A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT I always find the end of summer to be an exciting time of year here in Lexington. A new class reports, the Old Corps returns and the school year gets underway. In this issue, you’ll find some photos of the Rat mass of 2010+3, as they matriculated to the Institute. Many construction and maintenance projects were completed during the summer in preparation for their arrival. Over 490 strong, this is the largest class ever to matriculate to VMI. I think you’ll enjoy feature articles on two members of the great VMI class of 1970. Bob Patrick ’70, who is the director of the Veteran’s History Project as part of the Library of Congress, explains why this is a dream job for a VMI history major and veteran. Also, read about the important work being done by Donnie Wheatley ’70, who is the executive director of Boys’ Home Inc., an organization that helps lead at-risk boys to become productive members of society.
Lykins ’73
There is an interesting feature story about Charles Luck IV ’83, a former motocross and stock car racer who is now leading the family business. Luck Stone has been handed down from Charles’ grandfather, Charles Luck Jr. ’20, and his father, Charles Luck III ’55. Also, check out the article written by Bolling Williamson ’60 on Capt. Buck Sessoms ’91 and Lt. Col. Richard Barnes ’93, both of whom pilot the helicopter that carries the president of the United States. In the Foundation section of this issue is an excellent article about the late Robert B. Rust Jr. ’34. Rust was able to complete his cadetship due to some financial aid that he received. He repaid that support big time, with an unexpected bequest of over $14 million to VMI. This is the largest bequest ever received by the VMI Foundation. Over the summer, we had some changes in alumni agency leadership roles. Charles F. Plageman ’90 replaces my BR, William H. Stephens Jr. ’73, as president of the VMI Keydet Club. See more details about Keydet Club leadership in that section of this issue. Speaking of leadership changes, I would like to wish a warm welcome to Brian S. Crockett as he assumes the role of CEO of the VMI Foundation. We introduced him to the VMI family in the last Review. As is customary, we start off this issue with coverage of our brave men and women engaged in the war on terror. I wish them Godspeed and safe travels until we welcome them back home, and I feel certain both VMI and their Brother Rats will give them a hero’s reception. Thanksgiving is just around the corner, so I close this message by wishing you a safe and happy holiday season! In the bonds,
Richmond P. Lykins ’73, President The VMI Alumni Association, Inc.
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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW