Alumni Review 2013 Issue 4

VMI

ALUMNI REVIEW 2013-Issue 4

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Contents

VIRGINIA MILITARY INSTITUTE Alumni Review 2013-Issue 4

PUBLISHER President of The VMI Alumni Association, Inc.

IN THIS ISSUE . . .

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

FEATURES 6 8 10 12 14 18

Conversation with Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62 VMI: The Way Ahead The Jackson-Hope Fund

by Donald M. Wilkinson ’61 In Memory: Byrd ’35 and Flowers ’40 Six Are Buried in Normandy

by J. Bolling Williamson ’60 Saving Ezekiel ’866 Statues

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Alumni in Theater: An Update Our Alumni Serving Association/Chapter News New Cadet Recruiting News Class Notes Births, Marriages, Degrees Provisional Appointments Taps Alumni News

DEPARTMENTS 2 140 150 160 164 173

President’s Letter Association Directory The Institute VMI Athletics The Foundation The Keydet Club

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Editor: Hope Hennessey Assistant Editor: Margaret Weimer Editorial Assistant: Brenda Stoner Graphic Designer: Adam McBryde 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 PRINTER Progress Printing Co., Inc. Lynchburg, Virginia

NEWS AND UPDATES 3 4 20 26 29 135 136 137 142

Volume 90, No. 3

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

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ON OUR COVER Front Cover: A portrait of artist and New Market cadet Sir Moses Ezekiel ’896 by Fedor Encke. See article about Ezekiel statues on page 18. Inside Front Cover: An actor in the film “Field of Lost Shoes” wearing a period costume designed by Kevin Hershberger ’95.

See related article on page 146.

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A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Greetings from the Institute!

As I write this letter, the new academic year is underway, the class of 2017 has matriculated and football season is in full swing. We have completed two successful fall reunion weekends at VMI, and hundreds of alumni, family and friends have returned to the Institute to renew bonds. Reunion photos in the front section of this Review convey the joy and VMI spirit that are always present when alumni gather back at their alma mater.

In addition to reunion photos in this issue, we have an excellent article titled “Looking Back … and Setting the Course: A Conversation with VMI’s 14th Superintendent, General J.H. Binford Peay III ’62.” This and the accompanying article, “VMI: The Way Ahead,” describe the 14 goals or descriptors of Vision 2039 and the progress that has been made toward these. There is also a list of highlights for this academic year.

As in previous issues of the Review, we take time to remember those who have died. Two men – both greatly admired and respected – passed Bob Heely ’69 and wife Lush Heely away recently: Senator Harry Flood Byrd Jr. ’35 and Daniel Fort Flowers ’40. Byrd was a recipient of VMI’s highest honor, the New Market Medal, and also received the VMI Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award. Flowers was a former member of the VMI Board of Visitors and the boards of the VMI Foundation and VMI Alumni Association, as well as a Distinguished Service Award recipient. Their obituaries appear in the front section of this Review.

Additional points of interest in this Review are: • An article written by Don Wilkinson ’61 about the Jackson-Hope Fund, how it came to be and what makes this fund so unique and important to the Institute.

• The stories of six alumni buried at the National Cemetery in Normandy. These men were true WWII heroes, and in light of the upcoming 70th anniversary of the D-Day landings, it seems fitting to recognize them, as writer Bolling Williamson ’60 has done so well.

• An article about 11 Sir Moses Ezekiel ’866 statues at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens and the efforts of Dr. Bill Harshaw ’58, Patricia Rawls and others to get these works of art restored. A painting of Ezekiel appears on the cover of this issue.

• The story of an uninhabited test city being built in the New Mexico desert by Rob Brumley ’94 and his company.

Anything from keeping telephone lines in operation during a flood to practicing the emergency response for a mass casualty will be tested there. See the Alumni News section for this article.

In this issue, we also read about three perspectives on giving to VMI from individuals who give generously of their time, talent and treasure: Col. Don Jamison ’57 (see the Institute section); Gary Taylor ’75 and his wife, Becky (Foundation section); and John Roberts (Institute section). We salute them and all who support VMI for their selfless service.

By the time you receive this magazine, we will be heading into the holiday season. Thanksgiving is fast approaching, which gives me the opportunity to thank you for supporting VMI and the Alumni Agencies. I am grateful to be an alumnus of this wonderful institution, and I am proud to be a member of the VMI family.

Rah Virginia Mil!

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

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Introducing Alumni Review Contributing Writers J. Bolling Williamson ’60 J. Bolling Williamson ’60 earned a bachelor’s degree in history from VMI and, in 1969, a master of business administration degree from the College of William & Mary. He served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1960-67. In 1969, he joined Crestar (now Sun Trust) Bank, where he remained until he retired in 2000 as senior vice president of Commercial Lending.

Williamson has written a number of highly regarded historical articles about alumni for the Review. He explains his motivation as follows: “VMI alumni have established a record of service and valor that is virtually unmatched, and the objective of my articles is to increase awareness of our heritage.”

George Abry George Abry earned a master of arts degree in English from The Johns Hopkins University, with an emphasis in non-fiction writing. He works as a tutor in VMI’s Writing Center, where he assists cadets with a variety of writing tasks, including composition papers, graduate admissions essays and honors thesis projects. He also teaches public speaking in the VMI Department of English, Rhetoric and Humanistic Studies. He lives in Lexington with his wife, Andrea, and their two daughters.

Rich Griset Rich Griset graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a bachelor’s degree in mass communications (print journalism), minoring in religious studies. He is an award-winning freelance reporter and theater critic in Richmond, Virginia. His work has been published in Diverse: Issues in Higher Education, The Virginian-Pilot, Daily Press and Richmond Magazine. He’s a regular contributor to Style Weekly and the Chesterfield Observer. Griset refers to himself as an Air Force brat and was born in Germany.

John S. Pancake John Pancake is a freelance writer living in Rockbridge County. He worked for newspapers for 40 years, starting at the Lexington News-Gazette. In 1992, he directed the Miami Herald’s coverage of Hurricane Andrew, for which the newspaper won the Pulitzer Prize for Public Service. From 1996-2008, he was the arts editor of the Washington Post. During his tenure, the Post won three Pulitzer Prizes for its criticism. He is the nephew of the late Col. Frank R. Pancake ’38, USAF, who was the class of ’38 valedictorian and VMI’s commandant of cadets from 1951-54. “Uncle Frank was an inspiration to me,” Pancake says. “… a man of great integrity and loyalty who loved VMI all his life.”

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.

Capt. Wilson Mustian ’01, USA, left, with Keith Sawyer ’83 at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kunduz in northern Afghanistan. They ran into each other at the FOB dining facility on Sawyer’s birthday, July 12, 2013. Mustian, whose father is the late Tom Mustian ’65, is with the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, JAG, and is a lawyer in the Richmond area. Sawyer is a contractor with Fluor. According to Class Agent Hugh Daughtry ’83 who submitted this photo, the two “just spent some time remembering alumni weekends and enjoying a chat.”

An Update The following alumni names have been received since the publication of the 2013-Issue 3 Alumni Review. This update does not include alumni names received after Aug. 15, 2013.

Also, 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 1998 Buis, John E. Maj., USMC Class of 2001 Mustian, Wilson T. Capt., USA

Class of 2007 Craft, Stuart C. Lt., USAF

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According to Lt. Col. Chris Whittaker ’90, USA, Potomac River chapter president, the above alumni gathered at the Pentagon in May 2013 to commemorate New Market Day. There was the roll call of cadets, followed by the “Doxology” and an Old Yell for the whole damn team, Whittaker wrote. The group gathers twice a year for New Market Day and Founders Day.

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, PO 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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Johnson ’77 Change of Command in South Korea According to a press release issued by Eighth Army Public Affairs, the U.S. Army’s top operational command on the Korean Peninsula held a change of command ceremony June 27, 2013, in which Lt. Gen. Bernard S. Champoux assumed command of Eighth Army from Lt. Gen. John D. Johnson ’77.

In charge of Eighth Army since November 2010, Johnson is confirmed to become the next director of the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization (JIEDDO). Established in 2006, JIEDDO oversees the U.S. Department of Defense’s efforts to defeat improvised explosive devices as weapons of strategic influence.

During his two and a half years in command, the press release stated, Johnson has shepherded Eighth Army through

its transition from an Army Service Component Command to Field Army capable of commanding multinational corps-level combat formations.

Notably, he led the combat formation during a time of heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, assuming command two weeks prior to North Korea’s shelling of Yeonpyeong Island in November 2010.

In addition to commanding Eighth Army, Johnson has served as the Combined Forces Command and U.S. Forces Korea chief of staff.

During his remarks, Johnson thanked the American soldiers who defend freedom close to the world’s most heavily fortified border.

Lt. Gen. John Johnson ’77, USA, then-commanding general, Eighth Army, chief of staff USFK/Combined Forces Command/United Nations Command, center, as he relinquished command of Eighth Army at Yongsan Garrison in South Korea. Johnson has been confirmed to become the director of the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization in Washington, D.C.

At Johnson’s change of command ceremony were Col. Mike Masley ’89, garrison commander, U.S. Army Garrison-Yongsan; Col. Hank Amato ’89, U.S. Forces Korea, deputy J35; Johnson; Lt. Col. Brett Turner ’90, chief, Multi-National Coordination Center; Maj. Tim O’Bryant ’98, U.S. Forces Korea J6 CUOPS; and Capt.

Andrew Upshaw ’06, Eighth Army CG aide-de-camp.

Photo provided by Upshaw.

On the flight deck of the U.S.S. Kearsarge in the U.S. Central Command area of operations, June 2013, were, from left, Capt. Brandon Kelly ’07, AH-1W pilot, VMM 266 (REIN); Sarah Wisecup, commandant’s staff 2011-13, currently deployed as the Kearsarge “Fun Boss;” Col. Matt St. Clair ’89, commanding officer, 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU); Maj. Jim Zepko ’96, executive officer, Combat Logistics Battalion 26; and Maj. Rich Pitchford ’95, operations officer, 26th MEU. According to Pitchford, who submitted this photo, Behind the group is an AV-8B that bears St. Clair’s name.

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At Camp Carroll, Korea, 1st Lt. Matthew Covalt ’11, USA, is the Fire Control Platoon leader for Delta Battery 2-1 ADA BN, in charge of the Engagement Control Station and Patriot Radar. According to Covalt, his unit’s primary mission is to protect American and South Korean assets from North Korean tactical ballistic missiles. Covalt also serves as a tactical control officer in the Engagement Control Station, identifying tracks and ensuring there are no friendly engagements.

Photo at left: Covalt (facing camera) during his promotion to first lieutenant. Photo at right: Covalt, center, and two fellow soldiers at a local school answering questions about life in the United States – part of ongoing public relations in the community.

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“VMI was and is fertile ground in which to cultivate tomorrow’s leaders.”

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“... in the final analysis, what makes VMI distinctive in the world of higher education is its mission to prepare educated, honorable and steadfast leaders to serve the nation in peace and war.�

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The Jackson-Hope Fund Twelve Years After its Inception, “Nothing is More Indicative of the VMI Spirit”

by Donald M. Wilkinson ’61

In 2001, at the time of the VMI capital campaign, Reveille: A Call to Excel, a group of VMI alumni, all of whom had served on the board of visitors or as trustees of the VMI Foundation, created at VMI one of the nation’s most innovative and entrepreneurial approaches to raising capital for higher education by establishing the Jackson-Hope Fund. Since the creation in 1876 of the Jackson-Hope Medal, the highest academic award at VMI, the name Jackson-Hope has been synonymous with academic excellence.

at which cadets can compete with other students from premiere institutions. The genius of the Jackson-Hope Fund was that this group of alumni was willing to make substantial gifts to the Institute within the context of the Jackson-Hope Fund, ceding governance to the VMI Foundation, the superintendent and dean, and the board of overseers. The funds were specifically to be used to promote academic excellence but across a wide variety of needs and programs under the auspices of the dean.

There was the opportunity for academic

“All of this was designed to give every incentive to the dean and faculty to show creativity and accomplishment. We wanted everyone to stretch intellectually and pragmatically, while carefully shepherding the capital.”

The express purpose of this fund was to ensure that VMI could academically compete at the highest levels of excellence on the national stage and, more particularly, that our faculty and cadets could be intellectually and creatively challenged through the fund which would provide the sizeable monies needed to encourage and support new ideas, new directions and new methods. It was both ambitious and daring in its clear pursuit of intellectual achievement at the Institute. Nothing is more indicative of the “Spirit of VMI” and the VMI sense of responsibility than the formative role the overseers of the Jackson-Hope Fund played in this unique way of supporting VMI. Many people underestimate the need for capital or the basic expense of putting together at VMI the faculty, equipment, real estate, travel and maintenance costs of insuring that our cadets receive the best education possible, while maintaining already high VMI standards. When raising capital in a campaign, there is always a basic tension which exists. Donors like to restrict how their gifts are used, and the Institute and all colleges hope for unrestricted capital to give the administration the flexibility to respond to new needs, such as a new professorship or new department or laboratory equipment or travel to important academic gatherings 10

departments and professors to compete with their best ideas for the necessary funding. It has proven out over time that this responsiveness to our faculty’s needs, the sense of flexibility and the competitive spirit have enhanced academic programs right across the board. One example has been the underwriting of the outstanding Undergraduate Research Program.

In total, over $17 million has been committed since 2002 to enhance academic excellence.

All good ideas improve and mature when developed by a number of talented and committed people. While a group of alumni contributed to this project, two leaders stand out as more equal than others. The Jackson-Hope Fund would never have been created without the imagination, drive, commitment and leadership of George Phillips ’60, then serving as the Reveille Campaign chairman. Nor could George have succeeded without the counsel and guidance of Bruce Gottwald ’54. Bruce brought wisdom to

“I am confident that we are prepared to be part of what Gen. Peay describes as our ‘brilliant future …’”

the organizational structure and purpose of Jackson-Hope. But others contributed importantly, as well. Backing up these two giants were other alumni, none of whom are wallflowers and all of whom have served VMI in many ways: Tommy Saunders ’58, Charlie Luck ’55 and, Sam Witt ’57. I (Don Wilkinson ’61) played a small role. All worked collegially to make certain that a structure and a process were adopted that would make this endeavor a lasting success. Twelve years later and with many achievements along the way, it is clear that the fund was well conceived and well executed.

None of this would have been possible if the former superintendent, Gen. Si Bunting ’63, or the dean, Gen. Casey Brower, had not become champions of the project at that time. They quickly took up the concept and made it a reality, when funds finally were available, by doing a herculean job of working with the faculty to have them accept the new opportunity and creating processes by which the competition for funds would take place. The current superintendent, Gen. Binford Peay ’62 and the dean, Gen. Wane Schneiter, have not just carried on the program but have shaped the fund with their own talents, improving the strategic planning and the budgeting process through which capital is matched to an exciting array of academic opportunities, stretching over the next three to four years.

There is another defining characteristic of the Jackson-Hope Fund that should be mentioned, for it has parallels to the private sector. In addition to the fact that the capital allocation process rewards the best ideas that rise to the top, there is a tracking process measuring whether or not the allocated funds have achieved their goals. All of this was designed to give every incentive to the dean and faculty to show creativity and accomplishment. We wanted everyone to stretch intellectually and pragmatically, while carefully shepherding the capital.

The lesson from this effort is that at VMI, our alumni, when called upon, respond not just with generosity but with a history of responsible involvement. They ask what they can do to most favorably help the Institute. It has been my good VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

fortune over the course of two capital campaigns to see this generosity in many ways. I am confident that alumni and friends of VMI take great pride in what we have achieved in our glorious past. I am equally confident that we are prepared to be part of what Gen. Peay describes as our “brilliant future,” with contributions to VMI that rival and exceed the impact of the Jackson-Hope Fund.

Donald Wilkinson ’61, an overseer of the Jackson-Hope Fund, is chairman of Wilkinson O’Grady & Co. Inc., which is a global investment management firm he founded in 1972. A Dillard English major, he was captain of A Company and editor-in-chief of the Bomb. He served on the VMI Board of Visitors from 19992007 and was chair of the Academic Affairs Committee when the Undergraduate Research Program was launched, as well as the Jackson-Hope Fund. He served as a trustee of the VMI Foundation from 1988-98 and as a vice-chair of the Reveille Campaign. Additionally, he is the chair of the new VMI capital campaign which will be launched in full next year (2014).

Above is the cover of a binder that was used by the VMI Dean’s Office for their presentation to the Jackson-Hope Fund Board of Overseers meeting in Richmond, Virginia, on March 7, 2013. The cadets pictured are members of the current board as they appeared when they were first classmen at VMI.

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In Memory of Harry Flood Byrd Jr. ’35

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation

Harry Flood Byrd Jr. ’35, who served mittee and became a recognized expert declared he would run for reelection Virginia in the U.S. Senate from on budget and tax policies. as an independent. Despite his unprecNovember 1965 to January 1983 and In 1965, declining health forced Byrd’s edented decision and challenges from who received the New Market Medal in father to retire from the U.S. Senate. candidates of both major parties, Byrd 2005, died at his home in Winchester, Gov. Albertis Harrison appointed the handily won the three-way election with Virginia, on July 30, 2013, at age 98. younger Byrd to the seat, and he was 54 percent of the vote. In 1976, he was Born in Winchester, Dec. reelected in another three-way 20, 1914, Sen. Byrd was the contest to the Senate, becoming descendant of many prominent the first U.S. senator elected and figures in Virginia’s early hisreelected as an independent. He tory, among them William Byrd retired from the Senate in 1983, I and William Byrd II of Westohaving spent three quarters of ver. His grandfather, Richard his adult life in politics.

E. Byrd Sr., was the speaker His Senate colleagues paid of the House of Delegates, and him many warm tributes, and his father dominated Virginia then-Vice President George politics from the early 1920s to H.W. Bush said of him, “Harry the mid-1960s as state senator, Byrd has hammered out a comgovernor and U.S. senator. His pact and solid and shining piece boyhood experiences included of work, a first-rate career of acting as a sounding board service to his state and nation.” for his father’s gubernatorial Back in Winchester, he devoted campaign at age 10, flying with himself to the newspaper busiCharles Lindbergh in the Spirit ness. Ending his active role as a of Saint Louis and being sent publisher in 1981, he remained to a local grocery store to buy on the boards of two familyEnglish-style mustard for a owned publishing companies British politician visiting the until his death. executive mansion, Winston Deeply interested in the task of Churchill. developing strong leaders for the Matriculating at VMI in 1931, country and the commonwealth, Byrd transferred after two years Byrd began leadership programs to the University of Virginia in in 1954 in Winchester and in order to pursue studies in gov1955 in Harrisonburg – cities ernment. In 1935, he left the in which his family publishes university to become publisher dailies – which give cash awards of his family’s newspaper, Winto high school seniors. In 1994, chester Evening Star. By doing he broadened his leadership proso, he began an association that gram by establishing the Harry would last 78 years, during Senator Harry F. Byrd Jr. ’35, right, with VMI Super- F. Byrd Jr. Leadership Award intendent General J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, USA (Ret), which he served as editor and program with an endowment at after the 2005 New Market Day Parade at which Byrd publisher. (He also was pub- received the New Market Medal, the Institute’s high- the University of Virginia. Every lisher of the Daily News-Record est honor. Photo courtesy VMI Communications and year, it presents a cash award in Harrisonburg, Virginia.) to 11 high school seniors, one Marketing.

Receiving his commission drawn from each of the state’s in the U.S. Naval Reserve the 11 congressional districts, who day before the Japanese attacked Pearl elected to fill the unexpired term in have demonstrated “the combination Harbor, Byrd was a naval aviator during November 1966. In the U.S. Senate, of excellence of character, qualities of World War II, flying patrol bombers in he became well-known as an author- leadership and devotion to duty.” the Central Pacific. He became execu- ity on fiscal policy and a staunch fiscal He served on numerous boards, includtive officer of his squadron and was a conservative. He served on the Finance ing the George C. Marshall Foundation, lieutenant commander when he left the Committee and the Armed Services Park Communications and O’Sullivan service in 1946.

Corporation, as well as Shenandoah UniCommittee.

After the war, he returned to WinIn March 1970, after he refused to versity. His memberships included the chester and his beloved newspapers. In sign an oath to support the Democratic Atlantic Council of the United States, the 1947, he entered politics, winning a seat nominee for president in 1972, no mat- American Society of Newspaper Editors, in the Virginia Senate. As a state senator, ter who was selected, he dramatically The Sons of the American Revolution, the he was a member of the Finance Com- broke with the Democratic Party and Masons, the American Legion, the Izaak 12

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Walton League and the National Press Club. He also was an honorary vice chairman of the Virginia Historical Society. From 1950-65, he was a director and vice president of the Associated Press.

Since its beginnings in 1924, he regularly participated in the Shenandoah Apple Blossom Festival. A page in the first festival, he was its grand marshal three times and honorary grand marshal in the 2013 festival.

He received honorary degrees from the University of Richmond, James Madison University and Shenandoah University. In 1993, Shenandoah University honored Byrd and his family by naming its business school in honor of the senator. In February 2002, the Virginia Legislature passed a joint resolution honoring his public service. In a story published soon after his death, the Richmond Times-Dispatch observed, “Senator Byrd was especially loyal to VMI. Pinstripes in the school’s colors (red, white and yellow) were painted on his black sedan vehicle.” Certainly, he had strong family ties to the Institute. He was the direct descendant of William Byrd ’849, and a great-great uncle, Charles J. Faulkner ’866, was a New Market cadet who, like Byrd, served in the U.S. Senate, albeit from West Virginia. His uncle, the famous naval aviator, Rear Adm. Richard E. Byrd, was a member of the class of 1908, and his son, Thomas T. Byrd, is a member of the class of 1968. Also, there were four alumni on his wife’s side.

A generous supporter of the Institute, in 2001, he endowed the Harry F. Byrd Jr. ’35 Public Service Award, which recognizes the public officials who make significant contributions to Virginia and the nation through government service. The Institute presented the award most recently to former Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates in October 2012. Other recipients are former U.S. Senator Sam Nunn; former Army Secretary John O. Marsh Jr.; former U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor; former Chief Justice of Virginia’s Supreme Court Harry L. Carrico; former Virginia Governor Gerald L. Baliles; and the late Senator Elmon T. Gray ’46. In October 2008, he created the Harry F. Byrd Jr. ’35 Fund for Leadership and Ethics, which supports the many programs of the Institute’s successful Center for Leadership and Ethics.

In 1975, the VMI Foundation presented him with its Distinguished Service Award; he was the first of five Brother Rats who received the award. On May 15, 2005, the Institute presented Byrd with its highest honor, the New Market Medal. One of only 13 people to receive this award, Byrd is unique, in that his father also received the medal in 1965.

In a statement released upon news of Byrd’s death, VMI’s superintendent, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, said, “Senator Byrd was a gentleman of the first order.

His lifetime of service as an officer in the Navy, as a statesman serving Virginia and the nation during turbulent times, as a respected journalist, and as a strong proponent of the Institute mark him as a truly remarkable individual.”

Byrd met his wife of 48 years, Gretchen Thomson, in 1933. She was the 1937 Queen of the Apple Blossom Festival. She predeceased him in 1989.

He is survived by a daughter, Beverley; two sons, Harry F. Byrd III and Thomas T. Byrd ’68; nine grandchildren; and 11 great-grandchildren.

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In Memory of Daniel Fort Flowers ’40

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation

On July 29, 2013, Daniel Fort Flowers ’40, Sc.D., died in Houston, Texas. A former member of the VMI Board of Visitors and the governing boards of the VMI Foundation and VMI Alumni Association, as well as the recipient of the VMI Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award in 2002, he was 93 years old.

Dr. Flowers was born on Jan. 21, 1920, in New York City. When he matriculated from Findlay, Ohio, he was a stand-out for two reasons: first, he was 16 years old, and second, he was joined by identical twin brother, Fred F. Flowers ’40 (who died in 1985). Not only were Flowers and his brother in the same class, but they also were roommates; in the same company; were the top cadets academically within the electrical engineering and civil engineering curricula, respectively; and both received the Jackson-Hope Medal (at the time, the medal went to the top cadet in each curriculum). Along with his brother, he received the French Medal for the highest proficiency in pure mathematics.

This high academic achievement is even more impressive considering the number of activities in which Flowers participated. He was involved in such activities as The Cadet, the Second Class Finance Committee, the Executive Committee and the American Institute of Electrical Engineering. He also had to deal with the normal demands of cadet life that, in the decade before World War II, included learning the intricacies of horse-drawn artillery with E Company.

After graduation, the Flowers brothers attended the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and each earned a master’s of science degree in mechanical engineering. After their graduation in 1942, they joined the Army Air Forces. Flowers served for three and a half years at the forerunner of today’s Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright Field in Dayton, Ohio. By the time he left military service, he had reached the grade of captain and was the assistant director of the laboratory’s Dynamics Branch.

After the war, Flowers and his brother reunited at MIT in order to earn doctor of science (Sc.D.) degrees in mechanical engineering. After Cambridge, they returned to work at their family company, DIFCO, a firm specializing in manufacturing specialty equipment for the mining, oil and gas, and railway industries. H. Fort Flowers, their father, founded DIFCO in 1915 in New York City and moved the company to Findlay, Ohio, in 1920. Daniel Flowers began work as a sales engineer in 1949 and became Sales vice president in 1955. In 1957, he became the corporation’s vice president for Oil and Gas Operations (which necessitated a move to Houston, Texas) and its Daniel F. Flowers ’40 with his grandchairman of the board in son, Daniel F. Flowers III ’16, Christmas 2012.

1975. In 1997, the Flowers 13

family sold DIFCO and established Sentinel Trust Company LBA. Despite his demanding business career, Flowers became a registered professional engineer in three states, including Virginia.

He also devised a “fluid operated power lifting unit” for which he was awarded a U.S. patent.

He was a deacon, elder and trustee of St. Philip Presbyterian Church in Houston.

He also taught Sunday school, sang in the choir and was the church’s treasurer. He served the Boy Scouts of America in Ohio and Texas, participated in the workings of many professional and civic organizations, and was a director of many corporations. He also was a founding trustee of the H. Fort Flowers Foundation.

Flowers began his service to the Institute as a class agent from 1940-42. Later, he served on The VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors and as president of the Houston Chapter of the Alumni Association.

He was a member of the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees twice, from 1980-86 and from 1997-2001. During his first term as a Foundation trustee, he was the national chairman of Annual Giving from 1981-83.

Flowers served on the VMI Board of Visitors from 1986-94, service that included six years on the Military Affairs Committee and eight years on the Academic Affairs Committee.

He also was a consistent donor to VMI whose many generous gifts include the creation of an athletic scholarship in honor of his late brother and dedicated support of the Class of 1940 Scholarship and the Athletic Operations Fund. In 1993, he was initiated as an alumnus into VMI’s chapter of the engineering honors society, Tau Beta Pi. That same year, the Vanderbilt School of Engineering presented him with its Outstanding Service Award. He also was an honorary member of MIT’s Corporation Development Committee.

When the VMI Foundation presented its Distinguished Service Award (DSA) to Flowers on Nov. 11, 2002, the citation stated that, throughout his service to the Institute, “Dr. Flowers provided his colleagues with invaluable advice, steady support and an inspiring example of dedication to VMI.” When he received the award, Flowers joined the company of four Brother Rats – John M. Camp Jr., Vester J. Thompson Jr., Thomas N. Downing and Sol W. Rawls Jr. – who also had received the DSA. Only one other class – the class of 1935 – can boast as many recipients of the DSA. Flowers is survived by his wife of five and a half decades, Jean Davis Flowers; three children; and 11 grandchildren, including Daniel F. Flowers III ’16. A nephew, Richard W. Flowers ’72, also served on the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees.

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Six Are Buried in Normandy “At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, we will remember them.”

by J. Bolling Williamson ’60, Contributing Writer

Of the 183 alumni who died in WWII in service to their country, six are buried in France at the National Cemetery in Normandy. In light of the upcoming 70th anniversary in 2014 of the D-Day landings, it seems appropriate to recognize the sacrifices made by these men who died in the invasion and the campaigns immediately following. Their stories follow:

The Initial Landings Lt. Freeling T. Colt ’38, USA Under a bright moon at 0100 on June 6, 1944, Lt. Freeling T. Colt ’38 and the other paratroopers in the 101st Airborne Division boarded airplanes and took off from England. Approaching the coast of France, the planes encountered a heavy fog bank and then anti-aircraft fire. The pilots took evasive action which broke the formations and scattered the planes. Consequently, when the men jumped, they were dispersed over a wide area, and most of them landed far away from their designated drop zones. A number of them drowned when they landed in fields that had been flooded ‘38 Colt by the Germans – a fact that had not been detected in the aerial photographs, because the grasses had grown above the level of the water. Individually and in small groups, the paratroopers attempted to overcome these problems and accomplish their missions. One of the objectives of Colt’s unit, the 506th Regiment, was to clear an exit route off Utah Beach for the troops that would be landing later that morning. The town of Ste. Marie du Mont was astride that route; it was heavily defended, and Colt was killed on June 6th in the action to take it.

Lt. Benjamin R. Kearfott ’43 At 0430 on June 6, 1944, Lt. Benjamin R. Kearfott ’43 and approximately 200 men of Company A, 116th Regiment, disembarked from their ship into seven landing craft and began the two-hour trip to the beach. Comprised of Virginia National Guard troops – many of whom were from Bedford, Virginia – these men were scheduled to be the first to land in France that morning. Rough seas made it difficult for the boats to maintain formation. Many of the men bailed water with their helmets to keep their landing craft afloat; one of the boats foundered. The remainder pressed on, and the boats finally grounded but in water that varied between waist-deep to over a man’s head. The ramps dropped, and as if this was a signal, German machine guns immediately opened up from both ends of the beach, sweeping across the lines of floundering men in a deadly crossing fire.

Some of the men sank and drowned; most of those who managed to get ashore were cut down. Kearfott landed in a boat with 29 other men. All were immediately killed, either by the cross-fire or from a direct hit by a shell. Precisely what happened to the men in that boat will never be known. In short order, all of the officers and non-commissioned officers were casualties, and in a span of less than 10 minutes, Company A virtually ceased to exist. (Editor’s Note: We could not locate a photo of Kearfott.)

After the Landings In the days following the landings, more men and equipment poured ashore, and the effort shifted from establishing a beachhead to penetrating the German lines and moving inland. For many of the units, this was their first combat, and their introduction was made worse by the fact that they had not anticipated the challenges presented by the hedgerows: thick high hedges – many with narrow lanes sunken between them – which broke up the countryside into small VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

meadows and fields of an acre or less.

The French term was “bocage” which roughly translates as “box country.” The hedges provided natural fortifications to the defending Germans, and progress was painfully slow: a squad of infantry might have to cross 30 of these “boxes” in order to gain one mile. An Army survey found that during the period of June 6-July 31, 1944, casualties in many of the infantry units exceeded 60 percent.

After six costly and frustrating weeks of fighting, the American command mounted “Operation Cobra” on July 25th: a major offensive preceded by a massive aerial bombing campaign intended to literally blast a path in the German lines through which the troops could pass.

Capt. Dan J. Morton ’41 A U.S. M-10 tank destroyer stood mute after being knocked out. At left is a resA member of the 2nd Armored Division, taurant that was the command post of the 1st Battalion 115th Regiment under Capt. Dan J. Morton ’41 came ashore at Maj. Glover Johns ’31. The tank destroyer was commanded by Capt. Sydney Normandy on June 9, 1944. His unit Vincent ’40 of B Company, 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion and was knocked out by a single 88m hit, which also caused damage to the command post. supported elements of the 101st Airborne in repelling a German counterattack.

It then continued general offensive op“take a crack at it.” He moved extracted a heavy toll on the Americans erations, attempting to break his tank destroyer – a large as they pushed ahead. Sheffey was killed out of Normandy and move tracked vehicle with a slightly on July 16th as his unit engaged the inland. While participating in heavier gun than the tank – out Germans on the outskirts of the village Operation Cobra on July 28th, from behind the protection of of Carentan.

Morton’s unit was moving up a building into the open street behind the lead vehicles near and snapped off a shot which Maj. Alexander C. Newton ’31 the town of Vaillebauden, was immediately answered Maj. Alexander C. Newton ’31 landed when the column was sudby a German 88m shell. After with the 4th Armored Division on July 11, denly cut by four German an exchange of several more 1944, and immediately moved to support tanks attacking from the flank. ’41 Morton rounds, the German 88 dis- offensive operations to punch through Morton dismounted promptly the German defenses. Newton from his vehicle and, assuming command abled Vincent’s vehicle and put served as the S-2 and assistant of two light tanks, moved to intercept the a hole in the wall of Maj. Johns’ S-3 and participated in the Germans. His tank received a direct hit, command post. Vincent and his planning of Operation Cobra. and he was killed. He was awarded the crew were unhurt. However, On the third day of the operaSilver Star posthumously, and the cita- the Germans then called in tion, units of the 4th Armored tion made mention of the commendable mortars, and he was fatally Division met heavy resistance example he set, noting that, as the S-2, wounded. He was awarded the advancing on the town of Couhe was not required to be in the forward Silver Star posthumously. tances, and Newton was killed element of the column nor expected to Capt. Harold C. in that action on July 29th. operate a tank. ’37 Sheffey Sheffey ’37 (Editor’s Note: We could not Capt. Harold C. Sheffey ’37 locate a photo of Newton.)

Capt. Sydney A. Vincent Jr. ’40 The 803rd Tank Destroyer Battalion came ashore with the 83rd Infantry DiviThe Final Resting Place with Capt. Sydney A. Vincent Jr. ’40 sion on June 21, 1944, relieving elements landed in Normandy a week after D-Day, of the 101st Airborne which were then at Normandy and on July 18th, he and his troops were locked up with crack German Waffen-SS Situated on a bluff overlooking Omaha and paratroops in the Carentan supporting an infantry batsector. Holding this city was Beach and the English Channel, the talion on the outskirts of the vital to the success of the inva- American Cemetery at Normandy contown of St. Lo. After observing sion: the Germans had already sists of 172 acres which have been grantan American tank shooting mounted one counterattack ed by France in a perpetual concession to unsuccessfully at a suspected which had almost retaken the United States. This is the final resting German observation post, Vinthe town, and the Americans place of almost 9,400 American soldiers, cent approached the battalion readied an offensive that would most of whom were killed during the commander – who happened consolidate and expand their landings and the ensuing campaigns in to be Maj. Glover S. Johns ’31 positions. The terrain favored France. The rows of white marble crosses – and was given permission to ’40 Vincent the German defenders, who and Stars of David are arranged with 2013-Issue 4

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geometric precision. Each is anchored in such a way that it will never tilt or lean, and each marker has the individual’s name, rank, unit, home state and date of death engraved on the side which faces west – across the beach where many of them died, toward America and home.

Alexander C. Newton ’31 Plot C, Row 24, Grave 42

Harold C. Sheffey ’37 Plot C, Row 25, Grave 23

Freeling T. Colt ’38 Plot D, Row 22, Grave 26 Sydney A. Vincent Jr. ’40 Plot G, Row 20, Grave 32

Of the 183 VMI alumni who died in WWII in service to their country, six are buried in France at the National Cemetery in Normandy.

Dan J. Morton ’41 Plot G, Row 15, Grave 34 Benjamin R. Kearfott ’43 Plot I, Row 11, Grave 30

They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted.

They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall not grow old, as we that are left grow old; Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them.

“For the Fallen”

by Laurence Binyon

The Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in France is located on the site of the temporary American St. Laurent Cemetery, established on June 8, 1944, and is the first American cemetery on European soil in World War II.

References: • Normandy, Hammond, William H.; U.S. Army Center of Military History.

CMH Pub 72-18 • D-Day: 24 Hours That Saved the World, The Editors of Time-Life, 2004 • The Clay Pigeons of St. Lo, Johns, Glover S. Jr., The Military Service Publishing Co., 1958 • U.S. Army unit websites: - 116th Infantry Regiment - 803rd Tank Destroyer Regiment - 83rd Infantry Division - 101st Airborne Division - 501st Infantry Parachute Regiment - 4th Armored Division • VMI Archives 16

The cemetery site covers 172.5 acres and contains the graves of our military dead, most of whom lost their lives in the D-Day landings and ensuing operations.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI Locket is Available for Purchase

Unique, One-of-a-Kind Jewelry Honors VMI Legacy and Tradition This magnificent Fabergé-style egg locket hides a surprise that would please the master himself. Fashioned from 925 (millesimal fineness) sterling silver and 24kt gold vermeil, this inaugural locket honors the service and legacy of the graduates and families of Virginia Military Institute. Featuring exquisite guilloché patterns covered with hand-applied Italian enamels, this locket is adorned with the “VMI” monogram on both sides. The piece opens to reveal the VMI shako, the traditional parade hat and recognizable cadet uniform item, hanging from a gold chain. This truly unique piece of jewelry was handmade in the United States by immigrant Russian master jewelers in the same style and tradition as the czar’s treasured pieces. Attractive and indicative of the quality expected by alumni, this special gift includes your choice of an 18- , 20- or 24-inch gold-filled chain, manufacturer’s certificate of authenticity and an exquisite presentation box. Suitable for wear with formal-, business or casual attire, these lockets are wonderful keepsakes and conversation pieces. Pricing is as follows: VMI Locket Shako Pendant only

The locket is adorned with the VMI Spider monogram on both sides. Above, the shako is displayed.

$124.99 plus shipping $34.99 plus shipping

Shipping cost for Locket and Pendant: $6.00 ground, $15.00 overnight

To order, call 800/444-1839, or mail a check or money order to The VMI Alumni Association, Inc., P. O. Box 932, Lexington, Virginia 24450. To order online, go to www.vmialumni.org/vmilocket.

About the manufacturer: For nearly two decades, The Artel Collection has provided the most creative, original and inspired assortment of egg pendants to major Fabergé exhibits across the United States. The manufacturer is currently the source of original egg pendants offered at numerous museum shops, jewelry stores and fine gift shops across the United States and abroad.

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When opened, the locket reveals the VMI shako hanging from a gold chain.

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Harshaw ’58 Launches Crusade to Save Ezekiel ’866 Statues

by John S. Pancake, Contributing Writer

William G. Harshaw ’58, M.D., hated what he saw.

Standing in the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Statuary Vista, Harshaw was surrounded by the works of VMI’s legendary son, Moses Ezekiel ’866. Not long after the Civil War, Ezekiel poured his considerable skill into the seven-foot marble statues of 11 great artists, including Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

But the white Carrara marble was splotched with green and black algae. Raphael held a broken palette. Nine figures, including Titian, Rembrandt and Albrecht Durer, looked out over broken noses.

Leonardo’s hand was fractured. Moss obscured the face of American sculptor Thomas Crawford, creator of “Freedom” atop the U.S. Capitol.

When Harshaw returned with his camera months later, the damage had accelerated.

Appalled, he sent photographs to Col. Keith E. Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum and co-author of Moses Ezekiel, Civil War Soldier, Renowned Sculptor. Together, they produced a booklet showing the sad condition of the statues.

Harshaw recruited another important ally: Patricia Rawls, a longtime member of the botanical garden’s board. Her father, Sol W. Rawls Jr. ’40, is a former president of the VMI Board of Visitors and recipient of the New Market Medal, in addition to serving on the boards of directors, governors and trustees of the VMI Alumni Agencies. Her brother, S. Waite Rawls III ’70, is also a former member of the VMI Board of Visitors and has served on other Alumni Agencies boards. Rawls III is president of the Museum of the Confederacy in Richmond, Virginia.

“I learned the ‘VMI Spirit’ before I learned the ‘Doxology,’” she says.

As would anyone steeped in VMI culture, she knew well the story of Moses Ezekiel.

Born in Richmond, Ezekiel enrolled at VMI in 1862. He fought at the Battle of New Market, where his roommate, Thomas Garland Jefferson, a descendent of Thomas Jefferson, was wounded. Two days after the battle, Jefferson died in Ezekiel’s arms. After the war, none other than Gen. Robert E. Lee encouraged the talented VMI graduate to pursue art. Ezekiel went on to become an internationally acclaimed sculptor, with a studio in the Baths of Diocletian in Rome.

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His most famous works include the bronze of Gen. Stonewall Jackson in front of the VMI Barracks and the poignant “Virginia Mourning Her Dead” in front of Nichols Engineering Hall, where six of the 10 cadets who died at New Market

Patricia Rawls and Bill Harshaw ’58 standing next to the recently cleaned statue of Raphael by Moses Ezekiel ’866 at the Norfolk Botanical Gardens.

are buried. The Confederate Monument at Arlington Cemetery and the bronze Jefferson at the University of Virginia are also Ezekiel’s.

The Botanical Garden’s pieces survived a curious odyssey. Art collector William Corcoran commissioned them to fill exterior niches in the ornate museum he built almost directly across from the

White House. Corcoran’s money – $600 per piece – was critical for the young sculptor. It wasn’t enough to live well on, but it meant he wouldn’t starve, Gibson says. Ezekiel fashioned the statues in Rome from the same marble used

by Michelangelo. The last of them was installed in 1884.

In 1897, Corcoran built a new museum a few blocks away at 17th Street and New York Avenue NW. Ezekiel’s works were stored behind the old building and eventually sold to Washington socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean. She put the marble statues around her pool. (McLean had expensive tastes: In 1911, she bought the Hope diamond.)

When her estate was auctioned in 1948, John Skelton Williams of Richmond bought the statues. When he died a few years later, private collectors bought them for less than $200 apiece. Through a series of donations, all 11 came to the Norfolk Botanical Garden and were placed in the garden’s Statuary Vista in the early ’70s.

To begin their rescue, Harshaw and Rawls helped pull together a committee of arts and cultural community members.

They called attention to the problem and initiated a fund raising campaign.

They hope to tap donors in the NorfolkHampton Roads area, VMI alums, the city of Norfolk and the Jewish community – one of Ezekiel’s distinctions was being VMI’s first Jewish cadet. The plan is to not only repair and refurbish the figures but also to set up a fund for perpetual maintenance and cleaning.

A partial view of the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s Statuary Vista where the 11 Ezekiel statues reside.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

The botanical garden hired John Carr of Philadelphia to do the work. Carr has more than 20 years of experience and restored another of Ezekiel’s statues, a monument to religious liberty. Carr calls the Norfolk marbles “very needy.”

He has begun with a careful cleaning to remove algae, lichens and other stains. Replacements for the missing pieces are cast in a composite material that includes marble dust, which hardens to mimic the original Italian stone. Carr then coats the figures with a liquid material to “kind of re-glue the marble surfaces.” It penetrates and fills small voids, then hardens into a protective, breathable layer.

Despite their age, Carr says the statues remain “very good, finely carved pieces.” In some places, he says, the surface still shows Ezekiel’s chisel marks.

Gibson says Ezekiel was very proud that he worked the marble himself, unlike some artists who made a clay model and then had stonecutters execute the design.

Many people are involved in the effort, but Harshaw is credited as its driving force.

Why would a retired doctor with a distinguished medical career champion a long-dead artist? The answer carries certain symmetry. In 1956, Harshaw joined nine other cadets on a European summer tour led by Col. Herbert N. Dillard ’34, an English professor. He recalls that Dillard even made them lie down on the floor of E z e k i e l ’ s “ M i c h e l a n g e l o ” the Sistine Chapel in Rome before restoration. to appreciate Michelangelo’s famous painting on the ceiling.

Harshaw’s experiences that summer triggered a life-long interest in sculpture and the Italian Renaissance.

That – and his VMI class ring, which carries images of Ezekiel’s two VMI statues – made it “only natural” that he would launch a crusade for the statues, Harshaw says.

After a pause, he adds: “The world opened when I came to VMI.”

John Carr of Philadelphia has been hired to restore the statues. Carr, who has more than 20 years of experience in restoration, said that the Ezekiel statues are “very needy.”

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Information about the Sir Moses Ezekiel Sculpture Restoration Fund is available on the Norfolk Botanical Garden’s website, www. norfolkbotanicalgarden.org or from Cathy Fitzgerald at 757/4115830, ext. 319. For more about the artist, visit the VMI Museum’s Moses Ezekiel exhibit. Also, a book about Ezekiel by Col. Keith Gibson can be purchased at the VMI Museum store.

This statue of the famous 16th century Italian painter Tiziano Vecelli, known as Titian, shows the green and black algae covering all of the Ezekiel statues. Also, Titian’s nose is missing. See the statue after cleaning below.

The same Titian statue after being restored.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS ASSOCIATION NEWS 15th Annual Daniels ’61 Pilgrimage Draws 300 Participants Hayneville, Alabama, Aug. 10, 2013

by Bob Heely ’69, President, VMI Alumni Association The Institute celebrates many heroes – citizen-soldiers who have demonstrated leadership and courage during the course of their lives. We are proud to hold in high esteem many VMI leaders who have served in our armed forces in business and in other professions.

In August 2013, on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the Civil Rights Movement, the Episcopal Churches in Alabama, Georgia and other regions of country came to Hayneville, Alabama, to honor one of their heroes, a martyr of the church who is a Brother Rat to many of our alumni, Jonathan Daniels ’61.

We all know the story. Daniels, a seminary student in Cambridge, Massachusetts, answered Martin Luther King Jr.’s call to come to Selma and help individuals register to vote. On Aug. 20, 1965, while trying to protect a young demonstrator (Ruby Sales), Daniels was shot and killed by a segregationist in Hayneville. The courage demonstrated

by Daniels and these other freedom fighters led to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Tom Jones ’69 of Macon, Georgia, accompanied by his Episcopal priest, has been a regular participant at these Daniels pilgrimages. He encouraged me and others to attend this year’s commemoration to represent VMI, including Bill Lee ’59, Bob Graves ’60, Bob Randolph ’67, Colin Campbell ’67 and Mike Hanna ’69.

I was privileged to represent all VMI alumni at this event and reminded participants that Jonathan Daniels was a citizen soldier for Christ and for civil rights for all Americans, and he was our Brother Rat. The Institute recognizes its exemplar with the Jonathan Daniels Humanitarian Award, which honors people whose lives epitomize the virtues that Daniels strove to perfect. We remember, so others may never forget.

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Three hundred pilgrims marched back from the Hayneville, Alabama, jail where Jonathan Daniels ’61 was held with the other demonstrators.

Visiting the Jonathan Daniels ’61 Memorial monument in Hayneville, Alabama, were, from left, VMI Alumni Association President Bob Heely ’69, Tom Jones ’69, Bill Lee ’59, Mike Hanna ’69 and Bob Randolph ’67. The memorial monument was donated by E. Cabell Brand ’44 and his wife, Shirley. Lee Pierce ’59, Bob Graves ’60 and Colin Campbell ’67 also attended the event but are not pictured.

Heely with Ruby Sales, the young woman whose life was saved 48 years ago by Daniels.

Bob Randolph at the Edmund Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, which is the site of the Bloody Sunday conflict on March 7, 1965, that brought Daniels to the state.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS Arkansas Chapter Has “Guys Night Out”

During its annual “Guys Night Out” (without spouses) on July 12, 2013, the Arkansas Chapter of the Alumni Association attended an Arkansas Traveler’s baseball game. Pictured, from left, were Jim Dittrich ’76, who submitted this photo; Brent Harms ’99; T.R. Bandy ’62; Dave Walsh ’90; Herb Guyton ’66; Dave Creech ’75; and Al Robinson ’77.

Hawaii Chapter Stays Connected

Hawaii chapter alumni held a casual get-together at the Hale Koa Hotel on May 26, 2013. Pictured, from left, were Chris Crawford ’89, Tom Smyth ’58, Nathan Aric Southworth ’94, Mark Bryant ’77 and Chapter President Russ Takata ’74. Aloha!

First Gathering for California Central Coast Alumni During New Market 2013 weekend, alumni in the California Central Coast area gathered for the first time at the Vandenberg Air Force Base home of Paul Whitmore ’94 and his wife, Christina. According to Whitmore, who submitted this photo, “We had seven alumni and nine family members attend, and of the alumni present, six are current or retired Air Force officers.” From left, front row, were Capt.

Joseph Picariello ’07 and his wife, Erica, with their sons, Enzo and Rocco, and Lt. Col. Whitmore. Back row: Sean Ayres ’12; Debbie deVenoge; retired Lt. Col. Tom deVenoge ’86; Lt. George Statzell ’12 and his wife, Liz; Lt. Even Rogers ’10; Chase and Emily Bertsch; Maj. Matthew Bertsch ’98; Jackson Whitmore (provisional appointee, class of ’34); and Christina Whitmore.

New Wilmington Chapter Holds First Event The new Wilmington (North Carolina) Chapter of the Alumni Association held its inaugural event – a barbeque – on June 9, 2013, at the home of Henry Brown ’60.

According to Regional Director Charlie Ramsburg ’66, Chapter President John Guggenheimer ’93, Vice President Adair Graham ’99 and Chapter Representative Henry Brown “have done a good job of working together and identifying alumni in the area.” Guggenheimer, whose wife provided the photo, said that the event was a huge success and also said, “I believe we have a very impressive group of alumni, current cadets and new cadets [who matriculated] in August.” The chapter’s next event was a Rat Send-off held on Aug. 1, 2013, at the Cape Fear Club in downtown Wilmington.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS Commandant Meets with North Jersey, New York City and Philadelphia Chapters The North Jersey, New York City and Philadelphia Chapters held a “Strategic Planning Retreat” on June 25, 2013, at Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey. In the photo at right, top, from left, were Rick Wolffe ’78, Mike Mezzacca ’89, Kevin Sincavage ’87, John Ferry ’81, John Gibney ’80, George Mosby ’97, VMI Commandant Col. Thomas Trumps ’79, Jim Walker ’86, Pablo Martinez ’90, Rich Matos (Norwich ’79), Tony McIntyre (younger brother of Mark McIntyre ’76; Marine Military Academy ’75 and Temple University ’80), Rick Killmeyer ’95 and Gordon Williams ’70. Wolffe, who submitted the photos at right, wrote, “After 18 holes of golf and a close encounter with a fast-moving thunderstorm, the golfers joined a larger group of alumni and friends [below] for a convivial dinner and a presentation titled ‘Cadet Life Today’ by Col. Trumps.” Photo at right, bottom, from left, kneeling, were Steve Scaglione ’79 and Nate Salatin ’09. Standing: Martinez, Ferry, Sincavage, Gibney, Killmeyer, John Doyle ’88, Walker, Mezzacca, Mosby, Andy Tunnard ’89, Greg Robertson ’65, Greg Reynolds ’97, Wolffe, Trumps, Williams and Andy McIntyre. Present but not pictured: Paul Bouis ’67.

Virginia Beach “Old Corps” Luncheon The second annual “Old Corps” Luncheon for Hampton Roads, Virginia, area alumni was held on May 16, 2013, at the Westminster Canterbury Retirement Community in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Bob Heely ’69, president of The VMI Alumni Association, Inc., was the guest speaker.

Photo at left: From left, VMI Alumni Association President Bob Heely ’69 with Brenda and Harold Hostetler ’68. The Hostetlers wrote, “We had a fine time [and] were among the youngest. Great ‘Old Corps’ spirit.” Photo at center: Representing the class of ’61 were, from left, Kent Legum, Chuck Fuller, Lillian Kenison, Charles Stevens, Robert Williamson, Bill Gibbings, Sal Vitale and Larry Wetsel. Photo at right: The oldest and youngest alumni present were, from left, Virginia Beach Chapter President Gary Haste ’77 with Joe Keller ’36 and his wife, Rae.

Breakfast in Richmond On the first Friday of the month, Richmond, Virginia, area members of the class of 1989 gather for breakfast.

At the April breakfast were Nat Cross, Ned Cox, Tom Henning, Ren O’Ferrall, Gary Sibayan, Derek McCown, Gordy Fox, Ashley Fairchild, Tom Spivey and Tom Hamner.

Photo courtesy Nat Cross.

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

A Heartfelt Farewell and Warm Welcome Alumni Review bids farewell to Editorial Assistant Brenda Stoner and welcomes new Assistant Editor and Communications Specialist Margaret Weimer Over the course of her 13-year tenure, Brenda Stoner has dedicated her time and efforts to aiding alumni and has forged lasting relationships. Brenda, who joined the Review staff in August 2000 as editorial assistant, recently announced she will retire in December 2013.

“Over the past 13 years, she has become a dear and trusted friend,” said Hope Hennessey, Alumni Review editor. “I’ve admired the ease with which she establishes close relationships with alumni and co-workers alike – everyone loves her!”

For many alumni, Brenda has been the friendly voice on the other end of the

Brenda Stoner

phone line or mouse click, ready to answer questions and offer support.

“When alumni or other readers have a special request, they have rightfully relied on Brenda,” said Adam Volant ’88, executive vice president of the VMI Alumni Association.

In addition to being the primary customer service representative for the department, Brenda has assisted in the overall creation of the Review, including creating the “Taps” section, class notes typing, proofreading, factchecking and more. Additionally, she is responsible for departmental administration, Review archives and indexes,

and other support duties.

“Her willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done, plus her consistently positive attitude have helped us to continually improve the Alumni Review and meet our deadlines,” Hennessey said.

Brenda grew up in the Rockbridge County area. She lived and worked in Lynchburg, Virginia, for 14 years before returning to Lexington in 1998.

“It’s bittersweet,” Brenda said. “I’m ready for retirement, but I will surely miss my co-workers and the VMI friendships I have cherished over the past 13 years. I am so thankful to have worked for this wonderful organization under such compassionate leadership.”

“Brenda is a long-serving staff member who has meant a great deal to the alumni. We certainly wish her the best as she prepares for retirement,” said Adam Volant ’88, executive vice president, VMI Alumni Association. “Furthermore, we’re excited to have Margaret on board, as she adds a great deal to the Alumni Review and the Alumni Agencies, bringing a significant set of academic credentials and work experience to our staff.”

In July 2013, Margaret Weimer joined the Alumni Association staff as assistant editor and communications specialist. She reports to Hope Hennessey, editor of the VMI Alumni Review. Although her primary role is to assist in creating the Review, Margaret brings many other skills to the job, including social media and video production, as well as Web development.

Before joining the staff at the Alumni Association, she was the communications specialist at the VMI Center for Leadership and Ethics. In that role, she wrote features for VMI publications, including the Alumni Review and Institute Report. She was responsible for the writing and managing of online content, developing and editing news

releases, mass e-mails and other communication media, while maximizing exposure for programs and conferences.

She has helped to create print and online media, including layout and design.

She has also established solid working relationships within the VMI community.

Prior to VMI, Margaret gained essential reporting and writing experience at three working newsrooms and has contributed to several news outlets including the Midlothian Exchange, RVANews and LocalKicks.

She received her bachelor’s degree in mass communications with a focus in print journalism from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Margaret Weimer Margaret was born in Houston, Texas, grew up in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia and moved to Rockbridge County in 2011. She has a deep passion for the written word and strives to deliver content with accuracy.

Editor’s Note: Please see the feature articles about Kevin Hershberger ’95 and Dic Donohue ’02 in the Alumni News section of this Alumni Review. We’re proud to point out that these excellent contributions were written by Margaret Weimer, and we’re thrilled to have her on board!

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ASSOCIATION NEWS Post-Graduate Scholarships Available

Announcing the Reunion Dates for 2014

Graduates from VMI may apply for post-graduate scholarships to support their graduate and professional study. These scholarships are for those pursuing a graduate degree in ANY field including law, business or engineering. Application materials and instructions are available from Maj. Meagan Herald, chair of the Graduate Education Subcommittee (heraldmc@vmi.edu). The deadline for receipt of all application materials is March 15, 2014.

March 24-25, 2014 Classes of 1939, 1944, 1949A, 1949B, 1949C, 1954 and 1959 April 25-26, 2014 Classes of 1964, 1974, 1984 and 1994 Sept. 13-14, 2014 Classes of 1969, 1979 and 1989 Sept. 26-27, 2014 Classes of 1999, 2004 and 2009

Cadet-Alumni Mission Team Takes Trip to Peru On May 22, 2013, VMI Chaplain Col. Jim Park; Eric Hunter ’08; Patrick McCarthy ’80 and his wife, Roni; and Cadets Michael Hale ’15 and Steve Trayer ’15 stepped onto Peruvian soil to begin their mission.

Their trip was divided into three parts: • Working with Walt Wood ’80 and his wife, Mary Lynne, who have lived in the Andean city of Ayacucho since 2000.

• Traveling to the village of Tambo.

• Assisting “Youth with a Mission (YWAM) Lima” on two outreaches.

The team also had the option at the end of their trip to take a five-day tour to the Inca city of Machu Picchu, guided by the Woods.

In the first phase of the trip, the team learned more about the Woods’ mission in Peru, which is to provide Bible training to pastors, leaders and churches through the Bible Institute on DVD. The Woods’ and others in their group have translated Bible Institute DVDs into the Ayacucho Quechua Peruvian dialect and, as of this writing, have established 20 Quechua Bible Institutes (QBI) throughout villages in their region of the Andes. So far, eight classes of students have graduated.

It was to one of these graduation ceremonies in the village of Tambo that the mission team traveled. They spent two days in Tambo, participating in the QBI graduation ceremony and the start of an24

other class of students.

While there, members of the mission team were speakers at a community conference that lasted through the weekend. The team shared meals with the community, including a traditional pachamanca (meal cooked below ground). The team also stayed with church members in their homes. According to team members, it was a life-changing experience to witness The Peru mission team with Dahlia and Jorge the joy and enthusiasm Sarmiento ’47, front row, second and third from left. for God’s word that was demonstrated by the people of Tambo. and ensured independence from Spain for Speaking of the compassion that the mis- the rest of South America. The team then sion team felt for their newfound friends toured the Wari ruins from the powerful in Tambo, Eric Hunter said, “As we drove Wari (also known as Huari) empire, dataway from the village, Mary Lynne Wood ing back to 500-900 C.E. During the final portion of the trip, the suggested that we take a final look and say goodbye to Tambo. Right then, Chap- mission team worked with YWAM Lima in lain Park ducked his face into his jacket two impoverished areas in the outskirts and began to weep. This was the level of of Lima. The team first distributed food emotion that we felt, the connection to to a number of homes in a neighborhood and then helped Open Arms Ministry this village.”

Returning to Ayacucho, the team paint their building, which is used as a stopped in Quinua to view the monu- day care facility in a dump area. The Mcment and battlefield where the battle of Carthys distributed ministry tools that Ayacucho was fought. It was this battle assisted each team in sharing the gospel that secured the independence of Peru of Jesus Christ and were also used as gifts VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS to the children and their families. The team later learned that six small ministry groups have started in the area, and the pastor of the church with whom the team worked to distribute food has started a church in the area.

The team spent its last day in Peru enjoying lunch with Jorge Sarmiento ’47 and his wife, Dahlia, and dinner with Eric Ensley ’94. Sarmiento’s father was a military attaché for the Peruvian Embassy in Washington, D.C. The team also left some VMI memorabilia at the home of David Bird ’54 and his wife, Yolanda, who, unfortunately, were unable to join in. About their time with alumni in Peru, Hunter said, “It was a great time of sharing what is happening at the Institute and hearing of their experiences as cadets!”

In summary, Hunter went on to say, “From the very beginning of our trip, we knew we were meant to be in Peru!”

Note: If you would like to join the next cadet-alumni overseas mission team, please e-mail Chaplain Park at parkjs@ vmi.edu.

Quechua Bible Institute (QBI) graduation photo of 20 students in Tambo, Peru.

Dinner on the first night in Tambo, Peru.

The mission team in Lima, Peru, with Eric Ensley ’94, back row, center.

Roni and Patrick McCarthy ’80 during the first day of teaching in Tambo.

2013-Issue 4

Chaplain Park speaking at a local church outside of Ayacucho, Peru.

The pastor of the church works with Walt Wood ’80 and his wife, Mary Lynne.

Mary Lynne and Walt Wood ’80 presenting a graduation certificate to a QBI student.

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ASSOCIATION NEWS Jonathan Myrick Daniels ’61 Humanitarian Award Call for Nominations At its December 1997 meeting, the VMI Board of Visitors voted to establish the Jonathan M. Daniels ’61 Humanitarian Award – only the second time in the Institute’s history that the board has initiated an award to honor selfless service.

The award emphasizes the virtue of humanitarian public service and recognizes individuals who have made significant personal sacrifices to protect or improve the lives of others. Nominees are sought on a national level with widespread notice through appropriate channels.

The inaugural award was presented to former President Jimmy Carter on March 29, 2001. The second award was presented to Ambassador Andrew Young on March 23, 2006, and on March 30, 2011, Paul V. Hebert ’68, Ph.D., received the third award. In March 2004, the Daniels Courtyard and Arch connecting Old Barracks and Richardson Hall were

dedicated in honor of Jonathan Daniels.

Daniels, a native of Keene, New Hampshire, was valedictorian of the class of 1961. He was a seminarian at the Episcopal Divinity School in Cambridge, Massachusetts, in 1965 when he answered the call of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. for clergy to assist with civil rights and voter registration efforts in the South.

On Aug. 20, 1965, he gave the ultimate sacrifice – his life – for that of another.

He was killed when he took a shotgun blast intended for a black teenage girl, Ruby Sales.

In summer 1994, the Episcopal Church added the date of his death to its Calendar of Lesser Feasts and Fasts, an honor bordering on sainthood or martyrdom.

In England’s Canterbury Cathedral, there is a Chapel of Martyrs in which 15 modern day martyrs are honored.

The only two from the United States are

Jonathan Daniels and Dr. King.

“One of the most heroic Christian deeds of which I have heard in my entire ministry and career was performed by Jonathan Daniels. Certainly there are no incidents more beautiful in the annals of church history, and though we are grieved at this time, our grief should give way to a sense of Christian honor and nobility.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Nominations and supporting material should be sent to: W. Gregory Robertson ’65 Chairman, External Relations Committee VMI Board of Visitors c/o Superintendent’s Office Virginia Military Institute Lexington, VA. 24450

Oklahoma Chapter Holds Annual Event The Oklahoma Chapter of the Alumni Association met for their annual event at the Bricktown Ballpark in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, on May 11, 2013.

Attending were, from left, Luis Cuellar ’77, Jay Foertsch ’76, Tyler Tucker ’09, Robert Main ’12, David Yost ’12, Alex Stalnaker ’12, David Downing ’09, John Alerding ’12, Elijah Ward ’01, Chris Brown ’09, Taylor Farmer ’90 and son John, Trent Blackman ’09, Garry Varney ’76 and Ricky Pfrogner ’09. Photo provided by Foertsch, who is the chapter secretary.

New Cadet Recruiting Season Nears Midpoint Join Us in Spreading the Word

by Nichole Kramer ’03, New Cadet Recruiting Officer

As the class of 2015 prepares to receive their rings, alumni recruiters are diligently helping to build their Rat mass 2015+3 and the next class to matriculate. At the time of this writing, we are about midway through the New Cadet Recruiting season, and as you can see in the chart on the next page, our annual campaign reaches far beyond the boundaries of Virginia.

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This year, the campaign officially extends as far west as Hawaii, but our alumni work hard all around the world and all throughout the year to spread the word of VMI. Such an expansive effort could be done only through outstanding support from our alumni recruiters and hosting alumni. Join us at one of the remaining events, or notify me – Nichole Kramer ’03

at nkramer@vmiaa.org – if you would like to become more involved in this rewarding process. You can be as involved as you are able … from simply being on a list to receive phone calls from prospective cadets, to representing VMI at local college fairs.

“Don’t do ordinary.” Support VMI through successful recruiting. See the complete schedule on the next page.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ASSOCIATION NEWS

New Cadet Recruiting Schedule Chapter

City, State

Date

Time

Location

Rockbridge County Chapter Lexington, VA Sept. 12 6:30pm Moody Hall _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Northern Shenandoah/Stonewall Jackson Chapters Hagerstown , MD Sept. 16 6:30pm Homewood Suites Hagerstown _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Tri-cities Chapter Petersburg, VA Sept. 23 6:30pm Holiday Inn Petersburg North- Fort Lee _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Charlottesville Chapter Charlottesville, VA Sept. 24 6:30pm Doubletree by Hilton Charlottesville _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ George C. Marshall Chapter Sterling, VA Sept. 30 7:00pm 1757 Golf Club _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Central NC - Raleigh Chapter Raleigh, NC Oct. 7 6:30pm DoubleTree Raleigh Durham _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Baltimore Chapter Baltimore, MD Oct. 9 7:00pm BWI Airport Marriott _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Williamsburg, VA Oct. 14 6:30pm Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg Chapter _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Middle TN-Nashville Chapter Nashville, TN Oct. 16 6:30pm Hilton Garden Inn _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ NYC, Long Island Chapter Long Island, NY Oct. 21 7:00pm Four Points by Sheraton _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Delaware Valley Chapter Philadelphia, PA Oct. 22 6:30pm Hilton Philadelphia Airport _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Roanoke, VA Oct. 29 6:30pm Holiday Inn Roanoke Valley View Roanoke Chapter _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Lynchburg, VA Oct. 30 6:30pm Kirkley Hotel & Conference Center Lynchburg Chapter _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Fredericksburg-Quantico Chapter Fredericksburg, VA Nov. 4 7:00pm Riverside Center _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Potomac River Chapter Springfield, VA Nov. 5 7:00pm Hilton Springfield _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ VMI Club of Richmond Chapter Richmond, VA Nov. 12 7:00pm Virginia Historical Society _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Boston, MA Nov. 15 6:30pm Sheraton Framingham New England Chapter _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Rappahannock Chapter Irvington, VA Nov. 19 6:30pm The Tides Inn _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Norfolk, VA Nov. 20 7:00pm The Nauticus Maritime Museum Norfolk Chapter _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Charlotte Chapter Charlotte, NC Nov. 25 6:30pm Renaissance Charlotte Suties _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Atlanta Chapter Atlanta, GA Nov. 26 7:00pm Hilton Garden Inn Atlanta Perimeter Center _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Inland Empire/Greater LA/San Diego Chapters California, CA Nov. 30 6:30pm The Proud Bird _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Pike’s Peak and Rocky Mountain Chapters Colorado Springs, CO Dec. 18 6:30pm Antlers Hilton Colorado Springs _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ North Dallas Chapter Dallas, TX Dec. 18 6:30pm Hilton Garden Inn Dallas Market Center _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Southeast TX - Houston Chapter Houston, TX Dec. 18 6:30pm Hilton Garden Inn Houston Energy Corridor _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Hawaii Chapter Hawaii, HI Dec. 18 6:30pm Ala Moano Hotel _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Pacific Northwest Chapter Seattle, WA Dec. 18 6:30pm Ivar’s Salmon House _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Detroit Chapter Detroit, MI Dec. 21 6:30pm Sheraton Detroint Novi Hotel _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Chicago Chapter Chicago, IL Dec. 21 6:30pm Hilton Palmer House _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ North Jersey Chapter New Jersey, NJ Jan. 11 1:00pm Beacon Hill Club _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Oklahoma Chapter Fort Sill, OK To be determined _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Kansas City Chapter Kansas City, MO To be determined _________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2013-Issue 4

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ASSOCIATION NEWS Westminster-Canterbury Group in Richmond Greets Guests and Newlyweds

On March 14, 2013, the VMI family at WestminsterCanterbury in Richmond, Virginia, welcomed guests Ruth and John Taylor ’50B and celebrated newlyweds Mary Easterly and Charlie Miller ’42. The group gathered for cocktails and dinner in the Canterbury private dining room. About the evening, event photographer Jo Ann O’Hara said, “We had a great time!”

Photo 1: Newlyweds Mary Easterly and Charlie Miller ’42 Photo 2: Maya and R.B. Barnes ’54 Photo 3: Mary and George Hutter ’52 with Dee and Buddy Metz ’45 Photo 4: Theda Royall (widow, Archer ’37) Photo 5: The Barnes with Lucy Phillips (widow, Edwin ’43) 3 Photo 6: Dee and Buddy Metz ’45 Photo 7: Marguerite Ellett (widow, Taz ’44) Photo 8: Elizabeth Lee and Jo Ann O’Hara (widow, Robert ’35) Photo 9: Sarah and Ed Smith ’50B with Ruth and John Taylor ’50B Photo 10: Harry Lee ’47 Photo 11: Jean Salley (widow, John ’47) and Ben Harmon ’49 Photo 12: Mary and George Hutter ’52 Photo 13: Audrey and Morton Eggleston ’59 Photo 14: Juliet Goode-Hupp (widow, Thomas ’44)

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASSNOTES NOTES CLASS Richard H. Knight Jr. ’70

’35

Harry Flood Byrd Jr. died on July 30, 2013. Upon hearing the news, I notified Jim Sherman and Eddie Arnold.

Class of 1935: Eddie Arnold with grandsons Aaron and Austin.

I received a letter from Sen. Byrd just days before his death. He was delighted to know that Jim and Eddie were doing so well, and he expressed amazement that the class spans one-half of the Institute’s history. Yes, it does. The class entered Barracks 82 years ago; cadets began walking guard 82 years before that in 1839.

I met Sen. Byrd in 1969 when he spoke at the Moody Hall dedication ceremonies.

The next year, I worked in his senatorial campaign doing some advance work in the Tidewater area. We crossed paths in 1975 at the Stafford County Courthouse rededication. Ten years later, we saw each other at the Arizona Biltmore, where Sen. Byrd had gathered with other senior statesmen, including Sen. Barry Goldwater. And five years after that, Sen. Byrd accepted my invitation to deliver the keynote address at a Churchill conference in Richmond. I visited Sen. Byrd in his Winchester, VA, home as recently as two years ago.

Sen. Byrd sponsored the legislation that restored Gen. Robert E. Lee’s citizenship.

Lee was a graduate of West Point (USMA 2013-Issue 4

1829) but the Lee family was closely associated with the Institute. Lee’s son, Maj. Gen. George Washington Custis Lee, CSA (USMA 1854), was a civil engineering professor at VMI after the war until he succeeded his father as president of Washington College (Washington and Lee) in 1871.

Lee’s nephew, Maj. Gen. Fitzhugh Lee, CSA (USMA 1856), was a member of the VMI Board of Visitors after the war. Many members of the Lee family have attended VMI, including the very distinguished Harry Fitzhugh Lee ’911.

Sen. Byrd will be missed and long remembered by the VMI family.

I am sorry to report the loss of Clelia Freeman last May. Clelia had an outstanding career as a devoted army wife and mother, and an equally outstanding career as a teacher and administrator in the public schools. I frequently saw George and Clelia during my trips to Atlantic Shores, a retirement community located in Virginia Beach. Clelia was a lovely and gracious lady.

I did not know until recently that Col. “Saint” John Arnold also resided at Atlantic Shores and was living there when my parents were. I am sorry that I did not have an opportunity to meet this distinguished war hero.

On my way to Old Lyme, CT, last May for my nephew’s Eagle Scout ceremony, I stopped in New Haven and could not help but think of Robert W.W. Evans, M.D., who for so many decades practiced medicine there and developed a national reputation in the field of ophthalmology.

I received a nice long letter from Jane Ferrell (Mrs. William B. Ferrell). Jane enjoys the class notes and promises to send word of any “scandals” just as soon as she hears something “good.” Jane is 94 but she is still driving and walking without assistance, and she is staying very busy with civic projects.

She and her son, “Tuck,” are volunteering their services on the St. Johns Heritage/ Palm Bay Parkway project. They are also volunteering their services at the Archie Carr National Wildlife Refuge where there is important work to be done to restore the nearly 21-mile stretch of sand dunes that are vital to the region’s nesting turtles. Thanks very much for this fine report, Jane.

I received a nice e-mail from Dr. Tom Arnold, Eddie’s son. Tom attached a photo taken in mid-August of Eddie and of Tom’s sons (Eddie’s grandsons), Aaron and Austin,

as they were preparing to depart for New Mexico State University in Las Cruces, where they are both students. Eddie looks right at home on that chopper. Thanks, Tom. Wishing everyone “Happy Thanksgiving” and “Merry Christmas,” I am Respectfully, Dick ’70

’39

Frank Parker III ’64

It has been a slow summer for news. Ira Saxe reports he is doing well given that his hip needs replaced, but the doctors don’t want to chance it. He has a great attitude and gets great support from his son who lives in the area. The news concerning Howard Golladay is also somewhat disconcerting.

He is currently in the hospital for tests associated with his heart and other issues. He is well-tended by his granddaughter Jennifer Platt. Family help in our old age is priceless, and I’m sure there is a special place in heaven for those who care for their elders.

Marcy and I toured Spain and Portugal, with a day trip to Morocco, this spring. It was great. We started in Madrid and then went south to Toledo through La Mancha (Don Quixote country) to the Mediterranean coast at Malaga. We then headed west to Lisbon and environs. The countryside and spring flowers were beautiful, and much of the wealth they removed from the Americas in the 15th to 18th century is still visible in churches and other public structures. Our next trip is to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos Islands with a group of my Brother Rats and their significant others and friends.

I stayed out of the Army because VMI taught me that hiking was not my forte, so we’ll see how these old legs do while hiking Peruvian mountains at 10,000 feet.

Some humor from the ’39 Bomb: My Likker Locker I wish I had a likker locker To lock some likker in.

I wish I had a lotter likker To place therein.

Because I am a likker liker Fond of Scotch and gin.

I wish I had a likker locker For me and my frin.

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CLASS NOTES And: Mess Hall Milk I never saw a purple cow; I never hope to see one.

But after drinking Mess Hall milk, I know that there must be one.

Raise a glass to the Brother Rats of ’39, It matters not if beer, whiskey or wine.

No salute is more deserved, No class is more revered.

They are the “Great Generation.”

And we all say, “Hear, Hear.”

’40

Robert Smith

Suddenly it seems we are down to four.

Hang in there, dear brothers!

One of the great inspirational leaders of our class, Dan Flowers, died on July 29. To me, the presence of Dan and his identical twin, Fred, in our class was awesome from the beginning. Almost as soon as we matriculated, they became outstanding as men who could handle all the academic challenges easily when others were struggling. And so it went through the four long years. They made us believe that difficult academic achievements were within our grasp! Their records of such accomplishments gave them an iconic status among us.

In recalling my personal association with them, may I point out that in the little summaries of their VMI careers in the Bomb, participation in the Glee Club was not mentioned, but I have a photograph to prove that one of them was in it. I’m pretty sure it was Dan because his obit says he sang in his church choir in Houston for years.

I might go on with the things I remember about Dan, but at a time when his great life is to be honored, it might diminish his memory just to pick out a few things to talk about when there is so much. See the front section of this issue for Dan’s obituary (In Memory).

That is the place for writing of his life. I’ll just say, “He was one of the Great Ones.”

Without any intended criticism of Dick at all, an item Dick Knight ’70 put in the report he wrote for the class of 1935 in the 30

last Alumni Review was interesting. He related that “I” Chang ’35 “was very likely the first VMI alumnus killed in action in World War II.” Of course, we have honored and thought of our own Brother Rat George Ben Johnston Handy as the alumnus with that place in history. But, with different perspectives, both would be considered correct. It is thoughtful and many will agree that the start of the war was the Japanese invasion of the Chinese mainland. Our Brother Rat General Sun, whose wartime saga has been reported in this column, would certainly think that way as well as the many other alumni who keep a global prospective. But for many, the emotional, perhaps less objective, but quite understandable view is that the war really started when the United States was attacked at Pearl.

Interestingly in that regard, I especially recall my roommate, Ray Wasdell’s, awareness of the earlier start of the war in Asia and then in Europe. In our room, our Sunday afternoons almost always found Ray getting out his topographical maps from National Geographic of both East Asia, and then Europe, to plot the advances of the respective armies across those lands. I think he got his data for this plotting from the New York Times, with supplemental information from other papers. His alert awareness and the significance he attached was unique, but soon I got caught up in it. A few BRs came to see the map sometimes, but there wasn’t any comprehensive interest.

Sometimes I also think about all this with the prospective that we were learning to be soldiers and yet I don’t recall any effort at all by our ROTC instructors to have us keep up on the war, globally, as it began to unfold.

As I remember, even the invasion of Czechoslovakia did not get time in our studies in military science classes – we just kept on learning about the horses, about riding and about how to shoot the little Bishop training rifle mounted on the French 75s! What a contrast with my sons-in-laws of the next generation of military training – one of West Point and the other of Sandhurst. When they were graduating, and after, neither could ever get enough news about the various wars and embattled nations and peoples around the world. Perhaps that is the reason that our and the British military today seem to be the ones in their governments that are most frequently looked to for understanding and analysis of

the strategic situations everywhere. (I only know what I see on TV!) Sol Rawls and I talk from time to time, and he always adds cheer to my day with his good humor and perspicacity. Recently, we rejoiced in our good fortunes in not having much news about ourselves to talk about because that indicates that things are going along well. He did say that his home, which was built by him, is beginning to be recognized as a designated historical place.

I didn’t comment because I just didn’t know what to say! It seemed indelicate to speculate about all the inferences from that designation, especially how that distinction might be applied to a person who lives there. So, I kept my speculation to myself.

Sol had Hardaway’s phone number in Cashiers at hand because they had talked recently, and that saved me the trouble of looking in my files for it. Ben told me that he was enjoying his summer and is following a routine that includes trap and skeet shooting twice a week. He does this with neighbors.

To make it more interesting, they have an instructor couple who come to advise them on the fine points. He still follows closely the career of his almost protégé, the country singer, Shannon Whitworth, and was supportive recently when she had a death in the family. He keeps up with her gigs by following her on Facebook.

News has come from the alumni office that Mary Lamm, widow of our Brother Rat Riddick Madison Lamm, who was with us for our Rat year, died last January 26. She lived in Wilson, NC. Before I called our fourth survivor, Matt Friedlander, this time I resolved to find out more about his early career than I had known before, and I was so glad I did. He too was with us for only our Rat year. I knew from talking to Sol Rawls that Matt had gone on to graduate from Duke. He confirmed that he was in the class of ’40 there, so his class grades at VMI must have been credited fully toward his degree. We enjoyed a chuckle about the fact that he got through the hard Rat year, and the rest would have been easier.

But, he had no regrets about having changed schools. His degree was a B.A. in business, I think he said. When the war came, because he had been to VMI, he was granted a commission in the Navy. He started his service with a transport ship going to North Africa.

(To put a date on this, I looked up the records VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES which show that “Torch,” the Allied landings on the western coast of North Africa under the supreme command of Maj. Gen. Dwight D. Eisenhower, were made on Nov. 8, 1942 at three places in the vicinity of Casablanca on the Atlantic coast of Morocco, with a total of about 110,000 troops, most of them Americans.) Later, he was assigned to armed guard duty as a commodore’s aide, and then he was assigned to an oil tanker plying coastal waters. Finally, he was assigned to the Naval Amphibious Base, Little Creek, Norfolk, which is the major operating base for the Amphibious Forces in the United States, and he was there until the war’s end.

