini-reunion list. Tom and Helen Davis spent the latter part of April and the first part of May in Key West and the Bahamas. A photo is available on the Facebook page. There are several Brother Rats with continued serious medical issues. Time and place permitting, I’ll provide whatever details are available. But the important thing is to remember to reach out to all those with whom you have contact. Not only to reminiscence, but to encourage each other to attend the 50th Reunion. Finally, and as always, it’s an honor to be your class agent. And I thank sincerely those who submitted information for these notes and photos,

Class of 1964: Visiting India in March 2013 were, from left, front row, Mary Jo Jordan, Carol Allen, Colette Ashley, Hazel Courtney, Caroline Burnett, Sandy deforest and Lauranne Kitchen. Back row: Bill Bandy, Marilyn Anderson, Bill Rodier, Jim Anderson, Tony and Barb Munera, Dan deForrest and W.J. Kitchen.

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES which are either herein or on our private class Facebook page.

looking forward to life, love, new experiences and another round of golf, as more unfolds and I experience more and more blessings, due to nothing I have done, but only by the grace and Mickey Finn mercy of a good and loving God, in Christ Jesus my Lord. God bless you all and Rah Virginia Mil, ’65, ’65, ’65!!! Phil Shu, April 12, 2013.” From Lou Siegel who accompanied me to the annual Class Agents Meeting for the second We are gearing up and starting the process of time: “Hey, Mickey – Tell the class that, at preparations for our 50th Reunion that will be the April Class Agents Meeting, we stayed in a Spring Reunion Weekend in 2015, dates to the bunkroom in Alumni Hall – shades of our follow soon. Rat year. Six of us in a space for two; common Lou Siegel has accepted the leadership role for shower; the sinks. Everyone ought to try that one the Reunion Committee (the social part). So, if more time. It has been very interesting to attend you would like to help him on that committee, these meetings. I’ve attended the last two please contact Lou at: louissieg@cox.net. with you, and it is impressive to see and Harry Bartosik has accepted the leadership hear Gen. Peay ’62, with much transparrole for the Reunion Campaign Committee ency, review the issues that VMI faces and (the fundraising part). If you are interested the effort it takes to keep the standards so in joining with Harry in this effort, please high. And, Mickey, thank you for being the contact him at: hbartosikVMI1965@cox.net. touch point for so many of us for all these Know that I am really excited to get the years. I’m looking forward to working on preparation for our 50th underway. It will the 50th and hope we can make it inclusive, be a grand event, so plan to be there! If you relevant and very enjoyable.” think you cannot be available or know a BR Cliff Fleet reports on the annual Round who might have a problem attending, please Ball Weekend: “We had a great time at let me know. Preparations are underway to our mini-reunion basketball game in early make sure everyone can attend. So, please, March. We had slightly fewer BRs this year please let me know ASAP of whatever (most with good excuses for not coming), may prevent you from attending, so we can but it was still a great weekend. I stayed begin to work a solution to whatever it is with four other BRs at the new Raphine that keeps you from being in Lexington in Hilton (Irwin McCumber’s new house in spring 2015! Raphine) that has beautiful mountain views Last point: I have about 185 e-mail adincluding both side views of Big and Little dresses to which I e-mail once a quarter, askHouse Mountains. Staying in their house ing for input to this column. I will use the list were Irwin and Linda, Melvin and Barbara for a mass mailing of critical information to Brannon, Bennie Dyer, Woody Watkinson the class, such as the death of a Brother Rat. and me. Unfortunately, I had broken my left Class of 1965: Barry Walker cycled to the My policy is to surrender an e-mail address shoulder two days before and had to sleep top of Mt. Evans, CO, elevation 14,130 feet, when specifically asked by a Brother Rat for in a chair both nights. As usual, Donny on Aug. 22, 2009, just three months after his contact purposes. Those of you who have White had a full and interesting program 66th birthday. Note the sunscreen on his face, not given me your address are encouraged both Friday night and Saturday morning.” and learn more in the class notes. to do so, especially for keeping current with It took a little urging, but here is a great the class and sending input for the Review. update from Barry Walker! “After I retired If you do not use e-mail, please provide me with the cemetery, as I lay between life and death. At from the Bureau in ’96, I worked for TRW (later one or more phone numbers. All members of the the hospital in Tuscaloosa, I awoke on a ventila- bought by Northrop Grumann) for 11 years, class are encouraged to keep their records up to tor not knowing at first what had happened, if involved in operational activities overseas with date in the database maintained by the Alumni I had been in a wreck or what. With the loving another three letter organization. Charlene reAssociation at http://www.vmialumni.org. Once care of family, friends and an excellent medical tired from the Army Nurse Corps after 21 years there, click on Directories. Thanks! staff, I survived and received a stent as a result of service (three of which were in the Navy At my request, Phil Shu responded with a of my stint at the cemetery – smile!!! With two before we got married). Since she was born recent episode in his life: “I want to share a life threatening events in the last eight months, and reared in Denver and she hated the heat recent experience that has left me feeling like I am very appreciative for life and look forward and humidity in northern Virginia, she said we tenderized meat! I am very grateful to be alive to finding out why the Lord allowed me another are moving to Colorado. Soon after we arrived and praise the Lord for sparing me and giving day. My desire is to humbly serve Him and be in October 2006, she moved her mother from me another day on the planet to serve and glorify attentive to the needs of others, whether those are Oklahoma (then living near Charlene’s sister) to Him – Jesus. Not to seek to impose my belief material, spiritual or mental. I have experienced an assisted living facility near our home. Wilma on our Brother Rats who are not inclined to seek the whole gambit of gain and loss in each of has Alzheimer’s disease. Either Charlene or I go spiritual truth, but this is my story. On April 19th those areas and feel very blessed to be healthy to visit her every day for a couple of hours. We after playing 18 holes of golf, I got the call in today, on a temporary wearable defibrillator. I am do all of her laundry, give her medications and

’65

2013-Issue 3

Greensboro, NC, that my mother was not doing well in Birmingham, AL. I hit the road at 7 p.m., arriving in Birmingham at 2:30 a.m., as I had learned in route that she might not make it through the night. She was alert when I arrived but died April 22nd. At her funeral, I got up to give a eulogy to her life in a remote Akron, AL, cemetery, and as I spoke, my heart began to spasm, and I remember saying ‘Oh, boy,’ as I hit the deck unconscious. ‘Amazingly’ – some present called it miraculous – my son, brother, daughter and her husband all knew CPR and were able to keep me alive for over 30 minutes until the EMS truck arrived. The singing of ‘Amazing Grace,’ much prayer and love [filled]

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CLASS NOTES get her to the dinner table. Needless to say, we the Old Town portion of the city that has under- have been eating lunch with two VMI football don’t go on vacation. My main hobby is exercise. gone major restoration in recent years. The statue players when they are home on school breaks. I lift weights two or three times a week and ride is of Tadeusz Kosciuszko, the Polish officer who They are great representatives of the Institute. my bike three or four times a week (except when managed the Dan River crossing that enabled My associate is a ’96 VMI alum, and I may be it’s below 40 degrees). I have become hiring another VMI grad. How fortunate acclimated to the altitude – we are at I am. I was able to eat lunch with him 5,350 feet – but the older I get, the harder while in Hilton Head on vacation. His it is to climb into the mountains. My name is Jim Odell ’60. Was QB for the highest ride was up Mt. Evens outside Keydets. He met with Larry Egan and Denver at 14,130 feet, year before last. me the summer of 1961 about going to I usually ride between 3,500 and 4,500 VMI, etc., and I had not seen him since miles in a season, doing several century until last week. We had an enjoyable time (100 miles) charity rides.” talking about our VMI experiences. Hope This is the greatest input to the Review all is well with you, and again, thanks ever and auto reply from an e-mail for all you have done and continue to box, that of Dan Price! “Barbara and I do for our class. My best to you – Carr.” are currently @ our daughter’s in Bad Thanks, Carr. Homburg, Germany. Will be out of the Hot off the presses: Our BR Donny country till the 19th of May. Just reWhite will retire effective Nov. 15, 2013. turned last night from five days in Paris! The news was reported in the Roanoke Will also be in Prague visiting a friend. Times on May 14, 2013. (Editor’s Note: Looking forward to the 50th. If you need An announcement also appears in the anything from me in short term, use my Athletics section of this Review.) My e-mail. Will check it 2-3 X’s/week.” Ya’ thanks to Larry Egan for the link and to gotta’ love technology! And a BR who Joe Straub whose e-mail was the first to plans ahead. come in. I know we have all been proud Lew Boynton penned a nice letter – of the great job Donny has done for the literally a lost art – and sent it via the Institute and, yet, are eager to have him USPS. Here is some of what he said. join the ranks of the unemployed! Thanks On his 70th birthday, he is “… feeling for your service to our country and to our good and still playing 18 holes.” About beloved VMI from us all, Donny! contacts, “I have been in touch with my David Kiger announces his semiClass of 1965: Johnny Mac Marshall and wife old roomie – Norm Radford – we ‘Break retirement (seems to be popular with Jamie in the city of Rezeszow, Poland, on April Balls’ when the Giants play the Cowboys many these days): “As with many of us, 20, 2013. See class notes for more information (I’m ahead with the Giants).” And about I will be 70 by the time the Review comes on the visit. where he lives, “Things are O.K. here in out, and I’m finally semi-retiring from 44 ‘Joisey,’ except for that monster storm years of dentistry. I will be working two we had, but it mostly skipped us here in Engle- the Continental Army to block Cornwallis and weeks and off two weeks, but my concentration wood – knocked a few trees down.” He finishes force him to Yorktown. After our Revolution, he will be on treating sleep apnea patients who with encouragement, “Looking forward to the went back to Poland and led an uprising against can’t tolerate a CPAP with an oral appliance. next reunion.” Thanks, Lew! Barbara, make sure Catherine the Great, thus becoming a national New twist to my dental practice. I have missed you both are at the reunion! hero in two countries. Next year is the 70th the last two reunions but plan to be at our 50th. Can any have a more busy life than Johnny anniversary of the university where I teach in Look forward to seeing everyone.” Mac Marshall? “Well, it has been a busy time Poland, and the alumni foundation that Jamie That is all the notes for this issue, so it is time for Jamie and me since my last letter. Enclosed created for them has been appointed to man- to close with an Old Yell for ’65!, ’65!, ’65! is a photo of the time we were at VMI to present age all of their publicity and marketing. That Al Carr the Daniels cape to the VMI Museum. (Editor’s will keep her busy for the next few months … Albert Conner P.O. Drawer 893, 315 Overhill Dr. Note: See article about this in the Institute sec- I hope. For sure, it means that we will be back Lexington, VA 24450 tion of this Review.) It was a great time and, in Poland in October, but that will be part of a 540/464-5314 even more important, an opportunity to have a larger visit that will include Germany, as well. alcarr66@rockbridge.net mini-reunion with Jim Turner, Donny White, More on that later. Now, we are looking forward Easley Moore, and Irwin McCumber [who has to a New Market Day celebration here in Texas. just moved to Raphine and is building a home Have a great day, and Jamie joins me in sending I’m taking the unusual approach of “personalthere]. We were lucky to have time also to meet our best wishes to all the BRs! ‘65! ‘65! ‘65!” izing” this quarter’s class notes to bring all of my great-nephews [recently in the Ratline], Carr Hyatt files this report: “Mickey: Nice you up to date on my situation. We found out in Kevin and Nathan Marshall ’16. The beat goes hearing from you. I e-mailed Lou, and he will February that I was now contending with cancer on in this family, for sure. We barely had time to stay in touch. We had another good outing at in several boney areas (ribs, scapula, pelvis) and unpack from Lexington when we had to repack VMI in March, hosted by BR White. Richard in the lower lumbar spinal area (which had also to head to Poland for our springtime trip. This Moring was recouping from hip replacement caused some stress fractures.) After finishing 14 time, we had the opportunity to visit the city of surgery and made it over for cocktails and din- radiation treatments, I continued taking a chemo Rzeszów in southeastern Poland. The photo is in ner Friday night with MiMi. Larry Egan and I pill and followed post-radiation instructions. The

’66

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CLASS NOTES side effects of both combined caused pneumonia and bowel obstruction, a trip to the ER, intubation and a 19-day hospitalization. I’ve now been home for four weeks – days are now full of physical therapy, home nursing and lots of other home care from Jane and family. Moving from hospital bed to walker to recliner to wheelchair occupies the day. Strengthening and replacing lost muscle has been a challenge, and I’m still getting oxygen – I have enough tubing to travel to the front door by wheelchair. I really appreciate the many cards and e-mails received from BRs that received Cliff Martin’s routing of Jane’s and my messages from hospital and home. Your kind thoughts and prayers, as always, have been very important in sustaining us and are deeply appreciated. You are truly my band of brothers and receiving support from many who have fought their own significant life struggles means so much. Yet another demonstration of the fragility of life makes me want to advise you to say the things you wish to say to all of those you wish to say them to. Leave nothing on your heart and reach out to everyone who crosses your mind, especially family and Brother and Sister Rats. That is the hope of your proud class agent.

’67

Jan Abernathy

Today is 15 May, New Market Day. Notes are due today, and graduation is tomorrow on Post. In 1967, I recall we sweltered in Cocke Hall during our graduation, but no one really minded, as it was our last time in coatees. I wish Godspeed and success to the class of 2013. Somewhere toward the end of these notes, I received the New Market e-mail from Phil Gioia. When forwarding it to you all, I received two bounce backs. One was from Gene Potter’s auto response, reminding me he would be out of touch until late June, as he was completing his Appalachian Trail “marathon” walk. The second one was from a ’67 spouse apparently with a new address. It can be a challenge keeping up with all of you. For example, Bob Green (the other Bob Green) is again on one of his world jaunts that he terms “another geriatric grand tour.” Cards from him have come from various parts of Italy along with a couple of e-mails. He is enjoying himself but complains of the rain in Rome, the difficulty with the postage system, the trash in the streets in Naples and the mountains of bagged garbage in the entire country due to a national strike by sanitation workers. Joan and I were in Naples a couple of years ago and can attest to the trash on the streets of Naples. It is

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Class of 1966: Woody Sadler wrote, “This is our grandson, Woodson ‘Alex’ Sadler, class of 2035, after a rough VMI basketball game.” difficult to imagine it could be much worse now. More on Bob as his tour continues into Ireland in June. At least I know what continent Bob is on, and his e-mail works. When you have an address change or switch service providers, try to remember to let me know. And speaking of touring, several of you still owe me photos of your travels to put in these notes. I have enough usable reunion photos to last for many issues but would prefer to share your current best shots with the class. I send in a lot of pictures that the Alumni Review (AR) folks reject, so send me the best quality shots you can. I forward them, but someone else makes the final selections. Later on in these notes, I mention Ron Lowry and a fishing trip. The photo of his huge steelhead (maybe 7-8 pounds) did not have the resolution needed to be printed, according to the AR editor. John Chiles sent me a short narrative regarding his mother’s 96th birthday party in Lexington. She lives in an assisted living facility there. Gen. Peay ’62 and a number of VMI folks attended, and she received a citation from VMI. John’s dad was first captain in the 30s. Dave Johnson sent copies of slides from our first New Market parade in 1964. “My father-inlaw (William B. Stanard, USNA ’44) took the attached pictures on May 15, 1964, the Centennial of the Battle of New Market. His relative, Beverly Stanard, was one of the cadets who died in 1864 on the field of honor. As you know, my wife’s name is also Beverly.” The quality was not usable in the AR. Susan Groseclose sent in a note thanking me for her e-mail birthday greeting

that had a photo of all BRs in the courtyard at our reunion. “Thank you so much for the birthday wishes. I have a feeling Skip was right there with all his Brother Rats!” I hope he was and was joined by all of our deceased BRs. I have been known to make an error in my notes. Here is one pointed out by Norval Marr ’46: “In the VMI Alumni Review 2013-Issue 1, you state that you were the first VMI kilt wearer to get up on the sentry box. I would like to correct your statement. You were probably the second to do that. At our reunion in 2011, I was the first one to perform that feat. Check the Alumni Review 2011- Issue 3, page 26, and you will see me climbing up the ladder. Norval” I know Norval fairly well, and he is correct. Speaking of checking up on things, I verified that Wayne Marshall’s e-mail regarding Marines in the inaugural parade having their rifle bolts removed was accurate. I recently met with the VMI regimental commander and his S-4 to listen to their post-op review of the Corps trip to D.C. All VMI rifles were checked at a pre-staging area at the Pentagon – for no bolts – before they were bussed across the Potomac. So also was every armed unit “unbolted.” Pete Wells is in a race to take over the most e-mails department. Barrett Graham and Bob Poland have alternated in the top position for several years, but Pete is challenging them based upon volume. Barrett and Bob have the most funnies (mostly political unprintable items), but Pete tops them in political and provocative analysis. I read them all, but as promised long ago, I try to not excite either point of view with political matters. But it is hard to live up to my promise some days. Most of you have gotten this message from Perry Ritenour, but it is repeated here for those without an e-mail address on my ’67 system: “A new VMI digital support group is being formed by Brother Rats who are cancer survivors or patients. The group is designed to communicate and share experiences with all forms of cancer and to swap coping techniques to deal with the impact of cancer treatments, side effects and remission experiences. Together, we can help each other through our battle against cancer. The group is also open to spouses and family members and caregivers who provide care and support for cancer patients who share the title, Brother Rat. If you have an interest in joining this effort, please contact Perry Ritenour at perrylee12@gmail.com.” Joan and I had the honor of attending a benefactor’s luncheon at VMI in April to meet the young man who currently receives the benefit of the Class of ’67 Scholarship. Alex Grant ’14 has his tuition expense reduced by approximately $1,500 this year, thanks to your generosity in promoting funding for the young leaders in our

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CLASS NOTES future. His major is business and economics, and he is from North Carolina. Carter Melton and Dixie Walker both sent this to me. The following helped me find new and more accurate information on Brent Bell: http:// www.virtualwall.org/iStates.htm The Vietnam Wall!! First, click on a state. When it opens, scroll down to the city and the names will appear. Then, click on their names. It should show you a picture of the person or at least their bio and medals. This really is an amazing website. Someone spent a lot of time and effort to create it. The link above is a virtual wall of all those lost during the Vietnam War with the names, bios and other information on our lost heroes. Those who remember that time frame, or perhaps lost friends or family, can look them up on this site. Some recent e-mails from BRs on their birthday greetings: Pat Conley: “Thanks so much for the belated birthday present (reunion group photo). I DO recognize some of our BRs but not many. How did y’all get so old, and here I am, young as ever?! Glad the reunion was such a big success and that all are still buzzed about what a good time they had. We just returned from our anniversary trip to Key West (married at the Hemingway House six years ago). Marie did better with her hip and back while in KW than in the past two years. We expect to be going back to Europe for the summer. We missed last summer because of her hip surgery. I’m doing fine but really am feeling some effects of age now. Can’t do quite as much and get tired quicker than when I was 20.” Phil Liput: “Thanks, Jan. When did we get so old but still stay remarkably good looking? Belated best wishes for the new year.” Phil must have been looking at some other photo than ours. Tom Tomlinson (commenting on memory and

such): “Kenny Houston made that stop on Walt Garrison. Former Houston Oiler and Redskin strong safety is now a member of NFL Hall of Fame. (If only I could remember what I had for breakfast!) Nothing exciting going on here but always enjoy your bringing us up to date on BRs and their families. Keep up the good work.” Ray Gosney: “I am reminded I owed you a message on my brief visit with Wayne Marshall. (Their photo was in the last AR.) I made it a point to drive over to his store about an hour away in Freedom, NH. We hung out in the hunting and fishing area of his store for a couple of hours, solving politics in NH, congress, world peace, etc. I wish I had known Wayne better at VMI. He is a delight to be around. He did get into my pocket for a few hundred dollars when I ended up buying a much needed gun safe he had on display. Boy was it fun for my neighbor and me getting that thing into the house. Wayne, his wife and I plan on getting together soon for a dinner out. Personally staying busy with local activities and running for a second term as selectman in this small NE college town. Looking forward to my 50th high school reunion, George Washington in Alexandria, in early June. My youngest son getting married in CA at the end of that month. There is still a chance after five granddaughters that there might yet be a grandson!” Jan’s note: I lived with Wayne for our first class year and can attest to knowing his being a real character. Lynn Beaulieu: “Those guys are much older than I am; must be a different class. Thanks for the birthday wish. I hope all is going well for you and your family. By the way, there seems to be some confusion about where I am and what I am doing. Still in Richmond. Same beautiful wife, Laura. Seven grandchildren and still developing assisted living facilities. We are just finishing an 86-unit assisted living facility in Viera, FL. The

facility is planned to accommodate approximately 100 veterans. It sits on property we leased for 75 years from the Veterans Administration and funded by a HUD 232 mortgage loan guarantee program. It is the first time two sister agencies of the federal government have combined services to develop an assisted living facility for veterans. It only took five years and $3,000,000 in cash to close the deal, but other than that, it was a piece of cake. I am leaving [soon] for a 10-day trip to Paris and London with my 15-year-old granddaughter. It is a school-endorsed trip. Say a short prayer for Emily; she may never be the same after 10 days with PopPop. Of course, Paris may not be the same either.” Bruce Weiner: “We’ve been in New York for the week babysitting our 2-year-old grandson, while our daughter and her husband are in Israel for Passover visiting her brother. Our son, Mark, is stationed in Jerusalem for a year assigned to the UN. We visited him in December and will go back there in July. While there, we visited Bethlehem and Nazareth, shepherd’s field, Via Dolorosa. We even walked the Stations of the Cross. Not our first trip there but always fascinating.” Tom Mustard: “Thanks for the birthday greeting. I am getting a little better each day and glad to be home snuggled under the RATMAN blanket. My best to Joan.” Shortly after this, I heard from Shirley that Tom was going through a tough and painful battle with a case of shingles. He had been vaccinated and his doctor told him how much worse it could have been if he had not been vaccinated. As an Episcopal minister, Tom’s response to that news was along the lines of “… you mean, it could have been more painful?” I may have taken some liberty with his actual answer, as I was not present when he heard that news. Mel Wright (after receiving a recent issue

Class of ’67 Reunion

Tom and Michele Gillette after the Old Yell for the class.

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Ann and Sam Heltzel at the Friday reunion supper, Lexington Country Club.

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CLASS NOTES of The Institute Report): “I am amazed at the the home and offers it as a week-long getaway Metropolitan Boston Transit officer severely opportunities that cadets have now that I do rental. We slept like rocks with the only evening wounded in the shootout with the Boston bomb not remember we ever had or at least I never sounds being spring frogs and the river flowing brothers on the day after the explosions. “Thank by. The farm rooster was a good alarm clock. you for sending this link. As a resident of Bosparticipated in. Good for them.” ton, living just two blocks from the John Chiles: “Hi, All – I fight finish line and first blast, I thought very hard against my workaholic we had heard almost all there was tendencies. Some days, I succeed regarding the dead and seriously admirably. (Referring to a photo wounded. However, this news either of photo of him that accompanies wasn’t broadcast or I missed it. Of these notes), the young lady is course, I hate to say that VMI isn’t Judy’s and my A-NUMBER ONE generally on the Boston-area radar, – ACE – GRANDAUGHTER, so to speak, so it may never have ADDI.” been known that Officer Donohue John Forsyth (responding to was a VMI grad, if this article were John Chiles’ photo): “Probably not published. I’m sure you’ve your most valuable service to heard more than you wanted to date! Looks like Addi found a know about our tragedy. The city cozy vantage point from where is truly in mourning, along with the she could make sure her grandfamilies that were directly affected. daddy stayed out of trouble!” Just today, residents and businesses Joan and I spent a couple of were allowed back into their own delightful days as guests of John spaces after being kept away from and Sandy Lee the week before Class of 1967: Anne and Randy Blanks, right, with Judy six blocks of Boylston Street by three the annual Class Agents Conferand Dave Wilkinson on the VMI Alumni Association Caribblocks wide. However, they still ence. They live in a log cabin bean Cruise, spring 2013. don’t have total freedom of movepartway up a mountainside that ment (and are being accompanied by Sandy’s dad built many years ago. Mail service does not travel the rocky, wet and We had “fresh from the hen house” eggs for city employees), as there are parts of the area muddy road by the place. (They do have a P.O. breakfast and venison parmesan and venison that remain a crime scene. It’s not clear when Box in nearby Craigsville.) In fact, I had to buy tenderloin on successive nights, Sandy harvests the public will be allowed back into what is a a Virginia Gazette map to even find the name the deer, skins and cleans it, cures it and really major part of our shopping area, but it won’t of that trail – Ramsey’s Gap. It is named for knows how to cook venison. Max Toch visits be before the businesses are fully operational. If you can imagine this, all the restaurants still Sandy’s family that goes back for generations them during deer season, I was told. I will close with a message from Gretchen have food on the tables that people were eating in the valley along the Calf Pasture River. We stayed in her family home about a mile from Fox Stein regarding Officer Dic Donohue ’02. when the first explosion took place. Clearly, their cabin. Sandy has completely refurbished (Again, for those not on my e-mail.) He is the there remains a lot to be done to get us back to normal. Thanks again for sending the link to the article.” Gretchen is married to Jay Stein (a VMI supporter), and she is the owner of Fox RPM Corp., 2 Oliver Street, Boston, MA 02109. I thank all of you for your support, cards, emails and photos. It is a pleasure to be of service to the ’67 family and VMI.

Class of 1967: Don Brown, center, with the owner of the plane he flew to Australia and the new pilot.

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Class of 1967: John Chiles’ “Reliable Babysitting Service” is reserved for granddaughters only.

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CLASS NOTES

’68

Tom Hickey

On the first weekend in April, Dick Wise (Richmond, VA) and Kevin Henry (Winston Salem, NC) proposed to have a small (one or two foursomes) golf outing at the Lexington Golf and Country Club where Kevin is a member. Talk about going viral! Both golfers and non-golfers showed up. In attendance were: Dick Wise, Kevin Henry, Gil Piddington (Harrisburg, PA), Bogie Holland (Virginia Beach, VA), Skip Roberts (Lexington, VA), Mike Gompf (Richmond, VA), Marvin Thews (Roanoke, VA), Guy Wilson (Charlotte, NC), Joe Smith (Annapolis, MD), George Walton (Richmond, VA), Dixon McElwee (Boca Raton, FL), Rev Jones (Prosper, TX), George Sebren (Niceville, FL), Howard Donald (Richmond, VA), John Kemper (Richmond, VA), John Van Landingham (Eugene, OR), Rick Siegel (Bethesda, MD), Kerr Kump (Elkins, WV), Mike Smythers (Chesapeake, VA), Richard Wallach (The Plains, VA), Dee Biggs (Acton, MA), Frank Pinizzotto (Middle River, MD), John Augustine (Burke, VA), Chandler Williams (Midlothian, VA), Steve Powers (Malvern, PA), Bill Welsh (Ashburn, VA) and Groovy Davis (High Point, NC). Groovy’s wife, Janice, and their son and daughter accompanied him. Also playing that weekend were Donny White ’65, Donny Ross ’74, Craig Carlock ’74 (Donny Ross’ roommate), David Prasnicki (VMI Alumni Agencies CFO) and Tom Brett (friend of Donny White). You can see the pictures on Guy Wilson’s VMI68 Facebook page. Jack Ferguson (Middleburg, VA): “I continue to enjoy life here in Middleburg, the heart of the Virginia horse country. I no longer play polo, and I hope that decision will keep me out of the poorhouse, but I am still foxhunting with no plans to stop. This area has a strong VMI tradition, and when I wear my VMI jacket, it almost always prompts a conversation with someone whose grandfather, father, uncle, husband or brother went to VMI. It will be seven years this October, since Leah and I were married on horseback. We decided to test our marriage by finding out if we can work together as well as live together, so last year we joined forces in J.T. Ferguson Real Estate with my old Richmond office, continuing to work in commercial real estate and our new Middleburg office, handling both commercial and residential. Richard Wallach, Rick Martinez (Middleburg, VA) and Dean Kershaw (Fairfield, VA) are in the area. We get together periodically with roommates Jim Henry (Williamsburg, VA), Dick Wood (Richmond, VA), and Chandler Wil-

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liams and their spouses and see Burt Butterfield (Mechanicsville, VA) and his wife when we are in Richmond.” Gerald Jones (Hingham, MA): “I am very close to retiring from ‘paid’ work but continue to keep very busy in the non-profit world, especially as parts of Congress close in on eliminating safety nets for so many Americans. I love the passion and talent in the non-profit world. Our kids live near us now, a real gift, especially with two grandkids. They are such a joy for Linda and me.” Byron Nettrour (Fairfax, VA): “We are all doing well. The older two kids are out on their own. The oldest one is married and has blessed me with two grandkids, and the middle one is about to get married this November. The youngest one has got two more years of school before he becomes a music teacher.” Krita Kritakara (Bangkok, Thailand): “I’m well here in Bangkok, playing a lot of golf and spending time with three grandchildren. In AprilMay, planning to go to Italy and board a cruise ship in Venice for a nine-day trip around Greece and Turkey. Had a good day with Craig Smith (Roswell, GA) and family and looking forward to seeing more Brother Rats visit, especially my roomies, Tom Norment (Williamsburg, VA), Chips McCallum (Suffolk, VA) and Buck Miller (Wilton, CT)!! They were going to come in January but the big storm that hit the East Coast delayed the visit! If all goes well here, will try to come to the 45th and see you guys!” Dave Wagner (Littleton, CO): “I was on Maui and otherwise occupied on my birthday. We spent two weeks there. I am also going to Scotland in May and June. As you might expect, I am enjoying my retirement, or semi-retirement, since I still do about 10 hours a week in legal work. However, I do not have the deadlines anymore, which is great. I am still the chairman and president of the (Colorado School of) Mines Foundation. We are in the middle of the quiet phase of our capital campaign. It is going very well. For about seven years, I have been working on the 40th reunion class gift of my Air Force Academy class. It has been a marathon, but it looks like we will raise $2 million for the new Honor Board Room at USAFA, which will be named for the class of 1969. We will only be about four years late. This is going to be a year of reunions for me. My law school class at Georgetown is celebrating 40 years. We, of course, have the 45th Reunion for our class, which I plan to attend. Next month, I am going to an early 50-year reunion for my high school class. We are doing it early, because the school is closing on Jan. 1, 2014. I have not been back to the high school since the day I graduated, so I think it will be an interesting, if bittersweet, experience.” Smokey Beirne (Roanoke, VA): “Retired from state police in August 2011. Wife retired about

four years ago. More active in freemasonry. Just staying around home. Trying to get rid of 30-plus years of clutter.” John Warwick (Virginia Beach, VA): “Things are going pretty good, and I am in the process of looking for another job. I am still in good health and doing fine. I am looking forward to the reunion and a chance to see everyone.” Charles Brightwell (Waterboro, SC): “The year 2012 was an interesting one, to be sure. On 25 March 2012, I had a heart attack and subsequently had quad bypass surgery. Shortly after that event, I had a detached retina which required surgery. I have now had six surgeries on the eye and still no sight in that eye, but the doctor says I will eventually get some sight. In September, I had additional surgery to install a cardio defibrillator. Back in 2009, I closed my construction and engineering business, due to the bad economy and poor construction market. I worked for another construction outfit until 2011when I was ‘laid off’ because of the economy. Since then, I have been drawing social security and supplementing that income by doing some engineering design and consulting work. Thank goodness my wife, Gary, has a great job. She is the director for the Colleton County Museum and farmers market. She has government benefits ... health insurance, thank God. I stay busy keeping up with my grandchildren, two boys, ages 13 and 11, and two girls, ages 8 and 5. I still love saltwater fishing, although I did not get to go very much last year. I plan on making up for that this year, though. I keep up with a few of our BRs through Facebook. I have a special place in my heart for VMI. However, I am a South Carolina Gamecock, through and through.” Di Johnson (Humble, TX): “My daughter, Jessica, and Brian Long were married March 17, 2012. We had a St. Paddy’s Day wedding, complete with green beer. The coolest part was the ’62 Chevy 409 convertible and the ’60 Corvette accompanying the wedding party on the country club lawn. I again co-hosted the Texas antique boat and outboard motor clubs’ participation in the big Houston Boat Show in January. At the show, 431 kids helped build two wooden boats. We kept tickets, drew two winners and gave the boats away. Suzie and I increased our activities in our two churches, one in Texas and the other in New York, as we travel a lot more often between the homes. I went on the Walk to Emmaus last July and received an overwhelming level of support from friends and family.” Jim Fleming (Corpus Christi, TX) recently moved from Cincinnati, OH, and he stopped by for lunch and a good visit. Kerr Kump: “Susie and I are up to 12 grandchildren now. The baker’s dozen is coming on May 5th. The oldest one is only eight years old. We had them all home at Thanksgiving – 22 strong – that was interesting and a real hoot.”

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES John Thrift (Wrightsville Beach, NC): “Continuing to enjoy retirement life here in Wrightsville Beach. Kellie and I just returned from the Alumni Windward Islands cruise. The clipper ship was a unique travel experience, but a highlight of our trip was spending time with Pete and Patty Farmer (Edmunds, WA). We hope to get them to WB for a visit when they return to the East Coast in May for their son’s VMI graduation.” Will Robertson (Virginia Beach, VA): “My activities include doing other people’s taxes and staying current in the mortgage business, both of which are becoming more and more difficult, due to unnecessary federal regulations.” Rick Siegel: “I did share in a special moment recently. Turns out my wife, Judy’s, second cousin is Enda Kenny, the prime minister of Ireland. He was in town for St. Patrick’s Day, and the extended family got to visit with him for about 20 minutes at a D.C. reception.” Dave Clark (Doswell, VA): “Jean has retired from VCU and is teaching one class at RandolphMacon College, a seven-minute drive versus 40. She doesn’t miss the stress. My business is doing better. Hope to sell it in a couple of years. Son David and family are coming in April for a visit. David is a major in the Air Force stationed at Edwards AFB, California. We are looking forward to seeing all of them, including granddaughter Rebecca and grandson Matthew. Jean and I are going with a group to Europe for 10 days this summer.” Paul Hebert (Steamboat Springs, CO): “I will be spending the fall semester at VMI teaching an honors course on international humanitarian aid in the Department of International Affairs. I look forward to catching up with BRs and spending time in the valley.” Brad Butt (Glastonbury, CT): “I’m still full time in my management consulting work, because I still enjoy it. Most importantly, I became a grandfather on March 14 when my daughter, Lauren, had her daughter, Lila. A real life’s thrill!” Phil Lanier (Lakeway, TX): “Becky and I spend most of our time cruising around the links in our golf cart and hanging out with our two grandsons.” Guy Drewry (Virginia Beach, VA): “My family and I are doing well. I had some health issues last year, but I seem to be doing fine for now. I am still doing combat development work for the Army and still enjoying it. Now that Fort Monroe has shut down, I have moved up the peninsula to Fort Eustis. Unfortunately, it is 1-1/2 hours from my home in Virginia Beach. Retirement can’t be far away now.” Terry Emerson (RAF Alconbury, United Kingdom): “My current assignment (and last) is at a K-5 school with the DoDEA system. I’ll complete 41 years this year. I never thought I’d want to live in the UK but find it is a ‘brilliant’ location. We are close to London by train (the senior citizen discount on the weekend allows us a round trip

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ticket for about $20). Cambridge by bus is free! We have spent some time touring in the ‘motherland’ of our U.S. heritage and enjoyed the fantastic sites, homes, buildings, restaurants and pubs of historic note. Our city of Huntingdon has a very nice pub crawl and all walkable from our house. My daughter was married last summer and one of my roomies (Herb “Housebody” Brasington (Vancouver, WA)) came down for the festivities. Kendra married John Kilburn, and they live in Wilmington, NC. Housebody and I (and Lois) had a grand time talking, seeing friends and families, and enjoying the parties. I have convinced Herb to come and visit, and he has said he would love to visit, perhaps in the fall. We are returning to the U.S. this July and will spend the month on Lake Huron. I am preparing for our 50th Reunion – That will be ‘Good to Me’!” Joe Smith: “I joined our BRs in Lexington for the Billy Davis celebration and enjoyed the VMI baseball victory over VCU on that Saturday with George Sebren and others (including Groovy and his son, Will). I have finally decided to retire from the construction industry come Sept. 1st. Time to do a little traveling and see America the beautiful and visit some family and friends scattered around the country. I did track down Bob Crenshaw (Fletcher, NC) by e-mail, and we had a good long phone call after too many years. He and his wife, Veronica, live in Fletcher, NC, and he said they plan to be at the reunion in September, as do I and my fiancé, Joan. I also talked with Ned Harris (Ipswich, MA) about being at the reunion. Ned and Cornelia will try to make it from their base in Phoenix, AZ (as opposed to their bases in ND, MA and Solomon’s Island, MD – just kidding!). I’m also trying to get used to the idea of having two kids in college this fall, as my daughter starts freshman year and my son his junior year … oh, my!” Vic Huang (Cupertino, CA): “I am still busy with my work, electric vehicles and their infrastructure, working internationally where we have an R&D center and auto factory in China. Business development takes me to several states in the U.S., Latin America, Asia, of course, and this year, possibly Europe. I am also heavily involved with the IEEE.” Ben Hedrick (Bethlehem, PA): “We keep working on the house and garden ... and traveling. I did a three-week backpacking trip with my older son recently: Vienna, Czech Republic and Slovakia. Then, an easier trip with Marcy to El Salvador, Honduras, Guatemala and Belize. Will also do my fifth year at Camp Perry in July as a line officer in small bore. I also shoot competitively in small bore benchrest but am nowhere near as good as the kids are. I like working with the younger crowd.” Ed Anderson (Lynchburg, VA): “Pat and I are both still working, but I think I might be getting close to the ‘cusp’ of retirement … just gotta get

out of the mode of saying, ‘one more project.’ Was stunned to read that Ken Shafer had died. Made it over to see the Keydet basketball team play Longwood last March.” Rick Eades (Ridgeland, MS): “My family is doing fine. I recently participated in three, 100-mile century rides. Two were here in the Jackson, MS, area and one was in Chattanooga where I rode with my brother, a University of Chattanooga graduate. So, I have kept in shape for those long rides, and I still continue running. My 5-year-old granddaughter lives in the Jackson area is becoming quite a cyclist.” Tayo Leduc (Hiawassee, GA): “We are planning our big summer vacation to Nova Scotia in July. Plan on stopping at VMI on the way. We will also be going to our class reunion and my Vietnam platoon reunion later on in October. Last summer, we went west to Sedona, AZ, then north to Coeur d’Alene, ID, with stops at all the tourist attractions, including Wall Drug Store. Our daughter was just awarded tenure status at James Madison University.” Rick Brothers (Sedona, AZ): “Jane and I retired in 2011 and moved out of the Steamboat Springs snow country to Sedona, AZ. We are currently loving retirement in the Southwest and getting better in golf, tennis and hiking the red rocks/ruins.” Dick Rankin (Honolulu, HI): “Our school (Iolani School, Honolulu) made it to the Final Four National Economics Challenge Championship and went to New York City for the competition.” I’ll close with a couple of memory joggers from Les Martin and John Augustine. Les Martin (Hanover, PA): “Remember old SuperFish’s nude swimming class where some Rat was selected to sit in a bucket of pool water, and then another poor Rat was picked at random to submerge his head in the same bucket!!?” John Augustine: “I think my lowest point at VMI was about four or five days into the Ratline ... when we were finally run down to the main sinks for our first ‘shower’ at about 10 pm at night. It was hot as hell, and we’d soaked those gray fatigues with four days of sweat. That main sinks was like a steaming, sauna fog bank. Couldn’t see five feet in front of you. We came out of those showers hotter and sweatier than we went in and had to put back on the same stinking fatigues we wore in there! The Cadre guys running the ‘F’ Co Rats through said we’d be ‘getting one of these nice ‘showers’ once a week, whether we’d needed it or not, and to be sure to write home that we were being kept clean and well groomed!’ I thought, if this frickin’ crazy routine was gonna be continued like this for the next few months, then I was getting the hell out of this insane asylum while I could still walk. Not to mention, we all could have just as easily been at UVa drinking beer! I guess things must have gradually improved somewhat from then on (?), since I didn’t leave. Thank God

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CLASS NOTES the brain is a resilient organ! But I do remember that night as the ultimate low point for me. By that time, it seemed that each new event they ran us through at VMI only continued to prove that things were simply deteriorating from horrible to absolutely unbearable. Yeah, the good old days!!”

’69

Walter Judd

Greetings, BRs and friends of VMI ’69. It is mid May, and spring is in full swing. I just got back from a short visit to Boston, MA, to see my grandson just before his first birthday and noted the strength the city and its citizens show in their recovery. “Boston Strong” has joined two other notable charitable organizations on the left field wall of Fenway Park and has been supported well by donors from all over our proud nation. Bill Kirkpatrick, a BR who matriculated with us and spent two years at VMI, sent in his update. Bill said he graduated from North Carolina State University with a degree in mechanical engineering and worked through the years with several engineering firms in this country and France. The time in France was with the Michelin Corp., where Bill said he learned to appreciate wines and started his collection. Bill mentioned his met his wife, Jane, through BR Jay Hoenig and enjoys her art and her studio in North Carolina. See Jane’s website, janekfineart.com, for more info. Bill’s and Jane’s two children live down the road in Greenville, SC. Since retirement from Michelin at their headquarters in Greenville, Bill has been remodeling his beach cottage in Bethany Beach, DE, building furniture, and working as a mentor for at-risk minority students in an organization he and his wife founded for middle school children. Bill reports they are making good progress in providing coaching and opportunities not normally available. Thanks, Bill, for checking in with the class. April 19-20 were the dates for the annual Class Agents Meeting in Lexington. This year, the conference name was changed to Class Agents/ Volunteer Leaders Conference, as we also had interaction with Alumni Association regional directors for the first time. BR Bob Heely, Alumni Association president, kicked off the meeting on Friday afternoon and worked with both groups for the weekend. I had the pleasure of leading a workshop with Charlie Ramsburg ’66, director for North Carolina alumni chapters, about maintaining lasting relationships with our alumni. Both groups met again Saturday morning and received a “state of the Institute” briefing from Gen Peay ’62. When viewed from a perspective

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of his time in the superintendent’s position, Gen. Peay has spearheaded many changes and updates for the “I.” “Vision 2039” is well underway, with more new buildings expected in coming months. The next big project will be to build a physical education building on route 11 next to the football field and basketball arena and then renovate the “Pit” (our era basketball and indoor track facility). The large facility will contain room for physical fitness activities when the weather outside is not conducive to sports or exercise. Having seen the similar facilities at USNA and USAFA, I am sure this building will get a lot of use by cadets and the faculty. (Editor’s Note: An article about this facility appears in the Institute section of this Review.) Saturday afternoon was beautiful – cool and sunny. My wife and I joined John and Sallie Sebrell for a tour of 11 artists’ studios located around the county. We traveled the back roads connecting the small communities in Rockbridge with Lexington and got to see true artisans in action. One man mined his own copper to make tools; another dug his own clay and fashioned pottery, while others painted or sculpted with various media. One lady we visited turns junk heap items into whimsical art. That yard had to contain the most eclectic “art items” ever. The old axiom was still correct: one man’s junk is another person’s treasure! It just depends on a creative mind to put things together. The three BRs – Sebrell, Heely and Judd -- and wives then completed the day with a lively meal in downtown Lexington and lots of conversation at the Southern Inn and the Sebrell’s home later. On 26 April, I sent out the following: “Lots of noise about retirements as we -- collectively -- get to age 66 this year. Lots of news from Boston, as VMI connections to the marathon bombing and aftermath come out. Lastly, spring gathering for a sporting event is announced. Bob Heely has set his retirement date from his current job. Bob announced his retirement like this: “Brother Rats, after three years in the Marine Corps, 29 years in commercial banking and 10 wonderful years here at Westminster-Canterbury, it’s time to retire!!! I announced it here last Thursday and will stay around until my current projects are finished and a new person is found. Semper Fi!!” WIP Priest suggested his last day with NOAA will be Nov. 12, 2013. Others – like me – are targeting dates later this year. Pat Webb, vice president for annual giving at the VMI Foundation, a ’69 grad from Texas A&M, also submitted his retirement papers for June. Larry Brydon pointed out this info to me and sent me the website below. Little did we know when the annual marathon began on Patriots’ Day in Boston that the day would end in tragedy for nearly 200 people. One of the prominent players in this real life drama was a 2002 grad Richard “Dic” Donohue. Officer Donohue was a MBTA

police officer who normally just kept the Boston subway system safe for passengers. On this day, he was involved in the fire fight with the two brothers (the two bombing suspects) and was hit in the leg. While the battle raged around him, Dic nearly bled out and was in serious condition when he was finally tended to by the emergency personnel. I heard the EMTs kept CPR actions going for over 30 minutes to keep him alive and pumped him full of life saving fluids. He underwent surgery and is now considered on the way to recovery. Dic has a young family and is being cared for by his BR family. The site below gives a little more info. Whenever things happen around this world of ours, VMI men (and soon, women) seem to be in the middle. Website: http://www. indiegogo.com/projects/injured-mbta-officer-dicdonohue. Lastly, VMI comes to Norfolk on April 30 for an evening baseball game against ODU. BR Brantley is organizing the get-together for anyone interested in attending. The action will start at Fellini’s restaurant on Colley Ave (near the campus) between 1600 and 1700 and continue to the game (1800 start advertised) later on.” Drew Brantley later reported on the ODU baseball game in Norfolk: “The outing at the ODU game went very well. Leo [Barnes], TO [Palmer], Bobby and Lush [Heely], Gary [Mackey], WIP [Priest] and a host of other VMI types from other classes showed up at the feed before the game, and many went to the game in spite of the weather (rainy and cold!).” I received many other replies from BRs with tales to tell. John DuBose: “I would like to report that we have lost another of the Greatest Generation. My father-in-law passed away a few weeks ago. He served in the 29th Division, joining the unit about a month after D-Day. He fought across France and Germany and, as a sergeant, was in charge of the weapons platoon when there was no officer left. He was wounded near Julich, Germany, by an artillery shell. He was twice offered a commission but would not take it, because he would have to go to another platoon, and he did not want to leave the guys he knew. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the European Campaign medal with four battle stars, the Good Conduct Medal, the World War II Victory Medal and the Combat Infantry Badge. Rest in Peace, Sgt. Dee L. Flynn, Co A, 1st Bn, 115th Infantry Regt. Thank you for your service.” Rusty ‘the former Wilt’ Chamberlain: “Retire? I don’t think so. It would be nice, but Kathy and I need to pay for our ramblings. Besides, I am going to wait until I get old. And prayers for Officer Donohue and all those affected by the bombing in Boston.” Paul Curs: “Speaking of retirement, I’ve ‘reversed’ my full retirement decision. The local country club, one of the finest in the Republic of Texas, needed a part time marshal, and a golfing

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CLASS NOTES buddy recruited me. When I learned I only have to work two (2) days a month for 5 hours each day, in return for unlimited use of the range and course, I decided to re-enter the world of work. My hours are 1000-1500 – so tolerable. I occasionally have to say, ‘Hi fellows ... things are backing up behind you ... perhaps you can pick up the pace a bit’ ... like being a cadre sergeant again. When I told my son, Aaron, that I had a new part time job, he said, ‘You’re a marshal ... right?’ I said, ‘How did you know ... did your brother, Dave, tell you?’ He replied, ‘No, I just figured it was the only job you’d take.’” Mike LaMar: “Greetings to you all from Fair Oaks Ranch, TX. I have been retired 11 years now and am loving every minute of it. Watching our grandsons play Little League, doing a little travel, playing a little golf, doing some church work and visiting the other grandchildren keep us pretty busy. Ruthie ‘celebrates’ her 20th anniversary since her massive stroke, and she gets around slowly, but she gets around, and that is the important thing, plus her spirits are very good. I noted Paul’s new job as a marshal, and I almost did that a few years ago, but they wanted to put me on the early shift ... and I just didn’t want to get up that early! Peace to all.” Tommy Thompson: “I am retiring 30 June but plan to continue part time at SunTrust for a year.” John Robins: “I retired from the Hampton Public Defender’s Office two days ago. I’ll still be officiating high school baseball and football and doing court-appointed appeals and whatever else I can get away with (or, for you English majors, ‘with whatever else I can get away.’)” L.R. Williams: “Attended 40th MCV reunion last weekend, and those attending were Doctors Dick Jeter, Bob Slay, K.C. Woodruff and L.R. Williams. Doctors Jack Welch, Mike Hanna and Reb Anderson did not attend. We had a great weekend, seeing 40 of 135 classmates of whom half are retired, and took a tour through the brand new science building.” L.R. was prominently noted in one of the photos on Facebook showing off the new building on MCV’s campus. Don Mercer: “Just got home from Maj. Gen. Joe Brown’s funeral [VMI ’80 who died last week in a small place accident] and that of his wife up in Williamsburg. I thought I might run into you, as there was quite a VMI contingent there. He and his wife and their dog were killed turning final on their way to land at the Williamsburg-Jamestown Airport. VMI cadets were the pallbearers for both. It was a beautiful service, with well over 300 in attendance. His dad was one of the flight surgeons in my fighter squadron, and I also flew with him all over Alaska back in July 2001. My, how time flies. Other than that, I am taking stock of my photographic gear for an upcoming trip in July to the Amazon upriver in northern Peru and then backtracking a bit for a couple days at

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Machu Picchu. All is well here. I am getting a bit smaller but no prettier.” Don was a featured author in the April 2013 edition of the Photographic Society of America (PSA) Journal, “An African Photo Safari.” Jim “Mav” Long: “The Keydets [football team] had a scrimmage here in Roanoke at William Fleming HS. I don’t think we had a day that cold and windy at the fall football games! The team signed a football, and the Roanoke members in attendance signed a piece of the old basketball floor from the Pit to send to Dic Donohue ’02 who is Bob Copty’s son’s BR. Jake Copty was on hand to receive the two items and forward to Dic.” Lee Barnes: [My comment about VMI grads being in the middle of a lot of actions] “Reminds me of highly esteemed alum, Vince Thomas [former mayor of Norfolk for many years], who used to open up his speeches with, “We’re small, BUT we are everywhere!” No retirement for me for next three years ... I hope!” Lee is very proud of his son, a plebe at USMA, who is still making news as a wrestler and who, as a freshman, made it to the NCAA championships this year. Rick Snow: “I find it interesting to see the notes about our movement into the population for idle oldsters. May I offer a small thought about being retired. I have already done it a couple of times. It’s boring. After the initial three or four months of sleeping in or travel or projects or honey-dos, idleness started to wear thin. Consider: it’s a Tuesday morning, the projects are done, we saw the kids and grandkids last week, the house work is done, errands and honey-dos completed, played golf yesterday, the yard looks great, the vineyard is pruned and watered, the crossword is done, and the wife is at work. What are you going to do the rest of the day? After taking off for about a year, in January I started another job. I’m the science lab supervisor for the local community college here in Albuquerque. It’s a lot less stressful than being a corporate VP, the folks are smart and nice, and I don’t have to deal with federal oversight or DoD. The biggest challenge is dealing with academics and political correctness. The point of this rambling is that I suggest you find something that is fun and engages your spirit and intelligence. Take care, and enjoy the time of your life.” Mike Dean: “My wife, Stephanie, has decided that the 50-year pin from the government would look nice on me. Coincidently, that is about the time she can retire. I am going into my 44th year now. I’m not working for 20% of my salary; I’m working for 20% more than if I retired. At least, according to the paper, I’m a rich government employee. And since I’m working the same job for the last 25 years, I don’t have to learn anything new.” In early May, Mav Long sent this good news: “Beth and I would like to offer our thanks to all of you for supporting our cause in the MDA Walk. It

was a wonderful event at the Salem Civic Center and was attended by several hundred people. The local MDA chapter did a fantastic job of organizing games, giveaways and making it an enjoyable afternoon. Now the good part … they raised over $60,000, thanks to wonderful folks such as yourselves and Beth’s team (aptly named Frantic Recovery, after the boy’s band) finished in second place with just shy of $2,600!!! Yeah and way to go.” If you want to send in an early gift for next year, do so. Chances are, Beth will be out there beating the drums again and needing your contributions. Or send money to Dr. T. C. Jones for his camp for diabetic children. Both are worthy causes. Speaking of Dr. Jones, his quick reply to my April message said, “In Istanbul on pilgrimage walking with Paul, incredible religious historical. Look forward to telling you more.” I suggest we start calling Dr. Jones “Indiana”! He certainly has a flair for the exciting. Later in early May, he continued, “I went on a pilgrimage to Turkey. Went to Antioch where Peter first spoke to people called Christians, and Paul later spoke there with Barnabas. Then to Taurus where Paul was born. Over the Taurus Mountains through the Cilian gates. Passes through the mountains where Alexander the Great went in 333BC. Balloon ride and then to Ephesus and Hierpolis. Ferry to Patmos, Greece, to see the cave where John wrote Revelations, on to Nicea (now Iznik) [think the Nicene Creed] and finally to Istanbul. So, both a spiritual and visual kaleidoscope adventure.” In mid May, I got a small picture and words from David Reid that Larry Seekford and Bob Waldo had joined him for golf: “We had a great golf day at my home club, Willbrook Golf Club, in Pawley Island, SC. We are out for dinner now with the wives, having a great VMI get-together!” Keep those mini-reunions going, BRs, and send photos! When I passed words on my own impending retirement at the end of May, several BRs responded with great advice. Read Charlie Bryan’s advice to the novice: “Congratulations! A few words of advice: (1) [your wife] married you for life, not for lunch. (2) Learn to say ‘no’ to the many ‘opportunities’ that will be offered. I’ve failed miserably on that one. (3) Try to retire to something rather than nothing, preferably something you enjoy. (4) Use your experience and your natural abilities to do good in your community. (5) Finally, stay off the GIM for as long as you can. I’ve failed that one, too! Best wishes, BR, in this new phase in life.” Bob Alexander offered me a job cleaning crabs and fish … And Jim Baker and John Sebrell invited me to play golf more often. I think I will go for the golf vice the fish cleaning job. Again, I remind you to put this save-the-date reminder on your calendar: 18-21 Sep 2014. That is our next reunion weekend. If you want to help in some way, contact committee chair Ron Wall,