At Little Creek, he was in the communications school and rose to be in charge of the school with the rank of lieutenant. Just as the war came to a close, he was designated to go to the Pacific Theater but the order was rescinded the next day when the war ended.

After the war, he went into real estate and development in Moultrie, GA, working on housing, industrial and commercial projects.

His business grew and he had branches in Atlanta as well as other locations. It is continuing today, and he has continued to participate without being involved in dayto-day activities.

Betty-Jane and I are going along on a fairly even keel. As an empirical measure of our health, we latch on to the fact that our doctor told us not to come back for three or four months. So, we think that says we must be feeling good.

Recently, a book that I have written about my grandparents came back from the bindery, and I have been calling and enjoying a renaissance in my relationship with all my living first cousins, plus my own progeny, as I send them copies. Many have no idea what life was like for this wonderful couple who had a tobacco farm in southern Virginia after WWI. It was in the days before the Rural Electrification Administration, and I tried to describe some of the technology they did have. It was fun trying to remember how their living was made, their livestock and other animals, their social life around their churches and their different ways of meeting the challenges. There are lots of photographs that have survived. I did the book as a desktop publishing project and enjoyed the entirely new challenge of designing and carrying out the typography.

It should perhaps be noted that when this 2013-Issue 4

column goes to press, I also distribute it by mail directly to a list of about 20 friends of the class. This includes many widows and children. So, of course, that bigger audience motivates me to write a little more in depth and distribute it in a timely way. I hope they will enjoy renewing the connection and feeling close to the Institute that way.

Stay well, everybody.

’41

Alfred Rooklin

I received a letter from Bob Maling. It detailed his present life. I asked his permission to print it in this report.

“Late in March 2012, after four days at Brooke Army Medical Center, Mila was diagnosed with an advanced case of Alzheimer’s disease. Both of us are now living at a three-building compound at 1207 Jackson Keller Rd., San Antonio, TX 78213. My apartment number is 1117. My cell phone number is 210-844-2757. This compound consists of three buildings – two for retirees and a locked-down facility to protect the Alzheimer patients. Mila is living in the locked-down building that is about 50 yards from where I am. It is set up to assure the safety and well-being of the patients there from any physical harm or possible abuse. We see each other regularly, at least once or twice each day. Each building even has its own dining room. Nothing is quite like home, but we are happy here, and Mila is well adjusted to our environment. It is certainly the best we can ask for under the circumstances.

“Unfortunately, 2012 was equally hard on me. I have virtually lost my hearing and wear a hearing aid, but I don’t find that it is doing me much good. The most damaging health issue is the news from my doctor that macular degeneration has reduced my vision to where I am on the borderline of being legally blind. We have gotten rid of our cars due to this and are reduced to depending on others for transportation when/if it is needed. Please give my best to MJ and any of the Brothers that you might happen to see.

Sincerely, Bob” Lots of our phone numbers are gone.

Please give any or all the numbers you may

have. Do any of you have Ellender’s number in Houma, LA? His old number is no longer in service.

Are any of you aware of the situation in the English dept. concerning the tenured professor and department heads? Articles were published in Lexington papers, The Advocate and The Lexington Gazette, June and July issues. Also, The Roanoke Times printed several items about it.

The class agent for ’62 called me to say he has a photo of Frank Kirby to give me. My neighbor is Russ Elliot ’62 and the three of us plan to have lunch to talk current VMI topics – including their Brother Rat, VMI Superintendent Gen. Binnie Peay ’62, one of the best in our time.

Seaton, Louthan and I have our 93rd birthdays from June through September … there may be others. I shall have to check our matriculation copy for additional ones.

Do any of you know any others?

I am still trying to find telephone or cell numbers and missing addresses of our Brother Rats. Do you know any?

Seven Bro’ Rats died in the last 12 months.

I am trying to find any others who passed on.

Frank Louthan and I are planning on making it to our 100 years. Any of you care to join us?

Stay in touch!

Al

’42

Charles B. Miller

Ernie Keppel died on June 20, 2013. That leaves me as last of the Brother Rats of the Thomas Jefferson High School Class of 1938 here in Richmond. Gone are Lanky Guy, Meriwether Jones, Al Goddin, Jimmy Hume, Jack Randolph and Wortham Spilman.

Mary and I stopped by The Hermitage in Richmond the other day and had a nice talk with Jed Wilson. He tries to call Gabe Horne every day.

I received a nice note from Virginia Chewning. Mary and I sat with her son, Charles, at Ernie’s funeral.

Little or no news from the other brothers, so here goes on my summer activities. In late July, Mary’s daughter and son-in-law 31

CLASS NOTES

’43

Class of 1942: Harry Siebert, Buttercup (horse), Sgt. Henson, Bill Richardson ’41 and Gyrene (horse) at the Lynchburg Junior League Horse Show in fall 1940. Photo submitted by Siebert.

drove us from Richmond, starting at 4 a.m., to his family’s place in Squam Lake, NH. We enjoyed a week there. My daughter, Lindsay, then drove us to Cambridge, MA, where we enjoyed a couple more days with her and her husband. We had dinner one night with a daughter and granddaughter of Geline and Alex Williams. (Daughter and granddaughter’s names are Geline, too.) We flew back to Richmond for a few days before going to Virginia Beach, where my children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren have stayed for two weeks for the last 25 years. After six days back in Richmond, we flew to St. Petersburg, Russia, for a riverboat trip to Moscow and got back home on September 10!

Life has been hectic, so I have not done as well as I would like about getting class of ’42 news. I do receive occasional e-mails from Gordon Moore and Jack Patton.

Then Fred Love comes through. Here is what he wrote: “Thanks for the great job you have been doing as classy (sic) agent.

My failure to keep up correspondence is not representative of my lasting affection for VMI, which is second to none, though I left after two years to pursue my medical career at Chapel Hill (as did Malone Parham). I did make several reunions but even better were the many gatherings of the denizens of room 448 at my Beech Mountain aerie.

Gabe Horne, Jed Wilson, George Esser, Willoughby Williams and I were crammed in that small room. Below us were football players Harold Tipton ’41 and Randy who proved their friendship on Bloody Sunday.

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In later years, we admitted the McDonoughs and Harry and Jodie Siebert to honorary membership in the elite 448 suite. Incidentally, you must read Siebert’s book about his war experiences. He sent me a copy, which I thoroughly enjoyed. As you classified me in the last Alumni Review as the baby of the 17 members on your mailing list, I hereby extend my respect to my elders and wish all you old guys good luck and health. As for me, I have not returned to the diaper stage and those bodily functions are intact. I do have mobility problems with two wrecked knees and depend on a walker to ambulate.

My vision is 20/20, including night, so I still drive, watch TV and read while living alone in my 5,000-plus square foot home, and I do most of my food preparation, etc.

I survived a triple bypass, aortic valve replacement, rectal cancer, heart attack, stent and several cardiac caths. I went to cardiac rehab for a few weeks and now continue three hours a week at the YMCA. I have been reelected to serve on the governing board of our 400-bed non-profit hospital in Delray Beach, FL, so guess I’ll have to hang around a while longer.”

Then, Brent Dorrier, widow of Gramps, writes that she gets the Review and was glad to have my list of remaining Brother Rats.

She keeps in touch with Clyde Hooker’s widow, Kitty Sue, and Theo Gilliam’s widow, Sarah. The three couples used to attend football games and reunions together.

I enjoyed her note.

I saw a bearded Paul Geary on Facebook.

It did not look like the PX I remember.

Jeffrey G. Smith

On June 2, 2013, the date of our 65th wedding anniversary, my dearest friend and cherished wife, Jane, died in my arms. I was, and remain, devastated. She was buried in Arlington National Cemetery on July 1, nearby the grave of my parents.

I have enclosed a photo of Jane and me taken in very recent years as a reminder of her beauty and graciousness.

Our children have given me a world of support. Fortunately, five of our six live close by, and our sixth lives in Charlotte, NC. I have no deaths to report among our Brother Rats. And I have heard no news from our Brother Rats.

I will do my best to provide a cheerier and newsworthy report in the next Review.

Class of 1943: Jeff Smith and his lovely wife, Jane, whose beauty and verve remained undiminished from the time of this photo in 2009 until her sudden death in 2013.

’44

Tom L. Peyton Jr.

As I write this on a warm sunny day in midAugust, I am mindful that you will be reading these notes in the Alumni Review when the weather is turning, and winter will not be far away. Time passes quickly, so this is probably my last good opportunity to urge your VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES decision to attend our 70th Class Reunion on March 24 and 25, 2014, in Lexington. Please start your plans now by marking those dates on your calendar and starting the process of considering any special arrangements that might be required to get you to Lexington and back to your home. If you need help getting there, etc., this would be the time to speak to a relative or friend about assistance. We have reached the age where many of us will require some assistance in traveling and in getting about on arrival. Based on past experience, some in declining health or ability have depended on sons, daughters or grandchildren for such assistance. From observation, this has appeared to work very well, with the younger set blending right in with the rest of us and fully enjoying the festivities. Also, if you have any questions about the reunion, please give me a call or send me an e-mail. Of course, you will be hearing more about all of this as the time draws near, but now is the time for some serious thought and initial plans.

This is a special appeal to our Class of 1944 widows to consider attending our 70th Reunion – possibly difficult physically and or emotionally, but a wonderful opportunity to rekindle friendships and to see how impressively VMI has grown in a number of ways.

I think that those widows who have attended past reunions have enjoyed the experience.

You will not be alone if you come.

My copy of the summer issue (2013-Issue 3) of the Alumni Review arrived while I am putting the final items on these notes, and I noted the excellent account, with accompanying photograph, of the 70th Reunion of the Class of 1943. Jeff Smith gives us an idea of what we might expect for our 70th. With 10 Brother Rats in attendance, the class of 1943 has set a standard for us for us to match or exceed.

As I get more into the class agent’s role, the more I appreciate those who have gone before me in this position. Accordingly, I thought that it would be fitting to name them in these notes, together with a hearty thank you again, for all that they have done in the past to keep us together and bring us to a 70th Reunion.

Listed in order from the start, they are: Don Burdon, Cliff Bain, Taz Ellett, Burt Short (twice), Spots Colonna, Gus Whitehurst, Stu Bolling (twice), Tommy Hupp, Sanford Cooke, Willie Stagg, Art Taylor, John Irby, Joe Johnston, and of course, Egypt Jones.

2013-Issue 4

Word has been received that Salvatore Joseph Dominic Morena, 88, died on May 21, 2013. Sal first came to VMI during WWII as an Army student under the Army Specialized Training Program (ASTP). He was sufficiently impressed with VMI that he returned after the war, completed his civil engineering studies and graduated with many of us in 1947. After graduation, he was employed by the Hughes Aircraft Company in California. Although not a Brother Rat in the conventional sense, at the urging of the Alumni Association for every graduate to be a member of a specific class, he was adopted by our class. Sal entered into the spirit of a loyal alumnus, attending our class reunions and supporting the VMI Alumni Agencies.

We have also learned of the death of Nancy Ewing Martenstein, 88, in Charlotte, NC. She was the widow of our late Brother Rat Austin Martenstein. The Martensteins lived in Richmond for many years and later moved to Charlotte in 1974. Austin was an executive with Republic Steel, later LTV Steel Co. Mrs. Martenstein’s survivors include a son, Thomas Ewing Martenstein ’71, a daughter, Nancy Lynn Martenstein and a brother-in-law, Thomas Brackett Martenstein ’54. I have expressed the sympathies of our class to the family.

I received a nice note from Nell Watt thanking me for her class of 1944 birthday (July 4) card, in which she said that as a young child she thought that all of the fireworks, parades, etc., were for her in celebration of her birthday. Nell, when one reaches a certain age, it’s OK to still think that. Nell wrote Egypt that she loves her VMI memories, which constantly remind her of all the wonderful experiences which she and Bob enjoyed together. She still lives in her house and stays busy with family and many longtime friends.

Meade Bell reports that he and Ginny have moved from their home in Chevy Chase, MD, to Annapolis. If my memory serves me correctly, Meade lived in the Chevy Chase home since shortly after WWII, so that must have been some move. At this point in time, most of us have gone through some sort of down-sizing, or are like me, wondering what in the world to do with all of this stuff that the children don’t want.

Margaret Irby recently had surgery, and at last report, the road to recovery through a rehab program of exercises is going well.

Our thoughts and prayers go for her continued improvement.

Jim Hammond called from his home in Woodstock, GA, mainly just to report in. He and Pat are doing well and hope to attend our 70th Reunion.

I continue intermittent contact with Egypt Jones who, after passing the class agent’s assignment on to me, seems to find himself busier than ever. I am beginning to suspect that he likes it that way. Apparently, Egypt and Faye were considering moving to an apartment in their retirement community but have decided to remain at their present place.

That’s one way to solve a down-sizing problem. Egypt quotes Ezra Trice, when asked whether he was going to keep his two houses, “Yes, I like to keep my stuff.” Again, Egypt wants to thank all of our Brother and Sister Rats for their generous contributions to the Bob and Faye Jones Scholarship in his honor.

Egypt passed along the following items, which he has recently received: Rose Tucker wrote that she enjoys her condo and has family folks do the driving to get around Richmond for necessary shopping, getting to church and other meetings with friends. She said that her VMI memories are wonderful.

In a letter, Betty Metcalf wrote that she is enjoying life in her retirement community and really appreciates receiving the Alumni Review every quarter as it reminds her that she’s still part of the VMI family. That is truly sweet music to our ears.

Sophie Parker wrote that she does on occasion visit friends in her home town of Portsmouth and in the Tidewater area, which reminds her of the many good times she spent there years ago when she and Charlie lived in the area. Her son Charles III is a captain in the Naval Reserve, now operating out of Norfolk.

Mary Stagg wrote that she is still living in the house she and Willie shared for so many great years together. The memories make it very difficult to move to WestminsterCanterbury in Richmond, which she admits would enhance her life.

Last month, Bob Smothers sent a great picture of himself and Mei in front of a B-17 Flying Fortress at the Eighth Air Force Museum in Savannah, GA. Earlier I had asked Bob to see what he could find out about Jack Merchant, whose mail was being returned.

So far, he has been unable to solve the mystery. If anyone else can offer a suggestion or 33

CLASS NOTES a clue, please let me hear from you.

Upon recently learning of the death of Dick Meade, Ezra Trice reminisced about a chance meeting that he had with Dick and his father in New York, upon returning to the U.S. following the end of the war in Europe in 1945. A meal on the town was proposed with Ezra having the thought of a juicy steak in mind. Alas, they were to learn that it was “Meatless Tuesday” in New York. They had to settle for a Chinese restaurant. Quoting Ezra, “ … but it was good and we made up for it with a few drinks. It was a memory that has stuck with me over the years.”

There is an undertaking at VMI called the Brick Program, which recognizes donors of $2,500, in cash, to VMI by placing a clay brick, with the donors name inscribed, in the sidewalk adjacent to the Barracks. The bricks are grouped by class, with our class located in the sidewalk on the west side of the Old Barracks, between Jackson Arch and Jackson Memorial Hall. The program started in 1998 as part of VMI’s comprehensive capital campaign, Reveille, A Call to Excel.

Brother Rats who have donated $2,500 in cash since July 1, 1998, have been afforded the opportunity to have a brick in their name in the class of 1944 section. As of this date, 61 of these bricks have been placed. There remains an opportunity for living members of our class who have not yet chosen this means of recognition to make the necessary donation. Additionally, members of our class whose death precluded this opportunity may be memorialized by a gift of $2,500 from a family member, former roommate, friend, etc. The vast majority of our class is not currently included in this program, with most having died before the program started. I consider this absence of recognition most unfortunate. We have always been a tight group, hanging together in spite of being broken up in 1943. It will be my goal to get many more of our Brother Rats honored in this program. I will need your help to do this.

I am still gathering appropriate information on the Brick Program with the intent of providing all on our mailing list with details of a more complete description of the program, the names of those currently honored in the program and of those who have not been included. I hope to have this in the mail in the coming weeks.

We are currently in communication with 31 Brother Rats and 46 widows. This com34

munication seems to be mostly a one-way thing, but occasionally someone like Art Taylor makes my day by sending a nice long letter telling me about his and Bonnie’s recent activities. Please let me hear from you whenever you can.

Stay well and remember, the great class of 1944 cares!

’45

Richard A. Matheis

An inspiration of John Williams is about to come to fruition. When we were together in Lexington back in November during the class agent meeting, he mentioned it to me.

He suggested our class make arrangements for a plaque on the wall of the Memorial Gardens (just south of the original Barracks) dedicated to our Brother Rats who died in the service during WWII and Korean War. I totally agreed with the concept and as class agent, requested the installation of the plaque.

I learned this is a daunting multi-layered process covered by the VMI General Orders.

In an effort to expedite the situation, I enlisted the aid of BR Sam Walker. Good move. All of a sudden, it was doable in our lifetime.

Better yet, it should be wrapped up before our 70th Reunion.

This will be a bronze plaque listing the names of 18 of our BRs who lost their lives in WWII and one in Korea, plus appropriate wording and the names of our class officers.

The estimated cost is $1,500. Contributions will be greatly appreciated and can be sent to John or me. His address is 13 Ellensview Circle, Richmond, VA, 23226.

I talked to Charlotte Walker recently. She told me they had just celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary and followed with a story about Sam that I never heard before.

During the time, he was the superintendent of VMI and there was an event attended by both cadets and faculty. A person dressed as a kangaroo entered the room and cavorted around awhile. Finally, the kangaroo stopped and removed its head – it was Sam! On a personal note, a year ago, Sandra and I laid plans for a change in lifestyle similar to that which many of you have already experienced; we decided to downsize. We purchased a condominium located on one of two Naples’ inlets from the Gulf of Mexico.

All there is between our living and dining room windows and the water is seawall and 50 feet of grass - we love it. We later put our old home on the market and, fortunately, sold it rather quickly to Johnny Bench, a wellknown baseball personality.

Shortly after we moved in, Sandra called out to me to quickly come down to the living room to see something out on the water.

Thinking that perhaps the dolphins were putting on a show, I did as she asked. Much to my initial disappointment, it was just a couple of boats heading out to the gulf. Upon further review, I noted the first boat was a sleek offshore racer with a bevy of beautiful bikini-clad blondes on the bow with a single male at the helm, followed by a smaller boat with a guy by himself. The second boat’s name was Lucky. Sandra’s point was the girls were on the wrong boat!

During the past three years, I have received many interesting letters, some very emotional. Due to space considerations, I had to resort to publishing only excerpts. Those that come to mind quickly were from the wives of Paul Lewis and Bucky Redwine. To make up for my erring ways, I’ll try to include letters in their entirety in the future – starting now.

Let’s start with our great white hunter in Lexington, Bob Moore.

“Thanks so much for your dedication to keeping the’45s informed. Libby and I are still ‘hanging in there,’ but it seems more slowly every month. We are thankful for the good health we have had over the years.

We still live in our 145-year-old house just outside Lexington. Our daughter, Maxine, and her husband live in Marburg, Germany.

We have three grandchildren and one greatgrandson by them. Our son, Robert, and his wife live here in Lexington. We have three grandchildren by them. Robert is a doctor (osteopathy). I am still getting out to wild turkey hunt and to fish. We have a vegetable garden, and a yard and surrounding area to mow with an old 1949 tractor. Many thanks again for time and excellent coverage of ’45.

Sincerely, Bob and Libby.”

And now, a sample of the dry humor so typical of our far western correspondent located in Casper, WY, Bob Pettigrew.

“I have yours of July 7, 2013 – you have about sucked me dry of news. It’s a cop-out I know, but I’m responding with a biography prepared back in 2006 for whatever that might be worth. Since 2000, I’ve been ‘retired’ in VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES the fullest sense of the word – pretty much out of the loop of everyday activities. We’ve done some traveling; I read a lot from time to time, do some personal writing – pretty bland stuff for class notes. Yet, I sympathize with your recurring need for information.

It’s not an easy thing when your only source is a bunch of late octogenarians (and some nonagenarians, too, by now). Despite that, among class agents you are a class act and appreciated far more than you know. Also appreciated is the copy of mailing labels you sent. My listing is correct.”

Bob’s biography is quite lengthy due to his many executive positions held over the years plus numerous civic activities including mayor of Casper. It is a very impressive listing.

In a separate note, Bob recommended a book entitled Generals by Ricks, involving the principal generals of WWII and their relationships to one another. It was particularly complimentary to G.C. Marshall ’901.

He added a footnote as follows, “Had a call from my old roommate, Jim Adams, a couple of weeks ago – just a long chat about old memories, and Jim sounds just as young and upbeat as he did more than 60 years ago.”

On to BR Doug Quarles. I received a very nice note recently from his wife, Kitty. She stated, “Thanks for all the news you rally from Doug’s VMI brothers and wives. We enjoy your letters so much.

“Doug is still playing tennis once and sometimes twice a week. He spends a lot of time looking at pictures and books from his days at VMI and his days in the service overseas.

They seem to be his world these days.

“Connie and Danny Walser spent some time at Bethany Beach with us this summer.

Doug and Danny played gin rummy and told stories about their days with their roommates, Bailey, Pussey and Pat Wen. Sounded like good years for all.”

The mention of Pat Wen caught my attention immediately. I recently started recalling Pat and how he practiced his soccer techniques by playing handball with his feet in the gym, which, in itself, was quite a feat (no pun intended.) If my memory serves me correctly, his father was a general in the Chinese National Army, which was in exile in Taiwan at the time.

I wondered why he was never listed on our class records. I got most of the answers from Jim Morgan. He told me Pat always 2013-Issue 4

considered himself a member of the ’44 class.

As a result of my inquiry to Kitty regarding Pat, I received a second note. The rest of the picture then came into focus. I quote Kitty (she was prompted by Doug). “When Pat was assigned to Doug’s room, he was a third class Rat. He already had his freshman year of college but had not gone through the Ratline. That’s how he got to be a roommate of Doug’s. He did not room with the class of ’45 thereafter.”

After graduation, according to Kitty, Pat married a very petite and attractive lady named Patricia. The Quarleses and the Walsers visited with the Wens on a yearly basis until Pat died about two years ago. Prior to then, he was located in Washington, D.C., as a member of the Taiwan Procurement Offices. The Wens had two children. Their son attended VMI and their daughter was an accomplished pianist.

And now, an e-mail from Gordon Merrick, son of our deceased BR, Tom Merrick.

“Unfortunately after receiving your latest request for information, I am saddened to report that my mother, Margery D. Merrick, passed away on May 23, 2013. I am sure she would have wanted me to notify you and all of Dad’s Brother Rats. Her epitaph reads, ‘When the music stopped, she kept dancing.’ Best to all of Tom’s Brothers and Sisters of the class of ’45. Regards, Gordon Merrick.”

Another note received – this one from Sheila Burress in Oceanside, CA. “My husband is the son of Richard Parks Burruss Sr., one of your classmates. You have so kindly included his mother in receiving your newsletter over the years since Grandad’s passing in 1987. Our family has enjoyed reading about the alumni and all their goings-on.

Joyce Burress, Jim’s wife, passed away July 21, 2013. With her being gone, we would like to request you continue to send newsletters to our family. Thank you for the great stories and updates. Wish so much Richard and Joyce were still with us to enjoy them too.” (This was included principally due to the unusual nature of the request. I am sending on her request to the Alumni Association).

There are more letters and notes, but I’m about to go over my space allotment and I still have the final installment of reviewing the history of former and living class agents.

This former class agent did a great job in the years of 2005-10 – John “Cowboy” Williams.

John sent me a resume of his military, educational and business experiences following

his being called to active duty while attending VMI in May 1943. He was assigned to the 84th Division of the Army and fought all over Western Europe including the Battle of the Bulge. He was a tech sergeant and received a Bronze Star plus a Presidential Unit Citation during the course of his service. After the war, he returned to VMI in January 1946 and graduated in June 1948.

He then became a plant engineer for Brown and Williamson in Petersburg followed by assuming the position of president of the family business, Williams Slate Company in June 1950. In January 1964, he established Williams Crane and Rigging, Inc., of which he was president and chairman of the board.

He and his company received many awards, locally and nationally, for unusually difficult and unique accomplishments in the fields of rigging and construction – way beyond my comprehension. Very impressive.

Bad news from South Carolina. We lost a great guy, A.B. Windham, on June 3rd. Our condolences to Sally and family members.

Time for the wrap-up. A number of you are starting to think and talk about the 70th Reunion. That’s good and a very healthy approach at our age! Keep up the good work.

As a word of caution, let me quote from the last page of the printed pages of the class roster received by those who attended the 65th Reunion.

“The 65th Reunion may be the last ‘well attended’ gathering of the Great Class of ’45.

Alumni Association records reveal that the 70th Reunion of classes 1935 through 1939 averaged but seven alumni attendees.

“This class reunion roster will be the last to be prepared by the undersigned, Jim Morgan, class historian.”

I am betting that we will beat that average by a mile or two for these reasons:(1) We currently are 39 strong, (2) the reunion is one-and-a-half years from now, (3) during the two-and-a-half years I have been your class agent, I’ve spoken to most of you at one time or another, and as a group you all sound pretty healthy to me, (4) lastly, we are the class of ’45!

Regards, plus God bless VMI and the class of ’45, Dick P.S. No pictures this time. The ’42 Bomb and source of copying pictures in format required by the Alumni Review are both in Naples, FL, and we are in St. Louis. Sorry.

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CLASS NOTES

’47

Gus Robbins

The week of July 21, 2013, marked the 60th anniversary of the Korean War cease-fire and armistice. It is fitting and a good time to remember our Brother Rats, many of whom served in Korea and many who gave the last full measure of devotion to our country in this forgotten war. The Brother Rats of ’47 lost more members than any other VMI class during this war. KIA were Patteson Gilliam Aug. 22, 1950, John W. Timmins Jr. Nov. 19, 1950, Howell G. Thomas Jr. July 14, 1950, Robert N. Smith Sept. 24, 1951, John O. Bates June 12, 1952, and John Barkley died in a flight training accident on Nov. 27, 1951.

For anyone interested, there is an excellent article about the forgotten war in the Richmond Times Dispatch on Thursday, August 1, page 11. Paul Greenberg, the author, can be reached for comments at pgreenberg@ arkansasonline.com. The article features Marine Lt. Gen. Lewis “Chesty” Puller ’921.

Our late and beloved, Bill Hallett, often said that you don’t know cold until you have been on a mountain top in Korea working as an artillery FO in temps 15-20 degrees below zero with a 30 mph wind blowing!

It is well at the time to include in our memory our Brother Rats, George D. Akers KIA in Germany April 18, 1945, just three weeks before the cease-fire ending WWII; and also remember Joseph P. Seymoe Jan. 21, 1968, KIA at the beginning of the Vietnam War. Our class was split up so badly by WWII; we didn’t get to know many of our BRs very well, so it is remarkable that the bonds of memory and affection have survived these 70 years. My memory of Red Akers is centered on our Rat riding class. Red was one of the few BRs who really knew how to ride, and he did quite well under the commandant Col. “Crew John” Frey. Most of the BRs would agree with Bully Butterworth that you really haven’t lived until you went to Rat riding under “Crew John” after a lunch of green hot dogs and sauerkraut at the VMI mess hall. Do you remember John Barkley?

After we were out of the Ratline, his running around Barracks with a sheet for a cape calling himself the “White Roach!” Memories, oh memories!

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Over the years, one of the regular contributors to our class notes has been Jorge Sarmiento from Lima, Peru. He again reports on a most interesting visit to Peru this year by a group of VMI alumni and two cadets from the class of 2015 there on a mission trip.

Jorge’s report follows verbatim.

“Dear Gus, I have the pleasure to report that last Friday (May 31) I met a group of VMI alumni plus two cadets (2015) who came for a short visit to Lima. Delia and I had a very nice lunch with them at Miraflores Social Club (a residential district of Lima); a lot of remembrances of our dear old Institute were brought up, including the showing of a picture of Gen. Marshall ’901 and my father (autographed by the general) when Dad was Peruvian Military Attaché in Washington, D.C. You see, at a meeting, Marshall recommended that my father send me to VMI since there were no appointments for young Peruvians at West Point (a very old story).

The group was on a VMI alumni mission trip to Ayacucho, Peru, up in the hills at 9,000 feet, where there is a ministry led by two VMI men from the class of 1980, Patrick McCarthy and his wife, Roni, and Walter Wood and his wife, Mary Lynne. (Walt and Mary Lynne have been our good friends for several years; Delia and I always celebrate Founders Day with them.) Those who came were Col. James “Chap” Park, chaplain of the Corps; Eric Hunter ’08, Alumni Association; Michael Hale and Steven Trayer, both cadets and class of 2015; and Patrick and Walt ’80 who are old timers in Peru. There was another alumnus (in Peru), Erick Ensley ’94, a teacher at Roosevelt School, which is an old American school in Lima that three of my grandchildren have graduated from and a fourth one will graduate from in 2014. Ensley couldn’t make it for lunch.

We had a grand time, and after lunch went to visit another Peruvian alumnus, David Bird ’54, but he was very ill and could not see us. We left him a VMI flag and a key holder. David’s wife, Yolanda, called Delia in the evening and told her that he was very moved to receive the flag. Of course, I told the boys you were my boss and class agent.

I was very, very sorry to learn about Marty Hallett passing away, I was real close to Bill and her. Would you send me the names of their three daughters so I can send them a special note?

With affection to you and Betty Lane, Delia

and I wish the best for you both. Jorge ’47.”

A very nice note from Carol White reports on some recent activities that involved our late BR Dick White. Dick and Carol had split their time between Natchitoches, L.A., and Florida. Carol attended the 65th Reunion of Dick’s law class at UVa held at the Boar’s Head Inn in Charlottesville, VA. There were eight of the class in attendance and she had a fine time being with the guys and their wives. On Memorial Day she attended the dedication of a new Veterans Memorial Park in Natchitoches, and Dick’s name was called and listed in the program – a touching event for all.

June Turner reports that life remains about the same on the Isle of Palms, SC, even though Bob is gone. She appreciated so much the contributions to the Preston Library by the BRs in Bob’s memory.

June 1 brought a great letter from Jock Maggard in Mountain Lake, FL. Jock and Nancy have continued to split their time between New Rochelle, NY, and Florida but have sold the New York house and will be looking to downsize there soon. They raised eight children and enjoy 18 grandchildren and three greats. All these families have strong ties to the Episcopal/Angelican faith and are very active in their dioceses. The children have been quite successful in the worlds of education and business as well.

The third generation seems to be off to a good start with a grandson who just graduated from USNA and is starting flight training in Pensacola, FL. The Mountain Lake community in Florida owns 500 acres of citrus groves, so Jock reminds his BRs to drink plenty of “Florida Natural” orange juice. Jock also sends regards to his Rat year roommates Peter Burks, Rives Fleming and Norman Tonkin.

It was just great to receive such a long newsy update from you, Jock.

Sarah Newsom has just returned from her annual motor trip to Colorado to visit son Jimmy and family, and this year she was accompanied by daughter Bootie and her husband, Peter McGinnis. They stopped in Des Moines, Iowa, for a few days where Peter had a conference with the U.S. Olympic Committee, Track and Field Division, and then had eight days in Colorado. They returned home via the northern route through South Dakota and the Badlands, the forests of Minnesota, and the lakes of Wisconsin, seeing some of the most beautiful scenery in the U.S.A. VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Bettie Jacobsen loves cruising on the small barges of Europe’s rivers and canals and has just returned from Germany. Bettie says it is much better to sit on the barge deck and sip a drink than to follow the barge on the bicycle path! When she is at home in Richmond, she plays league croquet twice a week and works out at the gym regularly – would be nice if we could all be that active! Bettie and Jean Salley got together this summer for a good visit over lunch and caught up on the news. Jean has some knee problems but is putting off surgery as long as she can.

Brother Rats and Sisters – please remember I can only report on news you send me, so keep those cards, letters and e-mails coming! Here’s wishing you all a great fall season, and who knows, maybe this year VMI will have a winning season!

’48A

Dale E. Wykoff

We were deeply saddened to hear of the death of our much-respected Brother Rat, Commander Don Florence, USN, on April 14, 2013. After two years at VMI, he was offered and accepted a scholarship to play football at the U.S. Naval Academy. He later earned an M.A. degree from George Washington University. Don experienced ongoing ill health in his later years and was under the care of his daughter, Deborah Pianka,

Class of 1948A: Don Florence at the 60th Reunion in 2008.

for the last seven years. We last saw Don at our 60th Reunion in 2008. He was buried at the Naval Academy in Annapolis. With the loss of Don, we now have nine surviving Brother Rats.

Our 65th Reunion in April 2013, was attended by John Trumbo, Paul Stagg and Dale Wykoff.

Attending were: John’s wife, Barbara; Paul’s wife, Sarah; and their daughter, Valerie Ford. Dora Meler, daughter of our Brother Rat Ted Meler was, as in the past, a very welcome addition.

’49A

James Harrington

Class of 1948A: 65th Reunion Snapshot

At the 65th Reunion were from left, Joellyn Schwarzmann, wife of VMI Alumni Association Information Officer Matt Schwarzmann’90; Barbara Trumbo; Dora Meler; and John Trumbo.

2013-Issue 4

Col. Stan Millimet died July 22 after a lingering illness. Stan had 30 years of Army service, including service in Korea and Vietnam and was awarded numerous decorations. Several years ago, his children honored him by establishing a scholarship fund at VMI. I sent our usual class flowers – three roses, one red, one white and one yellow – to his funeral. Sunny has written to thank the class. Here’s some of her letter: “(Stan’s) master’s degrees were in logistics (via the Air Force) and business. His postmilitary job was with the tank division of Chrysler, and when General Dynamics replaced Chrysler, he became program manager for the Abrams tank for Egypt. He retired from GD in 1994. He was a military person through and through– loved his country and loved what he did. He was a student of history and could have taught anything from the Civil War forward. He always tried to induce any young person with which he spoke, including our grandchildren, to go to VMI, but never succeeded. He was buried in his dress blues. He loved you all and VMI. Best wishes, everyone. Sunny.”

We’ll miss our talks, our e-mails and our friendship. So long, soldier!

At my request, Bill May represented us at the Class Agent Conference this spring.

Here’s his report: “As usual it was an event marked by astonishment at the many positive changes that the Institute has enacted since the class of ’49A graduated. I was impressed by the leadership of all those who are now in charge of VMI’s future. I was blown away by the individual cadet physical fitness programs and training facilities for all cadets. Certain rewards and honors go to those who excel. VMI now stands very near the top in the schools in its class as to excellence in academics. As to expansion of the physical plant, the Post is now a city within a city. New buildings and newly refurbished older buildings are supporting a very modern updated curriculum, a curriculum that includes many long-term aspects. I urge my ’49A BRs to visit the Institute and see for yourself a sort of miracle that is now happening. When I visit the Post now, I can’t avoid the crazy thought that I would like once again to be a new cadet just beginning the VMI experience.

“Dolores and I will be cruising the New England islands with the American Cruise Line in June. We have vacation cruised with 37

CLASS NOTES them for many years. I plan to be teaching this fall “Arab-Israeli” conflict stuff and mid-eastern politics.”

Here’s Allen Penniman’s report: “When I receive your letter concerning the fact that our class notes are due, I mark it on my calendar so I will not be late. I continue to realize that if I don’t write things down, they are quickly gone from my mind. After I mark the date, I then look back at what Joanie and I have done since I last wrote or for the last three months. This is the system that I use for responding to your request.

This time, it has been a bit different because I have searched and searched, and I find nothing of great importance to report to our class. What we have spent our time doing the last three months is a quick visit here or there to see family members, or even better, to have one or two of the grandchildren visit for a weekend. This is a good thing because it gives us a chance to visit with the child, share our experiences and hear about the exciting lives they all seem to live. They excel in school and travel constantly. I am just amazed at our younger generation and how advanced they are. Their exposure to all things in life is many times greater than what I experienced when I was growing up. One of them asked me the other day what my SAT score was. I felt like telling them I was just too smart to have been required to take it. As we all know, it wasn’t given in our day, and thank goodness! They have been to school in Scotland, Italy and Spain and a number of fine colleges and universities here in the states. As I write, I have one vacationing in Indonesia and two granddaughters who have just returned from a vacation in Jamaica. I have never been to any of these places and what’s more, I don’t have a real desire to go. Good for them, and I am happy they are so inclined.

I guess it is just a function of age and comfort, because Joanie and I find ourselves staying home a lot more these days, and that’s not a bad thing. We have more time to ourselves, which is very enjoyable and pleasant. But that is the way it is, and the only problem I find, is that it leaves me too little to write about when Harrington calls for class notes. Sorry!

I was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Stan Millimet. He was a good member of our class and just an all-around good guy.

We are growing fewer by the year and he is 38

one I will certainly miss.

Joanie and I are fine and we continue to enjoy good health. This is our most wonderful gift of all. I send you my very best.”

As with the rest of us, the Harrington clan is all about family these days. Ann and I have six children, five of them married, and 13 grandchildren, the oldest of whom is “laboring” to present us with our first great-grandson. I’ll certainly send you all a bulletin when that happens.

Our son, who has Down syndrome, is happily living in an excellent group home near our youngest daughter (the doctor).

The other kids are employed, as are most of the grandchildren (except for the three youngest, who are just starting school). As a consequence of school schedules affecting our teacher children with work schedules and extended absences (our West Pointer just back from Afghanistan), our summer “Camp Chaos” has been anything but chaotic. Their visits have been few and far between this year. We have sometimes felt isolated – living off-shore on our island – but it gives us time to think about larger issues. While we are grateful that our extended family is whole and hearty, we do have concern for their future. We’re now too old to do much about it, except to try to inform and guide the younger generation in hopes that they can correct the trend. It’s their turn now.

Joe Fil sends good news! “Some very good things have happened in our neck of the woods. Susie is home, after nine months in hospitals and care facilities, and things are much better. She has been on 20-plus medications, but is coming off them one by one.

Sue is presently stuck in a wheel chair, but steadily improving in strength. She thinks in a positive way and is looking good. The family is all well, fully employed, and best of all, they still come home. While Sue was in the hospital, three grandsons (brothers) walked through her doorway one by one. They had flown out on the red eye special, and left the next day for home in Maryland. Joe and Paul, our two oldest, came out several times from Virginia and Alabama. Our two sons out here gave their mom a lot of support and visited frequently. We came very close to losing her, but Sue is definitely on the mend. The grandchildren are all doing well at their work or in college. Alexander is in Guatemala on a U.C. study program. Rebecca finished her work at U. of Alabama and is in Liberia on

a church mission. Paul Jr. and Natalie are in Rome having fun. Ariana visited her cousins in Maryland and visited New York. She loves the East Coast. Courtney was selected Miss Pacifica and is attending college with her brother Jonathan. Mary won a scholarship to the U. of Alabama and is interested in physics and engineering.

Now that the bureaucracy has permitted a purchaser for my little building, I’m pretty much retired. I resigned from my board position after more than 12 years. However, I’m still with the town public works group. Our little group of volunteers handles all public work emergencies from 5 p.m. to 9 a.m. and on weekends. They are a great group and very generous with their time.

I really enjoyed Allen’s letter in the last Review, which I just received. It’s a joy to know that the traditions are still being carried out and the excellent relationship he maintains with his family. I was very sad to learn of Stan’s passing. I had a premonition and called because he didn’t sound his old self on previous calls. I called the night he died, and of course, Sunny was with him. She returned my call with the sad news. Susie and I are deeply sorry. Stan was a real person, smart, eloquent, brave and always gracious.