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CLASS NOTES rwall2@nc.rr.com, and volunteer your services. If you have photos you want to share, contact Dr. Pat King at drpd123@aol.com. And for certain, keep those contributions coming to VMI on a regular and frequent basis. All of them count toward our 50th Reunion totals. In the Spirit, Walt

the need for renovations self-explanatory. When you are in the Shenandoah Valley, you owe it to yourself to take the short side trip out I-64 West to Covington to see all the good things going on in this special place. On their April vacation trip to Asheville, NC, to tour the Biltmore, Jim Mawyer, Ed Morris ’66 and their wives stopped for a brief visit with Bill Chiswell near his 160-acre farm in the greater Warren Grasty South Boston, VA, metropolitan area. It seems that Ed and Chis have competed in numerous skeet, sporting clay and pigeon shoots over the years. Chis seems to spend most of his time shooting and fishing, with a little golf mixed in. Hang in there, Chis. We feel your pain. What better way to begin this issue of class notes Also cruising through the Appalachians this than with some trivia. In response to the 1940s respring on their way out west were Mike and Beth cording of “The VMI Spirit” that Bob Hawthorne Hannum, who partook of a ’shine tasting while uncovered last month and that I e-mailed around, in Gatlinburg, TN. The itinerary also included the Ben Dick replied that the trumpeter on this recordhoisting of Cinco de Mayo margueritas in Albuing, Billy Butterfield, is the son of Pat Butterfield, querque, NM. Rumor has it they are bucking for the Foxfield Race director in Charlottesville and their own travel show on The Drinking Channel. colleague of Ben. Not quite in the same league Just let me know if you need any stand-ins, Mike. as being a member of the Mayflower Society but Speaking of moonshine, J.C. Hanks, Ned still worthy of note, so to speak. Ben also Snead and Taze Taylor made their anreports that he and Waite Rawls recently nual sojourn to Galax, VA, in early May traveled to Winchester, VA, to meet with to attend the HoustonFest 2013 music Ben’s clients in their pursuit of validatfestival. The trip also involved fishing for ing what appears to be Gen. Stonewall trout, firing guns and tasting some locally Jackson’s belt buckle from the Mexican distilled products, not concurrently, one War and Col. John Mosby’s shotgun. As would hope. Ned made the rookie mistake his exposure to some of the more eccentric of sending in a picture of the three of them Civil War collectors and “experts” broadwith the very beautiful Rhonda Vincent, ens, Ben is coming to the conclusion that a bluegrass singer of note, which had the not all of them are, shall we say, civil. effect of making them look, how should I Regarding “The VMI Spirit,” I am proud say this …. old. to relate that Bob Hawthorne has had it Completing the moonshine trifecta we added to the repertoire of the Thomas Jefhave none other than Jesse Glidewell, ferson Cadet Corps Alumni Band. who relates that his mother taught school More news from C’ville: Chad Lash in Franklin County, VA, and walked past a wrote to say that, while attending their still every day on the way to school. Which great-niece’s performance in the UVa begs the question: Is the name “still” a Drama Department’s production of “You contraction of the word “distill,” or does Class of 1970: Taze Taylor, Ned Snead and J.C. Can’t Take it With You,” he and Caryn it relate to the condition of immobility Hanks at the River House in Galax, VA. sat behind none other than Kent and Judy and inertness that ensues from imbibing Schlussel. It turns out that Kent and Caryn too much of the still’s output? The phone worked together several times during their lines are now open. tenures in the intelligence community. From just the other side of the Franklin Chad says that he also bumps into Ash County line on Smith Mountain Lake Ormes occasionally, and he reconnected came news from Mike Snead that he has with Fuzzy Patrick awhile back at a State designed a 7-foot-long, otter-proof, floatDepartment Armed Forces Day reception ing, custom bait cage. This device will in the D.C. area. Ash is deputy National allow baitfish to remain up to seven feet Intelligence manager for Korea in the below the surface in cooler water, which Office of the Director of National Intelwill hopefully keep the shad alive, even ligence, and Fuzzy works on the Veterans’ in the summer heat. American ingenuHistory Project at the Library of Congress, ity at its finest. While Mike plays with where he offers up free tours to any Brothfish bait, Suzanne works for their son, Class of 1970: From left, Bill O’Connor, Gene er Rats who stop by. He encourages all of Christian, three days a week at his truckWilliams ’74 and Waite Rawls at the College us to send him any personal war stories or ing business in Roanoke, Dawson Truck Orientation Workshop golf outing in Richmond. those of our relatives, so that these can be Lines. Three of their six grandchildren

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added to this project. He has approached the John A. Adams ’71 Center for Military History & Strategic Analysis at VMI in an effort to collaborate with their VMI Oral History Program. In March, Fuzzy and Val took their annual vacation on St. Vincent in the Grenadines with their daughter and her family. While their son-in-law provided cardiology exams for the locals, they fulfilled the critical role of sipping rum punches while watching their grandchildren cavort on the beach. A few weeks later, they joined their church group on a trip to the Holy Land, where their church has a partner church in Nablus, a city on the northern West Bank. And in July, Val heads to Honduras with their son on a church mission trip, while Fuzzy toils away in the D.C. heat and humidity. Other Brother Rats crossing paths since the last report include Bobby and Betty Brown, who visited with Donnie Wheatley at Boys’ Home in Covington in March. Betty is on the Boys’ Home board, which is preparing for a major capital campaign to renovate the cottages, built in the 1950s, where the boys live. This makes these cottages almost as old as we are, which makes

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES live in nearby Bedford, VA, founded 27 years ago by and they come to the lake to Gene Williams ’74. COW stay with their grandparents brings at-risk minority high every chance they get. Mike school students to VMI also reported on the recent each summer for five weeks presentation to his mom of intensive academic and by Senator Steve Newman athletic challenges. It is a of the joint resolution he life-changing experience sponsored honoring Mike’s for many of them, as they dad, Brig. Gen. George M. build self-esteem and see Snead Jr ’43. As you may that they can “be whatever remember, Brig. Gen. Snead they resolve to be.” The was the general officer who VMI community has suphanded out Army commisported this organization sions to members of our class since its inception, and back in 1970. The presentaWaite has served as a direction, which drew over 200 tor since 1988. attendees, was well covered Speaking of golf, Gorby the Lynchburg area TV don Williams has once stations and newspapers, again upstaged us all. This Class of 1970: Tom and Jill Cooke with Susan and Herbert Braun and all of Mike’s brothers, time, he was caught at the at Caroline’s on Duval Street, Key West, FL. Photo taken by Shep including Jim Snead ’72, Master’s Golf Tournament Shepard ’59. and their wives attended. It schmoozing with none was a great way to honor the other than the chairman life of a pretty incredible VMI man. happier note, I can report that Herb and Tommy of the 2012 Ryder Cup and Condoleza Rice, Taking advantage of one of the few warm appear to have sufficiently recovered from their who is one of two women members of Augusta days in April, Herb Braun, Jim Mawyer, Dave March visit to Key West, FL, with wives Susan National Golf Club. Schmidt and I enjoyed a round of golf in Rich- and Jill. As it happened, Shep Shepard ’59, who Diehl Jones sent in an update from the inmond. Tom Cooke joined us afterward at Herb’s was also vacationing there, provided an action augural Pinehurst Concours, an international home for a tremendous steak dinner, which was shot of the four of them at Caroline’s on Duvall antique auto show, where he and Pat showed greatly enhanced by the presence of Herb’s sis- Street, assuming, of course, that sitting on bar their 1953 Chrysler New Yorker. Theirs was ter, Inga. Sadly, Dave’s mom passed away late stools qualifies as action. one of 118 cars invited from as far away as last year after an amazing recovery from major Also hitting the links this spring were Bill Monterrey, Mexico. Dielh says that the highlight surgery three years ago. For the time being, he is O’Connor and Waite Rawls, who participated of this event was taking wounded warriors from remaining in Akron, OH, where he has lived the in the annual outing to benefit the College Ori- Pinehurst back to Fort Bragg in the old cars. past several years, helping to care for her. On a entation Workshop, a not-for-profit organization He also sent in a picture from an April Ferrari Club rally in Charleston, SC, where theirs was the oldest Ferrari to participate. As you might suspect, this picture was deemed too racy for publication. In a similar vein, A.C and Beth Arnn are revving up for their trip to visit their son, Maj. Patrick Arnn, who is stationed at Aviano, Italy. They plan on taking a break from their winery tours just long enough to take in the Monte Carlo Grand Prix on May 26th. And seeing that they are in the neighborhood anyway, A.C. figures they might as well take a swing by the Porsche factory in Stuttgart. A Carrera would certainly reduce the travel time from Columbia, SC, to Lexington this fall. Also touring Italy, as this goes to press, are Kent and Judy Schlussel, who sent an e-mail from Pisa with concerns about the local building code. Dick Cheatham writes from Richmond that business is booming, recently taking him from Arizona to New Hampshire. He reports that his recent speaking engagements at the Institute went very well and that he was very impressed Class of 1970: Gordon Williams with Condoleza Rice and the chairman of the by the extensive facility improvements on Post 2012 Ryder Cup at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, GA. since his last visit. However, when he told me

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CLASS NOTES that he will be in Warrenton, VA, later this anything about them on the police scanner, so I idiot mittens we had as kids. The only person month presenting at a meeting of the Electro- assume they behaved themselves. Also in May, more upset than Stix would be whoever finds static Discharge Association, I was shocked. Ned Haley ran into Dave and Diane Nuckols his wallet, hoping for some cash. Adding to the Dick also admits a recent interest in science at the Arts in the Park arts and craft festival in Chandler household’s stress level is the fact that and technology, particularly in what is known Richmond, where Dave was sporting a bandage son Brandon, wife Timi and their 3- and 1-yearas the Electric Universe. I’m not sure if he is on his neck not unlike the one Ned had last year. old boys have been living with Stix and Nancy just trying to keep current, or if he really gets a And John Shackelford wrote in to say that he is for four months, while their new home is being charge out of it. OK, I’ll stop now. still working as a contractor at USTRANSCOM built. During this period, the air conditioner, Next, from the “Say What?” Department, Jerry and that he and Cathy have recently moved from washing machine, clothes dryer, dishwasher Nickelsburg was on one of the Xibalba and icemaker went kaput. It may take Mapping and Exploration Teams that him until our next reunion to unwind from surveyed caves in Belize for the Institute all this. I guess we will get an indication of Archaeology. He posted some great this summer when Gray and Nancy trek pictures on Facebook. You should check north with son Chris and wife Tiffany them out. I think you’ll dig them. Movfor the 150th anniversary of the Battle of ing right along, by the time you read this, Gettysburg over the 4th of July holiday. daughter Monica will have graduated Somehow during all the chaos, Stix says from NYU with a degree in history and he and two cohorts managed to develop journalism. Jerry should consider hira seminar on railroad yards and terminals ing her, so she can apply her journalism through the continuing education program skills to keeping track of his meanderings of the University of Wisconsin, which around the globe. they then gave to 50 attendees in Chicago. Also globe hopping is Dixie Walker, Reed Heddleston reports that his camwho is working with Cathay Pacific Airpaign for the Virginia House of Delegates ways’ Boeing 777 pilots in Hong Kong. is churning right along, although signifiWhen not working, he tries to figure out cantly hindering his golfing exploits. He how the locals can eat so much rice yet is also pondering writing a book about his remain thin. We anxiously await his final experience. Given the nature of politics in report. Dixie also mentioned that his hotel the commonwealth, one wonders whether is on a golf course, so he has absolutely this will be classified as a comedy or a no excuses for not carrying our foursome horror story. when he next appears at the Keydet Club Congratulations go out to Dave LawLeadership Golf Outing. rence and George Ritko, who recently Checking in from lovely Stuarts Draft joined the ranks of the retired, and to was John Pappas, where he is a senior Neil and De Steverson on the birth of yet engineer with Froehling & Robertson in another grandson. Neil called VMI at 8:01 their Crozet office. John’s son, Chris, and a.m. the morning after his grandson was his two sons, Jasper and Chance, who now born to register him for the class of 2035. live in Arizona, recently visited. For the When the woman on the phone asked him Class of 1970: Diehl and Pat Jones at the inaupast five years, John has been building a what took him so long, he reminded her gural Pinehurst Concourse antique auto show single shot, falling block 32-caliber rifle that they did not open until 8:00. When in Pinehurst, NC. from scratch, which has required learning you’re a judge, you can get away with that some basic machining techniques. From the picture he sent me, this thing is unbelievable. Instead of a straight barrel, this barrel was made using a nickel plated “Archimedes screw” from a concrete moyno pump. (I think we have another qualifier for the “Say What?” Department.) Looking at it from the side, the barrel has a sine wave shape instead of a simple, straight, tubular shape. Therefore, the core of the screw had to be hollowed out just enough to allow for the insertion of a 32-caliber rifle barrel. Which makes one wonder if, at any point during this process, the word “why” ever came up. I could go on, but I have already grossly exceeded my level of competence here. All I can say is, “Good luck, John.” In mid May, Don and Tucker McQueen made their annual trek to the D.C. area for lunch with Paul and Lynn Munch. I didn’t pick up

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Mascoutah to O’Fallon in southern Illinois. The class was proudly represented at the annual New Market Day ceremony at the Pentagon by Dewey George and Russ Marshall. The astute reader will remember reading awhile back about multiple iterations of the Lost Wallet Saga, brought to you by none other than Stix Chandler. Well, boys and girls, he’s done it again. And this guy is still allowed to drive a car. Amazing. At least in the previous two iterations, he eventually found the wallet. Not this time, Kemosabe. It seems that, while helping to unload two large rental trucks full of canned goods for the U.S. Postal Service food drive in Orange Park, FL, he lost his wallet for good. Which only goes to prove that no good deed goes unpunished. Too bad they don’t make idiot wallets with cords attached like those

kind of stuff. Dave and Pam just returned from Italy, and he has spoken recently with Bob Grossman, who is son-sitting this summer, and Dave Price from his new home somewhere in the mountains. He and Pam are pondering a trip to the East Coast this summer. I’ll keep the ’fridge stocked with beer, Dave. And last, but not least, congratulations are in order to Ralph Costen, recipient of the 2012 Innsbrook Rotary Business Leadership Award for his outstanding leadership in business, a commitment to high ethical standards and dedication to the community. Well done, Rufus. (Editor’s Note: Mr. Costen’s award announcement also appears in the Alumni News section of this Review.) That’s all, folks. I hope to see many of you during the upcoming football season. In the Spirit!

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CLASS NOTES

’71

James Kelly

These notes cover the period of Feb. 15-May 15, 2013. The winter of 2013 refuses to give in, as evidenced by the fact that Kathryn and I had to once again cover the flowers and defrost the cars this morning. Surely, better days are ahead. This week in Lexington, the cadets will once again observe New Market Day, and graduation for the class of 2013 will occur on the 16th. The red white and yellow will fly here in Pulaski, and we will try to pretend that it really wasn’t 42 years ago that we were packing up our gear at VMI and preparing ourselves for our next great adventure in life. I hope that everyone will have an enjoyable summer and many chances to participate in those things which you find relaxing. Sadly, our class lost another Brother Rat on March 12 of this year. John Thomas died at the age of 63. He matriculated at VMI from Ohio and was awarded a basketball scholarship. John remained at VMI through our second class year and completed his degree at the University of Toledo. He had a distinguished career as a salesman of turf and ornamental agricultural products. John is survived by one daughter, three sons, eight grandchildren and four brothers. The class of 1971 extends its sincere condolences to the Thomas family. (See obituary in the Taps section of this Alumni Review.) Congratulations are in order for Mal Kerley upon his retirement from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT). Mal started his career with VDOT not long after graduation in 1971. For a number of years, Mal was the administrator of VDOT’s Structure and Bridge Division with oversight responsibility for more than 20,000 bridges and overpasses. In July of 2004, Mal became chief engineer for VDOT and was “The Man” when it came to just about everything regarding transportation projects in Virginia. The VDOT commissioner stated in a press release that Mal’s leadership “has made Virginia’s engineering and construction program a model for other state DOTs.” In February, the Richmond Joint Engineers’ Council (RJEC) recognized Mal as Engineer of the Year for 2013 at their annual celebration. Job well done, Mal ... best wishes for your retirement. (Editor’s Note: An announcement about Mr. Kerley also appears in the Alumni News section of this Review.) The semi-annual mini-reunion at John Metzger’s estate in Vesuvius was held on the last weekend in March. John reported that all of those in attendance had a great time reconnecting, telling tales, participating in some shooting

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sports and eating a lot of good food. Newcomers to the event were Rose, Miller, Westbrook and Rogers. They were joined at some point at the Lodge by Fogleman, Biersack, Hanke, Haywood, Littleton, Coleman, Wright, Kennedy, Piernick, Jolissaint, Bryan, Dunlap, Golden and Paton. The next scheduled outing is for November, and Metzger will begin accepting reservations at any time. Bernie and Wanda Groome attended a performance by the VMI Glee Club, while the cadets were on their spring break at the Seabreeze Recreation Center in Florida. Apparently, some other VMI alumni were part of the gathering and joined in the singing of “The Spirit” for the finale. Bernie sent along a picture which can be found on the ’71 Facebook page. (Editor’s Note: A photo also appears in the Association News section of this Review.) In the last edition of class notes, I reported on the retirement of Mike Strickler from his post at VMI. On April 19th, a surprise reception and dinner were held in Moody Hall, following the retirement ceremonies. After 38 years, who knows how many parades Mike has attended, but on this day, the parade was canceled due to heavy rain … go figure. Anyway, there was a great crowd on hand that included members of Mike’s family and lots of Brother Rats to celebrate with Mike and Doris. The class presented Mike with an autographed photo of the official ’71 pennant that we use at reunions when we “march” into the courtyard. A total of about 60 people were in attendance, including Berkness, Biersack, Brumback, Bryan, Dancigers, Davis, Dudley, Ellington, Gault, Gearhart, Golden, Haywood, Honeywell, Kelly, Kennedy, Kirby, Littleton, Lockridge, Martenstein, Metzger, Noon, O’Donnell, Pickral, Price, Roder, Rose, Rush, Wall, Wright and Yorgey. Mike commented that this sort of event “could only happen at VMI.” Congratulations to Mike on the outstanding work he has done at VMI and as an ambassador for ’71. See related photos on my Facebook page, which were provided by Larry Brumback. Robert “Speed” Patterson has recently been awarded the designation of accredited investment fiduciary analyst (which is the highest designation in the field) from the Center for Fiduciary Studies. The AIFA designation signifies the ability to perform assessments measuring how well investment fiduciaries are fulfilling their duties to a defined standard of care. Additional information about the types of consulting and assessments which are done by Speed’s firm can be found at Global Fiduciary Consulting, LC. I have mentioned Facebook on several occasions in the past. I have a personal page, the class of ’71 has a page and a large number of classmates (or their wives) are also involved with that “social medium.” I admit that I am not a big user of this

tool, but as I was looking through the last few months of postings, I found travel photos and all manner of “stuff” from about 25 Brother Rats. So, it is not a bad way to catch a glimpse of what some of the guys and their families are doing, if you want to spend some idle time checking it out. Kathryn and I were in Lexington in April for the Class Agents/Volunteer Leaders Conference. This was the first time that class agents had joined forces with VMI Alumni Association chapter presidents and representatives in an effort to improve our collaboration and efforts to serve VMI alumni. There are about 85 “official” alumni chapters scattered throughout the U.S., which can be found by visiting the website vmialumni. org. During the weekend, we attended various sessions that included both groups and some that were specific to our particular function. On Saturday, we received a comprehensive briefing from Gen. Peay ’62 on the state of VMI. The dinner on Friday night was held in Marshall Hall, and the featured speaker was our BR Captain Pete Van Hooser, USN (Ret). Since this dinner was occurring at the same time as the reception for “Strick,” about 30 of us were able to occupy the balcony and hear Pete’s presentation to the group. During the leadership conference, we received a lot of information about improvements that have been made in the various online services provided by VMI. I would encourage each of you to log on and become a part of the VMI Ranks which allows an alumnus to access VMI news, event calendars, chapter activities, etc. Each class also has its own link that we can use to post news items and to update our personal profile information. For those of you who like mobile apps, there are some of them available as well. Additionally, VMI has done a great job with regard to online information that is available to prospective cadets and their parents. I have found from my own experience that is a great tool to use when talking with young men and women interested in knowing details about life at VMI. Several very nice publications are also available, such as a pamphlet entitled, “Why VMI” for parents and a booklet, “Leadership Opportunity Inventory” for prospective cadets that can assist them with planning for VMI and setting goals for their cadetship. I have recently received the figures for Annual Giving as of the end of the third quarter for FY13, and I am proud to report to you that the class of ’71 is right where we should be … number one in our decade for percentage of donors (35%) and tied for number one (with ’70) for the number of donors at eighty nine (89). Thanks so much to every one of you that has pitched in to provide much needed funds for VMI. I hope that others of you will be willing to become a part of this very important endeavor and make a donation this year. The operating budget for VMI depends on our support to the tune of 28% of this year’s

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CLASS NOTES budget, and with the rising costs of receiving a VMI education, 84% of the Corps get some sort of financial help. Visit VMI and take a look at what is happening on campus with our facilities, and spend some time with a few cadets and talk to them about what VMI means to them. You will be genuinely impressed and proud to be an alumnus. Be safe out there this summer. I hope to hear from many of you and will look forward to seeing you in the fall when football starts up again. We may even have a new conference to compete in before too long. Kathryn and I hope to finish the two-year “overhaul” of our house and spend some time with grandchildren, Lauren ’26 and Ryan ’27, when they make their annual visit to Pulaski (aka “the country”). Let me hear from you, and let VMI be heard from today, wherever you are. Jim

’72

Larry Houseworth

These notes cover Valentine’s Day through New Market Day (or maybe the day after, but today’s Ms. Hennessey’s deadline, so I’m writing fast to stick to it!). Here it is, mid May, and this will be the first summer-ish day we DC-er’s have experienced in a long time during our Global Warming-deficient spring … ATTENTION IN BARRACKS – ATTENTION IN BARRACKS … In dutiful compliance with my certified statement to BR Walt Chalkley (at April’s Volunteer Leadership Conference), I hereby announce … Walt consistently, and with great enthusiasm, kick’s Rick Hack’s XXX on the golf courses of The Villages (“free golf for life”), FL. … that is all – we now return you to your regular programming … April’s Class Agents Conference coincided with the Volunteer Leadership Conference, affording class agents and Alumni Association chapter/ regional representatives the opportunity to mingle and exchange ideas on how best to serve and engage alumni in the life of VMI. There were many creative minds at work, with each one offering unique opinions and approaches on our common goal – perpetuating VMI as a pillar of honorable, principled, civil, and academically rigorous life for young men and women willing to accept the challenges of commitment, duty, self-reliance and service. That may sound a tad dramatic, but – trust me, BRs – the discussions I’ve had with the current crop of cadets and recent graduates

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Class of 1972: On April 23, 2013, Rick and Rosanne Hack, Bob and Grace Bailey, and Walt and Debbie Chalkley met at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Tampa, FL, for lunch and a chance to win some money. According to Chalkley, who submitted this photo, “It was reported later that no one got rich, but they all won in the buffet line. This was the second time the couples had gathered at the casino in recent months with more future outings planned, as long as the retirement checks keep coming.” From left are, Hack, Bailey and Chalkley. make me proud, and maybe a tad misty-eyed, of what the Institute accomplishes every single day. Check out the website, and encourage others to do the same – friends, especially those with high school-age kids (OK – grandkids), business and civic associates, seatmates during those interminable flight delays … you get the picture. When people peruse the site, they’ll understand (and forgive) your zeal. The financial state of the Institute is sound – severely challenged but sound. State support is now less than 50% of what it was when we were cadets – and it’s headed down (the double-edged sword of declining tax revenues). VMI would not be where it is today without the critically needed continued support of us; not federal, state or corporate support – as valuable as they each are – but us, the individual alumni. I’m heartened to say the class of ’72’s participation remains above 30% (86 of 264) which is almost three times the nationwide average (yet half of Princeton’s 63%, the highest in the nation). While our 30% is dollar-neutral, it indicates to me that more of you are taking the opportunity to step up and acknowledge the role of VMI’s values in your lives. And as we look forward to our opportunity to make a major statement in that regard (our 50th is only nine years away), getting into the routine of regular participation now will make it all the easier to make that statement then … thank you, BRs. I had the opportunity and privilege to spend a few moments with retired Navy captain and former SEAL Team Commander Pete Van Hooser ’71 after his address to the Leadership Confer-

ence. Pete is humble and quiet to a fault, relative to his astonishing career. He spoke to us of the role of VMI values throughout his career, and one point jumped out – there is a straight line between the VMI Honor Code and principled leadership. There is no room in true leadership for anything less than courageous, compassionate and consistent adherence to the tenets of honor. We were blessed to live it at VMI and are blessed to apply it in our lives. It’s a beacon to others and so desperately needed in today’s world … but Pete said it much better and far more eloquently than I have here. Now to our throng – and as usual, news is light after the holidays. First, it’s heartening to see the openness that you all share when discussing health challenges, solutions and encouragement (thank you, Phil Clayton, Bob Patrick, Jim Van Landingham and all the others). We’re facing issues that those of a lesser bond would never have the courage to share – and we do it openly, honestly, and with no other motive than compassion and concern for our BRs. BRs, never, never feel that there’s anything that cannot be shared among us – if George Kosovic’s mailing.org list is a bit too public for you, don’t hesitate to reach out by e-mail, text or the plain old-fashioned phone call. If you can’t find someone you want to contact, let me know. Bill and Pat Smith (just back from a week in Hawaii) and Bob and Sharon Gore visited Chris Tompkins and his wife, Ginny, to share lunch and “… lots of memories and great discussions.” Bill said Chris’ face lit up when the four of them walked into the room. He said Chris is an

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES amazing individual filled with “… evening was in Marshall Hall, home spirit and drive” and an inspiration to the Hall of Valor and a wonderful to all – particularly to him and Pat leadership center. It is one of the while she goes through some serious newest additions to the VMI campus. health issues. Bill said he hopes BRs As I mentioned, some folks were in the Richmond area will take the not able to attend at the last minute. time to visit with Chris and Ginny. Bill and Judy Boland were called Shortly after my last notes deadline, away on business that could not be Linda and I joined A.J. and Karen postponed; Gary and Lynn Shope Fojt and Phil and Carol Wilkerson remained home to be with their for Mexican and Shakespeare on person who was having surgery due to haps the coldest (wind-chill) evening complications from an accident he in recent memory – paella and “Henry experienced a couple of years ago; V” – “… we few, we happy few…” Dale and Ruth (“Toots”) Kitchen (a salute to DoDo) were unable to come, because her John and Kay Freiermuth are livmother suddenly passed away; and ing the dream … recently sold their Tom Linn and his wife, Jannie, home at multi-times what they paid remained home to provide support Class of 1972: Sharon and Bob Gore, and Pat and Bill Smith visited Chris and Ginny Tompkins. for it and moved into a paid-cashfor their family. Jannie’s sister was for-it-condo-with-a-view … still donating a kidney for a transplant to within commuting distance of kids and grandkids hospitality suite. Saturday was chock full of ac- her husband, so Tom and Jannie remained home tivities, beginning with a formation on the bricks to care for their children. Mark Weiss was able in Tarpon Springs, FL. You’re a lucky man, BR. Walt Chalkley shared a picture and the follow- and culminating with dinner in Marshall Hall that to attend some of the reunion functions, but his ing: “On 23 April 2013, Rick and Rosanne Hack, evening. And, of course, more fellowship in the wife, Linda, was unable to make it, because her Bob and Grace Bailey, and (Debbie and him) met hospitality suite! father passed away the week of our reunion. I Ed Hall and Chris McGreer led the class in don’t have an update on how folks are doing, but at the Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Tampa, FL, for lunch and a chance to win some money. It was a ceremony on the bricks Saturday morning in please keep these Brother Rats and their families reported later that no one got rich, but they all memory of our 20 Brother Rats who have passed in your thoughts and prayers. won in the buffet line. This was the second time away. A “roll call” was done as part of the cerI want to be sure to say “thank you” to Ed Hall the couples had gathered at the casino in recent emony. Ed informed the group that based on the for running the skeet shoot, Dave Woody for months, with more future outings planned, as long generosity of a number of our Brother Rats, all heading up the golf outing, and Tom Clark for as the retirement checks keep coming.” Does my deceased class members not already having a pulling together the Facebook page and photoheart proud to see ’72 doing its best to prop up brick in place will have one in place this fall. Ed graphs of the reunion (many of which are in this led the class in a recital of our “Last Man Stand- edition of the Review.) Also, a big thanks to Klaus the economy. That’s it for now. Life is good for your humble ing” pledge, started at our 35th Class Reunion, Worrell who provided the welcoming posters and scribe, and I remain honored to be your class in which our class pledges that the “last man mini “placemat” posters with pictures of the class standing” will ensure that all of our Brother Rats and our BRs listed as a border to the poster. If you agent. have a brick in place, so that the class of ’73 will did not receive one and would like one, please Rah Virginia Mil! be remembered in total as a class. Larry let me know. Klaus also provided a leather belt Following the brick ceremony, the class moved inscribed with “Virginia Military Institute 73” to into the VMI Museum in J.M. Hall for another the first 31 registrants for the reunion! Mike Kelly ceremony. As I have mentioned in other comKlaus made a “get well” poster for Richard munications, Ed Hall was able to secure a couple “Dic” Donohue ’02, the Boston police officer of guns from the collection of Peter Lincoln ’57. shot during the week of the Boston bombings. Lincoln wanted his collection to go to the mu- Class members signed the poster and gave Dic seum; instead, it was placed in an estate auction. our best wishes before it was sent to him and his Ed went to Charlottesville and purchased two wife, Kim. Dic is progressing well, although still WOW! That is how to sum up our 40th Class of the guns, an 1884 Trap Door Springfield and in ICU today (New Market Day). He expects to Reunion! We had a great crowd, and I think ev- a 1903A1 Springfield. Members of the class of be moved to a rehab center soon. eryone had a wonderful time. You really missed ’73 contributed to their cost, and the guns were Dave and Susan Northcraft attended the out on a super event, if you were not able to make donated to the museum by the class in honor of reunion, and Dave provided words of thanks it. We had 79 BRs who attended some or all of our 40th Reunion. There is a history of the guns, and encouragement to the class at the Saturday the events and a total of 129, with spouses or sig- both of which were used by VMI cadets, and the evening dinner. Dave and Susan were faced with a nificant others as guests. There were four couples museum did not have any like them. The guns are couple of very tough years as he battled cancer and and two spouses who had planned to attend but on display in the museum, and we thank Ed for his admitted that, at times, they were not sure if Dave hard work in getting them on behalf of our class. would live to be at the reunion. Dave thanked were unable to come at the last minute. After the museum dedication, the class picture everyone for their support, prayers, cards and Thursday was a check-in day with lots of fellowship and partying at the Holiday Inn class was taken, and we prepared for the parade. What a telephone calls during those very difficult times. headquarters. On Friday, we had a skeet shoot beautiful day and a great Old Yell in the courtyard. He is doing well now and is again very active in and golf outing, followed by food and beverages Bill Stephens led us in an Old Yell for the class new cadet recruiting in the Kansas City area. He at Moody Hall that evening and fellowship at the of ’70 and then one for our class. Dinner that encouraged all of us to get involved with recruit-

’73

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CLASS NOTES Class of 1973 Reunion

Members of the class enjoyed lunch in Crozet Hall during the reunion. From left were Steven Smith, Scott McCarthy, Bob Poynor, Pete and Karen Walters, Tom Clark and Larry Cerruti.

“Last Man Standing” Reaffirmed Chris McGreer, M.B. Adelson, Dave Northcraft, Mary Adelson and Buck Harrison gathered “on the bricks” for a time of remembrance for the fallen BRs in the class of ’73 and to reaffirm the “last man standing” brick pledge.

Ed Hall and Mike Kelly standing in front of the class of ’73 bleachers, awaiting start of the parade during the 40th Reunion.

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Mike Kelly, class agent, and Bill Stephens, class historian, prepared to lead an Old Yell for the class during the reunion.

Enjoying skeet shooting during the class reunion were, from left, Ed Hall, Doug Basham, Mike Kelly, Corey Regelin and Mark Skupien.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES ing in our individual home area. It was great to see Dave and Susan and to hear Dave’s comments, which were followed by a rousing applause and standing ovation from the class! David Schwab received the award for traveling the furthest. Dave teaches school at a DODS facility near Garmisch, Germany. Two couples traveled from San Diego, California, to the reunion and also received gifts for traveling a long distance. They were Bob and Maureen Marks and Doug and Patty Muirheid. During the planning phase of the reunion, I was able to secure a number of new e-mail addresses, as well as some that I did not previously have. I now have 171 BRs in my VMI ’73 cyber corps e-mail addresses. So, if you aren’t getting messages from me, be sure you send your current e-mail address so I can add you to the lists. And in planning for the reunion, I heard from a lot of folks who were not going to be able to attend for various reasons, and I heard from a couple of guys I haven’t heard from in a very long time! Cary Yanagi still lives in California where work kept him away from the reunion. Cary said it continues to be a struggle teaching and doing the work you need to do with dwindling resources, but he wished us well and best wishes for a great reunion. Ray Burton likewise had issues with work and could not attend. He had hoped to get up to VMI on Saturday morning but, at the last minute, was unable to get away. Rich Bancke said he really wanted to attend the reunion, however his daughter, Laura, was due to have her first child on the reunion weekend. This was Rich’s second grandchild. Harrison Randall Lanning was born in Omaha, NE, at 7:11 a.m. on April 24th. Laura and Harrison are doing well. Rich lives in South Sioux City, NE. Congrats on the new grandson, Rich, and don’t forget to get him that appointment to the Institute! He and my latest grandchild could be Brother Rats! Brent Shumate sent his regards and best wishes for a wonderful reunion. He and his wife, Mary Ellen, had hoped to come, but there were a number of issues going on that they just couldn’t find a way around. John Sykes sent his regrets about not being able to attend and said to give everyone his best, as did Tuck Bowie. Tuck said he looked forward to reading about our antics and looking at the pictures. Rick and Rebecca Gribling said they would be traveling at the same time and were not available to attend. John Semmel likewise sent his regrets about not coming. John said that, after 37 years in the funeral service, he was in the final stages of selling his funeral home business, although he plans to keep his crematory and continue operating it. Obviously, this was a hectic time for him, and he said to pass on his best wishes to all. Richard Clark and his wife, Carole, were not

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able to attend, because they are having a second run at raising a family. He said they are blessed with now raising three grandkids who have a lot of activities keeping them busy. Therefore, Dick said they have put retirement and traveling on hold for the foreseeable future. He said he and Carole were blessed with good health and love their jobs and raising the grandkids. Mac Kirkpatrick was at the reunion, and Mac’s son, Clark, who is a third classman at VMI, joined us for the evening at Moody Hall on Friday night. Mac said that he trailered two bikes down to Lexington for VMI’s spring break, and he and Clark rode motorcycles down to Savannah and then on to the Florida Keys. They had a lot of fun on the trip going through St. Augustine, visiting the Everglades and riding a speed boat around the Keys. To top their trip, they hit a major snow storm on the way back to VMI and were forced to stop in Charlottesville. Unfortunately, Clark got boned heavily for coming back the next morning from spring break. But they had fun! Danny Williamson posted notes on Facebook when he and Terry were at VMI for their son, Ike’s, graduation. (Ike also joined us at Moody Hall on Friday of our reunion.) Danny watched the change of command parade and attended the New Market celebration. For this issue of the Review, I am pleased to announce that we have two winners of the “lost BR” award. I have already mentioned Richard Bancke, whom I have not heard from in a really long time. The other “lost BR” I heard from is Tom Murray. Richard wrote to me a few weeks before the reunion to say that hardly a day goes by in the 40 years since leaving the Institute that he doesn’t think about “those wonderful days.” Dick says that the one regret he has in life is not having the privilege to graduate with us. He had hoped to attend the reunion this spring, but as I said earlier, he had a grandchild born on that same weekend. Dick said that, since school, he has lived in Iowa and Nebraska. He and his wife, Mary Ann, currently live in South Sioux City, NE. They have three grown children who are all married, and they now have two grandchildren. Dick has spent his career in the educational field as a teacher, principal and school superintendent. He currently is an instructional coordinator with the South Sioux City Community Schools and an adjunct instructor at two local community colleges. Dick said they are doing well, and he sends special regards to his old roommates, Doug Huthwaite and Steve Tanner. It was great hearing from you, Dick. Please stay in touch. Tom Murray and his wife, Jane, live in Crawfordsville, IN, and he works at RR Donnelley in Indianapolis. Tom is a senior sales representative selling printing and has been with RR Donnelley for 23 years. He and Jane have been married for

21 years, and they have four children, two stepchildren and five grandkids. The kids are spread from California to Maine to Amsterdam. Tom said for us to have a great reunion and that he will keep us in his thoughts and prayers. Tom also said to tell M.B. Adelson that “I am alive and kicking. Hopefully, I can attend our 50th. By then, I will have taken Tiso’s Mr. Senior America title!” Look forward to staying in touch with you also, Tom. And speaking of Roland Tiso, he sent me a note this week [May] to say that he was getting ready to leave Afghanistan. I have asked for confirmation that he is home, but as of the deadline for this set of notes, I have not heard from him. We hope that he is home safe and sound and that was his last trip to Afghanistan. I could go on about the reunion and tell some stories about the late night crowds at the hospitality suite reliving the “Old Corps” tales. We had fun when at the Institute, and we’re still having fun now. I am sorry if you had to miss this big event and hope that you can make the next one. Check out the pictures in this issue, and thanks to Tom Clark and others who provided them. One other thing Tom did was put together a “booklet” of bios on all of our Brother Rats. If you did not send a bio to him, please do so in order for us to share information on our classmates and keep everyone up to date on what has gone on in the past 40 years. And if you are not on the class Facebook page, please join. Today is New Market Day. I have my colors and banner flying high, as I’m sure you do, as well. When you get these notes in August, it will be hot, and the new cadets will be matriculating. The Corps will be around 1,600 strong next year. I am sure that many of the folks attending the reunion, especially those who had not been to Lexington in quite some time, were absolutely amazed at the great things going on there. It is so different, yet so much the same. It is strong and the Corps is as great as ever. I am truly proud to be a part of this wonderful Institution. Next year will be the 150th anniversary of New Market and the 175th year since VMI was founded, so a lot to look forward to. You should have received a letter from me in June asking for a donation to the Institute. We have had a fairly low participation (percentage) rate as a class, and I’ve challenged the class to get us up from the current 26.7 percent participation rate to at least 40 percent this year in honor of our 40th Reunion. Every dollar collected from every donor counts in this participation rate. I have also challenged the class to have each person give at least $40 in honor of our reunion. We have a number of very good contributors to the Institute, and I thank you greatly. We also have a number of folks who have never contributed. I think that if you look back on your education and how it has prepared you for the life you have lived

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Class of 1973: Those who attended their 40th Reunion are listed in alphabetical order as follows: M.B. Adelson V, Douglas Basham, Douglas Baumgardner, Nolon Benson Jr., William Boland, Robert Bowman, Chad Brown, Michael Burke, Robert Bushnell, Neil Carlson, Lawrence Cerruti, James Chalkley, Thomas Clark III, John DiGiovanni, Paul English III, George Goodwin III, Garland Gray II, Timothy Gundlach, Edward Hall, L. Ashton Harrison III, Charlie Havasy, Douglas Huthwaite, Thomas Jennings, Thomas Jones IV, Frank Joyce, John Kearney, Michael Kelly, Michael Kenneally, Donald Kirkpatrick Jr., Dale Kitchen, John Landry, Stephen Lane, John Leon, Richmond Lykins Jr., Robert Marks, Earnest Marshall, Larry Mays Jr., Scott McCarthy, David McCown, Christopher McGreer, Maurice McNamara, William Midkiff, Douglas Muirheid, Tom Napier, David Northcraft, Douglass Payne, Arthur Pendleton, Chuck Peters, John Pinner III, Donald Poynor, Corey Regelin, Donald Reisch Jr., Milton Salter, David Schwab, Bob Sciacchitano, Stuart Seaton Jr., Gary Shope, Mark Skupien, Dean Smith, Steven Smith, William Spencer, William Stephens Jr., John Sterrett, Stephen Stith III, David Sutherland, Matthew Tignor, Malon Updike, Bob Vanderspiegel, Peter Walters, Mark Weiss, William Wells Jr., Hugh White, Daniel Williamson, David Woody, Klaus Worrell and Glenn Younes.

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40th Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April 26-27, 2013

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CLASS NOTES lock routinely in church when at home and saw Russ “Herbie” Harlow on his last visit home. Red stays in touch with Alan Vicory via e-mail. Red noted that Al had also joined the consultant ranks since his retirement from ORSANCO. Thanks for the note, Red, and be safe – watch your 6! I received an interesting picture from T.J. Wilson. I understand that there was no special occasion, just a target of opportunity. Kerri and T.J. had met Cameron (RC) Thompson at the Palms for lunch and then had gone to the Longwood-VMI game. Mike Morrissett had come up and was there with Tom Mason ’75 and Mark Hall ’75. T.J. ran into Gene Williams while there. Craig “Snapper” Carlock was there watching the game with Donnie Ross. Along walks Bill Shumate (not in the picture). Mark Prentice was there, as well as John White. So, they all just happened Snookie Parker to be on Post at the same time, and Kerri Wilson snapped the pic that T.J. provided for all to enjoy. I think that’s nine members of the class of 1974 present – a mini-reunion. Thanks, T.J.! Mike “Babytuck” Tucker has checked in after an extended period on “radio listening silence.” Greetings, Brother Rats, Mike is alive and well in Shawnee, OK, living Spring is in the air. It’s been an eventful three the dream of retirement for the last four years. months for the Parker clan. Daughter Olivia finSabra, Mike’s wife, is finishing her doctorate at ished her freshman year at UNC-CH, secured a Oklahoma State University where his daughter, job (yeah) for the summer in Atlantic Beach, NC, Katie, is attending and scheduled to graduate and is on the debutante circuit this summer. I’m (Mike hopes) next year. BTW, Mike is no longer writing these notes on Mother’s Day … Marla without his class coin – FYI! CHECK SIX Baand Olivia are in the Benefactors Club Tent on the bytuck Michael R. Tucker Lt. Col. USAFR (Ret) 17th tee box at the TPC Sawgrass, compliments CP 405/388-0860. of neighbors in our Jacksonville Beach condo On day eight, Phil Parker found himself on community. I went to the second round TPC his porch, overlooking the woods on a beautiful and spent time in the Patriots Outpost (tent that warm sunny morning. Day eight of what? Eight overlooks the 17 and 18th). What a finish – Sergio mornings prior, Phil received a new left hip. After Garcia collapses on 17 (three in the water), and four years of steadily increasing joint pain in his Tiger surges to win. Life is good! Highlight for left hip and realizing what a crotchety old man he this set of class notes was the alumni sailing trip was becoming, it was beyond time to have it done. to the French West Indies. Class of His visit with Tom Parker really ’74 had the largest contingent on the helped; Tom had his hip resurfaced ship at seven BRs. Marla and I joined and was resoundingly positive about Donnie and Barbara Ross, John and getting it done. Phil said he woke up Suzzane Pate, Charley and Debbie the morning after surgery and was Banning, T.J. and Kerri Wilson, thrilled to realize that, in spite of the and Pat and Sue Flynn. (Judge and surgery and incision pain, the hip joint Rhoda Nottingham were supposed pain was already gone! Tom Parker join the cruise, but last minute busiprovided these words of encourageness and personal circumstances ment: “Walk: Of all the things I did, required their presence at home.) this helped me get back to normal the What a trip – Barbados, St. Barth, most. Used a walker, then crutches, St. Kitts, St. Maarten … high-end then a cane. You may not be able to ship, great crowd and too much fun. get outside due to the weather, but I Class of 1974: Attending Longwood-VMI weekend in See a group photo with these notes, would walk up to the corner and strike March 2013, were, from left, Craig Carlock, John Wilson as well as in the Association News the stop sign pole with my crutch to ’13, T.J. Wilson, Gene Williams, Cameron Thompson, section of this Review. make the biggest ‘ping’ possible: Mark Hall ’75, Mike Morrissett, Tom Mason ’75, Donnie I received a note describing the small victories, celebrated. Thanks for Ross and John White. Seen on Post but not pictured First Annual Room 111 Reunion the e-mail, best of good luck on the were Mark Prentice, Bill Shumate and photographer Dinner at Eagles in Kingsmill (Wilrecovery and congrats on getting this Kerri Wilson. liamsburg) on Feb. 23, 2013. Atfar. Tom” So, having returned from a and then look at the Institute today and see how well it continues this process, you will be proud to give. As we get older and more of us retire, hopefully some of our living expenses will ease up as well. So, now is the time to pay back some to VMI. They count on us. Nearly 27 percent of VMI’s funding comes from alumni, and more than one-third of the Corps relies on financial support from our donations. And everyone who was there in April got a renewal of that feeling of pride and honor in what it means to be a VMI graduate. Take care, and be safe out there. Hope to see you some this fall at the football games. In the Bonds, Mike

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tendees: George and Anna Van Laethem, Mike and Mary Pat Hogan, Don and Carolyn Sharpe, and Chip and Cathy Beaman. The last time the four were all together with wives was the night of George’s retirement from the Army in June 1994. As reported by Chip Beaman, “As you can imagine, there was a lot of catching up to do. George has been battling some health problems in recent months as a result of a gall bladder operation last fall but now appears to be on the road to recovery. George and Anna are understandably very proud of their daughter, Ashley, who is in law school and engaged to be married. Mike and Mary Pat now have three grandchildren and are doing well. Their daughter and son-in-law have moved back to Newport News and are temporarily living with Mike and Mary Pat. I’m sure that makes for a lively household. Don and Carolyn are enjoying life in Goochland. They now have one grandchild. Don likes the fact that he can spoil the heck out of his grandson and then just give him back to his parents. Cathy and I are doing well. Our big news is that we will become the grandparents of twins sometime in July. Needless to say, we can hardly wait.” Understand all had a great time and are already planning the next reunion dinner. Dinner was with wives – not sure how they didn’t get a picture with the wives to send in. What is up with that? Don Ferrell has surfaced on a farm near Appomattox, VA, or “The Surrender Grounds,” as it known locally. I understand Don is planning to make the reunion in April 2014, if anyone is looking for a wingman! Thanks for the note, Don. See you in April, if not sooner. In late February/early March, Red Undercoffer returned from Tripoli only to depart a few days early due to threats against international air traffic leaving Libya. Red reports all was well in the valley near Lexington. He sees Craig “Snap” Car-

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CLASS NOTES walk down the drive with his walker keep Ellett Smith and his family in and smacking the mailbox and makour thoughts and prayers. Ellett’s ing a loud PING, Phil is now trying younger brother, Basil Smith ’78, to convince his wife, Randy, that he has been diagnosed with advanced, is no longer a crotchety old man but metastatic pancreatic cancer. He is rather a virile young stud … Good undergoing aggressive chemotheraluck on that! Hope you are at 100% py, and the medical team is at least soon, Phil! able to control his pain to a manageKudos to Paul Van Doren! As a able level. Ellett spent two weeks in recent keynote speaker, Paul told Chattanooga with his brother and is the story of how the Composite planning another trip soon. At this Health Care System Integrated Master point, Ellett simply asks that all of us Schedule played a large part in DOD keep him, his brother, and their entire overcoming great difficulties to sucfamily in our thoughts and prayers. cessfully complete the $1 billion, In very recent news, Ronnie NorClass of 1974: Attending the Room 111 First Annual Re10-year deployment of the complex man put out a call for support of the union Dinner at Kingsmill in Williamsburg, Virginia, were, CHCS to 526 medical treatment annual College Orientation Workfrom left, George Van Laethem, Mike Hogan, Don Sharpe facilities worldwide. The GAO gave shop fundraising golf tournament in and Chip Beaman. credit to “two DOD officials [who] Richmond. COW is an organization ensured the deployment’s success run by Gene Williams ’74 which by providing leadership and using seeks to send a group of minority fundamental information management male high school students to a fourpractices.” Well done, Paul! week, rather intensive workshop Rich Forbes spent the last weekend at VMI each summer. Ronnie is in April at the Big “I” attending the involved in the program, and his call VMI Alumni Rugby Game which was for support was answered by Sam played on the new North Post pitch. In and Robin Moultrie who sponsored a surprise pre-game event, the coach a class of ’75 foursome. Ronnie then called all players and both sidelines looked for volunteers to make up to the center of the pitch where the this magnificent foursome. The call team took a knee, and Rich’s son, was answered by Chip Louthan, Class of 1974: Pirates of the Caribbean were, from left, Sue and Pat Flynn, T.J. and Kerri Wilson, Suzanne and Chris (2011), proposed to (a very Lane Pritchard, Steve Chapin and John Pate, Barbara and Donnie Ross, Debbie and Charley surprised) Miss Katherine Coe, the Lane’s brother, Cham. From what I Banning and Snookie Parker. Not pictured: Judge and daughter of David and Darden Coe of can tell, Steve produced his legendRhoda Nottingham, who bowed out of the trip at the last Raleigh, NC. The Coe family was in ary inhuman drives, and Chip was minute, and Marla Parker, who was below deck – feeling attendance, and tears were abundant. unbelievable up close, but Lane a little woozy due to rough seas. Commandant Col. Tommy Trumps had the shot of the day, placing the ’79 (an All-Army rugby teammate) ball 18 inches from the cup from a and his wife hosted a post-game BBQ at their interested and do care. I know e-mail addresses fairway bunker 160 yards out. I don’t know how residence following the game, where the newly have a half-life of about six months. Keep us much is absolutely believable, but I know a great engaged couple were congratulated by the VMI current. Send your updated e-mail address to me time was had by all, for a very worthy cause. rugby community. Rich reports that, once again, at snookieparker1974@earthlink.net, Charley In another athletic endeavor, Randy Frank celVMI demonstrates that it is more than just a school Banning at cbanning@cox.net or Kevin Nettrour ebrated his 60th birthday by running his first-ever … it is a family … it is a way of life. According (our webmaster) at nettrour@accessus.net. Check marathon in Eugene, OR. He completed the entire to Rich, although the alumni were allowed to win out the website. Send me a note. Yada, Yada, Yada marathon in record time (for him). Speaking of (56-52, I think), the Keydets looked amazing – and Yaba Daba Dooooo! marathons, I would be remiss if I did not menWarm regards, with more athletic talent than Rich has ever seen tion that Billy Hunter was present at the Boston Snookie in the past. Congrats to Miss Katherine Coe – well Marathon, watching and supporting his wife, done, Chris! Lee, who ran in the event. Fortunately, Lee and Reminder to all – plan to attend our 40th ReArt Nunn III Billy were clear of the finish line area before the union in April 2014. Reminder to those BRs who bombs exploded, and for that, we are all thankful. attended our 35th Reunion – don’t come alone. Bill Turpin checked in from the great state of Bring a wingman to the 40th. Reunion informaTexas. He was looking forward to plans for visits tion will be forthcoming soon. It’s going to be a from Guy Conte, Charlie Collins, Rick Davison, good one – be there! Harley Myler and Bill Creighton. There was CLASS AGENT PLEA! Don’t be caught some talk about tequila tasting or toasting or Let us start these notes with words of con- something. I will look forward to hearing about without your class coin. If you need one, send $10 (cost of coin and postage). Please forward dolence to Tony Farry who lost his mother it, assuming somebody retains some semblance any news regarding births, deaths, illnesses, and Doug Harvey who lost his father in recent of a memory of what actually happened. marriages and other significant events concern- months. Our thoughts go out to Tony, Doug and Heather Janes is starting the application process ing your family and/or careers. Brother Rats are their families. All of our Brother Rats should also for a Ph.D. program.