We will miss him. Charlie Tiller and I keep in touch by phone. It is always good to hear his voice and to hear from Nancy. Thanks for passing on Herb’s letter – reading his events and learning that Jeannie is doing well. I know that editing my stuff is a chore.

(True.) Remember, I are an engineer and not an English major. Susie wants to see the Blue Ridge in the spring, so we plan to be back celebrating with you all at the reunion.”

Great letter, Joe, and good news indeed.

Keep it up – I don’t mind the editing. It’s also good to hear (indirectly) from Charlie Tiller.

Maybe he’ll update us some day.

And this from Herb Johnston: “We were very sorry to hear of the loss of Stan. Thanks for sending the flowers. We are going to Nags Head the September 1. Jeanne is doing better and we recently had our first dinner out since her illness started nine months ago.

We celebrated my 85th birthday! I’m looking forward to a busy fall/winter. Of course, there are OSU football, basketball, plays and concerts. I’m still on our church foundation board which I chaired last year. We regained our losses and more, so we are up to almost $8 million now. I chair a church usher group VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES also. I am active in Torch, a town and gown academic organization, Mended Hearts unit (we have the largest group in U.S.A. – all having had heart procedures) and a Battelle NAIC investment club. I am handyman around the house in which we have lived 53 years. I hope your fall/winter will be fun and active, too. Keep well!”

Keep well, indeed! “We few, we happy few … ”

’49B

Dan Smaw

These notes cover the period mid-May thru mid-August.

Again we begin by reporting the death of a Brother Rat. On July 19, 2013, Tom diZerega died in his sleep. Tom had been in poor health for a number of years. He is survived by a daughter, Mary, and three grandchildren. Services were held on July 26 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Upperville, VA, with interment at Trinity Cemetery. Our condolences go to his family for their loss.

Ding and Nobbie Patton, Mack and Inge Van Hook and Bill Stribling attended funeral services for Deegee Watling on 15 May in McLean, VA. A reception was held following the service, and internment at Arlington National Cemetery took place at a later date.

Margaret Lee Overton wrote in May that she, her daughter and two granddaughters were going to Williamsburg for a four-day visit. This was to be in lieu of a summer cruise this year. She also sent a clipping with the picture of the girl who is engaged to Selden Stephens grandson, Frank Talbott, who is from Richmond.

George Dooley called in May to say that he again had gone to VMI to present the Alonzo J. Walter Award to the top Air Force ROTC graduate. He said the awards ceremony this year ran smoother than it had in the past few years.

Margaret Lee Overton sent an article from the Richmond paper about Benedictine moving from their home of a hundred years to a new location several miles away. There was a picture of Greg Nelson who had been first captain there prior to becoming a ’49B Rat, quite a come down.

Hotz Lardon called in late May saying he 2013-Issue 4

would be making a trip to Houston in the next week. If you remember, Hotz is not much a fan of flying, but figured he could do it without too much trouble. He has been having quite a few dental problems. He is looking forward to the 65th.

Rose Anne Hurd wrote in June that Clint had a CT scan that showed his initial cancer tumors had grown. He was to start a new chemo treatment right away. In addition, he has been dealing with arthritic joint pain and muscular pain. Betty Lu Stephens had been there pampering him with shrimp and fresh tuna. Betty Lu went back home, and Clint’s sister took over cooking seafood since Rose Anne does not eat fish and doesn’t cook it very well. We wish you well in your fight to regain your health, Clint.

In July, Harv Bradley wrote that he and Barbara had downsized again and moved into a ranch condo at 120 Chastain Rd. Unit 1104, Kennesaw, GA, 30144. Their daughter thought of everything – there is a cemetery on the premises which could be useful at a much later date. Phone and e-mail remained the same. He is planning on the 65th.

Their youngest son, Colby, works for Norfolk Southern railroad and recently took a short vacation to the Hawaiian Islands – Harv doesn’t think he can claim a business trip since he does not know of any railroads on the islands.

Tom Cooke wrote that he and Virginia spent a recent weekend at Virginia Beach with his brother. They had a great time – sun and salt water felt good even with the 90-degree heat.

I had a long chat with Vaughn Maxwell recently. He sounded good and said he was having a good week. His spirits are good, his appetite is good and feels things are going in the right direction. He still talks to Nux Enochs from time to time, as well as to the Shelley kids.

In mid-August, I talked with Lon and Doris Walter and found them doing well and enjoying living in the Army Residences Community in San Antonio. Doris is not too thrilled with the extreme heat they have been having along with the lack of rain. Their daughter, Terry, visited a couple of weeks ago and they were expecting their daughter, Beverly, the day we were talking.

Ding and Nobbie Patton called to say they were back from their vacation in Florida.

They stopped by to see Boyd Guttery and

found him getting around slowly, caused by the interruption of his therapy due to the recent passing of his son, Darryl, in Atlanta.

Our condolences to Boyd and his family on their loss.

Ding ran into Tommy Altizer recently coming out of Wal-Mart, but they didn’t have time for much conversation. Ding continues with his walking, either outside or on a treadmill – mine these days is on a treadmill.

We missed going to the Outer Banks for the first time in 10 years, because Louise fell in early June and broke two bones in her ankle. Following surgery she could not put any weight on that leg for six weeks, so that put her in a rehab facility for six weeks She is now home and can walk with a “boot” for two weeks, then just use a walker and be sure not to fall.

Charlie Upshaw and I had a lengthy conversation covering quite a bit of ground.

Charlie always calls on July 11 to remind me that that was our Matriculation Day. We both remembered that the following days, when we were on the parade ground learning how to be and look military, it was quite hot. He said he is getting along OK and does some yard work as well as walking at least a mile every day.

I hope all of you have blocked out March 23-25, 2014, for our 65th Reunion and plan to be there. Thanks to all who have contributed to Annual Giving.

God bless America, VMI and ’49B.

’49C

Haywood France

There is little to report this quarter. I hope that means everyone had a great summer vacation and did not experience any major interruptions while they attempted to write us about their adventures.

Thirteen of our 16 BRs and 6 of our 15 SRs answered the question concerning reunion plans. Thus far, the count is 21 as possible attendees.

I had a phone conversation with Marshall Brittain in June. He and Anita were planning to attend a family reunion in mid-July.

They, like the rest of us, were still plugging along and were looking forward to the 65th in March 2014.

39

CLASS NOTES I received notice that Robert A. Moncure (Cappie) died Sunday morning, Aug. 18, 2013. I didn’t receive any further information, other than when the services were planned to be held.

’50A

Bill Moore

Dick Mandt is still in an assisted living facility near his home in Mooresville, NC. He says the people are nice but he’s getting tired of it. His son, Richard, who is recovering from a stroke, is doing nicely but doesn’t feel that he is quite yet able to take care of his father on a 24/7 basis.

Dick says he’s feeling good and apart from not being at home he’s doing well. Barbara (Hugh) Barnes reports that she is still doing volunteer work at the local hospital but may cut back a little in the future. Her son, Clark ’87, recently completed the certification course to be a volunteer firefighter and was named the honor graduate. Quite an accomplishment considering the physical rigor of the course and that all the other students were much, much younger. She misses driving but is very happy being in the assisted living facility that she now calls home.

Jackie (Dick) Martin just got home from a river cruise in France. She and a friend had two and one half days in Monte Carlo and Monaco before going to Nice and boarding a boat for Arles, Van Gough’s stomping ground. They went up the Rhone to Viviers, Vienne, Avignon and lots of other interesting places. Now that’s my idea of a great tour. She’s safely back in Spokane after a hair-raising experience getting there by air. Not dangerous, just messy. The airlines partially made it up to her by flying her elite first class on the last leg of her journey home. In April, Harriett and Jennings Bunch visited his daughter in Bluffton, SC, near Hilton Head. They now have two great-grandchildren with two more on the way. I suppose Anne and I were just slow. No prospects for greatgrandchildren for me anytime soon.

I’m so excited that I can hardly write these notes. I’m going to Pennsylvania to visit Jennings and Harriett the last of this 40

month (August). Up and back, I plan to visit Joanne (Ed) Miller, BJ and Kenny Stagg and Barbara Barnes and perhaps Mary Ripley, if I get lucky. What a wonderful trip!

I plan to include the VMI-Richmond game at the end. I need a trip to visit old friends just now. Kenny tells me that BJ is working herself into a stew. Apparently, real estate is to the point where it no longer is “buyer beware” but the onus is completely on the seller, and that means that the seller’s agent has to be sure everything is up to snuff. It must be a terrible strain on someone as conscientious as BJ. Joanne Miller is busy helping her daughter, Maria, get the last of Joanne’s grandchildren off to college.

Mary (Joe) Ripley is still involved in her painting. I’ve seen two examples of her work and she is doggone good. I couldn’t paint anything more sophisticated than a barn, but I know good art when I see it, as anyone who has been to my house can verify. I’ve just got to see more examples of her work. Gene Witcher and I are conspiring to take a trip to Key West next winter.

Technically, I believe we have to have a third party to qualify as a conspiracy. Isn’t that so? Any volunteers to be the third party so we can qualify? A few years ago, Anne went to Key West with my brother, Herman, who you may remember from our running the block days. He’s the one who brought the Moore family car up and slept in my hay. I was tied up and couldn’t go with them. The tales they brought back about Mallory Dock, the green flash and the old conchs themselves were fascinating. Gene sounds great and is looking forward to our “adventure” as am I. Nancy (Hank) McWane is still very busy with her beautiful farm and property in Forest, VA. She says she has no news, but she does have twice a year visits from both of her daughters whom she looks forward to hosting. Recently I had a wonderful conversation with Charlotte (Harold) Logsdon.

She sounds great just like she always has.

Full of fun and interesting things to talk about. She was in Washington, D.C., sometime in June. I wish I could have seen her.

She is still very independent and loves to go places. She’s gutsy as always and doesn’t mind traveling alone. She says sometimes she even prefers it. She is looking forward to our 65th Reunion and so am I. It’s not too early to be thinking about it. Spring

2015 will be here before we know it. Nan and Elliott Hudgins are still enjoying New Bern, NC. They get out and around in the area to eat out and visit but don’t attempt any long trips. Although Elliott is doing well, he is nursing a new state-of-the-art pacemaker that causes him to not want to stray too far from home base. Their children and grandchildren visit often, and I’m sure that helps keep them going. Mine certainly do. Even though a lot of us are on a dayat-a-time program, I find there is there is a lot of therapy in anticipation. Beverly and Syd Stealey are still homesteading in Alaska. Late this spring they made a trip to Yellowknife, Canada, and put almost 5,000 miles on their vehicle. I asked Syd about Beverly’s famous “50-mile butt” and he told me, “Oh, that’s only when she is flying.” Syd would like very much to make it to Lexington in 2015 for our 65th Reunion, if he can figure out how to do it. In stages, I guess. Syd is enjoying flying some again.

Nothing too complicated.

This will be the hardest part of these class notes for me to write. As most of you know, I lost my beloved Anne on June 8. She died as she lived – beautifully. No suffering or lingering. She remained mobile to the end.

Even though she had some dementia, her brain was still working and she had no personality changes. She was the same lovely sweet girl I talked into marrying me almost 58 years ago. Apparently, she had a hemorrhagic stroke. She spent her last evening with David, his two youngest girls, and me at the Keydet Club’s Annual Leadership Cookout. Oh how she loved that occasion – the people and the food.

Best meal she had every year. I can never thank the Keydet Club staff enough for her wonderful last evening. And, a special thanks to those of you who took the time to stop and chat with her. I miss her terribly.

I had planned to tell the story of the tragic death of Cadet Robert X. Pagliaro ’48B, who was killed Thanksgiving weekend in 1946 by a loaded Matthew, Mark, Luke or John. I’ve never known the Corps to feel so low as just after that event. VMI went on to lose the only Thanksgiving football game – we lost to Virginia Tech (VPI and other colorful names in those days) – over a seven-year span, including our cadetship, and just before and after. Perhaps next time.

I’ve had enough sorrow for this issue.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

’50B

Robert White

Vince Palazzo called me on June 13. He was so delighted that he had been to VMI, was a member of the class of 1950B and that he had lived to the 63rd anniversary of our graduation, that he just had to call somebody and tell them how pleased he was with all of those things. He fully intends to live until our 65th Reunion and join all able Brother Rats in that celebration.

Pete Meredith died on March 27, 2013.

His obituary appeared in the last Alumni Review. Pete was a distinguished cadet at VMI and followed up by being a distinguished graduate. He was a champion wrestler for four years and a good student as well. He was the chairman of the 25th Reunion committee which published the really great 1950B Bomb, 25th Edition. Most of us still have a copy. I knew Pete long before we became cadets because we were both from Norfolk.

Pete played basketball for Taylor Elementary School, I played for Meadowbrook and our teams played against each other. Promotion to the eighth grade ended both of our basketball careers.

I had a nice telephone conversation with Steve Abramides. Steve has had some fairly serious health problems along the way but remains cheerful. He actually received a postcard from his Ring Figure date and had hope of perhaps some further involvement.

Alas, it was not to be. I hope that he will be at our 65th. Steve is a good man and a credit to our class.

Tom and Norma Kelly say that everything is pretty much OK – that it is about as OK as things can be with the temperature at about 112 degrees. Their air conditioner was holding and nobody suggested going anywhere.

But, the kids are all OK and that counts for a lot. Tom’s arthritis makes moving very difficult but mentally he is still as sharp as ever.

Dick Leithiser enjoyed being at his place in the Adirondacks. He had just had cataract surgery when we talked and everything had turned out well. He had a family party for the Fourth of July, and everybody was there except one son who is a commercial pilot and could not attend because of flight duty.

Hoge wrote an amusing account of his 2013-Issue 4

and Ed Burwell’s call to active duty and their trip to Camp Breckinridge during the Korean War: “I have a lot of happy memories of Ed Burwell but one stands out – our remarkable journey to join the Army during the Korean War. We both got orders to report to Camp Breckinridge, KY, to join the 101st Airborne Division, on the same day (Oct. 25, 1950).

Bill Sweeney was also listed on my orders.

To get there, I took a bus to Covington, spent the night with Ed’s family and we took a train to Louisville the next day. After a couple of nights there, we got a bus to Breckinridge to report in for duty. Doesn’t sound exciting but it was.

A couple of months ago, I was going through some old files and came across a letter I had sent to my family regarding this trip.

You will note it is written on stationary from the Hotel Seelbach. Since you are familiar with Louisville, having married the prettiest girl ever to come out of that town, you will appreciate the fact that, being one of the finest hotels in the country, it was a somewhat expensive choice for a couple of brand new second lieutenants. It was, however, the best move we ever made. We stayed two nights.

From there we did the town in. Saw lots of sights, ate in the best restaurants and spent a good deal of time in an oak-paneled room/ bar in the hotel entertaining all who entered.

During this time, we made it a point to treat a special group of people to various libations including, as I recall, mint juleps. This group, as you may have guessed, consisted entirely of lovely young ladies who happened to wander into our den. We had a ball!

The second day was a repeat of the first. Ed got a uniform and to celebrate we decided to have dinner in the best French restaurant in town. We ate everything on the menu including a bottle of the best wine, that by my best estimate, the cost of which would have fed a family of four for a month in our hometown.

We had such a good time that during the dinner, in our euphoric moment, I suggested to Ed that rather than take a bus to Breckinridge, we should book a limousine to take us there. He thought that was a wonderful idea, but being older and wiser suggested it might be a good idea to check to see how much money we had left. Turned out we were dead broke. Good thing we hadn’t sold our bus tickets to Breckinridge. We took the bus!”

I spoke to Tom Handy and except for minor infirmities of old age he is well. We reminisced for a while about the times we spent together when we were both stationed at Fort Bliss, Texas.

Ajax Mitchell called. After reading the account of the lunch given by Mary Virginia Harwood and the other ladies in Richmond, his main regret was that he had not been there. I told him that I had the same regret.

We also talked about the minis that we had in Fort Myers and the dinners at his country club there. He is also looking forward to our 65th.

I had a letter from our Brother Rat, Fred Kniesler. He stayed only one year but his grandson, Peter Kniesler ’13, was graduated from VMI this year. Fred roomed with Randy Trappey in summer school. Fred lives in Allentown, NJ, and he says that he will see us in 2015. I sincerely hope so.

I also had a letter from Eddie Geregger ’14 who is now a first classman at the Institute.

His letter was written to express appreciation for the 1950B money that was helping to finance his college education, which he seems to be enjoying. He said that in his spare time he was reading The Creature of Jekyll Island, which is the non-fiction account of the formation and function of the Federal Reserve since 1912. Actually, I have read it and believe that the country would be better off with the abolition of the Federal Reserve.

As you all know, our 65th Reunion is coming up in two years. As you also know, that reunion will probably be the last one that will be attended by many of our Brother Rats. Because of that, and for other reasons, I think that we should try to make the occasion something special. Consequently, I have asked Braxton Green to be the chairman of the reunion committee and he has graciously consented to accept that job.

In addition to having present as many Brother Rats as possible, I hope that we can persuade our widowed Sister Rats to come.

If you have any thoughts or suggestions as to what can be done to make the occasion really special, please tell Braxton or me about them.

Ordinarily it would not occur to me to use this column to recommend a book. However, Thomas Jefferson, The Art of Power, written by Jon Meacham, is a book I think all Americans should read. It not only recounts 41

CLASS NOTES the history of our country during the time of Jefferson’s life, it gives a comprehensive account covering his brilliance and his faults.

After reading the book, my main conclusion about Jefferson was that he was the singular individual most influential in the formation of this democratic country at the time of its beginning. As you may know, there were people of substantial influence who believed that inherited position should be a part of government (John Adams believed that senatorial seats should be inherited). Hamilton thought that inherited offices were necessary for stability. Jefferson was adamant in his belief that the country should have no kind of inherited office.

’51

John Ross

This note covers the period May 12 to August 11, basically in sequential order.

I checked on Henry Bryan and learned that he and Joan are still in a convalescent facility that is close to their adult children.

I wished Henry Pitot in Madison, WI, a happy birthday and learned that he and Julie are doing well. He asked about Maurice King, and I furnished my current data.

I failed to reach Claud Eley in St. Louis with birthday greetings. I have not heard from Claud for some time and trust all is well.

I had a nice visit with Jim Close when I reached him on his birthday. He and Alice had just returned from a trip to the Netherlands.

I wished Gene Held in Shavano Park, TX, a happy birthday, and we had a long chat. Gene, who is a retired pedodontist, recounted how joyful his experience was in driving a school bus for children with disabilities. Gene keeps busy tending a large house and grounds but is fortunate to have three of his four adult children living nearby.

I left birthday greetings for Don Baldwin with his wife, Jody, who reports they are doing well and that she has recovered from her gall bladder surgery. Don called a few days later to thank me.

I wished Brom Nichol in Pensacola, FL, a happy birthday and learned that he is recovering from a bad fall (fractured femur and 42

bruising). Brom, who is a survivor of seven metastatic cancers, is fortunate to have three adult children residing in his area.

He reports my namesake, “Jack the Parrot,” is doing well, and he inquired about Jim Enochs and Bounce Carstens.

I was not able to reach Mrs. Ewing with birthday greetings as VMI does not have a telephone listing.

I received nice notes from Pat Gray, Parker and Mary Batsakis thanking me for the memorial remembrances to VMI for their husbands, our Brother Rats.

I wished Venetia Friend in Montrose, AL, a happy birthday. She is doing well and was looking forward to the granting of a Ph.D. in psychology to her son. A few days later Venetia called for the address of the Institute.

I wished Audrey Wick in Arlington, TX, a happy birthday and learned she is doing well. We reminisced about Bob’s interment at Arlington National Cemetery when she informed me that her husband was peripatetic, who had befuddled our then Class Agent Bob Raeburn, for years. She informed me that Bob was a collector of tools that he did not use.

I wished Sam Scott a happy birthday as he was driving his family to Fort Sumter for an outing. I trust he transferred to a ferry, and I am thankful he did not start another war.

Joe Tom Howard called for contact info for George Cohen, which I furnished. Joe Tom had notes that George had a grandson the Navy was sending to Auburn University for an engineering degree. Joe Tom in turn has a grandson starting this September at Auburn. When I heard that, I could not believe the coincidence, for I too have a grandson starting Auburn this fall.

I failed twice to reach Jane Dougherty in Harrisburg, PA, with birthday wishes.

Jack Davis in Southern Pines, NC, called for contact info for Jack Nichols, which I furnished. Stonewall is still fighting a number of health problems.

George Cohen called to give me contact info for his grandson, who is attending Auburn. He and Marty are fine.

I called Homer Ambrose to pass on a message from Brom Nichol. Homer evidently refused Brom’s request for barbed wire in Korea, and B.B. says he is still “mad.”

Gracelyn Parks had a pacemaker implanted and Vic reports that everything seems OK. I reached Joe Stump to wish him a very be-

lated birthday – February 28 – and to report my birthday card to him had been returned as “not deliverable.”

Joe spends the winter in Florida, and I do not have contact info for that state. Joe reports he is in great shape.

I left birthday greeting for Bill Hairston in Hickory, NC, with his wife, Shirley.

I checked on Mary Lee May at Cedarfield in Richmond, VA. She has Parkinson’s disease and uses a wheelchair, but she sounds great.

I received a note from Paul Robinson in Neenah, WI, complaining about the cold weather – “hope summer comes soon.” He reports on a couple of phone conversations with Willard Hays but says he has been unable to contact the “Egg.” Paul concludes, “Jean starts another series of tests tomorrow – hope they find something the doctors can treat. She gets very tired very easily.”

Paul also enclosed a book review from The Weekly Standard (May 6, 2013) – “Underdogs, The Making of the Modern Marine Corps” – which I appreciated.

I wished Pete Philp in Dallas a happy birthday. He is doing well.

I left birthday wishes for Margaret Agnor in Charlottesville on her voicemail.

I wished Lain Peck in Meriden, CT, a happy birthday. He reports that he has no problems (health or storm) and is fortunate to have three sons living nearby.

Bob Nolley called from his North Carolina beach home for contact info on our deceased BR Lopez. Jean and he are doing well.

I received a note from Jake Wamsley with a copy of the financial report for our mini reunion – a surplus of $585.20 was contributed to the Class of 1951 Fund. Incidentally, I learned, as a result of a telephone call between Marie and Eday, that our president intended to participate in a five-miler on the Fourth of July.

I wished George Cohen at Hilton Head a happy birthday. Marty and he are doing well. Bounce Carstens called to report that our BR Doc Laville died on June 23 after a short illness. I shall miss my telephone visits with Doc. As was said in the Bomb, “Small in stature, this representative of the Bayou State has shed a little of his sparkling personality on all of us … He is one Brother Rat who will never let the cold, cruel world get him down.”

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES I checked with Vic Parks and learned that he and Gracelyn are doing well.

Gloria Cowherd, a long-time supporter of VMI, reports to my inquiry that she has fully recovered from Sandy. She also reported that she had a telephone call from Dick Cole, one of George’s roommates.

After multiple unanswered phone calls to Roger Little in St. Louis from January to June, I received a call from Roger. He reported that his cardiologist had determined that a heart valve replacement was not necessary. So, Betty and he had been in Florida, where a son lives, looking for a spot in the sun.

I failed to reach Ellen Nelson on the Eastern Shore with birthday greetings at the end of June.

I received an e-mail from Jigger Baxley on the Fourth reporting on a trip. They visited Johnny Leddy in Clarksville, TN, a roommate of Jigger’s. Johnny is doing well.

Then on the return to Virginia, Ursula and he visited Smoe Perry’s son, Sam, and his wife in Nashville.

Jigger also reports that he sees Bobby Trumbo regularly in Marshall, VA. I left birthday greetings for Patty Blackwell in Abingdon, VA. Sam Scott called from Charleston, SC, to report that Cindy and Jim Marshall were visiting him. Sam was acting as a tour guide for them. I was glad to learn that they all were doing well.

I continued to fail to reach Ken Crisp in Huntington, WV. Does anyone have info?

I reached Rufus Lazzell in Punta Gorda, FL. He and Jo Jac are doing well despite some health problems. We discussed his tour of duty in Alaska, and he renewed his promise to make a reunion.

Jack Evans called from Virginia Beach to report our BR Charles W. Ironmonger passed away on May 31, 2013. He was Jack’s roommate, who left after one month, 17 days, as he did not want a college education.

Sam Scott called to make inquiry about the problem in our English department.

Several of the younger faculty resigned in protest, citing many alleged problems. This has resulted in an inquiry by the American Association of University Professors, which is ongoing, despite a forceful and complete rebuttal by Gen. Peay ’62. This was also the subject of inquiry by Bob Nolley, from his 2013-Issue 4

beach residence and Jack Evans.

I contacted Gerry Eggleston as a result of Paul Robinson’s inquiry – he could not reach the Egg. Gerry reports he is in good health, walks to VMI most days and cannot understand Paul’s problem, as his telephone and voicemail is operational.

I left birthday greetings for Jane Catlin on her voicemail.

I also left greetings for Dick Cole in Minneapolis with Louise as he was out golfing. A few days later Dick called, and we had a nice visit. He reports that he is busy introducing Louise to Minneapolis and expects to make the next reunion.

Toward the end of July, I had lunch with former roommates, Rav Marshall and Don Baldwin, who are Alexandria neighbors of mine. Both are in good health, and we had a long and enjoyable afternoon reminiscing about our VMI years.

I wished Willard Hays a happy birthday and learned from Peggy that Willard, who is still suffering with a painful back condition, has been accepted by the UVa back clinic.

I wished Lang Sheffield in Americus, GA, a happy birthday. He reports that his mobility is very limited due to foot problems but hopes to make the next reunion.

On the first of August, I received a note from Donna Kieser, daughter of Art and Ellen Johns, that her mother had passed away.

As you may remember, Art left after two years and proceeded to pick up undergraduate and law degrees. He then served 20 years in Navy JAG before retiring as commander.

Art then practiced law privately until his death in May 2008.

I received a call from Doug Hamner ’48B requesting contact info for the family of Johnny Gray. He recounted his knowledge of many in our class and agreed that Johnny was one “sweet guy” and all-around great friend. After I provided the info, we had a long reminiscence about the VMI football program of 1947. I then provided contact info for Joe Stump pursuant to Doug’s request.

I immediately notified Pat Gray and Joe Stump of the foregoing.

Joe reports he still is in great shape but that he will not be able to make the annual dinner for our hall of fame members. However, I was forced to leave my notification for Pat on her voicemail.

There is an error in my last class note

(VMI Alumni Review 2013 Issue 3, page 63). Discussing the memorial service for our deceased Brother Rats at this past March reunion, I state, “We recognized our 12 deceased Brother Rats.” Sadly, the correct number is 112 are deceased. Incidentally, as of the beginning of August we have 86 surviving Brother Rats.

Some other pertinent statistics: There are 30 Brother Rats recognized in the Hall of Valor led by Ned Schowalter, Medal of Honor, and Brom Nichol, Distinguished Service Cross.

The Institute is commissioning its graduates at about a 50 percent rate.

The entering Rat class will be around 490, making the Corps at around 1740, the largest in history. Geographically, the Corps breaks down to 58 percent in state and 42 percent out of state.

Interestingly, next year (2014) is the 175th anniversary of the founding of VMI (1839) and the 150th of the Battle of New Market (1864).

I failed to reach Dick Lawrence in Austin, Texas, with birthday greetings, but I did leave a birthday wish for Robbin Jordan on her voicemail.

In an e-mail on August 7, Joe Tom Howard reported that he had an incident in July that resulted in major heart surgery on July 17 – two bypasses, mitral valve replacement and a pacemaker implant.

Jim Enochs immediately wished Joe Tom a speedy recovery, while noting his own pacemaker implant eight years earlier.

Frans Kasteel likewise expressed a wish for a speedy recovery, while philosophically discussing the aging process. Rog Little offered prayers for a speedy recovery as well.

Incidentally, I welcomed Jim Enochs to the pacemaker club eight years ago and to which your class agent became a member back in 1996.

When I called Joe Tom on August 9 to wish him a successful and speedy recovery, I also welcomed him to the club. Joe Tom sounds great and is evidently progressing well.

I know that I speak for the class when I wish Joe Tom and all of our Brother Rats fighting serious medical problems a speedy return to good health.

Once again, I urge each of you to regularly check on your roommates and other Brother Rats.

As you will not receive this note until 43

CLASS NOTES Dave White wrote thanking me for my services as class agent. I must tell you that I am enjoying this assignment and will continue bringing you news and events. Jim Wiley wrote many thanks for the note concerning the death of our Brother Rat Tommy Lyne.

Jim and Tommy came up together from Richmond and roomed with each other during our Rat year. Jim says of his eight roommates, only Joe Craven and Jim are left. “It’s not if but when! Only our Lord knows.” Jim is right. Only our Lord knows. Our Lord wants us to go from this world to a better place, but it is up to us individually where we will go.

I called Frank Tuck to wish him a happy birthday. He told me that at the present he is using a walker because he injured his knee some years ago, and it has gotten worse over

leadership in the VMI program for Keydets that focuses on the ability to anticipate and respond effectively to uncertainties of a complex changing world. I personally am aware that all Keydets are offered many James M. Mecredy more leadership opportunities than in the past. Incidentally, Chris Holland is looking for a copy of a 1949 Bomb.

Chris has recently had a pacemaker installed and is even more energetic then before. The situation started with Chris feelI am starting these class notes on May 16 after submitting my class notes for the ing tired after working in the yard. He asked August issue of the Alumni Review. The Sugar for two aspirins and some water. He first item is an e-mail I received from Red called a friend, who happened to be an emerAustermann celebrating New Market Day. gency tech, to open up a facility that Chris I tried to copy the e-mail to include in these was scheduled to open but didn’t feel up to it. notes, but could not accomplish that. The The friend (that is what true friends are for) e-mail contained a VMI plaque, happy New sent an emergency crew over Chris’ protests.

Market Day, VMI monogram, They did not like something they flintlock rifle, cannon, and a Civil detected. Again, over Chris’ War confederate soldier. protests, they took him to the I heard from Jim Miller. His hospital for testing. Later a nurse birthday was on May 12, so I came into the room asking for called him and left a message. the person needing a pacemaker.

He called me back later. They Chris told her that he just left. were very busy at the time so At this point, a doctor arrived to it took him a couple of days to explain emphatically why Chris get back to me. Otherwise, they needed a pacemaker. The doctor are doing well and Jim says they noted the VMI watch Chris was keep praying. wearing and told Chris that he I am continuing with the birth(the doctor) was a Citadel graduday phone calls. This week I ate. Chris explained there was no called Keith Durbin, Swede Larway he was going to lie on a table son, Frank Byrne, Cecil Webb and let a Citadel graduate cut him Class of 1952: VMI Room 50, sometime between 1948 and Ash Harman. I did not reach and 1952. From left: Frank Butler, Austin Bridgforth, open. Chris addressed the doctor as doctor nob (Citadel freshmen any of them. I left messages for Andy Dickinson and Jack Gladstone. are called nobs for their shaved Keith and Swede and sent e-mails heads) asking if the doctor was to Frank and Ash. Cecil’s phone mailbox was full so I could not leave him a the years. He is hoping that with treatment going to take good care of Chris. After being message. Both Keith and Ash responded to it will improve. Frank told me that his wife reassured, Chris received the pacemaker and my e-mails. Both said they are doing well saw Andy Dickinson last week, and Andy stayed overnight, going home after breakfast and Ash gave me a new phone number, with had a black eye. I called Andy and learned the next morning. Chris is now doing great the comment that he changed phone numbers that he had slipped on a plywood sheet and and has some advice for any of us who are because he was tired of receiving so many hit his face, giving him a black eye and some losing energy or frequently feeling tired. The sales calls. I only get one or two solicitation broken bones in his face. The breaks were advice is to have a checkup, even if we have calls a day, and so many of you have my not severe enough for surgery. There is some to go to a Citadel graduate. Chris guarantees phone number, so I will continue to hang slight deformation but Andy cannot see it, so we will be glad we did.

Chuck Haley called about a VMI uniform up when I hear a message about listening he will just keep going and take care not to fall again. Other than that, Andy is doing fine. he and Sugar found in a Civil War museum closely if I am a senior citizen.

Chris Holland told me about an article they visited in Springfield, IL, last week.

I just received a call from Tom Lyne’s daughter announcing his death on May 12. in the Charlotte Observer about VMI and This uniform was in good shape and very His wife died in 2012 and they are survived tomorrow’s leaders. Essentially the article similar to today’s uniforms except the shako by two daughters, two sons, one brother, summarized the leadership history and em- was different. The uniform was donated after three grandchildren and four great-grand- phasis at VMI by referring to the many phas- the Civil War by Col. Henry King Burgwin children. The obituary appears in the Taps es of leadership that George C. Marshall of the 26th North Carolina Regiment. The re’901 provided and the current emphasis on cord showed that 71 percent of the men were section of this Alumni Review.

November, Marie and I hope you had a great fall and wish you a happy holiday season.

Semper Fi – Jack

’52

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES injured or killed. Chuck is going to pass the information on to Col. Gibson ’77, director of the VMI Museum. Chuck maintains his health by continuing exercise by walking, but he does not run anymore!

I got behind in telephoning Brother Rats on their birthdays because I was studying for a ham radio license, which I received yesterday. The main reason for getting the license is to be prepared for county communication support in the event of a local disaster, when ham radios are the only means of communication as happened in Oklahoma.

I called Frank Tuck, Carole Clingempeel and Frank Butler today, all of whom had birthdays earlier this month. I had to leave messages for Frank and Carole. They must be doing well enough because they were each out for the evening. I did talk to Frank Butler. He just returned from a three-week trip to Europe including Florence, Capri, Lisbon and Corsica. He reports that it was a wonderful trip and today he is still suffering from jet lag. He expects to be recovered by tomorrow.

Walt Ames reports that he is doing well in spite of limited ability to stay on his feet for more than a half-hour. His knees become painful.

Charlie Coulbourn has been living in Rolling Hills Estate, CA, since 1967. He has two daughters and four grandchildren. He introduced his 19-year-old grandson to VMI two years ago, but the grandson signed up in California to play college water polo a week before he got an offer from VMI. Charlie told me that most of his family has birthdays in June, so he has not only celebrated his birthday this month but also celebrated four or five more family birthdays. Charlie is not completely retired doing woodwork making furniture. At the moment, he is making chairs for both of his daughters.

Rich Falwell lives in Lynchburg, VA, after living in New Jersey for five years and Washington, D.C., for 30 years. He is glad to be back in Lynchburg. His son recently transferred to Chicago and Rich is going to Chicago to visit next month. Rich takes life easy for the most part, as he has diabetes that slows him down. Like all of us in our 80s, he hopes to be around for a few more years anyway. I also called Gary Pittman, but he was not home at the time of my call.

Wilson Gaillard and his wife are in good health in their home in Mobile, AL. They 2013-Issue 4

have two children and three grandchildren.

Their grandchildren are twin girls and a boy. Wilson and Toulmin Greer along with Tommy Martenstein ’54 see each other frequently. Living in Mobile, Wilson has a house on the beach, so he enjoys the best of the Deep South. I asked if he knew Jack Friend ’51. Jack died two or three years ago. Jack was company commander of A Company when I was first sergeant in A Company. I had kept in touch with Jack until recent years.

I finally reached Lou Delisio. I had called him a couple of times, but it turns out that he was out playing golf both times I called. Both Lou and his wife, Ella, (if I remember correctly) are doing well. She had knee surgery a couple of times and is slowly recovering.

They are traveling to the Baltic in August including parts of Russia, Copenhagen and Amsterdam.

I talked to Turk Lane who tells me that he has slowed down some but otherwise is doing OK. Joe Duff must have a new phone number, because I could not reach him on either phone number I have. One phone number is to someone who was assigned the number three years ago. She has received many phone calls for Joe, but they have been tapering off lately. I have written Joe a note at his mailing address, which I hope is still good, to ask for a new phone number.

I called Joe Webber on his birthday and got no answer. It turns out that he had taken a trip from Pennsylvania down into the Blue Ridge and just returned a half-hour before I called him the second time. He says he is healthy, and if he were any healthier, he would have to be two people. Joe continues with the choral group and they are performing at a local theater on August 17, where they will be singing old songs like “Joshua fit the battle of Jericho.”

I received an e-mail from Lili Harman, Ash Harman’s wife. Ash has been experiencing a hoarse throat for several years and the doctors have not been able to heal Ash. The doctor first thought the cause was a drug reaction. Ash has now had surgery on June 24, without any immediate help. Lili feels that the problem was not identified soon enough, and now she is very sad about an apparent misdiagnosis. I wrote back to Ash and Lili expressing our distress to learn that Ash is having so much difficulty with his throat. This sounds like an autoimmune

illness about which doctors have limited knowledge. In our experience prayer to God, the creator of the universe, for healing is the most effective answer. We offered our prayers to them for a healing that God will remove the source of this throat problem.

Ted Ball called to tell me that he saw Jim Wiley at the drive-in of a restaurant in Warsaw, VA. Ted and Kitty had stopped in the restaurant when he spotted a car by the window with a VMI 52 license plate. Ted rushed out and met Jim Wiley. They talked for a few minutes, and Ted had to be on his way back home in Tullahoma, TN. Ted and Kitty had been visiting Anna Wells (Bruce Wells’ widow) whom they had known for many years. Ted told me that Bruce’s grandson, Gary LeClair ’15, is in the class of 2015 at VMI. Ted thought that the coincidence of meeting Jim was unique enough to call me and relate the occasion. In addition, Ted told me about a benefit called “Honor Flight” that offers WWII and Korean veterans a free flight to D.C. to visit the war memorials. I have investigated and signed up for the next flight out of Georgia. When I hear back I will add that to my class notes.

Bill Kearney called to thank me for his birthday card. We had an enjoyable conversation discussing news from VMI and the current state of affairs in Wisconsin where Bill lives. In the last election the unions tried to get the governor out of office, but the people of Wisconsin voted him back in office in spite of the unions, and he is doing a good job according to Bill. Bill has lost enough eyesight that he no longer drives, but he is still very cheerful and forward-looking.

Boyd Guttery recently wrote asking for prayer for his son, Darryl, who had been suffering with a brain tumor for 34 months.

Boyd wrote today that Darryl died peacefully early in the morning of June 18. It is always sad when children die before their time.

Austin Bridgforth’s grandson, Austin Laufersweilen, is president of the student body at the University of Georgia. Austin has two grandsons and a granddaughter.

The second grandson is a chief at “Avia” in Buckhead, GA, which is a suburb of Atlanta. Austin’s wife, Teenie, had a bone spur removed from her foot several months ago and is almost healed. Austin is very proud of his grandchildren.

I called Joe McCarthy, Gary Colonna and Charlie Shoaf to honor their birthdays. Joe 45

CLASS NOTES Annah Cross, Ed and Ingrid Brown, John and Gary report that they are doing well and William C. Noell Jr. and Bruce Evans, Frank and Lois Wootton, Charlie’s wife, Mary, told me that Charlie is Sut and Lucy Sutherland, Jim Eads, Ken still ambulatory in the nursing home where Perry and Jeff Bane. Regretfully, Judy and he is located. He is stable and each day is I were not able to make either of these sernew to him.

Jeff Hanna called asking about Root Hopvices as we were in Tennessee with family/ As I sit here overlooking Norris Lake on grandchildren staying with us at the lake. kins. I brought him up to date that Root is The memorial services for Kolbet were still flat on his back, but he is able to talk, so our new screened-in porch, with it “pouring I gave Jeff his phone number. Jeff is living the rain” on our metal roof (and splattering held at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in in Puyallup, WA, and is doing well in spite in somewhat) and watching waves roll in, it downtown Washington D.C. – one block of knee joints needing extra lubrication. He is sad to note that our 60th has now come above the Ford Theater and three blocks has three sons and a daughter. Two of the and gone. Since then, regretfully, we have above Pennsylvania Avenue where we sons are retired policemen and the third son lost three more Brother Rats. Two had been marched in “Ike’s” inauguration. The church is a master plumber. His daughter, age 17, having medical problems; Tom Whitesel is a beautiful stone building built in 1792 is in high school. Also, Jeff has three dogs and Kolbet Schrichte, and thus could not and was very impressive inside. After the ranging from 10 pounds to 90 pounds. The be at the reunion, but one left us very sud- services, a reception was held at a classmaller dogs sleep on the beds and the big denly after attending the reunion – Mickey sic old hotel off Massachusetts Avenue, a dog sleeps wherever he wants.

Woodward. Tom had been under cancer dozen blocks away. I talked with Lynn for a Joanne Price sent me an invitation to a treatments for months, and Kolbet has been while, as well as a couple of their children, memorial service for Jim Price (I reported dealing with his problems for several years. including Chris ’82. There was very good his death in the last issue of class notes). However, Mickey had a heart attack one representation from our class at this Saturday The service was held August 24 in National evening while lying on his bed. The burial morning service: Parker and Annah Cross, Harbor, MD. I would have liked to attend, services for both Tom and Mickey were held Will and Christina Allison, Jim and Marilyn but Augusta, GA, is just too far away for a in the Arlington National Cemetery in July, Meek, Reed and Vivien Johnson, Wip and one-day trip. I did appreciate being included. and memorial services were held for Kolbet Ada Wilson, Ted and Veronica Mariani, Near the beginning of these John and Doris Gilbert, and Fred notes is a photo of four of our and Ursula Hauser. Jim Meek Brother Rats relaxing in Barhas donated one of his extra bricks in the name of Kolbet, racks, which I thought you might which will be laid in front of enjoy. The picture includes: Barracks in the walk in October.

Frank Butler, Austin BridgI received a nice note from Lynn forth, Andy Dickinson and Jack thanking me for my attendance to Gladstone. the services for Kolbet, and she Many of you know about the enclosed an “ancient” photo of fall and injury Nutz Navas reKolbet and friends back in Barceived in July. Nutz was out walking their dog on Monday and racks in ’52 or ’53.

I received a very nice card from fell, injuring his arm (requiring stiches), his hand and striking his Bobbie Bayliss and family in head on the ground. He was taken Class of 1953: The swing made by Bill Noell at his Ten- regard to the reunion with a phonessee lake house using his 64-year-old “hay” mattress. to the hospital and in critical tograph enclosed of her, Dabney care, because he was under a lot Coleman and Jim Eads. Those of sedation. At the same time, Barbara was in downtown Washington the last of July. I of you at the reunion will recall that Art recovering from eye surgery a month or so had sent out e-mails to the BR list giving and Susan Moncrief had their nephew with before. I am pleased to report that both Nutz times and locations of all three services in them, who while at the reunion, became very and Barbara are recovering. At this writing, case some BRs within driving distance to interested in VMI. I gave him a “behind the Nutz is still in a rehabilitation center, but D.C. could make the services, and some did. scenes” Institute tour and set up an appointJack and Meredith Townes attended his ment with him at the admissions office on he is recovering. Lou Delisio has been to see him several times and each time reports roommate, Tom’s services. He said no other the Wednesday morning after the reunion. that Nutz is recovering well. My son, Ron BRs were present, and that he was very I received a very nice note from Weston Mecredy ’82, lives in the area, so he visited thankful that they were able to be there. Hav- saying how impressed he was with VMI, Nutz and called me to add to the encouraging ing been married twice, both of Tom’s fami- and he thanked me for the time I spent with news about the recovery. lies were at the service, and his son expressed him and his father. A note from Lucy Moise That covers the news I have at this time. how proud Tom was of his relationship with expressed her thanks for being included in I will start another edition of class notes the Institute. There were several BRs in at- the reunion, and that she really enjoyed it. next week. tendance at Mickey’s services: Parker and An e-mail answer from Foy Braswell said

’53

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1953: From left, Brooke Chamblin, Ned Clopton, Jack Trigg, Jim Williams, Ed Artz and Kolbet Schrichte in 1952 or 1953. Photo provided by Lynn Schrichte.

Class of 1953: At the 60th Reunion Dinner were, from left, Jim Eads, Dabney Coleman and Bobbie Bayliss.

Class of 1953: Former commandant Gen. Withers A. Burress ’914, USA, left, speaking with aide E. Burke Marks ’53 before a procession for the new superintendent in May 1953.

Marks is wearing his formal coatee uniform, the design of which dates back to the War of 1812.

2013-Issue 4

that his health has been going downhill recently, and at this point he does not have any energy, and although he sleeps 10 hours, he still has to take a nap – lucky that Trudy is a good cook and a nurse. He hopes that he can make a comeback and be at the 65th.

His e-mail shows a large VMI flag hanging outside his place in Wichita Falls. I received a letter from Pierre “Oz” Bellinger (he still only uses “snail mail”) saying how great the reunion was and how much he enjoyed the gathering and visiting at our house on Sunday. Earlier that Sunday, he and his son toured the battlefields in the Fredericksburg area. A very nice note from Ann Goddard said that she and Ann Artz were very glad that they came to the reunion and enjoyed it very much – and knew that Warren was close by. She also very nicely expressed her pleasure at my sending her a note after the passing of Warren and the support of friends and family. As I write these notes, Betty Woodward and family should be on their trip to Europe that they had planned for the summer. I received a very nice note from Betty telling me how much Mickey enjoyed hearing from me in class notes and how much he loved the Institute.

I hope that all received the DVD of the memorial service for our deceased Brother Rats. For the widows, I included the program brochure that Ted Mariani compiled. Ted provided me with sufficient copies of the DVD to send out to all widows and Brother Rats. After I addressed and placed them in mailing envelopes, I turned them over to the Alumni Association for mailing the last of July. Included in some of the mailings were DVDs of the photo album of BRs, for BRs not in attendance at the 60th, which was put together by John Lund for the reunion gift.

We all owe Ted and John a great thanks for all the work they did in producing these DVDs. We did pay for these projects with funds left over from past reunions.

So, how many of you can still account for your VMI hay? You have seen in my past class notes, pictures of my grandchildren sleeping on my hay here at the lake. However, it does have a new mattress that I obtained through Col. Jim Joyner ’67 at VMI some 15-plus years ago, when I took the hay out of storage for the lake. Now the photograph of the new swing on our screened-in porch that I made, as requested by Judy, has my original hay mattress. It had been rolled up in

the original cover and straps for the past 60 years since graduation – it’s kind of lumpy and needed some airing out in the sun, but not on the VMI stoops – but works fine on the swing. Of course, Judy has enhanced the appearance of the mattress since its VMI days, and it is now a great place to relax and read in the fresh lake air.

Class Trivia – History: Now that the 60th has passed, I kind of looked back into our history as we ended our four years at the Institute. Do you recall that it was a Tuesday morning at 11:00 that we started our graduation on June 9, 1953, in William Cocke ’894 Hall – now the “old” gym? We received our diplomas and then our commissions all on the same stage in our coatees – whereas today, only the diplomas are given at graduation in Cameron Hall. The commissioning is accomplished at separate locations, outside on the Post, and in the uniform of the service you are entering. The invocation for graduation was given by the Episcopal minister at R.E. Lee downtown, and Ted Mariani gave the valedictory address. Charles Williams received the first Jackson Hope Medal, and Ted Mariani received the second Jackson Hope Medal as well as the Cincinnati Medal. We had our graduation parade at 4 p.m. on the Monday preceding Tuesday’s graduation, and the Final Ball ($6.00 each) on that night in Cocke Hall from 11:00 - 3:00, plus also a hop on Saturday night from 9 -12 ($3.60 each). The hop president was Jack Trigg, and VP Tee Morgan. The Glee Club sang at our baccalaureate service in J.M. Hall on that Sunday, and we had our final formation on the hill at the completion of graduation Tuesday, ready to start our life in a branch of the service for so many of us, with some attending medical or graduate school. As for the BRs having the big rank, there was Charlie Steward as first captain, who I have not heard from in my years as class agent; Stoop Prillaman as 1st Batl. and Harry Johnston as 2nd Batl. commanders. And of course, J. Parker Cross is still our class president, with Walt McCarthy VP the Rat year, handing it over to Moose Hudson after Walt “bulled back.” Ted Mariani is the class historian, who probably remembers all of the above very accurately. Then for a little final data, here are the degrees received in our graduating class: chemistry – 14, civil engineering – 68, electrical engineering – 8, 47

CLASS NOTES physics – 5, biology –19, English – 15 and history – 23.

’54

Bill Turner

“I desire you would remember the ladies … Do not put such unlimited power into the hands of husbands. Remember, all men would be tyrants if they could.” - Abigail Adams.

Just got an informative e-mail from Paul Kuhne. Paul had a pacemaker installed recently, and he is trying to “adjust” mentally and emotionally as well as physically. Hang tough, Paul, just a “gadget,” no big thing.

You’ll get used to it, and maybe you’ll be glad you got it. Think of it as a safety net; it’s there if you need it. Hopefully, prayerfully, you won’t need it, but it’s there if you do.

Expect to see Paul and his lovely wife, Ramona, in November when we attend the annual Institute Society Dinner. Think you have to make an annual contribution of at least $49.98 to get an invite. I barely squeaked through.

A short time ago, I had an interesting chat with “Mud” White. I called to congratulate him on being selected to serve on the VMI Board of Visitors. Goes without saying, that Virginia’s Governor Bob McDonnell made a sound decision. Couldn’t have been hard. Mud White is an excellent choice for the job. No question. Mud, we are all very, very proud of you. While in Nashville, TN, recently, home of the Grand Ole Opry and music capital of the world, I heard someone yell at one of the musicians – a banjo picker, I believe – “Let it go!” I understand that was a supreme compliment, comparable to “let it all hang out,” only more so. It was the supreme compliment to an artist who was having a terrific “run” on his instrument. So, let it go, Mud. Let it go!

On a sad note, Mud told me that Faye LaPrade, Byrd’s wife of many years, had died recently. I followed up Mud’s news with a telephone call to Byrd. Byrd, whose father graduated from VMI in 1904 and whose grandfather surrendered with Lee at Appomattox, is “doing the best he can.”

Byrd was married to Faye more than 50 years. Byrd said his wife’s death was not 48

entirely unexpected. She had been ill for some time.That doesn’t make it any easier.

Most psychiatrists believe that the loss of a child is the most traumatic experience we face on this earthly journey; they also believe that the loss of a spouse of a good marriage is very close, leaving scars that never heal, not completely.

Once I remember reading, “Grief is a process and not a state ... Her death has so many ways to hurt me that I discover them only one by one.” I can relate. I suspect many of you can as well.

It was good spending some time with Byrd.

He’s a good man. It goes without saying that the prayers of all his Brother Rats are with him at this difficult time.

Got an interesting e-mail from Perry Archer thanking me for his birthday card and saying that he celebrated the big day by cruising the European Atlantic coast, visiting Britain, France, Spain and Portugal. He says the highlight of his trip was a visit to Omaha Beach, scene of some of the bloodiest fighting during the Normandy invasion of WWII, June 6, 1944.

Perry reported that the orange color of the sand startled him. Of course, the sand ran blood red on that fateful day. The high bluffs and crisscrossing German bunkers facilitating interlocking machine gun fire also made an impression on Perry. He thought of what might have been on the minds of those very young American soldiers crossing that beach, not all of whom made it across … alive.

Finally, Perry said something very interesting. He said their guide, a young Frenchman with whom they had been laughing and joking for much of the tour, suddenly grew very serious and said: “We do not smile or laugh when we are on the beach.” Very telling. A couple of years ago when my wife, Sonja, and I toured southern France, we were constantly reminded of America’s involvement in freeing western Europe from the yoke of Nazi tyranny by the many plaques on the walls of a small French towns commemorating the American soldiers who died liberating France. You have to get out of Paris to see that. But it’s there.

Guess who just called? Well, it was the Hollywood star Dabney Coleman ’53. Remember Dabney? Who could forget him? I certainly won’t. In case you’ve forgotten, Dabney was one of the three or four major enforcers of the Ratline when we were Rats.

He, along with people like “Dirty” Dan Murdaugh ’53 and “Dandy” Don Diamondidis ’53 conspired to make my life a modern interpretation of Dante’s Inferno, not without some justification.

I had written Dabney, who starred in “On Golden Pond” and “9 to 5,” asking if he would either read or cause to be read a script/ screenplay written by a friend. Of course, this was a long shot, a very long shot. And yet, Dabney took the time from an obviously busy and demanding schedule, not only to respond but respond personally. Got to be the VMI “network.” Never sell it short. It’s very much alive and well.

Some of you may recall that a couple of years ago, Dabney was invited to Ring Figure by one of the Institute’s lady Keydets.

Darned if he didn’t accept, leaving, I am sure, an impression indelibly inscribed on some young lady’s psyche. You have to admire someone whose fame has not obscured his ties with the Institute. Let’s hear it, an Old Yell for Dabney. And Dabney, I’ve long since forgiven you for making my life so miserable. (I once read, “forgiveness is the scent the rose leaves on the heel that crushes it.”)

I forgive you. I know you were only doing your job. And truth be told, your tireless and painstaking interest in my early childhood development helped make me the man I am today. Couldn’t have done nearly so well without your “interest” and “encouragement.” In the words of “The King,” Thank you. Thank you very much.

Just returned from Lexington, where my good wife and I attended the annual Institute Society Dinner. Immensely gratifying. The Institute really puts its best foot forward at these events. Saw BRs John Knapp, Bruce and Nancy Gottwald, Paul Meyer, Ran Phillips, and Paul and Ramona Kuhne. All looked good. Fun to be together.

Also attended a CA mini-conference while in town. Among other things, learned that a new VMI class ring now costs more than $2,500, while the miniature retails for about $650. Should have bought more than a pair while I was there; it might have been a smart investment. Don’t remember what they cost, but I do remember what I had inscribed on the inside of the miniature, “To whom it may concern, all my love, Bill.” (I wasn’t real sure.) To my amazement, the recipient actually wore it … for about a year. Then, the “real deal” came along, and the first thing VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES she did was to take it to one of Richmond’s premier jewelers and have it re-inscribed, this time the right way. You can only get away with that sort of thing for a limited time; then, someone comes along who is smarter than you are.

Got a nice card from Gloria Scroggins who, you may remember, lost her husband of many years, Frank, a while back. She said she celebrated her recent birthday with family, “always fun.” She says she still misses Frank every day but is “moving on with her life.” I’m glad, Gloria; I know you know Frank would want that. Losing one’s spouse is perhaps the most pain we can feel on this terrestrial tour, leaving scars that never heal completely. By all accounts, you are never the same after experiencing such loss. Faith can mitigate it, but never eliminate it. I am not smart enough to know why God brings such people into our lives only to take them away. Understanding is a bit above my pay grade. But, I do believe we should be grateful that at least once in our lives, we had something so wonderful that it can never be taken away, not even by death.

Our thoughts and prayers remain with you, Gloria. Hang in there. Keep looking up; the sun will shine again, perhaps not the same way, but it will shine.

Just talked with Jack Gary. Jack, a retired Marine Corps general is teaching, among other things, global diplomacy at the University of South Florida. He sounded good and said he felt good other than experiencing some back pain resulting from Vietnam when his tank ran over a mine. I told Jack to “shake it off” and be glad that he was in a tank. Says he still plays tennis three times a week though, like moi, he’s restricted to doubles. Still, he agreed that “the glass half full” is still better than no glass at all.

Jack told me he had just talked with one of his old roommates, Bill Fulgham, and Bill seemed to be doing great. I second that. I, too, talked with Bill recently. I think I reported in a recent column that when I asked him if he was still chasing “hot chicks,” he said in that patented southeast Virginia drawl … “Naw, Bill, ’cause if I caught one it would just be too embarrassing.” I felt better. Think I’ll call him again next week.

Jack’s another of our heroes and patriots although I’m sure he’d play it down. Semper Fi, Jack. Semper Fi. Ollie Hux called last evening. Ollie still 2013-Issue 4

lives in Colorado, just north of Denver. Has a view of the Rockies, I guess. He called to tell me Colorado had just passed a law legalizing marijuana; I guess he thought I’d like to know, in case I was ever again in Colorado. Thanks, Ollie, appreciate the tip. Will remember that next time I’m there. Actually, Ollie really called to confirm the date of our next reunion – spring 2014. See you there, Ollie. Had a great lunch with Claiborne Terry, Bill Schubmehl, Tommy Williamson and Jack Tiller. All looked good. I was the guest of Claiborne, I suppose for services rendered as CA, and the invitation was much appreciated. We reminisced about the “old days” and discussed plans for the coming reunion. It was suggested that we begin the proceedings with a dinner at the Southern Inn to accommodate those BRs who might be arriving early from out of state. We also talked about giving “special consideration” to our special girls, the “Widows of ’54,” who remain so faithful to the class and the memories of their husbands. Although plans are incomplete at this point, there seems to be general agreement that we should pay special attention to our girls. And we will.

Talked with “The Donald” (Don Walden) last p.m. Sounded good, said he felt “pretty good,” despite a “few” health issues. (Don is only a member of a growing fraternity among the Brothers.) Still he presses on.

Don’s favorite “squeeze,” Maureen, is still hopscotching all over the globe, spreading her considerable charms wherever she goes.

She’s playing tennis, dancing, whatever, and seems a perfect counter-point to her laid back, imperturbable, “steady-as-she-goes” husband. Keep on keeping on, Don, and hang on to Maureen … very tightly. She’ll take you places you only fantasize about.

Had a nice telephone chat with Bob MacGregor this morning. As many of you know, Bob didn’t graduate from the Institute, opting for the seminary, but he has remained a strong supporter of the school. Bob’s doing well, still working, travelling internationally and maintaining a positive attitude on things, especially those things he can’t control. Like all of us should be, Bob seems involved in things that really matter and committed to their salubrious outcomes insofar as that is possible and practicable. (This reminds me of the story about the difference between “involvement” and “commitment.” When you look at a plate of ham and eggs, you

might say the hen was involved but the pig was committed. I think all too often, especially nowadays, marriage partners seem more “involved” than “committed.” Is it any surprise that one out of every two marriages today end in divorce?) Anyway, great talking with Bob. He’s a good man.

Due to the fact that the 2014 Spring Reunion dates fall on the Monday, April 21 and Tuesday, April 22, which are right after Easter weekend, VMI has changed the dates of the Spring Reunion for our class to Monday, March 24 and Tuesday, March 25, 2014.

Well, that’s a “wrap” for another time. I’ll close with a brief reminder. First, when you tell someone you love them, mean it and tell them often because people forget, and second, when you kiss someone goodbye, pretend it’s the first time and the last time.

See ya around the campus.

’55

Read Hanmer

In the last Alumni Review, I reported on the sudden death of Evie Sutherland. I subsequently received the following note from Dick: “Tragedy struck the Sutherland household this past February. Evie passed away after suffering from the flu for several days. According to the doctors, there was no apparent cause of death other than a possible embolism. We went to the emergency room and all of her vital signs looked OK, but they felt that she needed to be hospitalized because of dehydration caused by the flu. She is now comfortable in the hands of our Lord. In May, I had a routine stress test. When I woke up from that I had had quadruple bypass surgery. I went through several weeks of physical therapy, and I’m now still in the recuperative stages. I hope to be in good health by Labor Day.” Our thoughts and prayers are with you, Dick, and with Evie.

Dorene Ellis alerted me to the passing of Brother Rat Bill Ellis. A brief obituary follows: “William G. Ellis Jr., M.D., class of 1955, passed from this earthly life after a courageous five-month battle with cancer, on May 14th, 2013. Bill graduated from VMI in 1955, but was not one of your Brother Rats, as he joined the Institute after his freshman 49

CLASS NOTES year at Miami University of Ohio (Dorene, we still consider him to be our Brother Rat.) Bill joined the Air Force after graduation in 1955 and started medical school at the Medical College of Virginia after his fouryear Air Force career. Following medical school graduation, Bill did his residency at Huron Road Hospital in Cleveland, Ohio, and started an anesthesia practice named Anesthesia for Children, Inc., in Akron, Ohio, in 1966. He practiced pediatric anesthesiology for 34 years at the Children’s Hospital of Akron, Ohio. During his years at Children’s Hospital, Bill served as chairman of the anesthesia department, medical chairman of the intensive care unit and medical director of the respiratory therapy department as well as chief of the medical staff.

His dedication to medicine, children and the Akron community was highly admired and greatly appreciated. He retired to enjoy his many friends in golf games, lunches and breakfasts as well as being a cherished member of our church choir, participating actively in the music ministry.” In her note, Dorene added the following: “We often reflected on our cherished visits to VMI every fall, and sometimes in the spring as well, over the past 25 years. We loved to travel back to the Institute, and Bill took so much pride in sharing the landmarks of the school and the changes. He was a member of the Keydet Club and also a founding member of the Washington Arch Society at VMI. Our family happily placed his legacy medallion on his tomb reflecting the integrity, honor and character Bill demonstrated throughout his lifetime. He truly loved VMI, and we have established a memorial in his name with VMI Foundation.” Thank you, Dorene.

Marty Fisher has had a rough time with a golf injury. He described it as follows: “I am typing this with just my right hand – on August 6, I had surgery on my left hand to repair a broken bone in my wrist as well as torn and damaged tendons in my little and ring fingers. These were the result of playing golf. No one ever told me it is a dangerous sport! I split a bone in my wrist and tendons got trapped in the split. Every time I used my left hand, I was stripping a little more tendon off. The doctor took off the split part of the bone and then polished the remainder.

He reconnected two tendons from my ring finger and one from my little finger – they had ruptured. He consulted with other hand 50

specialists before operating because he never had done a repair as severe – he said it will be published. I always said ‘if you are going to do something, do it well.’”

Dave Woolwine reported that he was scheduled to have his “remaining good hip replaced in August. If I am going to have any quality of life looking forward (e.g., to the 2015 reunion) I have to have this done. This procedure will give me a total of four joint replacements. I guess that’s a class record, though it’s not one that I would have wished for. I’m in for a tough five to six weeks following the surgery. Best to all BRs.” What follows consists of jots and tittles received from your classmates and their significant others, along with some news from the “I.” Frank Brooke sent along the following communication from Terry Bowers ’68, president of the Alumni Association, concerning the New Market cadets: “Next May will be the sesquicentennial anniversary of the charge of the VMI cadets at the Battle of New Market. The Institute will conduct its traditional memorial activities and parade and there will be activities, remembrances and the battle reenactment at the New Market Battlefield Park. I would like to see this special memorial occasion spread locally and on a more national level to honor not only those cadets who ‘died on the field of honor,’ but to remember each member of the famous New Market Corps. Some of you may have read and recall that starting in 2004, I started a search for the graves of the cadets in the New Market Corps. The team that helped in this effort located more than 90 percent of the graves of these cadets. This sesquicentennial, we are in a unique position to have alumni or friends actually place a wreath, flowers, or red, white and yellow ribbons at each of the graves on or near New Market Day. I would ask that you pass this e-mail along in hope of locating alumni or friends of VMI who would like to participate in remembering each of these cadets. Some regions have few or no graves of these cadets to attend, but in others, there are many. Obviously, most of them are located in Virginia, but some are located on the West Coast and even in foreign countries. Though not yet arranged in geographical order or with the ability to sort in that manner, you may view the spreadsheet of the grave locations I have created and posted it online at: http://www.

augustagavmiaa.info/New_Market_Database.htm. I hope you find interest in this endeavor, but if not, that you will kindly pass this along to your chapter presidents and they in turn to their members to establish a cadre of volunteers. Eleven months will pass quite quickly in attempting to organize this effort and assure that as many graves as practical are visited. In the spirit, Terry Bowers ’68.”

Sam Marshall reports that he has identified the grave of New Market Cadet William Kirk in a church three miles from his house. Sam says he will give the grave the red-whiteyellow treatment on May 15.

Ever the faithful correspondent, Larry Price sent along the following: “Greetings, Brother Rats. My life, especially during recent years, has consisted essentially of reading, traveling, gambling, golf and “surgeries.” I am currently recovering from surgery number 38 (Larry, quit trying to set medical records!). On July 22, I had a total left knee replacement, and two days later, I went back to the emergency room for an ultrasound, which revealed a blood clot. Now I hope to leave Oak Lawn Sunday, August 11, and take sessions of outpatient rehab at Pinnacle Rehab Center. My orthopedic surgeon has promised my return to golf next April 2014. I’m currently scheduled for right knee replacement on November 18. Nevertheless, I plan to attend the Institute Society Dinner at VMI on November 11.” Larry’s note went on to recount numerous other health problems (contact Larry for a detailed list). Larry concluded his note, saying, “Well, things are looking up now. Health is good, and we just passed our 50th wedding anniversary last Sunday. Please say a prayer or two for Boots and me this week.” Larry’s new e-mail address is priceandboots@twc.com From Travis Russell: “Some information about my comings, goings and health. My wife, Claire, and I still do a lot of bicycle touring all over Europe and the U.S. Our last tour was in southern Italy. It was a wonderful, 30-day trip. Last winter we were in the Yucatan Peninsula, starting in Cancun.

Very interesting to visit the Mayan ruins.

Our health is good. I had a bout of prostate cancer, but I have passed the five-year mark of being cancer free. This year is a big year for us, our 50th wedding anniversary and of course, like all of us in the 1955 class, I shall become an octogenarian. Where have all the years gone and so fast? Anyway, thank you VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES for being our class agent, a job well done.”

Thank you, Travis, for the input.

Dick and Mary Martin have “declared victory and circled the wagons at the Querencia at Barton Creek resort retirement community, located in the hill country of southwest Austin, Texas, not far from their previous residence. Querencia has been described, with some accuracy, as a cruise ship that never docks and never rocks. There are many very interesting and accomplished people living here and never a dull moment. In some ways it’s like being back in the Army, with happy hours and Sunday brunches.” Sounds quite idyllic, mi amigo.

Sam Marshall has found the grave of William Myers Kirk ’867 who was a New Market Cadet. He died in July 1918, and his gravestone in the White Stone Baptist Church cemetery has no mention of VMI or New Market. Sam says he intends to mark the grave on next year’s New Market Day with flowers and a red, white and yellow ribbon. Sam hasn’t yet found a local relative but will keep looking. I’m told there is a project underway to identify the graves of all the New Market Cadets. If you know of any others, please contact me or the Institute.

This update from Bob Bancroft: “Nick Goetzinger is in an assisted living facility in Nixa, MO, which is near Springfield and Carthage, where his two sons are located.

Nick has Alzheimer type dementia. He and I, along with John Hansen and Jerry Bourke, were third class roommates. John, Nick and I departed VMI with NROTC scholarships, which left Jerry at the Institute to room with Sam Marshall and Dan Brittigan for the last two years. All were in Band Company.

Nick was back with us for the last couple of reunions but that will be no more. I speak with him on the phone but communication is difficult. He is in a good place and is being well cared for. I cherish the 17 to 19-year-old memories but accept the realities of an 80 life. Many of us are blessed.”

The VMI sports program continues to excel on many fronts. Here is a clip from the VMI website: “Charlotte, NC – VMI has been named the winner of the Big South Conference’s annual Institutional Sportsmanship Award for the 2012-13 athletic season, it was announced by the league office. VMI receives the honor for the seventh time in the award’s eight-year history.” Go Keydets! Continuing in the 2013-Issue 4

sports vein: in earlier class notes, I started a discussion of the Washington Nationals baseball team and major league baseball in general. The discussion continues to draw fond memories from a number of Brother Rats. Dave Woolwine wrote: “I read with interest that Tom Tait’s favorite team is the (Cincinnati) Reds. I have been a Dodger fan since 1946, sorry Tom. Before fall football practice in 1953, I went to Cincinnati to see a three-game series in old Crosley Field.

The Dodgers had a dream team (Jackie Robinson, Pee Wee Reese and many others).

At that time, the Reds were down a bit, but had great players (Ted Kluszewski, Virgil Stallcup, Ken Heinzelman and others). The Dodgers swept the series with a lot of home runs, as you might expect from their lineup.

My dad was an engineer for the Norfolk and Western Railroad, so he got passes for me to take the trip.” Dave’s input inspired Bill Shea to comment as follows: “Being born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, I had the opportunity to be a Dodger fan. The rest of my family members were Dodger fans, but I chose to root for the great New York Yankees. Players like Aaron Robinson (catcher), Billy Johnson (3b) George McQuinn (1b) played before other well-known stars such as Yogi Berra, Mickey Mantle and others. I live in Baltimore now and attend the Orioles games several times a season. I cheer for the home team unless they are playing the Yankees. My wife, Carol, a big Orioles fan, lets me sit next to her as long as I don’t go overboard if the Yankees are winning.” Tom Tait weighed in to add to the record: “I am still a dyed-in-the-wool Reds fan. As an item of interest, I threw out the first ball at a game in Louisville in 1990 during a celebration honoring the military. I was in uniform and was determined to throw a hard strike because I was standing on the mound with Pee Wee Reese, Wally Moon and John “Spider” Jorgensen (manager of the Louisville team and a former Dodger third baseman). The ball made a loud noise as it crashed into the catcher’s mitt.” Well done, guys.

Turning to the football team, Billy Nolley writes, “The Keydets open their season with the University of Richmond here in the ‘Holy City.’ Charlie Luck and I plan to attend the game and hope to see some other BRs. I saw Sam Woolwine recently and asked him if he would like to be on the team that faces UVa on September 21, after

UVa has played BYU and Oregon. I hope the Keydets survive!” Billy went on to say that he had attended an 80th birthday party for Bill Cridlin. Billy said Bill looks great, and Charlotte looks as though she just stepped out of college. Their three girls, Elizabeth, Catherine and Mary were there to help Bill get through the evening.”

John and Jean Lathram travelled from their home in Birmingham, AL, to enjoy the cool mountains of southwest Colorado and New Mexico, in their 25-foot motor coach.

John says, “do it while you can.” Sounds like good advice, John.

I received a nice note from Bill Poffenbarger, who admitted that it was his first note to a class agent in 50-plus years! Good to hear from you, Bill. Bill is in constant contact with his brother, John (’57), son, John (’74), and grandson, Ryan Poffenbarger ’16. Bill reports that Ryan had a very successful Rat year, finishing with a 4.0 average.

Congratulations, Ryan. Bill and Pat have moved to a retirement community near the Sharpsburg battlefield, and they visit the battlefield frequently. It seems that Robert Rodes, the Confederate general, occupied the old Poffenbarger family farm just before the Battle of Antietam. Neat history item, Bill. As an aside, my great-grandfather, Charles E. Garlick, was at Antietam as an NCO in the 89th New York Volunteers. Bill is helping his brother restore the family’s old stone farmhouse. Bill lists his phone number: 301-223-6145.

Mort and Jean Bregman submitted this nice update: “Our great-grandson turned four recently, and he may turn into a scientist – he loves to collect bugs and scares his mother with each new conquest. His sister, our great-granddaughter, is now 18-monthsold. Although she is the love of our life, she is in perpetual motion. At her recent doctor’s appointment for a checkup, he said he has never seen a child her age that moved with such reckless abandon. Our granddaughter, mother of these two, was promoted to a principal of a local elementary school at the beginning of the school year, and we are so proud of her accomplishments. The oldest grandson graduated from the University of Texas at San Antonio at mid- year with a degree in information technology and cyber security, and has interviewed with USAA and hopes to be offered a job within the next week. Jean and I have been at the 51

CLASS NOTES Army Residence Community for two years now and really enjoy the facility and new friends we have made. I finally started playing golf again (or should I say going to the golf course) because I sure lost my game when we moved. Think it is starting to come back some – sure hope so. We both are still healthy for a couple of old timers, but we plan to stay that way so we can keep up with the great-grandchildren. We wish the class of ’55 a healthy year.”

I’ll close with an article sent to me by Dick Sutherland concerning the McKemie Place Women’s Home, a safe haven where homeless women in the Alabama counties of Mobile, Baldwin and Washington can seek refuge and moral support. I have reported on Jimmy’s efforts on behalf of homeless women before. Dick added, “Jimmy spent many years trying to put this project in place.

Unfortunately, he passed away before the ‘blue prints’ were put into reality. It is a great project and just another example of what our classmates have done for their community.

If you need more information, I’m sure that Betty Jean McKemie will be more than happy to help – 251-666-2911.”

Class of 1956: A good swing by Bill Lamb.

Class of 1956: Amos Dickinson, right, organizing the boat with help from Bill Lamb.

Class of 1956: Captain Dickinson at the helm with mate Bill Lamb.

’56

Richard M. Smith

The first weekend in June was spent on the Eastern Shore at Cape Charles, VA, with my two old roommates, Amos Dickinson

Class of 1956: Amos Dickinson on a golf outing at Bay Shore Golf Club, Cape Charles, Virginia.

52

and Bill Lamb. We stayed in the Dickinson home, where I had first visited more than 60 years ago. It hasn’t changed very much but is getting a new coat of paint in order to be ready for a grandson’s wedding later this month. Since Andy Dickinson ’52, his brother, also was a VMI graduate, the place has seen a lot of parties over the years. Austin Bridgforth ’52 roomed with Andy and their sister, Nancy, married Dick Bridgforth who attended VMI for a year before transferring to UVa. There are Bridgforth offspring who also live in the area. We did a lot of rocking and reminiscing on the back porch, enjoying the weather and scenery. We went out on Amos’ boat to fish, but the weather got too rough and we had to come in. Amos is a member of the Bay Shore Golf Club, and we got to play the Arnold Palmer course, which is a fabulous layout. We ate some of the best seafood anywhere and washed it down with some very good scotch. I wished I could have recorded some of the banter that went on between us “old fogies,” but it wouldn’t be printable! Ina Gee Pittman called to let me know she and Jack had moved into an assisted living facility in Franklin, VA. It is

called The Villages at Woods Edge. Their new address and phone is: 1401 N. High St., Franklin, VA, 23851, 757-562-2307.

On June 27, our class was represented at the memorial service for Frances Dillard in Tappahannock by the following: Pat and Les Belsha, Don Heslep, Betty Mann, Motsy Foster, Mary Jo and Fred Farthing, and me.

Honey and I visited Jimmy Mann at their home in Richmond, where he is recovering from a fall that broke his leg. He had to spend many weeks in a facility taking physical therapy. He is finally able to put weight on it with a walking boot. His outlook is still the positive attitude I have always admired in him. He has had visits from Motsy Foster and Walt Donovan. On Sunday morning, July 21, Amos Dickinson died after complications occurred during surgery caused by an infection. I attended the memorial service celebrating the life of one who made others laugh or smile with his wonderful ability to poke fun at others. Our class was represented by: Don and Jo Heslep, Motsy Foster, Dick Justice, Les Belsha, Betty and Jim Mann, Betsy and Doug Gottwald, and Jim Stephens. Many other members of the VMI VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1956: View from the rear porch of Amos Dickinson’s home in Cape Charles, Virginia.

family and friends attended. I learned from Les that Pat Belsha was in the hospital after a fall at home left her with several broken bones in her leg. Ken McDonald called to fill me in on recent conversations with BRs. He is trying to get a group together to visit Bill Tolley for lunch at the Chamberlain Hotel. He got in touch with Bill Westerman, Chuck Jundt, Hop Graham, Fred Farthing and plans to do this on Aug. 26. I will try to join them. Several events are planned for the end of August. The Farthings are joining Honey and me at Pipestem State Park in West Virginia for a couple days of golf and sightseeing in the cool mountains. Jim Dillard plans to return here from California on Aug. 28 and will join a group of ’56ers in Richmond for the VMI-Richmond football game. One sad note before closing is we lost another BR, Dr. Gaylord Williams, in Charlottesville last week. I hope many of you will plan to attend the VMI-Citadel football game in late November, and we can enjoy the sites of Charleston, SC. This wraps up my summer of 2013 report.

Yours in the spirit!

Dick

’57

Clayton M. Thomas III

Now in August, we take comfort that cool weather shall come in a month or two. We also can look forward to another VMI football season. Of the 12 football games, six will be played at home. Dawn and I hope to attend two games in Lexington. Was it really so many years ago that, as recent graduates, 2013-Issue 4

Class of 1957: Garland Sullivan and Johnny St George at Ponta Verde Beach, Florida, in June 2013.

Class of 1957: Dixie Thomas, left, and Ken Dickinson at Dixie’s Crossroads seafood restaurant in Titusville, Florida.

Class of 1957: From left, Ryan Poffenbarger ’16, grandson of Bill; John C. ’79, son of Bill; Bill Poffenbarger ’55; and John Poffenbarger ’57.

VMI had an undefeated football season?

Those were the halcyon days of 1957. Back then, I saw six victories before reporting for duty at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas. In two days, the Rats will matriculate at VMI. The significance of this event is that when these incoming Rats are first classmen and ready to graduate, we will be celebrating our 60th Reunion in April 2017. The years fly by for us but creep slowly for the Keydets.

We continue to enjoy life in Florida, but we plan to move into smaller quarters in John Knox Village in Orange City. We have been downsizing. To my great dismay, I have packed 46 boxes of books, which we have donated to worthy causes. There is much sorrow in parting with these books. It is like losing old friends.

Johnny and Betty St. George in Portsmouth, VA, sent a bundle of pictures. They sent pictures of Jim and Toni Piggott, Bill and Florine Moore, Dick and Sarah Collier,

and George and Shirley Sydnor. I am sending these with my notes and hopefully they may appear in our next Alumni Review. Also, they included a photo of Garland Sullivan and John St. George on the Ponte Verda Beach Golf Course in June 2013. However, the best picture is of 18 Sister Rats in Moody Hall for a mini-reunion. All the wives look beautiful!

Of the nearly 500 notes and letters I send each year, only five have been returned.

Dick Ymiolek is not in Tampa, FL; Charles Munson is not in Luray, VA; Sister Rat Ruth Turley is not in Akron, Ohio; Bob Wagner is not in Williamsburg, VA; and Lind Vaughan Wright has left Hilton Head, SC, for Falls Church, VA. We received a letter from our distant past.

Ross Campbell Fraser’s wife, Pat, wrote in July from Delton, MI, notifying us that she had to place Ross in a skilled care facility, and she hopes he will have a short stay if 53

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1957: The beautiful wives of the class of ’57 paused for a photo while attending a mini-reunion in Lexington with their spouses.

the rehab is successful. Ross and Pat have been married 52 years, and she admires his character, integrity, grit and tenderness. Pat admits Ross is not a communicator, and he never even wrote his family throughout their marriage. That being the case, I am glad Pat took the liberty to give us an update. It was wonderful to hear from her.

Ken and Katie Dickinson sent us a picture of Ken and me at Dixie Crossroads, a favorite restaurant. By now, they probably have left Merritt Island for Roscoe, SD. They also included a photo of the Poffenbarger clan that attended VMI. There are Dr. A.L. Poffenbarger ’55, John Poffenbarger ’57, John C. Poffenbarger ’79 and Ryan Poffenbarger ’16, who just received an Army three-year ROTC scholarship.