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CLASS NOTES Rick (Dawg) Law is most of the way recovered from knee replacement surgery but otherwise reported that he has nothing to report. Dan and Laura Schultz still live in McLean, VA, and Dan is still running a line of business at Lockheed Martin called ship and aviation systems. Dan and Laura have been married for 38 years and both turned 60 this year. They spent this last New Year’s with John and Cathy Maples at the Marshall [’901] House in Leesburg, VA. Dan had won the event at an auction, and the entire Marshall staff opened up the house. John and Dan got to sit in the general’s chair and drink scotch. Dan claims that he now knows how old he is, since one their twin daughters is a major in the Marines and had just returned from a six-month deployment to Liberia. Chris Smart sent a note just a couple of hours after returning from a recruiting trip to Gurgaon, India (on the outskirts of Delhi), where he met with Cairn India about the position of senior petrophysical advisor. Chris’ former company, Apache, with whom he was posted in Buenos Aires, is facing real problems in country. Argentina is going through yet another round of financial difficulties, largely brought on by trying to copy Hugo Chavez’s social policies. He pulled the plug in mid-March and returned to Texas to play a little golf but is now planning his next assignment in India. India is an exciting opportunity. The housing is fantastic, and his flat will be next to a world class golf course. Chris does not think the culture shock will be as difficult as he experienced moving from Texas to Kuwait back in 2000, but it will still be a “walk on the wild side.” In the last 14 years, Chris has realized that he can work in just about any environment. If one thinks back to our matriculation day some 40-something years ago, that was the preparation he needed. Tad MacGowan is enjoying life in Annapolis. His daughter, Ginny, has just graduated from Georgia Tech, after spending her final semester in Europe. Other than that, Tad is spending time with his family, playing tennis, kayaking and bow hunting. He is also hoping to get back into sailing this summer. I received a really nice note from Tom Ridley. Tom has been thinking about writing for several years and finally sat down and did it. It is really great to hear from someone who has been out of touch for a while. All is well in Texas, as Tom is staying busy looking for oil and gas. Much has happened in Tom’s life over the past 40 years. He has two fantastic daughters from his first marriage. His youngest had a good friend, and Tom ended up married to her mother, Celia. They have been married 12 years. She has two daughters also, so Tom has been “surrounded by hormones” for some time. The two oldest are in Tyler. Tom’s oldest works for him, and his wife’s oldest is with AT&T, doing “some kind of com-

2013-Issue 3

puter stuff.” Their youngest are in Austin. Tom’s is with a commercial real estate company, and Celia’s youngest is in banking. She is the only one married so far. The big event was in Austin in January, and she actually married a young man from Winchester, VA. They met when she was working in D.C., and she convinced him to move to Austin. The three other girls all have significant others, and Tom is sure they will all decide to get married at the same time, which has him financially terrified! Tom has not been in touch with any BRs for quite a while, but he would like to change that. He invites anyone who gets close to Tyler, TX, to let him know, and he will whip up some of his famous barbeque! Going to have to make time for that. Chuck Wohlrab is still happily ensconced in the UAE, working in Abu Dhabi. His job is to manage the configuration of doctrine manuals for the UAE Land Forces, and he also manages the translation process, including a gang of about 30 translators and typists. His contract is being extended and may include being able to bring the wife and kids over. Deb and the kids are doing fine. Conor started his sophomore year in high school this past February, and Seren is an eighth grader. Older son Philip is finalizing his civilian certification as an EMT. Believe it or not, a combat medic with two tours in Iraq gets no constructive credit for EMT certification in Virginia. He is now doing ride-alongs with the Lexington Volunteer Rescue Service. Daughter Kirkland continues to work at Sigma Nu HQ. Allen Morgan keeps popping up when you least expect him. In an extremely kind gesture, Allen drove by my house while I was recuperating from knee surgery, picked me up and took me to watch a Keydet football spring scrimmage. That was really nice and thoughtful of him. Allen and Sandy had spent the prior evening with Tom and Judy Baur and Rico Soares. The following weekend, he returned to Lexington to watch the final spring scrimmage, where he sat with Tom and Judy, as well as Chip Louthan. Tom saw a large dog running around the stands, so he assumes Dave Schuyler was probably there somewhere. Speaking of Tom Baur and Dave Schuyler, both of these fine upstanding gentlemen are retiring at the end of this academic year – Tom from VMI and Dave from the Roanoke County School District. Someone who cannot even begin to think about retiring yet is – well – me. Man, I am really depressed now! Ben Vanderberry is a veritable font of information for this issue. He recently talked to Robert Mills about “the normal Mills stuff and wine.” Harry and Jodie McKnight’s daughter got married in June in Florida. Ben saw Yulee Richardson at a funeral for a young attorney from the class of ’84. At Easter, Ben the son led Ben the father to believe that the disturbance in the force

was over, and he would be a private next year! But fate is cruel. He was named first sergeant of Golf Company next year. Just love that boy’s sense of humor! Anne keeps asking Ben (the father) what a first sergeant does, and of course, he has no clue. Well, she says, “Where will he march in parades?” Again our poor Brother Rat, Ben, has no clue. OK, maybe Ben is not a great font of information about the duties of a first sergeant, but he does a great job of staying in touch with his Brother Rats. Doug Harvey and Chip Louthan are playing on the same church softball team, along with Doug’s son (class of 2007); Ken Dickerson and his son, Rob Dickerson (VMI co-captain and centerfielder on the VMI baseball team); and Chip’s son, Matt. Doug has officially retired from college football officiating. He is still refereeing high school games in the Richmond area, but after 32 years, he decided to call college quits. He says that he will miss seeing Harry McKnight and Reuben Terry ’67 on the field on Saturdays, but they will stay in touch. John Plunkett reports that life is still nice out there on the left coast. He welcomed the first grandchild who is a little girl. Suffice it to say that having had three boys, that little girl owns him! John also had the pleasure recently of watching his youngest son graduate law school and go off the payroll. He is an assistant DA with the Orange County prosecutor’s office. John went down to watch his first jury trial. It was a culminating experience for a parent to watch the youngest stand in front of jury and state, “My name is Matt Plunkett, and I represent the People of the State of California.” That was a “oh, wow” moment for a very proud John. Charlie Collins wrote and basically confirmed the earlier note from Bill Turpin that the two of them are planning a get-together with Guy Conte for fun and frivolity. The only difference is that Bill referenced consumption of tequila, and Charlie mentioned consumption of beer. Does it really matter? The only question is will anyone remember enough about the gathering to relay information for the next set of class notes? Greg Diamontopulos is thrilled beyond words with the graduation of his son, Peter, class of 2013. You may recall that Peter had some difficult physical challenges following an accident earlier in the year. He has conquered those challenges and is scheduled to graduate on time. Mike Mulligan retired this past February after 38 years with the federal government. His last assignment was with NSA. Mike had some great experiences but is happy to have that behind. Currently, Mike is enjoying some leisure time with the spousal unit (i.e., Teresa) at his home near Gettysburg. They went on The VMI Alumni Association clipper ship cruise in March and had a blast! It was their third cruise on that ship through

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CLASS NOTES the VMIAA. Mike is also doing some part-time volunteer work with the Gettysburg Convention Bureau in preparation for the 150th anniversary of the battle. It is likely that Len Riedel is ramping up for that, too. Fred Edwards is still serving as assistant district attorney near Houston. Fred has had one hip replaced, and he is looking to have the other side done in the fall, after he returns from a Canadian mission trip in the northwest. According to Dave, his doctor blames his hip problems on, and I quote, “jumping off the third stoop a couple times, airborne training and fatness.” Dave sent a picture of his son and daughter standing with a view of Alcatraz, which apparently made Dave nostalgic for his days at the Institute. Dave’s daughter, Rachel, is a Ph.D. student at Texas A&M, and his son, Jonathan, is a sophomore at Stanford University. Bo and Nancy Temple are still in Springfield, VA, while Bo continues his post-retirement job search. He has lots of fishing lines out and is just waiting for some bites. Bo was recognized by the American Society of Civil Engineers on 21 March in Arlington, VA, with a lifetime achievement award in government. Also, on 19 April in Richmond, Bo was recognized by the Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation as one of eight “Living Legacies” (emphasis on the Living!). Well deserved, Bo, and congratulations! Last, but certainly not least, Gary Taylor checked in from New Orleans. Gary retired as president of one of Entergy’s operating companies. I think his new e-mail address, which reads “gonegolfing75,” kind of tells the story. Except for having to recover from an unfortunate accident involving home repair, a ladder and a rapid altitude reduction, he is absolutely loving his retirement and is spending time with his family, including his grandchildren. He still finds time to chair the annual United Way drive in the New Orleans area. Gary and Becky took a trip up to VMI earlier this year, and it was the first time he had seen the Institute in many years. Many things have changed. He went into the physics building, but according to Gary, the only thing he recognized was the front door! I should mention that Gary and Becky were at VMI, in part, to participate in a VMI Foundation meeting, where they learned a great deal about what has been going on and what is planned for the near future. It is with great gratitude that I mention that Gary and Becky Taylor made a very nice gift to VMI through the Foundation. I think that is about it for this set of notes. Be on the lookout for information regarding a minireunion tentatively scheduled for the weekend of 13-15 September. Guy Conte will be pulling things together and will be getting the word out soon. Be advised, if we do not have your e-mail address, you may not get the information. So, once

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again, I beg all of you who are not on the class e-mail list to send me yours as soon as possible. All the best, my Brothers. Stay safe, stay happy and stay in touch. In the Spirit, Art

’76

William Bhatta

Brother Rats, These notes were written on 15 May. Congratulations to 178 Brother Rats! On 15 May 1976 at 11:00 a.m., you began walking across the graduation stage to receive your VMI diploma. Greg Speaker made a brief visit to the Institute in March – he was on his way to a reunion of Staunton Military Academy graduates in Staunton, VA. In his note to me, he also said he just discovered a class of 1976 ring being auctioned on eBay. The ring belonged to Chip Deyerle (Chip passed away unexpectedly three years ago on July 7, 2010). The seller procured the ring through another auction. Unfortunately, she was not interested in returning it without me trying to outbid everyone else. It eventually sold for $1,775.00. To my knowledge, it is the second class ring to be auctioned on eBay. The first belonged to Pete Gabriel. It was discovered on

March 6, 2006, by Seth Berkowitz ’08 and Keith Jones ’08 after Pete had lost it. The eBay seller eventually returned it to him. After I told Greg the ring belonged to Chip, he said “This makes me think I need to come up with some definitive plans for my ring. I will either be buried with it or donate it to the Alumni Association. “Well, Greg just gave me a great opportunity to segue into describing what the VMI Memorial Ring Program can do for you. It was established by the VMI Foundation last year to provide alumni and their families the opportunity to donate class rings to the VMI Foundation. The VMI Foundation arranges the sale of all donated rings for any precious metals or semi-precious stones with RMC2 (a precious metals refiner). The ring is completely destroyed by the refinery to ensure it cannot be re-sold. The return generated by the disposal of a donor’s ring is received and deposited in the VMI Memorial Ring Fund. The fund is used to help defray the cost of a ring for a cadet in financial need. (I will send you more information about the VMI Memorial Ring program in my next snail mail to you.) Received a great update from Dan Rivera. He has been a certified financial advisor for the past 20 years, and several years ago, he received his MBA from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is very proud of his stepgranddaughter and two stepsons – one works at Medtronic (a medical technology company), and the other works at JP Morgan. Dan said, “Moved

Class of 1976: Dexter Gilliam and Wayne Eastham at Spanish Wells, Bahamas, in February 2013. There were several Facebook comments about their adventures.

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CLASS NOTES around and had some great fancy jobs that allowed us to raise the boys and granddaughter in comfort.” Dan survived a fight with cancer 11 years ago and currently works in the investment industry in Bermuda. Judging from his note, he plans to stay there. Hopefully, I can convince him to return to the United States for a couple of class reunions! From Jim Bowers: “To all my Brother Rats out there – here I am.” Jim has worked mainly in the construction trades since graduation. He has been a floor coverings sales specialist with Lowes in Hampton, VA, for the past seven years. He married Neta – a local girl – 34 years ago and sings tenor at St. Andrews Episcopal Church in Newport News. Jim’s wife rides horses, and he enjoys his hound dogs, as well as sailing. He said, “I plan to work until 65, and that’s it!” When that time comes, I think Jim and Neta want to travel across the United States to “see more of this great country.” After 35 years, American Electric Power (AEP) offered Doug Fitchett an opportunity he could not refuse, so he volunteered to take early retirement in February. He said, “I guess that really means I will be looking for work to occupy my time in the not-too-distant future. But for the next few months, my plans are to work around the house, read and get some exercise.” Doug enjoyed his career with AEP. One of his job highlights was working with the Department of Energy to help shape the future of the nation’s electrical distribution grid. Doug said he recently “stopped by the ‘I.’ Wow, a lot has changed. Guess I will have to make another visit soon to fully explore [it].” The following notes should have appeared in February; my apologies for publishing them late. Watching the state of the union address and listening to Metallica must have blanked out a portion of my brain. John and Teri Coleman sent me a Christmas card/note – a format I plan to copy this Christmas. It is the best annual update I have ever received, written with the fewest words: “2012 brought us a new grandson … Family Reunion in Fort Lauderdale … barbeques by the river in Virginia … our 40th high school reunion (we were high school sweethearts, graduating together) … our 36th wedding anniversary … numerous trips to see kids and grandkids … Thanksgiving at home in Virginia … Christmas in Texas … and more blessings than we deserve! 2013 will bring us another granddaughter in March! God is good, and we are so thankful! We wish you and yours an abundantly blessed new year!” A quick update from Kurt and Cindy Luckenbill: Kurt is still managing client financial resources at RBC Wealth Management. They were able to visit Charlie and Ellen Archer last November and their youngest daughter blessed them with their eighth grandchild last April – Sarah Elizabeth.

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Ted and Melanie Mouras updated me on their home and adjacent property after being damaged in last year’s Monument Fire: “After many months of repair work and extensive clearing of burned landscaping, we can probably state the ‘recovery’ phase is complete, though the loss of over 300 trees and 1,000 bushes certainly makes things look different around here.” Ted said, “I am watching two of our 47 burned-out neighbors rebuild their homes. The guy living just west of us, putting up what looks like a White Castle on stilts, certainly makes us wish for some building codes.” Despite the grueling work, they managed to skip town and headed for France. They spent several days in Paris and were able to drive to Normandy and tour the D-Day battlefields. They said it was “quite an experience, especially the American cemetery there. The locals in Normandy are still much appreciative of Allied efforts on their behalf, and the sight of French, American, Canadian and British flags flying together is not something you see every day, anywhere else.” In my last notes, I told you that Ron and Ulla LaGrone had settled back at home in Alabama. Ron’s teaching job at the Baltic Defense College ended last October. Well, they are both learning how to cope with retirement. Ulla is doing volunteer work, while Ron – keeping his options open and taking his time deciding about the future – is planning home improvement projects. Grigg and Cindy Mullen took a trip out to Pullman, WA, to visit their son, Andrew, and his girlfriend, Melissa. Andrew manages the Washington State University bookstore. Melissa has a year of classes and a one-year internship to complete before she gets her Ph.D. in clinical psychology. Their other son, Grigg III, married Accacia Flanagan this past May. Their wedding took place on the hill top across the road from the Mullen’s home in Lexington, VA. Grigg got the green light for an outdoor instructional shelter at the new VMI rifle range to be built in the timber frame style with cadet labor. After years of doing similar projects in the area, now there is timber framing on VMI property. Speaking of property, Cindy managed to get their guest house up and running, and she is waiting for you to visit. If you plan to be in the Lexington area, check out this link: www.vrbo.com/436692. Jim and Tish Dittrich had a great year visiting family in New Jersey, Illinois, as well as their four kids living in the Denver-Boulder, CO, area. Jim reported his 2012 un-highlight was being thrown from Jim (the horse) and breaking two ribs. The windmill was turning, the dog jumped out of a bush, and Jim (the horse) went one way and Jim (the BR) went the other. Jim said it was the “worst pain I ever had, but I healed quickly. I was riding three weeks later.” Jim and Tish are still members of the fire department which can be challenging. Jim said, “We had a 400-plus-pound guy flip his

truck on a curve while he balanced a bucket of fried chicken in his lap. At the accident scene, chicken was everywhere. It was 100 degrees out, this fellow was in agony with apparent internal injuries, and he was extremely hungry. Lifting him to a gurney nearly did me in, with chicken pieces dropping everywhere as we moved him.” Finally, I hope you received my e-mail in February about Curtis and Donna Butterworth. Thirteen years ago, Curtis stopped practicing law and started pastoral work at a local church in Hopewell, VA. Donna left her job six years later to join him. Recently, they started Grace & Peace Ministries, a “ministry which would combine teaching, visitation and compassionate care … primarily to the elderly, disabled, shut-in and poor.” The ministry’s donor income is $1200$1700/month, but it needs approximately $4000/ month to sustain its efforts. The Butterworth’s have used their personal resources to fill the gap from month to month, but they cannot sustain this expense forever. Their organization can use your help (and contributions are tax deductible). Please support them any way you can. You can contact Curtis at GraceandPeaceMinistries@comcast. net or at this address: 3504 N. Colonial Drive, Hopewell, VA 23860-1755.

’77

Steve Neas

By the time this reaches you, it will be the middle of summer. Many of you will be either preparing for a vacation, in the middle of a vacation or wishing yours wasn’t over so quickly. As I write, we are still in the throes of spring: the dogwoods are blooming and all is green. We are waiting to plant our tomatoes, since frost is predicted for New Market Day. I sent an e-mail to many of you announcing the death of Brother Rat Norm Stevens. Norm died of a heart attack on March 29, 2013. Both Bert Deacon and Keith Gibson were in touch with Norm during his illness and were of great assistance to him. If you did not get an e-mail from me, that is because I do not have an updated e-mail address for you. Please forward it to me. I promise I will not bombard you with all sorts of meaningless drivel. I do find, in this position, events arise that may be of interest to the class and will forward them to you. If you do not want to be part of that loop, please let me know. John Coe is hanging it up after a long career in the State Department. He tells me that, after completing his assignment in Egypt, he is retiring from government service and moving to Fort Worth, TX. He must have heard about the strong

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CLASS NOTES class ties in the area. John Quackenbush, Marty Manteuffel, Bill Harlow and Mike Freeman all hang out there. John, I suggest you start greasing up your elbow. I see much beer drinking in your future. In other big news among the annals of ’77, it is now official that Soon-to-Be Doctor Chris Manno is now Doctor Chris Manno. He has received his doctorate in English from Texas Christian University. My sources tell me that VMI’s own Tom Davis ’64, Ph.D., guided Chris through his dissertation and defense. Thanks, Tom. I know Chris is very honored and grateful for your involvement. As an aside, it was suggested that we invite all our professors to the next reunion. Teaching is a thankless endeavor. One pours his heart out to all those students for years and never really knows to what affect. Spending time with Super ’77 may inform them that their efforts did amount to something. I recently saw an American Airlines pilot in a hotel. I asked him if he knew Chris. He looked at me, then stared out into space, and said, “Yes, I know Chris. He is interesting.” I have been trying to decide how to explain to you all about Don Browder and his photographs. I am at a loss for words. The best I can do is to say that Don obtained a modeling gig in Thailand. Yes, a modeling gig! There are a series of photographs with Don posing with a gorgeous Thai woman hanging onto his arm. I think they are advertising tires, pipes or something. Don’s VMI ring is conspicuously displayed in each photo. Don does look great, if you happen to notice him. There is one photograph in the series where Don is standing with BR Phataralaoha, both looking like big money. Don has been somewhat evasive about the photos. Maybe we can get him to give a presentation at our next reunion. Chris Nash and I have been in close communication recently. I sent an e-mail to many of you with a letter from Chris attached. Chris is promoting the COW program at VMI. COW stands for College Oriented Workshop, put on by Gene Williams ’74. COW brings high schoollevel minority students to VMI for four weeks of intensive training. It is a great program. If you would like to support this program, you can make your contributions to the VMI Foundation designating the contribution to COW. Sid Alvis is alive and well. Sid is living in Huntersville, NC, which is north of Charlotte, and is working with Siemens Energy, designing and testing things that probably require Laplace transform and Wheatstone bridge calculations! Sid and Sandy are raising four babies – those being a Boston terrier-poodle mix, a puggle and two Jack Russell terriers, all of which cost less than real children. Mark Bryant is on the move. Mark and Caryl are have been relocated to Hawaii. Mark is working for Booz Allen and will be supporting

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the Special Operations Command at Fort Smith. Mark, start saving your pennies. Half way around the world is not an excuse to miss the 40th Reunion. It will be a check formation for you. Mark, I plan to have you cook a pig in a pit, Hawaiianstyle, with banana leaves for our Thursday night shindig before the next reunion. We will expect hula lessons. Max Floyd sent me an e-mail. Last issue, I reported that Max was living in Russia. Max clarified that he is on Sakhalin Island, Russia. I looked up Sakhalin Island on Google Earth. It is nothing but white with plenty of mountains. Max and his wife did make a trip to Myanmar and traveled extensively. During his travels, he was able to have dinner with Phataralaoha in Bangkok. John Quackenbush has retired from Homeland Security. Do you feel less safe? John is now working for DynCorp in Fort Worth. The last time we corresponded, he was headed to Afghanistan to assist with the drawdown. Quack is still rebuilding cars. Mark Hunt and wife, Mary Lou, have just recently built a house at Ford’s Colony in Williamsburg. Mark is working for the Facility Energy Program at Langley. He says that his new house has all the energy efficiency whistles and bells. Mary Lou’s father is Col. Louis Hundley ’47, formerly of the VMI Biology Department. Mark reports that Rich and Dianne Howell are well. Ralph George is doing his best to sell steel in Palmetto, FL. Ralph informed me that Jim Bentley was attempting to put together a team to assist J.D. Johnson with the recent unpleasantness in Korea. Ralph declined thinking that J.D. probably had enough trouble on his hands. I never heard if Jim actually recruited a team and made the trip, but I do know that things have quieted down somewhat on the peninsula. Joe Brown lives on Signal Mountain Tennessee. My sister, Sally, also lives there. Sally saw Joe and noticed his VMI hat. Sally asked Joe if he knew me. Remembering that a cadet will not lie, cheat or steal, Joe felt compelled to admit that he did. Thank you, Joe … I know it must have been painful. Mike Conaway is living large in Virginia Beach. Mike works for Tetra Tech. He sends his regards. By now, I feel certain that Mike has his garden in full production and been boating a time or two. Brother Rat Tim Mitchell is laid up with a leg problem. He will be that way until October. I guess we are all getting old. One night in 1980 during a live fire training exercise at the Fort Erwin National Training Center, a machine gunner on an M60 tank spotted an APC down range and opened fire. The main gunner sighted the APC and was just about to send his round down range when some nut ran directly into his sights among all the tracers, waving a flashlight. The gunner stood

down. The “nut” was our own Lt. Tim Mitchell, and the APC under fire was manned. Tim saved the lives of the occupants of that APC and was awarded the Soldiers Medal for putting himself between the tank and the APC. This is another example of the great deeds of our Brother Rats. It is a great honor to tell the stories of our class. You are all heroes in one way or another. I am told that many of you enjoy keeping up with the activities and the whereabouts of the class. While you may think that what you do and where you live are dull and unimportant, others want to know. Please send me your updates. I know you are humble and do not wish to toot your own horn, so send me the stories you have of our Brother Rats that you know. I will do my best to tell it in the right light. I bet even J.J. Marshall has actually done something newsworthy!

’78

Tom Brown

Greetings, Brother Rats, As you read this, our 35th reunion will be just weeks away. I look forward to seeing you there. Now, for the news from around the class. I made an error in the last set of notes leading you to believe that Chip Schelhorn went skiing for three weeks, when time would only allow for one. He did enjoy that time, though. Chip’s daughter graduated with her honors AA degree from PBSC and will be attending Florida State University in fall 2013. He asked how many high school graduates do you know who get over 75 credits completed in high school, and they will all transfer to FSU? She was accepted into the BSN program at FSU and will be finished in three years. Chip’s parents flew in from Alexandria for the graduation. They were going on a family cruise for a week to the western Caribbean as part of her graduation present. Bob Fricke checked in, saying he is still in Colorado Springs and trying to become a teacher. Federal contracting is not happening for people with his background, and he recently started and completed an M.Ed. degree. Bob says he will probably be the last guy in our class to get an advanced degree. He is currently substitute teaching and waiting on the state of Colorado for his teaching license. He has been waiting five months now. Bob says if he cannot get his license, maybe he’ll start selling pot which is now legal there. His certification will be for social studies, but he’s trying to get a certification for German, as well. Jeff Yates sends big news that his son, Tyler, graduated May 16 from VMI (class of 2013) with a civil and environmental engineering degree.

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CLASS NOTES Tyler has accepted a job with Norfolk Dredging. Haiti on Monday, 11 Feb., spent the night in Port brigade and a Marine regiment. All the bad guys Jeff is very proud! au Prince and travelled to Hinche (a three-hour and civilians needed to drive a live brigade and Jim Simons sends along a report on his ongoing ride in a school-type bus into the mountains). They all of the tactical command and control systems support of the VMI Cadet Fishing Club. As has stayed in an agriculture school, sleeping in the in the field (covering an area slightly larger than been the case for the past several years, the VMI dorms and eating in the dining facility. Wednesday Connecticut). That sounds like fun, Mike. Cadet Fishing Club conducted a local Tim Berkhimer sent big news that stream clean-up project in conjunche has now joined Dewberry Consultion with VMI’s annual Spring FTX. tants, Inc. as their Debris Program On April 6th, Cadet Fishing Club manager and has been deployed to members – under the able command New Jersey since mid-March. Tim is of Col. Lee Dewald, reinforced managing the Waterway Debris Rewith cadet “volunteers” generously moval Project, Southern Region (Atprovided by Superintendent Peay lantic City south, around Cape May, ’62 and accompanied by several lothen north to the Delaware Bridge). cal alumni supporters – drove out to He is charged with overseeing both Back Run Creek in the southern end the contractor and monitoring firm of Rockbridge County, where they hired by the New Jersey Department then proceeded to fill several U.S. of Environmental Protection. It keeps Forest Service dump trucks with him busy seven days per week, about trash, discarded tires and other refuse. 12-13 hours per day. Tim says he sure To Jim’s utter amazement, a number is learning a lot about the migratory Class of 1978: Dave Mecredy, right, with his translator, John, and teammate, Junior, during Mecredy’s Haiti of passing motorists stopped to offer and nesting habits of ospreys and bald mission trip. their thanks for the cadets’ efforts. eagles! They are both threatened and (Now if these people could only convince their neighbors to stop dumping their trash in the creek in the first place – editorial comment.) The Cadet Fishing Club even received a little recognition in the press for their efforts this time, as a photo and a brief article detailing the event appeared in the online edition of the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries Outdoor Report shortly thereafter. Mark Seely reports he is still working at Y-12 in Oak Ridge, TN, and waiting to see who wins the contract, so he knows what the future holds. Mark and Sarah live in a flat in downtown Knoxville and love the urban lifestyle. Cliff Seibel says it has been quite a while. He has tried to make it down this way but just never has enough time. Cliff is still in North Pole, AK, in charge of the environmental program for Fort Wainwright. Cliff finally got his GS-14. He does not have any plans to move on from North Pole. Cliff is looking at retiring in about five more years. He says he bought property in Panama, is getting ready to do the ex-patriot thing and is updating his Jimmy Buffet collection. He says he had a good time while stationed down there. So, he’s looking forward to it – lots of rum and sun. In the meantime, he is getting in as much hunting and fishing as he can. Cliff finally got his Harley a couple of years ago. So, in the short summers, he spends as much time as he can on the road. Cliff hopes everyone is doing well, and he sends his regards from The Last Frontier. Cliff says, to anyone making it up his way, they’re in the book. Dave Mecredy checked in with a report that he took a trip to Haiti. Dave and his daughter decided to go to Haiti after hearing the testimonies of those who went to Haiti last year. They saw an opportunity to expand their horizons. They arrived in

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through Friday were filled with ministry. On Saturday, they attended the wedding of one of their translators and visited Zin Falls in the afternoon. The team divided up and joined the Haitians in their churches on Sunday, teaching and praying for those who came forward. Early Monday, they left Hinche to return to Port au Prince for the flight back to Miami and then home. Dave says it was a very moving and rewarding experience. Leland Horn reports in from Dallas. He has been caring for his father who suffered a stroke. He is able to visit him daily. Leland is glad he was able to transfer to Dallas back in 2011, the spring before his dad’s stroke. He is still working full-time as a project manager/engineer and teaching on the side, as a doctoral adjunct back at Colorado Technical University. He is hoping to pick up a couple more teaching gigs out in Arizona and Utah. Mike McCarthy says all is quiet on the southwestern front. Reports the sequestration is taking its toll – no travel; no pay raises for the past couple years; a hiring freeze that is transparent, because when you have a vacancy, you lose the authorizations, so it looks good on paper; and the looming threat of 14 days of furlough without pay – the joys of working for the government. But at least we still have jobs ... for now. He and Paula are doing well. The Mobile device project continues to expand across the Army. Network Integration Events (NIE) is expanding, requiring an even more significant and robust simulation environment to achieve the evaluation objectives. They are currently in the middle of NIE 13.2. When translated into English, that means 24x7 operations for about 35 days straight. Plus, they are simulating an airborne brigade, a heavy

endangered species and add a whole new set of rules to the debris removal ball game. During side-scan sonar surveys, they have also located many archaeologically significant underwater objects (Tim calls them targets) that bring their own set of rules and regulations to further complicate the debris removal process. His next big task is the bathometric surveys of channels, marinas and clogged storm water outfall locations prior to dredging. (They aren’t supposed to say “dredging,” as FEMA doesn’t do dredging, so they use the term “sediment removal.”) Tim expects to spend the best part of the summer on the Jersey shore. Tim’s youngest daughter turned 21 on May 15th (says if she had been born a male, she would have been named after one of the cadets killed at New Market!), and he headed to Florida to take her and her older sister skydiving. It was his third jump and was neat to go with his girls and then be able to buy each of them a cold adult beverage. Tim Pishdad sends along the news that he is still enjoying the Florida sunshine. Their youngest, Trevor, graduated in May and is attending Marine Corps Basic Training. Tim says, prayerfully, he will be part of the few “Good Men” by August. They still invite BRs to come visit Central Florida and pay them a visit. All and their families are welcome to come and stay in their home during their visit. He says they do not have a big house, but they have big hearts. Tim is still marketing Dental and Health and Body by Vi weight loss supplements and doing political consulting, which helps keep him at home with his beautiful wife. Bob Kirby sends along news that he lost his mother on April 24. Bob said dear BR Tom Sliwoski drove down from Staunton for family visitation on April 26 and the funeral on April 27. Tom provided a tremendous amount of personal

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CLASS NOTES support, as they spoke over the phone during Bob’s mom’s hospitalization. He said Tom exemplifies what is so special about the bonds we developed almost 40 years ago as we walked the Ratline together, and Tom is the epitome of a true BR and a true friend. Jimmy Leech was married in April to Maria Carmen Romero-Fiedler, a lady he met in Corpus Christi about a year ago. She is an interesting gal who worked most of her life for Aeromexico and is fluent in English and Spanish. She was born in Chicago but spent most of her life in Mexico (Mexican father, German mother). Jimmy says they are very happy together. Congratulations, Jimmy! Sam Saunders has been busy with work. Mary still works part-time as an oncology nurse. Sam keeps busy with his civil engineering work at Timmons Group. They recently visited their sons who live in California. They are looking forward to seeing everyone at the reunion this fall. Tom Tucker sends along news from the last 35 years. Since 2002, he has been busy holding down the Warrenton Edward Jones Investment office as a financial advisor and limited partner with the firm. Tom is in his 10th year and absolutely loves what he does. He is happily married to Krista Williams and has a daughter, Emily, who has blessed him with two grandsons, Ethan and Myles. Prior to Edward Jones, Tom worked for the international funds transfer group S.W.I.F.T. for 17 years, and before that, he worked for Crutchfield in Charlottesville. Tom says he has had three distinct careers! Meanwhile, he has always continued as a professional musician (saxophone and bass) and has managed to play live and in studios a lot over the years (one more career!). In closing, I would like to ask a favor. Please e-mail me, so I can rebuild the class mail roster. I have had some computer problems and need to update my list. I also request that you ladies are always welcome to send along news for your “shy” men who might be reluctant to send news. If you have not joined us on Facebook, look for VMI 78. That concludes this installment of your notes. As always, as you read this, it is time to send along new happenings for the next Review.

’79

Michael Ogden

Sad news as BR Tom Kovach passed away on May 9th following a prolonged battle with cancer. Anthony Pais, Tom Manley, Dave Riedel, Phil Southers, Eric Schwarz, Randy Atkins, Ed Johnson, Mike Thomas, Pete Underwood and Doug Doerr were able to attend services for

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Tom. His wife, Mary, family, relatives and friends were all appreciative of ’79’s attendance. Tom left us all too soon and will be sorely missed. Many thanks to those who were able to attend on short notice and special thanks to Doug Doerr for leading our effort. Jim Elliott had the pleasure of spending a couple of days with Brad Jones at his farm in Cumberland County, and Jim evidently finally killed a turkey. Jim writes, “Now, this wasn’t the first spring gobbler I’ve gotten in my lifetime, but Brad has taken me more times than I can possibly count and finally … we got the monkey off our backs! I actually think he was more excited than I was! Great time and can’t wait to go again soon!” Jim’s son, Sam Elliott ’14, was recently elected to serve on the RDC next year! Jim finds this ironic, to say the least, considering how many times they requested his presence in ’75 and ’76. Mike Thomas reports that his and Jim Leavitt’s sons have decided not to follow in their fathers’ footsteps and attend VMI but, rather, to pursue their college educations at Ole Miss. Meade Spotts has already offered to help move the boys into their dorms this fall. He wants to spend some time on the campus where they redshirt Miss America! John Kailey took his youngest son to VMI in April for Legacy Day – he reports that it’s a good but crowded program. John was able to see BRs Tom Trumps and Jeff Curtis during the visit. He stayed in Roanoke the night before with Al Soltis. John was impressed with all the changes – “beautiful Lacrosse field, baseball stadium.” Other than that, John is still officiating lacrosse and trying to get used to the idea of never putting on a uniform again. He sees Jim Pigg occasionally, in conjunction with lacrosse. Pete Alvarez visited BR Brian Tollie and his wife, Laura, in Cambridge, England. He spent four days in their great company. He also got out and saw the RAF Duxford base (included actual mission boards from all the WWII airborne drops), as well as a pilgrimage to Sulgrave Manor, ancestral home of George Washington. Pete says, “Brian and Laura were great hosts and tour guides! In addition, my only daughter graduates high school next month and plans to attend Elon University in North Carolina to major in art and dance (after a sterling recommendation from BR Mark Day) – despite getting a provisional appointment to Mother I, so imagine my disappointment!” Jim Owens writes, “Not much happening here … you saw the article about my retirement ceremony in Italy with Army Africa. Had a great trip there with Sherry and am now trying to figure out what to do for a living, as I have also left Northrop. Should be interesting … ” Jeff Curtis checks in with, “Only news I have is that Betsy and I moved off Post and are now living ‘in the country’ about a mile and a half from VMI.

I’m switching jobs effective 1 July to executive assistant to the superintendent and secretary to the BOV vice chief of staff.” Congrats on the move (PARTY AT JEFF and BETSY’s!), and we are glad to hear you are staying within the VMI fold! Jeff saw Jeff Smith and Chuck Smith recently. Jeff [Smith] brought his dad in for his class of ’43 Reunion. Chuck is now planted temporarily at his home at Smith Mountain Lake. Jeff says Jeff Beeby stopped by during his annual attendance at the Environment Virginia Symposium, and he saw John Kailey and Jim Harrington at Legacy Day; John had his 9-year-old son with him. Larry Adams recently went to Charleston with the wife for several nights and had a great time! They even visited enemy territory. While it is common knowledge that the Citadel is a “Country Club,” contrary to that thought, during the midApril visit, the Citadel Knobs were still “walking lines,” straining, double-timing up stairs and being dropped for pushups at lunch time and a day away from their “Recognition Day” … and they got out of school three weeks later! Larry says, “Gotta give them props for the length of time before they are ‘recognized!’ Everyone I met was very nice, and of course, my VMI shirt started some conversations! I used my VMIAA smart phone app (really cool app but somewhat creepy too!) to see if there were any classmates in the immediate Charleston area, with the thought that I might try to have a beer with them one night, but there are none in the immediate vicinity (that are registered with the VMIAA and have the smartphone app, anyway).” Larry continues, “The Boston terror week was a tense one for us, like most Americans. My Air Force second lieutenant son, in his first year at MIT grad school, went to the Boston Marathon, as a spectator, near Fenway Park and was walking back across the bridge to Cambridge when numerous first responder vehicles came screaming by him into Boston. He pulled out his cell phone to check a news site to see what was going on, and the latest entry was about the marathon winner – then his phone had no service all of a sudden. When he got home, he turned the TV on and saw what was going on. He was PO’d, defiant and sad but obeyed the authorities requests to stay inside at various points that week. He lives a few blocks from where the MIT cop was slain, two miles from where the older brother used to live and about five miles from where the second slug was found. I was a nervous wreck that Friday and was glued to the TV all Friday night, like most of America. I’m so proud of Stosh Morris and what he is doing with his Global Campaign Against IED foundation.” Larry just moved his daughter out of her freshman dorm at Belmont University. Larry says it only took him a few days to recover! Her new boyfriend and fellow classmate has more hair than his wife, the entire Rat mass and third class combined! But Larry says he’s a nice kid.

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CLASS NOTES Doug Doerr relays that he went out on furlough if it makes my brain hurt doing the math! Or is Jake, and it is like having another child.” Almost. with General Dynamics on 13 March, and it looks that arithmetic? No college tuition involved, eh? like it will be for about three months. Doug writes, Pete Underwood verifies that Anita and he, in Ben Bauman is doing well. His grandson, Ben “Of course, I had 42 things I wanted to accomplish fact, DID have dinner with Doug and Corrine IV, is growing very fast, and his son and his wife while on furlough, but Corinne tells me that we Doerr in Montclair, VA, and that Eric and Becky are doing well. Ben’s daughters are still in college needed money to accomplish the majority of them, Schwarz did walk in (verified by Eric, as well). I and are planning on graduating by the spring of and we are not going to spend funds on anything say this, as there was some suspicion for a period next year, if they can get the classes they need. He that could wait. Hence, most of my projects are of time about whether Anita really existed or was is currently working with a team supporting the still that – potential projects.” Doug Army suicide prevention program says “This is an uncertain time in the and on a mobile training team, contracting world, and I’m certain training company level leaders I am not the only one out there in throughout the Army. Ben got himthis predicament. Fortunately, Tom self addicted to Crossfit (you can Manley brought me aboard for a few follow his exploits on Facebook!), months to help him with some work, and he says it does help keep him in and I’ve enjoyed this time to use some shape. I think I pulled a muscle just of my skill sets to help him out. I’m reading this. hoping that my company wins back Asa Page checks in to say hello the Marine Corps work, and we should to all. Asa’s been laying low due be back at Quantico in June.” Doug is to recent shoulder surgery, but he’s preparing to complete a metric century slowly getting back into the game bike ride on 11 May, and riding along and looking forward to the fall should be his dyke, Doug Ashton ’76, football season and tailgating. He Class of 1979: Roommates John Colonna, Dan Foster, Ray Duffett, Jeffery Smith and Bob Norris at Norris’ and one of his Marine buddies, Dave says that if any BRs make it back mother’s memorial service. Wassink. All 11 of the VMI Marines of for a home game, please give him

our class might remember Dave from a “heads up” and plan on joining our TBS class. Doug is still busy with him and Karen as they tailgate. His scouts. He just helped to train new youngest son (the family Rat with a scoutmasters on 4 May and still reRing) is heading back to the Institute mains the scoutmaster of Troop 1390, in the fall as a first classman. This now past 13 years. Pete and Anita spring, Asa and Karen enjoyed Underwood visited Doug and Corinne reconnecting with a lot of the guys recently. They rendezvoused at their and their wives from the classes favorite restaurant, Giorgio’s Family of ’76-’78 while making The VMI Restaurant, where they ran into Eric Alumni Association-sponsored sailand Becky Schwarz. Tom Manley ing cruise to the Windward Islands. and Doug traveled to VMI in early John and Jess Arthur are new May and spent time with Jeff Curtis grandparents! Their first grandchild! and Tom Trumps. They went down John E Arthur (7th) was born at 9:53 there to visit Tom’s nephew, Myles a.m., 12 May 2013, to Capt. John Manley ’16, and his roommate Ryan and Kathryn Arthur ’08. CongratuPoffenbarger, who is John’s nephew. lations to all! They are roommates. Doug asks, “Is I have, on occasion, taken some Class of 1979: At Eric Schwarz’s daughter’s wedding there a little old lady in Smith Hall liberty with some special and unique reception in Santorini, Greece, were, from left, Schwarz that works to connect relationships or notes submissions. This is one such and the three Prible brothers, Billy ’01, Josh ’07 (Eric’s son-in-law) and Jon ’05. dykes?” Doug went with Tom to visit special case. Please enjoy, as I did, a third classman that he met two years the long awaited but much anticiago at scout camp. Sean McVey ’15 was telling just a picture in Pete’s wallet, until finally meet- pated, FIRST EVER class notes submission from Doug that, on his own initiative, he traced back ing her last year! So, trust but verify! Pete did Jeffery Smith! “Retirement has given me the his dyke lineage and determined that his class and make the mistake of, what do they say, “never opportunity to catch up on old friends at Virginia our class are “related.” His great-great-grand dyke volunteer?” He writes, “ … as the work on the Military Institute. After 33 years of service, I is Dan Sheahan. Doug says, “I never thought of reunion becomes more intense, I will be glad to have so many of you to thank for the explanation doing that when I was a cadet. Have you ever assist. Since retiring for good, I have a bit more of who I am and whatever I’ve done, how I’ve heard of anyone doing that? I asked him to trace time on my hands … but not much. Amazing framed the world, dealt with loss, and survived my lineage to determine who from the class of how your interests and activities expand to fill to build a family of my own. Last month, I ac’15 is my dyke. Imagine if we picked up that the available time.” Done. Sold. Hired. Thanks, companied my father, VMI class of 1943, to his tradition – visiting with our ‘descendants’ when Pete. I will be in touch! 70th Reunion, and together we climbed the sentry we visit the Institute. I had adopted grandparents Jim LaRose checks it with an update on his box (built on the ruins of our own infamy) to lead from the class of ’27 that took an interest in me, world travels: “Took a business trip to Germany the Corps in an Old Yell. It had been a while since and they were absolutely a blessing for me – be- and Hungary.” He writes further, “Kathie and I I felt that kind of combination of awe and danger. ing so far away from home.” Awesome idea, even are now empty nesters, so we got a boxer named (We were a bit unsteady perched so high, and I

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CLASS NOTES had visions of being buried in Old Barracks!) As you may recall, Dad commissioned many of us (Army ROTC) on the day before graduation. He served as commandant from 1960-63, and despite the inevitable comparisons to the Old Corps, he is impressed with the discipline of the current regiment and most especially with the performance of Tom Trumps. “Dave Van Wagoner joined me for lunch [recently]. He remains creatively engaged in most every academic discipline known to VMI, from quantum physics, organic chemistry, philosophy, music (song writing) and literature, to – of course – electrical engineering. Today’s Naval submarine force owes a huge debt to Dave’s application of science to the problems of underwater operations. “I attended the memorial service at National Defense University of Maj. Gen. Joe Brown ’80 and his wife, both of whom were killed in the crash of their small aircraft. The service was packed. The Air Force chief of staff was chief speaker, but the most moving memories came from Joe’s best friend who remembered that, when Joe’s son was born in a military hospital in Texas, Joe pulled out a bag of Southern dirt and made sure that the infant’s first glimpse of life would be that of Virginia earth. We had crossed paths several times since our Keydet days, but I learned from these tributes that Joe had become a great man who had married a great woman. “Bob Norris’ beloved mother died recently, and her memorial service in the late winter of this year provided his VMI roommates an opportunity to renew the vows of friendship that had not weakened in the intervening years. Bob’s eulogy reminded me of precisely why he was our Honor Court president: self-effacing, humorous despite the grief, generous to those outside the immediate family, and so genuine in content that it was as if formed by wind and rain. John Colonna (who has done much to keep this lapsed graduate in the loop), Danny Foster and Ray Duffett were all there. All four doctors, and I the only ‘leg’ among them. Although I had majored in biology (albeit as a “second”) and had applied to four medical schools, I didn’t even get an interview. The only ones not surprised were Bob, John and Danny. “When I was commander, 5th Signal Command (U.S. Army in Europe), John Arthur called to tell me that his son had been wounded in Afghanistan and was about to be transferred to Landstuhl, Germany. It was an honor to hold this young man’s hand: by the second visit, he was, despite his considerable wounds, fully engaged and remarkably respectful, making me feel as if I were the one who deserved his thanks. That kind of courageous humility comes from parents and the example of fellow soldiers and Marines, but it also comes from practice, the kind a school like VMI provides. “My own dyke, Douglas Burdett ’82, has kept

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me tethered to Virginia and the Institute over the years. And he has forged, from his own roots as an itinerant musician in Band Company, a remarkable resume: a leading entrepreneur in the world of advertising, a respected online commentator, a humorist of high order and a proud father. He reunited me with Jim Hickey ’82, who recently concluded his own distinguished career as an infantry officer. We had lunch and while in looks he reminded me of the young Rat whose pushups were too elliptical for my liking, in presence he was the grown man whose example translated through soldiers who stared down Saddam Hussein. In fact, this class of ’82 is evidence that the dyke system is the DNA of VMI: the means by which the attributes of each class get passed on. I am proud of you all.” Thanks Jeffery, and ’79 is pretty dern proud of you and your service to our nation. John Colonna has some added words regarding Bob Norris’ mother and her service. “She was the consummate VMI mom. If you wore the cadet gray, she was your mom, too. It was a wonderful celebration of a life well lived.” Well said, BR. From the Virginia Eastern Shore … Been a busy time. After dropping out of ODU to enlist in the Marine Corps (six years, two combat tours in Fallujah and Ramadi), eldest son James graduated from college in early May. The youngest, Matt, who graduated from ODU last May, enlisted in the Marine Corps (noticing a trend?) and is dealing with the Crucible in the final week of MCRD, as I write. Renee and I are headed to the Mother “I” for graduation, and I will be proudly commissioning Clay Lewin ’13 as a second lieutenant in the Marine Corps. That is followed the NEXT week with Matt’s graduation from MCRD. It has been a busy month. We are in the planning stages for this summer’s Eastern Shore Alumni Chapter Annual Cookout and Rat Sendoff. We had a lot of fun last year in spite of the rain, and we are looking forward to a great time this year, as well. All BRs are invited, so keep a look out for the formal announcement. That’s all for now, BRs. I will be sending out information and suggestions for our 35th Reunion in fall ’14 as details emerge. Stay well.

’80

John Gibney Jr.

Hello, Brother Rats, These notes cover the period of Feb. 16, 2013, through May 15, 2013. Through mid-April, I received only a few messages from our BRs. This is not unusual, as many

of our BRs communicate at Christmas. Then, as you will read below, came the tragic news of the plane crash that took the lives of Joe and Sue Brown. The period began with an e-mail from Tuck Masker who was training for a 100-mile bicycle race over Memorial Day weekend. Good luck, Tuck. Kirk Cole sent an update from his home in Williamsburg where Kirk, Sharon and their 4-year-old daughter, Katelynn, live. Kirk works for NASA. He visited recently with Brig. Gen. Jonathan Ives, and he communicates with Dave Sadowski via e-mail. Kirk reports all are well and thriving. February ended with an e-mail from Andy Ludlum with a photo (did not meet publishing requirements) taken at a chapter event in Columbia, MD. Dave Gleason, Steve Kraus and Hal Snyder were in attendance. March began with an e-mail from Dave and Jeannine Madden, noting that Dave was named executive director at SMC in Southern California. Pat Griffin called. His son, Michael, will matriculate to VMI in August but will also attend the summer program for incoming Rats. Pat called Robby Jones for a recommendation for a bank in Lexington. Pat was reminded that Jay Melvin runs a bank in Lexington, so Pat was going to reach out to Jay. Later in March, Pat called to say that Phil Munisteri was in a Long Island hospital for a heart procedure. Pat suggested that I call Phil and give him grief. I did. In a follow-up e-mail, Phil explained the procedure and reported that he is fine. I spoke with Gary Levenson, VMI’s deputy commandant, who was on duty as the OC. Karen has retired from her government position. Gary is also recovering nicely from his battle with a lawn mower blade. Frank Leech sent an e-mail with a link to a jazz rendition of the “VMI Spirit.” I will forward the link upon request. John Caplice sent an e-mail from Naples, FL, where he and Margie were on vacation and enjoying life. March ended with a call with Hugh Fain who was headed to Boston to spend Easter with his daughter, Audrey, where she attends college. Hugh also said that he will be traveling to Scotland in September with John Blankenship to play golf. April began with a call from Elliott Wolffe. He and Amy will be traveling from their home in New Orleans to attend Amy’s high school reunion in mid-May in New Jersey. Elliott and I will try to play golf during his visit. Elliott also said that he sees Matt Griffin who lives in Mississippi but travels to New Orleans for business. Elliott also expects to see Kent Oelrich who is scheduled to visit New Orleans for the wedding of his niece. Andy Ludlum sent photos taken at BWI Airport of himself and John Diggs on New Year’s Day. They were both working.

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Class of 1980: John Diggs and Andy Ludlum on the job at BWI. I also spoke with Ray Joinson. Ray is retired from the Air Force. He and Carla live in Tennessee and are doing very well. John Alerding is working at VMI (not as a stoopie), teaching in the math lab. His wife, Anne, teaches at VMI in the biology department. His son, Johnny, is an Air Force lieutenant in flight school. I spoke with Chal Glenn, a financial advisor in Sumter, SC. He and Robin are doing very well. Their two daughters, Jennifer and McKenzie, live in Nashville. Their son, Josh, is a junior at Clemson majoring in economics. I spoke with Robby Jones. He and Ed Bower will not be visiting us in the Poconos this summer. April 19 brought news of the tragic death of Maj. Gen. Joseph Brown and his wife, Sue, in a plane crash in Williamsburg, VA. I received a call from Dan Sweeney and a text from Tolar Nolley, followed by calls from Hugh Fain and Jack Keane. Blast e-mail messages from the Alumni Association and among our BRs alerted the class first to the news and then to information related to the funeral and the memorial service held at The Eisenhower School in D.C. where Joe was the commandant. Additional calls with John Alerding, Andy Brown and Chris Dombalis were followed

Class of 1980: Jack Keane, Dennis Jacobs and Dave Gleason at dinner in Tahoe following a day of skiing.

by over 100 e-mail messages and dozens of texts from our BRs. Our BRs who attended the funeral included John Alerding, Ken Baybutt, Al Berenbrok, John Caplice, Mickey Cole, Dan Conn, Rob Dalessandro, Hugh Fain, Rick Fowler, Ben Gore, Mike Harper, Scott Hodge, Jack Keane, John Lillard, Mike Knapp, Rob Leatherbury, Gary Levenson, Bruno Loefstedt, Jim Lunsford, Tolar Nolley, Josh Priest, Al Ramer, John Runyon, Dave Sadowski, Dan Sweeney, Jeff Washington and Tony Zoetis. Thanks to John Alerding for providing the list. Dan Conn, Rob Dalessandro, Jack Keane and V. Dunn attended the memorial service. April ended with an e-mail from Josh Priest alerting a number of our BRs to an informal gathering in the Norfolk area in connection with a VMI vs. ODU baseball game. May began with an e-mail from Tom Bersson with a photo of himself, John Lillard, Josh Priest and Dave Sadowski taken at the event mentioned above. Jack Keane sent an e-mail with photos taken during a ski trip to Tahoe, where Jack and Dave Gleason met Dennis Jacobs. Both photos appear with these notes.

Class of 1980 John Lillard, Josh Priest, Dave Sadowski and Tom Bersson in Norfolk, Virginia, at a VMI event in April 2013.

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The period closed with two messages from Walt and Mary Lynne Wood. The first message noted the 15th anniversary of their relocating to Peru and the 13th anniversary of their settling in Ayacucho. The second message said that Pat and Roni McCarthy would be visiting Ayacucho as part of a mission trip sponsored by VMI. In an effort to end on a light note, I’d like to share a story that Pat Griffin told following his visit to VMI for a leadership conference. Pat freeloaded at the quarters of Gary Levenson on Post. Pat arrived and let himself in. He announced himself, then heard Gary yell down from upstairs, “Come in; I’m in the shower!” Pat considered checking in to a hotel. Finally, if you did not receive any of the blast email messages mentioned above, please provide, either to me or to the Alumni Association, your updated contact information. Thanks to all for your support.

’81

Trip Lloyd

Dear Brother Rats and Families, The Lloyd family spent the summer involved in theater. I played the Lord Mayor for the six-week Virginia Renaissance Faire with my daughter, Amanda. Amanda was inducted into the National Junior Honor Society at the end of last year and will start eighth grade in September. My 10-yearold son, Liam, has developed a love of baseball, and he and I throw to each other every chance we get. My bride, Anne, after a brief hiatus as the cliché of an unemployed actress, is happily working in professional theater again. Brian Quisenberry was scheduled to have his VMI retirement parade Friday, April 19, at 1630. His wife, Jessica, set up a reception in the Turman Room of Preston Library following the parade. Unfortunately, the weather cancelled the

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CLASS NOTES parade, and the reception was moved to Alumni Greg and Ann Wolven write that it is busy Atlantic University. Bill laments that it will be Hall. Brian is now the director of Financial around their household. Greg has been extremely tough to play in Boca Raton. He has two left in Planning at Birmingham-Southern College in busy at work and around the house. He is chair- high school, Garrett and Taylor. He hopes to be Birmingham, AL. man of one international software standards a lot older before grandchildren come into the Steve Tennant writes from the heartland of committee and a member of a national electric picture. Bill shared that Andy Kolesar’s son is America (Kansas). The first big news is that he substation design committee. These committees awesome on YouTube. He invites anyone visiting completed a master of public adminCharlotte to look him up. istration degree at the University of Dan Gallagher wrote that he and Kansas and was inducted into Pi Bill Grigg connected a few times Alpha Alpha, the public administraover the past winter due to mutual tion honors fraternity. His final essay real estate development interests and was graded with honors, one of two again in March, along with Charlie so recognized. He had his hooding Wilson, at a Charlotte alumni gatherceremony on April 19 and on April ing. Bill has taught Dan much about 22 was notified that he was accepted property development – enough, into the Ph.D. program in political Dan shares, to know that he should science at KU, starting in August. simply get the property sold and not Steve says this proves he should have tackle the property development side. been a liberal arts major at VMI, as Charlie is doing well, but Dan told Class of 1981: At a VCU-VMI baseball game in Richmond on April 17, 2013, were, from left, Harry Lee, Hank Lee, he is sure the Jammer would agree! him to marry that girlfriend of his Vince Wood, Carter Augustine, Ken Morris, Chip Buehler It will take a while to finish, since and make some babies before it’s too ’82, Clinker Moss and Lou Darden. he has a full-time job to tend to, but late! Dan’s wife, Laura, and he just at least he has the resources to get celebrated their 25th wedding annistarted, thanks to the GI Bill. His wife, Marianne, and his “normal” work have him traveling a lot versary. Their daughter, Kristen, graduated magna was cast as Kaylene in the local production of (San Diego to D.C. several times in the last 12 cum laude from Meredith in Raleigh. Daughter The Night I Died at the Palace Theater which months). His wife, Ann, is on the “downhill” slide Erin completed her second year at UNCW with was in production in April and May. She is also for her doctorate. While Greg is certain she would all A’s. Son Matthew, despite great grades and VP of the community theater board and runs disagree that it’s downhill, the reality that there’s a closing in on Eagle Scout, will wait a year to the children’s theater program as a contractor at short time left is indisputable. Greg feels they will apply to VMI while he serves in the National Fort Leavenworth. When not doing this, she is both be glad when she finishes and will both be Guard (combat engineers). Son Joseph continues a substitute teacher in the local school district. proud of her accomplishto improve in sixth Steve declares, “The goddess is going strong!” ment. She is doing this grade, despite his disHis children are all doing well. Joseph is one year while still teaching at the abilities (never say away from finishing a Ph.D. in psychology at the college level, so pressure die!). As for Dan, he University of Chicago. Steve laments that it looks is high. Their son, Chris, is just grateful that his like he will win the Ph.D. race. Jonathan is on a found employment after business is improvjazz music scholarship at Kansas City Kansas college graduation as a ing, and his waistCommunity College and is playing gigs all over technician at a group of line is shrinking from the place. Steve recently watched Jonathan per- hospitals. He works on weightlifting. Dan form at the Unity Temple on the Plaza in Kansas all things electronic and wrote that, “Soon, City, MO. He also does house band work for a really seems to enjoy his I’ll be as fit and tough comedy show that may be on Comedy Central. work. Chris lives three as Joe Moan and Jim Class of 1981: Ray and Gale LawMadeline is a freshman at Washburn University hours north in Lafayette, Hanratty, BR-BFFs, son at Ray’s graduation ceremony. and was the featured soloist on alto saxophone at IN, near Purdue Univerdespite their being He earned a master of engineering their April concert band performance in Topeka. sity. His daughter, Kaleftists (and ugly).” degree in nuclear engineering. She was the only one identified by name in the tie, graduated May 12 John Dixon writes program. Yes, Steve is proud! (Mother’s Day and Ann’s that all is well, and birthday) with a degree in psychology and a minor there isn’t much news to report. He continues at in Spanish. She is working on graduate schools Carson Long Military Academy and had a very and wants a doctorate in clinical psychology. nice and productive year. He and his wife, Patti, Bill Grigg has been living in the “Queen City” spent the summer at their home on Gwynn’s for over 20 years. He is staying in the real estate Island, where they are subsisting entirely on business locally by doing residential mortgages steamed crabs and fresh fish! and a few small projects. Bill ran into Pete Foster Sloppy Gonsalves is still importing and ’82. They knew each other in high school, and it peddling booze and being called on to deliver was the first time they had seen each other since presentations around the U.S. and Canada. He leaving the Institute. Pete is doing well, as is related that the only funny story is, back in late Butch Hostetter and a few others. Bill’s oldest, April, he was checking in at 5:00 a.m. at JFK for Class of 1981: A gift for Greg Wolven after spending a semester playing football for a flight to Mexico to visit a tequila supplier and from his wife, Ann. The “PE” stands for professional engineer. Coach John Shuman ’80 at Fork Union Military felt a presence on his back. It was Bobby Munno, Academy, has decided to play football at Florida heading out for a scuba adventure with his wife.

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CLASS NOTES all the time he spent down, his muscles atrophied quite a bit, so he relies on a walker for all mobility. His weight was also down from 210 to 165 pounds, but he’s got his appetite back, and with Glynis’ support, he’s going to start putting the pounds back on. Nevertheless, Coke is upbeat and has a good, funny or encouraging word about every situation. Jerry Manley and Grover Outland send their praises and declare Dave the ’81 de facto “Class Chaplain” to raise spirits and enhance the healing. Class of 1981: Gathering on New Market Mike Denton and Gary Morgan Day in Sarasota, Florida, were, from left, played in the Jim Irby ’81 Keydet Cup Chip Chipley, Chaplain Caudill and Bill Bird. golf classic and attended the dinner that Sloppy spoke to Jaws who seems to be doing well was held at the Independence Golf Club in Charlotte, NC; is back in the mortgage business; in Richmond, VA, on May 2. and is still involved with Bojangles. Chip Chipley spent New Market Day in Bogey Bogart is back from Afghanistan, finish- Sarasota, FL, with, among others, Bill Bird and ing 57 months in combat in both Iraq and Afghani- Chaplain Caudill. stan. He is now at TRADOC Headquarters at Fort Charles Kause Eustis, VA. He appreciated all the support from the class while he was overseas. From Bogey, “It meant a great deal to me and my family.” (Editor’s Note: See photo of Bogart in the “In Theater” section at the front of this Alumni Review.) Ray Lawson graduated from the University Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from of South Carolina on May 11 with a master’s in the class of 1982 for this issue. nuclear engineering with a 3.91 GPA which, by Hugh Daughtry his own account, is significantly better than he did at VMI (for many reasons). After graduation, he took his family to Montana for a week of hiking, trout fishing, soaking in the hot springs and not thinking about anything nuclear. Glenn Zaramba walked away from an auto Editor’s Note: The following notes were written accident. He hit a stopped car at 65 mph after the by outgoing Class Agent Jim Outland. cruise control on his VW Eos did not cut off on braking. The airbag deployed, and the car sufGreetings, BRs, fered $17,000 in damage. He and his insurance I’m proud to tell you the class of ’83 was company are not on the best of terms right now. heard from during our 30th Reunion, and I’m He sends a shout out to Joslin Diabetes Clinic apologizing right now to all those I “reunioned” in Boston, which finally got that disease under with but are not mentioned in the following control for him. notes, as there is simply not enough space nor John McKeegan got married on May 18 in enough of my brain cells left to recapture it all. I Yonkers, NY, to a “wonderful lady.” will say I greatly enjoyed seeing everybody and Dave Taylor and his wife, Marian, went over had a heck of a good time – in fact my sides hurt to the Eastern Shore on April 20 (for a 35-mile from laughing on more than one occasion, as we bike ride) and, while there, visited Coke and collectively recalled our storied cadetships. For Glynis Savage. What was intended to be a brief those who attended as well as those who missed, “drive-by” turned into a three-hour visit that in- I’m providing a modified play-by-play of events cluded Glynis’ insistence that they stay for lunch to include all the reunion news that’s fit to print. and Coke’s equal determination that they stay to A number of you notified me in advance about watch the Savage’s wedding video from 2006! your inability to attend for various reasons, which Coke was looking great and in good spirits. He I totally understand, and you can just explain it had had four radiation treatments as of late April, to everyone else when you answer the bone for but the doctors had decided to stop these. Coke missing a reunion check-formation. wasn’t clear on the rationale but accepted it as a One man with a legitimate excuse not to be good thing. He will continue the chemotherapy there was BR Col. Tracey Jones (USAF). He was treatments in the foreseeable future. The thing boarding a military transport plane on Wednesday that is noticeably “not Coke” is that, because of before the reunion en route to Afghanistan for his

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second tour. Cal Murray met Tracey during an overlay in Norfolk and was able to share a beer before our BR departed for Krzgystan on his way to Bagram. Tracey’s arrival in country must have coincided with some cosmic planetary alignments, since BR Keith Sawyer was returning from Afghanistan to attend the reunion, while Tracey was headed down-range. Keith now works as a civilian with Flour Corp, and it was great to catch up with him during the weekend. He has kept the faith and a positive attitude during difficult economic times and hooked up with Flour as a result of his Never Say Die spirit. Keith was able to stock up on extra class of ’83 reunion gear in preparation for his return to Afghanistan and perhaps see Tracey when he gets back there. Another BR who made the long haul for our 30th was Andy Jones who works for Ford in Thailand. Andy also made the same trip back to Lexington for our 25th Reunion, so it was great to see him again and to hear his latest news from the Far East. Like Keith, he stocked up on extra class of ’83 reunion stuff to take back to BRs Sompodh Sripoom and Somsak Roongsita, who is now a general in the Thai military. Andy and I also discussed my idea of having unique class of ’83 silk neck-ties made in Thailand. If the seed bears fruit, then these could be part of our next reunion favors package, but we will probably need a “tie-figure” committee to come up with a suitable class design. The lure of fashion and an innovative class logo design reminds me that Max Rogers may have some leftover class patches from our third class year that he is still hoping to sell. Perhaps the prospect of a chic class of ’83 neck-tie and the opportunity to unload residual class patch inventory will get BR Rogers off his duff down in Mobile and back to Lexington, but only time will tell. One BR who did make it back is Brig. Gen. Rock Donahue (USA). Rock attended with his lovely wife, Nancy, and our BR made me envious during our class dinner in Moody Hall by sporting the distinctive class of ’83 class patch on his dinner jacket. It was great catching up and sharing memories with Rock who has served our country for 30 years and during multiple deployments. The Donahues are currently stationed at Fort Bragg, with twin girls still in the nest and a son, daughter and daughter-in-law all serving our country in the Army. Also on the fashion front, Mark Sykes did a terrific job creating Old Corps class of ’83 t-shirts for our reunion. These featured the original design of our Rat t-shirts and were well received. Mark’s first classman son, Ben, was on target to graduate shortly after our reunion, but unfortunately, he missed marching in our reunion parade for reasons unclear to me. A number of you first class private BRs could probably opine as to how this happened. Ben’s mom, Kim, was somewhat surprised

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CLASS NOTES at not seeing her son on parade when his company about Henry and Horan). All of our returning others. Special thanks go to BR Daughtry and marched by our reviewing stand, but then again, BRs (but not Cornett, Rogers, McCusker and his cat-like reflexes in securing Thomas from she was also surprised at not having ever seen the others who know who they are) enjoyed lovely Alumni Hall on extremely short notice to be our inside of our beautiful reunion hotel, which, after quarters and a hospitality suite at the Hampton hospitality room bartender. Hugh also arranged four years of visiting Lexington, our for the VMI Commanders jazz group BR Mark had inexplicably and sucto play during and after our Moody cessfully overlooked as a lodging Hall dinner, and they were outstanding. option for her. But I digress. Owen Peery earned honors by coordiAdditional support for our 30th nating the golf event at the Lexington was provided by Jennifer and Jamie Country Club, and Doug Wainwright MacDonald, as they planned and did a fine job handling the skeet shoot. coordinated all aspects of our class Doug also now has a contact list of dinner in Moody Hall. Although 83ers interested in shotgunning and Jennifer was unable to attend, she hopes to arrange another outing, so we did an amazing job arranging the won’t need to wait another five years format for the evening, and we are to pull the trigger together. If you are greatly indebted to her. Couple her interested, let us know or put your efforts in making our dinner a fanname out on VMI83@yahoogroups. tastic success with the fact that she com. Speaking of doing a fine job still manages our Special Forces BR and gunning, Sister Rat Mary Amato on a full-time basis, and you get a defended the class of ’83’s bragging sense of this amazing Sister Rat. Jarights by hitting virtually every target mie really did his part, too, by being presented, which makes me think we the “boots on the ground” during the can all rest peacefully at night knowing weekend and bringing together the BR Col. Amato is so well protected. last-minute logistics. Among other Kudos also go to Mary for donating things, this required his enlistment her winnings from the skeet event to of BR Mark Waters to hunt down the VMI trap and skeet team. Doug wayward BRs during the cocktail also tells me first-time clay shooters hour to ensure all were issued their Tim Craul and John Geis managed proper meal tickets. Jamie’s efforts respectable performances. also included creation of a plaque Also, in the area of thanking people, featuring the cadet photos of each of I’d love to thank the enterprising BR our deceased BRs. In keeping with who took the initiative Saturday night Class of 1983: The class paid tribute to deceased Brother the theme of faith in each other and after hotel management “shut down” Rats during its 30th Reunion Dinner in Moody Hall. This VMI, this tribute was placed on an (i.e., threw us out of) the hospitality framed photo was displayed on an empty table that was honorary table during our dinner, so suite. Methinks I sense the guiding set in honor of the deceased. these guys could be with us in spirit. hand of Bunny Hewitt in all this, We also loudly acknowledged this but whoever quietly repositioned the faith during the day Saturday with Old Yells in Inn Col Alto, as well as spirited golf and skeet beverages and food out of the suite and into some Barracks to the class of ’80 and the class of ’83 shooting Friday, an animated class social Friday BR’s room down the hall allowed things to carry and then we were joined by Cadet Miles Manley evening at The Sheridan Livery Inn, a beautiful on after Taps without even a blanket over the door ’16 for an Old Yell for BR Jack Manley. In ad- parade and picture on Saturday morning, and a or beds thrown up against the hotel wall. By that dition, the same concept was displayed on our memorable dinner with music in Moody Hall time, your agent had turned in for the evening, reunion hats which featured the VMI seal and on Saturday night. Thanks go out to Scott Bel- but sources tell me Hewitt’s Dominican cigars the words Virginiae Fidem Praesto (Faithful to liveau, Carl Gibeault, Chris Peta, Mark and Kim and BR Jack Daniels were enjoyed by more than Virginia). Other BRs keeping the faith with VMI Sykes, Hugh Daughtry, Joe Leonard and Warren a dozen “after-party people” who quickly filled and the class of ’83 made long journeys back Groseclose who all pitched in to help with reunion the room and even overflowed out on the balcony, to attend our 30th, including Trent Boggs from packets, stocking the hospitality room and provid- but only after Malachi Mills cleared it for concrete Alaska, Bobby Edwards and Will Creekmur ing the tunes. Chris Peta from Pittsburg provided stability and structural load. (“Quick! Anyone! Is from California, Mark Benvenuto and John a truck big enough to act as the Friday afternoon there a civil engineer in the house???”). Cooper from Michigan, Marty Curry and Scott command vehicle and transported me to and from Finally, those who missed the 30th Reunion Gines from Texas, and also John Dodge from The Walmart to procure all the goodies for the hospi- may not know that I formally passed the class Homestead. Ben Cottrell, who is usually busy tality suite. BR Chris Hair took over command agent’s baton off to BR Hugh Daughtry, and he dredging shipping channels, attended with wife vehicle duties with his VW Friday evening and kindly accepted the offer to lead our class going Becky after having slipped away from a “business drove me back to reunion HQ to get more drink forward. When I announced Hugh’s appointment conference” in Napa Valley. Jay Williams, who tickets, after I ran out at the class social (surprise!). during my remarks at the class dinner, I can report is recovering from heart surgery, was also there. Upon our return to the party, these extra tickets he did not have a “deer in the headlights” look Heck, even BRs Jim Henry and Scott Horan were eagerly received (surprise!) by the likes of about being named my successor, even though stopped hunting spring turkeys long enough to Snake Arnold, Mike Devens, John Preston, Scott he agreed to do it after I plied him with plenty attend. (BR Cornett, please re-read that last line Horan, Mike Laughon, Bubba Hazelgrove and of spirituous liquors the night before. I’ve been

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Class of 1983: Row 1: Carl Gibeault, Steve Hodak, Whitney Owens, Tim Craul, Charles Shirley, Scott Belliveau, James Goodwillie, Scott Donahue, Al Toler and Chris Hair. Row 2: Jamie MacDonald, Phil Shepard, Kevin Caulfield, Ray Johnston, Steve Simonson, Keith Sawyer, James Cook, Jim Outland, Bobby Edwards, Marty Curry, John Dodge, Steve Amato and Frank Tifford. Row 3: Doug Wainwright, John Cooper, Spence Westbrook, Jim Rice, Joe Leonard, Steve Godwin, Mark Heslep, Calvin Murray, Ivan Marcotte, Ted Gottwald, Ben Cottrell and Southall Bowles. Row 4: Will Creekmur, Jim Hottinger, Ed Kluckowski, Dave Warriner, Chris Peta, Dave Clarke, Tony Arnold, Hugh Daughtry, John Preston, Warren Groseclose, Breck Gorman, Mike Laughon, Bruce Hazelgrove, Mark Sykes, Charlie Luck, Danny Chu and Gene Warren. Row 5: Mike Devens, Matt Waring, Mark Benvenuto, Steve Ross, Lynn Selden, Wade Branner, Scott Gines, Andy Jones, John Geis, Malachi Mills, Ben Robertson and Trent Boggs.

CLASS NOTES

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CLASS NOTES very fortunate to benefit from Hugh’s support and counsel on a variety of matters and have no doubt the class of ’83 will remain in very capable hands during his tenure. I’ve enjoyed reconnecting with so many of you as class agent over the years and will continue to stay in the ’83 loop. Also, for all of you who were wondering, the answer is NO!, darn it, I did not drive out of the hotel parking lot on Sunday morning with the pedal to the metal, slinging gravel in a cloud of dust and my head hung out the window, yelling like a maniac, “Free at Last! Free at Last! Thank Gawd Almighty, I’m Free at Last!” Rather, I reflected with a gleeful smile about my plans to continue providing Hugh plenty of “generally truthful” updates about you all in the future. God bless our team and VMI!

and fishing trips he attends, he and Shoemaker are well aware of who from room 101 can still obtain more food, including the use of supermarket express lines, drive-throughs and phone delivery services. Also, as Hank Selman reminds us, Frank has always been a forward thinker and even better forward driver. On a personal note, things are good with my family. Our oldest daughter, Courtney, graduated from Moravian College with honors in 2010 and is a fifth grade teacher. (The intellectual genetics are from my wife, Dawn.) Our youngest daughter, Nicole, is finishing eighth grade with honor roll placements and is a very good three-sport athlete (intellectual and athletic genetics, again, from my wife). Dawn continues to work as a teaching assistant, volunteer teacher of religious classes, works out regularly and looks terrific. I would like to think it has been my positive lifestyle influence during 28 years of marriage but know better; she is a saint. I have retired from the State of New Jersey Department of Corrections after a 28-year career. The last four years, I was a director of operations at the department’s central office headquarters. It was a rewarding experience, having worked at different prisons and correction facilities and having served in the position of administrator at three of the facilities. I am now working part-time for a friend of mine who is a chiropractor. Also working out a lot and generally working on my health which has improved, after having some body parts replaced and or cleaned out. Have big respect for the medical profession, and thanks to all Brother Rats who work in it. Also, Barry,

more – attending and graduating from VMI (in my case, just barely and thanks to all the support from Brother Rats and family) is one of the most influential things we have done. To all of us, I suggest we call a Brother Rat and send a check to VMI; it will bring a smile to your face. Greg ‘Cav’ Cavallaro, thanks for all your service over years to the Institute and our great class. Looking forward to next year’s reunion and any other mini-reunions this summer and fall. RIP, Brother Rats Staiano and Baker. Take it easy, and God bless.” Bruce, thanks for the wonderful update and also for your years of dedicated service to our home state of New Jersey. I noticed an uptick in inmate uprisings after your departure from the New Jersey penitentiary system … I guess my dad was correct when he said the inmates knew better than to challenge the Bruce Hauck stare down! I know it will be hard for New Jersey to Barry Coceano replace you in that job. Thanks again for the call … I miss you, man. Drew King wrote in with the following: “I read the Alumni Review class notes and enjoy seeing what the class of ’84 is doing these days. It was great to see the story with photos of the Keydets Unfortunately, I start these notes with bad news. marching in the inaugural parade. Good show! Many of you receive my periodic e-mails, but for I thought I should send in a note to satisfy Sam those who do not, BR Richard Baker passed away Browne’s curiosity, who I have been following on 2 April 2013 in Norfolk, VA. Richard was a for many years with his updates in the Review. lawyer and had worked for years for his VMI My wife of 20 years (Sandra) and I live in Old roommate and good friend, Andy Protogyrou, Lyme, CT, with our four girls: Lauren, 13; Caroin Andy’s Norfolk law firm. During our second line, 10; Robyn, 8; and Katherine, 5. We attend and first class years at VMI, I roomed next door the wonderful church of Valley Bible Evangelical to Richard. I will remember him for his intelFree Church in Haddam and enjoy great friendlect, wit and sense of humor. He ships with some other families in our will be missed, not only by every town who also go there. For the last member of the class of ’84 but by five years, I have been employed by his family, wife (Dana) and three NAVFAC as a civil engineer at the children (Alexandria, Richard and Naval Submarine Base New London, Catherine). RIP, BR. where I have a lot of fun managing I had a long phone call with design and construction projects in Bruce Hauck recently, and since support of the warfighter. Prior to that, my memory seems to be moving in I worked in Boston from 1995-2007 on the opposite direction of my age, the Central Artery Tunnel Project with I asked Bruce to follow up with a Parson Brinckerhoff and with Black written update, which he provided, and Veatch’s Boston office on a Masas follows: “I believe this is my first sachusetts Water Resource Authority written update ever to a class agent. construction project. Hope to be able to Class of 1984: Barry and Dawn Coceano, Greg and Over the last few months, I have had stop by the next time Sandra and I drive Marlene Cavallaro, Richard Hewitt ’83 and Libby Engnice conversations with Anthony down to see her family in Arkansas.” land enjoyed supper in the Caribbean aboard the Royal ‘Gus’ Agostinelli, Warren WinDrew, thanks for the update. I know Clipper during the VMI Alumni Windward Island Cruise in March 2013. ning, Tom Anthony and Bill Janis Sam and other BRs will be glad to hear (special thanks to Steve Reardon from you and that all is going quite for keeping a close watch on the ever-energetic thank you and all of our Brother Rats who have well. I guess the “Big Dig” tunnel project kept Mr. Janis), as well as my great roommates, Jamie served and continue to serve our great country. you busy for a while in Boston. Shoemaker, Alex Thompson, Mark Morgan Dawn, the family and I did a quick stop at VMI Mike Efremov checked in recently from and Frank Kollmansperger – all are doing well. in April when returning from a spring vacation Charleston, SC: “Hey, Barry, things are going well A quick note on Frank – as you well know, he is in Florida. The Institute looked very impressive. here in Citadel land. I had an alum from the class one of our best Brother Rats, especially in terms Even more impressive were the cadets we spoke of ’58 stop by my house the other day. He saw my of keeping in touch and supporting our great class to while on Post. I remember a great update from VMI flag hanging from my deck; it’s not hard to of 1984. However, no matter how many hunting Paul Tate a few years ago and could not agree find my house because of that! Things are pretty

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CLASS NOTES good. I still run the ICU at Trident Hospital, teach- Dahlgren, VA, and is well-established as a defense years of regret). So, a brief history since VMI: ing residents how to tell the difference between contractor. We’ve been prepping our house for One year at University of Maine, followed by a hot rock and their butt. (It’s not as easy as it eventual sale – a lot of work. I’m sure many BRs enlistment in the USMC. While in the Corps and sounds!) The kids are doing great, getting bigger have been through this phase or are about to be. stationed in North Carolina, I ran into BR Mark by the minute. They’re becoming real low-country No plans to leave Virginia or my present job in Gaines. Completed my initial four-year enlistkids. I’m teaching them to fish and shrimp, and Arlington at this point. Matthew is being awarded ment and moved over to active reserve while I they love living on the water. Nick is showing a the rank of Eagle Scout on May 11; that makes completed my undergraduate work at Pepperdine huge interest in VMI, so I’m going to take the three Eagles in our household.” TJ, congrats to University here in California. I like to tell people kids to a football game this fall; maybe we could the Palmer Eagle Scouts … a great testament to that after one year at VMI and four years in the hook up? Well, I’m smoking some ribs up, Corps, I wanted to go where the most women so I need to check the fire. Take care.” Ef, would be! Activated for Desert Shield/Storm, I remember you being extremely frustrated I spent six months in Saudi with HMS-775. I trying to teach me the difference between spent the next 13 years as an ERP consultant. my butt and a hole in the ground once. Lots of business travel led to starting my own So, I am not surprised about the challenge company in 2004, Quartermaster Payroll you’re having trying to teach the residents. Service. I got married in 2000; one stepson It will eventually sink in … trust me. Keep currently in the Navy; daughter, age 11; and in touch, buddy! son, age 10. A couple of years back, the son Chris Caplice (my favorite MIT professor) of a friend of mine was looking at the Citasent me the following from Boston: “It has del, so I took father and son to VMI to tour been a very strange week up here in Boston. and try to get the son to see the light. Capt. So many weird connections. I live less than Brian Quisenberry ’81 was very gracious, a mile from Copley Square where the two even though he still wanted to make me do bombs went off. MIT had the day off, so pushups! Anyway, of the many years spent I almost walked down to the finish line to pursuing my BS, the one year at VMI was the watch the marathon ending – Patriots Day most memorable. I do miss those I was able is always a fun day to walk around Boston. to befriend. Take care, and I look forward to Fortunately, I am a geek, and I spent my offshaking hands at the 30th.” Scott, thank you Class of 1984: Keith Buckley, daughter day doing office work, so I did not end up befor your service in the USMC. Wow, PepAmy and wife Sharon have all received their ing there – thank God. I guess this one time perdine … that was an easy choice. Let’s see, Taekwondo black belts during the past year. it paid off to spend more time at work! Also, you could either be marching PTs at VMI or the location where the MIT security officer playing beach volleyball and surfing at Pepwho was murdered (Sean Collier) is about four your and Cathy’s parenting. Hope to see you at perdine. I’m surprised we didn’t all follow you blocks from where my office is. Ghandi (Steve a game this fall. out to Southern California. See you at the 30th. Barsamian) probably already reported that his Dave Hensel sent me the following note: “I’m John Karafa sent me this update: “My brothers brother-in-law lives three houses from where the in my 17th year as a technology manager at CSX and I took our 82-year-old mother to Tuesday’s younger brother was caught, and we have a bunch Transportation, a major U.S. railroad based in practice round at The Masters and had a great of friends living in that neighborhood. And I did Jacksonville, FL. I recently asked my long-term time. Then, I took my fiancée, Kimberly, to not know that the MBTA officer who was shot girlfriend, Melissa Junstrom, to marry me. We are Vegas for four days, and we stayed at The Hotel was from VMI, until some guy from the class of happy to have set a Feb. 15, 2014, date for our Mandalay Bay and had a fun time. I’m waiting ’72 living in Colorado tweeted me about it. With marriage in Orange Park, FL. When not working for my daughter, Emily, to come home from her so few alums up here, you would think I would for the railroad, I dedicate substantial time to the freshman year at USC … And I’m celebrating my know him. Tells me I need to reach out to our local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, the Coast Guard’s fifth year since starting Leebcor Services, LLC in chapter. All of the recent reports of Chechnyan uniformed volunteers. With the Auxiliary, I am April 2008, a federal construction company. We’re ties to the bombing sure made Kristin and my the commander of the Green Cove Springs, FL, doing well with active federal design-build and purchase of hotel and tickets for the 2014 Winter Flotilla and a qualified crewman on Coast Guard construction projects at Fort Bragg, Fort BenOlympics to be held in Sochi, Russia, look a little response boats. I work every other weekend as ning, Langley AFB and other states, including risky! Despite all of the drama, we are doing well a boat crewman at USCG Station Mayport, FL, Florida, South Carolina, Virginia and Tennessee. and hope to get down to Richmond sometime this augmenting active duty members on search and Most importantly, though … our wedding date is spring/summer.” Chris, we too are thankful that rescue and maritime security missions. As I’m set for Oct. 11, 2013, in South Nags Head, NC, you decided to get motivated and do some office sure we all do, Melissa and I pray for the full on the beach … All BRs welcome!” John, can work, instead of taking a potentially fateful walk. and speedy recovery of Richard Donohue ’02, I play “mom” next year and go to the Masters? Oh, by the way, you’re the only MIT professor I from his wounds suffered in efforts to capture the Congrats to you and Kimberly! I know that will know (see my opening sentence). Thanks again Boston bombers.” Dave, thanks for the note. As a be a great wedding. for the update, and my best to you and Kristin. former mariner myself (Navy side of the house), Sam Browne (my write-in choice for secretary TJ Palmer wrote me the following: “Cathy and thank you for your volunteer work supporting our of energy) wrote me with the following: “I ran I have begun the first phase of our ‘empty nest’ wonderful USCG. into Chris Murnane here at DOE, and I had the preparations: our youngest, Matthew, graduScott Doody sent me this update: “Most of the unfortunate task of informing him of BR Baker’s ates high school next year; middle son Stephen class won’t remember me, although Mark Draper passing. Chris had not heard till then. Chris and I graduates from college in the summer and is liv- and I have traded a few e-mails over the years. discussed organizing a day game outing at a Naing in Nashville; and oldest son Chris is living in I finished our Rat year and transferred (to many tionals baseball game. In addition to Chris, Jamie

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CLASS NOTES Clark, Tom Anthony and Bill Seaver are also in range. I will let you know how it works out. I ran into Keith Mangum, in addition to a few others from the class of ’87, during Legacy Day. As you can see, my kids and wife (Nita) enjoyed our time in Lexington. Post looks awesome. It is nice to see the great leadership and caliber of cadets and graduates that VMI continues to turn out. All is well on the home front, and I can’t believe we are looking at 30 years already!” Sam, thank you for the frequent updates … much appreciated! Also, let me know about the Nats game. Greg Cavallaro, his wife (Marlene), my wife (Dawn) and I spent an incredible week island hopping down in the Caribbean in March on The VMI Alumni Association cruise. Probably one of the best vacations I have had. In addition to Marlene and Cav, Richard Hewitt ’83 and his girlfriend (Libby England) joined us on numerous memorable excursions while on the various islands. Needless to say, the rum punch brought out the best in us! I would tell you about Cav accidentally locking himself out of his stateroom dressed only in his skivvies, but I will let him tell you how that happened. You wouldn’t believe the sight of Cav, dressed only in his skivvies, trying to get a new room key from the lovely 30-year-old female purser; it was classic, and I have pictures to prove it! Well, that’s about it. Man, it’s nice having Dawn drive on our way home from Mother’s Day weekend in New Jersey. Lets me knock out these notes sitting in the passenger’s seat, instead of being stressed out, driving. For your calendars, a save-the-date reminder: Our 30th Reunion will be 24-27 April 2014. Info will start flowing this fall, but I wanted you all to have the dates, so you can start planning. Until next time, good night Bubba Byrne, Pitts Carpenter and Tim Loudermilk, wherever you guys are.

’85

Matt Daniel

Brother Rats, Hope you enjoyed the Safari! (Of course, since I am writing this before the Annual Charlie Company Golf Safari takes place, this is purely pre-cognition that Big Jake Spivey laid out a great program again this year and that no one was harmed in the raucous shotgun-fest. Way to go, Future Jake! Outstanding event, as they all will be.) To the notes: This will be a short one, as I have not received much in the way of class feedback/information, and I am up against several deadlines in Arlington’s 5-Sided Wind Tunnel!

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Hijacked this from an AP/UPI press release: Lexington, Virginia. 15 May 2013 for public release. “Mr. John J. Wranek has been selected as the next vice president for Annual and Reunion Giving at the VMI Foundation. After a national search and a thorough review of more than 25 applications including interviews with 11 candidates, the smart guys at the Foundation concluded that old Toaster Head Wranek [ed: one of Wranek’s college nicknames – the only one we could print] has the requisite mojo and hutzpah to perpetuate the momentum of the Annual and Reunion Giving program into the future and take that puppy to the next level. Watch your phone; he’ll be calling you soon.” No kidding, that’s a legit press release. I promise. John Adams is doing OK after the Boston Marathon bombing incident. John was running the event and was not injured, thank goodness. It is probably because he was running with the Kenyans … sailing out in front. At least, that’s what “Will” Wieners told me. Bill was watching from the street side, standing next to a mailbox, like Flounder in “Animal House.” All bespectacled with dark sunglasses and wearing a flasher’s overcoat (images of Mark Jackson, Jud Springer and Paul Marsenison spring forth). RND: Mac McClelland (he and I are LinkedIn pals), Cary Westin and Greg Enterline. I ran into Cedric Wins in the Pentagon in early May. I’m sorry, protocol: Brig. Gen. Wins. He has just been posted to TRADOC in Fort Eustis, VA (U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command). He will be moving there with his family in June. Cedric has some fascinating stories about his experiences in Afghanistan and our progress there. Well worth some time talking with Ced to get an understanding of the status of things. BR Jim Begley was promoted to brigadier general in the Delaware National Guard. He is a leader in the C4ISR world (bona fide smart dude … slide rule in pocket) and is making a huge difference for both our nation’s war-fighting and readiness capabilities and for his business effort with Deloitte. Well done, BR Brig. Gen. Begley! We are bursting with pride! (Editor’s Note: See the announcement about Begley’s promotion in the Alumni News section of this Review.) The day after I sent my LAST set of notes, I received a nice, quick-hit conveyance from Ralph Tremaglio. Here is what Ralph had to say: “Matt, you’re the best. Hope all is well. Monica and I just closed on a house in Moseley, Virginia, as we prepare for our move to Fort Lee in July. Germany and Europe have been a blast, and we have seen almost everything we wanted to before returning to Virginia. I am looking forward to the Charlie Co. Safari and some Virginia Gentlemen. Who knew they didn’t have that in Germany!

Take care, and see you in August. Don’t let Irby, Hagan or Tim Bailey tell you anything different: you’re the best class agent ever. Love, Ralphie T” (Agent note: I made some of this up) Marc Boswell contacted me about getting together in February, about five days after the previous notes were due. Marc is selling IT systems to the USAF. He lives up here in northern Virginia. RND: John Whitty, Tom Young, Dave Wood. I am scouring and searching for other intel that our BRs have sent me, and I am coming up short. Let me see, Tom Greenspon? No, I write about him all the time. Benny Hill? No, I’ve given up hope. Oh, yeah … P.W. Sarver. I recently came across that big country boy picking on a Coast Guard admiral the other day for taking the last Nutty Buddy in the second deck food court in the Pentagon. It was ugly. Holding him up by one leg … ribbons, stars, devices, insignia, pocket change … tink-tinkle-tink … all over the floor. I think the admiral was an Aggie. You continue to make us proud, PeeDubs. That’s it for these notes. Promised “short.” Delivered. RVM, amigos. Send me some mail. Matt Daniel

’86

Clint Hubbard

Greetings, BRs and Co-matriculants! This installment comes in May 2013, and the news has been sparse this quarter. Thus, this edition will be as fleeting as cadet captain stripes on Rick Chambers’ coatee … only there for a little while. On or about 16 March, a group of BRs gathered to celebrate the class birthday at Chammps American Grill in Richmond. It was great to see: Wayne Fuller, Andy Mason, Botts Smith, Jay Ball, Robert Nussey, Steve Pancham, Scott Wagner and Jon Moody. Hope you hoisted one wherever you were … In a recent installment, the topic of scum on Gordon McKinley’s class shoes was mentioned; let’s flesh that out a little bit. It was in fall 1982, and I was straining in class ranks outside Washington Arch near Scott Shipp Hall. I can’t recall every other BR who was in the section, but I do remember McKinley, J.G., was standing next to me. At some point, an upperclassman noted that BR McKinley’s shoes weren’t up to “Rat standards,” and he called him on it: “Rat, your shoes look like ____.” Gordon “popped to” and replied, “Sorry, sir; these are my class shoes.” I thought it was a brilliant response – take that,

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES you over-zealous class ranks Nazi! Well, the upperclassman summoned Brent Dunahoe ’83 (who was close by) and repeated Gordon’s reply to him. Mister Dunahoe said, “Rats don’t have class shoes; come to my staff table at DRC today, and we’ll talk about it.” In another academic setting, that would be called a teachable moment; at VMI, it was just business as usual. I don’t think the RDC broke BR McKinley’s spirit, but it did introduce him to a shine rag and buff brush. It is my bet that Gordon is reading this today with his feet propped up and a wicked shine on his low-quarters. Our favorite retiree, Jay Thompson, offered a brief update on Facebook that he is going to be a grandpa. At least he’ll have something to keep him busy in retirement. Now he and Dave Grimm will be able to get together and share pictures, stories, etc. Are there any other grandpas out there? Here’s a little math exercise from one of our favorite sons of Mallory Hall – the infamous Cadet Hatchet – aka Axman or Ax, J.F. Pull him aside sometime, and ask him to tell you the story of the 1984 spring break trip with Axman, Bernie Colacicco, Tom DeVenoge, Pat Farrell, and Tom McCarthy and 29 cases of beer. Why 29 cases, you ask? Because the trunk lid of BR Ax’s 1970 Pontiac Catalina wouldn’t close on 30 cases of beer; that’s why! I submit to you that if the good professors in Mallory Hall had formulated a problem such as “solve for x with ‘x’ being how many cases of beer will fit into a 1970 Pontiac Catalina” or something similar, then Axman could have passed Calculus II in a walk! As Paul Harvey would have said in the rest of the story, the 29 cases were gone by Tuesday, and BR DeVenoge was down to $2 on the last day and eating ice cream sandwiches. And have we talked at all about binge drinking? The theory could be made that Ax, Colacicco, DeVenoge, Farrell, and McCarthy invented binge drinking. Speaking of binge drinking, wonder how Father Troy Lanier is getting along? I always get nervous when he goes on the down-low and under the radar. Speaking of permanently on the down-low and under the radar, wonder how Jim Jenkins is doing? (Jim, you didn’t think I’d leave you out this quarter, did you?) Speaking of Rick Chambers, he checked in with the news that he’s still sittin’ in his chair – his VMI chair, that is. BR Chambers had a bit of a renovation going on at his healthful and pleasant abode and had to configure a makeshift study/office. So, he found a great chair for the space with his old VMI chair. I still have mine, too; how ’bout the rest of you? How many still remember your laundry number? For extra credit, do you remember your dyke’s laundry number? My dyke’s laundry number was 283; as Dave Grimm might say, awww, you know what Dave Grimm might say.

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The good news for ’86 is that the new chief of staff at VMI is our one and only James P. Inman. Chicken bite the dog! The really good news is that now we won’t have to wait in line at the public toilets; we can knock on the door at Col. Inman’s quarters on the parade deck and help ourselves to the facilities there. Be a sport, and bring your own reading material, please. Just when you build ’em up, something happens to tear ’em down. It was noted a few editions back that Brother Rat Woolwine, R.F., still had his Christmas tree up in May/June 2012. Well, when that was printed in the Alumni Review, ol’ Roy got some grief from some of the females in his life, and he buckled under the pressure, and took it down. A delegation met and temporarily rescinded BR Woolwine’s man card, then gave it back after it was determined that none of the jury had ever had their Christmas tree up that long – ever. Speaking of spring break, Stew Barnes just had to get away. The lingering winter has been holding back his three days per week golf habit, and he was so burned out on skiing, he ventured off on a spring getaway in a warmer climate. Of course, not to a Motel 6 or Days Inn somewhere; this is His Honor Stewart L. Barnes, Esquire, we’re talking about. He went “on holiday” to the very tony resort of Hilton Head, SC. For those of us who work for a living, that’s in the “other America” where the well-heeled, white-shoe crowd like BR Barnes spend their time. While biking around the island after croquet but before afternoon high tea, he gets accosted by two youngsters who run up to him and start jabbering away in a foreign language. One might imagine they were simply foreign tourists and had never seen a head that big on a live human being before, but such was not the case. The tots in question were speaking Danish. One of Barnes’ former co-habitants in room 150 married a girl from Denmark and now lives in Copenhagen – where his kids speak, big surprise, Danish. Being slow of foot and dim-witted, ol’ Stew (as Tom McHugh used to say) “failed to see the correlation between the two” and didn’t recognize the Ashworth kids right away. Of course, the long story longer is that Chris Ashworth and his family were visiting his parents in the states and happened to be at Hilton Head the same time Stew was there. Their stay over-lapped by two days, and BR Ashworth said that BR Barnes stuck him for a bar tab and a lunch bill. Nicknames are always a great topic. One of the greatest things about VMI is the nicknames; everyone had one – some were flattering and some not so much. OK, none of them were really flattering – any physical infirmity or deformity you happened to have became the basis of your nickname. While on the subject of large beans, we had in our class alone: Wedgehead, Toaster-

head, Melonhead, Musclehead, Leatherhead, Bullethead, Boxhead and just plain Head. Did I leave any out? The bits and pieces news from Linked In and Facebook includes the following: Steve Gray is fixing to retire from active duty in the USAF; not sure about his next step just yet. Mike Colletti just started a new gig with Ukrops Dress Express; they offer promotional materials and custom logo shirts, hats, etc. Andy “GrapeApe” Mason is back in Richmond and working for the contractor fulfillment department at Lowe’s. Mike Lakos is still in the San Antonio area with the USAF and is trying to corral Glen Ralston – I hope he can and want to see photographic proof. To borrow an old Indian phrase, we haven’t seen Ralston in many moons. Or Jim Radle. Or John Rapacki. Or Joe Ruf. Or Billy McTyre. Or Stephone “Sugar Bear” Jones. Let’s get some news on one of these guys or another semi-missing BR. Don’t make me call Tim Spivey and get the long arm of the law to track one of you down! Long about mid-April, there was a sizable contingent of BRs who gathered to play in the March Madness golf tourney which raises funds for the Duke Cancer Center in memory of Kerry Keilty and Paige Woolwine. I had the privilege to play with Stew Barnes, Al Comer and my old Rat roomie, Phil Howard. Dan Monahan and Jim Frazier brought in some ringers and won the tourney but not without some question of certification, the code of a gentleman and so forth. The funniest part of the event was hearing the recount of a conversation that had taken place on the course between BR Frazier and one of the homeowners who tried to heckle the golfers and picked the wrong guy when he verbally challenged BR Frazier. Jim gave the fool what for and put him back in his chair a bit. It was a funny tale as told by BR Monahan. I’m sure Dan wouldn’t embellish, would he? Well, that’s a wrap – this is a day late, and I’m a couple of dollars short, but I’ll send it in anyway. Hope to connect with a few more guys in this coming quarter. Right, John Rapacki? Take care, BRs, and someone send me some news.

’87

Gerry Tertychny

Brother Rats, Sadly, I have to report the death of Capt. David M. Smith, USN, who passed away on March 17, 2013. Dave was serving in Italy at the time of his death, and he is survived by his wife, Lisa, and his three children, Malena, Aubrey, and Michael. Many of you knew of Dave’s passing, and several

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CLASS NOTES of our class attended his funeral in Lancaster, PA, including Mike Wright, Chip Hancock, Bob Buxton and Bob Merkel. In addition, Mark Lund delivered the eulogy. Dave’s obituary appears in the Taps section of this issue. Dave’s life was one of exceptional service, both to the Navy and to the nation. He was an outstanding Brother Rat and a great personal friend of mine, as he was to a great many of us. Dave will be sorely missed – please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers. John Ferguson checked in from Afghanistan, where he was working at NATO Special Operations Component Command-Afghanistan. Based on his estimation, he should be back in the U.S. and working at the Center for Army Analysis by the time this issue goes to print. Interestingly, John told me that his twin girls’ birthday is 18 April, and his wife’s birthday is 11 November, so he really has no excuses when it comes to remembering them. Thank you for your service, John, and welcome home! (Editor’s Note: See photo of Ferguson and others in the “In Theater” section at the front of this Review.) I also spoke to Greg Scott in mid-May. He is feeling much better and is back to work. Greg’s son, Brice, will be a second classman next fall and was just elected to the Honor Court. Greg is justifiably proud of his son, and I think we all share a certain satisfaction in knowing that our Brother Rats’ children, young men like Brice, are contributing to the Institute and to the nation in so many ways. I ran into (literally) Neal Robinson recently, out on the path that runs around our neighborhood. However, as both of us were moving with a purpose, we couldn’t stop to chat. Hopefully, I’ll get over to see him soon, as we only live about a mile apart. Last, I also heard from Ernie Edgar that Col. Mark Johnson, USAF, was recently selected for promotion to brigadier general, and that Col. Steve Cade, USA, was selected for O-6 command. Great news – congratulations, Mark and Steve, on your fantastic accomplishments and a heartfelt thanks to both of you and to your families for all of your years of service to the Air Force, the Army and to our country! In the Spirit, Gerry

’88

Like most good cadets, I have run up to the due date for my project – nothing that a little extra stress can’t help! But the good news is its New Market Day, and for whatever reason, I feel a little closer to my Brother Rats on this day. Maybe it was the Facebook updates that started to change last night with pictures of the parade from years past. Whatever it is, let’s get on with the updates.

Class of 1989: On the first Friday of the month, Richmond area members of the class of ’89 gather for breakfast. At the April breakfast were, from left, Nat Cross, Ned Cox, Tom Henning, Ren O’Ferrall, Gary Sibayan, Derek McCown, Gordy Fox, Ashley Fairchild, Tom Spivey and Tom Hamner.

Drew McKone

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the class of 1988 for this issue.

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’89

Nathaniel L. Cross

In February, Billy Miller got together in Baltimore for one of his dinners. In attendance: Gordy Fox, J.C. Gregory, Brian Pannell, Keith Sykes, Alan Stoneman, Pedro DeJesus and John Osborn, plus Mark Cager and P.X. English from the class of ’90. Exact information, other than attendees, is hard to obtain. Although several e-mails mention they should have used pictures to fill in the gaps. They are blaming old age for that, and for now, I guess we can believe them. Billy, as our self-appointed “Julie from the ‘Love Boat,’” keeps updates for the next event at www.1989vmi.com. Check it out often, as he tries to have a gathering once a quarter. Thanks for the effort, Billy, and for keeping us together. I mentioned in the last notes that Andy

Class of 1989: Natalie Ryan and Sean Raborn were married at Natalie’s home in Australia in October 2012. According to Raborn, “The wedding was held on the beach, north of Cairns, off of the Great Barrier Reef … We rented a couple of houses, and everyone came to stay for five days.” From left were Sean Miller ’87, Carri Miller, the bride and groom, and Kim and Chad Townsend.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Tunnard, working for the New Jersey DOT, the Colorado chapter, and those guys met with us. I want to thank Terrence for faithfully reportmust have been busy during Sandy. Well, that He reports that he is working hard when he’s not ing on his connections with our BRs in Richwas an understatement, as you can imagine. I coaching pole vaulting at the high school level. mond. It’s an active group, and I’m pleased to have seen a picture (Andy and Gov. Christie), Now would be a great time to send me an pass along his updates. as well as an article about the amount of work update! It was great to hear from Mark Hennigan who that Andy and his team put in. It is in the Alumni checked in from the Pentagon. Mark is working News section of this edition, so please look for with the National Guard Bureau Joint Staff in Robert Clark it. Andy, the Institute was definitely heard from, Global Force Management. Mark is happy to run during those weeks and months you worked into a number of VMI grads in “The Building.” so hard. Mike Manning e-mailed and passed along Our numbers continue to grow as a “second that he, Mike Swanson, Laurence Farrell, generation.” I have been told by both Rob Gates Weedon Gallagher, and their associated wives and Steve Chiles that their sons plan on attending Greetings, BRs. Hope you are all having a ter- and girlfriends were able to have a mini-reunion the honorable and pleasant abode next year. I also rific summer 2013, and it was great to hear from in Lexington recently. The group is now living saw on Facebook that Andrew Rose’s son made you guys this winter and spring! fairly close to each other and intends to get it through the Ratline and is now a third. To keep Terrence Kerner dropped me a line to pass together much more often. Mike was recently adding, Al Versoza’s son, Mitch, is looking into along that Barry Johnson is now working with promoted and will take over Infantry Weapons the “I,” as well as some government-sponsored Terence’s company, Atlantic Constructors. Barry Systems at Marine Corps Systems Command trade schools out of state. is a senior project manager, helping to set up a in Quantico. Speaking of hard work, at the class agents meet- new Atlantic office in Roanoke. The latest news out of the First Marine Corps ing, we received a briefing on the Corps’ trip to Terrence’s son is finishing his Rat year and is Division? Minter Ralston reports that he and President Obama’s Inauguration Parade. What an doing well as a mechanical engineering major. his wife, Stacy, welcomed Minter B. Ralston effort! Moving 1,500 cadets and stuff to D.C. and As you may recall, Terrence’s son matriculated V on March 21, 2013. Congratulations to the back, plus going through the security. The cadets with 10 classmates from Benedictine High School Ralston family! who gave the brief did a great job, and during in Richmond, and all of them made it through If you’re looking for dental work in Columthe middle of it, on a PowerPoint slide, is Mitch their fourth class year. Sounds like our alumni in bia, Chris Huff is your guy. Chris checked Fridley’s text to the S-3 informing him the parade Richmond know how to pick them … in and passed along that he recently traveled is a go. So, Mitch was very busy over Christmas Terrence also passed along that he recently had to Cartagena, Columbia, for a mission trip to break and into January. But I heard from him lunch with Tony Baker, who works for Philip provide dental care. Chris was accompanied that he will be taking next year off from VMI Morris in Richmond. Tony and his wife, Wendy, by his assistant, Chari Chamberlain, whose and attending the U.S. Army Resident Army War are doing well. son, James Akers, graduated with the class of College. Sidebar: The cheer you just heard was Finally, Terrence and Mark Cunningham also 2013. If you’d prefer to get your dental work from the current cadets, knowing that “Iron Eyes” recently caught up over lunch. Mark is with Do- done stateside, Chris is also your man. He was Fridley will be out for a year! It’s tough when minion Power in Richmond. recently voted the #1 dentist in the New River/ the commandant’s staff know all the Blacksburg area – his third year tricks of the trade. Mitch will be back in a row capturing the top spot. after his schooling and, hopefully, He claims he also won the award will continue to train young minds as for “best bedside manner,” but his the ops officer for the commandant. roomies in 112 have asked for a Now that I know the speed at which recount. Seriously, congratulations this works, I am comfortable in writto Chris for dominating dentistry in ing that, before you get this edition, the Old Dominion! you will have received a “save the Finally, Rick Neff passed along date” letter from me regarding the that he recently started a new job 25th Reunion. It is just a year away as senior network engineer for and will be here before you know it. Roanoke City Public Schools. Rick Please make sure that you are makand his wife, Deb, are pleased to be ing plans to come, contacting other in Roanoke after relocating from BRs so they come and generally Milwaukee. They’ve enjoyed a getting fired up! If you haven’t, take winter without snow. As you should the time to update your contact info. know, Rick is the keeper of the 1990 My plan is to start using e-mails as website and Facebook pages. As the information and planning start always, we encourage everyone to to take shape. update Rick on new developments The guys in Richmond continue for posting on both the website and to meet for breakfast once a month, Facebook. Rick does a great job, and and I encourage you to do the same we appreciate his support in keeping Class of 1990: Chris Huff and his assistant, Chari Chamin your area. us all connected. berlain, in Cartagena, Columbia, where they participated I was fortunate to spend time with Until next time, have a safe and in a mission trip to provide dental services to those in Van Trumpore at the class agents fun summer! need. Chamberlain is the mother of James Akers ’13. meeting. Van is/was the president of Rob

’90

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CLASS NOTES

’91

George Petty III

Hello, all. I hope your summer is passing well. Spring sure was nice in the valley, and around Richmond, the grass and trees seemed greener than last year. Pete Dillon sent a photo of John Kao and himself. I will have circulated it by e-mail as it did not possess enough pixels for print. John and Pete were Rat roommates in room 452. John is a lawyer in Beijing, and Pete continues on active duty as a Marine. Pete returns to the East Coast at the Pentagon in July 2013.

Chuck Story provided an information-rich e-mail. A bunch of BRs met in Bedford County, Virginia, over the first weekend of May to celebrate Bob Cole’s birthday. Also on the agenda were turkey hunting, tall tales and, I suspect, the type of hijinks that occur with more than one VMI guy present. No turkeys were harmed during this gathering. Some of those there, besides Chuck and Bob, were David Manning, Bucky Bridges, Buck Sessoms, Charlie Schindler and Kenny Draper. Bob and Chuck are coaches for their sons’ U9 lacrosse team. Ian Story and Bobby Cole Jr. are midfielders on the Forest, VA, lacrosse team, and both are on the Forest Youth Wrestling Team together. Back in the fall and winter, Charlie Cathcart,

Greg Hurst, Denton Sisk, Pat Madigan, Bob Nickel and Michael Robichaud joined Chuck and Bob for some hunting days. Chuck saw Pat Warner in the fall. Pat’s busy in Richmond these days as a police officer and is helping build up the Carytown Farmer’s Market. Todd Kuchler is busy living the family-man life in Jacksonville, FL. John Duffy is coaching his sons in lacrosse in Georgia and occasionally showing up for work at Cisco. Chris Barnett is living in Fredericksburg, running the family business with his dad. Chris Bryant is working for R L Gore, living in Delaware. His wife recently gave birth to their first child. Also celebrating a first child are Heath and Jocelyn Wells whose daughter was born in early April. They live in Alexandria, VA. Be good, or be a good example …

Adam Gregory

’92

Andy Tate Andy Tate

304 Stillwater Cove Jacksonville, NC 28546 757/537-5012; Mars92@aol.com

Class of 1991: Turkey hunting in Bedford County, Virginia, were, from left, Chuck Story, David Manning, Bucky Bridges, Bob Cole, Buck Sessoms and Charlie Schindler. Not pictured but in attendance was Kenny Draper.

Class of 1991: From left, Chuck Story, David Manning, Bucky Bridges, Bob Cole, Buck Sessoms and Charlie Schindler and their children.