Finally, Dawn and I want to thank Lucy McCormack in Virginia Beach for sending us a card for our 20th anniversary. She even included a picture of us at our wedding.

Lucy is very thoughtful. It brings back many happy memories.

’58

Lee McCown

Greetings to all from rainy Richmond!

We have emerged from the drought zone quite nicely this summer. As a person who spent a lot of his working life trying to get adequate water to people from water wells, 54

I like rain. It keeps those aquifers charged and the landscape green.

Thanks to all the BRs who let me know that my first outing as class agent went pretty well. You will recall that the notes included the homily done by my stepdaughter, the Rev. Alane Cameron Miles, at our reunion memorial service. Within the homily was a hilarious obituary for a Long Beach, MS, man named Harry Stamps. Would you believe he was a good friend of Earl Bennett?

In fact, he was the dean who hired Earl for a teaching job that he had for about 15 years.

“My eyeballs almost hit the pavement when I saw his name in the Alumni Review,” Earl said. “We ate lunch together every day for years, and it was always a laugh fest. He had so many funny stories to tell.” To add to the small-world nature of all this, Mr. Stamps’ wife’s cousin is a good friend of Sue’s and lives in Oxford.

In June, Laura and I set forth for Florida for two weeks, which included a great lunch at a restaurant in Palmetto Bay honoring Wes and Annemarie Roberts for their service as class agents. The following Florida folks covered some distances to be there: Art and Joan Carnevale from Crystal River, Bill Gee from Boca Raton and Bob Spurrier (with Tim Whitehead, who also accompanied him to the reunion) from Melbourne. Bill said Vivian could not come because she is immersed in the rebounding real estate market, which we were all glad to hear about, although we missed seeing her. Art and Joan have a new boat and a new house, although

they have not yet moved. Bob is still enjoying life in Melbourne with his new knees.

Rue and Tommy Nance (Bob’s neighbors in Melbourne) had a funeral to attend and were unable to be with us.

We presented Wes and Annemarie with the engraved bowl mentioned in the last notes and a certificate from the Alumni Association signed by Gen. Peay ’62 and Class President Williamson honoring their years of service.

Laura and I appreciated their hospitality and class agent advice at their home amidst the palm trees. They are hoping Wes gets clearance from his doctors to come up to Virginia in the fall. We hope so, too, as we have a family wedding on House Mountain (nephew Allen McCown ’11, class agent for his class, is marrying Rebecca Dancy in November) and would love to visit the Robertses at their Old Dominion paradise near Fairfield.

Our visit with Mary Jo and Bill Thomas and their son, Steve ’81, in Naples was bittersweet. Mary Jo was in hospice, and Bill was suffering from severe back pain.

Regardless of those realities, we had a great visit and covered a lot of memories. Steve is a pilot with American Airlines and based in Miami, which is a great help to his parents, who are facing life’s challenges with their usual intelligence and humor.

Bill, Mary Jo and I all grew up in Roanoke, and Bill’s mother and mine played bridge together from age 14 until their mid-80s.

We had a good laugh about something Bill started saying about his mother, Amber, after her 80th birthday, when she quickly recovered from a fall on the golf course that broke some bones. He would declare: “I’m changing my will. I’m leaving everything to Mother.” We also spent a few days in the South Beach section of Miami Beach, which we love, but has changed a lot since our last trip there. The Art Deco hotels are being very well taken care of, as is the beautiful beach, but the addition of many more restaurants means that dozens of sidewalk umbrellas form a tunnel that blocks the view of a lot of the building fronts.

One of our South Beach discoveries was the Jewish Museum of Florida (http://jmof. fiu.edu), which has fairly recently become part of Florida International University.

Set in a deconsecrated synagogue, it was chock full of fascinating stories and artifacts, including a photograph of a William VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Wolfson ’906 of Miami in his World War You may honor deceased BRs and living or and their stories are being forgotten.”

Gene said he enjoyed the band article in I uniform with the information that he had deceased family or friends with a brick. The attended VMI. Our Register of Former family and friends’ bricks go in a separate the last Alumni Review. “It brought back Cadets showed him in the class of 1906. area. I ordered one for former roomie, Bob memories of our band and colors marching With the photo was the information that his Greathead, one for a Lexington relative in the Mardi Gras parade and trying to stay monthly allowance while at VMI was $5. in the class of 1873 and one for my late in a proper column while the crowd pressed That is probably more than he needed back brother, Gary, whom my father (’31) tried in. I was carrying the American flag and had a time trying to keep it upright. After in those days. Do you think they even the parade, it was going to one bar had a PX? after another. Everyone was in some Our trip included a memorial serkind of uniform so we fit right in.” vice for Laura’s brother-in-law in He adds, “In almost 30 years in Florida National Cemetery in Bushthe Army, I worked for two VMI nell, a beautiful Veterans Adminisalumni, General Dan Williamson tration facility in the Withlacoochee ’47 and General Leo Soucek ’49B, State Forest that we recommend both in the obituary sections of the visiting if you’re ever in that area. It past two Reviews. Both were super opened 25 years ago, and Laura gave guys to work for and always intera big seal of approval to the contemporary architecture and landscaping. Class of 1958: In Palmetto Bay, Florida, Brother ested in any VMI news.”

Rats celebrated the work of Class Agent Wes Ernie Edgar reports that he and Nearly 100,000 are buried there. If Roberts and his wife, Annemarie. From left, the you’ve never seen how the military Roberts, Bill Gee, Laura Cameron, Lee McCown, Elizabeth had a great trip to London (in this case, the Air Force) handles Joan Carnevale, Art Carnevale, Tim Whitehead but adds: “as the Brits say, it was the flag ceremony without a casket, and Bob Spurrier. ‘lovely,’ but it was still a bit chilly so it was very impressive. The flag is it’s nice to be back home in the warm brought in folded, then unfolded, shown to very hard to interest in going to VMI, play- sunshine.” Ernie has been playing some golf the people attending, then folded again and ing up our excellent English department but says, “Despite my best efforts, there have presented to the family. All very slowly, of under Colonel Dillard ’934. But the offer been no more hole-in-ones for me, not even course, and followed by taps on a real bugle. of a full scholarship to Princeton took him close. But if I never got another one, the one Jim Moore reports the following sad news, north. Gary always had a great appreciation I got at our 55th will always be special and which you may have seen via e-mail. “My for the Institute but knew that he would have absolutely the best! It couldn’t have been roommate, Dave Johnson, passed away had a difficult time with right face/left face scripted any better, partnering with Moon from an apparent heart attack at his home in and all that military stuff. He graduated Phi Menefee, Roland Tharpe and Jerry Paull.”

Bradenton, FL, on April 17. Dave had lived Beta Kappa and became the absent minded John and Susie Peters took a great trip this near his two children in Coral Gables, FL, professor that he was meant to be – but was summer, too, which included the Dalmation until last December.” a good enough sport to tailgate on the Parade Coast. And in other big Peters’ news, John’s Also sad to hear from Jack Cunningham Ground at one football game a year with the book about the history of the U.S. District was news that our late BR Lacy Smith’s rest of our VMI family. To check on your Court for the Eastern District of Virginia widow, Margaret, died on June 28. Many brick status or for additional information, is out and bears the catchy title of From will remember the Smiths’ hospitality at call the director of alumni and reunion giving Marshall to Moussaoui: Federal Justice in their dairy farm near Buchanan during one at 800-444-1839, ext. 244. the Eastern District of Virginia. He gave an of our long ago reunions. Frank Norvell Gene Grayson, our esteemed class agent excellent lecture about the court’s history at recalls visiting the farm as a cadet with Bill for 19 years, reports that he talks with Bob the Library of Virginia that I heard and was Keefe (whose wife, Carolyn, also died since Jordan frequently and that Bob has a bad inspired to buy two copies – one for a gift our reunion) enjoying the excellent cooking knee and hip. Gene has also seen Bob Buck- and one for Laura and me. I promised John of Lacy’s mother. The family property was land and talks frequently with Joe Gray. that I would do more than just look at the called Ageon Farms, and Ageon was Lacy’s He says Walter Leach was not at the recent pictures. The breadth of cases that have come middle name. Survivors include son Lewis reunion of their Radford high school class, before this court is staggering. Everything and daughters Catherine and Elizabeth. which in addition to Gene, Bob, Bob and from Aaron Burr’s treason trial to the Dalkon Deepest sympathy to them and to Bill, who Walter, included Howard Dean, quite an Shield and Kepone cases and hundreds of appreciated hearing from BRs right after outpouring for such a small town. cases related to civil rights.

Carolyn’s death.

Frank Boeggeman has lots of news, startGene is enjoying the VFW and was elected Speaking of memorials, I recently got junior vice commander for his district, which ing with his need for another trip “under a clearer understanding of how our brick has 16 VFW Posts. “It’s really enjoyable the surgeon’s knife” to have his left carotid program in the front of Barracks works. talking with the World War II vets. Some artery cleaned out. This procedure sounds You are entitled to a brick for every $2,500 were at Normandy, the Bulge, Saipan and like a complicated one to me, but it will only you have contributed to VMI since 1998. Okinawa, a truly remarkable group of men, require an overnight hospital stay. Frank’s 2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES 17-year-old granddaughter is applying to the “I” for next year with the class of 2018, and Frank says, “My grandfatherly advice to her if she gets accepted is to get her hair cut and styled, keep a spotless room, look straight ahead and don’t let those mean old third classmen get you down.”

Frank joins a number of BRs in expressing surprise at VMI’s return to the Southern Conference: “Why would they want to continue the agony of constant defeat? I’m 76 years old and would love to celebrate a winning season one more time before I go to my heavenly reward. ” Charlie Hayes’ take on the situation was this: “I may be missing something, but there doesn’t seem to be any logic in this move.” Gene Grayson says, “Hopefully this football season will show an upswing, and I really believe it will.”

My own take on this is that we won’t be any worse off back in the Southern – two of the heavyweights are leaving for the Big League (App State and Georgia Southern) and the teams coming in should be closer to our competitive level.

This from Drew Troxler: “Six weeks ago I was in a car wreck, and my ’89 Olds Delta 88 frame saved my life. That plus God and my seat belt. When I awoke in the ER I was sure I had made it to heaven as I felt I was tightened up in a coffin, but in my far off mind I had to be sure God wasn’t kidding me. I wiggled my toes and stretched my nine

Class of 1958: John Peters, signing copies of his latest book, From Marshall to Moussaoui: Federal Justice in the Eastern District of Virginia, at the Library of Virginia.

56

fingers (one was cut off 55 years ago), took a lot of exhales and deep breaths, but then I thought I needed to be sure my mind was still working, so I would test myself! So, I started singing out and sounding off real loud, the Greek National Anthem in Greek like I had learned when I was 12 years old in Greece. They in the ER all thought I was crazy; I was just happy! The words all came back to me, and I was so happy I had made it (even with five cracked ribs)! All is well!

Thank the Lord and the VMI Ratline! (Of course, my girls have grounded me.)” We all wish Drew a full recovery.

Anna and Dave Pai visited relatives and friends in New Jersey and attended a wedding reception at the Tides Inn in Irvington, VA. They returned home to Davidson, NC, for a breather before leaving home again for an extended stay with their son, Mike, and family in Portland, OR. Dave says they have signed up for a five-day tour of the Southern Oregon Coast. What a beautiful and rugged area that is! I trust Anna will have a couple of her exquisite pictures for the next Review.

Gene Martin reports from Bradenton that Jack Payne was recently there with Helle Kiiss, whom many of you met at the reunion.

“We had them over to our house. We had a wonderful but too short visit. Peggy and I really enjoyed the short time we had with them. They had flown into Tampa, rented a car and were in the process of visiting southern Florida for the purpose of possibly looking for a winter home. When they left our place, they were headed to Naples and Miami. It was so wonderful that they took the time to visit us.”

Ewing Best says she hated to miss the reunion. It has been five years since Charlie’s death, and she knows he would be so happy to know of the birth of grandson, Charlie, now two, to his son, Michael, and wife, Morgan, and they are now expecting number two in January – it’s a girl.

Sam Witt reported that the upcoming movie about the New Market cadets wasn’t filmed at New Market because they couldn’t figure a way to shut down the traffic on Interstate 81! Sam continues in pursuit of the greatest grandfather trophy with grandson Henry, the first grandchild for him and Sally.

Carolyn and Bill Harshaw were headed to Santa Fe with Betty and John St. George ’57 following Carolyn’s successful bilateral hip replacements. She is doing fine, but Bill

may need a hand replacement after all the writing and dialing he’s doing to raise funds for the restoration of the statues by Moses Ezekiel ’866 in the Norfolk Botanical Garden! Donations are still greatly needed and who better than VMI ’58 alums, who have two Ezekiel statues on their class ring? Bill sends special thanks to Tom Saunders for a generous contribution. In 2011, the 11 Ezekiel statues were voted number one on the Virginia Association of Museums’ Virginia’s Top 10 Endangered Artifacts, with 35,000 votes. The Titian statue is nearly complete except for a new nose and finger.

Many of you got the e-mail alleging to be from Tom Smyth, who was supposedly trapped in Manila, in need of exactly $2,680 to pay his hotel bill. Jan Woodman called Tom just to make sure it was the fraud he expected it to be and it was. They had a nice chat.

Ernie, Elizabeth, Laura and I were delighted to learn that Gary Cutler ’04 – a captain in the U.S. Army whom Laura and I got to know when he was in high school and encouraged to come to VMI – is being posted to the Royal School of Military Survey outside of London to work on his second Army-funded master’s degree. Ernie and Elizabeth joined us for Gary’s graduation from OCS at Fort Benning some years ago and have all followed his career closely.

Ernie and I were proud to pose with him at Fort Benning in front of a portrait of George Marshall ’901.

Gary has had tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan with the Corps of Engineers, and Ernie reports that this new assignment is a very prestigious slot. Gary was within two weeks of finishing his tour in Afghanistan when one of his EMs was killed by hostile fire. While accompanying this man’s body to Bagram Air Base for transfer to the U.S., the helicopter in which he was flying came under fire from the ground, and Gary sustained a grazing flesh wound of his right forearm. He had it sewn up at Bagram, and it did not stop him from participating in the annual alumni varsity rugby match at VMI about two weeks later! “Flesh wound” doesn’t sound like much, but Laura thought it looked like something out of a Frankenstein movie! I would say he has earned his choice assignment in England along with the Purple Heart he was awarded and the Bronze Star he had already earned. I include all this information about VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES this worthy young man because a number of you contributed funds for his education at VMI. You know who you are. I thank you and he thanks you!

I’ll close with that as it is an example of what it means to hold VMI so close to your heart.

Thanks to all of you, Lee

’59

Shep Shepard

Another sad quarter for the Stonewall Class; we lost two BRs, Mike Irvine and Jim True. Mike passed away after suffering with liver cancer for some time. Karen said he was not in pain when he died. Mike was laid to rest at the Presidio National Cemetery in San Francisco, CA. Ann and I always looked forward to Mike and Karen’s visits to Melbourne, FL, where we always had a good time being with them. Shortly after Mike passed away, we received word from Sarah True that Jim was failing. Sarah brought him home from the hospital, and he died peacefully shortly afterwards sur-

Class of 1959: From left, Pete McWane; Ann Shepard; Stacey Mease, daughter of Bud Mease; and Shep Shepard in front of the famous Red Ox Inn in Heidelberg, Germany.

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rounded by his family. Jim was interred in Ulster, PA. Our thoughts and prayers are with Karen and Sarah and their respective families in their time of grieve. Farewell BRs, we’ll miss you.

Neither Sonny nor Nancy Eskridge’s health seem to be improving. Nancy has problems with blood pressure and internal bleeding brought about by medications, and Sonny is in a rehab center where he has a long way to go before he is released. God bless them both.

Jimmy Johnson wrote that he and Jim Sam Gillespie have a common great-grandfather, James Harrison Gillespie, who fought at the battle of New Market, unfortunately not with the VMI Corps. He was a member of the 23rd Bn, VA Infantry from Tazewell County.

“The Italian Stallion,” Leon Elsarelli, didn’t fall off a turnip truck, but he did manage to fall off a ladder while engaged in a humanitarian project building a protective device for his bird feeder to eliminate the squirrel threat. Leon went down hard and sadly his paratrooper training failed him; his PLF was askew and he ended up on the surgeon’s table. He’s been through rehab and is home recovering under the vigilant eye of Marge. His injuries included a broken hip so Marge has her hands full. A speedy recovery, Leon.

John Martin has finally given in to Teddi and submitted his retirement notice from the chaplaincy position in the Bon Secours Richmond Health System. John admits it has been a great experience lasting just short of 10 years. To celebrate, John and Teddi gathered daughter, Sydney, her twins and son, Rod, and two of his four children and took them all for a beach vacation at Emerald Isle. They thought it was a great way to start a new beginning. Teddi likewise decided to reduce her outside commitments by giving up her chair as chairperson of the communications committee and editor of the community newsletter. John reports that she has already found new ways to keep busy while he continues to volunteer as a chaplain a few days a month in a separate hospital system.

Bruce and Norma Mackenzie enjoyed a visit from Nevins Wilburn not long ago, and they had a wonderful time discussing old times at the Institute. Nevins is still a little depressed and not in the best physical shape, but he is hanging in there. Bruce and Norma are doing as well as can be expected

with Norma, who as you know, suffering from Alzheimer’s disease, and getting worse each month. It is probably tougher on Bruce but he is a stalwart and the memories of their wonderful life together keep him going.

Class of 1959: Don Messner took his grandson, Adam Mitchell, to Legacy Day at VMI in hopes of persuading him to become a future Keydet.

Harry and Terry MacGregor are doing well; they celebrated their 54th wedding anniversary in June and continue to be blessed with good health and a great family. Harry recently had a good experience dealing with Jostens, the manufacturer of our class rings.

He doesn’t know who made the decision to contract with Jostens, but from his point of view it was a great decision and he thanks you. Terry and Harry are looking forward to the Fourth of July. Their son, Lee ’92, an Army LTC, has completed his two-year battalion level command assignment in Qatar. He and his family are coming home and going to his next assignment at Fort Belvoir, VA. The whole family, consisting of their six children with spouses and most of the 20 grandchildren, will be visiting for a family reunion on their farm in Raphine, VA, and to welcome Lee and his family home.

John Trout stays in contact with Hal Dayhuff and reports that Hal is having problems with his health. John, on the other hand is doing pretty good; he was recently recalled to work after a two year retirement. He is the Director of Truck Claims for Houston International Insurance Group. John has been working since age 15 and retirement made him extremely nervous. In his spare time, he is restoring a 1940 Ford Standard 2-door; the same type of car he had to sell in August 1955 when he came to VMI. He has been a member of the Early Ford V-8 57

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1959: Sonny and Skippy Bishop gathered the family for a photo.

From left, row 1: Lee Grandolph, Clay Grandolph and A.J. Vittone. Row 2: Walter Bishop, Heather Bishop, Marla Grandolph, Skippy Bishop, John Michael Vittone and Sarah Vittone. Row 3: Orin Bishop, Keith Grandolph, Sonny Bishop and John Vittone.

Club for many years and just had to get the old gal back.

Molly Mundy Pope reports all is well in the Pope/Mundy family. Last summer Molly was blessed with three new grandchildren all within three months. Watson would have made a wonderful grandfather and would look great with the babies wrapped around him. Both children, Taylor and Gardner, live in Richmond so Molly’s life is extremely busy and very joyful. New husband, Bob, has two grandchildren, 6 and 4, so Molly and Bob are late arrivals at being grandparents but loving every new and exciting experience.

I got a note from one of our BRs that he had his class ring stolen from him at gunpoint while in the metro in Paris years ago and wanted to know if I knew where he might get a replacement. You might recall I sent a message to each of you and asked the same question. Dick Irons responded and said that a broken knuckle and arthritis makes it impossible for him to wear his ring so he generously offered to give it to our BR. The two got together and the transfer was made thanks to the generous act of Dick Irons.

No sooner was that transaction completed when another BR said he was missing his and wanted a replacement. Fortunately, Peggy Smith Colville had just contacted me and suggested I contact Col. Keith Gibson 58

’77, curator of the VMI Museum. When she donated Kenny’s ring to the museum she noticed a cache of rings. I called Keith and made arrangements for our BR to borrow a 1959 class ring with the understanding that upon his demise the ring will be returned to the museum. This was agreeable to our BR and the transaction was completed. It pays to advertise, so thanks to Dick Irons and Peggy Smith Colville they made two BR very happy campers. Speaking of Dick, his golf game still sounds pretty good to me but he’s not happy with it; he’s still hitting from the blue tees and carrying a 10 handicap but says old age and arthritis in the wrist are hurting his game. Dick says as long as he can walk the course and play golf a few times a week he’s happy.

After 45 years as a lawyer, the last 20 spent prosecuting child sex abuse cases, John Reed has finally retired and intends to spend more time in his beloved Haiti looking after his interest there. Son, Jack, will get his black belt in karate next year and he’s only 8 years old. Anne still prosecuting for the city of Staunton; all’s well in the Reed’s house.

No question about the big news in Lee Southard’s life, he and Nancy got married in June and had a four-day honeymoon in Marco Island. They both sold their respective homes and have moved into a condo in Fort Myers, FL, where they are now

struggling to identify what belongs to Lee and what belongs to Nancy. Congratulations to a great couple.

Bob Hobson took his son, grandsons and his sons-in-law to Alaska for a fishing excursion. They went out of Seward two days; first day was for halibut where one of his grandsons caught a 178 pounder, a 113 pounder, and another 88 pounder. His other grandson pulled in a 53 pounder. Needless to say, when they returned to the dock for the picture taking they drew quite a crowd. The second day they went for salmon where the limit was six per person. They had their limit by noon. The following day they headed for the Kenai River where for two days they caught Rainbow Trout, Salmon and Dolly Vardens. The weather was fantastic and they got to watch brown bears fishing in the river from about 15 yards away. It cost a fortune to ship 410 pounds of fish, but for Bob, this was more about family and less about fish. Bob and Lois wish they could join next year’s riverboat cruise group, but Lois requires her other knee to be replaced. They are hoping the operation and recovery does not put a crimp in attending the 55th Class Reunion.

Jim and Lew Edmunds loved the VMI birthday card with the Color Guard on it.

It was especially meaningful to Jim, who was a Color Guard private; it brought back some good memories. Everyone’s always impressed by the colors, and Jim felt privileged to be a part of it. Jim and Lew are going to celebrate Jim’s 75th birthday by spending four days in Sonoma, CA. They hope to relax, visit a few wineries and eat lots of good food. Mary Lew’s health is pretty much the same; she will soon undergo a procedure to open up arteries to reduce pain that she is experiencing in her legs and stomach. Despite Lew’s health problems, they do plan on attending the 55th Stonewall Class Reunion.

Things didn’t work out very well for Jack and Joy Angolia during their last trip to Europe. They recently completed what was supposed to be a riverboat cruise on the Elbe River. Normally, they would be thrilled, but who knew that the river had flooded and was loaded with debris? What was intended to be a riverboat cruise turned into one big motor coach trip. They are not happy campers and not happy at all with their travel company.

Pete McWane, Ann and I were nearly subjected to the same thing that Jack and Joy experienced. We were on the Rhine, VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Main and Danube Rivers just weeks before was overwhelmed by the response; we have backyard, a beautiful lake. Tex must undergo the big floods overwhelmed Europe. When eight couples joining us including Mel and yet another catheter this time for an ablation we returned from our trip, we heard stories Jean Anderson, John and Chris Patane, procedure. He has had catheters before to similar to what Jack and Joy experienced. Buzz and Virginia Nowlin, Penn and Betty break up blockages in the arteries and in The rivers were so swollen that the river- Whitescarver, Lee and Nancy Southard, one case to put in a stent. This procedure boats could not get under the bridges. We Ralph and Janice Rae Lawson and Bob will be similar except they will go inside felt very fortunate. When we passed by Haines and Monique Harnetty. We should of the heart to correct his atrial fibrillation.

Heidelberg, we were able to break away have a great time visiting every place from Tex joins many others in the class who have from our tour group and link up with Bud Paris to Vernon to Normandy and ending undergone the same operation and I’m sure and Susan Mease’s daughter, Stacey, who up back in Paris. Patrick Hughes wishes all will keep Tex in their prayers.

Noland Pipes is preparing for our 55th teaches school in Stuttgart. We got to spend he and Kay could join us for the cruise, but the whole day with Stacey and she proved unfortunately, Kay has Alzheimer’s and Class Reunion. He is responsible for the to be a wonderful guide taking us to places tends to wander off so their traveling plans memorial service for our fallen BRs. This year we move inside J.M. Hall, which is a in Heidelberg that we loved when we were have been severely limited.

Don and Carol Messner might have good thing since the weather in March can assigned there back in 1970. Pete, as usual, be very fickle. Mary and Noland did not disappoint us and was the visited family in Cashiers, NC, same great traveling companion and Bedford, VA, and then went he has always been. He brings his on to Tappahannock, VA, for a great sense of humor with him family reunion in the Millers everywhere he goes. We lost Pete Tavern/Tappahannock area. They in Budapest when he wandered enjoyed the cooler temperatures off at the Fisherman’s Bastion and as well as the pleasant breezes forgot to return to the motor coach. from the Rappahannock – quite a Fortunately he had his altimeter, change from Memphis. anemometer and compass with Buddy Kramer tripped on a him and made it back to the ship parking space concrete barrier just before we pulled anchor. What and injured himself pretty bad. He an embarrassing situation; every had surgery and after a few days program manager was dispatched in the hospital, he was back home to look for him. We are disapClass of 1959: Bob Hobson and family had a successful pointed that Pete will not be able fishing day in Alaska. From left, Bob Hobson, grandson recovering under the watchful eye to join us for the Seine cruise next Todd Hobson, grandson-in-law Callen Bagley, grand- of Denyse. He was in pain, but his year. Pete signed up for a cruise sons Daniel Hobson and Ryan Hobson, son Scott, and spirits were good, and he should be back to his old self in no time. visiting the major cities on the their guide, Kevin.

He will have no use of his right Black Sea at the same time. We another future cadet on the horizon. Don hand for some time. Brad Willard visited will miss his wit and good humor.

I heard from Howard Sprinkle not long took his grandson, Adam Mitchell, to VMI the Vietnam Veterans Memorial where he ago, he was asking about Pete Johnson for Legacy Day and he feels he might have obtained a rubbing of Doug Wauchope’s and Hurley Cox, both classmates of his in hit a cord. As they were departing, Adam name. Brad remembers that while at VMI high School. He wanted to remind us that turned to Don and said he wanted to stay in Doug was looking for adventure in his life Pete once played football for the Giants, the same hotel when they come back next and tried to persuade him to join the French but was either cut or didn’t stick around for year. Adam might have been influenced by Foreign Legion with him. Doug was a some reason. Howard was in Turkey at the the cadets who snuck them into the EE lab, UDMC LT in I Corps near Da Nang when time and lost touch with Pete. I gave Howard at Don’s son, Doug’s ’87, request, to look at he was killed in June of ’65. Hal and Barbara Pete’s address and hope they were able to some of the experiments they were working Dayhuff have finally made the move to a catch up with one another. I lost touch with on. Adam was impressed. Good luck, Don 55-plus community and love it. Activities are well planned with lots of activities if and Carol.

Hurley years ago.

Gordo Keiser has finally retired from full- you want to take part. They are still looking I received a call from Mel Anderson not long ago and he suggested that we get a time work and is now working part-time at for someone to take a great 4,500 square group of BRs together to enjoy a cruise on the Potomac Institute in northern Virginia. foot, two-story home in Georgia off their the Seine River. Initially I was reluctant be- Gordo just can’t seem to shake it off all hands. Sonny Bishop had one of the best birthday celebrations he had ever had when cause in the past I’ve not been too successful together.

Tex Carr is spending lots of time at the Skippy, his children, their spouses and five in getting BRs together; our most successful trip was to South America in 2009 when we lake in AL while his home on Amelia Island, grandsons threw a birthday party for him at got seven people to go. Nevertheless, Ann FL, is under repair. He spends his time pick- The Homestead in Hot Springs, VA. They and I signed up and invited BRs to join us. I ing blueberries and enjoying his 43k acre all wanted to make sure Sonny would be 2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES 75 by the time we celebrate our 55th anniversary of our graduation from VMI on June 9, 2014. I really screwed up on the last issue of the class notes when I said that Anderson was a member of the LAME Group. I’m terribly sorry. It should be Ned Addison occupying the “A” slot. Apologies to Ned. The group tries to meet every other Tuesday but doctor’s appointment, trips to visit grandchildren, etc. sometimes messes up the schedule. Dave Goode, a.k.a.

“Blingman” is back on board, so the name changes to G.L.A.M.E. until the snowbird goes back to Florida. Rusty Loth recently took a trip to Sarasota with Dave where they picked up his new Grabber Blue Mustang Convertible. Dave needed Rusty to keep him awake and serve him martinis. It was a great excursion, although Rusty felt like he was back in the Ratline when Dave whipped it on him each day about carrying coupons for his favorite chain restaurants and insisting that he go to Dollar Tree for any provisions.

Wal-Mart is Dave’s favorite by far; he loves those Walmartians on parade. Nowell Loop attended Sallie’s 50th reunion at Vassar College and Nowell says it was great seeing how much the girls had changed, for the better, he quickly added. On their way, they stopped by to visit with Laura Masotti in Troy, NY.

She is doing fine living with her sister in a beautiful retirement complex with a stunning view of the rolling hills in central New York.

They had a great dinner at a neighborhood eatery where they exchanged a few stories.

Later this year, Nowell and Sallie will celebrate 50 years of marriage. They plan to get all the kids and grandkids together for a good old Texas B’BQUE with all the trimmings followed by a return trip to Nassau and time at the Atlantis resort. Since they will be in the Sunshine State, they also plan to travel the causeway to Key West. Both Nowell and Sallie are thankful for family, friends and the experiences they have had.

Mel and Jean Anderson and Bob Haines and his girlfriend, Monique Harnetty, are now cruising the fjords of Norway. I look forward to viewing some pictures and hearing some exciting Norwegian tales when they return. Look for more in next quarter’s class notes. Baldy and JoAnne Fall are just as proud as they can be; their son-in-law was just promoted to brigadier general. His new assignment will be in Savannah, GA, which I believe is the combined bases of Fort Steward and Hunter Army Airfield.

Congrats! Max and Lee Ann Blanchard are looking forward to visiting Phoenix in the fall to attend their grandson’s wedding and

a family reunion all rolled into one. Should be a great time. Bill and Connie Nebraska claim they don’t lead an active life anymore but when they write about their excursions it sounds pretty active to me. Over the past few months, they have visited family in Ohio and Vermont. They don’t have any big trips scheduled yet, but thinking about booking a Christmas cruise as they have done for the past two years. Bill still has his annual fall fishing trips scheduled – Canada for salmon and steelhead in Ohio. Ann and I continue to press on. After returning from our Majestic Rivers of Europe riverboat cruise, we made our way up to Daytona Beach to spend a week with Bud and Susan Mease who were visiting with their whole family from Utah.

My brother and his wife came down from Huntsville, AL, and one of his two kids came over from Naples with his family. Our son, Brett ’87, and his family came down from Atlanta and our daughter, Christine, and her family came up from Cocoa Beach. The weather was perfect, interrupted every once in a while by a quick storm or two, but overall it was a great week getting reacquainted with our family. We plan to go on a cruise out of Port Canaveral on one of the big ships next month with 30 of our neighbors. That should be fun if we can find our way around the ship; we are so use to small riverboats it might be difficult. After that we are looking forward to the Stonewall Class 55th Reunion on March 24-25, 2014. I hope we see everyone there. Once the reunion is over, we join seven other Brother Rats and their spouses or significant others for a riverboat cruise on the Seine River in France. Life is good. Keep those cards, letters and e-mails coming in.

Yours in the spirit, Shep

’60 Class of 1959: Brad Willard pointing out Doug Wauchope’s name on the Vietnam Memorial after obtaining a rubbing.

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L. Edward Tolley

With heavy hearts and reverence to our Brother Rat, Allan Walker, the eight BRs attended the funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery in June. As you recall, Al passed away back on Nov. 10, 2012.

Earning the honor and privilege to be buried at ANC by virtue of his long service in the U.S. Air Force and rank of colonel, Al and VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES From Ella, I learned of Otis Pool’s wife, Jack and Nancy Horgan, Herb and Terry Cookie earlier decided to have his remains rest with thousands of military men and Arlene’s, year-long fight against cancer Vaughan, Henry and Linda Brown, and women who served our country. The service and the chemo and radiation treatments. It Sam and Lynne Horner. Otis and Arlene was performed on a beautiful sunshiny day has been a success so far and, hopefully, a Pool, and Jim and Jackie Savage, both attended by many family and friends. It is a permanent fix. With such a schedule it is ob- couples normal attendees, were not able to most impressive ceremony. vious that Otis has missed a lot of his green squeeze into their schedules another great weekend.

As for the picture accompanying Mentioning John Moore’s ethese notes, Vaughan Foxwell is mails, if you are in Jim Greatkneeling in front, Jack Willard and I are leaning forward, George Ax head’s e-mail address book then is on the left, standing, then comes you’ll never need for reading Jack Seamon, Roy McLeod, Jim material, all quality stuff. From Tumlinson and John Moore as pictures and anecdotes from the you go to the right. Handsome 60s, Vietnam era, disco days and dudes, eh? rapper events, I often wonder who I had a long overdue chat with keeps this stuff! My all-time faFoxy and Helen Foxwell after vorite is one he recently sent titled the service. Neither has gained an “Why I hung up the flag.” Not to ounce since leaving the Lexington be too outdone, Pat Hughes will environs. Farming has a way of keep the world posted on the shekeeping you fit. Of course, traipsing nanigans from Washington, again around the U.S.A. and back and all credible and spot on. Now forth to France to visit their grand- Class of 1960: Brother Rats attending Allan Walker’s Ray Crickenberger must be as children also maintains the spring funeral services at Arlington National Cemetery in close to the NSA and Pentagon as in their pace. With the number of June 2013 were, from left, front row, Vaughan Foxwell, Edward Snowden with the latest Jack Willard and Ed Tolley. Back row: George Ax, Jack full body scans these two receive Seamon, Roy McLeod, Jim Tumlinson and John Moore. military armaments!

Hap Miller, Jim French and I at the airports they will never need had lunch at Niko’s Restaurant radiation treatments.

George Ax looked great. He is still busy and time, but with fingers crossed, the ordeal is in Lexington and kicked around various still hates the D.C. area traffic. He is still the behind them. Our prayers go out for you, topics. After the meal, I spent a couple hours with Jim as he showed me his fullyquiet, reserved, composed man who earned Arlene and Otis. zero demerits during his cadetship. Of course, Sam Horner spent the weekend with Joe restored 1928 Ford Model A. It is a beaut. with Col. Ax ’33 close at hand (if you forgot, and Ella a couple weeks back as Sam accom- This is a two-seater, two-door, two-tone George hailed from Lexington, VA, and his panied his daughter, who is a horse trainer, paint model, and it looks like it is in mint dad, Col. Ax, taught math) he couldn’t get and several ponies to a show in Lexington, condition. Jim has a second Model A that too rowdy.

KY. Sam has some knee ailments but still isn’t quite fully restored that is a roadster John and Pat Moore from Olney, MD, came is able to golf a couple days per week. Sam with rumble seat and gray color. Jim for the service for Al Walker. If you are lucky still does horse doctoring but not as much as showed me his gallery of pictures of old log enough to be on John’s e-mail list, you need in the past. Now if Sam could find a horse cabins, covered bridges, trees, landscapes and then his family tree that goes back into to read them all. He sends good stuff and in that could run like they did in his heyday. short bites.

Jimbo and Ruth Smith’s golfing tourna- the 1600s in Germany. The man has more Jack Willard, Jim Tumlinson, Roy McLeod ment this year included 196 golfers, the pictures than LOOK magazine! I am sure and Jack Seamon were present for the Al most ever, and the benefit for equipment I could have spent the rest of the day just Walker service and appeared in very good and supplies for their annual trip to the looking at the very interesting stuff Jim health, but Tumlinson was in bad need of a Dominican netted more than $27,500! has assembled, and he can find it on his shave. What would the Marines have to say Brother Rats who made the charity event computers. He has two computers linked to him or do to him? were Jim O’Dell, Henry and Linda Brown, together so that he can call up anything on I talked to Ella Sisler, the beautiful wife of Sam Horner and Dick Stone ’61. The event one and the subject appears on the second “Joe Bananas,” and she gave me some scoop was well supported by local golfers and the screen! Yep, he is a computer geek!

Hap Miller is recovering from a six-week on Joe’s work and play during this not-so-hot community. Ruth tells me that there are summer. Yes, Joe is still sacking up the green many very generous friends who help in visit from grandchildren! He is ok with only a couple wrinkles in his brow. Tough as he gets at it early and leaves late. The work many ways. Good people. is sandwiched between golfing, back yard The Hilton Head weekend, an annual man, that Miller.

That is the news, men. Thanks, Brother BBQing, the family and an occasional Red Sox event for the past eight or 10 years, ingame. Joe is on cardiac rehab and doesn’t move cluded the following couples: Jim and Rats.

Rah Va Mil... Ed like “Mr. Smooth” of the Banana League.

Suzanne O’Dell, Peanuts and Jan Elliott, 2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES Editor’s Note: An article about John Hilliard ’60 appeared in the 2013-Issue 2 Alumni Review. A caption in one of the photos incorrectly identified Gen. Bolden Jr., who is not a VMI alumnus, as a NASA administrator. In fact, Gen. Bolden is commander of the 45th Space Wing. Our apologies to Gen. Bolden and Mr. Hilliard for this error.

In attendance were Ed and Lee Adams ’59, Tom’s host, Bill and Danya Redd, and Barbara Phlegar. As mentioned in previous class notes, the Annual Charlotte Folk Society Music Jam was held again this year at the Phlegar farm. The 25th anniversary edition of the Phlegar farm gathering wrapped up early Sunday after three days of music, dancing, barbecue and rain. Tom and Barbara Phlegar said it was the last gathering, and Sue and I along with George and Edna Sal Vitale Jr. Henning, Barry and Elizabeth Orndorff and Tom’s brother, Dan Phlegar ’66, were there to listen to some great bluegrass and old-time musicians. The weekend attracted several hundred people, and the event was featured on the cover for The Roanoke Times.

It is hard to believe that the summer is Phlegar took his turn on the dance floor as almost over and soon after you read these the band played an old-time fiddle medley of notes Thanksgiving will be upon you. Where “Ragtime Annie” and “Liberty,” tunes that does the time go? have been played in the Virginia hills since Since the last Review, Sue and I have had the days before Thomas Edison invented an opportunity to be with many of you. the recording machine. Will there be a 26th Again, we invited ourselves to the Richmond Annual Music Jam? Tom says no but who Brother Rat party at the Youngbloods’ knows. Sue and I stayed the weekend with house. It rained that day, so the activities the Hennings and our visit concluded with were brought inside and we had a wondersupper at the Hennings with the Orndorffs. ful time. Attending the party were: Wyatt The Hennings had just returned from Naiand Monica Durrette, Dennis and Gerry robi, Kenya, and we enjoyed the animal Curtis, Dick and Judy Youngblood, Sue and pictures and stories about the safari living Sal Vitale, Dick and Betty Jarvis, Bill and and, of course, the grandchildren. Their son, Norma Phillips, Bill and Joyce Gibbings, Edward Henning ’94, is a consulRhett and Jan Clarkson, Booty tant to the American Embassy in Farleigh, Oscar and Caroline Kenya and his living conditions Mabry, Ann Woodfin, and John were? Ask Edna!