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Gentlemen, I hope these notes find all of you well. Not a whole lot to report this edition. Mars and I recently traveled back to Post for the Volunteer Leaders Conference, attended by class agents and alumni chapter leaders from across

Class of 1992: Woody Woodward congratulating the Class of 1992 Memorial Scholarship awardee, second class Cadet William Cheatham.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES the country and aimed at improving collaboration and efforts to serve VMI alumni. Did this august body achieve its goal? I don’t know; history will decide. Did Andy get impatient with other alums and lecture them? Sure. Did I take hay-down through Saturday’s meetings? Of course. Pretty much your standard fare. I did learn one thing: cadets now have belt loops and engage in a practice called “looping.” A cadet we met at Macado’s happily demonstrated this for us by ripping his BR’s belt loop off, rendering him improperly dressed uptown. Good stuff. On 12 April, Woody Woodward also traveled back to Lexington, on behalf of the class scholarship committee, and attended the scholarship luncheon in the Hall of Valor. There, he met up with Cadet William Cheatham ’14, the latest recipient of the Class of 1992 Memorial Scholarship. Woody says cadet Cheatham is well deserving of the award. On our class Facebook page, I read that Chris Bergen, Colby Howard and Dave Soldow were each selected for captain. Please reach out to these guys and congratulate them on their outstanding achievement. Enjoy the rest of your summer, and consider sending along an update for the next notes. Regards, Adam

’93

Jim Sharp

Wow! Our 20th Reunion has come and gone. What a memorable weekend! We had a good attendance with numbers around 120 or so BRs and wives. To try and include all the news from the reunion would be impossible. I would like to thank a couple key individuals who helped make the weekend a success. First, Carole Green at the Alumni Association. No reunion could be pulled off without her help. The amount of time and support the Alumni Association gives class agents during the reunion planning process is amazing. As I was cleaning up my e-mail after the weekend was over, I deleted literally 100 e-mails between me and Carole. Thank you! I would also like to thank Van and Mari Hardenberg who hosted two parties. The first was Thursday night at their house and then a Saturday afternoon party at their law offices downtown in Lexington. It was an added surprise that Mari planned the week before the reunion, and it was a spectacular addition to the weekend. I wanted to also thank Brian Piccioni and Raleigh Trumbo for help Saturday afternoon in getting the kegs picked up and moved out to McKethan Park. It took some of the burden off of me. Thanks, guys. Lastly, thanks go to Steve

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Thrasher who agreed to be my designated driver Saturday night. Steve not only stayed around late Saturday night, helping me to clean up and load my jeep with things after the party, he also came back out to McKethan Sunday morning to make sure there was nothing left to be done and that I didn’t need any help. And so, with the conclusion of events and the writing of these brief class notes, I end my tenure as your class agent. I made some comments Saturday night just before we elected Jim Sharp as the new class agent. I have included them here for the benefit of those who weren’t able to attend the reunion. Good luck, Jim! If you need help, just holler. From Saturday night: “I am certainly not a great orator, but I would like to say a few words. Tonight is my last night as class agent, and this is close to my last act as your class agent. It has been an honor and a privilege to serve you guys and your families for the last five years. I have enjoyed it thoroughly, but I am also ready to pass the baton. VMI is a special place to all of us. Many people from other schools forget about the friends they made at college and the shared experiences they had. But now, we didn’t go to college, did we? We all chose to come to the Institute, and even though we didn’t know it at the time, that choice would shape our lives more than we could ever know. Spending four years in a place where HONOR is the password is a special privilege. The type of man (and now woman) that VMI produces never changes very much. They are remarkable people who go forward into life and do remarkable things. They have a spirit that cannot be broken and lead their lives in a way that many of our colleagues cannot understand. Look around you – from ’93, we have: A former pilot of Marine One; a rocket scientist at NASA; soldiers and troops of all branches and ranks; and law enforcement officers from every imaginable branch – local police, state police, ATF, FBI and Secret Service, among others. We have engineers, educators, research chemists, realtors, bankers, contractors and bartenders. And the list of varied careers is endless. More important than the jobs each of us do is the way that we conduct ourselves when we do it. It is something to be proud of and something to be cherished. The last five years have seen a lot of changes for all of us. It has been a remarkable journey for us all since our graduation almost 20 years ago. There have been marriages, divorces, promotions and career changes. There have been births and deaths. But the brotherhood remains constant. When the chips are down, you often find yourself turning to your Brother Rats for help, advice or a much needed swift kick in the pants. When things are going well and big news is to be shared, you often find yourself wanting to tell your Brother Rats first, as well. It’s a special bond we share. I implore each of you to support that bond, nurture it and honor it. It’s one of the

things that make us different than everyone else (that, and our consummate love of tobacco and alcohol). When we were cadets in 1993, we all had to sit down and write the comments we wanted published in the Bomb. I wrote the following, being the all-knowing 22-year-old that I was … “From the 1993 Bomb: “I have learned more this year about VMI than I have in the past three years. I don’t love it more or hate it more; I just know it more. I won’t miss this place, but I don’t regret coming here either. I’m glad I did come here for all the friends I have made. When I came to VMI, I had this grand notion about what a VMI man was; now I’m not so sure. Maybe I’ll find out after I leave. “You know what … I did! You are VMI men, and you bring to the table all things good in this world. You lead your lives in a fashion that others don’t get. Intangible words such as honor, integrity, service, dedication and perseverance become tangible through your actions and the way you lead your daily lives. Thank you for teaching me over the last 20 years what it means to be a VMI man. “Before I close, I ask that each of you join me in a moment of silence in memory of all those who aren’t with us today – particularly our Brother Rats Paul Syverson and Tom Miller who gave the last full measure in defense of our country and our way of life. “And so now I close as I have so many issues of our class notes: To those serving, I offer my now old compliments. I can’t say it enough – how much we all appreciate the sacrifices you make and have made in the past. We are all better people for knowing you. God bless the armed forces, the Virginia Military Institute and the class of 1993.” That’s the ballgame for the old guy – see you on the other side. Bill

’94

Christopher L. Doyle

Greetings, Brother Rats. In my last notes, I asked you to contact a Brother Rat that you have not spoken with and simply say, “Hi.” I received a few calls and was glad to hear that others did, too. If you have not done so yet, please take time to make your call. I want to thank those who were able to make it to Jake King’s memorial service in J.M. Hall this past April. The class was well represented, and we were able to honor Jake in a proper way. Special thanks go to Pat O’Neil who gave a fitting and well thought-out eulogy to his roommate. Adam Strickland and his wife, Diane, along

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Class of 1993: Those who attended their 20th Reunion are listed in alphabetical order as follows: John Barefoot, Kevin Barnes, William Bono, Wesley Bosiger, Joseph Buchanan, Alonzo Cabell Jr., Thomas Carlsen, Jonathan Casarotti, Brian Cox, William Cox, Daniel Crawford, James Delk, Matthew Eads, Timothy Ervin, Craig Eubank, Sean Farley, Matthew Gill, Richard Goodman II, Stephen Grim, Marron Hak, Charles Hardenbergh, Kelly Holbert, Michael Howard, David Hurst, Benjamin Lilly, Michael Livingston, Christopher Martin, Nicholas Martinson, Robert Matson, Creg Matthews, Paul Meadows, Richard Nevitt, Neil Osbon, Jon Pardew, Samuel Partin, Brian Piccioni, Darin Ramsey, Hunter Rawlings IV, James Richards, James Roman, Kevin Roop, Jamie Shiflett, Bryan Shorter, Kevin Smith, James Smith III, Charles Spears, David Stokes, Douglas Stransky, Blake Svendsen, Maximillian Swoboda IV, Stephen Thrasher, John Timmons, Raleigh Trumbo, Michael Tuck, Rodney Turbak, Mark Wetherill, Matthew Williams, Tucker Worsham, Phayseng Xayavong and Pong Yim.

CLASS NOTES

20th Reunion â&#x20AC;&#x201D; April 26-27, 2013

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CLASS NOTES Rob Riviere and his wife at the Gold Cup. They had a good time catching up and enjoyed what Sean said were some “potent mint juleps” prepared by other VMI alumni. Sean said he and Emily have planned to attend next year and hope some BRs may be able to join them. Clay Campbell is in the process of opening a vintage women’s clothing store in Fredericksburg. He recently secured a startup loan with some help from the chamber of commerce and found some retail space. He has been traveling to garage sales and other places to get his hands on some merchandise. Piggy says it has been a lot Class of 1994: Brother Rats Jim Hewitt, George Karavetsos, Robert Taylor and Kevin of work, but he is very excited to get Vermillion vacationed with their families at the Outer Banks. up and running. Good luck, Pig! We’ll with some Marines Adam served with, recently Fred Barber is assigned to Fort Bragg. He and make sure to spread the word to our wives. started a non-profit organization. The “Fund for his wife had their second child last fall. His wife Please make plans to attend our 20th (ouch!!) Fallen Allies” (http://fundforfallenallies.org/) is running a very successful dental practice in Fay- Reunion in Lexington on April 25-26, 2014. I look helps former allies who now find themselves etteville, if any BRs are looking for a great dentist. forward to seeing you there. impoverished and unable to better their situaRay James is living in Charlotte, NC, where he tions, as a consequence of their support to U.S. is still serving as quasi-mayor of the city. Ray’s Thomas A. Brashears civil-military operations. The organization helps health has deteriorated lately due to his attendance provide food, shelter, medicine and other as- at almost every Charlotte Bobcat home game. sistance to former allies and security personnel, Lee Worrell is in the Air Force and stationed up their families, widows, and/or orphans that remain in Fort Meade. He is busy finishing up his Ph.D., vulnerable and dependent upon the charity of state teaching classes on the weekends and juggling Dan Williams and non-state institutions. Adam gives credit to work/family. He is looking forward to retirement Diane who, along with other spouses like her, and attaining a teaching job somewhere. was moved by stories told of those “left behind” I am sad to report that Hernan Barrero recently – fearing that they would not fare well due to their lost his father. I want to pass along the condoconnection with the U.S. Both Adam and Diane lences of the class to him and his family. were influenced by their kids. Neither of them Sean and Emily Lanier were married in Turks Brother Rats, wanted to tell their kids they “could have” helped and Caicos on 25 May. The small ceremony inAs I write these notes today, New Market Day, more but chose not to, because it was too hard. cluded family and friends. The Laniers will live I cannot help but think of the selfless sacrifice, Chris Passarge is working as the chief opera- in northern Virginia. Congratulations, Sean and courage, determination and bravery those young tions officer for the seventh largest public school Emily! Sean wrote that he recently met up with cadets showed back in 1864. If there’s ever a system in Ohio. Chris plans to run day better than another to come back the Marine Corps Marathon in Octo campus, it’s May 15th … what a tober and wants to hear from anyfantastic, moving parade and what an one interested in running with him. incredible opportunity to remember Sean Harrington is serving as an such an important part of what makes executive officer in the Air Staff’s our beloved VMI simply awesome. A1. His son, Jon, is in the process of I received a note from Brad Coleman putting together an early admission recently. He, Charles Stanley and Jeff application to VMI. Sean took his Godby connected in Lexington in U17 soccer travel team to VMI in early April. Charles lives and works in March to be a part of the “Conway Chapel Hill, NC. Charles is a regional Cup” in support of Tony Conway manager for Cannondale bicycles. Jeff, ’01, assistant soccer coach at VMI who owns Superior Plumbing & Gas, who is battling Lou Gehrig’s disand his family live in Columbia, SC. ease. Info on Tony is available at They were at VMI with their children http://www.dontshrink.com/. He for Legacy Day. And as I think I’ve is no longer able to work, and his mentioned before, Brad is now workClass of 1994: In November 2012, Brother Rats and wives wife recently stopped working to ing at VMI as the George J. Collins Sr. took a trip to VMI for the Citadel-VMI football game. At stay home and care for him and Chair in Military History and director Lee-Hi Truck Stop were, from left, Robert Taylor, Matt their two kids. The family is in a of the John Adams ’71 Center for Ankrum, Kevin Vermillion and George Karavetsos. tough situation. Military History & Strategic Analysis.

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CLASS NOTES Seeing as how he lives a stone’s salmon and sunshine for rain but are throw away from me, I see and talk excited to get back to the states and with Matt Reiner quite often. He, all the familiarity that comes with Vicky and daughter Emelyn are doit.” Nate is currently the assistant ing well and are even pondering a operations officer for NAVFAC dive into the alpaca farm business. Europe/Africa/Southwest Asia in I also talk to his former roommates, Naples. Congratulations on your Stu Mallory and Arie Richards, new little one, Nate! every now and then. Stu is here in The newly pinned Lt. Col. Chris northern Virginia, and I believe Arie Noe is in Fort Knox, KY, assigned is working with JSOC at Fort Bragg. to the Army’s Casualty and MortuDuring a recent trip up to Fort ary Affairs Operations Center as Drum, I was able to link up for a the chief of operations. Chris says, few hours with Buddy Meador. “In short, we orchestrate next of kin He’s in battalion command up there notification for every death or injury now and is currently deployed to in the U.S. Army. It is an extremely Afghanistan. Speaking of folks tough job, for all of the obvious Class of 1995: Charles Stanley, Bradley Coleman, and Jeff Godby at VMI on April 6, 2013. Their children, from from the southern, southwest Virreasons.” He recently caught up left: Henry, Oliver and Matilda Stanley; Liam, Landon ginia area, Benji Bird is PCSing with Chris Mulligan, who is a fires and Molly Coleman; and Nicholas and Zachary Godby. this summer but only back across brigade executive officer out of Fort the water from Fort McNair to the Sill, currently deployed to Kuwait. Pentagon. I spoke with Spike Solovey after he returned mom. I am sure they are awaiting Shannon’s I talk to Marlin Ikenberry quite often in all return in the next couple-few months. My wife, from his seventh deployment. He is now able to my travels back down to Lexington, and unfor- Marina, and I live in Atlanta. I am still working offer any of his military art expertly engraved tunately, this year has been a tough one for his in the federal law enforcement field within the on black marble. He is on his 81st set of prints, baseball team. They caught the injury bug early DoD in the “intelligence world,” while my wife as of this writing. After suggestions from fellow and often and struggled a bit … but there’s a ton is in finance for the UPS HQ. As we are rela- alumni, Spike composed an awesome pencil of talent on his young team, and they should be tive newlyweds since I’ve been deployed twice sketch of the front side of Barracks and is now back with a vengeance next year. to Afghanistan and other interesting locations producing 8.5-inch by 11-inch black marble I announced a Spring Football Scrimmage in around the world, we have not yet added to our pieces. Contact him or Sgt. Maj. Hockaday Roanoke recently and ran into Joe Doyle. He and family, but hopefully, we will be blessed sooner (at the Shenandoah Attic), if interested. This his lovely bride (a former Virginia State Teacher rather than later.” Thanks, Jerzy, for a fantastic engraved marble is really remarkable. He chats of the Year) are expecting their second child this note and picture … you and Shannon really do occasionally with Bob Swahn and is preparing, fall. Speaking of VMI football, the schedule is look like twins! once again, for another deployment. out, and the Keydets will open up the season on Brian Gliba also checked in to give the latest: Not much else to report on. Again, I strongly road at the University of Richmond on Aug. 31. encourage each of you to reach out to me via “It’s been a very long time, brother, and I’ve There will be a total of 12 games this season, phone, e-mail or carrier pigeon with updates. been through hell and back. I’ve had to move six of which will be at home. My best wishes to each of you and to your so much that it was hard to keep things updated. Finally, I got a great e-mail from Jerzy Mi- families, as well. I now live in Colorado near Denver. So, if you kulski. He sent the following: “ … Lt. Col. can, pass the word, and let any BRs in my area Shannon Lucas is the battalion commander of know to contact me. I’ve been out of the loop Peter Segersten the 19th MP BN (CID). I am proud to say that we for way too long. Just to give you and my BRs a served together in Afghanistan until late 2012, summary of my life since VMI, I left VMI to go when I redeployed back to CONUS and home in to grad school in Massachusetts at Springfield Atlanta. Shannon is a great commander, and his College. Did coaching and sport psychology soldiers and CID agents have a lot of respect for there. Then, I entered the Army, enlisted first him. Our initial meeting was pretty funny. We and then acquired my commission in the MediGentlemen, literally bumped into each other as we were both Good evening! I hope you and your loved cal Service Corps. Went to Iraq twice, got blown trying to fly out of Bagram Air Field – Shannon ones are doing well this summer. Fall is just up twice and now I’m medically retired, doing was on a visit to Kuwait to meet with his CID around the corner! photography for several wounded warrior proagents, and I was going to Herat on a ‘mission.’ Nathan Straub dropped me a line about the grams, as I am now an advocate of and on the We ended up sitting in the terminal for hours, happenings of the Straub family: “Still enjoy- board of a few of them.” Brian is also looking reminiscing about the ‘good ole days,’ and we ing life here in Naples, Italy. Getting in a lot of to get Brother Rats involved in the Wounded talked about family and how far we’ve come travel but slowing down since the birth of our Warrior project to possibly set something up for since we graduated from the Institute. (Editor’s daughter, Nora Kathryn. She arrived on Aug. VMI. If interested, please let him know. Great Note: See a photo of Mikulski and Lucas in the 30, 2012, and is really making us look like to hear from you, Brian, and please keep in front portion of this Review, ‘In Theater’ sec- good parents. She’s pretty easy, and no one is touch. Brian’s photography website is at www. tion.) Shannon is obviously doing great and is complaining. We are due to transfer this summer the-photo-sheriff.org. Check it out! stationed in Hawaii. He and his wife have two to Bangor, WA, where I will be the assistant Recently, an article appeared on the Drudge great and really intelligent kids who Shannon regional engineer for NAVFAC Northwest. We Report concerning Gen. Thomas “Stonewall” is very proud of – he says they get it from their will be trading the big city for nature, pasta for Jackson’s death after the battle of Chancel-

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Solovey ’96 Artwork Depicts Barracks

Spike Solovey ’96 has created a drawing of the front side of Barracks and is now producing 8.5 by 11-inch black marble pieces available in the VMI bookstore.

lorsville. The title of the article was “Surgeon: Legendary Confederate Fighter Stonewall Jackson Death Likely Pneumonia” by Brett Zongker. Lo and behold, the “Surgeon” was none other than Joey DuBose! In the article, Joey talks about the high probability that Jackson had died from pneumonia after being shot mistakenly by a Confederate unit after a scouting mission in the wilderness area near Chancellorsville. According to the article, Joey is a surgeon and professor at the University of Maryland. John Adams is once again representing our class. He has been selected to be a member of the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees. Congratulations, John! Recently, I was able to disconnect myself from the beltway and spend the weekend in Knoxville, TN, to celebrate the First Communion of my goddaughter, who is the daughter of Chris Jones. Also in attendance was Lawson Fanney. It was a great weekend to see everyone, catch up, laugh and reminisce about times past. My wife and I also had dinner with John Pearce and his wife in Clifton. It was great catching up with them, too. Turn to the “Our Alumni Serving” section of this Alumni Review to see a photo of Jethro Piland, Steve Taylor and Brady Crone, who attended the Hanover County 2013 Spirit of Volunteerism Celebration. That is it for this round of class notes! Pete Segersten

2013-Issue 3

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David Zirkle

coming a new addition this fall. He also finished his master’s in IT at Virginia Tech. He agrees with the Old Corps that his Hokie diploma will come in handy if the diapers run out. Billy wanted to thank “everyone for a great reunion weekend. The whole family enjoyed it. When you ask my 3-year-old what he wants to be when he grows up, he’ll say, ‘a cadet!’” Ed Bonham wrote to say, “It’s been an interesting year so far. In addition to my normal duties with the department, I have been teaching a fire class in the high school. Additionally, my wife and I have been raising two nephews and a niece for the last year. Lots of challenges. But that’s what keeps life interesting, I guess.” Joe and Cris Howard “went on the VMI cruise this year. We got to spend time with a bunch of great alumni and the rest of the VMI family, while sailing around the Caribbean. Also, we are still jumping out of planes and routinely run into VMI alumni at Skydive AZ.” Billy Edmunds reports that he is moving “to Fort Stewart, GA, to spend some time with the Army and work with the JTACs the AF provides to coordinate with the Army. I will miss flying the B-1, but I achieved 2,500 hours and several deployments. The family is ready for a new challenge.” Joel Harding is back from a year in Kabul. His beard made the trip but met with a straight razor on its arrival in the states. He “was in Afghanistan and was the operations and plans officer for the embassy’s Protective Operations Division. Basically, I was the S-3 for our protection teams. It was a fantastic gig and the best year of my professional life. I am now on leave, waiting to report to the Secretary of State’s Protection Detail here in Washington. This will be a two-year gig and should involve a lot more travel. I’m looking very forward to it.” (See photos of Joel in the front of this Alumni Review – the “In Theater” section. One of the photos also includes Jason Roberts.) Things have been pretty quiet here in Atlee.

As I compile these notes, the class of 2013 is contemplating their imminent graduation, and summer seems to have descended on Hanover County. Gary Compton and I attended the memorial celebration for Jake King ’94 back in March. For those of you who don’t remember, Jake was (in no particular order) a physics major, Homer Komthirath’s dyke and all around good guy. He will be missed by his family and all those who knew him. Billy Scott and Drace Clevenger both wrote to announce new additions to the family. Priscilla Scott was born back in December, and Mirabella Grace Clevenger arrived on March 17th. Speaking of which, Brett Ogletree wrote to say that he and his Class of 1997: Mirabella Grace Clevenger. wife would be wel-

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CLASS NOTES I ran into Jason Ancarrow and Mike Zirkle the same week at different grocery stores. I am starting on a Ph.D. in healthcare policy and research this fall at VCU. I will be a research assistant, which will hopefully give me a head start on my dissertation. Enjoy the rest of summer!

Hamel Reinmiller

’98

John A. Strock

I am excited to have the opportunity to be in touch with all of you directly and to take on the responsibility of handling our class notes. I want to start by thanking Hamel Reinmiller for all he has done for our class and all that he continues to do. Ham has kept us in the loop and will carry on as the driving force behind all of our class events. I know he will continue to be involved in

Class of 1998: Watson Adams Mundy II was born on June 21, 2012, to Stinson and Gardner Mundy. this process, and he has pledged his help when I need it. Thanks, Ham! Having taken on this role, it occurred to me that I have never submitted an update myself. I am currently living in Falls Church, VA, just a few miles outside of D.C. I have been married to my wife, Betsy, for two years now, and we bought our first house about 18 months ago. I am the executive

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director for a non-profit mentoring organization called the ACE Mentor Program of America. ACE is an after-school program for high school students interested in architecture, construction and engineering, including the skilled trades. Being in the D.C. metro area, I have had the fortune of running into many VMI folks. I see Lang White regularly. He is doing very well as a project manager in the construction world and lives just a few miles from me. An avid outdoorsman, he teaches fly fishing techniques in his spare time. I might have even converted him into a Redskins fan. I have also spent some time with Brook Barbour who is in the area with his wife, MK, and daughter, Hadley Jane. While at Brook’s house recently, I got to hang out with Bob Heely who lives around the corner. He, his wife, Johanna, and their daughter, Hazel, welcomed Hattie Eliza to their family on May 3rd. Hattie weighed 7 lbs., 13 oz. and was 21-1/4 inches long. Mommy and baby are doing great! Needless to say, he’s truly outnumbered now. I also heard from the Cooke brothers, and both are doing well. Todd Cooke and his wife, Sally, are in Williamsburg, VA, with their girls. He runs all of the audio production and more for a local theater. He is also an animal on a mountain bike, from what I’m told. Brad Cooke and his wife, Shayna, are in Richmond, VA, both teaching at Collegiate High School. Their son, Cyrus, turns 4 soon, and they are looking forward to spending the summer in Colorado, their home away from home. Gardner Mundy is also living and teaching in Richmond. He and his wife, Stinson, have a son, Watson, and are enjoying life! Bryan Bailey has been globetrotting and has most recently settled in Billings, MT, with his wife. He reports that things are good out west. I keep in close contact with Dan Smith, and we talk at least once or twice a week. He and his wife, Anna, run a medical equipment sales company based in Richmond that just keeps growing throughout the state. BR Adam Werner also works with them, while he and wife Stephanie enjoy time with their three children, Zachary, Luke and Sydney. Chris Cooley is his life coach. I got a great note from Matt Staton updating me on all he has been doing. I’m really proud of Matt. As a wounded vet himself, he continues his service at the Pentagon for the benefit and rehabilitation of other wounded vets. He currently serves as the advisor to the Secretary of the Army on all matters concerning ill, injured and combat-wounded vets. He coaches sports teams for his daughter, Sami, and is a peer counselor for wounded soldiers and their families. He’s also a certified level 1 disabled Alpine ski instructor, as well as being certified in Krav Maga, which is Israeli hand-to-hand combat fighting. There are so many great things happening with

members of the class of 1998. Please continue to send me updates, and I will get as much squeezed into our section as I can. Don’t forget to book your rooms for the September Reunion!

’99

William Steinbach

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the class of 1999 for this issue.

’00

Matthew McComas

Brother Rats, For this report, I have the pleasure of leading off with two big updates. The first is very dear to me, because my wife, Meredith, and I are expecting our first child around mid-September! We are both very excited and looking forward to the joys of parenthood. We have decided to keep it a surprise until the little one arrives. Who knows … someday our child may be a Brother Rat/Sister Rat in the class of 2035 with some of your children! Second, for those of you who have not already seen it on the class e-mail list or Facebook, I would like to announce some exciting news about one of our very own. Recently, Dan Alvarez contacted me to tell me of his decision to enter the race for district attorney in Philadelphia, PA. As many of you may remember, Dan has been interested in the pursuit of justice since at least our first class year, when he served as the inaugural defense council on the OGA, making sure that accused upperclassmen received a fair defense. After graduation, Dan received his law degree from American University-Washington College of Law in Washington, D.C., before getting his professional start as an assistant district attorney in the Philadelphia district attorney’s office. He served there for eight years, including stints as a Gun Court prosecutor and as a member of the Gun Violence Task Force. As district attorney, Dan would focus not only on gun violence, but also on public corruption. He feels that “every dime that is wasted in corruption, fraud and abuse is a dime that is converted into a bullet used out on the street.” I have the utmost respect and faith that Dan will make a great district attorney and help to improve the lives of all the citizens of Philadelphia. If you would like to help out Dan in his quest to be the next district attorney for Philadelphia, please visit his campaign website at www.da4da2013.com, and of course, if you live

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CLASS NOTES in the Philadelphia area or know someone who recently listed their townhouse and plan to close was hiding in the closet, claiming he had just come does, spread the word about what a great guy in June. Christian joined Amazon Web Services back from the gym. Of course, the night only went Dan is and how he can help make the city better. in late 2012, and they are looking to relocate to downhill from there, as our favorite Bally’s Wild Special thanks to Ian Doyle who answered my the McLean area to be closer to work and life. Wild West (home of $5 blackjack tables) was shut challenge from the previous Alumni Review and And, finally, checking in from the San Francisco down for what we think was a renovation to bring passed on an update this time. Along with leaving Bay area, Conrad Bicknell reports that he, his it up to 1980s standards. We ended up losing all the federal government at the end of 2012 and wife, Leonie, and their children, Vince and Elias, our money fairly quickly and woke up the next beginning a career at IBM, Ian and his family sold are doing well. Conrad left active duty recently morning with more than half of our alcohol, but their house in Fredericksburg with plans to relo- and is working a full-time job as a stay-at-home we still look forward to next year’s trip. cate to the Loudoun County area in June. Loudoun dad, while working three (!) part-time jobs: Flying Jonathan Mazur let me know that Jessica and County and the surrounding area (I live just over F-5s in the Navy Reserve out of Fallon, NV; work- Jon are expecting their second child in mid-July. the mountain in Clarke County) is becoming the ing as a DOD contractor with Ausley Associates; They are also planning to move out of Arlington home to quite a few Brother Rats. We are glad to and starting as a flight instructor at an FBO in and are looking for more property south of the have you in the neighborhood, Ian! Palo Alto, CA. Conrad keeps in touch with Chuck beltway. As Jon said, he is “tired of having to Following up on another note from last Alumni Minski, Micah North and Nick Castleberry and pick up after my dog for the past eight years and Review, I mentioned that Tony Cerella was head- recently had dinner with Pat Haddock who was having to pay to park in front of my own house.” ing to Korea for his next assignment, and I wished in San Mateo, CA, on a business trip. Jason Whitaker reports that, in February, he that he have as much excitement there as at his That concludes the updates for this issue. I “had the honor of playing in the 2nd Annual previous assignment in Australia. When I wrote appreciate all the updates I receive but would Conway Cup Tournament for Tony Conway held those words, I certainly did not expect the type of like to hear from more of you. Even if you are at W&L’s campus. Joining the illustrious ‘Gotel excitement that gripped the area this past spring. just checking in to report on the goings-on and Confederacy’ team was Parker Reeves, Nate So, here is hoping for a SAFE, PEACEFUL and whereabouts of other Brother Rats, let me know, Charles, Justin Harber, Fred Hair, Jim Bourie, exciting deployment at Camp Humphreys, South so I can spread the word. Stay safe, take care and Chris Simpson and our F-Troop representative, Korea, Tony. keep in touch! Hassan Grari, who flew in all the way from Texas As Tony enters, another Brother Rat leaves the to play with us on the pitch. This year, we finally Korean peninsula. After a year stationed in Korea won a game, although it came by forfeit, because Brandon Farris with the Air Force, Brad Allen and wife Natalie the other team did not show up. We had a great have been sent to NAS Pensacola where Brad time playing the VMI cadet soccer club, which took command of 359 TRS/Detachment 1. As the ran circles around us while they enjoyed listenonly Air Force officer among sailors and Marines, ing to our wisecracking jokes about cadet life. Brad feels a little weird but is enjoying leading Altogether, the day was filled with camaraderie, the newest airmen entering the maintenance career and we were happy to represent ’01 for Tony. field. Brad reports that he and Natalie are “loving Brother Rats, Despite the fun on the field, the highlight of the the area and looking forward to meeting up with I hope everyone is doing well and finding some day was spending some time with Tony who had Ryan Cengeri soon.” time to get away in the summer. a full schedule that day, helping run the tournaA final follow up, as I reported in the last class Drew Carbone, Steve Kolenich, Will Felvey ment and passing out trophies to the winners. notes, Derek Engelhard and wife Jennifer were and I started out spring with a trip that we hope Tony and his family appreciate all the support expecting their second child in late February. Son to make an annual event – a long drive to Atlantic everyone continues to provide them. Get your Lucas arrived a little ahead of schedule in early City. We often say that we are doing pretty well cleats and shin guards ready, because we plan on February and was welcomed by his parents and big for ourselves, yet still haven’t gotten out of the playing again next year and invite all BRs to join sister, Annelise. Congratulations to the expanded trend of only renting one hotel room, no matter us, create an additional team or just come cheer Engelhard family! how many of us there are. You could tell we are from the stands. Jim Bourie has returned from Craig Giorgis checked in from Boston where he getting older when the highlights of the trip were France and is now living and working in D.C. pulls triple duty as the Marine officers instructor the Borgata buffet and the 45 minutes we spent Never fear, though, as ’01 maintains excellent (MOI) for the Navy ROTC units at Boston Univer- on FaceTime with Brother Rat Daniels, while he representation in Europe – Adam Stanley-Smith sity, MIT and Harvard. Craig reports was joined there by Jarek Dyhouse that he, wife Karen and son Owen who relocated to Germany for work are great and loving life. last summer. Fred Hair is finishing up Reporting from Cypress, CA, is Ed public affairs training after completPearson, where he and his wife reing graduate school at the University cently purchased a home. Ed reports of Georgia and will be moving to his that his son, Ed III, “loves exploring next assignment at Fort Bragg, NC. his new home and has had a lot of Parker Reeves and Nate Charles fun playing in the various parks close continue to control all things Roanoke, to the house.” Ed still contracts with and Josh Berk and his wife, Chanda, Northrop Grumman in El Segundo, have moved back to the D.C. area CA, and travels to northern Virginia and welcomed their first child, Ewan one week a month. Next time you are Gregory Berk, born on March 27, Class of 2001: From left were Will Felvey, Brandon Farin the Reston area, hit me up for beer 2013. Both Momma Berk and Baby ris, Steve Kolenich and Drew Carbone at the Taj Mahal (on me), Ed! Berk are doing well! I’d like to thank in Atlantic City, New Jersey. Christian Arllen and his wife everyone who provided financial and

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 2001: From left, Justin Harber, Jason Whitaker, Hassan Grari, Nate Charles, Tony Conway and service dog Jake, Parker Reeves, Jim Bourie, Fred Hair and Chris Simpson at the 2nd Annual Conway Cup in Lexington, Virginia.

Class of 2001: Keydets and Citadel graduates from VT-27, from left, Lt. Cmdr. Chris Tychnowitz, Citadel; Ensign Shane Woodard, Citadel; Cmdr. J.R. Miller, Citadel; Cmdr. Marc Orgain ’92 and Lt. Cmdr. Anthony Bravo.

Class of 2001: A congressional delegation to Afghanistan in May 2012 included Sen. Saxby Chambliss, R-Georgia.; Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-California; Rep. Dutch Ruppersberger, D-Maryland; Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Michigan and Ethan Weber.

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Class of 2001: Jeff Kuehne and his wife, Steph, at Mt. Everest base camp. spiritual support for Rich Donohue ’02 and his family over recent months after the injuries he sustained while chasing down the Boston terrorists. It is great to see the true heart and spirit of my ’01 BRs pull together to help people in need. God bless from Woodbridge, VA!” Jeff Kuehne wrote that his wife, Steph, and he had a chance to go on their honeymoon to Nepal and Bhutan last November. They trekked all the way up to 21,000 feet in Nepal, to the top of Island Peak near Mt. Everest. Jeff also said that, in that region of Nepal, it stayed around 30 degrees during the day, but the wind was crazy. It got much colder at night, and none of the lodging rooms had any heat. He appreciated that Steph was willing to go on such a crazy trip for their honeymoon! I guess the only way to top it is to climb Mt. Everest … although that is not on their radar any time soon. Anthony Bravo is currently working as an operations engineer in the oil industry for BHP Billiton, as well as serving as a Navy reservist, teaching young student Navy aviators how to fly in the T34C TurboMentor. The skipper of VT-27 (Cmdr. Mark Orgain ’92) is a VMI alumnus, while the squadron augment unit commander for the reservist is a Citadel grad. Kevin Fromm wrote to say he is finishing up his third and last year of ROTC duty at George Mason University, as well as his master’s in political science (done in August). In September, Kevin is heading for the Army War College for just over three months for his basic strategist course, and then it’s back to good ole Fort Bragg, NC, to work in the G3 at FORSCOM (Army Forces Command) for two to three years. Kevin is hoping to go out to Montana again to visit Ben Griffith who just moved out there. He’s also going to try and swing a trip over to Germany, if he can. Ethan Weber is in his last year on the Army Staff in the Pentagon doing Army Legislative Af-

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CLASS NOTES fairs for Army Intelligence. Ethan reports that the congressional fellowship was a great experience: “I was able to be a staffer in the personal office of Rep. Mike Rogers (R-MI), chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, and was able to see, up close, how the Army interacts with the Congress, all while attaining a master’s degree from George Washington University in D.C. Christine and I and the boys look forward to getting back to the Army (out of the Pentagon) in the fall.” Thanks to all who submitted for this Review. If you don’t get bugged by me every couple weeks for notes, please send me your e-mail address, and I will add you to the distribution list. Brandon

’02

Salmaan Khawaja

Brother Rats, I hope that this edition of the Alumni Review finds you and yours doing well. It’s been awhile since I have last written, and I encourage you all to write me and send me pictures with your updates! I have a few notes to share this time around, and the first is one that I think reflects the best of the VMI Spirit in a more dangerous world. As I’m sure you’re aware, Dic Donohue, who was working as a MBTA Police officer in Boston, was shot and severely injured during the chase of the Boston Marathon terrorist

Class of 2002: Officer Richard “Dic” Donohue posted this picture shortly before he was wounded in the line of duty during the Boston Marathon bombing. suspects. With great pleasure and sighs of relief, I can report that Dic has been recovering well thus far. On behalf of our class, I would like to thank Dic for his service and sacrifice to his community, his city and to the country. Dic’s wife, Kim, has shown incredible strength and courage through all of this, and I think we can all appreciate and learn from the inspirational strength they have shown. It’s amazing to see how our class and the entire VMI family have come together to show our support. The donation campaign quickly topped $80,000, and some of us involved in the collections are presenting the Donohues with the proceeds in Boston this June. I will post pictures of that in the next edition of the Review. The Brother

Rats of 2002 were well represented by Conor Evans, Ronnie Hull, Matthew Thompson, Jason Breeding and Brad Brickhouse, all of whom worked hard – from networking to the legal aspects of this campaign – and I thank all of them. I also want to say thank you to all the donors – hundreds of them – who reached out to Dic and his family with their support. I’m proud to be a member of one of the strongest classes at VMI. I’ve also heard/seen evidence that Dic received a visit from Kaiser Soze. Dr. Marc Yelle is wrapping up his first year as a resident at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston in the Anesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Department. Marc said that it has been an eventful first year in Boston, and he, his wife, Gray, and their 2-year-old son, Liam, are enjoying the Bahhhhston life. Gray is working for a New England cable news network. Dr. Yelle was working on the date of the Boston Marathon bombings, and it was a challenging experience to work there. He writes, “I felt honored to care for several of the severely injured patients while working in the surgical ICU.” Jackson Castleberry and his wife, Michelle, welcomed Clark Hayes Castleberry to the world on Mother’s Day 2013. Clark is their firstborn son and weighed in at a healthy 8 lb., 3 oz. Congrats, Jackson and Michelle! I know there’s much more info out there, and a lot of us keep in touch on Facebook and things, but please feel free to e-mail me your updates and photos, so they can be posted in the Review as well. In the Spirit, Salmaan

Class of 2002 Dic Donohue recuperating in the hospital with his wife and son at his bedside. Class of 2002: Marc Yelle, M.D., his wife, Gray, and their son, Liam, at a Red Sox game in Boston, spring 2013.

2013-Issue 3

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CLASS NOTES William Talley V

’03

Nicole Kramer

Brother Rats, By the time this set of notes arrives, it will be August, and hopefully everyone will have registered to attend our 10th Reunion at the end of September. A big thank you to Blake Traina who’s stepped up to be my right-hand man and handle the social side of the reunion for the class. Currently, it’s mid-May, and the buzz in advance of our reunion is continuing to build. The planning has been underway for a couple months now, and the campaign side has just kicked off! If you’ve already made a commitment by the time this set of notes hits your house, then thank you for answering the call. If you haven’t made a commitment yet, I encourage you to do so, and join in with the rest of us, so that the class of 2003 can be heard from on Sept. 27th when we present our check to Gen. Peay ’62. The size of the gift isn’t important, as every dollar is needed, and every dollar gets put to its intended use. The private financial support that the Institute receives each year is vital in carrying out the mission and enabling young men and women to attend VMI. What a spring it’s been thus far! It’s been one mixed with both sadness and joy. It began with tragic events in Boston, MA, on April 15th, resulting in the shooting of Dic Donohue ’02,

Class of 2003: Bill Talley, Andy Biesterveld and Blake Traina prepared to kill some clay pigeons near Morgantown, West Virginia, in March 2013. They gathered to celebrate Biesterveld’s pending nuptials in June. Not pictured but present was Harry Montoro ’02.

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brother of Ed Donohue. Thankfully, Dic has made a miraculous come back and is on the road to recovery. What a tremendous response came from the VMI community in the wake of that tragedy; the bond among our ranks humbles me. I ask that everyone continue to keep the Donohue family in your thoughts and prayers. The month improved, along with Dic’s recovery, with a wedding! On April 21st, Brandon Matthews married Audrey Sastri in northern Virginia. Serving as a groomsman was Bryan Wacker who is now Brandon’s brother-in-law. Audrey’s father, Class of 2003: Stuart and Lara TyMr. Jon Sastri ’75, provided a spirited toast to the ler Chambers’ son, Cole, is looking newlyweds. Also in attendance were Blake and forward to attending VMI. Jennifer Traina. The spring has also brought the joys of welcom- connected. He tells us that Jason Boatright ofing new babies to our VMI family, and another ficially made lieutenant commander on May 1st marriage occurs on June 8th, when Andy Bies- and graduates from the University of Florida with terveld marries Chelsey Grove. In late March, a master’s in engineering in July. Jason and his several of us, including Blake Traina and Harry wife gave birth to son Talon O’Neal Boatright Montoro ’02, gathered in Morgantown, WVA, to on 23 March ... just in time for Jason to execute celebrate Andy’s pending nuptials. A good time unaccompanied orders to GTMO for 18 months. was had by all, and no little children were seri- Steve Nakazawa is the godfather to Talon which, ously scarred mentally. on multiple levels, Steve thoroughly enjoys Not only have there been blessings and celebra- saying. Steve fulfilled his six-year term on The tions on the family side, but also on the profes- VMI Alumni Association Board in April and was sional side. Matt Brady’s company, New Day recognized for all of his efforts. Steve has helped Office Products and Furnishings, was awarded the to enhance the relationship the Alumni AssociaVirginia Vanguard Award by the Virginia Chamber tion has with the younger classes and has been of Commerce for being the fastest growing retail/ a wonderful representative from our class. Job wholesale company in the state. Way to go, Matt! well done, Steve! Also, Derek Brown graduated with a master’s Also serving on the Alumni Association Board degree in systems engineering from George are A.J. Schmaus and his wife Jessica (Remick Washington University in May. ’04). They were both up at the combined class I understand from Josh Gonzales that he’s still agents and chapter leaders meeting in April, with the DEA down in the Baton Rouge, LA, of- and we were able to catch up over a couple nice fice. I think he’s the special agent assigned to LSU libations. tailgates during football season. Josh has been Mihaela (Guberovic) Froehlich and family keeping in touch with Phil Hendrix who’s living will resettle in Washington state after more than in Richmond and is engaged to Chelsea Sopko. He also informed me that Matt Waite and his wife, Katie, are living up in NOVA. Finally, Josh let me know that John Tamborino got married to Meera Pal, and they live in NOVA, as well. Attending John’s wedding were Josh Gonzales, Matt Waite, Phil Hendrix, Chris Lambert, Ed Donohue and Dave Narcum. I’ve been in contact with Jason Annis, John Noonan and Paul Quinn – all are doing well. Both Paul and Jason are kept busy, Class of 2003: On April 21, 2013, Brandon Matbetween work and family. John thews married Audrey Sastri near Leesburg, Viris currently writing the SOP for a ginia. From left were the groom and bride, Andy wedding that he’ll play a leading Biesterveld, Blake Traina and Bill Talley. Not role in, sometime in the not-sopictured but participating in the ceremony was distant future. brother-in-law/groomsman Bryan Wacker and Jared Swanson continues to father of the bride Jon Sastri ’75. help keep the Band Co. folks

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES with many of you over the next few months in regard to our reunion. Please continue to send in updates and photos for our notes, as that is truly what makes them enjoyable for all to read. Until next time, RAH VA MIL ’03 ’03 ’03!

C. Justin Roberts

’04 Class of 2003: Paul Liang and son in Tu Pang’s shop.

Class of 2003: Jason Boatright and his wife welcomed a son, Talon O’Neal Boatright, on March 23, 2013.

four years in Germany. Hooah! Greg Shpunder is heading to Bagram for a nine-month tour. Doug Warner and I talk frequently. He let us know that Jim Kuhn and his wife, Holly, had a daughter on Oct. 17, 2012. Their son is now 2. Jim graduated from seminary at ORU in Tulsa, OK, in mid-December 2012. Jim’s father died on Dec. 26, 2012; he wasn’t an alumnus of VMI, but he loved and was proud of the tradition of the school. Jim will be taking a teaching position in the autumn in Tulsa. Karen Wheeler just finished up her intern year in surgery and is headed to urology soon. “Only took 11 years to get there,” she said. Yikes! Karen recently got married in Tahiti to Brian Pace, a former Marine and now a contractor for the Defense Dept. They are excited to see everyone at the reunion! Karen caught up with Alia Hamad for dinner a while ago, and she’s doing great things within the medical community, too. Alia is headed to Ohio to complete a fellowship in pediatric emergency medicine. She’s very happy to start, and Karen is very happy for her. There are only a few pediatric EM fellowships around the country, so she should be proud. Way to go, ladies! Chris Mision continues to serve in the ARNG on active Guard Reserve. He moved to San Antonio from Alexandria in December for command of a collection and exploitation company (counterintelligence and interrogation soldiers). On the full-time side, Chris is the battalion’s operations officer and acting officer-in-charge. Chris also offered this side note: “Chaz helped me move to San Antonio. On the drive from D.C. to SA, I fell asleep, and next thing I knew, I was waking up, going away from Texas and toward the Jack Daniels Distillery. It was a blast.” Jacob Agnew finished law school at Cardozo

Law in 2011 and is now back in D.C., working in aviation at a firm. He is engaged to marry Molly Spooner in Albany, NY, next April. With some help from Blake Traina and KuoRuey Liang, we heard from our BRs across the continents, too! Kai-Chiun Liou is a major in the air force and has two kids. Tu Pang opened his own shop at Elite, Taipei. Kuo-Ruey Liang has two kids, moved back to Taipei from LA and is currently an importer, working with the Taiwan government. Rollin Steele checked in and told us he is stoked to finally get out of North Carolina! He and Alexis will head to SOI West in Camp Pendleton, CA, to take over the LAV School house. West Coast better look out for them, come July! Douglas Bahrns and Jana are good and will be staying in North Carolina a little while longer. Doug should be deploying next year with 3/8 but is the “same old goof ball, as always,” according to Rollin. Clint Alanis got back from his deployment in May. As far as I know, he and Mary-Beth will be in North Carolina a little while longer, also, and everything else is good with them and their two boys. Brandon Turner has orders to be an instructor at EWS in Quantico, VA, and will PCS in June with Jessica and their daughter, Savannah. Bill Netherton managed to slip in before last call. (See a photo of Bill and his family in the “In Theater,” front section of this Alumni Review.) As a staff sergeant in the Army, he will PCS to Germany with wife Dawnann and two kids, Paige and Luke. Bill will be stationed at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center and probably won’t make the 10-year Reunion. I have encouraged them to celebrate with some good German lager and send us a photo! In closing, I look forward to being in touch

2013-Issue 3

Ryan Shealy

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the class of 2004 for this issue.

Timothy Johnson

’05

William Ray

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the class of 2005 for this issue.

’06

Clark Dudley

Class of 2006, Thanks for the continued e-mails and posts to the Facebook page. Your help and constant updates are very much appreciated. Thanks, again, and best wishes to you and your family wherever this edition of notes reaches you. I heard from David Bhatta, and VMI community has seen a great loss with the passing of his dyke, class valedictorian Wes Swank ’03, who passed away on Dec. 4, 2012. He will be missed, and surely everyone in Golf Company remembers him and his leadership. David also caught up with Mike Werner and Mike Carney back in January in the D.C./MD area. Jimmy Angerman let me know that he and his wife are still living in Naples, Italy, and traveling as much as they can. In January, they had a surprise visit from Marc Castillo. Mark is out of the Navy now, and he’s traveling the world before he starts grad school. (Think he’s going

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CLASS NOTES to be attending Georgetown.) While he was visiting the Angermans, they had dinner with Marc and Kenny Stein ’03 who are stationed in Naples, as well. Nick Saccone is at Malmstrom AFB, MT, with the 819th Red Horse Squadron. He is deploying in April-October 2013 to Qatar and then possibly to Afghanistan. When he returns from his deployment, he will be PCSing to Barksdale, LA (in Shreveport) in November 2013. At Malmstrom with Nick are three other alumni. Joe Davidoski, USMC, married Claire Morgan in New Orleans, LA, on Oct. 6, 2012. They currently make their home aboard Camp Lejeune, NC. Joe returns from his latest deployment to Afghanistan (this time with MARSOC) in late May. At the wedding with current and retired military types who formed the sword arch was BR Doug Ziegenfuss. For those of you who don’t read the Facebook page, Nick Mazzenga posted the following about Shawn Hogan’s burial services. It was held on Friday, June 7th, at Florida Hills Memorial Gardens, 14360 Springhill Drive, Spring Hill, FL 34609. It’s also important to mention that there is a memorial scholarship set up in Shawn’s honor. Please consider making a donation to the Captain Shawn G. Hogan Class of 2006 Memorial Scholarship using one of the following methods: 1) Gift online by going to www.vmialumni.org/vmigive or 2) send a check to the VMI Foundation at P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450. Be sure to enclose a note indicating that your gift is in memory of Shawn and is designated to the Captain Shawn G. Hogan Class of 2006 Memorial Scholarship. Please remember that all donations are tax deductible and will count toward our 10-year gift.

In more sad news, Steve Bart informed us that John Streetman ’05 passed away in April after a motorcycle accident in Nevada. He will be missed. More from the FB page: Chris Pridgen ran into John Plachta back in April at the Naval Academy. He was a member of the sword arch in a wedding just prior to Chris doing the exact same thing for his sister’s wedding. Both Chris and John are doing well. Wilson Nance was in Fort Bragg until mid-May. Steve Bartoszak stopped in Naples in April on his way back from Tripoli, Libya, and he saw Jimmy Eros Angerman! Looks like they planned to spend Memorial Day weekend riding around Sicily on Harleys together. We look forward to seeing a picture of that ride. Naples is a crazy city to drive in; hope it went well, guys. On Saturday, April 13th, Jon Kelton and a team of vets and friends of the military competed in the Spartan Race (NYC) in order to raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. They competed as Team Tyrant, named after the call sign of SFC Kris Domeij who was KIA on his 14th combat deployment with 2nd Ranger Battalion … a real American hero. Jessica Lynn Fulton got engaged in April, and the wedding will be in December. They plan to have the wedding in Elizabeth City, NC. Congrats to you and the husband-to-be. Tommy Collins is currently stationed at Polk, and if anyone is going to JRTC rotations over the next two years, let him know. Andrew Upshaw is currently stationed in the Korea/Japan area. If you are heading that way, give him a shout. Brian Kerrebrock just got out to “Fun-City” (aka Camp Lejeune). If you are in that area, hit him up. Chris Pridgen is currently at Cherry Point and is looking for Keydets to give him a

Class of 2006: On Sept. 1, 2012, Capt. Jordan Pagones ’06, USA, married the former Ann Marie Meek in Bowling Green, Kentucky. Brother Rats participating in the celebration were, from left, John Mundt; Staff Sgt. Josh Freeman, ANG; and Captains John Mayhew, Kyle Deem, Shawn Hogan and Dave Raser. Jordan’s father, Judge James Pagones ’72, happily looked on. Sadly, Capt. Hogan died while engaged in an Army training exercise a few weeks after this picture was taken.

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shout. Michael Rocco Pasquale posted that he is in RC-East advising the AUP and ALP; been rough at times but nothing too bad. He finished two company commands prior to this, and he let us know that Tom Bradford is flying out of BAF. Kurt Ivins is advising down in Helmand Province, Frank A. Dolberry II is commanding a company at Bragg and Chris Stone redeployed from Afghanistan recently, working with spooks. Jon Nagle is enjoying Fort Carson, becoming a company commander soon. Ben Chovanec is also at Fort Carson on a Special Forces team. Lastly but not least, Steel Nardozzi is truly the man of “Steel.” Steel Nardozzi, you are our hero, man! Get better soon. For those of you who don’t know, Steel is a cop in Florida and was bit and run over by a crazy lady who will be spending a long time in the clink. Per Steel, “ … don’t worry – the car was more banged up than me.” For more info, see the link below: http://www.abcactionnews.com//dpp/news/ region_north_pinellas/largo/largo-police-womantried-to-kill-officer-during-escape RAH VA MIL!

’07

Sally Bushore

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the class of 2007 for this issue.

Class of 2007: From left were Jonathan Ferro ’10, Coach Doug Bartlett (VMI Keydet Club and former head lacrosse coach at VMI) and Capt. Jason LaCerda ’07, USA. In May 2013, Bartlett reunited with Ferro and LaCerda – both former Lacrosse players – while LaCerda was in Lexington to celebrate his Rat, Ferro’s, graduation from W&L Law School. LaCerda is stationed in Atlanta, Georgia.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

’08

Robert Hill

Greetings to all. I hope you’ve had a good summer, and I’m looking forward to seeing everyone in less than two months for the upcoming reunion. Still hard to believe we’ve graduated from the Institute over five years ago. Artur Taryan checked in from the U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Artur is serving as the CENTCOM Counter-Narcotics Program manager. Recently he worked with the Tajikistan border guards on receiving a donation of ATVs, as well as solar, communication and tactical gear. His program consists of construction projects, equipment aids and special operations training. David No is deployed as a Seabee to the Horn of Africa with the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR. Jonathon Ostermann is on his shore tour as officer staff at the Naval Submarine School in Groton, CT. Michael Mozelle is stationed at Fort Hood as part of the 2nd BCT, 1st Cavalry. Mike reported John Cristiano is at Fort Hood, as well in a different battalion. Mike deployed to Afghanistan in June/July. Mike Vinacco returned from Bagram, Afghanistan, where he was deployed for seven months. Mike is stationed at Hill AFB in Utah. Mike was responsible for fixing air battle damage on A10s, F-16s, C-130s and HH-60s while deployed. While in Afghanistan, Mike ran into Tommy Cunningham who is flying MC-12s. (See photo of Vinacco and Cunningham in the front of this

Class of 2008: David No and other Seabees from the Naval Mobile Construction Battalion FOUR. Alumni Review, “In Theater” section.) Nohelia Martin is busy working for a Martin County public school system in Virginia. She was injured during training for the Marine Corps and was NPQed. She’s travelled with VMI’s Engineers without Borders program, headed by Tim Moore ’97, to Bolivia in 2011 and 2012, as well as Haiti in 2012. They headed back to Bolivia this past May, as well. Besides Nohelia and Tim, most of the other team members are from the classes of 2012, 2013 and 2014. Congrats to Zachary Carmen and the former Ms. Jessica Thurston. The two were married on July 14, 2012. Zach was deployed with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit with Lima Company, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines as an artillery forward observer from September 2012 to May 2013. He’s been sailing around the Gulf of Mexico onboard the U.S.S. Green Bay as part of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group and conducting security exercises in East Timor, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait

and the United Arab Emirates. Zach is currently serving with the Bravo Battery 1st Battalion, 11th Marines out of Camp Pendleton, CA. Ryan Corcoran and his wife, Amanda, welcomed their first child to the family on July 5, 2012. Claire Elizabeth Corcoran was born a month earlier than her due date on July 5, 2012. The Corcorans continue to live and work in the Richmond area. Congrats!

Class of 2008: Justus O’Connor standing on the Iwo Jima invasion beach in front of Mt. Suribachi.

Class of 2008: Pointing out recently donated equipment, Artur Taryan, second from right, spoke with Susan Elliot, U.S. Ambassador to Tajikistan, and members of the Tajikistan Border Guard.

2013-Issue 3

Kyle Adams and Peter Brookes checked in as they travelled to the Alumni Rugby Game. At the game, Brookes’ Rat, Chris Forbes ’11, proposed to his girlfriend, and she said yes! Rob Kelly was gracious enough to provide an update on a few BRs. Paul Childrey and his wife, Aly, welcomed baby Jacob to their family in early May. Stan Cheng is in Idaho, but his battalion is grounded due to the recent budget cuts. Zach West and wife Melanie are expecting their second child, while stationed at Fort Gordon, GA.

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CLASS NOTES Zach is training in his new functional be moving up to Quantico with his area before his Signal Career Course. wife, Erin, and son, Christopher, the Dan Boyd is deployed to Kandahar, first week of June. While he is there, Afghanistan. he will initially be serving as a fire Justus O’Connor checked in from support instructor and then as a staff Japan. Last spring, Justus was able platoon commander. to visit Iwo To (Iwo Jima) for a few Amanda Moore visited Chelsie weeks. Justus reports it’s exclusively Kosecki in March in NYC for a few Japanese owned, but once in a while, days. Amanda reports that things are they get a military flight authorized well for Chelsie. She is staying very to visit. Justus travelled with his busy but loving her job at Novartis. wardroom from Naval Facilities EnAmanda was also able to meet up gineering Command Far East. He’s with Rob Kelly ’08 at Fort Drum in currently stationed with the NAVFAC early May. The visit was brief, since Public Works Department, doing Rob was getting ready to deploy. Class of 2008: Peerawat Charuwat ’13, Tim Moore engineering and contracting work. She did manage to steal his dogs ’97, Nohelia Martin ’08, Caroline Wortham ’12, Andrew Stahling ’12, Donald Martin ’13 and Matthew Waalkes ’13 Lauren and I recently spend the away for safe keeping while he is in Boliva as part of the VMI Engineers Without Borders weekend in Lexington for the Class gone. Amanda also was able to speak Program. Agents Conference along with John with her Rat, Christopher Conte ’11, Sollock. John and I discussed our when he got back from deployment. upcoming reunion with other class agents for tips me notes for this issue. It is really great hearing Amanda reports looking forward to seeing many and suggestions. The rest of the reunion com- what everyone is doing across all parts of this of our classmates in June, as Christina Mowattmittee includes Tyler Anthony, Nohelia Martin crazy world. Larssen and Wayne Cunningham plan on tying Rhys Keller got married Dec. 22, 2012. He the knot. Amanda is staying busy in Lynchburg, and Eric Hunter. While in Lexington, I also got to spend some time with my dyke, Preston married Sarah Wilhelm in Virginia Beach, VA. managing at Srosto and Shoemaker’s, as well Rhys’ best man was his brother, Thane Keller ’07. as running her father’s trucking company, BEMcFaddin ’05. If you are stationed in Colorado, I would en- The wedding was well attended by VMI alumni, MCO Trucking, also out of Lynchburg. She is courage you to reach out to Matt Mitchell. He including Mike Fager ’07, Mike Greenwood ’83 also fostering dogs for the Campbell County was recently stationed at Fort Carson in Colorado and Jeff Minnix ’79. Rhys is currently working Humane Society. Springs after completing his Captains Career as a transportation engineer for URS Corporation, Stefan Mello and his wife, Nicole, had a baby and his wife, Sarah, is an ancillary technician at daughter, Aria Frances Mello. She was born Course in Fort Benning, GA. I look forward to seeing all of you in September Tidewater Eye Center. Aug. 14, 2012, at 8 lbs., 10 oz., and was 21 Some other exciting news is that Michelle inches long. Luckily, Stefan was able to come 2013. God bless, and Rah Virginia Mil. Lukenbill got engaged. Michelle and her fiancé, home for his R&R from Afghanistan to be there Nathanial, are planning a September 2013 wed- for her birth. He’ll be back from his year-long Bradley Simpson ding. Michelle’s roommate, Chelsie Kosecki, deployment soon. will be her maid of honor, and her Rat, Samantha I had a chance to catch up with Andrew Rice. Jones ’12, will be a bridesmaid. Both Michelle He told me that Nate Warner has graduated from and Nathanial are active duty Air Force and are VCU (or MCV, as it is better known) medical looking forward to relocating to Florida this school and is now a full M.D. Andrew is now summer. Brother Rats: working for the Virginia Beach Commonwealth Michael Harvey is scheduled to pin on captain Attorney’s Office, after passing the Virginia State I hope this edition this of the Review finds you and your families well. It has been a good couple July 1st. He was also selected to be an instructor Bar this summer. months catching up with everyone who has sent at The Basic School at Quantico. Michael will Brian Steel is getting married this upcoming

’09

Class of 2009: Rhys Keller and his wife, Sarah Wilhelm. Thane Keller ’07 was the best man.

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Class of 2009: Michelle Lukenbill and her fiancé, Nathanial, with their two dogs, Sephora and Turkelton.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Editor’s Note: See the “In Theater” section in the front of this Alumni Review for photos of Captains Christopher Sterbenz and Daniel Johnson in Afghanistan.

’10 Class of 2009: Michael Harvey and son Christopher attended the VMICitadel football game in November 2012.

Class of 2009: Stefan Mello and wife Nicole with their newborn daughter, Aria Frances Mello. November. He is currently stationed with the Army in North Korea. Graham Stolle and Barrett Luxhoj have graduated from Regent University Law School and are studying for the Virginia State Bar. Rice also tells me that John Phelps is hitting bombs for the Virginia Beach Sherriff’s Office softball team. Rice played them and says they are super good. There is some exciting news from Corie and Isaac Putnam. Corie gave birth to a baby girl, Kaelan Marie Putnam, who was born May 7, 2013. Well, it looks like it has been a very busy last couple months for all of us. It has been great catching up with everyone the last little bit. I wish everyone the best moving forward, and as always, stay classy, 2009.

2013-Issue 3

Matthew Allen

I’d like to kick off this class notes edition with well-deserved congratulations to our Rats, the class of 2013, on successfully completing the VMI journey. I know a lot of our BRs were able to make it back to the “I” to celebrate with and, in some instances, commission their Rats. It’s hard to believe that it has been three years since our graduation in Cameron Hall and even harder to believe that our Rats have now graduated. A job well done to our BRs for molding, mentoring and guiding our Rats into a great class and cementing our legacy for years to come. Congratulations, again, to the VMI class of 2013; you can be whatever you resolve to be. VMI homecoming front: Lee Hafkemeyer was one of several of our BRs who was able to make it back to the “I.” Lee was able to commission his Rat, Eddie Chang ’13, into the U.S. Army as a second lieutenant. Lee currently resides in Fort Campbell, KY, with his wife, Devina, and son, Aiden. Tanner Sewell also was able to make it back to the “I” to see his Rat, Corbit Kellam ’13, graduate. Tanner is living in Washington, D.C., and is teaching at George Mason University, where he recently completed his graduate degree in ethics and public affairs. Dogucan Mazicioglu also attended the graduation festivities where he saw his Rat, Nathan Meade ’13, commissioned in the U.S. Air Force. Dogucan is currently residing in Richmond, VA, where he is finishing his Ph.D. studies in applied statistics. Dogucan has already completed his master’s degree in applied statistics and is teaching at VCU, as well as working on various consulting projects. Jacob Robertson was also able to return to the “I” and commission his Rat, Hunter Cox ’13, as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Jacob is recently engaged and is still in the U.S. Army. On the graduation front: Several BRs graduated in May with post-graduate degrees. Daniel Welsh and Jon Ferro both graduated from the Washington & Lee Law School. Elizabeth Casey Dobbins graduated from the University of Virginia Law School, and Chris Dolbey graduated from the University of Richmond School of Law. Brandon Stratz recently completed his MBA and also created a Class of 2010 LinkedIn Group. Please go check it out and join. On the military front: Cody Hennelly reached out and informed me that he was stationed at

Fort Sill, OK, and at the time of this writing, he will be deployed for nine months to either Iraq or Afghanistan. Cody is now commissioned as an artillery officer in the U.S. Army. Dave Padgett recently returned from Exercise Cobra Gold in the Kingdom of Thailand and is stationed in Okinawa, Japan, with the USMC. T. Nelson Page, Owen Trotman and Donte Brown are all at Camp Leatherneck, Kandahar Province, with several other BRs with the USMC in Afghanistan. Levi Swindell completed his training with the U.S. Army and is now an MP. Kenny Green and Ray Starsman are both stationed at Fort Wainwright in Alaska with the U.S. Army. David Bice wrote in and informed me that he is still working for Areva in Lynchburg and that his son (2.5 years old) and family are all doing great. I am also happy to report that David has been accepted into NC State’s mechanical engineering graduate program. Tanner Biagini was recently engaged and is set to be married on Oct. 19, 2013. Tanner is an assistant baseball coach at the University of Richmond. Ried Stelly is living in Beijing, China, where he is teaching at a primary school. Ried has been fortunate to run across other alumni during his trip in China.

’11

Allen McCown

Class Notes: New Market Day 2013 In the fall when you are reading this, we will become grand dykes – our Rats will have Rats. Our legacy will have been passed down beyond our presence, and hopefully, Barracks will remain in one piece in 2014. I know I will be there for their graduation. I even got a note from Lane Pratt expressing the same intention. Lane is in Afghanistan, deployed with the 10th Mountain Division. He should be returning home to Fort Drum, NY, before Thanksgiving and is looking forward to seeing his wife, Molly, and husky. It has been a very busy spring for the class – many deployments, job changes and moves. I got a great note from David Gerardo, letting me know he is deployed in Afghanistan. He arrived May 10th, and promptly ran into two other Keydets, Daniel Johnson ’09 and Tim Johnson ’12. David went on to say that there are few things better than running into a VMI grad downrange. He continued, however, to say that he has found some small things overseas that VMI did not have, including: his own room, air conditioning and no daily formations, and the food at FOB Shank is pretty good and is open 24/7. David did blame some of it on his “pilot lifestyle.” Despite the

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 2011: Tom Hamlin and his wife, Jaclyn. small things, he did express that hitting the deck to avoid indirect fire, short showers and not being able to take weekends are not the greatest. David and his fiancée are to be married next summer. Robert Jones is preparing to deploy on July 3rd and is excited to visit Virginia before he departs. Safe travels, Rob! I’m glad to report we also had some BRs return from deployments recently. James Clayton just returned from an eight-month western Pacific deployment. James got to see eight different countries and will be pinning on lieutenant junior grade later this month [May]. Congratulations, James, and any other Navy guys who will soon be promoted. On April 20th, Tom Hamlin married the former Jaclyn Michelle Dickman at the Evergreen Country Club in Haymarket, VA. I was in attendance and had a great time catching up with Dylan Knehr who just returned from deployment. Dylan is very happy to be home and spending time with his fiancée and dog. Bryan McDonald was also in attendance. He is living in North Carolina and will be headed to Japan for a few months later this year with the Marines. Josh Kinder is living in Arlington and is very much enjoying his walk to work and not dealing with northern Virginia traffic during rush hour. Aaron Cregar also flew in from Texas for the wedding. He is enjoying Army life and has started golfing regularly with his girlfriend, Julia. Josh Applewhite also drove up for the wedding. It was great seeing everyone. The previous weekend, some of us went to a Nationals game in D.C. and, post-game, ran into Sam Kang at a restaurant in Annandale. Sam is working as an engineer in northern Virginia and seems to be enjoying life up there. I recently talked to Burt Bacheller who also just moved to a new place in northern Virginia. He’s enjoying his new place and made sure to

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mention he hung up an American flag before even owning a bed. I’m just glad to hear he has his priorities in order. I recently talked to my roommates, Tom Louderback and Alex Crow. Tom has taken a sabbatical from his running career and is pursuing his other passion, cars. As I’m sure some BRs remember, Tom has always enjoyed spinning wheels, regardless of the vehicle. Tom is currently working for Nissan. Alex just returned from Japan for a Navy school in Newport, RI. He is finishing up his SWO qualifications in Japan, as well. While stateside, Alex plans to make a trip down to Lexington to visit some of our Rats during their summer session. Ryan Buell is also pursuing his passion, working in the firearm industry. He works as a gun dealer and also teaches gun courses. I am pleased to report that William Brett and Andrea Waldrop will be parents in the next few days. Andrea is having a little girl, and her name will be Rebecca Claire Waldrop. Congratulations to them! Richard Crozier is working for Norfolk Southern and is a territory manager in Savannah, GA. Not a bad place to live. I’m glad you’re enjoying it, Richard! Jamie Bost recently graduated from undergraduate pilot training and got his wings May 17th. After a number of advanced military schools, Jamie will head to C-130 school at Little Rock Air Force Base. After Little Rock, Jamie will head to Colorado Springs to fly C-130Hs. Congratulations and best of luck! At the VMI Alumni Rugby Game this past year, there was a great showing from 2011. Travis Daniel, Rob Cole, Burt Bacheller and Chris Forbes all played. Chris chose that occasion to propose to his then-girlfriend, right on the rugby pitch. Talk about a true rugger. Congratulations to Chris and his fiancée! Caleb Gibson was there the same weekend and was glad to see some BRs. Caleb is doing great working for the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory and got to travel some this year for work. He said he really enjoyed visiting Las Vegas and saw Adam Woloshuk who now lives there. The two caused trouble on the strip, I’m sure. Caleb is working on his master’s in physics and said that and work keep him pretty busy. There have been a number of other engagements in the class in recent months. Dave Stecher and Heather Schmidt are now engaged and planning a fall 2014 wedding. Heather is planning on going to pharmacy school at VCU, and they are both looking forward to moving back to Richmond. Josh Jeffcoat is now engaged to Kara Leigh Simmons. They are planning a June wedding. Casey Ward sent me a nice note after attending Garret Evans’ wedding this past May. Casey reported that Travis Bowman is in graduate school

for education at ODU. This past semester, Travis got straight A’s – a first for him. Keep up the good work, Travis! Casey also saw Patrick Crandall, who reported he is still “living the dream.” Patrick does miss the Mother I and said he longs to hear Sgt. Maj. Neel say “sports fan” one more time. Patrick was recently admitted to the Notre Dame Law School and is glad to be done with applications. Tom Carnes is currently finishing up his master’s in engineering at VCU. Chris Fukui is stationed in New Mexico and is doing great. Garret and his wife are living in Montana. However, they are anxious to head back to Richmond, once Garrett’s Air Force career is over. I got an e-mail from Josh Splinter who is in Afghanistan. He said there were numerous other Keydets in the area, including Louis Papet, Jared Claus and Mario Scott. He was glad to say that Jack Folger and Chris Conte returned home. Stay safe, guys! David Perry sent me an e-mail earlier this spring to announce that he will be marrying Jessica Snead ’13 in March 2014. The two are living in Richmond, and David just got a promotion to Brand Development leader for two brands at VAMAC. David’s roommate, Isaac Cryder, is now married to Jayne Cryder. Isaac is stationed in Alaska. David also let me know that Andrew Jeter is engaged and stationed in Japan and that Ricky Powell recently enlisted in the Navy. I talked to Andrew Tunnell last week, and he was pleased to let me know that he is on his way to becoming a Virginia State Police officer. He is doing field training prior to reporting to the police academy later this year. As we talked, Andrew let me know that he was shining and polishing his shoes and ironing his uniform – some things never end. He said that Bryan Mayberry will be graduating Army Basic Training soon and has enlisted to become a medic. There is also another medic in our class now – Steve Sargent recently completed his training as an Army medic for the Georgia National Guard. Steve and his wife, Kelly, moved to Georgia to begin their married life together. Congratulations, you two! Cam Hagan sent me an update and let me know that he is coming up on his one-year wedding anniversary; time flies, doesn’t it? Cam and his wife just closed on their first house, and Cam accepted a position with xTuple as a sales associate. Congratulations on everything to the Hagans! Matt Talbott finished his post-baccalaureate at VCU this spring and was able to see Dane Addison and Roland Richardson at the VMI lacrosse game this spring in Maryland. Roland walked with ’13 and has graduated from the Institute. Congratulations to Roland and Greg Gibbons for graduating. When you walk, you win – regardless of when that happens. Chad Lawson dropped me a note and said that all things are good in Richmond. He is working

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES as a financial controller and assistant project manager for an electrical contractor. Chad and his girlfriend just closed on a house, and after a little bit of work, they will be moving in this summer. He was also asked to become the newest director of the VMI Club of Richmond. I highly encourage anyone in the Richmond area to hit up Chad and become involved with the club. I know he will do a great job coordinating events and keeping people in contact. Trent Gordon is stationed at Fort Bragg as the platoon leader for C Troop and is flying Kiowa Warriors with the 1-17 Cavalry. Trent just bought his first house and welcomes any transitioning BRs for a beer and place to crash. Trent’s littler brother, Travis Gordon ’16, was selected as the historian for his class. Last week, I saw Sharif Gray and Luke Leichty for some beers in Charlottesville. They had just finished finals for their second year of law school. Both of them are spending the summer in Philadelphia working. Sharif is a prosecutor for the city of Philadelphia. As for myself, I am attempting to help with wedding planning, sometimes making Rebecca’s job that much harder. In February, I accepted a position with the Target Corporation as a logistics executive. Rebecca and I are moving to Charlottesville in June. I look forward to seeing everyone at the September UVA vs. VMI game in Charlottesville. I am grateful for all the notes I received for this issue. Filling pages is only possible with material from the class. I hope everyone is staying in touch, and I hope to see everyone soon. Also, I would like to clarify that Tom Pace did not end up adopting a kitten. Stay in touch, stay safe. I’m going to end these notes with an excerpt from David Gerardo’s e-mail: “To all our BRs overseas, I hope your living conditions are as good or better than mine. “To all our BRs back in the states, take long hot showers for me, and enjoy living all that life has to offer. “Fly to Glory, and Rah Virginia Mil.”

’12

that test the integrated circuits. Good luck in New York, Brennan. Brad Parker is married and living in Mobile, AL. He has taken a commission in the Coast Guard and is enjoying life with his new wife, Laurel Parker. Josh Visconti was married on March 9th and is working out of a new Edward Jones office in Short Pump. Josh is also expecting his second child in November.

Bruce Howard

BRs, I hope everyone is doing well, and I would like to thank all of you for the updates. Here’s what’s going on with our class. Brennan Buell is working for Tokyo Electron in New York. His company does contract work for GLOBALFOUNDRIES, which makes semiconductors found in technology such as computers, phones and tablets. Brennan works on the robots

2013-Issue 3

Class of 2012: Samantha Price and fiancé Zachary Henke ’11.

Carrie Wortham is returning back to the U.S. after spending a year in Haiti. She will continue working with Midwives for Haiti in Virginia and comes home this summer. Welcome back, Carrie. Stewart Wilkinson was married this summer on June 1st. Both Stewart and Andrew Deal are working at VMI for the Foundation and Keydet Club, respectively. Make sure to stop in and see them if you’re passing through Lexington. Chance McConnell is in the Army and currently stationed at Fort Hood. Tim Graziano has been stationed at Fort Campbell but was deployed to Afghanistan in April. We wish Tim a safe deployment and return back to the U.S. Mike Gwinn is also stationed at Fort Campbell, while Terrell Lynch is working for a VMI alumnus in North Carolina. Samantha Price is stationed at Fort Drum in New York. She is a medical officer for the 2nd Battalion, 15th Field Artillery Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division. She was recently engaged to Zachary Henke ’11. They will be getting married in October back at VMI. Congratulations, Samantha. Tim Gregory is also engaged and working on plans for the wedding. Congratulations, Tim. Also, Rob Bailey moved back down to Atlanta, where he is working for a construction company. Well, that’s the latest notes for this edition. Thanks, again, for all the updates, and stay in touch. I don’t want to leave anyone out, so call or send me an e-mail with any new information. Until next time, I wish you all the best.

Class of 2012: At the wedding of Brad Parker and his wife, Laurel, were Chance McConnell, Robbie White, Fred DeRose, Zack Boyce, Stewart Hargrove, Colin Antonucci, Matt Brock, Mac Wellford, Paul Lingamfelter, Rand Irby, Gabe Dongieux and Robert Rice.

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CLASS NOTES

’13

MARRIAGES

BIRTHS

Charles P. Jones

Congratulations, 2013! As I am writing this, we have just graduated, and just about everyone is headed off to bigger and better things. Some of us are reporting to our first duty station, some to graduate school and many are working somewhere out there in the “real world.” A few of our BRs will graduate in December and some in May. I’ll be sure to include any information on their graduation ceremonies in the upcoming editions of the Alumni Review. In the meantime, if you haven’t done so already, look for the “VMI Class of 2013” page on Facebook, join the group on LinkedIn and/or follow “@vmi2013” on Twitter to stay connected with the class. This section of the Alumni Review is typically used as an opportunity for members of our class to fill in each other on what’s new in our lives. As one of the class agents, I have the responsibility of preparing the class notes to be published here. If you have anything that you would like to be included, feel free to e-mail me: jonescp@mail. vmi.edu, or go to the VMI Ranks page at www. vmialumni.org and post your updates there. There is also a VMI Alumni Association Mobile App worth downloading if you have a smartphone. Good luck, everybody, and if you have any questions or concerns about our class notes or would like to have something included, please feel free to contact me. Our other class agents will be managing the following areas: Greg Olson – social media/class website; Sean Rogers – networking/maintaining class records; and John Wilson – event planning. Don’t hesitate to contact any one of us.

STRAUB – A daughter, Nora Kathryn, to Stephanie and Nathan R. Straub ’96 on Aug. 30, 2012. HEELY – A daughter, Hattie Eliza, to Johanna and Robert A. Heely Jr. ’98 on May 3, 2013. MUNDY – A son, Watson Adams II, to Stinson and Gardner A. Mundy II ’98 on June 21, 2012. ENGELHARD – A son, Lucas Oliver, to Jennifer and Derek C. Engelhard ’00 on Feb. 6, 2013. BERK – A son, Ewan Gregory, to Chanda and Joshua A. Berk ’01 on March 27, 2013. CASTLEBERRY – A son, Clark Hayes, to Michelle and Jackson S. Castleberry ’02 on May 12, 2013. UNDERWOOD – A son, Grant Carter, to Paige and Brenton L. Underwood ’06 on March 10, 2013. CORCORAN – A daughter, Claire Elizabeth, to Amanda and Ryan W.P. Corcoran ’08 on July 5, 2012. PUTNAM – A daughter, Kaelan Marie, to Corielle W. Parsons ’09 and Isaac B. Putnam ’09 on May 7, 2013.

GREENE –Linda Gail Payne Sams to Charles D. Greene ’90, on June 29, 2013. CARMEN – Jessica Thurston to Zachary C. Carmen ’08 on July 14, 2012. KELLER – Sarah Wilhelm to Rhys A. Keller ’09 on Dec. 22, 2012.

DEGREES Raymond P. Lawson ’81 Nuclear Engineering University of South Carolina Columbia, SC May 2013

M.N.E.

Stephen V. Tennant ’81 Implementation of Public Policy University of Kansas Lawrence, KS April 2013

M.P.A.

Gerard P. Tertychny ’87 Ed.D. Higher Education Administration The George Washington University Washington, D.C. January 2013 Hope E. Hackemeyer ’11 M.A.Ed. Counselor Education Virginia Polytechnic and State University Blacksburg, VA May 2012

VMI’s 25 Most Senior Alumni According to the records of The VMI Alumni Association, the men listed below constitute the 25 senior alumni of the Institute. Please contact the Alumni Review staff if any errors are noted. William E. Cantrell ’26 Richard D. Schmitz ’31 Ernest C. Johnson ’29 Thomas M. Zeledon ’30 Howard J. Bell ’33 William R. Landrum ’34 James Heine ’34 E. Lane Whitley ’34 Emmett J. Heerdt ’34 Richard H. McCormick ’34 James E. Kirk ’36 Edwin T. Arnold ’35 James C. Sherman ’35

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Oct. 17, 1905 Feb. 24, 1908 May 19, 1908 Dec. 21, 1908 Nov. 25, 1910 Dec. 3, 1910 Mar. 18, 1911 April 1, 1911 Feb. 27, 1912 Dec. 4, 1912 Oct. 25, 1913 Feb. 7, 1914 March 31, 1914

Gardner F. Goodwyn ’36 Randolph Tucker Jr. ’37 John A. Gialanella ’36 John H. Divine III ’36 Harry F. Byrd Jr. ’35 Joseph H. Keller ’36 W. Barton Baldwin ’37 Robert N. Mathews ’38 Henry B. Johnson ’38 Floyd S. Smith ’41 Raymond W. Parks ’37 James M. Witt ’39

April 27, 1914 June 29, 1914 Aug. 28, 1914 Nov. 13, 1914 Dec. 20, 1914 Feb. 5, 1915 July 26, 1915 Feb. 26, 1916 Aug. 9, 1916 Sept. 7, 1916 Oct. 6, 1916 Dec. 23, 1916

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

PROVISIONAL APPOINTMENTS APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

Harley P. Jennings ’04

Uncle

Maximilian Toch ’67 Maximilion Toch ’67 Maximilion Toch ’67

Father Father Father

2018 Charles Marshall Toch Leo Jackson Toch Maria Constance Toch

2019 Coleman L. Callaway William R. Jones

Charles T. Callaway Jr. ’79 Father Jeffrey M. Jones ’95 Uncle

Stephen M. Hupp ’84

Father

H. Lee Clark ’93 Thomas B. Craig ’00 Andrew J. Tate ’92 Samuel L. Tate ’88

Father Uncle Uncle Uncle

Edgar L. Brown ’53 Timothy S. Melvin ’84 Edgar L. Brown ’53

Grandfather Uncle Grandfather

2021 Savannah Faith Clark

2022 Davis Siegert Brown Joshua Melvin Elizabeth Hanbury Wimbish

Lucas Orlin Bennett Evan Asher Michael Grueterich Celia Kathryn Haire Ethan Michael Westra

Brandon J. Bennett ’02 Michael J. Myers ’77 Dennis N. Witt Jr. ’69 Brandon J. Bennett ’02

Father Grandfather Grandfather Uncle

Joshua A. Berk ’01 Kenneth H. Cobb ’89 J. Andrew Hardin ’04 Matthew H. Sanders ’04

Father Father Father Godfather

Timothy S. Melvin ’84 James D. Gearhart ’71 G. William Gearhart Jr. ’70 C. Jesse Gearhart ’77 Gregory A. Gearhart ’78 Addison T. Palanza ’07 Jason L. Smith ’99 L. Neil Steverson ’70 Brenton L. Underwood ’06

Uncle Grandfather Great-uncle Cousin Cousin Father Father Grandfather Father

2035 Ewan Gregory Berk Henry Thornton Cobb Alexander Jameson Hardin

Caleb Melvin Solomon Joseph Moore Griffin Michael Palanza Karston Marshall Smith Jack Thomas Steverson Grant Carter Underwood

“Put the Boys In…

and may God forgive me for the order.”

2023 Christine Y-Nhi Nguyen

RELATIONSHIP

2035

2020 Thomas Bradney Hupp

ALUMNUS-CLASS

2034

2017 Isaac Hunter Mayfield

APPOINTEE’S NAME

General John C. Breckinridge New Market, May 15, 1864

Khanh V. Nguyen ’94

Father

Edgar L. Brown ’53

Grandfather

Francis E. Kennedy Jr. ’63 Eric J. Mattocks ’95 Khanh V. Nguyen ’94

Grandfather Father Father

Edgar L. Brown ’53

Grandfather

2024 Sarah Marshall Wimbish

2025 Gabrielle Kennedy Caleb J. Mattocks Chelsea Yen-Nhu Nguyen

2026 John Turner Wimbish

“Put the Boys In”

2028 Carter James Barnes Kevin J. Barnes ’93 Francis Edward Kennedy, IV Francis E. Kennedy Jr. ’63

Father Grandfather

2031 Preston Scott Lea William J. Matkins Jr. Andrew Walsh Stills

Peter M. Meredith Jr. ’74 William J. Matkins ’03 Harold A. Stills Jr. ’92

Grandfather Father Father

by Don Troiani On a drizzly May 15th in 1864, a small Confederate force risked being overwhelmed by a larger Federal unit commanded by Franz Sigel near New Market, Virginia, in the Shenandoah. Suffering the combined effects of Union muskets and artillery canister rounds, the center of the Confederate line evaporated. Confederate Gen. John C. Breckinridge quickly realized his options: repair the gap in the line or fall back. With the young cadets from VMI as his only reserve, he hesitated, but then commanded, “Put the boys in,” he stated, “and may God forgive me for the order.” The young cadets advanced, cheering loudly, with many losing their shoes in the muddy field. The cadets engaged the Federals of Von Klieser’s Battery who attempted to defend their position. Moments later, Cadet Oliver Evans jumped up on a captured cannon, madly waving the VMI flag as the cadets cheered wildly, having helped rout the Union force. Afterward, Gen. Breckinridge rode up to the young men stating, “Well done, Virginians. Well done, men.” Don Troiani, one the finest military artists of this century, has created a beautiful and arguably the most historically accurate portrayal of the VMI cadets at the Battle of New Market in his latest work, “Put the Boys In.” The original oil is an 80”x 50” masterpiece which hangs in Moody Hall. Print Size: 19 x 29 inches. Including white border, the size is 23-1/2 x 32 inches.

The Cross of Honor

Order Your Copy of Troiani’s “Put the Boys In” Today!

2033 Brendan Michael Frisbie Marianne Cook Hertel Brandon Lee Johnson

Robert P. Frisbie ’75 Dennis N. Witt Jr. ’69 Christopher W. Mision ’03

Grandfather Grandfather Uncle

To Order: Call the VMI Alumni Association at 800/444-1839 or send check to Lisla Danas, VMI Alumni Association, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450. Make checks payable to: VMI Alumni Association UNFRAMED PRINT: $250 + $20 Shipping & Handling = $270.00 (VA & CT residents add $16.20) = $286.20 FRAMED PRINT: $545 + $100 Shipping & Handling = $645.00 (VA & CT residents add $38.70) = $683.70

2013-Issue 3

“CROSS of HONOR” VMI SPECIAL EDITIONS: There are only 400 “VMI Special Edition” prints of the total 950 produced. These prints, uniquely, have the “Cross of Honor” (shown above). In 1904, The VMI Alumni Association presented to each member of the New Market Corps or his descendant a bronze “Cross of Honor.” Description: Suspended from a bar bearing the words “For Valor,” is a cross which appears around the seal of the state of Virginia, “VMI Cadet Battalion, New Market, May 15, 1864.” On the reverse is engraved the name of the battle veteran. Please Note: Print numbers may vary from 1 to 950.

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TAPS TAPS J. Franklin Forsyth III ’37 Class Agent

John Franklin Forsyth III ’37 of Greenwood Village, Colorado, died on Jan. 14, 2013. He was 97. Forsyth matriculated from Front Royal, Virginia, and attended VMI for one year. He served his class and the Institute as class agent, with the assistance of his son, retired Lt. Col. John Forsyth IV ’67, who continues to fill the class agent role in his father’s place. In addition to his son and his son’s wife, Leslie, Forsyth is survived by his daughters, Susan Parsley (Randy Williams) and Bea Oettinger (Melvin); five grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren. Forsyth was preceded in death by his wife, Catherine “Kitty” Arnest Forsyth.

Raymond V. Long ’38

Raymond Victor Long ’38 of Islamorada, Florida, and Stuart, Florida, died on March 23, 2013. He was 95. Long matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. Long is survived by his wife, Sally Long; her children, Julie Lentine (Lou) and Fred Miles (Jane); three children by his first wife, Carter Long Hannah (George), Raymond Douglas Long (Linda) and Lucy Long Ivey (Kean); grandchildren, Mark Hannah (Amy), Raymond Daniel Hannah (Katie), Putnam Ivey, Kean Ivy, Christin Long Healey (Adam), Shannon Long and Ray Paulett Long; great-grandchildren, Ryan Hannah, Kailyn Hannah and Lucas Hannah; sister, Paulett L. Taggart; and sister-in-law, Lucy Call Dabney. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Call Long.

John Pasco Jr. ’39

John Pasco Jr. ’39 of Richmond, Virginia, died on Feb. 20, 2013. He was 94. Pasco matriculated from Raleigh, North Carolina, and earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his sons, John Pasco III ’67 (Mary), James Gilbert Pasco ’71 (Sherri) and Barton Cheves Pasco ’77 (Bettie); daughPasco ’39 162

ter, Katherine Merrill Pasco; grandchildren, William Watkins Pasco, Virginia Courtney Pasco Miles, James Denham Pasco, Barton Cheves Pasco Jr., Mary Elizabeth Gilbert Pasco and Samuel Tanner Pasco. Pasco was preceded in death by his wife, Nell G. Pasco; father, John Pasco Sr. ’900, who died on May 5, 1961; and brother, H. Merrill Pasco ’37, who died on Nov. 28, 2008.

Delbert K. Santee Jr. ’39

Delbert Kay Santee Jr. ’39 of Satellite Beach, Florida, died on July 8, 2012. He was 95. Santee matriculated from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his sons, Delbert Santee III and Walter Santee; daughters, Karen Santee Graham and Holly Santee; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. Santee was predeceased by his wife, Joyce Egolf Santee.

W. Frazier Baldwin Jr. ’40

William Frazier Baldwin Jr. ’40 of Greenville, Delaware, and formerly of Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, died on March 21, 2013. He was 95. Baldwin matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Virginia Speer Baldwin; sons, William F. Baldwin III (Carol) and C. Louis Baldwin ’72 (Elaine); daughter, Susan; grandsons, Christopher and Colin; and sister, Anne B. Shore. Baldwin was preceded in death by his father, William F. Baldwin Sr. ’913, who died on Dec. 26, 1983, and uncle, Louis C. Barley ’920, who died on Sept. 9, 1974.

Francis B. Williams Jr. ’43

Francis Brown Williams ’43 of Meridian, Georgia, died on April 23, 2013. He was 89. Williams matriculated from Meridian and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his daughter, Margaret W. Gore (Thomas); son, Francis B. Williams III (Martha); stepdaughters, Catherine H. Mabry (Randy) and Karen H. Fey (Dale); 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by two wives, Margaret Hopkins Williams and Myrtle Miller Hutson, and son Willis Hopkins Williams.

James P. Chambers ’44

James Pierce Chambers ’44 of Great Falls, Virginia, died on March 10, 2013. He was 90. Chambers matriculated from Arvonia, Virginia, and attended VMI for three years. He completed his studies at Harvard and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is survived by his sons, Jim (Fiona) and Tom (Patty); grandchildren, Dustin (Alicia), Brett and Gregg; great-granddaughter, Shaw Pierce Chambers; and longtime companion, Dot Cummings. Chambers was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Hunter Chambers, and his second wife, Marion Chambers.

Richard A. Meade ’44

Richard Alva Meade ’44 of Scottsdale, Arizona, died on Feb. 24, 2013. He was 90. Meade matriculated from Scarsdale, New York, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Frances Unger Meade; daughters, Susan Sindelar (Scott) and Patricia Robbins (Jonathan); granddaughter, Hallory Sindelar; and sister, Janet MacCallum.

Jack H. Montague ’44

Retired Col. Jack Harrison Montague ’44, USA, of Tampa, Florida, died on March 20, 2013. He was 90. Montague matriculated from Independence, Missouri, and attended VMI for three years. He earned a bachelor of science degree from West Point and a master’s degree in education from the College of William and Mary. He is survived by his wife, Eleanor Massie Montague; daughter, Barbara Montague Gil; sons, John H. and David M. Montague; grandchildren, Christopher Gil, Julie Gil Smith, Tiffany Montague Simmons, Spencer Montague, Clayton Montague, and Kayla and KayDee Webb; great-grandchildren, William and Grace Simmons, Skyler and Peyton Smith, and Savannah and Jason James; and brother, William Zinn.

John O. Coppedge ’45

Retired Capt. John Oliver Coppedge ’45, USN, of Annapolis, Maryland, died on Dec. 26, 2012. He was 88. Coppedge matriculated from Osceola, Arkansas, and attended VMI for two years. He earned a bachelor of science degree VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

TAPS from the U.S. Naval Academy and held a master’s degree from George Washington University. Coppedge is survived by his son, John O. Coppedge Jr. (Judy); daughter-in-law, Jeanne Coppedge; granddaughters, Erin Hoganson and Kelly Coppedge; and great-grandchildren, Connor and Shelby Hoganson. He was preceded in death by his wife, Ann Driscoll Coppedge, and son, William S. Coppedge.

Robert H. Gammon ’45

Robert Harold Gammon ’45 of Charlottesville, Virginia, died on April 11, 2013. He was 89. Gammon matriculated from Rural Retreat, Virginia, and attended VMI less than one year. He earned a bachelor of arts degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his children, Caroline Gammon MacDonald (Jerry) and R. Christopher Gammon (Ruth); grandchildren, Catherine Constance and Colin MacDonald and Anne Sydnor and Elizabeth Louise Gammon; and sister, Mary Helen Gammon Jessup. He was preceded in death by his wife, Charlotte Hale Gammon.

Morgan R. Redwine Jr. ’45

Morgan Roby Redwine Jr. ’45 of Athens, Georgia, died on Feb. 5, 2013. He was 89. Redwine matriculated from Athens and attended VMI for one year and six months. He earned a bachelor of arts degree from Yale University. He is survived by his wife, Karen Whelchel Redwine; son, Roby Long Redwine (Dana); daughter, Virginia Redwine Hurst (Charles); and grandchildren, Elizabeth Long Redwine, Roby West Redwine, Frances Grace Redwine, Mary Bonner Redwine, Charles Redwine Hurst and Henry Somerville Hurst. He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Juliette Bonner Redwine; sister, Marion Rylander Mathis Allen; and brother, Henry Edward Mathis.

George P. Ritchie Jr. ’49B

George Patterson Ritchie Jr. ’49B of Concord, North Carolina, died on Jan. 23, 2013. He was 84. Ritchie matriculated from Concord and attended VMI for one year. He earned a bachelor of science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy. 2013-Issue 3

He is survived by his daughters, Nancy Efird Ritchie and Lillian Ritchie Shirley; son, George Patterson Ritchie III; grandchildren, Amanda Shirley Chavis (Jerimy), Hoke Shirley, Laura Caitlin Ritchie, MaryWren Ritchie and Diana Godley Ritchie; and great-granddaughter, Anabelle Leigh Chavis.

Leo E. Soucek ’49B

Retired Brig. Gen. Leo Eugene Soucek ’49B, USA, of Potomac, Maryland, died on April 2, 2013. He was 84. A Distinguished Graduate of VMI, Soucek matriculated from Disputanta, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from the Institute. He is survived by his wife, Evelyn Fishfader Soucek; daughter, Leanne; sons, Leo Jr. and Steven M. Soucek; grandchildren, Jasmine, Lucy, Emma, Joshua, Sarah and Adeline Soucek; sister, Evelyn Lipp; and brothers, Frank and Edward Soucek.

Roy L. Beckelhymer Jr. ’50B

Roy Leonard Beckelhymer Jr. ’50B of Austin, Texas, died on Feb. 21, 2013. He was 85. Beckelhymer matriculated from Houston, Texas, and attended VMI for one year. He continued his education at the University of Texas. He is survived by his wife, Edna Hall Beckelhymer; sons, Roy and Britt, and their wives; and grandchildren, Emily, Andrew, Eric, Erica and Alison. His daughter, Nancy, preceded him in death.

Edward B. Burwell ’50B

Edward Bouldin Burwell ’50B of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died on Feb. 13, 2013. He was 85. Burwell matriculated from Covington, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by Burwell ’50B his wife, Betty Miller Burwell; stepdaughters, Wynne Cottrell (Jim) and Lori Augustoni (Michael); stepson, Cary Bradley (Marilyn); sisters, Eleanor Hodgson (Tom) and Caroline Brown; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild.

Erskine Williams Jr. ’50B

Erskine Williams Jr. ’50B of Dallas, Texas, died on Feb. 3, 2013. He was 84. Williams matriculated from Memphis, Tennessee, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in English from VMI. He also held a master of business administration degree from Harvard School of Business. He is survived by his daughters, Marnie Williams and Cayce Kemp (Greg), and grandchildren, Margaret Kemp, Mary Warriner Kemp, Erskine (Mac) Kemp and Martin Kemp. He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Warriner Williams, and sister, Jane.

John G. Batsakis ’51

John George Batsakis ’51, M.D., of Houston, Texas, died on Jan. 20, 2013. He was 83. Batsakis matriculated from Petosky, Michigan, and attended VMI for a short time before transferring to and graduating from Albion College. He earned his doctor of medicine degree from the University of Michigan. He is survived by his wife, Mary Janet Batsakis; children, Laura Hansen, Sharon Batsakis and George Batsakis (Colleen); and grandchildren, Richard D. Hansen, Alexandra Hansen, Georgie Batsakis and Mary Margaret Batsakis.

John S. Gray ’51

John Stewart Gray ’51 of Richmond, Virginia, died on March 15, 2013. He was 83. Gray matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Patricia Parker Gray; children, Nancy Pugh (Victor), Kelly Longstreet (Joey) and J. Stewart Gray Jr.; grandchildren, Gray Pugh, Seth Pugh, Isaac Longstreet, Noble Longstreet, Chelsea Gray, Quinn Gray, Skylar Gray and Blayze Gray; stepdaughters, Jennifer Hux (Ernie) and Allison Starr (Mike) and their children, Rachel Hux, Ben Hux and Adam Starr; former wife and mother of his children, Anne Jones Gray; and nieces, Cary Kelly (Kevin), Susan Chambers (Ty) and Elizabeth Gray. He was preceded in death by his brother, Zachary T. Gray III ’50B, D.D.S., who died on Oct. 4, 1998.

E.R. McIver Coker ’52

Evander Roderick McIver Coker ’52 of Franklin, Virginia, died on April 9, 2013. He was 82. 163

TAPS Coker matriculated from Franklin and attended VMI for one year. He held a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from the University of Virginia and a master of science degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. He is survived by his wife, Louisa Hunt Coker; sons, William M. Coker (Sally), John H. Coker (Leslie) and James R. Coker (Gina); grandchildren, Laney, Will, Anne, Hannah, Mia, Reese and Charlie; and sisters, Mary C. Wieters and Flora C. Wood.

Thomas L. Gorman ’52

Thomas Leo Gorman ’52, M.D., of Richmond, Virginia, died on May 1, 2013. He was 82. Gorman matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and attended VMI for one year. He held a bachelor of science degree from Georgetown University and a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Virginia. He is survived by his wife, Roberta Harkins Gorman; children, Julie Shelton (Tyler), Teresa Haynes (Dennis), Thomas Jr. (Darlene), Susan Reimann (Thomas), Gregory, Michael (Erin), Christopher (Madeline) and Jeffrey (fiancée Natalie); grandchildren: David, Sarah and Andrew Haynes; Matthew Denny, Jennifer, Thomas and Stephen Reimann; Daniel and Emily Gorman; Noah, Oscar and Audrey Clare Gorman; and Anna, Carter and Molly Gorman; and great-grandchildren, Tristan Haynes and Christian Rowe. He was preceded in death by his brothers, James R. Gorman Jr. ’51, who died on March 15, 1999, and Dr. John B. Gorman.

Wilbur C. Hogan III ’52

Wilbur Clifton Hogan III ’52 of Williamsburg, Virginia, died on March 2, 2013. He was 83. Hogan matriculated from Staunton, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He also held a master of business administration degree from Syracuse University. He is survived by his son, Michael Kay Hogan (Mary); daughter, Colleen Michelle Tatiana; grandchildren, Stacy Felipe (Christian), Michael Hogan and Sarah Hogan; and great-grandchildren, McKayla Hogan, Kekoa Felipe and Malia Colon-Merlo; brother, Arthur Hogan (Gloria); and brother-in-law, Theodore Silva. He was predeceased by the mother of his 164

children, Fern Copeland Hogan, and his sister, Phyllis Silva.

James B. Hyatt ’52

James Bethel Hyatt ’52 of Richmond, Virginia, died on March 14, 2013. He was 81. Hyatt matriculated from Winchester, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He also held a master of business administration degree from West New England College. He is survived by his wife, Claire; daughter, Anne-Louise Hyatt; sons, Matthew Hyatt (Kimberly) and Christopher Hyatt (Anna); brothers, William E. Hyatt (Gail) and Onza E. Hyatt ’58 (Rebecca); and grandchildren, Brandon Hyatt (Angel), Tyler Hyatt and Christian Hyatt.

William W. Patton Jr. ’52

William Willis Patton Jr. ’52 of Frisco, Texas, died on Feb. 28, 2013. He was 81. Patton matriculated from Warrenton, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from VMI. He also held a master of arts degree from Webster University. He is survived by his children, Curtis L. Patton and Susan L. Patton; grandchildren, Christopher Patton (Elizabeth), Kelley Bowden (Jason), Joseph Gentile, Bridget Allen (Donald), Hayley Gentile and Veronica Gentile; and great-grandchildren, Nicolas, Nathaniel, Noah and Dean. He was preceded in death by his wife, Helen Gay Patton.

James E. Price Jr. ’52

James Edward Price Jr. ’52 of Greenville, Pennsylvania, died on March 9, 2013. He was 84. Price matriculated from Sewell, New Jersey, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Joanne Gibson Price; daughters, Pamela El Bezzaoui and Leslie Price; granddaughter, Briana Watson; grandson, Edward George; and great-granddaughter, Jenna Watson.

James M. Spellings ’52

James McIntosh Spellings ’52 of Dallas, Texas, died on March 26, 2013. He was 82. Spellings matriculated from Marshall, Texas, and attended VMI for two years. He earned a bachelor of science degree from Texas Tech University. He is survived by his wife, Darlene

Hunsaker Spellings; son, James M. Spellings (Margaret); daughter, Tracy Watts (Lawrence); grandchildren, Paul, Henry and Sarah Spellings and Adam and Daniel Watts; and brother, Leslie H. Spellings ’51 (Nan).

William T. Wood ’54

William Tignor Wood ’54 of Richmond, Virginia, died on Feb. 27, 2013. He was 81. Wood matriculated from Richmond and earned a bachelor of arts degree in biology from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Dolores Funai Wood; children, Deborah Elaine Wood and William M. Wood III ’79 (Christin); and grandchildren, Cabell Harding Dixon, William Tignor Wood II, Abigail Wright Wood and Robert Mason Wood. He was preceded in death by his grandfather, W. Morison Wood ’867, who died on March 2, 1943, and brother, Harold Edison Wood ’50B, who died on Sept. 24, 2006.

Shu-Park Chan ’55

Shu-Park Chan ’55, Ph.D., of San Jose, California, died on Feb. 22, 2013. He was 83. Chan matriculated from Taiwan, Province of China, and earned a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He held master of science and doctor of philosophy degrees Chan ’55 from the University of Illinois-Champaign. He is survived by his children, Charlene Chan Muehlbauer and Yau-Gene Chan, and three grandchildren. Chan was preceded in death by his wife, Stella Lam Chan.

Michael J. Foley ’55

Michael Joseph Foley ’55 of King William, Virginia, died on March 20, 2013. He was 80. Foley matriculated from Hopewell, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Ann; daughters, Nancy Embrey (Mike), Dawn Smith (Linwood), Susan Croxton (Brad) and Judith Foley-Metzger (Rick); 13 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

TAPS Vernon L. Crockett ’56

Vernon Lee Crockett ’56 of Franklin, Tennessee, died on March 23, 2013. He was 80. Crockett matriculated from North Tazewell, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Bailey Crockett; daughters, Cindy Crockett and Sharon Simone (Ron); brother, Stewart Long (Jeanette); sisters, Jan Crockett and Sharon Richardson (Joe); grandchildren, Chris Crockett and Jonathan and Stacy Dementry; and great-grandchild, Cameron Crockett.

Ronald L. Frinks ’56

Ronald Lee Frinks ’56 of Lynchburg, Virginia, died on April 2, 2013. He was 78. Frinks matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Jane Frinks; daughters, Sharon Paganelli (Michael) and Brenda Morrow; son, Edward Frinks (Heather); and grandchildren, Brandon and Shannon Morrow, Jason and Nick Paganelli, and Hannah and Grace Frinks.

Laurin L. Dick ’59

Laurin Lawson Dick ’59 of Washington, D.C., died on Feb. 14, 2014. He was 76. Dick matriculated from Washington, D.C., and attended VMI for one year. He is survived by his wife, Jutta Kaminski Dick; children, Holly Morello (David), Joan Knisely (Jeff), Heidi Funkhouser (Michael) and Paul Dick (Emily); and grandsons, Max, Luke, Cosmo, Lawson and Calvin. He was preceded in death by his brother, William White Dick III ’57, who died on Sept. 9, 2009.

Donald K. Duncan ’60

Donald Keister Duncan ’60 of Manakin Sabot, Virginia, died on Jan. 31. 2013. He was 75. Duncan matriculated from Bradley, West Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Bell Duncan; children, Kristie Bonovitch (David), Heather Duncan (Brian Patterson) and Kevin Duncan; grandchildren, Tanner, Wyatt and Emma; mother-in-law, Hilda Bell; sisters-in-law, Wilma Duncan and Debbie Randolph; and nieces, Patty, Debbie and Becky. He was preceded in death by his brother, 2013-Issue 3

Thomas E. Duncan Jr. ’47, who died on Oct. 25, 2004.

Martin B. Williams Jr. ’60

Martin Braxton Williams Jr. ’60 of Beckley, West Virginia, died on Dec. 26, 2012. He was 75. Williams matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and attended VMI for one year. He graduated from the University of Richmond and also earned a master of business administration degree from the College of William and Mary. He is survived by his wife, Sue Powell Williams; son, Martin B. Williams III (Rebecca) and their daughters, Ashley Elizabeth and Sarah Kristen Williams; son, James Leslie Williams and his daughter, Rachel Suzanne Williams; daughter-in-law, Ronda Williams; and grandsons, Aaron Martin Williams and Joshua James Williams; son, Christopher Patrick Williams (Melissa) and their son, Zachary Ryan Williams.

George M. Van Orden ’61

Retired Lt. Col. George Van Orden ’61, USMC, of Midlothian, Virginia, died on March 3, 2013. He was 73. Van Orden matriculated from Triangle, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Marina Geipel Van Orden; children, George, James, Lee and Rina; sister, Flora; and five grandchildren.

Karl F. Zick ’61

Retired Lt. Col. Karl Frederick Zick ’61, USAF, of Corpus Christi, Texas, died on April 18, 2013. Zick matriculated from Gary, West Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. Zick is survived by his wife, Mollie Ray Zick, and daughter, Wendy Zick Smith. Editor’s Note: There was no formal obituary provided.

James H. Guy Jr. ’66

James Harold Guy Jr. ’66 of Sharon, Pennsylvania, died on Feb. 13, 2013. He was 69. Guy matriculated from Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, and attended VMI for two years. He later earned a bachelor’s degree in business from Widener University. He is survived by his wife, Marie Henrich Guy; daughter, Angelique Stephens

(Lance); son, Kristofer Guy (Samantha); brother, Ronald Guy (Giselle); grandchildren, Amanda, Kurtis, Kari, Ian, Nikolas and Liam; and great-grandchildren, Michaela, Anthony and Alexander. He was preceded in death by his sister, Charlotte Elizabeth Guy.

Kenneth N. Libby II ’66

Kenneth Nielson Libby II ’66 of Denver, Colorado, died on March 17, 2013. He was 68. Libby matriculated from Dayton, Ohio, and attended VMI for one year. He earned a bachelor of arts degree from Earlham College and a master of business administration degree from the University of Colorado. He is survived by his wife, Karen Olson Libby; sons, Matthew N. Libby (Lorie) and Andrew E. Libby; and mother, Phyllis Libby.

William E. Stuckmeyer III ’66

William Edward Stuckmeyer III ’66 of Lakewood, Colorado, died on Feb. 1, 2013. He was 68. Stuckmeyer matriculated from Springfield, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from VMI. Editor’s Note: There was no formal obituary provided.

Richard J. Cabaniss ’70

Richard Jennings Cabaniss ’70 of Saint Kitts, West Indies, died on Nov. 26, 2012. He was 64. Cabaniss matriculated from Hanover County, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from VMI. He held a master of business administration degree from Georgia State University and a juris doctor degree from Emory University. He is survived by his children, Lisa Cabaniss Farnham; John Marshall Cabaniss, William Henry Cabaniss and Courtney May Cabaniss; grandchildren, Madeline Farnham, William Cabaniss and Sara Elizabeth Cabaniss; and brothers, Robert W. Cabaniss Jr. and William V. Cabaniss.

John F. Thomas ’71

John Francis Thomas ’71 of Tecumseh, Michigan, died on March 12, 2013. He was 63. Thomas matriculated from Toledo, Ohio, and attended VMI for three years. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Toledo. 165

TAPS TAPS He is survived by his daughter, Karianne Epkey (Dale); sons, Rev. Jeffrey Thomas (Erica) and Rev. James Thomas (Jennifer); brothers, Paul Thomas (Kathy), Stephen Thomas, James Thomas (Debi) and Michael Thomas (Kim); and grandchildren, Justine, Ian, Quinn, Rebecca, Emma, Jeffrey, Christian and Caleb. He was preceded in death by his wife, Karyn Forbes Thomas, and son, J. Scott Thomas.

Judge matriculated from Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, and attended VMI for one year. He earned a bachelor of science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy. He is survived by his wife, Maureen Walsh Judge; sons, John H. Judge and Matthew C. Judge; parents, John and Loline Judge; and sisters, Loline Judge Sechivich (Bob), Elaine Macedonia (David) and Ann Masood (Jim).

Norman S. Stevens ’77

William James Bradley III ’82 of Ridgewood, New Jersey, died on March 22, 2013. He was 52. Bradley matriculated from Billerica, Massachusetts, and graduated With Distinction from VMI, earning a bachelor of arts degree in English. He also held a juris doctor degree from the University of Richmond. He is survived by his wife, Linda Edelman Bradley; children, Rachel Lynn and Sarah Beth; mother, Mae Bradley; sister, Sharon Rukes (William); and nephew, Christopher. He was preceded in death by his father, William James Bradley Jr.

Norman Scott Stevens ’77, Ph.D., of Kankakee, Illinois, died on March 29, 2013. He was 57. Stevens matriculated from Seymour, Connecticut, and graduated from VMI With Distinction, earning a bachelor of arts degree in history. He held both a master of arts and a doctor of philosophy degree from the University of Connecticut.

Craig F.J. Badalaty ’78

Craig Francis Joseph Badalaty ’78 of Dayton, New Jersey, died on Feb. 14, 2013. He was 56. Badalaty matriculated from Bedford, New Jersey, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Lea Gabbe Badalaty; sons, Gavin Green (Krista) and Joshua; brother, Bruce Badalaty; sisters, Madeline and Nadine Badalaty; and grandchildren, Noah and Jackson.

Joseph D. Brown IV ’80

Maj. Gen. Joseph Daniel Brown IV ’80, USAF, of Fort McNair, Washington, D.C., died on April 19, 2013. He was 54. Both Brown and his wife perished after the plane he was piloting crashed near the Williamsburg-Jamestown (Virginia) Airport. Brown matriculated from Williamsburg, Virginia, and graduated from VMI With Distinction, attaining a bachelor of arts degree in history. He held a master of science degree from Central Michigan University and a master’s in art and science from the National War College. He is survived by his children, Daniel C. Brown and Emily Allison Brown.