Woodfin Jr. ’91. Dennis Curtis I attended the “VMI Tidewater created a 1961 VMI class flag and Old Timers” luncheon and we had on it were signatures of the Richa good showing of BRs. Attendmond breakfast club members. I ing were Kenny Legum, Charlie was asked to carry the flag to all Fuller, Charlie Stevens, Robert Brother Rat functions and secure Williamson, Bill Gibbings, Sal all the 1961 BR signatures I could, Vitale and Larry Wetsel. Everyand I agreed to do so. Now I just one behaved! My Rat roomy, Joe have to remember to take the flag Lisiecki, has been active with the with me! Ann Woodfin looked great, Booty Farleigh is coping Class of 1961: Attending the annual Brother Rat get- VMI Chicago Alumni Chapter together in Richmond on May 18, 2013, at the home and says they used to be a great with his loss and Oscar and Rhett of Dick and Judy Youngblood were, seated from left, are still the same! The Young- Caroline Mabry, Sue Vitale, Ann Woodfin, Judy Young- bunch of guys. Well, a graduate bloods underwent an aggressive blood, Betty Jarvis, Norma Phillips, Monica Durrette, from 2013 has joined, and she is home improvement project, and and Jerry Curtis. Standing, from left, were Joyce Gib- the first female in their chapter and now he says what a great bunch of Judy reports that “it is done and bings and Jan Clarkson. people (Smile). Dick Stone said it will be nice to get back into our that the first Wilmington Chapter bathroom with all new fixtures – it was gutted to the studs in the walls and a first class performer and at the Greenville, event was a huge success. They also have a granite was installed in the dressing room NC, Rotary Club’s annual formal banquet very impressive group of alumni and current built-in cabinets, and I couldn’t be more he did his “Hem & Haw” act to a rousing cadets. The Rat Send-off party at the Cape pleased with the way it turned out.” Any of audience who liked his comedy and music. Fear Club in downtown Wilmington was

’61

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us who have done renovations while living in the space have lots of empathy for them.

Next on the agenda was Arlington Cemetery for the interment of George Van Orden. The Marines gave George full Military Honors with a band, troops and Marines at attention at each turn in the road leading to the site and the gravesite ceremony. The rain held off until the end of the ceremony. Attending were Dick and Judy Youngblood, Russ Stone, Dick Jarvis, Sal and Sue Vitale, Charlie Fuller, Ed Fox, Bill Fout, Dave and Charlotte Harbach, Ray Hanlein, Spike Callander, John Tharrington, Holmes Smith, Booty Farleigh, Raine Gilbert, Carl and Becky Hirsch and many retired Marines and family. At the end of the ceremony, we had an “Old Yell” loud enough for Pete Kleinberg and other Brother Rats interred there to hear. Sue and I were off to Gettysburg for the Annual Shuba Pig Roast. The weather was outstanding, the pig cooked to perfection and the people, as always, were enjoyable. Attending were Bill and Sandra Fout, Ken Ayala, Larry and Jerry Wetsel, Stu and Sylvia Woodcock, Harry Shepherd ’58, Ken and Wanda Scott ’60, Jim McFalls ’59, Kenny Legum, Sue and Sal Vitale, hosts Lou and Pris Shuba, and many relatives and friends including my grandson, Mark Muckelbauer Jr., a VMI hopeful. Tom Phlegar is

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES well attended. Dick and Di Stone also went is getting easier, and Brother Rats even Christiansburg on the way to West Virginia to Greensboro for the Donny White ’65 af- easier. Hugh and Nelle Gouldthorpe were for 10 days at the Pipestem State Park. At fair, stayed with Walt and Anne Stokes and in Scotland on the Island of Iona, and as the park, the entire family joined them for played golf with Bud Alligood at Bermuda they were boarding the ferry to get to Fion- a week of relaxation, games, travel and lots Run Golf Course with the Donnie White nphort, Nelle spotted someone in a VMI of food. Robert and Pat Williamson and folks. Finally, Larry Wetsel and Larry Wil- jacket. It was Dave Bella and his wife, Robert’s 90-year-old-plus mother, Mimi, liams attended the Western Tidewater Rat Cammie. They had a delightful time and the took a two-month sailboat trip down the Send-off party in Portsmouth, VA. There couples made plans to meet in Oregon when ICW from Norfolk to Charleston. The local were 24 good-looking Rats that include three the Gouldthorpes visited there in August. newspapers heard about her and were so imLarry and Jerry Wetsel are still on the move. pressed with Mimi Williamson’s seamanship women and one veteran.

Lots of the Brother Rats were traveling They enjoyed the Alumni Association cruise that they wrote a feature article about her. since my last report, and I received many and especially enjoyed being with BR Paul The Williamsons stopped in Southport and good quality pictures. However, I am limited Johnston and his wife, Deborah. Barbara visited with Dick and Diane Stone. Frankie to including only five pictures and five typed Jean LeFon had a great trip to Amsterdam and Jim Ring joined them in Southport, and pages, so if I left something out or did not and had an opportunity to return to some of Mimi left the boat for a visit with the Rings use your picture forgive me. August 17, Rat the beautiful sights Bootsie and BJ had been in Evans, GA. Jim’s son, Jim W. Ring ’88, matriculation, will be a memorable day for to in the 60s, especially the Keukenhof Tulip recently graduated from the U.S. Army War Battle Haslam and his grandson, Wynn, a bi- Gardens. BJ said Amsterdam is a fantastic College in Carlisle, PA. Congratulations! ology major. Wynn’s mother, Uncle Charlie destination, and the Dutch people are very Harrison and Terry Fridley are very proud and Cammy Bryan ’69 will also be there as friendly and English is spoken everywhere. of their son, Mitch Fridley ’89, who took Dick and Anne Weede celebrated their leave from VMI and is currently attending Wynn signs the ledger and then gets doubletimed to the barbershop! As for Battle, he is 50th wedding anniversary at an unknown the War College in Carlisle. This is quite still running tractors and chainsaws when destination! I do know that Dick was spring an honor for a Reserve Army Officer. Mike needed and spending 75 percent of his time gobbler hunting with his son in New Eng- and Jan Bissell’s son, Gary Bissell ’89, was in Chapel Hill with Elisabeth, who we can land somewhere, drove 1,458 miles straight promoted to colonel and is still working for Gen. Peay ’62. Marty Bisfinally meet at the Institute Society Dinner in November. Gates and sell, Gary’s wife, made 06 before Margaret Richards completed him. (Smile.) Gerry and Charlene the downsizing move and are Eubank vacationed in the Lake still unpacking. Gates still has his George area for about a month. boat but was only able to use it Gerry is getting back to playing this season for a very short time. golf and his game is coming back.

David Harbach is enjoying his He will join the golf group at our retirement and babysitting for spring outing. Gerry’s son, Chris his son’s children in Richmond.

Eubank ’91, took command of David said that every two months the Army Support Group in Kuhe meets with Charlie Company wait. In the last Alumni Review Rats, Ed Seager ’64, George Rap(Issue 3), there is a picture of Chris, and he sure favors Gerry. port ’64, Andy Colyer ’64 and Ken Ederle was not selected Mike Murphy ’64 at the Cafe for the HOF. This is very sad! I Deluxe in Bethesda, MD. John notified Ken’s daughter, Megan and Irene Gangemi cruised from Ederle, who is still in the Army Boston to Quebec City, Canada, on Holland America Cruise, and Class of 1961: In Scotland on a ferry ride from the Is- and stationed in Kuwait. Lots of land of Iona Fionnphort were, from left, Nelle and Hugh our children and grandchildren are it was fabulous with fine weather Gouldthorpe with Dave and Cammie Bella. serving our country and we need and wonderful sights. While on to pray that God lets them safely the cruise, they met Doug and Pat Huthwaite ’73. Lee and Betsey Badgett back to Lexington, and then realized he return to their families.

Bill Hala enjoyed his summer in Canada were in Cancun, Mexico, for two weeks was a tired old fart. (A Marine tired?) Bill in August for their annual family reunion. and Danya Redd spent six weeks celebrat- and was very active. The Hala family They had lots of thunderstorms and had to ing their 50th wedding anniversary. They participated in the 107th Annual Oliphant stay inside, so there was no fear of getting visited New Jersey for Dani’s 50th college Regatta, which is a long weekend holiday sunburned. Lee’s hip is fine, but his other reunion at Westminster Choir College and with lots of friendly competition among the muscles don’t like working anymore and renewed their vows. Then Dani spent a few 400 families that are members. The Hala tell him so. (Welcome to the club.) days in the hospital (unexpected) and then family placed first in the marathon canoe It seems like running into VMI people visited with Barry and Betty Orndorff in race but only finished second in Hala’s 2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES 38-year-old sailboat race. I hear it was due too often, so I can’t say more. (Hint!) Larry than three days with a Brother Rat or family to crew error not boat age. Maybe Hala Respess provided the information. Moving member. (They say relatives and Brother needs to come to Tidewater and race with to the Florida in the “Villages” are Dude Rats like fish stink after three days.)

Bill Maurer remains very active with hisGibbings because Bill’s 36-year-old boat and Kathy Copenhaver. They purchased a and senile crew still win first place trophies. home about a mile from Stu and Lee Crow torical events. You may remember he wrote (Smile.) Speaking of Bill and Joyce Gib- and several other VMI people. Their final a book, Dragoon Diary, which was about the Virginians who served under bings, Joyce’s dad just turned 99 Washington and who were masyears young and her mom, 94, sacred by the Brits in 1778. As part and they are in fair health and of the Memorial Day observance fun to be with. The Gibbings Friday night beer and cookies is in Tappan, NY, Bill presented still going on, and we have had to the town a handsome stone a bunch of local BRs show up (memorial), The Baylor Dragoon including: Don Kern, Charlie Memorial. Bill is still “volunteerFuller, Charlie Stevens, Robert ing” as historian at the Tappan Williamson, Larry Williams, Reformed Church where he is Garland Payne, Kenny Legum, a deacon. Recently Bill learned Rabbit Patrick, Irv Wells, Larry that a paper on the early hospitals Wetsel (chief cookie baker), their was written, and it mentioned that wives or significant others if they in September 1776 Washington have one, and visiting BRs Dude ordered four Hudson River sloops Copenhaver and Larry Respess. to carry the wounded to Tappan.

The beer served is Dog Fish Head Class of 1961: Attending the annual Charlotte Folk Having never heard of this, you from Delaware, wine, soft drinks, Society Music Jam at the Phlegar Farm in New River, guessed it, Bill started to research Virginia, on July 27, 2013, were, from left, George Henaspirins and munchies. Activities ning, Sal Vitale, Dan Phlegar ’66 and Tom Phlegar. it. By early May, Bill had a paper start at 4:30 p.m. and end when the written, and it is causing historical last man leaves. (Smile.) waves. Should this interest you, Larry Williams is finally cone-mail Bill. As Bill was sending me his news, his dog, Brandi, took sidering retirement after seeing his rib eye off the grill counter how many of us are enjoying not and ate it. working. Larry traveled to Naples, It is always a pleasure to hear FL, where we have many full-time from Brother Rats who have been and part-time Brother Rats living. missing or just silent. Charles Larry bunked in with Hill and Manly lives in Texas and writes Heather Browning and visited that he is doing well especially with Jack and Nancy Bell, Pete with his new hip. Dick Huneycutt and Carol Roberts and Larry’s called and was surprised that I old high school running coach, recognized his voice immediately.

Mr. Walter Galliford ’44. Did Who could forget his voice? Dick you know that Coach Galliford’s is in good shape, but Rita is not 100-yard dash running time was having a good time of it. Dick’s 9.6 seconds the same year that Jessie Owens 100-yard Olympic Class of 1961: At the John Purner Memorial Service at daughter had a stroke and now is VMI on New Market Day 2013 were, from left, front row, time was 10.3 seconds? Jack Bell John Purner III, Lisa Purner and John Purner Jr. Row much better; she is still living with is feeling good, back playing golf 2: Mike Bissell, Harrison Fridley and Sal Vitale. Row 3: Dick and now is strong enough to and, of course, enjoying his boat. Jan Bissell, Mike Pitt ’60, Betty Pitt, Jim Berger, Tom have part-time employment. Tom Dave and Judith Elliott, Hill and Phlegar, Dave Harbach and Jim Oliver. Row 5: Ed Hol- Artman took early retirement Heather Browning, Andy and lowell, Larry Wetsel, Beverly Scott, Ed Fox, Lou Kiger from teaching, and as several and Bill Gibbings.

Brother Rats are doing or have Peggy Myruski, and Pete and done, spends full time taking care Carol Roberts enjoyed a day out on the boat with Jack and Nancy Bell. moving date is still pending. Sue and I plan of his wife, Jan. Tom says, “Let’s remember I understand that Pete’s brother, Taylor to be with Copenhaver in the Florida Keys the good times.” I absolutely agree! When Roberts ’67, also lives in Naples. Hershel during Valentine week with a bunch on BRs. Dave Harbach returned for his high school Murray (also in Naples) is recovering from I was thinking, if I play it right, Sue and I reunion, he saw his Rat roommate, Paul his heart surgery and now has a pacemaker. could spend two months in Florida without Scheider. Paul only spent a semester with Unfortunately, I don’t hear from Hershel the need of a hotel, if we do not spend more us. After leaving VMI, he attended Albright 64

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES College, graduated with a math degree and her stability. Other than that, she looks great they should know more about progress and later went on to earn a master’s degree. He and is still a hoot. Stu Woodcock completed her next steps. Sleepy Hollowell is in and served his time in the Army Reserve. Paul his hip therapy and is completely recovered out of rehab and the hospital, and he is getworked as a programmer for a local utility and enjoying living in Williamsburg. Lee ting frustrated and now has to go for spine and then moved on to a specialty fusion. Anne is doing ok with her steel manufacturer where he held two knee replacements. Kenny several management positions in Legum has been in and out of the IT department and retired as a the emergency room on several general manager. Paul’s wife, Ida occasions, and I understand he (my mother’s name), who prefers is now on a first name basis with to be called Becky, has been the staff. Ken is finally feeling bedridden with MS for the past better. Mike Bissell’s stroke has 15 years, and Paul is taking care diminished his eyesight and it of her. Paul likes golf and is still has not gotten better as hoped. I working on improving his game understand that Mike and Jan are Class of 1961: At the home of Lou and Pris Shuba on (golf index is 29.6), and I am sure June 22, 2013, for the annual pig roast were, from left, looking to downsize, and their Dicky Stone will add him to our Sandra and Bill Fout, Larry Wetsel, Ken Ayala, Jim house is up for sale. Walter Stokes golf list. Hopefully, we will see McFalls ’59, Jerry Wetsel, Kenny Legum, Sue Vitale, wife, Anne, is doing a lot better Ken Scott ’60, Sal Vitale, Wanda Scott, Stu and Sylvia him again real soon. since her stroke. My roommate, Thankfully, there are no deaths Woodcock, Harry Shepherd ’58, Pris and Lou Shuba, Lou Grazulis, is still very weak and Vitale grandson Mark Muckelbauer. to report. I do miss my telephone and losing a lot of weight. I talked conversations with Purner. The with Nina, and from what she said, next time I am in Memorial GarLou can’t eat anything and keep it down, and his white cell count dens, I am going to listen carefully is low. Nina mentioned Lou was for his voice calling out my nickbeing treated at Dana-Farber in name. I am sure his spirit is there!

Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Jim Bickford has become our which I understand is one of the class poet as well as a fine artist. best cancer hospitals in the Boston When George Van Orden passed, area. Nina is staying strong. Pris Jim was very saddened and wrote Shuba is doing better with the cela beautiful poem for George’s wife, Marina, and I would like to lulitis. When we saw her at the pig share it with you. roast, she had her leg wrapped and The night has 1,000 eyes, and the Class of 1961: Jack Bell, Larry Williams and Hill kept it elevated. Pris is scheduled Browning in Naples, Florida, on June 4, 2013. day but one; for another shoulder operation yet the light of the bright world (different shoulder) sometime in dies with the dying sun.

Badgett’s third hip replacement went well, January 2014. Floyd Roberts’ (my other The mind has 1,000 eyes, and the heart and Lee is finished with therapy. John Thar- roommate) cancer is still in his spine, and but one; rington had a very successful kidney opera- his bones have deteriorated. A pump (about yet the light of a whole life dies when tion and is back 100 percent. Bill Keech had the size of a hockey puck) was inserted on love is done. a successful bladder removal (cancer), and his right side and discharges controlled What to do about the Gim list always con- he is recovering at daughter Chris’ home in amounts of hydromorphone into his body. cerns me. There is good news and some not Virginia. It was a difficult operation with a Since the pump was installed, Floyd had a so good. My shoulder replacement therapy few exciting moments, so I am told. Bill is major reduction of pain. So what does he is done, and I am back to the gym. I needed a tough guy, and when I spoke to him he do to celebrate his pain reduction? Floyd a root canal and was referred to a dentist. As said Marci has him walking (necessary for has four friends stuff him (with a lot of efhe was prepping me, I mentioned VMI, and recovery), and he should be able to play 18 fort) into the passenger seat of a glider and to my surprise, he said he was Justin Martin holes of golf in a few months. Bill and Marci go flying, and he said it was great. Floyd is ’91. Dr. Martin did a good job and BR Kern should be back in Georgia by the time you gutsy guy! Others still coping include Henry completed the work. Ray Hanlein’s shoulder read this. Clayton Smith had some good Huntsberry, Jan Artman, Rita Huneycutt therapy is also done, and he is back swing- news on his son’s cancer treatment! Still and Mike Payne. There are many more BRs ing his golf club. Ken Patrick returned to several rounds of chemo to go, but for the and spouses who are plagued with illness Cleveland Clinic, and the doctors said, “See first time the oncologist thinks a resection or other problems and are in need of your you in two years.” That is great news! Ann of the esophagus may be possible. Rachel, prayers. I hope you will join me in praying Woodfin is slowly getting stronger. She uses Clayton’s wife, has two more chemo treat- for them.

The March 24, 2014, Brother Rat cruise a wheelchair when she goes out to ensure ments before another CT scan at which time 2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES on the Celebrity Equinox (11-day cruise number 6535432) is moving forward. To date we have 22 cabins spoken for, and it is not too late to book an accommodation. So if you want to go, call Beth Folic at Mann Travel and Cruises, 704-541-0943 ext. 225 or 1-800-366-7671 ext. 225, 3339 Pineville Matthews Road, Suite 100, Charlotte, NC, 28226. 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 and say “shoulda” or something stronger.

The Alumni Review containing these notes will arrive just before the Institute Society Dinner and Founders Day activities, so you will have to wait till February to hear what went on at the Bill Haeberlein/Lou Shuba football team get-together along with the Hall of Fame function and the Tom Bradshaw/Hill Browning BR get-together in Lexington. As you can see, we are a very active class.

Until we have an opportunity to break bread together, be well, stay in touch and God bless our Brother Rats and widows, VMI, our troops and the U.S.A.

Tony Curtis

’62

Jerry Burnett

George and Maureen Collins are still planning a trip with another couple in October to London, followed by a barge trip to France and Spain. They had George and Jane Rapport ’64 over for dinner and discussed his large collection of weapons and antique swords, which BR George C. hopes will go to VMI! Hughes Burton’s stepson, Scott Beasley ’16, was elected corporal and president of the class of 2016. Hughes and JoDee just purchased a Can-AM motorcycle to navigate the Blue Ridge Parkway in short trips. Walter Hylton has retired in Falls Church, VA, and said he enjoyed his birthday 66

Class of 1962: While near Sandusky, Ohio, Edmund and Margie Strickler visited a Confederate prison and cemetery site on Johnson’s Island. According to Strickler, there was a Union prison there for Confederate officers and an occasional enlisted man. Over 10,000 Confederates were processed through the prison during the war, and more than 200 are buried at the cemetery. He wrote, “A beautiful bronze sculpture of a Confederate soldier is at the main gate, and to my surprise, the sculpture was done by Sir Moses Ezekiel ’866 – we all know his history!” (Editor’s Note: An article about Ezekiel appears in the front section of this Alumni Review.)

card because of the great picture on the front of the Corps, especially the band, which he fondly remembers from all the trips they made. He feels privileged to be retired, living close to his son and family (three grandkids), friends, church and able to participate in local charities supporting homeless families.

Ed Northrop writes that this past December 27 – January 4, Joan and he celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in Santa Fe, NM. This April, Ed was honored by his Burger King peers at a dinner in Washington, D.C., for his 16 years of service on the Burger King Government Relation Committee. Sen. Isakson had an American flag flown over the Capitol in his honor, which he presented to

him. Otherwise, life is relatively calm. They are helping to operate their restaurants, playing golf, spending time with their family and grandchildren and at the beach. Tito and Nellie Gorbea are enjoying their retirement in Puerto Rico, and he finds himself busier than ever. Their 11 grandchildren (will be 12 by the time these class notes get printed) are an important part of their lives. Two of their children and seven of their grandchildren live in Puerto Rico, a daughter and three grandchildren live in Rhode Island and a son and one grandchild live in Germany. Their son in Germany is an Army major serving with EUCON in Stuttgart, and their daughter in Rhode Island just announced she will be VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES running for secretary of state in Rhode Island birthday and their 50th wedding anniversary December 14 for San Diego for a cruise to in next year’s elections. He still keeps his on August 11! Sons, Eric ’92 and Chandler, Hawaii and touring four islands. Then they’ll Harley Davidson well maintained in Rhode and their families will join them. They’ll go sail south for Tahiti and the French PolyneIsland and rides into the New England states to The Homestead for the actual date Aug. sian Islands and return to San Diego on Januand Canada every summer. Sonny and Betsy 11, 2013! Doug talks often with Jim Vest ary 15. Dick and Jackie Ward in May went Robbins write that in June they went to the and Dave Wagner; they plan to see seven up to Arlington, VA, for his Wakefield High Cirrus Aircraft owners’ meeting in Mobile, or eight VMI games. They also see Jerry and School 55th Reunion. BRs Jimmie Johnson AL. They spent July Fourth weekend in Candy Wagner who live nearby. The rever- and Weldon and Nancy Eddins also attended Philadelphia, PA, with daughter Sally, her ent Dick Carlisle took off for a week at the and stayed with longtime friends. Then husband, Marty, and their 3-year-old and Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico for Dick and Jackie went over to the Eddins’ almost 1-year-old daughters. On August senior BSA training along with his grandson summer home on the Patuxent River near 5, Betsy went to Virginia Beach Soloman, MD, for several days. for four days with friends from On their way home, just north of Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond, they noticed a car passRichmond. Sonny and daughter ing them with a fellow waving at Beth picked up Betsy and spent them with a big smile on his face another birthday weekend in … it was BR Binnie Peay! Binnie Philly. They then spent the week of had obviously spotted his VMI 62 August 18 at Sandbridge/Virginia car tag! Dr. Tony Bueschen wrote: Beach with the whole family! Earl “That is very thoughtful of you and Joan Severo took a short trip to send a card to an inactive BR to Las Vegas to pay their annual who left VMI for medical school.

“Nevada Taxes.” Their next trip I have a new mailing address: 35 will be back east from October Chatsworth Pl. NW, Atlanta, GA, 17 to November 1 for his mom’s 30327.” Fred and Judy Shirley 100th birthday. Skip and Sharon sent pictures of the baptism of Davis spent April flying their their granddaughter, Dayton. Judy airplane from Spokane, WA. and Fred are in Flagstaff, AZ, They then spent part of July at where they have a second home.

Priest Lake, Idaho, a natural lake Tom Layne retired in December surrounded by mountains, not 2012 from Shenandoah U. after crowded, peaceful and beautiful.

46 years, moved to Summerville, They are in the process of buying SC (outside of Charleston), and a 100-year-old house in Sandpoint, married July 26, 2013, to his longIdaho, as a year-round retreat. Skip time girlfriend, Huyen-Phuong Le. still remains active on several (She was with him at the reunion.) boards and helped found a healthHe’s adjusting to a no schedule approach to life. Butch Armistead: care consulting company (AC2T) “I retired from Rapiscan Sysdesigned to help labs, pathologists and radiologists survive Obam- Class of 1962: Edmund Strickler on a zip line in Ket- tems at the end of December and acare. Howard Cobb had his left chikan, Alaska. have been adjusting to my higher hip replaced in April and is now degree of flexibility. I continue to walking a mile and a half, five times a week! number two (Ian, 10 years old – now their serve on a couple of corporate boards. I am He and Nell spent a week in Lexington at adopted son). Dick will take a course in getting in better shape doing fairly intense a W&L Alumni College week on the Geor- health and safety risk management; while yoga twice a week and playing a lot of golf. gian Era circa 1700s. They will head off to Ian enjoys camp programs. Mike Lilge now I talked my wife, Mona, into retiring from Canada for 10 days in September. They get living in Bourbonnais, IL, is considering his her private therapy practice. In January, together with the Plagemans, Dave Wag- sister’s request to move near the family in she was named the ‘Los Altan of the Year’ ners, Campbells and Pat and Sharon Mor- North Carolina. He’s slowly inching toward due to her involvement in many civic and rison. Calvin Seybold’s son, LTC Clinton Tar Heel territory. Monty Williams writes charitable activities “We are doing more traveling and have Seybold ’92, is getting married to the best from the cruise he and Carol are taking in friend of his Vietnam interpreter’s youngest the British Isles and Ireland. They’re really multiple day trips planned to Hawaii (for daughter, Miss Wendy Tieu of Los Angeles. enjoying the beautiful scenery and shipboard golf), Napa (for wine tasting) and MenClint and Wendy were at VMI during our life! They’ll return in late August and head docino, CA, (for hiking and eating). In 50th Reunion; Clint was enjoying his 20th! for Blowing Rock, NC, for the fantastic fall November 2013, Mona and I are taking an Doug and Signe Marechal will celebrate his foliage. Bill and Christa Harris are leaving extended trip to Central and South America.

2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES We will be visiting special sites in six countries over a 24-day period. In June, my roomie, Walter Perrin, and his lovely wife, Mary, stayed with us for a few days. I know Walt missed seeing me, but also his oldest son, Catesby, was in town to visit with his fiancée, Jenny. In July, Mona and I visited our son, Wade, and his family in Nashville, TN. We watched a wonderful Fourth of July fireworks in the middle of Clearwater Lake on July 13 because of a big storm on the fourth! Not to be left behind the Perrins, our youngest son, Clay, just announced his engagement to Monica. We are looking forward to adding to our collection of grandchildren (six). Walt and I have kept in touch with our roomie, Gene Lazaroff.”

Ed Vinieratos writes from Moscow: “My U.S.A. return didn’t happen because I have too much summer business teaching English, mathematics and physics; and, I am awaiting the arrival of a certain young lady from Central Asia. I plan to return next summer with her, at least for a visit. Last summer, I went on a marvelous 16-day educational tour tracing Apostle Paul’s Biblical routes across Italy, Greece and SW Turkey. It was a trip of a lifetime. ”Bowles Pender writes: “Judy would probably enjoy a ride up St. Charles Street on the street car through the Garden District. Also interesting is the Mardi Gras Museum, and the WWII museum is great.

Get the ticket that includes the movie.” Ed Strickler wrote: “Flew to Lexington in April for the retirement ceremony for my brother, Col. Michael Strickler ’71, from the office of executive assistant to the superintendent.

He didn’t know I was coming, so it was a big surprise. We had a great time, and I got to see BRs Columbus Cartwright, Doug Marechal and, of course, BR Peay. Margie and I took our first cruise, a seven-day trip aboard the Celebrity Century, from Vancouver, British Columbia. We arrived in Vancouver three days early in order to check out the city, and it was beautiful. We then set sail to the Hubbard Glacier with stops at Hoonah, Alaska, to whale watch. Then to Hubbard Glacier and back to Vancouver with stops in Juneau and Ketchikan where I tried zip lining for the first time. It was a course with six different zip lines, the longest being 750 feet. We plan to be in Lexington in September for the football game with North Greenville and hope to see some Brother Rats then.” John and Bonnie Shelhorse have 68

moved to the following address just three houses from BR Pat and Sharon Morrison: 1518 Camberley Drive, Manakin-Sabot, VA, 23103. We’re in a new “no maintenance, lock & leave” subdivision just west of Richmond.

Don Aery tried flying instead of his normal swimming, biking and running methods.

He flew in Crazyhorse 2 at Stallion 51 in Kissimmee, FL. Awesome experience! Only negative was intense nausea so his vestibular system could not take the Gs. Dan Prall had a great day, courtesy of NISMO, aka Nissan Motorsports on the Circuit of the Americas [COTA] Formula One track in Austin, Texas. He got to see about 25 other GT-Rs not counting the half-dozen NISMO brought. Had a full day from 0730 to 1730, including nine laps on the track in our own cars and more in theirs. Bob and Nancy Miller are very busy: “I will be a marshal for three days at the AT&T National golf tournament at Congressional Country Club June 26-29. We could have worked the weekend but hate dealing with the large crowds, particularly on Sunday. We’ll work the 11th hole this year. It will be our third year. Nancy and I just got back from a very enjoyable Baltic Cruise and visit to Berlin. We flew in early so we got a day in Copenhagen before boarding the ship. On the cruise, we stopped in Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia (two days); Helsinki, Finland; Stockholm, Sweden; and Rostock and Kiel, Germany. Then we flew to Berlin for five and a half days. We lived there for two years (77-79) and love the city. We visited Catherine’s Palace in Pushkin outside St. Petersburg. I wore my VMI ’62 reunion cap every time we left the ship and had two guys come up to me saying they were VMI grads, Dr. Pete Jennette ’56 and one from the class of ’79. In August, we are planning on going to Atlantis in the Bahamas where we have a timeshare.” Paul and Debbie Rhodes enjoyed the July Fourth weekend at his sister’s home in Ashville, NC, and were elated to have BR Byrd and Sandra Rawlings join them for an evening. Everyone is doing well! Ted and Betty Cooley are cruising around South America. Jerry Burnett sent a copy of the VMI foursome at the Wounded Warrior Fundraising event at Kinderton Country Club in Clarksville, VA, on May 22, 2013. The team won second place out of 23 participating teams, with a gross score of 59 (12 under par). VMI was heard from today! John Anthony, on June 7,

appeared on C-SPAN for the 21st time since 1990. The occasion was a seminar on “Crisis Syria: Going Where?” for members of Congress, congressional staff, the international diplomatic corps, media and other foreign affairs practitioners. Brother Rats interested in the array of challenges the exceptionally complex Syrian conflict poses for Syria, its neighbors, the United States and many others can access the entire session via C-SPAN’s video archives library. John also writes that Bill Sydnor, Robert Evans, Jack Carles, Geoff Mitchell and he, together with their respective spouses, spent an enjoyable weekend on the Eastern Shore in the spring. Jerry Burnett, Bill Mizell, John Mills and Bobby Byrd ’63 played golf on Saturday, June 15, 2013. Burnett and Mizell won second place in their flight. From Nick Nicholson: “I recently received a note addressed to ‘WB’ and inasmuch as I go by ‘Nick’ I thought I’d point that out. Also, please change my mailing address to W.B. (Nick) Nicholson, 14402 Marina San Pablo PL, #503 Jacksonville, FL, 32224. Best regards, Nick.” From George Barnes: “In New Orleans – Felix’s Oyster House, just to the right off Bourbon Street at the entry into the French Quarter, is a must if you like raw oysters. You can stand at the bar and watch them being shucked.” Pat Lang (English major) continues: “Having finished volume one of my autobiographical novel, So Long to Learn, I am starting work on a historical novel that takes some of my Civil War characters to Egypt in the1870s. I hope to return to volume two of SLTL when that is done.” From Wayne Pacine: “In early June, I completed the Wharton School Leadership Program at the University of Pennsylvania.

At the graduation ceremony, I was mistaken to be just another proud grandparent coming to see their grandchild graduate. One of the finest professors I have ever encountered was the lead instructor in the Wharton program, Professor G. Richard Shell. To my great surprise and enjoyment, he is the son of General George R.E. Shell ’931, our former superintendent! I cannot tell you how strange it made me feel to talk to him about his remarkable father. Richard is tall, very fit and looks a lot like his father. He is truly a gentleman and a scholar. Richard has lived an incredibly interesting life since leaving Lexington, and he uses his life experiences in delivering inspirational and memorable lectures. I will never forget this experience.”

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Jerry Burnett just got this regarding BR Jay Bierman’s son: “From: Tom Peer Subject: Brig. Gen. James W. Bierman Jr. I am assuming this is the same James Bierman that was a member of your class of 1962. I was reading an old Alumni Review, and I saw where you stated you roomed with James Bierman as a Rat. His son, James (Chip, my BR class of 1987), pinned on his first star on July 8, 2013. He was the military secretary to the commandant of the Marine Corps for the last two years. He is now the commanding officer of the San Diego Marine Corp Recruiting Depot, having assumed command on July 26, 2013. The website, www.mcrsd.marine.mil, brings up the recruiting depot, and there is a picture of Chip getting the colors from the prior commanding officer.” Jim Vest took his family including his brother and his family, his son and his family, and 17 grandchildren on a five-day cruise in July! From Cal and Anne Lloyd: “Just returned last night from two weeks in Scotland. Had a great trip through the Islands and Highlands ending with the Edinburg Military Tattoo at Edinburgh Castle. Yes, we did get to dance on two of the evenings. You may have noticed two repeating themes in these notes – more family involvements and more getting out on trips, tours, cruises, etc. Please continue to do more of both, and send us your notes and photos while you’re enjoying these moments – not at the last minute! Our 55th Reunion on April 24-25, 2017, is getting closer. Plan now to be there!

In the spirit, Tony & Jerry

’63

Michael J. Curley

It’s 1030 hours on Aug. 15, 2013 … deadline for the fourth quarter notes. It’s also a beautiful 64 degrees outside, and our 3-year-old grandson is visiting. So, do I really want to be sitting here writing the notes while James and Peg are headed for the park and Artie and Ann Phaup are lying on the beach in Duck, NC, with their entire family … that would be a resounding no!

But … it’s actually fun relating the stoop 2013-Issue 4

Class of 1963: George Blood and Denny Marchant in May 2013 at the Bentonville Battlefield in North Carolina – site of the last major battle between Sherman and Johnston on March 19-21, 1865.

poop that’s occurred over the past quarter, so here goes. Headline: Both Bob and Anne Modarelli managed to be taken ill while Bob was serving a three-month rotation at the VA hospital in Tucson, AZ. Here’s Bob’s story according to Anne. “It was great seeing everyone at the reunion. Everyone looked wonderful; it was nice to see the Institute and all it stands for in full glory. On another note, Bob was in the hospital again; he just got released yesterday. I flew to Tucson, AZ, to be with him. He didn’t have a mold allergy ‘thing’ this time. He got septicemia and had a fever of 103 degrees. He is doing much better now. We are thinking of Candy Prystaloski and how wonderful it was to see her and want to let her know how much she is loved; thinking of Ghada Walker and how darned beautiful she is and how great it always is to see her and Beau. Pam Traugott looked magnificent and it was so good to see her happy and sexy as always. Betty and Mike Smither always make my heart swell with happiness – you two are such special people. Chuck Weddington, to see you so happy is such a marvelous thing. You deserve that and more. Tommy and Yvonne Myers ’64, as always, I am jealous of your great escapades. Maybe someday? I wonder if there is a cruise in need of an urologist. I think this is the only way I am going to get this man to travel. Anyway … God bless you all, and keep us in your prayers.” And now for Anne’s story. “Well, I made it! It is usually Bob that keeps us all on the edge of

our seats waiting to see if he pulls through.

This time it was his other half. I had surgery and then some complications that landed me back in the hospital. It was difficult for Bob because he had his responsibility to his job at the VA. As much as Bob tried to be with me, he was pulled both ways. Then, two weeks ago, Preston and Judy Holtry called to inform us/order us to seek refuge in their home. I arrived barely able to walk. I spent my days sleeping; my daughter flew in from Virginia and was welcomed into this most generous home as though she were family.

I don’t ever know how I will be able to properly thank the Holtrys for their love, compassion and generosity. It brings me to tears to think of how loving and safe I have felt in their midst. I have come a long way.

I am actually walking and eating again.

Laughter has also been a part of this healing process. Listening to my Bob and Preston reminisce about their days at VMI. We will leave Saturday and will miss our hosts of two weeks. They have taught me so much about unselfish acceptance, grace and love.

I will miss them but look forward to the day they visit us in the great Northwest. I thank everyone for their prayers. I know I wouldn’t have made it through without them. God bless VMI, and God bless the brotherhood.”

Staying with the GIM topic “The expressions in Jerry Bennett’s accompanying picture show the joy of good news! The latest MRI shows no new tumor growth. For Jerry that means no growth since September 69

CLASS NOTES of 2012. The neuro-oncology PA, Lisa, was ers; that’s a pretty classy act!) Hopefully, this issue of the Alumni Review and read Pete Ipjoyous to share the info with us. The 10th closes out the GIM issues for a while … I polito’s comments about me leaving in our chemo was infused yesterday, just two more suppose the inevitable is taking place; we class notes. I realize as we venture into our to go. Jerry and I thank you so for all your have become our parents and grandparents, 70s the mind fails and things are forgotten. thoughts and prayers.” (mjc: Thank you haven’t we?

I need to remind my first roomie, Pete, that for the update, Derith!) Another I graduated with the class and GIM story. Doug Sterrett “had would have been at the 50th had total knee replacement surgery on the doctors given me the OK. right knee Tuesday here in Boone, I think I mentioned to you that NC. I am now in the Glenbridge I had been on the GIM for six Nursing and rehabilitation Center. months as the result of being hit I was surprised to find that the pain in a cross walk and had my left has been minimal. Just have to get side, including my leg, really the thing working now.” messed up … almost bought it.

Guess I’ve been pretty fortunate Back to ‘Ippy’ – I hope he is still to date with my health but God not practicing; his some-timers certainly has an interesting way could hurt his clients.” (mjc: So of keeping us focused. I had an take that, Ippy!) encounter with bacterial pneumo- Class of 1963: At a mini-reunion in Rockville, MaryFollowing the 50th, we had 13 nia the first week of June and was land, on the July Fourth weekend were, from left, Denny hats left over as well as several slam dunked into the VA hospital Marchant, Harry Redd, Mary Wilson, Kent Wilson and programs and a stack of photo nametags. So, we sent them out overnight. I checked online to find Beth Redd. to the guys riding the GIM and out about this evil dog: it comes I’m still getting wonderful fallout from the others who simply couldn’t travel to the reon very fast, lasts for four or five days, and it takes about a month to recover. That’s a reunion. Pete Ippolito writes: “Mike, nice union for any number of reasons, including resounding yes to all of the above! Wow, it work. I was one who could not manage his a couple BRs who had just lost their spouse, really kicked my butt … guess everything way through the alumni website to buy a like Denny Marchant and Bill Shaner. The does when you’re over 70, huh? You gotta’ photo. (mjc: Read more on this subject later.) responses received were overwhelming. love the drugs that knocked it into submis- I e-mailed Carole Green who graciously From Jack Boyda: “I received your reunion sion though; they’re powerful, very effec- helped me out. I have since received the package today. Thanks for thinking of us. tive and fast-acting! Let’s not forget Andy photo that I will cherish the rest of my life.