John W. Judge ’81

John William Judge ’81 of Fredericksburg, Virginia, died on Jan. 24, 2013. He was 53. 166

William J. Bradley III ’82

Richard B. Baker ’84

Richard Ball Baker ’84 of Norfolk, Virginia, died on April 2, 2013. He was 51. Baker matriculated from Chesapeake, Virginia, and graduated With Distinction from VMI, earning a bachelor of arts degree in modern languages. He also held a juris doctor degree from the Marshall-Wythe School of Law at the College of William and Mary. He is survived by his wife, Danna; his children, Alexandria Grace Baker, Richard Lee Baker and Catherine Dyer Baker; brothers, Edwin L. Baker III ’80, M.D., (Dianna) and Dr. William Powell Baker (Amy); father-in-law, Louis C. Drake Sr. ’54; and cousin, Timothy R. Spencer ’83. He was preceded in death by his father, Edwin L. Baker Jr. ’43, who died on July 3, 1989.

David M. Smith ’87

Capt. David Matthew Smith ’87, USN, died on March 17, 2013. He was 47 at the time of his death and had been stationed in Naples, Italy. Smith matriculated from Holtwood, Pennsylvania, and earned a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He also held a master of science degree in electrical engineering from Penn State University and a master of arts

degree in national security and strategic studies from the Naval War College. In addition, he was a graduate of the University of Virginia, Darden School of Business Executive Program. He is survived by his wife, Lisa Stover Smith; children, Malena, Aubrey and Michael Smith; mother, Mrs. Harry C. Smith; and siblings, Rebecca F. Smith-Kevern, Rachel H. Smith May and Daniel M. Smith.

E. Marr Snyder ’92

Edward Marr Snyder ’92 of Heathsville, Virginia, died on Dec. 12, 2012. He was 42. Snyder matriculated from Brooke, Virginia, majored in economics and attended VMI for four years. He is survived by his wife, Jenny Mellquist Snyder; son, Parker; parents, Edward C. and Anne Snyder; grandmother, Emogene Dayton; brother, Walter C. Snyder; and sister, Tina Snyder Breede.

James J. Schmidgal ’04

James Joseph Schmidgal ’04 of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, died on March 21, 2013. He was 30. Schmidgal matriculated from Greensburg, Pennsylvania. He is survived by his father and stepmother, Erik W. and Barbara E. Schmidgal; siblings, Edward, Megan and Chad; stepsisters, Adrienne, Kimberlee and Wendy; stepbrother, Johnny Urban; and grandfather, Edward Booher. He was preceded in death by his mother, Jane Booher Schmidgal.

John F. Streetman Jr. ’05

John Fred Streetman Jr. ’05 of Las Vegas, Nevada, formerly Plainville, Georgia, died on April 28, 2013. He was 29. Streetman matriculated from Plainville and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his parents, John Streetman ’05 F. Streetman Sr. and Paula Caldwell Streetman; sister, Amanda Horne (Matthew); maternal grandparents, John and Roberta Caldwell; and nieces, Madison Elaine, Sarah Marie and Kaylee Grace Horne. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

THE VMI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION DIRECTORY The VMI Alumni Association, Inc. President

Robert A. Heely ’69 507 Westover Ave. Norfolk, VA 23507 bob_heely@wcbay.com

First Vice President

Edgar J.T. Perrow Jr. ’96 PO Box 3133 Lynchburg, VA 24503-0133 tperrow@wwassociates.net

Second Vice President Robert P. Louthan ’82 809 Lindsay Ct. Richmond, VA 23229-6823 rlouthan1@gmail.com

The VMI Foundation, Inc.

Executive Vice President

President

Walton M. Jeffress Jr. ’68

Adam C. Volant ’88 P.O. Box 932 Lexington, VA 24450 avolant@vmiaa.org

President

William A. Paulette ’69

Thomas W. Davis ’64 davistw@vmi.edu

Randolph M. Blanks ’67 4773 Charter Ct. Woodbridge, VA 22192 vmi67@comcast.net

Brian S. Crockett

The VMI Keydet Club, Inc.

Historian

Immediate Past President

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Executive Officer Gregory M. Cavallaro ’84

Directors at Large Terms Expire June 30, 2014 Kenneth Herbert ‘81 kherbert81@cox.net Dallas Clark ‘99 clarkdb@vmi.edu

Terms Expire June 30, 2015 Jessica J. Schmaus ‘04 jessica.schmaus@gmail.com Matthew Hemenez‘90 mhemenez@surefire.com

Region/ Director

Chapter Name

Chapter President

President’s E-mail

Russell Shun Takata ’74 John D. Bolt ’99 Todd E. Arris ’87 James R. Farmer ’68 William V. Trumpore ’89 Thomas R. Clark III ’73 Micah T. Wei ’99 Andre J. Gibson ’78 Trent L. Boggs ’83 Matthew L. Wilson ’89 Kenneth S. Krynski ’89

russell.takata@yahoo.com jdbolt@hotmail.com tearris@gmail.com seattlefarmer@comcast.net vailkeydet@gmail.com vmiman@comcast.net mwei100@yahoo.com andrejg@aol.com tboggs@gci.com mwilson@goldfc.com krynskiks@pendleton.usmc.mil

Russell Shun Takata ’74 Matthew R. Hemenez ’90 Todd E. Arris ’87 James R. Farmer ’68 William V. Trumpore ’89 Katrina D. Powell ’06 Nathaniel P. Ward IV ’65 Peter H. Lyons ’54 Trent L. Boggs ’83 Joseph S. Howard III ’97 John D. Christie ’59

San Antonio Centex Chicago Kansas City, Missouri North TX - Dallas Rio Grande SE TX - Houston Southwest Ohio St. Louis Detroit Little Rock Bluegrass Third Coast (Corpus Christi) Oklahoma Cleveland

Robert R. Costigan ’70 Stephen J. Barcik III ’85 Christopher L. Haney ’00 Jeffrey D. Vordermark ’79 Robert L. Manteuffel ’77 Alexander E. Woelper ’80 Joseph J. Leonard Jr. ’83 J. Micah North ’00 Harry W. Gore Jr. ’72 David C. Hagemann ’80 James F. Dittrich ’76 Gregory G. McDearmon ’99 Walter J. Kleine ’63 Hamel B. Reinmiller ’98 Brian D. Skusa ’00

bcosti@mindspring.com steve.barcik@htds2.com haneycl@yahoo.com vordermark@juno.com rlmanteuffel@sbcglobal.net alexw@enconinternational.com Joseph.J.Leonard@uscg.mil j.micah.north@gmail.com goreharry@vmialumni.org dhag80@aol.com jim_dittrich@leisurearts.com ggmcd34@earthlink.net WKleine@STX.RR.com HBRvmi98@vmialumni.org skusabd@gmail.com

Jimmie V. Thurmond ’56 Jeffrey L. Minch ’73 Donald A. Noschese Jr. ’92 Todd J. Jacobs ’90

Greater Rhode Island New England NY City - Long Island North Jersey

Patrick L. McGuire ’85 Patrick J. Griffin ’80 George T. Mosby ’97 Richard C. Wolffe Jr. ’78

magsvmi@email.com anchors80@comcast.net gmosby@liquidnet.com RWolffe@tspcapitalmgt.com

Patrick L. McGuire ’85 John W. Wainwright III ’82 John R. Gibney Jr. ’80

Thomas M. Wirth ’98 Duane E. Williams ’66 Frederick J. Killmeyer IV ’95 Allan R. Berenbrok ’80

twirth@mragta.com dwilliams@pa.net rkillmeyer@mcintyre-group.com allan.berenbrok@tetratech.com

Thomas J. Hickey Jr. ’68 Lester C. Martin ’68 John T. Pace IV ’77

Terence L. Bowers ’68 Thomas N. Daniel Jr. ’60 Charles C. Schoen IV ’86 John R. Savage ’74 Robert P. Quarles III ’80 William E. Kirby III ’96 Christopher R. Jones ’96

terrybowers@vmialumni.org tomdaniel60@charter.net cschoen@ironwoodins.com

Raymond R. Lawson ’81 Campbell C. Hyatt III ’65 Charles C. Schoen IV ’86 John R. Savage ’74 Philip J. Altizer Jr. ’80 Charles S. Sanger ’82 Kevin L. Snell ’82

Hawaii Greater Los Angeles Bob Clingenpeel ’69 Northern California Pacific Northwest bclingenpeel1@ Rocky Mountain gmail.com Pikes Peak San Diego Inland Empire Chapter Alaska Arizona Las Vegas

Region I Far West

Region II Midwest

Jim Dittrich ’76

jim.dittrich @leisurearts.com

Region III Northeast

Felix Wolkowitz ’75 fwolkowitz@ wolkowbraker.com

Region IV Mid Atlantic

Baltimore Peter Charrington ’66 Central Keystone Delaware Valley pcharrin@ Western PA - Pittsburgh comcast.net

Region V Southeas

C. Patrick Haddock ’00 vmitranspo@ hotmail.com

2013-Issue 3

Augusta Appalachian Atlanta Coastal GA - South Carolina Midsouth Middle TN - Nashville East TN - Knoxville

rpquarles@buckman.com ktkirby@comcast.net crj2112@gmail.com

Chapter Representative

Steven P. Weiss ’86 J. Micah North ’00 Robert C. Polk ’61 Mark A. Benvenuto ’83 Hugh R. Hill ’85 M. Douglass Payne ’73 David R. Yockel Jr. ’90

167

THE VMI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION DIRECTORY Region/ Director

Chapter Name

Chapter President

Club of the Triad Cape Fear Central NC - Raleigh Charlotte Camp Lejeune/Crystal Coast Palmetto, South Carolina Coastal Carolina, SC Wilmington, NC

Jeffrey B. Morrison ’99 Charles L. Toomey ’74 Jonathan D. Atkins ’98 Michael S. Anderson ’88 John Moder ’98

President’s E-mail

Chapter Representative

roo1999@gmail.com toomeyl@pinehurst.net jda@restorationexpertsofnc.com mike.anderson@allentate.com john.moder@gmail.com

Charles H. Alligood ’61 Charles L. Toomey ’74 Jonathan D. Atkins ’98 James A. Sharp ’93

Brendan A. Kearney ’03 John Guggenheimer ’93

Karl L. Klinar ’54 bakearney@hotmail.com Steve E. Hively ’72 john.guggenheimer@wellsfargo.com

Birmingham Central Florida Mobile NE Florida - Jacksonville Southern Florida Tennessee Valley West Coast FL - Tampa Southwest Florida-Fort Meyer Greater New Orleans Mississippi The Villages - Florida

William H. Cather Jr. ’65 J.C. Nagle IV ’87 Charles M. Rogers IV ’83 Jason M. Goldstein ’02 John A. Weekes Jr. ’97 Herbert U. Fluhler ’77 Robert M. Bailey ’72 Bradford T. Herrell ’01 Rhys D. Williams ’07 P. Wells Griffith III ’05 Walter L. Chalkley ’72

billcather@bellsouth.net jay.nagle@parsons.com max.rogers@mobileinfirmary.org jmgoldstein@mactec.com jweekeslaw@gmail.com huf2000@aol.com bobngracebailey@tampabay.rr.com vmigrad1@hotmail.com rhys.david.williams@gmail.com wellsgriffith@gmail.com waltchalkley@aol.com

William H. Cather Jr. ’65 John Nagle ’87 John H. Friend III ’82 Grafton D. Addison III ’82 Christopher R. Jones ’72 Raymond J. Pietruszka ’77 Andrew M. Neff ’79 Brett R. Martin ’00

New River Valley Lynchburg Roanoke

Christopher M. Boswell ’00 chrisboswellvmi@gmail.com al@landordbros.com Alan G. Soltis ’79

N. Shenandoah Valley Chapter Charlottesville Blue Ridge Rockbridge County Allegheny Highlands Stonewall Jackson

W. Douglas Thomas ’65 James E. Duncan ’98 G. Wayne Eastham ’76 T. Keith Jarvis ’82 T. Troy Barbour ’89 Jason K. Gruse ’97

wdtllt@comcast.net jim@realcentralva.com weastham@carrhyde.com jarvistk@vmi.edu troy.barbour@hcahealthcare.com jasongruse@hotmail.com

Kevin J. Callanan ’78 Mark H. Bryant ’77 R. Edward Duncan ’60 Lewis V. Graybill ’62 Harrison L. Fridley Jr. ’61 Roger A. Jarrell II ’91

Eastern Shore

vmi79classagent@aol.com dtyler4@cox.net joshua.p.priest@navy.mil ed.plucinski@hanson.com ghaste@associatedcontracting.com jrowe66@cox.net

Thomas F. Wilson ’80

Norfolk Peninsula Virginia Beach Western Tidewater

Michael S. Ogden ’79 David G. Tyler IV ’86 Joshua P. Priest ’80 Edward M. Plucinski ’86 Gary J. Haste ’77 John L. Rowe Jr. ’66

George C. Marshall Potomac River

douglas.warner1@gmail.com Douglas B. Warner ’03 Christopher J. Whittaker’90 cwhittvmi@gmail.com

Henry J. Foresman Jr. ’76

Richmond Tri Cities

Hilbert W. Wilkinson III ’94 bretwilkinson@gmail.com samuelmattocks762@gmail.com Samuel L. Mattocks ’74

Samuel N. Stocks ’90 Augustus Robbins III ’47

Rappahannock Richard Duke ’90

Fredericksburg - Quantico Rappahannock Williamsburg Southside

Carl J. DeBernard Jr. ’94 Stephen E. Wilson ’68 Peter J. Kokolis ’96 George D. Dyer ’66

carl.debernard@dhs.gov sewilson68@verizon.net pkokolis@cox.net spookfive@aol.com

Region XIV Pacific Rim

Thailand Taiwan

Vaipot Srinual ’72 Ching-Pu Chen ’85

chingpu@saturn.yzu.edu.tw

Region VI Carolinas

Charles Ramsburg ’66

clramsburg@gmail.com

Region VII Deep South

Walter Chalkley ’72

waltchalkley@aol.com

Region VIII Southwest VA Bland Massie ’77

super77@vmialumni.org

Region IX Shenandoah Valley

Thomas K. Jarvis ’82 jarvistk@vmi.edu

Region X Hampton Roads Asa Page III ’79 vmi79@verizon.net Douglas Burdett ’82 douglas@ artillerymarketing.com

Region XI Metro D.C.

Sean Boyle ’91

boyle100@comcast.net

John T. McCarthy ’87 J. Patrick Henderson ’99

James A. Parsons ’80 David J. Trenholm ’70 H. Ali Mahan ’80 Oliver D. Creekmore ’66

Region XII Central VA

Hilbert Wilkinson III ’94 vmirichmondnetwork @gmail.com

Samuel Stocks ’90

sstocks@kbsgc.com

Region XIII rduke@ mcguirewoods.com

168

R. C. Thompson III ’74 Robert B. Powell ’63 Jim E. Henry ’68

Vaipot Srinual ’72 Ching-Pu Chen ’85

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ALUMNI NEWS ALUMNI NEWS Owens & Minor Inc. announced that G. Gilmer Minor III ’63, chairman of the board since 1994, retired at the company’s annual shareholders’ meeting on April 26, 2013. An article in the Richmond Times-Dispatch announced that Minor is assuming the position of chairman emeritus of the Hanover County-based distributor of medical Minor ’63 and surgical supplies and health care supply chain company. Minor is the great-grandson of one of the company’s founders for whom he was named, the article stated. The company was founded in 1882 in Richmond. Each of the George Gilmer Minors served as executives in the company. Minor III, his father, grandfather and great-grandfather all served as president of the company. Minor retired as chairman and CEO in 2005 but continued as the non-executive board chairman. He has been with Owens & Minor all of his working life, joining the company following graduation from VMI in 1963. Minor worked in sales, operations and management capacities before becoming president in 1981 and CEO in 1984. He was elected chairman in 1994. In 1999, he relinquished the president’s title. The Times-Dispatch article quoted an Owens & Minor company statement, saying, “Minor is widely respected for working tirelessly on behalf of customers, teammates and shareholders, as well as his efforts on behalf of the communities served by Owens & Minor.” A spokesperson said, “Through a combination of strong leadership and a keen understanding of the health care industry, Gil Minor has built a strategically focused company that remains true to its principles and culture of high integrity and customer focus in a rapidly changing marketplace.” Minor matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in history. He also holds a master of business administration degree from the University of Virginia Darden School of Business. The former president of Costen Floors, Inc., Ralph L. Costen Jr. ’70, was presented with

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the 2012 Innsbrook Rotary Business Leadership Award for his “outstanding leadership in business, a commitment to high ethical standards and dedication to the community,” as reported in the Richmond Times-Dispatch. Costen’s son, Ralph L. Costen III ’97, now runs Costen Floors, with his father assisting him. Costen Jr. matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in history. Malcolm T. Kerley ’71, P.E., has been named the 2013 Engineer of the Year by the Richmond Joint Engineers’ Council (RJEC), which recognized Kerley at its annual celebration banquet. Kerley recently retired from the Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT), in which he had been serving as chief engineer, a position he had held since 2004. In that role, he had been responsible for the quality, cost and timeliness of all engineering plans associated with the design of and rightof-way acquisition for VDOT transportation projects. Prior to that, he had served as administrator of VDOT’s Structure and Bridge Division, responsible for planning, designing and overseeing construction, maintenance and inspection of more than 20,000 bridges and overpasses. Kerley began his career with VDOT in 1971. A graduate of VMI, Kerley matriculated from Falls Church, Virginia, and holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. Michael P. Luning ’80, P.E., has been named a vice president of Gannett Fleming, Inc. Based at the firm’s Hampton Roads and Richmond, Virginia, offices, Luning has been a chief engineer responsible for oversight of all quality assurance and quality control project elements for the Hampton Luning ’80 Roads office. He has also served as the senior project management resource within the office to assure compliance with all corporate policies and procedures for project execution and completion. With nearly 33 years of experience, Luning holds a bachelor of science degree in civil

engineering from VMI. He is a registered professional engineer in Virginia and a member of the American Water Works Association. Luning matriculated from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. An article about retired U.S. Army Col. James R. Lunsford ’80 and his company, Decisive-Point, appeared in the April 5, 2013, online issue of The Kansas City Star. The article stated that Lunsford has sold nine of his “serious games” to the Army, far more than anyone else in his line of work. (Serious games are those that are designed for a primary purpose other than entertainment.) From Fort Leavenworth to West Point, the article said, Lunsford’s games help train officers in strategic planning and war-fighting tactics such as troop movement, intelligence, logistics and fire support. Lunsford is the president and founder of Decisive-Point, a million-dollar company he runs from his Kansas City, Missouri, condo. He also has sold serious games to the British, Australian and Ukrainian armies. The Star article said that his games are part of a broader revolution in serious gaming, in which computer games, video games, and smartphone and tablet apps are used to train workers in health care, education, law enforcement, firefighting and the military. While in the Army, Lunsford spent part of his career teaching tactics at the Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. A pioneer in the gaming field, he developed his first serious game for the military in 1990. Lunsford matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and graduated With Distinction from VMI, earning a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. José J. Suárez ’82 has been named managing director, North America Mining Lead and Global Lead Mining Capital Projects for Accenture’s Resources operating group. Suárez brings to the position more than 25 years of experience in engineering, procurement and construction (EPC); engineering, procurement and construction management (EPCM); and in the start-up and operations of major industrial plants for the mining, the power (coal-fired, combined cycle and gas-fired), the pulp and paper, the oil and gas, and the

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ALUMNI NEWS cement industries. In the mining seccompleted the Shenandoah the Smyrna Readiness Center in Smyrna, tor, he has worked on copper, nickel, Muddy Mountain 100-mile Delaware. alumina, iron ore, steel, gold, potash, Backcountry Mountain Bike Begley, who works as an information and titanium projects and operaRace, which was held in Vir- management consultant for Deloitte LLP in tions. He has program management ginia’s George Washington Virginia, is commander of the 261st Signal expertise in the design and project National Forest. This is the Brigade, which he has led since August 2011. management of mining, power, oil only race of its kind on the East Attending the ceremony were class of 1985 and gas, and infrastructure /environCoast, including nearly 14,000 Brother Rats David Higginbotham and Wil mental projects, including light rail feet of climbing. Arthur, as well as Tom Parkins ’72, Glen projects, pharmaceutical, food and Six hundred bicyclists trav- Jones ’78, Col. Michael Castaldi ’86, Lt. Col. Suárez ’82 beverage, water and wastewater, and eled over six mountains, along William Stegemerten ’94 and Kyle James ’12. wharf/pier/port facility projects from single-track paths. Tropical Begley is a graduate of the U.S. Army War the conceptual/study phase, EPC/EPCM phase Storm Isaac had rained on the course the College and, during his 27 years of service, to the start-up and commissioning phase, and previous week, and cyclists were pelted by has completed the U.S. Army Airborne and the operations project stages. In addition, he rain twice during the race. Air Assault Schools and numerous courses as has experience in the design, installation, comDespite the fact that Toler lost a signal corps officer. missioning and operations for off gas ducting his rear brakes after 78 miles, Maj. Gen. Frank Vavala, the and filtration systems for the mining industry, he completed the course in 15adjutant general of Delaware the power generation industry, the oil and gas plus hours. stated, “His selection to this industry, and the pulp and paper industry. Toler matriculated from Richhigh level post validates Previously, Suárez was senior vice president mond, Virginia, and graduated everything we know about of Business Development within the Global from VMI with a bachelor’s [Begley] – he is a capable ofMining and Metallurgy Division at SNC- degree in biology. In addition, ficer whose signal expertise, Lavalin. he earned bachelor of science knowledge of Guard affairs, Suárez matriculated from Ponce, Puerto and doctor of optometry degrees and exceptional experience, Rico, and graduated from VMI with a bache- from the Pennsylvania College leadership and hard work lor’s degree in civil engineering. He also holds of Optometry. are indispensable assets both a master’s degree in engineering management to our National Guard and to Begley ’85 from the University of Kansas. James P. Begley III ’85 has our great nation.” been promoted to brigadier Begley matriculated from Alan G. Toler ’83, OD, fellow of the Col- general in the Delaware National Guard. Wilmington, Delaware, and holds a bachlege of Optometrists in Vision Development, The promotion ceremony took place at elor’s degree in history from VMI.

Tunnard ’89 Leads Efforts to Restore NJ Coastline After Hurricane Sandy When Superstorm Sandy hit New Jersey on Oct. 29, 2012, the storm caused historic damage across the state but especially along the famous shoreline. Retired Navy Reserve Cmdr. Andrew J. Tunnard ’89 led the New Jersey Department of Transportation’s (NJDOT) effort to begin restoring the shore areas. As director of NJDOT Operations Support, Tunnard was in charge of the initial transportation recovery efforts from Sandy Hook to Atlantic City – about 150 miles of coast line. Under his leadership, NJDOT mobilized hundreds of state and contract personnel to get the transportation system restored as quickly as possible. His team repaired 80 sink holes; removed 4,425 truckloads of debris; hauled 4,330 truck-

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loads of “clean sand,” and reconstructed State Road 35 where the Atlantic Ocean breached the barrier island and entered Barnegat Bay. All major work was completed, and the transportation system along the shore was fully functional by Dec. 21, 2013. Tunnard’s efforts have been recognized by Toms River, the Borough of Mantoloking and Ocean County, New Jersey. He also was featured in the Asbury Park Press which ran an article describing his team’s efforts as the

miracle of Route 35. Above are Tunnard, left, with New Jersey Governor Chris Christie in Seaside Heights, New Jersey, on Nov. 9, 2012.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ALUMNI NEWS T. Matthew Creech ’96, a Smith Moore Leatherwood attorney, has been named by North Carolina Super Lawyers magazine as a “Rising Star” in 2013 for his work in employment benefits law. Less than 2.5 percent of attorneys in the state are named Rising Stars, which are selected by peer nominations of attorneys who are 40 years old or younger or have 10 years or less of legal experience. Creech matriculated from Greensboro, North Carolina, and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in history. He went on to earn a master of science degree from Georgia State University and a juris doctor degree from Pennsylvania State Dickinson School of Law. James G. Goodwillie ’12 and Chase P. Worthington ’12, co-founders of Blue Baggs, must have been pleased when their system’s

mobile app ended up in the “new and noteworthy” section of Apple’s App Store. As reported in a March 25, 2013, Richmond Times-Dispatch article, Goodwillie said the prominent placement helped the company, which he started with Worthington in 2012, pass 4,000 downloads and about 2,000 regular users. Blue Baggs is a shopping system that helps sort and track online purchases. When shopping online, users can save a product to look at or purchase later, and a key selling point is the ability to easily compare prices on items. When Goodwillie and Worthington started Blue Baggs in fall 2012, the article states, they focused on integrating their technology into online shopping done from a web browser, primarily on a computer. Users downloaded a “bagg” button to their Internet browser’s tool bar. They have recently shifted their focus to

mobile use of Blue Baggs and, as of this writing, are hoping to quickly complete an app for Android devices. The Times-Dispatch article states that the founders have funded the company only with investments and loans from friends and family, and they are starting to look for venture money to scale the business. The two classmates, who started the company during their first class year at VMI, said they expect the business to continue evolving. Looking ahead, they are hoping for better mobile payment integration, which will make buying easier down the road. Goodwillie matriculated from Richmond and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in biology. Also a VMI graduate, Worthington matriculated from Mechanicsville, Virginia, and holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

Hughes ’65 Helps Get Recognition for Vietnam Vets Editor’s Note: The following article featuring J. Robert Hughes ’65 appeared in the Feb. 22, 2013, online issue of The News Herald (Panama City, Florida). It is reprinted here with permission from the publication’s editor.

Ceremony Promotes License Plate for Vietnam Vets by Mathew Beaton / The News Herald An emotion-packed ceremony promoting a new license plate for Vietnam veterans reached a crescendo when a local man was presented with the area’s first tag. Fighting back tears, state Rep. Jimmy Patronis, R-Panama City, handed the plate to Bob Hughes [’65], a Panama City lawyer and Vietnam veteran. The moment brought applause from the more than 100 gathered inside the Bay County Commission chambers, and then a jocular voiced called out: “Jimmy, be sure he pays for that.” Last year, Hughes alerted Patronis to the fact that no specialty military license plate was available to Vietnam veterans, identifying their service. The representative looked into it and found that was the case. “Every conflict was there, except for Vietnam. What an oversight on behalf of the citizen-led Florida Legislature,” Patronis said. The lawmaker acted quickly, passing legislation last year, and the plates – to little fanfare – became available in October [2012]. Patronis said Hughes had called him, asking about the plate, but Patronis had forgotten about the legislation. “And then the light goes off in my head — maybe nobody else remembers this law had passed either, and really none had,” Patronis said. So, [this] event was part promotion, part thank you, part American Legion-style gathering, with

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scores of veterans wearing navy-colored hats with gold letters. But the sting of decades-old disrespect didn’t go unmentioned. When Hughes spoke, he recalled coming back in the summer of 1970 and being stationed at Atlanta’s Fort McPherson. He said Friday’s ceremony was a “long way” from how he was treated then. “I went downtown to meet one of my friends for lunch, and I was wearing my uniform, walking down Peachtree [Street], and people got off the sidewalk to get away from that uniform,” he said. But that period may have been necessary so Americans could realize soldiers should be supported regardless of how people feel about the war, Hughes said. “They can detest or they can be dissatisfied with the war or the commitment to which the troops are put, but they can never again – and won’t again – treat the troops like some of us got treated back in those days,” he said to applause. Hughes also cracked jokes about the day’s heavy rain. “I was talking to a couple guys when I came in, [saying] that it’s appropriate that the monsoon’s going on out there,” he said. “I also mentioned the fact that I was holding an umbrella, and I didn’t have one of those [in Vietnam], and I know y’all didn’t either.” And the veteran acknowledged his wife, getting choked up about how war’s impact extends beyond the soldier. “The families suffered, too, and they sacrificed, and the honor goes to them, too,” Hughes said, his voice breaking. Afterward, Vietnam veterans like Nick Nicastro, 70, were eager to get their new tags. They flooded the front podium where forms had been set out to get the plates. The Springfield resident said he planned to get three, one for each of his

Florida State Rep. Jimmy Patronis, RPanama City, right, presented a new license plate for Vietnam veterans to Bob Hughes ’65, a Panama City lawyer, inside the Bay County Commission chambers in Panama City. Photo by Andrew P. Johnson, The News Herald. vehicles. He said the tag was long overdue. “It’s just about pride. We see these other tags, and I always said, ‘Maybe we should have something like that,’” said the Air Force veteran who served two tours in Vietnam. “It’s just a long time coming,” he said. Patronis and Hughes said there is no extra fee for the tag. After the event, Patronis said he was thrilled about the turnout. He also said the tag comes at an appropriate time – near the 40th anniversary of the war’s formal end, when the Paris Peace Accords were signed. “The story’s about them, not me,” he said. “I got my satisfaction out of just being here.”

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ALUMNI NEWS ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... The Battle Buddy Diet by Col. Robert Slay, M.D. ’69. Kindle Publishing, Feb. 5, 2013. ISBN (e-book): 9780615749693 or ISBN (printed version): 978-0615774114. Available via Amazon.com. Retired U.S. Army Col. Robert Slay, M.D., a former Delta Force physician, has declared a personal war on obesity and disease and recruited his physician wife to join him. Faced with their own insidious weight gain and the relentless progression of diseases brought on by excessive abdominal fat and eating the wrong foods, this doctor couple devised their own simple “Battle Plan” to reclaim their health. This book is a humorous recounting of how they did it. The book explains how any couple can implement the same plan and together, as “Battle Buddies,” succeed in just four weeks. The facts contained in this eye-opening book are shocking. Whether obese or not, people who eat the wrong foods (Western diet) have been proven to be at high risk for developing obesity, diabetes, heart disease, stroke and cancers. Slay lists the “12 lethal foods” that he believes should be eliminated permanently from our diets and tells readers why. According to Slay, traditional medicine does not offer prevention or a cure; the Battle Buddy Diet offers both. About the Author: Slay is a 66-year-old practicing, emergency medicine physician in Marina del Rey, California. A graduate of VMI and the Medical College of Virginia, he is a highly decorated, retired colonel who served in the U.S. Army for 21 years. During his active duty service, Slay was a consultant to the surgeon general and was a member of the elite Delta Force during the 1980 hostage rescue attempt in Iran. In 1990, although he had retired from the Army, he reactivated for one year to support Operation Desert Storm.

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Slay is a fellow of the American College of Emergency Medicine, is board-certified in internal medicine and emergency medicine, and is an oral examiner for the American Board of Emergency Medicine. He has been married to Gayne Brenneman, M.D. – his “Battle Buddy” and a practicing cardiac anesthesiologist – for 38 years. They have two children. Slay has written and starred in multiple episodes of the television series “Untold Stories of the ER” and performs medical stand-up comedy as a hobby. The Smithsonian Castle and the Seneca Quarry by Garrett Peck ’90. The History Press, Feb. 6, 2013. ISBN: 978-1609499297. Available via Amazon.com, barnesandnoble. com and historypress.net. British scientist James Smithson left a fortune to the country he so admired but had never visited. His gift founded the Smithsonian Institution and built the Smithsonian Castle. Today, the castle’s distinct Romanesque façade glows warmly against the cool marble that dominates the National Mall. Yet the story of the stones is just as remarkable as that of the building that they grace. It was a boom-bust ride for the Seneca Quarry – the source of the red sandstone. The quarry saw its first developer die, filed for bankruptcy twice, suffered through floods, and contributed to a national scandal that embarrassed the Grant presidency and helped bring down the Freedman’s Bank. This is the untold history of the quarry owners and emancipated slaves who toiled there and the many people who work to this day to save Seneca. Join author Garrett Peck as he traces the unlikely story of the Smithsonian Castle and the Seneca Quarry.

About the Author: Peck is a literary journalist and independent historian. The Smithsonian Castle and the Seneca Quarry is his fourth book and the sequel to The Potomac River: A History and Guide. He also leads tours of the Seneca quarry as well as the Temperance Tour of Prohibition-related Sites in Washington, D.C. He lives in Arlington, Virginia, and can be reached at www.garrettpeck.com. Air Assault: Sharing Military Experience by William G. Crisp ’63. Xlibris Corporation, Sept. 14, 2012. ISBN (hardcover): 978-1-47971049-2; ISBN (softcover): 978-1-4797-10485; or ISBN (ebook): 1-4797-1050-8. Available via Amazon.com. In the introduction to this book, William Crisp explains that he wrote the book 40 years after the Vietnam War to document the human elements of those who fought in that war, including himself, such as the “going out, goin’ home, episodes of fighting, sickness, euphoria, boredom, fear, humor, death …” and other elements of war life that he wants to describe truthfully. He writes that the book is neither a history nor a memoir. “I have tried as best as possible to write about the feeling of the moment, because that is what I believe to be important,” he says. Crisp writes that those who loathe the military and those who place it on an error-free pedestal will be equally challenged by the book’s content. About the Author: Crisp was a rifle platoon leader with the First Cavalry Division (Airmobile) and subsequently served as a U.S. Foreign Service officer in Zagreb, Yugoslavia. He then worked for 25 years as an East European business specialist with the Economist Intelligence Unit, Vienna, Austria. With his wife and daughter, he returned to his home in Staunton and the village of McDowell, Virginia. Four of his novels of suspense have been published.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

INSTITUTE INSTITUTE Funding Approved for Physical Training Facilities

The indoor training facility, accessible via a pedestrian bridge from the South Institute Hill parking area, was designed to complement existing Post architecture.

Funding has been approved for both phases of the $122 million Corps Physical Training Facilities project, which will include the construction of an indoor training facility across Diamond Street from Cameron Hall, as well as the renovation of Cocke Hall and Cormack Hall. “The project has been authorized, and now the next step is lining up the money with the authorization,” said Lt. Col. Dallas Clark ’99, Institute planning officer. The indoor training facility, accessible via a pedestrian bridge from the South Institute Hill parking area, was designed to complement existing Post architecture. The design phases are scheduled to be complete this fall, and ground-

breaking on the new facility will begin in early 2014. Construction of both phases is expected to be complete within three to four years. The first phase will consist of an indoor training facility that will provide the Corps a highly adaptable space to be used by the physical education department, the commandant’s office, ROTC departments and various other groups at VMI, in addition to providing a home to the NCAA track and field teams. Key features of the facility include an indoor track, a high ropes course, an indoor obstacle training course, a weight and cardio training room, and a 35-foot-high climbing wall. The facility will also include locker rooms, offices and parking below the main level.

A high ropes course (lining the ceiling), rock wall (on the left) and track will be among the features of the indoor training facility.

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The facility will be built with sustainability in mind. A green roof on the Main Street side of the building will absorb and filter storm water, while helping to keep the building cool. Efficient lighting and plumbing systems will reduce energy and water usage, and by using a passive downdraft ventilation system, the facility will save an estimated 30 percent in HVAC energy use over that of conventional systems. Phase two of the Corps Physical Training Facilities project will include the renovation of Cormack and Cocke Halls. Cormack Hall will be completely renovated to house the physical education department. The two-story floor plan will accommodate faculty offices, classrooms and laboratories. Space will also be provided to support wrestling and club sports. “This will be a great home for our physical education department,” said Clark. “This is really going to support the new exercise science minor in a strong way, and it’s going to give the program an excellent facility [in which] to meet.” A joint effort of the physical education and biology departments, the exercise science minor will be introduced this fall. Cocke Hall will also undergo a complete modernization and will continue to serve as a resource for cadet fitness. Cocke Hall’s existing resources will be improved and training areas will be expanded. The facility will also support the entire VMI community by providing locker rooms to faculty and staff.

Cormack Hall will be completely modernized to provide a home for VMI’s department of physical education.

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INSTITUTE Master Plan Update Approved

Plans call for moving the main entrance and museum shop from the rear lower level of the Stonewall Jackson House, right, to the Davidson-Tucker House.

An update to the Post Facilities Master Plan was released in January 2013 and projects the needs of the Institute through the year 2020, encompassing over $350 million in improvements. The update, prepared by the Institute Planning Office and approved by the VMI Board of Visitors, presents a prioritized list of proposed improvements along with detailed descriptions of each item. The projects in the plan would be implemented in coming years, pending funding and final approval. In addition to providing planning for new facilities, the update provides plans for maintaining and improving existing ones. Evidence of water infiltrating the Old and New Barracks parapets was found during a study done in 2012, and corrective action is being taken to prevent further damage. That work started this summer and is likely to continue through subsequent summers. A massive update and modernization of Post infrastructure is being considered in three phases and would encompass a variety of systems, including electrical distribution, water distribution, natural gas, fiber optic, sanitary and storm water systems. The improvements would provide a greater level of reliability and efficiency for the users of all VMI facilities. “The Post infrastructure project is the next really big thing we want to get done,” said Lt. Col. Dallas Clark ’99, Institute planning officer. The combined cost of the three phases is currently projected at over $40 million.

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In line with initiatives to provide the Corps of Cadets with enhanced physical training facilities (see article on previous page), an indoor aquatic center is being considered. That facility would include a 50-meter swimming pool, a diving well and spectator space. It would likely be located at Lackey Park or on South Post. The new facility would take pressure off of Clark King Pool, which is becoming insufficient to meet the needs of cadets. “We have mandatory swimming; we have ROTC scuba training. There are a lot of groups using the pool, and it’s full all day long,” said Clark. Another priority item involves changes to the way visitors access the Stonewall Jackson House. The proposed plan shifts the main entrance and gift shop from the rear lower level of the Jackson House to the first floor of the neighboring Davidson-Tucker House. This will allow the Jackson House to be entirely devoted to exhibit space, while improving visitor access and orientation. “The Jackson House has tons of artifacts, but the space constraints make it difficult to show [the artifacts],” said Clark. “This will allow for more exhibits in the Jackson House, as well as a hands-on orientation.” Other priorities include the renovation of Preston Library, Moody Hall and the Old Hospital (currently housing the chaplain’s office and international programs), in addition to improvements to the heat plant, academic services and the Virginia Museum of the Civil War at New Market.

Siegel ’65 Gives Daniels Ceremony Address On March 6, 2013, C. Louis Siegel Jr. ’65 addressed the class of 2016 during the annual ceremony honoring Jonathan Myrick Daniels ’61. The ceremony, which took place in Jackson Memorial Hall, reminds cadets of the personal sacrifice Daniels made when, as a seminarian and voter registration volunteer in Alabama in 1965, he was shot and killed as he protected an African-American child. Siegel, who is president of the class of ’65, has for the past decade served as Dometic LLC senior vice president for environmental marketing and sales and strategic development in the U.S. heavy truck market. He holds a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering and a master of business administration degree from the University of Virginia’s Darden School. He served a tour with the U.S. Army 1st Infantry Division during the Vietnam War.

C. Louis Siegel Jr. ’65 addressed the class of 2016 during the annual ceremony honoring Jonathan Myrick Daniels ’61. A ceremony is held each March on or near Daniels’ birthday (March 20) as a reminder to cadets that “it is possible to embody and display heroic qualities of honor, loyalty and devotion at any age and in any circumstances.” VMI photo by Kevin Remington.

Cadets carried a wreath to place in front of the Jonathan Daniels plaque in Daniels Courtyard.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

INSTITUTE Marshall ’65 Donates Daniels ’61 Cape to VMI Museum of the connection and carefully maintained the artifact. “When the church declared Jonathan Daniels to be a martyr to the faith, I began to think that this wasn’t really mine. [I was] simply the custodian,” said Marshall. He drove from Texas to bring the cape to the VMI Museum, ensuring that it would arrive safely. “It’s appropriate that the cape be brought back here to be put in the custody of VMI,” Marshall said. “As I see it [from an historical perspective], VMI has stood for inculcating integrity, honor and fidelity. There are few examples among VMI alumni who exemplify that more completely than Jonathan Daniels.” Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, right, accepted Jonathan Daniels’ ’61 cape from John Mac Marshall ’65. VMI photo by John Robertson IV.

A first class cape owned by Jonathan M. Daniels ’61 was donated to the VMI Museum by John M. Marshall ’65 in a ceremony held Feb. 19, 2013. The cape will be on display in the VMI Museum, providing an opportunity to share the story of Daniels’ time at VMI and his role in the civil rights movement. “VMI provided Daniels a forum in which he really examined his own character and his purpose in life,” said Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System. “VMI was very much a challenge for Daniels, and he persevered in his academics and was voted valedictorian by his class.” In 1965, while attending seminary, Daniels took part in the civil rights movement, spending the spring and summer months serving African-American communities in Alabama. After spending six days in jail for picketing whites-only stores, Daniels was shot and killed Aug. 20 while shielding an African-American girl [Ruby Sales] from a shotgun blast. “Daniels saw what was right. He did it, and he paid for it with his life,” said Marshall. “When you stop and think about who this cape belonged to and the slice of history [of which it is] a part, the responsibility is enormous, and you have to be sure that what you’re doing with it is the right thing.” Bringing the cape back to the Institute was a natural choice, and its presence will aid in relating Daniels’ story to future generations of cadets. “We’re working on an exhibit on the contributions that alumni have made in the military and civilian world, and of course, Jonathan Daniels is a significant part of that story,” said

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Gibson. “The display will remind cadets of today that these people, who went on to do great things, started out just where they are.” While VMI owns a few of the capes, which remain in use as a cold-weather uniform item for officer of the guard and officer of the day, the capes were once widely used by first class cadets. “Its heyday was in the 1920s; there’s no doubt about it. Virtually every first classman would have had one,” said Gibson. “After World War II, the cape became less and less common in the Corps. It was still an authorized uniform item, but you had to get one that was handed down from previous generations.” By the time Marshall matriculated, the capes had become rare but were still a prized possession among the first class cadets who were able to obtain them – used. “It was a very fashionable uniform item for first classmen,” said Gibson. “They could wear it in lieu of their overcoats for social events. It was a prized possession of first classmen; it was a symbol of their achievement.” Cognizant of the rarity of the capes, Marshall and a classmate, Lou Siegel ’65, split the cost of a cape shortly after matriculating. By the end of his fourth class year, Marshall had bought his Brother Rat’s share in the cape and was looking forward to the day when he could wear it. “I was a Rat when I bought it, so I had it hanging up for three years, not wearing it until I had earned that right,” said Marshall. “It was sort of betting on the future, being an optimist.” Jonathan Daniels happened to be the former owner of that cape, and while Daniels and Marshall never met, Marshall remained aware

Daniels Selected for Cathedral Sculpture The likeness of the late Jonathan Daniels ’61 has been selected as the next sculpture to be carved for the Human Rights Porch at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. Selection for portrayal in the iconography of the Human Rights Porch reflects significant, profound and life-changing actions in support of human rights, social justice, civil rights and the welfare of other human beings. The sculpture project is in the planning stages.

Civil rights activist Jonathan M. Daniels ’61 and Rachel West, with whose family he lived in Selma, Alabama, in the mid 1960s. Daniels was killed on Aug. 20, 1965, in Hayneville, Alabama, when he put himself in front of a teenage African-American girl, Ruby Sales, who was being threatened by a deputy sheriff with a shotgun.

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INSTITUTE Alumni Recognize the Need to Be Ambassadors African-American Alumni Return to Post to Talk About Recruitment

Dick Valentine ’72 addressed cadets and alumni at the conference banquet.

In 1968, five African-Americans matriculated with the class of 1972. Three of the five returned March 1-2, 2013, to share their stories and their ideas about recruiting with fellow African-American alumni, current AfricanAmerican cadets and VMI staff. From the start, the enthusiasm was palpable. Friday afternoon briefings on recruiting, admissions, financial aid, alumni support and the general state of VMI today, as well as a cadet panel Saturday morning, elicited questions and comments. Alumni spoke of their engagement, noting the need to be ambassadors and recruiters and recognizing the opportunity that VMI had offered them. Their own successful careers, they said, started at VMI. That engagement is exactly what conference organizers were hoping for. They hope that, eventually, each VMI Alumni Association chapter will have an African-American contact who can follow up on VMI contacts with prospective cadets. They hope also to see alumni forming an advisory committee to help create strategies for more effective recruitment. More than 30 alumni attended, representing 16 classes and each of the four decades since 1972. “The broad cross-section that we got is amazing,” said Adam Volant ’88, executive vice president of The VMI Alumni Association. “We not only drew the older classes; we drew the younger ones, too. It’s very encouraging.” Although the conference was well attended, overall alumni numbers speak to the reason for the conference. Of the 21,000 living alumni, only 585 are African-American, said Volant. From 1997, when reliable records about diversity first became available, through 2016, the average number of African-Americans has

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been 25 per class, with 70 to 80 in the entire Corps. As the classes and the Corps have grown larger, however, the overall percentage of African-American cadets has not increased. “That is not a trend that is going up,” said Col. Vern Beitzel ’72, director of Admissions, in his presentation. Discussion at the conference suggests a change in the future, though. “It’s been a fantastic opportunity – great representation from alumni and great suggestions,” commented Beitzel, whose class of 1972 included the five African-American pioneers. “This is probably long overdue.”

circumstance to come here, but once chosen, we had an opportunity,” he said. “That opportunity was either fight or flight. We chose to stay. We had a lot of people looking at what we did. I didn’t want to disappoint. I didn’t want to disappoint my family, my neighborhood. … We learned from our Brother Rats who were going through the same things.” He noted, in fact, that the stresses for him and the other four were similar to the stresses every cadet experiences, as are the benefits, and he offered advice to the cadets in the audience. “This experience is an experience that will lead you in life,” he said. “The ability to know that I’m accountable for whatever decisions I make – it came from here. It’s something I hold near and dear to my heart. I love this place. I really do.” In his presentation, Cadet Fredrick Walker ’15 entertained the group with the story of how he ended up at VMI, heading for the Army chaplaincy program. The dinner conversation and the presentations were a rich experience for the cadets. “I wish we had this when I was a cadet,” said Maj. Chris Perry ’05, assistant commandant of cadets. “I know that this has changed the mindset of these cadets, to see what their future can be through these alumni.”

Tamara R. Bean ’04 talked with Cadet Nneka Okani ’16 during the banquet. Both photos by VMI, Julie Rivera.

That evening, nearly 60 African-American cadets gathered to share a meal and stories with the alumni. Dick Valentine ’72 told the audience that VMI had not been the first choice of the first African-Americans to matriculate, but all knew they wanted an education – something that VMI could offer them. “The thing that I want to impart upon you is that we were chosen by

Cadet Nicole Augins ’14, an Arabic major who hopes to commission in the U.S. Air Force, had the opportunity to talk with Capt. Katrina Powell ’06, who teaches at the Air Force Academy. She was surprised and encouraged to see two colonels among the alumni. “I really liked interacting with them,” she said, and “seeing that VMI gave them a pathway for the future to be successful.”

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INSTITUTE VMI Honor Conference Building and Strengthening Honor Codes: Inspiring Honor and Respect On March 4, 2013, “Frontline” producer Martin Smith opened the 2013 Honor Conference at VMI with a discussion of how truth-seeking journalism can encourage more honorable behavior by public officials. Smith, a 28-year veteran of broadcast journalism, is a past winner of the coveted Edward R. Murrow Award from the Overseas Press Club, as well as an Emmy. He and his production company, RAINMedia, have most recently been in the news for their January 2013 production, “The Untouchables,” an expose of the U.S. Justice Department’s failure to prosecute the Wall Street bankers involved in the 2008 financial crisis. This year’s honor conference is a follow-up to the 2012 Biennial Leadership Conference, held at the same time last year, which was entitled, “Cheating, Lying and Honor in America’s High Schools, Colleges and Universities.” The 2013 gathering attracted more than 270 students, teachers and faculty members, with roughly two-thirds of them coming from high schools across Virginia. (See sidebar article on this subject.) The conference was entitled, “Building and Strengthening Honor Codes: Inspiring Honor and Respect.” In his remarks, entitled “Deciding Your Story,” Smith didn’t often use the word “honor,” but he did talk about how a lack of honor’s close cousin, integrity, has manifested itself in the world today. Much of Smith’s work as a documentary producer has revolved around exposing a lack of integrity among public officials. Notable situations he’s investigated in his almost three decades of work include the George W. Bush administration’s statements about the presence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq and the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s mishandling of Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath. Producing films that bring ethically questionable behavior to light isn’t just a game of “gotcha,” for the purpose of embarrassment, Smith explained.

“Journalists are obligated to reveal things as they are, so people like you can be nudged and prodded to go out and make the world a better place,” Smith told his audience. “Journalists, along with the First Amendment protections that sanction free speech, are part and parcel of what make the world a better place,” he continued. “So much of TV is a vast wasteland of screaming idiots, but imagine a world without the news. What would you know?” Smith spent much time discussing how investigative journalism can identify problems before they explode onto the national or international stage – but only if people pay attention. As one example, Smith mentioned his 1998 work, “Hunting bin Laden,” which was meant to highlight the threat posed by the al-Qaeda leader. Smith recalled his producers at “Frontline” as saying, “Why should we run this? Who is this guy?” In the days after Sept. 11, 2001, Smith received inquiries about getting a copy of the film from both then-Vice President Dick Cheney and England’s Queen Elizabeth II. “For me, it’s most satisfying when the reporting we do has made a clear difference, when it’s helped people to understand our world, not through telling them how to think, but by giving them the information they need to make their own informed choices,” Smith commented. Contrary to popular perceptions, Smith said that he does not approach the news with a political agenda – and he feels that reporting is a skill in decline, one in danger of being replaced by biased, blog-based punditry. In terms of news choices, Smith offered the analogy of food choices. “We can eat junk food, or we can eat real food,” he noted. Smith concluded, “We [journalists] remain aggressive and we remain disruptive. … We live in a democracy. Good journalism should rattle people, make people upset enough to go out and make things better, to be involved citizens and care, and to go out and vote. After all,

“Frontline” producer Martin Smith opened the 2013 Honor Conference at VMI’s Center for Leadership and Ethics. VMI photo by Julie Rivera.

government belongs to us, or at least it should.” Smith’s talk was followed by a short vignette, “Caught in the Act or Not?” played out by VMI cadets Louis Burton ’16 and Sarah McGinnis ’16. In the vignette, Burton and Ford commiserated about their overwhelming workloads and agreed to share notes and “help” each other through a difficult semester. The dramatization was meant to leave the audience with a question to ponder: had Burton and Ford crossed the line when it came to honor? Attendees were invited to think about that question in terms of their own school’s honor code in a 40-minute breakout session. At the end of the breakout session, they gathered again in Gillis Theater to hear from representatives of three schools – The Citadel, the University of Mary Washington, and Washington and Lee University – talk about what would happen at each school should such a situation be reported. The 2013 Honor Conference continued with more vignettes and discussion of honor codes today. On the second day, there was a morning session on due process, consistency and accountability, followed by a variety of workshop sessions and a talk, “Sportsmanship, Citizenship and Ethics,” by Edward H. Jurith, U.S. representative to the Foundation Board of the World Anti-Doping Agency. The conference adjourned at 4:00 p.m. on March 5, 2013. Editor’s Note: The articles and photos in the Institute section are provided by VMI Communications and Marketing.

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INSTITUTE Ramsey ’72 Named President of VMI BOV

Regimental Band and Pipes Win Parade at New Orleans Mardi Gras

George P. “Pete” Ramsey III ’72 of Lynchburg, Virginia, was elected president of the VMI Board of Visitors at the board’s meeting in May 2013. Ramsey’s term began July 1st, when he took the place of Paul D. Fraim ’71, mayor of the city of Norfolk. Fraim completed a two-year term Ramsey ’72 as board president and will continue as a member of the board for another year, when he completes his second term. “Mayor Fraim has done a wonderful job as president of the board for the past two years,” said Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent. “His insight, leadership and wisdom have had a major impact on the achievement of the Institute’s objectives and have postured us for the future. I will miss him. “Mr. Ramsey brings extensive experience in business and service to this important position,” Peay added. “His love of VMI is evidenced by his long involvement in many activities related to the Institute.” Ramsey is a partner in the Counts Realty & Auction Group, one of the largest full-service auction companies on the East Coast. Previously, he was president of Taylor Ramsey Corp., a lumber products manufacturing company headquartered in Lynchburg. Since receiving his bachelor of science degree from VMI in 1972, Ramsey has continued his involvement with the Institute. He served on the board of governors of the VMI Keydet Club and was a member of the VMI Athletic Council. More recently, he has served on the board of trustees of the VMI Foundation, three years as its president. He is currently a member of the VMI Foundation Investment Committee. An All Southern Conference and Honorable Mention All-American football player during his cadetship, Ramsey was inducted into the VMI Sports Hall of Fame in 2005. In addition to his service to VMI, Ramsey has served on the board of trustees and as chairman of the board of the James River Day School, a private elementary day school. He has been a member of the board of advisers of the Lynchburg College School of Business and a member of the board of Junior Achievement of Lynchburg. He is a charter member of the Lynchburg Regional Airport Commission and was chairman of the Virginia Aviation Board, which advises the governor of Virginia, his secretary of transportation and the director of aviation on matters relating to aviation in the commonwealth of Virginia. He lives in Huddleston, Virginia, with his wife, Margaret.

The VMI Regimental Band and Pipes and Drums travelled to New Orleans, Louisiana, in February to participate in the 2013 Mardi Gras celebrations. Transporting the cadets and staff required four flights from Richmond to New Orleans – provided by KC-135 Stratotanker planes from the 434th Air Refueling Wing at Grissom Air Force Base, Indiana – and a 28-hour bus ride for one third of the band. A bus carrying 46 cadets and staff departed Thursday night, Feb. 7th, for an overnight 14-hour bus ride to New Orleans, and the two airlift planes followed on Friday, Feb. 8th, out of the Richmond airport. The Endymion Parade, in which the band was scheduled to perform, was held on Saturday, Feb. 9th, beginning at City Park. The band performed just behind the parade grand marshal, Kelly Clarkson, noted pop singer and actress. The 115 cadets and staff comprised the “Queen’s Float” band, as they marched the incredible, 7-andone-half-mile Endymion Parade route, the largest of the Mardi Gras parades in New Orleans. An estimated crowd of 400,000 watched as the band completed the parade in four hours and 26 minutes, culminating in the Louisiana Superdome. The Institute was awarded the Harry Mendelsohn Trophy as the Best Military Unit out of seven other units, including The Citadel, Duquesne and several ROTC units. A little known fact, however, is that, only one day before departure, the band’s trip was nearly cancelled. Late that afternoon, Col. John Brodie (Hon), VMI’s music director, was notified by the executive officer of the U.S.S. Mesa Verde, LPD-19, that, due to engine difficulty, the Naval ship, which was to be used for billeting by the band, was stopped indefinitely in Florida en route to New Orleans. The cadets were due to fly out the next day with no place to stay when they arrived. Immediately, Brodie was making anxious phone calls to Louisiana, Mississippi and any other place that could possibly offer billets for 116 people with less than a day’s notice. Initially, the best he could find was an empty hanger at the air station in Gulfport, Mississippi, which could hold Army cots inside and port-a-potties outside. The principal of the Jesuit High School in New Orleans, Michael Giambelluca, saved the day. Brodie said, “Without hesitation, Mike accepted our situation and offered his facilities to the cadets. We were really stuck, and Jesuit High School literally answered our prayers.” Brodie found out about the school through alumnus Lt. Colonel Donnie Hassletine ’97, USMC, who was a student at Jesuit before matriculating at VMI in 1994. Hassletine was Band Company commander in 1997 and the founder of the VMI Pipe Band. The band returned on Sunday, Feb. 10th, via flights and a bus which departed with 42 cadets directly after the parade Saturday and arrived at VMI at 1500 on Sunday. In total, the unit travelled over 1,000 miles in three days, marched over seven miles in front of almost half a million people and placed first out of eight military units in their category – a fine accomplishment for the Institute.

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VMI Regimental Band and Music Director Col. John Brodie (Hon), far left, with band members at the parade. Note the Kelly Clarkson float in the background.

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INSTITUTE Cadet’s Father Carries VMI Flag to Kilimanjaro

Frank Longaker, father of Cadet Nicholas Longaker ’14, proudly held a VMI flag atop Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak at 19,342 feet. The elder Longaker, president of American National University in Salem, Virginia, is a former Special Forces officer and Vietnam veteran who climbed the peak as part of a group. Photo courtesy Charles J. Steenburgh Jr. ’86.

Inman ’86 Named New Chief of Staff Army Col. James P. Inman ’86 has been named the Institute’s next chief of staff. Inman, a 1986 graduate of VMI, is retiring from a 27-year Army career. “Col. Inman has extensive leadership and staff experience,” said Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent. “He has been involved in officer professional education as a senior manager, including as chief of staff of the Army’s Cadet Command; he served as a leader of troops in combat; and he has commanded the Warrior Transition Brigade at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. All these experiences provide him with a unique set of skills that will prove beneficial to VMI.” Inman is replacing Col. Jeffrey H. Curtis ’79, who is the new executive assistant to the superintendent and secretary of the VMI Board of Visitors. Curtis assumed that position from Col. Michael M. Strickler ’71, who retired on June 28 after 36 years of service to VMI. Inman joined the staff in June, working Inman ’86 during a short overlap period with Curtis. In addition to a bachelor’s degree in English from VMI, Inman holds master’s degrees from Louisiana State University and the National War College.

Museum Exhibit Honors Last Days of “Stonewall” Jackson The VMI museum system is sponsoring a On Sunday, May 19, at 3:15 p.m. in Jackson the Stonewall Jackson House while an underseries of events observing the 150th anniver- Memorial Hall, National Park Service historian graduate at Washington and Lee University sary of the last days of VMI faculty member Frank O’Reilly presented a lecture on Jack- in Lexington. and Confederate Civil War hero Gen. T.J. son’s final hours and last journey to Lexington. Located in Jackson Memorial Hall at VMI, “Stonewall” Jackson. That hour was chosen because Jackson died at the VMI Museum is free and open to the public A special exhibit, “Fourteen Days in May: 3:15 p.m. on a Sunday, May 15, 1863. from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. T.J. Jackson’s Wounding, Death and Burial,” O’Reilly works at the Fredericksburg and The Stonewall Jackson House Museum is opened in the VMI Museum on May 1st Spotsylvania National Military Park and lives located at 8 E. Washington Street, Lexington, and will run through September 2013. The at Guinea Station in Caroline County, very near and is open Monday through Saturday from 9 exhibit features seldom-seen items from the the site of Jackson’s death. He volunteered at a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. collections of the Stonewall Jackson House and VMI Museum related to Jackson’s death. In addition to Jackson’s bullet-scarred raincoat, the exhibit features his bloodstained handkerchief and greenery plucked from his casket. Also on exhibit is This surgeon’s kit, dating from the 1850s, bea surgeon’s needle used Cadet Trevor Tafolla ’14 adjusted Jacklonged to Hunter McGuire, the surgeon who in the amputation of Jackson’s raincoat to display the hole made by son’s arm and a surgeon’s treated Stonewall Jackson following his woundthe bullet that struck Jackson’s left arm. ing near Chancellorsville. VMI photo by John kit owned by Jackson’s Robertson IV. VMI photo by John Robertson IV. doctor, Hunter McGuire.

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ATHLETICS ATHLETICS White ’65 to Retire as VMI Athletic Director Donny White ’65 has announced that he will other major projects in development. retire as VMI’s director of athletics effective “I have been blessed, more than words can Nov. 15, 2013. describe, to have been associated with VMI White has been associated with VMI athletics most of my professional career,” said White. for 35 years – as a cadet-athlete, assistant and “I am proud of the quality and dedication of head coach, and chief athletic administrator. the men and women in the athletic department. His 15-year tenure as athletic director is the secThe best part has always been the VMI cadets, ond longest in Institute history, next to Blandy and I will treasure those relationships always.” Clarkson (1926-46). White’s leadership guided Prior to taking the VMI athletic director post the Keydet athletic program through one of the in May 1998, White compiled a distinguished most challenging periods of NCAA athletics. VMI coaching career in two sports, spanning White supervised ambitious capital improve15 years. He joined the football staff in 1971 ments to athletic facilities, the development and helped lead the Keydets to two Southern of women’s athletic programs and the move Conference Championships and a state chamof all sports conference affiliation, and he pionship. He coached the defensive backs to a assisted with securing adequate funding for a No. 1 national ranking in pass defense in 1975. growing athletic program during a period of He served as VMI co-defensive coordinator White ’65 fiscal constraint. from 1976-80 and had the Southern Confer“Coach White understands the complex ence’s top-rated defense in 1977. pressures that affect student-athletes competing at this level, In fall 1981, White became VMI head baseball coach and, compounded by the demands and responsibility of being a in his first year, was named Southern Conference Co-Coach cadet. VMI is not an easy college,” of the Year. Over six years, White said Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, guided the program to conference superintendent. “Under his leaderand state competitiveness, playing ship, every athlete is truly a cadet, in the SoCon Championship game and every one of them is dedicated in 1987. to winning the VMI way. We will White is a 1965 graduate of VMI miss his steady hand and direction.” with a bachelor’s degree in civil During White’s tenure, VMI was engineering. As a cadet, he was a presented the Big South SportsmanDistinguished Military Student and ship Award an unprecedented six was awarded the VMI Intercollegiate consecutive years. White’s basketball Athletic Award his senior year. White and baseball hires are now VMI’s allco-captained the 1964 VMI football time winning coaches in those sports. team and was selected All-Southern He guided VMI in the selection and Conference in baseball for three building of seven women’s sports consecutive years as a shortstop. He with only 160 women in the Corps. was inducted into the VMI Sports VMI now fields 18 intercollegiate Hall of Fame in 1975. sports that include nearly 30 percent After graduation from VMI, White of the Corps of 1,600 cadets. was commissioned as a field artilOver the past decade, both the lery officer in the U.S. Army and football and baseball programs have served a tour of duty in Vietnam. seen their facilities significantly His decorations include the Bronze upgraded with the additions of P. Star, Purple Heart and Air Medal Wesley Foster Jr. ’56 Stadium and with four oak leaf clusters. In his first year as VMI’s head baseball coach, White was named Southern ConGray-Minor Stadium. Additional A national search for a successor ference Co-Coach of the Year and, over six athletic improvements continued is being conducted over the sumyears, guided the program to conference with fields accessible for athletic use mer months with an announcement and state competitiveness, playing in the added to the North Post complex and planned in early fall 2013. SoCon Championship game in 1987. 180

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ATHLETICS Cowart ’08 and Kitur ’11 Work Toward World Championships Felix Kitur ’11 and Donnie Cowart ’08 opened their campaigns to qualify for this year’s World Championships on April 28, 2013, doing so at the Payton Jordan Cardinal Invitational in Palo Alto, California. Both came up just short but posted worthy times on which they can build. Cowart was chasing the 8:26 A standard in the 3K steeple but came up just shy of the B in finishing ninth with a 8:32.84 clocking. The top four in Cowart’s race all achieved that A standard. Kitur, meanwhile, was second in an 800-meters that saw no one hit the A mark of 1:45.30. Kitur crossed the line in 1:47.28. Fans should note that, unlike Olympic qualifications, it is possible to advance to the World Championships with the B standard, but only one such runner can do so per running event. The 2013 World Championships are scheduled for Aug. 10-18, 2013, in Moscow, Russia.

Keydet Baseball

Rob Dickinson ’13, above, had a banner year in Keydet baseball, including threatening the .400 mark in batting average and posting a 27-game streak of reaching base, VMI’s longest since 2009. Matt Winn ’14 also enjoyed a strong season and was named to the Johnny Bench Award Watch List prior to the campaign.

2013-Issue 3

Harris ’96 Elevated to Defensive Coordinator Gregory W. Harris ’96, who has served on the VMI coaching staff the last seven seasons mostly as outside linebackers coach, will assume the role of defensive coordinator along with his defensive position responsibilities in fall 2013. Harris was promoted to the post by Head Coach Sparky Woods after former defensive coordinator Jeff Farrington was named head football coach at North Greenville. Harris is believed to be the first VMI alumnus to hold the defensive coordinator position in school program history. During his tenure, Harris, who is one of two VMI alumni on the current football coaching staff, helped coach former VMI standout Tommy Lloyd ’07 to first-team all-conference and second-team all-VaSID honors following the 2007 season.

Harris was a four-year letterman and three-year starter with the Keydets and had the reputation as one of the team’s best blockers in Coach Bill Stewart’s two-tight end alignment that helped running back Thomas A. Haskins Jr. ’97 set a new Division I-AA career rushing mark. As a receiver, Harris was equally effective, as he caught 47 passes for 431 yards and three touchdowns during his Keydet career. He served as a team captain for the 1996 season, was a Dean’s List student and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in business and economics. After graduation, Harris went into private business for six years, earning a Mark of Excellence Award while working for Hughes Supply, Inc.

VMI Men’s Soccer Program – 2013 Schedule AUG. 16 AUG. 21 AUG. 30 SEPT. 3 SEPT. 6 SEPT. 11 SEPT. 14 SEPT. 17 SEPT. 2O SEPT. 24 SEPT. 28 OCT. 5 OCT. 11 OCT. 15 OCT. 19 OCT. 26 OCT. 30 NOV. 2 NOV. 6 NOV. 9

vs. BLUEFIELD COLLEGE (Exhibition) vs. APP STATE (Exhibition) vs. ARMY vs. CAMPBELL* vs. NJIT vs. JMU vs. GEORGE WASHINGTON vs. MARSHALL vs. ODU vs. LIBERTY* vs. WINTHROP* vs. PC* vs. COASTAL CAROLINA* vs. VIRGINIA TECH vs. GARDNER WEBB* vs. UNC ASHEVILLE* vs. RADFORD* vs. HOWARD vs. LONGWOOD* vs. HIGH POINT* (senior day)

Big South Conference Championship NOV. 12 at HIGHER SEED NOV. 15 at BRYAN PARK, NC NOV. 17 at BRYAN PARK, NC

(H) (H) (A) (A) (H) (A) (A) (A) (A) (A) (H) (A) (A) (A) (H) (H) (A) (A) (A) (H)

2 p.m. 1 p.m. TBD 7 p.m. 5 p.m. 7 p.m. 2 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 6 p.m. 11 a.m. 1 p.m. 4 p.m. 7 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 2 p.m. 7 p.m. 3 p.m. 7 p.m. 1 p.m.

QUARTER FINAL SEMI FINAL FINAL

(H) – Home game (A) – Away game * Big South Conference game

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ATHLETICS Future for Men’s Lacrosse Looks Bright While it may not have been the season that the team wanted, the future looks bright for the Keydets. Boasting the youngest roster in the country, with 73 percent of the team comprised of freshmen or sophomores, the Keydets got over half of its point total from the youngsters. The team got a combined 22 goals and eight assists from sophomore Mike DeBlasio and freshman Gage Snowbarger, both of whom capped the season with seven-game point streaks. At the end of VMI’s regular season, the Keydets were ranked No. 1 in the country (out of 63 teams) in saves per game, stopping 15.23 opponent attempts per outing, anchored by senior Matt Lindemann, who was third in the nation with 14.77 saves per game. Next season, the team will enter a new era, as the program transitions from the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference to the Atlantic Sun. Joining VMI in the A-Sun will be Jacksonville University, Mercer University, Furman University, High Point University and University of Richmond.

Sophomore Mike DeBlasio capped the season with a seven-game point streak.

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Men’s Swimming and Diving Team Finishes Fourth

The men’s swimming and diving team finished fourth at this year’s CCSA Championships. Freshman Christian Shaner broke two school records at the meet, while Connor McMahon broke the VMI mark in the 100 free. Pictured above is team member Marcus Sutter.

Jones ’16 Wins High Jump at Outdoor Meet

Avion Jones ’16, above, won the high jump at the conference outdoor meet, VMI’s first victory in the event outdoors since 2005. Late in the season, Jones was ranked as high as 19th in the region after helping the Keydets to a fifthplace finish outdoors, the same finish the team posted at the indoor meet. Antonio Wood ’13 scored 17 points at the outdoor meet and, indoors, won the heptathlon title.

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ATHLETICS Okoye Receives Three More Awards Senior forward Stan Okoye (Raleigh, North Carolina) added three more accolades to his decorated VMI basketball career in awards that were presented during spring 2013. He was named Okoye ’13 first team All-State as selected by the Virginia Sports Information Directors Association and was named honorable mention All-America by the Associated Press. In March 2013, Okoye was named to the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Division I District 3 first team. He was one of 242 players from around the nation honored among 24 districts and was one of six players selected from the Big South Conference (BSC) for the first and second District 3 squads. District 3 honorees are chosen from players who attend BSC and Atlantic Sun Conference member institutions. Capping a standout VMI basketball career, Okoye led the BSC in scoring (21.5) and rebounding (9.4) and was named 2012-13 Big South Player of the Year and first team All-Conference, after garnering preseason BSC Player of the Year honors in fall 2012. He led the league in defensive rebounds (6.8) and was named Big South Player of the Week five times during the season and also was named to the BSC AllAcademic team. The economics and business major posted 12 double-double games on the season and produced eight 30+-point games and 17 games of 20 points or more. He became only the fifth player in Big South history to lead the league in scoring and rebounding the same season. Okoye also participated in the prestigious Portsmouth (Virginia) Invitational Tournament in early April 2013. 2013-Issue 3

Rifle Reaps Postseason MAC Awards

The Keydet rifle programs earned postseason awards and designations for the 2012-13 season.

The VMI rifle programs earned several postseason awards and designations during spring 2013 for their 2012-13 season performance. Head Coach Lt. Col. Bill Bither was named MAC Coach of the Year for his teams’ steady improvement and improving scores in the highly competitive conference. Bither, who completed his second year as head coach of the VMI men’s, women’s and mixed rifle squads, also served as meet director when the Institute successfully hosted the 2013 MAC Rifle Championships at Kilbourne Hall in February 2013. Overall, VMI earned three championships in designated divisions, three second

place finishes and three most improved citations. The Keydets also posted the averaged highest score in smallbore among ROTC institutions. Several Keydet individuals earned spots on the MAC postseason squads. Named to the MAC All-Conference ROTC smallbore first team were senior Kevin Jones, senior Marie Mallet, junior Justin Vietinghoff and senior William Splees. Earning second team MAC All-Conference ROTC smallbore were sophomore Jeremy Bolden, senior Joshua Lawrence, sophomore Connor Sullivan and sophomore Jacob Freeman. Named honorable mention AllMAC were senior Kayla Johnson and sophomore Joshua Farry.

VMI Rifle Programs: 2013-14 Schedule Sept. 21, 2013 Oct. 5, 2013 Oct. 6, 2013 Oct. 12. 2013 Oct. 26, 2013 Nov. 2, 2013 Nov. 9, 2013 Dec. 7, 2013 Jan. 25, 2014 Feb. 22, 2014 Mar. 1, 2014

Citadel John Jay SUNY and USCG Loyola and IUP North Georgia Morehead USP PENN State Citadel Sectional/Qualifier MAC Championship

Lexington, VA Annapolis, MD Annapolis, MD Lexington, VA Dahlonega, GA Lexington, VA Philadelphia, PA Lexington, VA Charleston, SC TBA New London, CT 183

ATHLETICS Women’s Swimming and Diving Team Sets 10 New Records

A Year of Firsts for Women’s Water Polo

The women’s swimming and diving team set 10 new school records this year, including three individual varsity marks. Two of those (100 back, 200 IM) were set by junior Justina Dunne, pictured above, while Ally Van Valen ’16 broke the school record in the 500 free.

Women’s Track and Field Comes Close to All-time High Celine Lazzaro ’15 is a member of the women’s water polo team.

It was a year of firsts for the VMI women’s water polo team. The Keydets hosted their first-ever Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) weekend, with 12 league games contested at Clark King Pool in midMarch 2013. Over the course of that weekend, VMI picked up its first-ever conference win, taking down St. Francis Brooklyn 10-9 in the final game of the weekend. Not only did VMI get its first MAAC win, but the Keydets collected their first win over a California school as well, besting Occidental 9-8 in early March during the team’s West Coast spring break trip. Jenna Moye ’13 was the mile winner at the Big South Indoor Championships and helped the Keydet women’s track and field team come within four points of their all-time high at the conference’s outdoor meet. The team finished ninth at both meets and saw Kate Collins ’13 win her second career pole vault conference title at the outdoor championships.

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Editor’s Note: Unless stated otherwise, the articles and photos in the Athletics section are provided by the VMI Sports Information Office.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI INC. VMIFOUNDATION, FOUNDATION, INC. Message from the VMI Foundation CEO by Brian Scott Crockett

This past April, two events occurred on Post that represented the many ways that people serve VMI. First, The VMI Alumni Association and the VMI Foundation hosted the Volunteer Leadership Conference. Drawn from across the country and from numerous decades, the attendees included both class agents and leaders of various chapters of the Alumni Association, and they received intensive training in how to better serve their classes and chapters, as well as extensive information about VMI’s current condition and its plans for the future. Right after these men and women left Post, VMI kicked off what some now call Spring Reunion Week. Earlier in the week, older classes had their turn, such as the class of 1943 and the class of 1958, which already had celebrated their 50th Reunions. Starting on Thursday of that week, the Institute welcomed back the classes of 1963, 1973, 1983 and 1993. On the morning of Saturday, April 27th, during the traditional reunion parade, the class of 1963 presented the proceeds of its 50th Reunion Campaign, a record-setting $20,080, 063.63 in gifts and commitments. Of course, the class of 1963 and the volunteer leaders of our classes and our chapters are not alone in serving VMI. Thousands of alumni and friends of the Institute have devoted themselves to helping VMI become a stronger college, as it preserves those elements that make the education it offers so extraordinary and so effective. Just as there is no single path to having a good cadetship (just ask any alumnus or the parents of any cadet or alumnus), there is no single manner in which to serve VMI well. However, those who do serve the Institute well can sum up their service in three words: time, talent and treasure. Think about it. Whenever anyone is helping VMI, he or she is giving a certain measure of all three things. Class agents spend hours contacting their Brother Rats, asking them to send in class notes, attend 2013-Issue 3

a reunion or make a gift in support of VMI. Successful entrepreneurs provide advice and guidance to cadets who aspire to careers in business and finance. Alumni serve their chapters of The VMI Alumni Association or participate as volunteer leaders for one of the VMI Alumni Agencies, devoting hours of their time. Parents of cadets become members of the Parents Council. In all these cases, these people are giving something of their time and talents. Which bring us to treasure. It’s a fact that not everyone can take time out of their lives to serve the VMI family. Younger people are raising families and establishing themselves in their careers. Those alumni serving in our country’s armed forces, especially those serving overseas, often have little or no way of being actively involved in supporting VMI. Middleaged alumni often have the responsibility of dealing with aging parents or running a business. Finally, a good many alumni are separated from VMI by too much time and distance to perform any service to it. While most of those who do give of their time and talents also give of their treasure, for many members of the VMI family making a donation is the only way they can give something of themselves to VMI. Anyone who, for a variety of reasons, finds himself or herself restricted to supporting VMI through donations should never be made to feel that he or she is somehow letting VMI down. They most

certainly are not. Instead, they are providing something that is utterly critical to the Institute’s continuing success: private financial support. In the past academic year, in fact, 23% of VMI’s operating budget of $72 million came from alumni and friends. That’s one of out of every four dollars. Furthermore, private donors were responsible for the more than $8.4 million of financial aid to cadets. The people who provide that kind of support deserve only one possible response: our profound thanks. VMI’s history shows that gifts of time, talent and treasure from alumni and friends have been of immense benefit to VMI and its cadets. I ask, therefore, that you seriously consider what you can do for VMI. Whatever options for service that you choose for yourself, I ask that you keep in mind the astoundingly positive impact that private financial support has had on VMI, especially in the past decade and a half, and the critical importance it will have on the Institute’s future – and make giving to VMI your top priority. The direction of your gift won’t matter, but your financial support most certainly will.

Editor’s Note: Unless stated otherwise, all articles in the Foundation section of the Alumni Review are provided by the VMI Foundation.

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VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Foundation Board Honors Departing Trustee and Employee On April 11-13, 2013, the VMI Foundation’s Board of Trustees held its annual Spring Meeting on Post. During this time, the board’s committees and subcommittees met, and the VMI Foundation hosted its annual Benefactors Luncheon in Marshall Hall. On Saturday, April 13th, the full board met in the Preston Library Turman Room, where it heard about the state of the Institute from Gen. J.F. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, and conducted other business.

The VMI Foundation Board bid farewell to one of its trustees, P. William Moore Jr. ’63, right, who served as a trustee from July 2005 to June 2013. VMI Foundation President Walton M. Jeffress Jr. ’68, left, presented Moore with a resolution from the board that thanked him for his service to the VMI Foundation and the Institute.

During its Saturday meeting, the Foundation Board honored Col. Patrick F. Webb, vice president, Annual and Reunion Giving, above left, who retired from that position on June 30, 2013, after holding it since October 2004. The resolution that Jeffress presented to him praised Webb for his work with reunion campaigns, the Barracks Program, the VMI Call Center and other efforts that have helped raise tens of millions of dollars for the Institute. This and previous photo by Elizabeth Moore.

Class of 1963 Achieves Record for 50th Reunion Campaign At the traditional reunion parade on April 27, 2013 – part of the 2013 Spring Reunion Weekend – the class of 1963 delivered a facsimile check that represented the recordsetting mark achieved by its 50th Reunion Campaign: $20,080,063.63. This figure represents gifts and commitments raised over the past five years and is slightly more than the class of 1962, which set a new record for the 50th Reunion Fund in 2012. Making the presentation to Gen. J.F. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, far right, were G. Gilmer Minor III, co-chairman, Class of 1963 Reunion Campaign Reunion Campaign; Robert C. Troxler, chairman of the Class of 1963 Reunion Campaign; and co-chairman, Class of 1963 Reunion Campaign Reunion Campaign, M.B. Walker III. Edgar J.T. Perrow Jr. ’96, first vice president of The VMI Alumni Association, far left, accepted this magnificent gift on behalf of the VMI Alumni Agencies. (Editor’s Note: The VMI Foundation intended to repeat “Reunion Campaign Reunion Campaign” in two of the above titles. These are not errors.)

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Memorial Gifts The VMI Foundation, Inc., and the VMI Keydet Club, Inc., received the following gifts in memory of deceased alumni, parents and friends during the time frame of Feb. 1, 2013, through April 31, 2013.

Mr. Grafton D. Addison Jr. ’54 Mr. Edward C. Addison ’59

Capt. R.T. Arnest Jr. ’46, USN Mrs. Richard T. Arnest Jr.

Mr. Harry H. Augustine Jr. ’46 Mr. Frank Hammond

Mr. Craig F.J. Badalaty ’78 Mr. Paul B. Mitchell ’78

Mr. Richard B. Baker ’84 Mr. Stephen E. Hupp ’84

Mr. Robert Emerson Balch ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mr. W. Frazier Baldwin Jr. ’40 Mr. Walter A. Edens Jr. ’72

John G. Batsakis ’51, M.D. Mr. John J. Ross III ’51 and Mrs. Ross

Frank N. Bilisoly III ’43, M.D. Mr. John L. Rowe Jr. ’66 and Mrs. Rowe

Mr. Edwin H. Bodenheim II ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mrs. Julie A. Bourke Class of 1955

Mr. Walter D. Bowden ’73 Steven D. Smith ’73, Ph.D.

Col. James W. Bramlet ’54, USA William O. Turner Jr. ’54, Ph.D.

Mr. Charles E. Brown Jr. ’69 Mrs. Charles E. Brown Jr.

Mr. Thomas M. Bryan ’63 Mrs. Mell J. Lacy Jr.

Col. William J. Buchanan ’50B Mr. Augustus B. Jones III ’50B

Mr. Jack M. Burnett ’45 Ms. K. Whitefield Ross

Col. Thornton A. Burns Jr. ’55, USA Class of 1955

Mr. E.B. Burwell ’50B Mrs. Edward B. Burwell

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Mr. Hale H. Byrd ’56 Col. John T. Trout Jr. ’59, USAR (Ret)

Mr. Richard J. Cabaniss ’70 Mr. Thomas N. Allen Mr. Ralph L. Costen Jr. ’70 Ms. Susan B. Farrell Mr. and Mrs. Jasper P. Horne III Dr. and Mrs. Sherman Master Dr. and Mrs. Roger H. Tutton

Mrs. Dino G. Cademartori Class of 1955

The Honorable Bruce B. Cameron Jr. ’38 Buzz Birzenieks ’64 and Jane Birzenieks Mr. and Mrs. Mickey Corcoran Dowd Foundation Inc. Mr. Conway H. Ficklen Bill Lawrence and Brad Lawrence Mr. Sol W. Rawls Jr. ’40 Mr. J. Lansing Smith ’47 William B. Todd ’68 and Family Gen. Sam S. Walker ’45, USA (Ret) Mr. Harry H. Warner ’57

Mr. Peter R. Candler ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mr. James P. Chambers ’44 Class of 1944

Mrs. Bebe A. Cheatham Mr. Chip Lazarus ’55

Mr. Adrian A. Cmerek ’06 Mr. and Mrs. Patrick R. Rios

Paul Revere Cornwall Mr. William C. Cowardin Jr. ’63

Mr. Vernon L. Crockett ’56 Mr. Leonard A. Wagner ’54

Mr. C. Tabor Cronk ’62 Mr. John W. Hobbs ’62

Mr. Cecil H. Dickens ’51 Col. R.M. Little II ’51, USA (Ret)

Col. Samuel W. Dobyns ’41, USAF Mr. Joe T. Howard ’51 and Mrs. Howard

Sgt. Ryan E. Doltz ’00, ANG Maj. David D. Troxell ’02, USAF

Capt. James C. Edge ’96, USMC Capt. Charles P. Gallion ’99, USA

Mr. Tazewell Ellett III ’44 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71 Mr. Paul B. Mitchell ’78 Mr. and Mrs. George F. Pace Mrs. Alexander H. Williams Jr.

Mr. William H. Emory Jr. ’43 Mr. William H. Emory

Lt. Russell C. Flournoy ’99, USN Mr. Michael P. Wilson ’99

Mr. Michael J. Foley ’55 Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Tait ’55, USA (Ret), and Mrs. Tait

Mr. J. Frank Forsyth III ’37 Mr. William H. Hoofnagle III ’67 and Mrs. Hoofnagle

Mr. Douglas C. France III ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mr. George C. Freeman II ’65 Mr. Thomas W. Howard ’65

Col. Thomas B. Gentry ’44 Mr. and Mrs. Gene S. Balderson

James Samuel Gillespie III ’94 Mrs. A.J. Graham Jr. Mr. Neal B. Harrell Jr. ’94 Col. and Mrs. George Piegari

Mr. Warren M. Goddard Jr. ’53

Mr. W. Scott Crumpler ’82

Mr. and Mrs. James L. Doherty Mr. Stephen E. Hupp ’84 Ms. Virginia B. White

Mr. Edward H. Davis Jr. ’55

Mr. John M. Goldsmith Jr. ’62

Mr. William E. Crumpler ’53

Mr. C. Cary Jones ’55

Col. Charles H. Dayhuff Jr. ’931, USA Lt. Col. Charles H. Dayhuff III ’59, USAR (Ret)

Deceased Brother Rats – Class of 1968 Col. James D. Polley IV ’68, USA (Ret)

Mr. Timothy J.P. DeSalvo ’78 Mr. Paul B. Mitchell ’78

Mr. John W. Hobbs ’62

Mr. Steven Wayne Good ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mr. John S. Gray ’51 Mr. and Mrs. Ashby Baum Brown Craig Turner Mr. Ronald M. Bryan ’55 Mrs. A. Thomas Carozza II Mrs. Sandra K. Cowles Mr. and Mrs. Ronald M. Dean Ms. Nancy N. Diggs

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VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Mr. Robley L. Gerdetz ’52 Maj. Gen. Joseph G. Gray ’58, USAR (Ret) Dr. and Mrs. N. Turner Gray Col. Willard M. Hays ’51 Mr. Ewen J. Hill ’51 and Mrs. Hill Mrs. G. Duane Holloway Mr. Joe T. Howard ’51 and Mrs. Howard Mr. Stephen E. Hupp ’84 Mr. Elijah H. Jones Mr. and Mrs. John Jurgens Mr. James O. Lewter ’45 Mr. Thomas O. Mcmahon Mr. Melvin L. Oakley Mrs. Ann P. Pace Mr. and Mrs. Michael M. Rand Mr. John J. Ross III ’51 and Mrs. Ross Mr. John K. Taylor ’50B Mr. R.K. Thomas Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Skip Todd Ms. Charlotte L. Waldrop Mr. Jacob H. Wamsley II ’51 and Mrs. Wamsley Mr. A.L. Wellford III ’52 Edward J. Wiley Jr. ’52, M.D., and Mrs. Wiley Mr. William H. Willis III ’71 Mr. Vincent A. Wood III ’81 Mr. and Mrs. Larry Yancey Ms. Jody Furman Zafrir

Mr. Monroe M. Gregory Jr. ’47 Mr. and Mrs. Craig Mayhew Ben P. McCarley ’47, M.D.

Mr. William A. Hallett Jr. ’47 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71 Mrs. Samuel S.M. Gillespie Ben P. McCarley ’47, M.D.

Mr. Shawn G. Hogan ’06 Lt. Christopher M. Stolle ’06, USN

The Honorable G. Duane Holloway ’51 William C. Fuqua ’59, D.D.S.

Mr. James Hume Jr. ’42 Mrs. Brooke H. Pendelton

Mr. James B. Hyatt ’52 Mr. John C. Allen ’62 and Mrs. Allen Mr. Onza E. Hyatt ’58 and Mrs. Hyatt Insulation Specialties Inc.

Mr. Walter M. Ivkovich Jr. ’70 Mr. Gary D. McPherson Col. Ted N. Mervosh ’67, USAF (Ret)

Mr. Larry R. Jefferson ’72 Col. Douglas R. Huthwaite ’73, USA (Ret)

Mr. Ward W. Johnson ’55 Mr. and Mrs. Stephen D. Beck Mr. Warren J. Bryan ’71 and Mrs. Bryan Class of 1955

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Mr. Court C. Hall Jr. Mr. C. Cary Jones ’55 Mr. Frank J. Leech ’55

Mr. Catesby B. Jones ’47 Mrs. Catesby B. Jones

Col. Royce E. Jones ’55 Mr. C. Cary Jones ’55 Mr. William K. Kays Jr. ’55

Col. Ronald J. Kaye ’57, USMC Ms. Ruth H. Smith

Mrs. Ada S. Kirby Mr. James D. Gearhart ’71

Col. Mell J. Lacy Jr. ’63, USAF Mrs. Mell J. Lacy Jr.

1st Lt. John H. Lattin Jr. ’66, USA Mr. Joseph Bonnici

Mr. Perry R. Laustsen ’82 Mr. and Mrs. P.W. Laustsen

Capt. Stanley E. Leck ’79, USAR Mr. Gregory M. Leck ’77

Mr. Gregory C. Lee ’68 Col. James D. Polley IV ’68, USA (Ret)

Mr. Raymond V. Long ’38 Ms. Betty Tebell

Mr. Charles E. Maddox Jr. ’68 Mr. Terence L. Bowers ’68

Mr. Paul C. Marks ’46 Ms. Cornelia T. Camp

Mrs. William G. McClure Jr. Mr. R. Leonard McClure ’70

Mr. William G. McClure Jr. ’43 Mr. R. Leonard McClure ’70

Mr. Richard A. Meade ’44 Class of 1944 Mr. Robert P. Jones Jr. ’44 and Mrs. Jones

Mr. Thaddeus J. Meler ’48A Lt. Col. Daniel W. Czupryna ’71, USA (Ret)

Mr. Peter M. Meredith ’50B Mr. Warren J. Bryan ’71 and Mrs. Bryan Mr. and Mrs. George L. Compo Mr. Benjamin G. Cottrell V ’83 J. Parker Cross Jr. ’53, M.D. Mr. James V. Doss Jr. ’44 Judge James H. Flippen Jr. ’50B and Mrs. Flippen Mr. and Mrs. Stephan Gordon Mrs. Leroy D. Hammond Mr. Robert A. Heely ’69

Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Ives Mr. Thomas H. Jones III Mr. Scott Kennedy Norfolk Collegiate School Mr. Jack W. Nurney Jr. ’50B and Mrs. Nurney Mr. Michael R. O’Neal and Sherry Taylor Mr. Grover C. Outland Jr. ’49B and Mrs. Outland Ms. Mary M. Park Mrs. Joan W. Phillips Mr. and Mrs. John G. Phillips Jr. Mr. Clell Smith Mr. and Mrs. George H. Tatterson Jr. Mr. Vincent J. Thomas ’43 and Mrs. Thomas Mr. C. Ben Vanderberry ’75 Mr. Cecil T. Welsh Jr. ’52 and Mrs. Welsh

Mr. Macon W. Michaux ’48B Mrs. Elizabeth M. Graham

Mr. Richard W. Moncure ’40 Mr. William A. Moncure Jr.

Col. J.H. Montague ’44, USA Class of 1944

Mr. Jeffrey J. Morgan ’80 Mr. Richard Y. AtLee ’66

Col. A.H. Morrison ’39 Mr. Donald M. Wilkinson ’61

Mr. Halcott L. Moses ’69 Mr. George W. Lester ’69

Mr. George F. Pace Sr. Mr. Stephen E. Hupp ’84

Clinton E. Parker ’57, Ph.D. Col. Donald K. Jamison ’57

Mr. John Pasco Jr. ’39 Dr. and Mrs. Ray A. Beauchamp Mr. John A. Bowman ’78 Lt. Col. and Mrs. George M. Brydon III Beth Chapman and Thomas Chapman ’10 Mr. George T. Elmore III ’67 Mr. and Mrs. John W. Fain Harris, Hardy & Johnstone, PC Mr. and Mrs. Thomas N. Innes Dr. and Mrs. Samuel M. Janney II Mr. Paul B. Mitchell ’78 Mr. Charles H. Norris ’80 Mr. Albert M. Orgain IV ’65 and Mrs. Orgain Mr. R. Coleman Rice Jr. ’49 and Mrs. Rice Richmond Financial Service Professional Mr. and Mrs. W. Randolph Robins Mr. Thomas B. Thompson Jr. ’69 Mr. Robert S. Ukrop Mrs. Alexander H. Williams Jr.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Mr. Robert N. Petrola ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

1st Lt. Chase Prasnicki Mr. Fredrick J. Lehman ’91 Mr. Donnie E. Wheatley ’70

Mr. L. Douglas Pritchard Sr. ’45 The Honorable James W. Enochs Jr. ’49B

Mr. Lewis B. Puller ’921 Mr. Howard P. Buckle

Mr. Harry Ratrie ’44 Garden Workshop

Mr. G.P. Ritchie Jr. ’49B Ms. Lillian R. Shirley

Mr. Robert Rubino ’84 Maj. Robert M. Carpenter ’84, USAF Mr. Paul M. Iaderosa ’84

Mr. Edward H. Rutherford ’55 Class of 1955

Mrs. Evelyn Sargent Mr. Henry J. Cronin Jr. ’64 Joshua Powell

Col. E.R. Schowalter Jr. ’51, USA Col. R.M. Little II ’51, USA (Ret)

Jay R. Sculley ’62, Ph.D. Col. and Mrs. George Piegari

Mr. Tyler R. Secrest ’11 Mr. Hunter W. Davis ’11

Mr. Pete Simar Mrs. Frances W. Arehart

Lt. Col. Howard J. Simpson ’47, USANG Mrs. Samuel S. M. Gillespie

Brig. Gen. Leo E. Soucek ’49B, USA Mr. Grover C. Outland Jr. ’49B and Mrs. Outland

Mr. Richard R. Stegemerten ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Maj. Norman S. Stevens ’77 Mr. Felix E. Deacon III ’77 Mr. John J. Marshall ’77

Mrs. Evelyn K. Sutherland Mr. William B. Cridlin Jr. ’55

Mr. Galen W. Swank ’03 Mr. Robert W. Bowman ’03 Dennis C. Drinkwater Jr. ’03, M.D. Dan Horn Family

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Maj. Paul R. Syverson III ’93, USA Mr. Bowlman T. Bowles III ’87

Col. Kenneth A. Walters ’87, USAF Anthony S. Brads ’87, Ed.D.

Mr. J. Vaughan Taylor ’38

Mr. Charles P. Walthour ’49B

Mr. Hunter F. Taylor ’67

Mrs. James W. McDonnell Jr.

Maj. Gen. Carroll Thackston ’55, USNG Ms. Mary S. Allen The Bosiger Family - John and Gail, Wes ’93 and Kim, Scott ’96 and Alison, Melissa and Taylor Mr. Ronald M. Bryan ’55 Col. Walter L. Chalkley ’72 and Mrs. Chalkley Mr. and Mrs. Larry D. Clark Mr. Richard M. Clark ’94 Comspec Inc. T/A GCR Company Mr. Dabney T.P. Gilliam Jr. ’76 Mr. and Mrs. Robert T. Greene Sr. Mr. and Mrs. Ronnie M. Guthrie Mr. Winston W. Harrell ’04 Mr. and Mrs. James D. Holden Sr. Mr. Robert L. Jones Dr. Robert J. Krempl Malcolm B. Lacy Jr. ’46, D.D.S. Mrs. Joseph S. Lawson Jr. Mr. and Mrs. Charles L. McCormick III Ms. Peggy H. Milam Quality Oil Company Mr. and Mrs. Michael M. Rand Mr. and Mrs. Lott T. Rogers Jr. Mr. John L. Rowe Jr. ’66 and Mrs. Rowe Mr. and Mrs. L. Erle Scott Mr. and Mrs. Frank M. Slayton Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Tait ’55, USA (Ret), and Mrs. Tait Ms. Sandra N. Wallace Ms. Porter Watkins Mr. and Mrs. William L. Wellons

Mr. John F. Thomas ’71 Mr. Warren J. Bryan ’71 and Mrs. Bryan

Mrs. Leontine M. Trappey Mrs. Margery B. Van Ommeren

Mr. F.W. Traugott Jr. ’63 Mrs. Frederick W. Traugott Jr.

Robert K. Turner Jr. ’47, Ph.D. Ms. Gloria Rozmus

Lt. Col. George M. Van Orden ’61, USMC Mr. William A. McVey ’64

Mr. Fort F. Vaughan ’921 Mrs. Charles C. Jones

Mr. Allan S. Wagner Jr. ’50B Mr. Augustus B. Jones III ’50B

Mr. Chester Waller Mr. William C. Braunhardt Nieces and Nephews of Chester Waller

1st Lt. Douglas J. Wauchope ’59, USMC William Bradley Willard Foundation the National Capital Region

Mr. Robert G. Watt ’44 Mrs. Robert G. Watt

Mr. Julian M. Weaver Jr. ’925 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mr. Richard C. Weaver ’921 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mr. Allen T. White ’36 Mr. J.J. White ’63

Lt. David L. Williams ’91, USN Mr. Hans C. Peeders ’91

Col. Oliver J. Williford III ’51, USA Col. R.M. Little II ’51, USA (Ret)

Mr. John M. Willis III ’71 Mr. Ronald L. Gault Jr. ’71

Mr. William T. Wood ’54 Ms. Virginia Lee R. Anderson Mr. Robert B. Barnes Jr. ’54 and Mrs. Barnes Mr. Charles B. Bice Mr. Bowlman T. Bowles III ’87 Mrs. Mary B. Brydon Dr. and Mrs. William C. Day Dr. and Mrs. Robert K. Duley Mr. Bruce C. Gottwald Sr. ’54 Dr. E.M. Hudgins Mrs. Catesby B. Jones Mr. Paul H. Lamb III ’54 Mr. George W. Macon III Mr. Richard C. Mason Jr. Mr. Marvin L. Myers ’59 Mr. Gilbert F. Palmer Mr. Russell L. Rabb Jr. ’63 and Mrs. Rabb Mr. R. Coleman Rice Jr. ’49 and Mrs. Rice Mr. and Mrs. Stewart Roberson Mr. Claiborne Terry ’54 Mr. John K. Tiller Jr. ’54 William O. Turner Jr. ’54, Ph.D. Mr. Robert S. Ukrop Edward J. Wiley Jr. ’52, M.D.

Mr. DeWitt S. Worrell ’62 Mr. Alfred W. Kaemmerlen Mr. and Mrs. Jeff S. McCoy Col. and Mrs. George Piegari Mr. Edward B. Willis ’66 Mrs. DeWitt S. Worrell Dr. Stewart S. Worrell and Mrs. Suzanne Worrell

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VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Mr. Gregory R. Wright Jr. ’95 Mr. Thomas Citrano

Mrs. Alice C. Wykoff Col. R.M. Little II ’51, USA (Ret)

The Duke Energy Foundation Mr. William G. Greig ’55 Mr. Kenneth R. Jordan ’65

Entergy Corporation Mr. S.M. Henry Brown Jr. ’60

Matching Gifts The following companies or related foundations have made contributions to VMI, matching the gifts of alumni and friends listed under each. These gifts were received during the time frame of Feb. 1, 2013, through April. 31, 2013.

Aetna Foundation Inc. Mr. William T. Nebraska ’59 Col. Douglas A. Stephens ’65, USAR (Ret)

Alcoa Foundation Mr. Robert A. Cheatham ’53

Altria Group Inc. Mr. William K. Bhatta ’76

Ameriprise Financial Advisor Mr. Richard Lee Clary ’71

Anadarko Petroleum Corporation Mr. Reverdy H. Jones III ’68

Bank of America Foundation Inc. Mr. Alfred B. Cramer IV ’79 Mr. and Mrs. Michael S. Karafotis

Battelle Mr. Herbert N. Johnston ’49A

BNY Mellon Mr. Timothy H.H. Janeway ’91

The Boeing Company Col. Albert L. Lahendro ’65, USAF (Ret) Lt. Col. Charles F. Toler III ’74, USMC (Ret)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation Mr. Hugh F. Gouldthorpe Jr. ’61

Capital One Mr. Erick E. Ames ’89 Mr. Jason W. Ancarrow ’97 Mr. Alexander G. Blanton Jr. ’98 Mr. Michael J. Curley ’63

CHEP Charitable Foundation Mr. Derrick E. Lapp ’92

Ernst & Young Foundation Mr. James S.C. Phlegar Jr. ’67

ExxonMobil Foundation Mr. Charles H. Beckham ’43 Mr. William D. Dermott ’66 Mr. Charles W. Kause ’82 Mr. Thomas F. Lemons Jr. ’66 Mr. Horace L. Rose III ’82 Mrs. Patricia L. Rose Jr. Mr. Edward M. Seager ’64 Mr. Michael L. Soares ’75 Mr. Brenton L. Underwood ’06 Mr. James L. Whitehurst Jr. ’66

The General Electric Foundation Mr. William L. Candler Mr. Daniel J. DeForrest III ’64 Mr. Paul A. Kuhne Jr. ’54 Maj. Gen. Richard E. Leithiser ’50B, USAR (Ret)

GlaxoSmithKline Foundation Mr. Robert E. Edwards II ’91

Kinder Morgan Foundation Mr. E.D. Woomer Jr. ’73

Liquidnet Mr. Troy Mosby ’97

Luck Companies Foundation Mr. Mark A. Barth ’87

Microsoft Corporation Mrs. Lynn J. Gasch

Norfolk Southern Foundation Mr. Harvey H. Bradley ’49B Mr. James D. Gearhart ’71 Mr. O. Raymond Martin V ’71 Mr. Phillip R. Ogden ’63 Mr. Lawrence E. Wetsel Jr. ’61

Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company Mr. J. Daniel Coogan Jr. ’59

PepsiCo Foundation Mr. Bruce D. Cohen ’83

Pfizer Foundation Mr. William R. Haeberlein ’61 Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Horner Mr. Hunter H. Mays Jr. ’71 Mr. Kurt A. Minne ’85 Mr. C. Stewart Snoddy Jr. ’49C Mr. G. Chandler Williams ’68

Pitney Bowes Company Mr. Benjamin W.L. Semmes III ’88

Raytheon Company Mr. Kashka Ashford Mr. Fredrick L. Jones ’77

Science Applications International Corporation Mr. Derek J. Brown ’03 Mr. Jeffrey C. Carver ’71 Lt. Col. Alan S. Fojt ’72, USA (Ret) Gen. John P. Jumper ’66, USAF (Ret) Mr. and Mrs. Ed Surowiec

Sentry Insurance Foundation Mr. George H. Ritko ’70

Shell Oil Company Foundation Mr. Ira P. Parkman Jr. ’66

State Farm Companies Foundation Mr. H. Lee Barnes Jr. ’69 Mr. Tomas E. McHugh Jr. ’86

SunTrust Foundation Mr. Charles F. McCallum III ’94

Symantec Mr. Donald M. O’Sullivan ’00

UBS Mr. W. Ware Smith Jr. ’62

Verizon Foundation Mr. William D. Almy ’54 Mr. Wayne D. Chiles ’65 Mr. George A. Farry ’75 Mr. George C. Hutter ’52 Mr. Daniel W. Murphy ’85 Mr. David T. Wagner ’82 Mr. Eugene Williams ’74 Mr. Michael C. Zirkle ’97

VISA Mrs. Katherine Viar

Wells Fargo Foundation Mr. and Mrs. James N. Holzapfel

Covidien Mr. Thomas Danielsen ’96

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KEYDET CLUB KEYDET CLUB Burton Family Football Scholarship The VMI Keydet Club is excited to announce the newly created Burton Family Football Scholarship. This scholarship was created by the family of James E. Burton III ’52, including his wife, Margaret Burton, and their four children: James E. “Jeb” Burton IV ’79, Douglas B. Burton ’80, Daniel H. “Danks” Burton ’85 and Stephanie Burton Patterson. Donnie Ross ’74, a vice president in the Keydet Club who helped the family establish this scholarship, said, “We thank the Burton family for their kind generosity to our football program. They’ve been extremely faithful in supporting the Keydet Club over the years, and we are eternally grateful for their steadfast benevolence.” Margaret has been a member of the Altavista (Virginia) Town Council, and she also serves as a pianist for the Men’s Bible Class, a substitute organist and editor of the Lane Memorial Methodist Church newsletter. She is a member of the Jefferson Choral Society, while also volunteering as a pianist for Trinity United Methodist Church and Autumn Care Nursing Home. Margaret, who lives at Westminster Canterbury in Lynchburg, Virginia, enjoys knitting, needlepoint, reading, attending her grandchildren’s activities and tailgating at VMI football games. Jeb Burton ’79 received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the Institute. While at VMI, he was a member of the Honor Court, the Officer of the Guard Association and the Monogram Club, and he was captain of the golf team. Jeb has served as class agent for the class of ’79 and as a member of the Keydet Club Board of Governors. He has been a deacon and elder at First Presbyterian Church in Lynchburg and serves on the boards of First National Bank and Westminster Canterbury. He is the president of Templeton Paving. Jeb is married to

Betsy Burton, and they have three sons: Jeb V ’12, Buck and Louis ’16. Doug ’80 graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. At the Institute, he was captain of the golf team, treasurer of the Monogram Club and a member of the Rat Disciplinary Committee. He commissioned into the U.S Army as a second lieutenant in the Corps of Engineers. In 1990, he took over as owner and president of Whitman Masonry, Inc., a position he continues to hold. Doug is married to Holly Boardman Burton. They have a daughter, Grace, and two sons, Doug ’14 and John ’16, both members of the VMI football team. The Burtons live in Apex, North Carolina. Like his brothers, Danks ’85 earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from VMI. As a cadet, he was captain of the golf team and president of the Monogram Club. Danks commissioned into the U.S. Army, completed the Engineering

Officer Basic Course and served until 1991 in the 108th Training Division. He is owner and president of Pinnacle Masonry in Cary, North Carolina. He has served as president of the North Carolina Masonry Contractors Association and as a member of the Marketing and Certification Committees of the Mason Contractors Association of America. Danks is an active volunteer for Habitat for Humanity and the Miracle League of Triangle. He is married to Joanne Richards Burton, and they have three children: Jake ’16, Julia and Drew. Jeb Burton, the scholarship fund’s administrator, said, “Our family decided to establish the scholarship because of the positive influence VMI has had on our family and our desire to make sure that others could have the same experience. We also wanted to honor our mother and father, who have been supportive of us and of VMI over the years.”

The above photo and an article about the Burton family appeared in the Institute section of the last Alumni Review, 2013-Issue 2. From left: Doug Burton ’14, Doug Burton ’80, John Burton ’16, Margaret Burton, Louis Burton ’16, Jeb Burton ’79, Jake Burton ’16 and Danks Burton ’85. Photo courtesy Joanne Burton.

VMI Keydet Club Mission Statement: To contribute to the SPIRIT and development of a successful Division I athletic program that benefits the whole of VMI.

2013-Issue 3

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KEYDET CLUB Lanford ’52 Football Scholarship The VMI Keydet Club is pleased to announce the establishment of the John C. “Jack” Lanford ’52 Football Scholarship. This scholarship was created through the generosity of former VMI football letterman Jack Lanford ’52. The scholarship will provide grant-in-aid to a member of the VMI football team. Jack explained why he established this scholarship: “I have supported the Keydet Club and its predecessor organizations since shortly after I graduated from VMI. I did it because I wanted other young people to have an opportunity to attend VMI as I had.” Lanford matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and was recruited to play football at the Institute by Head Coach Arthur “Slick” Morton. He was a fouryear member of the football team, and he graduated from the Institute in 1953 with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering. He also received his commission into the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After graduation, Lanford was employed for two years by his father’s construction company. His first job site was the West Virginia Turnpike. In

Photo of Jack Lanford ’52 taken from the 1952 Bomb.

1954, he was called into service by the Army and was discharged at the rank of first lieutenant. He then began a career in heavy construction which continued for 50 years and included projects on railroads, highways, bridges and con-

crete structures. Jack and his brother, Stan, have developed and grown their company, Lanford Brothers, into what it is today – a well known specialty construction company. Lanford has served in leadership roles with the Virginia Road Builders Association, the American Road Builders Association, the Virginia Asphalt Association and several other industry groups. Married to Carlinda S. Lanford, he and his wife, who live in Roanoke, Virginia, have two daughters, Sarah L. Myers and Mary L. Price, and a stepdaughter, Julie W. Bauer. Donnie Ross ’74, a vice president in the VMI Keydet Club who worked with Lanford on establishing this scholarship said, “Jack Lanford exemplifies the best traits of VMI cadet-athletes and alumni – strong character with leadership qualities, team player, mental and physical toughness, successful professional career, service to country and community, and loyal supporter of his alma mater. He is the consummate VMI alumnus, and the Keydet Club is honored to hold a scholarship in his name.”

Keydet Club Focuses on Young Alumni The winner of the Annual Keydet Club March Madness Challenge is the class of 1999! The class of ’99 finished the challenge with 37 participants, beating the youngest class out of Barracks, the class of 2012, which finished the challenge with 30 participants. This event was designed to generate excitement and encourage the 16 youngest classes of VMI alumni to step up their support for VMI Athletics in a head-tohead competition. The class at the end 192

of each round with the most participants advances to the next round. In order to be counted as a participant, alumni gave a gift of $50 to any Keydet Club fund. At the end of this year’s challenge, there were 267 participants – a significant increase over fiscal year 2012, when a total of 176 young alumni donated to the Keydet Club. The challenge generated an additional $4,636! “I think this new initiative could grow in coming years and hopefully will be

a fun and meaningful way to generate some class competition among our youngest alumni classes, while adding new members to the Keydet Club,” noted Keydet Club CEO Greg Cavallaro ’84. Editor’s Note: Unless stated otherwise, all articles in the Keydet Club section of the Alumni Review are provided by the VMI Keydet Club.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI versus The Citadel Nov. 16, 2013

ome join us in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina, on Nov. 16, 2013, for the VMI vs. The Citadel football game. There will be a fun, pre-game event at the Charleston Riverdogs baseball stadium, which is located just a block away from The Citadel’s football stadium. Adults: $27.00 Children under 12 years: $14.00 Children under 6 years: Free We have blocked 75 rooms at the Charleston Marriott: 170 Lockwood Blvd. Charleston, SC 29403 Reservations must be made on or before Oct. 15, 2013. To reserve a room, call 843/723-3000, and ask for a room in the “VMI Alumni Room Block.” The hotel, baseball stadium and football stadium are all within walking distance of each other. The Marriott provides shuttle service to the downtown Charleston area for a small fee. Check our website for details and online registration at: www.vmialumni.org/upcomingevents

REGISTRATION DEADLINE: OCT. 15, 2013 (Fees will increase after OCT. 16.)