Anderson: “I had total knee replacement of I did not realize how much I missed the men right knee eight weeks ago, and things went in the photo. I wish there had been more well. I’m going to try nine holes tomorrow. time to renew friendships, but time seemed Keep me in the loop. Bob Modarelli has to flash by. It was a great event, and I thank been a good friend. Andy” (mjc: So, you you and all the BRs and the VMI staff that know everything’s OK if you can do nine made it such a great and meaningful event.

The parade was the first one I had ever seen holes, right Doc? Got it!)

Kent McCraney comments on his situa- from sidelines, and it was something to see. tion: “When I found out that I had Parkin- Having a chance to talk with Col. Lewane son’s disease last October, I called Ian Tis- ’50B was really a special and unexpected sot and Bill Pearson. Tried to call Charlie event. Will Crisp sent me the Colonel’s Hammond also, and two months later, he phone number, and I intend to give him a call died. No one answered at his home when I in the near future. I also ran into Bob Marks called. If you find out about anyone else with ’73 and Doug Muirheid ’73, both from San the disease, please tell them to call me. The Diego, attending their class reunion. Bob is thing that is consistent about Parkinson’s a lawyer and Doug works for a construction is it hits everyone the same, but different. company. Bob’s office is very close to mine.

Sounds weird but it’s true. If my normal life I was a retained expert in a construction disexpectancy were 90, then I’d probably live to pute a year ago and Bob took my deposition. be 90 with Parkinson’s but with movement That has to be the first time in VMI history and balance disabilities. Depression hits 50 that occurred!”

Class of 1963: A photo taken by percent and 5 percent are severely depressed.

Funny thing! After reading the last issues Missy Alden Ogle while she was And some patients have pain. I’m hoping I of the notes, Paul Quinter offered up the visiting Dan’s alma mater. It was avoid those two things.” (mjc: Thanks for following correction … specifically for Pete absolutely beautiful, she said. sharing that, Kent, and offering to help oth- Ippolito. “Hi Mike, just received the current 70

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Both Phyllis and I were very disappointed does not have the stamina to make outings or was Cockey shrinking? Could be Hobbs in not being able to attend the reunion. We such as the reunion.” When Bill Pearson, Goodwin, but I couldn’t see the hair … a were really looking forward to it. As our our former class agent, couldn’t make it to defining differential characteristic between health continues to improve, we hope to be the 50th, I was truly saddened but getting the two, wouldn’t you agree? Even had at the next one. Thanks again, and we ap- this wonderful note from him was some a vote for Fred Green and Beau Walker preciate your thoughtfulness.” From Rimi satisfaction. “Can’t tell you how pleased I (?)! Kenny Reeder abstained as did Buff Chung, Lenny Fuscaldo’s widow: “It was was to receive the 50th Reunion hat, name DeLeo stating that they couldn’t even see remarkable for you to remember Lenny. It tag and schedule of events today. Thanks the picture. And qualifying for the “Best was very touching to receive this beautiful for the thought and the note. I’m sorry I Response Yet Award” was Anne Modarelli gift. I am sure Lenny was touched, too.” Jane was unable to attend. Everyone I’ve talked with, “That is the one and only ChuckieGreene, John’s widow, writes: “Thank you to says it was a blast: well-conceived and Wuckie Weddington, as I like to call him. so much for sending me the pin with John’s executed.” We sent Jan Lacy, Mell’s widow, A wonderful man!” (mjc: Oh, good grief, photo on it. Thanks, too, for remembering his nametag and she wrote: “Thank you for Anne! Chuckie-Wuckie?)

Next, we have our rising runhim at your reunion. I wish he and I could have been there. way star in the person of one Also, I wish he could have been Pete Brunel who appeared on at our granddaughter’s wedding the cover of the current issue of last Saturday in Mandeville, the Alumni Review. From Bunny LA. She and John had such a Reynolds: “It really is a great special connection, and I know shot – captured all the important he would have been such a proud elements. And I’m like you, can’t grandpa!” Particularly movproduce the smile when I’m trying. I would have guessed Artie ing was this e-mail from Garry Phaup on the right, who knows Kemple in California: “Mike, I want to thank you for the reunion on the left – not much to work items you sent. I thank you for with. Let’s face it – there were a your consideration. I wanted lot of old guys in blue blazers and to attend the reunion, but my Class of 1963: Ann and Art Phaup enjoying their family yellow caps with touches of white beach week at Duck, North Carolina, August 2013. health (MS) makes daily activity hair and wearing the same ring difficult. Again thanks, Garry.”

– hard to ID anybody without a (mjc: We are glad to have you back among the memento; Mell was a handsome dude!” full photo. (mjc: Yup!) And Mike Smither your Brother Rats who love you and pray Lastly, I personally delivered the package to opines, “How about Pete Brunel’s photo for you often!) I was really hoping that my Will and Dottie Scott at the Emeritus at Deep on the cover of the recent Alumni Review! third class roomie, Mike Spencer, could Run here in Richmond, and after placing the What a contented look – one shared by all of make it back. He writes: “Mike, I can’t be- hat upon Scottie’s head, got a huge smile us. What a good time we had, marred only gin to tell you how surprised and humbled and a thumbs up from this kind Brother Rat by the brevity of our reunion. There was I was when the ‘mystery box’ arrived the who is pretty much non-verbal at this stage. not enough time to properly talk with the other day. I literally choked up upon see- Wanna’ know why I do this job? It keeps you BRs, but we had such a great time together ing the VMI cap jump out at me. As I’ve humble and grateful for even the simplest nonetheless. Fifty years – hard to fathom.

And now, Curleyrat, when and where is our mentioned before, not graduating with the things like a smile!

Class of ’63 Photo Corner. It doesn’t take 2014 mini-reunion? Certified!” class is a regrettable part of my past (should Guess I goofed in the last issue by misidenhave hit the books harder instead of all those much to get this class going with e-mails ‘soirees’ to Southern Seminary, etc, with the First, an innocent inquiry from the Founda- tifying Will Crisp as David Glantz. Dave Glee Club.) I will always remember my days tion read: “Attached is the photograph that writes: “Great issue of notes and excellent at VMI and of course you, Mike Warring, will accompany the article on the class of shots, but the fellow with Col. Lewane Chuck Weddington and others. Let it be 1963’s record-setting 50th Reunion Cam- ’50B at the Depot is Bill Crisp instead of known, I will wear the cap proudly, (even if paign that will appear in Issue 4 of the 2013 me. Nonetheless, it would have been nice to it does age us with that’50 encircled on the edition of the VMI Alumni Review. Would be there. Would that we look as good as the visor!) Thanks so much to you and the class you please provide me with the names of good colonel at age 84.” of ’63.” (mjc: And to you, Mike!) We also the two gentlemen leading the class on the Please note that you can order photos sent a package to Dave and Agnes Gootee march into Barracks? I need that information online at www.vmialumni.org by clickwho responded with this note “Thanks so for the caption.” So, I sent out the inquiry ing on the “Photo Store” icon, then “2013 much for the items you sent to Dave. He to the class and received several votes; John Reunion Class Photos” and finally, “2nd really appreciates them and has had a great Cockey was an easy given but who was the Spring Reunion.” John Cockey adds: “Mike deal of fun with them. He hated that he other guy? Chuck Weddington, I thought Stockdale is the guy in second row – how could not make it to the reunion. He just initially, but he didn’t look short enough … do we get the official photo? I hope this is 2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES not it because Frank Allison has me covered – great reunion. Thanks to you and all who worked on the 50th.” (mjc: John, your question on the topic was one of many I received!)

Sports Hall of Fame! We can proudly say that Randy Williams spearheaded the drive to have one of our own inducted into the VMI Sports Hall of Fame. He writes, “We are very pleased to announce that Kenny Reeder has been selected for induction into the VMI Sports Hall of Fame with the class of 2013. The induction ceremony will take place in Lexington on September 13 and 14. This affords us an excellent opportunity to support Kenny and have a great minireunion. Kenny has waited more than 50 years for this much-deserved award and it is certain he will be very appreciative of a strong ’63 turnout. In addition to the events discussed below, we plan to have a dinner on September 14 at the Sheridan Livery.

Sometime in August we will be asking if you plan to attend and will be staying over for the Saturday evening dinner.” (mjc: So far, Randy reports that we have nearly 50 people signed up to attend both dinners … that’s beyond powerful support!)

From Bonnie Reeder, “So kind of you to send this out to Brother Rats, Michael. We are so looking forward to spending time with our dear VMI friends again. It is always like a homecoming for us. Our family is excited for their dad and grandfather. It will be a special time for all of us. Hope this finds you and Peg doing very well, feeling your best and enjoying a lovely summer. We’re in the throes of moving, downsizing. Things are going smoothly for the most part. Take good care – Ken sends warm regards.”

You’d think that forwarding Randy Williams’ e-mail to the class would be pretty simple, right? I thought so, too, at least until I received this e-mail first from Kenny Reams, then many others. “Morning, Mike.

I noticed that the subject line on this e-mail says Kenny Reams – not Kenny Reeder.

Don’t think I will ever make the Hall of Fame.” (mjc: You guys catch everything, don’t you?) Charlie Straub adds: “Lynn and I will host a brunch on the Parade Ground before and after the parade on Saturday morning. We will have more details and ask for a head count as we get closer to that weekend.”

Tom and Teak Whitford are moving!

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with on our journey through life, and we can’t get stuck on one page of life or we die, too. I missed not seeing everyone … ” (mjc: She always had your back, didn’t she, Bill?)

Thank you all for your love and friendship. Still looking for a backup class agent but no one has yet to raise their hand since the reunion, despite my pleas. In the bonds … Curleyrat

’64 Class of 1963: Jerry Bennett with his neuro-oncology physician assistant, Lisa, in August 2013, celebrating no new brain tumor growth.

“Well, I think we own a condo in Daytona Beach! At least that’s what our agent’s secretary said after I called Friday. She said they closed on the condo Thursday! So far, that’s all we’ve heard; nothing from our agent, our mortgage broker or the title company. Can’t wait ‘till we’re there and already looking forward to that drink overlooking the ocean with you and Peg? Tom ‘n Teak.”

“Hope you are looking forward to a great Independence Day!” writes Harry Reed.

“Beth and I recently had Denny Marchant and Kent and Mary Wilson up for a few days of R&R. It was a good visit. Since Denny didn’t make it to our 50th, we turned this small get-together into a mini-reunion in Rockville. We thought you might like this photo of that event.” Tom and Yvonne Myers “are back in our RV after spending two wonderful evenings with the Weddingtons, Brunells and Kellys at Chuck and Christy’s ranch. We all agree that the reunion was a huge success!”

It was nice to hear from Bill Shaner via “real mail.” He writes: “I am sorry that I missed our 50th Reunion as it didn’t feel right to attend after Betty Ann’s death, and the IRS hit me very hard even though I thought I had it all covered. I wouldn’t wish anyone to have to go through all the many events with the loss of someone like Betty Ann. All of this is something we have to deal

John R. Cavedo

It’s hard to imagine that by the time these notes arrive in your copy of the Alumni Review, there will only be five months until our 50th Reunion.

Just before submitting these notes, I informed all e-mail subscribers that on Friday morning, Aug. 2, Bill Black succumbed to cancer. He was first diagnosed with lung cancer nearly five years ago. We thought it was in remission, but it came back metastized into his kidney. Al Fiorini, Bud Duryea and Tony Munera (all roommates) spent his last few hours at his bedside.

We’ve lost too many Brother Rats, especially these last several years. All the more important for those of us remaining to gather in Lexington next April. See the closing from Bill Crone’s comments later in these notes.

He says it well.

Last month’s notes were submitted two weeks early (and a little short) since Sherrel and I took off for England. After arriving at Heathrow, we rented a car and drove to Liverpool to join Susan and Dick Atkinson.

The car was a six-speed, floor stick shift with the stick on the wrong side. Needless to say (but I’ll say it anyway), shifting stayed an adventure for the entire nine days. Roundabouts, and it seemed there was at least one every two blocks, each with 17 entrances and exits with constant downshifting required, proved a real challenge.

In Liverpool, Dick had been attending a meeting of one of his obesity groups where he had made a couple of presentations. From there we began our 1,500 mile trek south, through all of Wales, Cornwall and Devon, before arriving back at Heathrow (we basically hugged the West and Southwest Coast).

The weather was spotty (rainy and cloudy VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES wind our way into Zagreb, Croatia, with its historic monuments, cathedrals and a visit to the Croatian Museum of Naïve Art. Next we walked through a beautiful national park called Plitvice Lakes and were awed by 16 turquoise lakes and a series of waterfalls and cascades. Then we proceeded to Split where we embarked our small ship, the Athena. Split, a gorgeous harbor town, was built around a Roman palace of Emperor Diocletian, and it continues to house the fortress as part of the main city. We wandered high above the city into the hills and saw breathtaking views of the Adriatic Sea and islands beyond.

We set sail for Hvar on June 1. After arriving, we rode by coach through this tiny island, famous for its lavender and wine.

Class of 1964: Dick Atkinson in Alaska with three of his grandchildren, Rainy weather made the group appreciate a June 2013. great wine-tasting afternoon in a local celmost days) but couldn’t dampen our spirits. in October since it conflicts with Penny’s lar before sailing on to Korcula, the largest island in the Croatian archipelago, and home We saw castles, cathedrals, castles, cathe- high school reunion (10th, I think). Ha!” Lauranne Kitchen submitted the follow- to a picturesque medieval town. After a city drals and sheep. Did I mention we saw castles and cathedrals? On every night but two, ing, “Once again, the VMI ’64 travelling tour of Korcula the next day, we cruised on we stayed in B&Bs. Great English breakfasts group set off on another trip. Composed of to Dubrovnik.

We explored the white-walled city, seeing a with absolutely friendly and hospitable hosts Tom and Carol Allen, Mary Jo Jordan and everyplace. We found pub food to our liking her husband, Bill Bandy, Jim and Marilyn grim reminder that the wars and fragmented rather than more formal restaurants. Two Anderson (brother and sister-in-law to political situation of the 1990s of former highlights: A stop at a National Historic Mary Jo), W.J. and Lauranne Kitchen, Yugoslavia are still in evidence with the Railroad Station where we happened across Kevin Bowden, Candice Ethridge and Fa bombed out ruins of a section of the city that the arrival of two, more than 100-year-old Lu Hutson (friends of the Allens), we got hasn’t been renovated. Later that evening we steam trains (from opposite directions). The acquainted with places in Slovenia, Croatia, enjoyed a wonderful home-hosted dinner in a charming farmhouse outside of Duentire station swept us back in time; it brovnik where everything in our meal was perfectly preserved with vintage was home grown and homemade, equipment. It is actually used to get including the wine. passengers back and forth between June 4 we arrived in Montenegro. several cities in Wales.

We got soaked by rain during our The next cool stop was at Port Issac morning city tour, but the sun came in Cornwall. It is the filming site of out in the afternoon, and our dauntthe TV series, “Doc Martin.” Both less group climbed over 3,000 steps the Cavedos and Atkinsons are big to scale the top of the fortress that fans. The day was rainy, but filming overlooked Kotor Bay. On June 5, was taking place for the eighth season.

Very interesting and beautiful city on Class of 1964: W.J. Kitchen and Tom Allen at we took a heart-stopping coach ride a mini-reunion on the Dalmatian Coast in May up 19 switchbacks of road to the city the sea. of Cetinje and toured another palace.

All in all, a wonderful, relaxing (ex- 2013.

Then back down the mountain and out cept when yours truly was behind the to a ferryboat to a lovely man-made island wheel) trip. By the way, Dick was a highly Montenegro, Albania and Greece.

We left on May 24, 2013, for Bled, Slo- called ‘Our Lady of the Rocks.’ qualified navigator with more than ample The next day we sailed to Saranda, Alassistance from the ladies in the back seat. venia, a lovely lakeside city in the Julian A continuous dialogue involving my driving Alps. We spent time exploring the lake, the bania, to visit a historic site called Butrint, decisions and skills took place daily. countryside, castles, Postojano Caves and which had ruins from a Greek colony, a Tom Sebrell e-mailed, “We just got back various aspects of the Slovenian lifestyle. Roman city, a Byzantine empire and the from California. Went to a wedding and We were high enough in the Alps to find Venetians. From there we sailed on to our visited with my youngest son and then up to snow and threw a few snowballs around. first Greek island, Corfu, which we explored Tahoe for a few days. We can’t go to Crones Then we were off to see Ljubljana, Slovenia, the next day by taking a trip to the villa 2013-Issue 4

73

CLASS NOTES of Elizabeth (“Sisi”) of Austria or toured made in the near future. If you have sugges- of a huge, state-of-the-art building/clubhouse. Additionally, their Tacoma LeMay most of the island by bus. That evening we tions, get them directly to the committee.

Some of you know that retired Lt. Gen. Car Show is about ready to kick off. It condeparted for the Greek Island, Itea. From the harbor in Itea, we went by bus to the Jeffery Smith ’43 is the class agent for his tains well over 1,000 classic cars. Richard is astonishingly preserved Temple of Apollo in class. Up until the past two meetings of the photographer for the show. He’s right in Delphi, where the oracle once prophesied. class agents, I’ve spoken to him on a regular the middle of restoring a classic Plymouth We had very exciting discoveries in Barracuda. We reminisced about the these ruins and in the museum. After good old days when muscle cars boarding our ship, we cruised through were so cool and we couldn’t afford the legendary Corinth Canal on our to own one. way to Athens.

He also mentioned that his wife, June 9 found us docked in Piraeus Karen, has some severe medical isharbor, taking a bus to the center of sues, which will prevent her from Athens and being overwhelmed with attending the 50th Reunion. He says the history of the Panathenean Stahe’s going to try to make the drive all the way from the West Coast dium (constructed in 330 B.C. and with Ed and Edward Hoy. When he restored for the first modern Olympic last checked, they were not bringing Games in 1896), climbing up to the their wives either. Long drive, guys, breathtaking Parthenon and walking but worth it. along the streets of this anciently Also spoke with Mike Grine. He modern Greek city. The last day, hopes to attend the reunion but is June 10, our group all began departworried about very recent surgery on ing this beautiful land to go back to both his knee and hip. our relatively young country of the In mid-July, I spoke on the phone U.S.A. What a wonderful trip, and Class of 1964: George Rapport and Bill Crone at what fantastic people, sites and ideas Rapport’s home on Long Island Sound, July 2013. with Bailey Rathbone’s wife, Linda.

He had just emerged from severe we discovered.” surgery to clear his carotid artery folIn late May, Sherrel and I drove to Indianapolis for a reunion of a small group basis. Like Bill Garber, while we were all lowed immediately by four heart bypasses. of us who were part of the Cambodian opera- on active duty, I became a fan of his intellect Coupled with long-term diabetes, he’s had tion in May 1970 (authorized by President and integrity. Unfortunately, he has missed a a really rough time. We hope he’ll be recovNixon). A great group of true heroes. The couple of the meetings recently. Apparently, ered sufficiently to attend our reunion.

Bill Garber called to fill me in on their only non-infantryman was me (they let me he’s had a loss of vision in one eye and can no longer drive. While a controversial figure summer at the beach. Apparently, their home come anyway).

On the drive up, we stopped in Columbus, to our class, he was VMI to the core. I’ve on Emerald Isle is a great attraction for kids IN, and had lunch with my roommate, Jeff received reports that he remains mentally and grandkids. Plus, he claims he shares all Crump. Jeff is still active with his law prac- sharp and exercises daily while coping with the housework and cooking with Marion when the crowds arrive. Really, Bill? He has tice and looks at least 20 years younger than the loss of sight in one eye.

Dick Atkinson wrote in, “Susan and I volunteered, as have several other BRs, to he has any right to. He’s still very active in a softball league where he plays third base. have spent a week in Montana visiting assist with the various events at the reunion.

He had recently returned from a tournament our daughter and her family plus another If you still don’t have an assigned task, there in Florida and was preparing to leave for daughter who is staying here for a train- are several available. Just drop me a line.

Bob and Cathy Warren, making a long another tournament in Roanoke, VA. Obvi- ing course. Altogether, there are 14 of our ously, he’s a proud grandfather, showing us grandchildren here, so it has been a great drive from New Hampshire to Key West, visit. The picture included is from a 10-mile stopped by our home on Hilton Head for a a nice collection of photos.

On our return on June 22, we went by Jim hike; I and three of the grandchildren took in few hours toward the end of July. We went and Joyce Brittingham’s home just outside Glacier National Park. I didn’t know I could to lunch and had a short time to visit in our Dayton, Ohio. It was a short visit but well walk 10 miles, much less scramble 10 miles house. They had been hauling a load of worth it. Jim is still recovering from several around the mountains. Hiking here is serious things for their son who was relocating there. surgeries with more to come, but his spirits stuff – everyone has to carry bear spray. The Bob had been trying to hook up with Tom seemed high. They, along with Ed and Janice most ferocious thing we saw was a ground Murtha, who lives in Key West, but had been unsuccessful at that point.

Seager, George and Paula Warren, plus Bill squirrel, but the scenery is magnificent.”

Bill Crone sent, “Dyan and I visited some I had a nice long phone conversation with and Betsy Taylor, are the committee for planning the gifts and/or favors for our 50th Richard Beatty. He’s just been elected to old Army friends in Cape Cod last week, and Reunion. They shared several of their ideas, be the treasurer of his local Tocoma Elk’s on our return trip stopped in Madison, CT, all really well thought out. Decisions will be Lodge. They’ve just completed construction and spent the night with George and Jane 74

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES In our spare time we travel (heading for furniture that were loaded on the 29th and Rapport. George and I were roommates our entire cadetship, along with Roy Peters France soon), take care of our yard and the delivered on the 30th. Since then we have and Rev Winfree. George and Jane live in animals (a dozen or so whitetails and many busied ourselves with placing everything, a magnificent home overlooking the Long other assorted creatures). I play tennis maybe going through boxes, laughing a lot about Island Sound sitting on about five beauti- twice a week and otherwise try to keep in what we found while deciding where it all fully landscaped acres, and they treated us shape. So far, we are blessed that our health went. Finally it is all done, and as my dad told me many years ago, ‘A house is as royal guests. a home when the pictures are hung.’

It’s interesting the things you learn And ours are, at least as many of about your old roommate in just a short them as we could hang based on the visit. George is an avid collector of sawall space we have. bers and swords, and he displays them Diana has done a marvelous job in a beautiful museum-like setting. of taking flowerbeds that have been His Marine son will be coming home neglected for more than 10 years and from Afghanistan in a few weeks, and turning them into beds of beauty. he and Jane are avidly anticipating his Next year, they will be even better return to the states (what a shining as she has just ordered more than 80 moment that will be for them). Warbulbs for them. Earlier this week, ren Budd and his wife visited them the previous week, and Dyan and I Class of 1964: From left, Dave Harbach ’61, Ed we cleaned the last bed of the dead Seager, George Rapport, Andy Colyer and Mike stumps, vines and weeds and it soon were assigned the same bedroom.

Murphy at a restaurant in Bethesda, Maryland, will be ready for planting.

Fortunately, Jane informed us she May 2013.

We have begun to integrate ourhad changed the sheets, although I can now claim Warren and I shared selves into the community in varithe same bed! ous ways. We both are now active Needless to say, George and I revisitvolunteers at the Museum of the Confederacy and having a great time ed many happy times from years past, interacting with the public. Earlier and we look forward to the 50th when this year, I accepted the editor’s we can reunite with Pete, Rev and all role of the monthly publication of our Brother Rats. As we enjoyed a the Lynchburg Region AACA. It sunset dinner together with George has been an eye-opening experience and Jane at their country club, it was but a fun one; I look forward to each obvious to us that we were indeed formonth. In addition, I plan to voluntunate to have come from such diverse teer at the Appomattox Courthouse backgrounds, thrust into the VMI National Park very soon. We have mixing bowl, and come out life-long friends. I encourage all Brother Rats, Class of 1964: From left, Mary and Bud Duryea also joined the local historical assowith Cliff Crittsinger in Denver, Colorado, August especially those we have lost contact 2013. ciation and have become friends with with, to reflect on our good fortune and the local county economic developcome to the 50th with the thought of ment officer, who has asked for help. renewing old friendships. And if you have is still good. We usually make one game in On Memorial Day in Appomattox, there any old hatchets, just bury them, because life Lexington each year. Last year it was An- was a service that brought tears to my eyes. is fleeting.” Class agent comment: Well said! napolis where I ran into Dave Harbach ’61, I met a lady whose father was a member Ted Gammon sent a nice note and photo: who was my dyke, have not seen him for 20 of the class of ’44 but never graduated, as “I retired from a large chemical company or so years. He served in the Army and did he along with the entire class resigned and (Kemira) almost exactly two years ago. I a tour as commandant at VMI. It was a real enlisted in all services. At the same time, had worked for this company for 28 years, treat to see him. He was very supportive of I have been given the names of several and prior to that two other chemical outfits my son, who later became a Naval aviator, local alumni who live in the area. One is for 10 years each. Since my wife, Sherrill (a when we made a visit to the Institute.”

Tom Lawson ’71, an attorney, Bill Moore microbiologist), still has a few years to go, I Don Jones sent a long e-mail – not enough ’50, former member of the BOV and his decided to form my own chemical company, room for all of it, and I apologize for the son, David ’86. At the same time, there Gamtech LLC. Luckily, a lot of my old editing, “We finally are settled nicely in our are two members of the class of 2013 buddies and colleagues contacted me to do Virginia home, having made the final move from Appomattox County who entered some consulting and sourcing of products for on April 29. During April, we made three the Institute in the fall as well as one from them. This has kept me pretty busy and has quick weekend trips to bring the cars down Amherst County. been real lucrative. I work only on technical and place them in their new home along The clock project is currently on hold projects, no red tape or other interferences. with all but nine of our largest pieces of awaiting a decision by the state of New 2013-Issue 4

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CLASS NOTES Jersey as to who is to pay for the renovations that were required to the Warren County Courtroom after the debacle surrounding its renovation. Once that is decided, the project will be back on track and the clock will be returned. If I had it my way, that will be next year, but only New Jersey can determine that. In the meantime, I continue to uncover facts along with Bernie Hylton.

When we went to register our vehicles, I discovered that even though we have many BRs in Virginia, no one had a personalized tag reading ‘VMI 64.’ That tag now adorns my Dodge.

Diana and I will see all in Lexington next year in April. In the meantime, all are welcome here in Concord. You can put up your feet and sip some great Virginia cider and relax for a while.”

I am aware of at least a dozen other Brother and Sister Rats that are experiencing medical issues, ranging from bothersome to serious.

Please reach out to everyone. We all need support and encouragement.

Finally, as always, thanks to those who contributed to these notes. No class agent can be successful without constant inputs.

’65

Mickey Finn

These notes begin with the news that our BR Sam Morris who was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease for quite some time passed away on July 23 in his home in Port Jefferson, NY. The complete obituary is in the Taps section of this magazine.

From Nola Lee: “Thank you Mickey, I did not know Sam but appreciated the notification. VMI was so close to Bob, and I know he would appreciate you all letting me know the news from there. All is well with me. Went on a wonderful tour this summer for two weeks, 11 states and 5,144 miles of sightseeing and learning. Have always wanted to go to Mount Rushmore, and I did, and to Yellowstone and areas in between here and there. It was awesome, educational and fun. Hope all is well with you and your family. Saw John and Helen Lee in Atlanta not too long ago. We have family there and meet for a week or so for visiting purposes.

Always good to be with family. Mine is 76

really so small, as I only had one sister and Bob, the one brother. I think it makes family all the more important. Won’t keep you, just wanted to say hi and to thank you for letting me know.”

Nat Ward reports: “After 25 years I have dissolved the Mekong Education Foundation, Inc. (formerly the POW Freedom Fnd.).

Several years ago, the Pathetic Lao launched military operations in northern Laos against our inhabitants and informants re the location of crash sites of U.S. pilots returning from operations in the Vietnam War. Thus with no intel there was no further purpose for our Foundation efforts. Additionally the interest in Vietnam-era POWs has faded away along with the financial support. So, I thank Khem Pheth, our Lao American Board member, for his 25 years of faithful support.

The five-year undertaking of liquidating the stamp stock of Al Magazzu has been realized. He discovered the U.S. rarest stamp that was sold in 2000. The stamp was an 1874, 24 cent, Winfield Scott – the only one discovered to date. So now I am back to collecting items from Southeast Asia.

And this allows me time to return to writing my memories of Vietnam, starting with 1959 when my family was stationed in Vietnam.

Dad was the chief of staff MAAG, and I lived there when the first two U.S. servicemen were killed at the Bien Hoa outpost. Dad was later able to get them listed as the first two names on the Vietnam Wall.

The second part of the work has been written – my log as an infantry recon platoon leader in Vietnam 1967 with the First Cavalry Division. And the final portion is recollection/comparisons when I first returned to South Vietnam in 1994. Not sure who else other than me and my grandkids might be interested, but it’s the bottom of my bucket.

Lastly, believe I still retain the honor of being the first amputee to be retained on active duty 1967 in the U.S. Army from the Vietnam War. The only other first of which I am sure is that Diane and I were the first in our class to be married on June 13, 1965, in JM Hall. You were there to attest. And as of this writing, I believe we are still married.

Sorry if some of this is a repeat, but things are quiet in San Diego. Best, Nat.” Bob Whaley writes, “Just got back from Sam’s funeral and burial. In attendance were Bob Morgan and Larry Rose, naturally – Sam’s brother-in-law, and a large turnout.

Anyway, can we make that brick contribution by credit card or PayPal?” Answer: Yes, you can. Just go here: https://www.vmialumni.org/sslpage.aspx?pid=1363 and in the blank “Designation” select “Other” then type “Class of ’65 Memorial Fund – Sam Morris” in the blank area next to “Other.”

Jeff Gausepohl is geared up and rippin’, “In 2013 most BRs in the class of ’65 have or will be celebrating their 70th birthdays – that does sound old. Well, Joe Kruse is going to do it in a very big way – what else! Vicki and I have been invited to join him and Kristen in late September with family and close friends (three shifts spread over two weeks) for an extended birthday bash at the Villa Le Rose in the Florentine Hills, south of Florence, Italy. Should be fun.

This time, 50 years ago, we were getting ready to return for our second class year, halfway through the ‘VMI experience’ and looking forward to getting our class rings.

Our 50th Reunion is not that far away. It is a great time to start reflecting on VMI’s impact on our lives and how best to help keep the Institute alive and well! I am sure the chemistry majors will have 100 percent attendance at our 50th and 100 percent participation the Reunion Campaign!”

Johnny Mac Marshall updates us on his travels: “Just a short note this time. Jamie and I were in D.C. over the weekend and had supper Saturday evening at Cosmos Club, when who should we see, but Si Bunting ’63. He and his wife were having supper with some friends, so we just had a short and very cordial visit. Small world, right?

Today in Lexington, I met with Maj. Ryan Holston, the pre-law advisor, and Cadets Christine Ray and Andrew Leib. We discussed the possibility of establishing an undergraduate Hall of Phi Delta Phi International Legal Honor Society at VMI. Their response was truly enthusiastic, so Jamie and I will hopefully be back for the formal installation in October. Tough duty for me as a member of the PDP Council to have to come back to VMI for this … not so tough.

Going on home tomorrow. Harry Bartosik, Lou Siegel and Larry Rose are really on point with the reunion.”

And a quick note from Dees Stallings, “Please excuse my delay in replying; just got back in from a trip to the university. No major news to report. We’re doing well; I’m not seriously considering retiring from VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES any of my activities quite yet. Jim Hall and I had lunch in Annapolis last week. Jim’s doing well, and he reports that he’s been in touch with Dave Frantz, who is also in the Annapolis area.

Hope all is well with you! I’ll give you a call in the near future; we may still want to feature those local JROTC cadets in one of the textbooks.”

Jane and I were in the Leesburg, VA, area for Jane to attend the bridal shower for Keri Scantlebury who will wed my younger son, Jeffrey, on Oct. 13. Our excitement is unbridled. Jeff is on the Fairfax County Police Department’s S.W.A.T and Keri is an emergency room doctor at Fairfax County Hospital. I know, he bangs them up and she patches them up. We hope they grandchild us up! That’s it for this issue. Reunion is only 18 months away, so make your plans to be there! ’65! ’65! ’65!

’66

Albert Conner

Thanks to all who have written and called over the past five months. I can’t begin to tell you all how much your prayers and words of encouragement have done for me and for Jane. We will never forget your kindness and concern. We’re still looking at a somewhat uphill battle, but I now have a few more weapons working on my behalf, and some of the responses have been favorable.

I have to add that one unexpected benefit of my illness is that I also heard from several BRs who have been “MIA” for some time. I hope it won’t embarrass them, but as others have asked about them, I wanted to mention Bob Broom and Herb Guyton contacted me after the last Alumni Review came out. I don’t want to promise any more life-threatening episodes in order to prompt BRs into a contact. However, I hope this will encourage others to let the class hear from you and to plan to show up for the 50th Reunion.

In addition to the many BRs who sent cards and e-mails, I’d also like to make a special mention of our Sister Rat, “P.J.” Eckert, Ralph’s widow. She has been a faithful correspondent with much appreciated words of encouragement.

2013-Issue 4

At this point, it looks like my recovery is making solid enough progress to resume “class- agenting.” So now the ball is in your court, and I’ll need to hear from you with news about you and yours.

Brother Rat John Jumper sent me the following relative to the Arlington National Cemetery burial of BR George Barton: “George’s graveside service at Arlington took place on June 11. The family did not send out notification, so it was mostly family at the service. I attended and wrote this tribute to George. I thought you might distribute it to our BRs or to include it somehow in the Alumni Review, whichever you think most appropriate. It was a beautiful day and a wonderful service. George was laid to rest with style and grace. Best, John.”

His tribute is entitled “We Remember Our Brother Rat, George L. Barton IV; From John Jumper ’66.” It is a beautiful expression of the Brother Rat spirit: “On the 11th of June 2013, at 3:25 p.m., U.S. Army Chaplain Captain Ten Randall spoke these profound words: ‘This is the place where Valor rests.

‘This is the place where our nation has been gathering since 1864 to render our highest honors to our fallen warriors and patriots.

‘This is the final resting place for privates, presidents, sergeants, generals and captains.

‘This is Arlington National Cemetery.

‘No square mile in the United States is more sacred.

‘Welcome to your family’s place in history.

‘These hallowed stones and marbled walls stand as a lasting tribute to over 400,000 Americans. Each came from different places, different backgrounds; but all had one vital trait in common. When our nation cried out in times of need and said, ‘Whom shall I send?’ ‘Who will go for me?’ Each one raised their hands and said, ‘Here am I! Send me!’

“And so it was that we laid our Brother Rat George to rest on that sunny afternoon at Arlington. George, like his father before him, quietly carried out his duty to his nation. Badly wounded, George was medically retired and left with physical impairments that he carried throughout his life. But he carried on, as a newspaper editor, a county chairman of the Board of Supervisors, a college professor and a high school teacher.

He continued to serve. He was married to Kathryn for more than 30 years – a husband,

a son, a father, grandfather, friend, Brother Rat and roomie.

“George, Jim Whitehurst and I roomed together for all four years at VMI – B Company, rooms 490, 303, 203 and 174. Jim said at George’s funeral service, ‘When you room together for four years you have no secrets.’ We roomed with him for four years and then we knew him for another 46 years.

We only saw George occasionally but when we did it was as if we were never apart. The stories were the same, couldn’t be exaggerated because we all knew the absolute truth about one another. The bond was the same, a magnetic force that made us seek out one another just because being Brother Rats and roomies formed a unique bond that couldn’t endure separation. It was like being brothers except that you would only rarely have an opportunity to experience something like VMI with your real brother, especially as roommates for four years.

“Our world is a lesser place with George gone. He leaves behind a wonderful wife and family – and his father who served in World War II, in the same 101st Airborne Division where George served. They are all a tribute to the worthy life of one who gave much more than he received.

“And so I was proud to walk that last half-mile with George, behind the horses and caisson, behind the soldiers and band assembled to pay tribute to a hero. In my memory I heard the bugle sound Assembly, recalled the slapping of rifles and flashes of sabers on the parade field, and the echo of ‘Taps’ from long ago, never anticipating this ‘Taps’ on this day. And I will always remember the ending to Chaplain Randall’s tribute: ‘Today as you look out upon this field of the faithful, this cloud of witnesses that surrounds us, I encourage you to remember this: No plot at Arlington National Cemetery can be purchased. Each must be earned.’ Capt. George L. Barton IV earned his place on these hallowed grounds.”

John’s tribute brings to mind Cav. Moses Ezekiel’s ’866 Arlington Cemetery “New South” monument that bears a sentiment by the Rev. Randolph Harrison McKim, a veteran officer, which serves to also honor VMI’s alumni and the class of 1966: “Not For Fame Or Reward “Not For Place Or For Rank “Not Lured By Ambition “Or Goaded By Necessity, 77

CLASS NOTES “But In Simple “Obedience To Duty “As They Understood It “These Men Suffered All “Sacrificed All “Dared All – And Died.”

I’d also like to pass on that BR Frank Louthan visited us here in Old Stafford for a second time, and we had a great time discussing our faith, class, VMI and his mission’s work. Frank also discussed some interesting religious activities taking place at VMI. His sister-in-law is the mayor of Fredericksburg, and they were visiting and attending a wedding there.

Please reach out to one another, stay intouch, seek every possible opportunity to reunite with one another and “Put on the Full Armor of God.” The hope and prayer of your proud class agent go with each of you.

’67

Jan Abernathy

This must have been the year for many among us for extended travel. Bob Green was off on another of his jaunts in Europe.

I received postcards from Rome (hot), Naples (dirty), Florence (long lines at the Uffizi Museum) and an e-mail saying he was in a pub in England waiting for a plane to Ireland. More on his messages are below.

The last I heard Gene Potter was walking the Appalachian Trail as e-mails to him said he was. I am not certain if he was doing the whole thing this year or finishing the trek he started earlier. We want photos, Gene.

Fred Smith has a new dually pickup truck to haul the new 40-foot trailer he and Judy bought to tour the country. The thing is so large they purchased a set of walkie-talkies with headphones in order to communicate during backup parking, as visibility from the truck is severely restricted when in reverse. Fred, we also need your photos of the exotic places you two visit. Pat and Marie Conley were able to resume their annual trip to Europe after a year off for Marie’s hip surgery. They keep a small apartment and RV in Germany with his former landlord of years ago. Bob Randolph says, “Nina is walking the pilgrim’s trail in Spain, the Camino de Santiago, and aims to cover 78

200 miles in 18 days. I fly to Barcelona on June 22 to meet up with her, give her two days rest and then take her to Gerona for a six-day bike trip in Catalonia, returning on June 4 after a four-day stopover in Madrid.

I will be going back to Turkmenistan in July. Will keep you posted. Bob.” Jan’s note: “J.I. Orrison’s older daughter made the entire walk some years ago as did Bob Green (not the asst. supe.) last year and so did my brother-in-law in three stages over three years. He was a WWII fighter pilot and was 80 when he finished his walk.” Bruce Amlicke writes: “Looks like everyone was having a great time at the reunion. I am very disappointed I was not able to make it. I’ll try better to make it next time. I have been sailing on my own boat for a number of years and left the U.S. for the Caribbean about 18 months ago. My plan was to leave the boat with friends and fly back, but arrangements did not work out. I am currently in Trinidad where I will stay until after hurricane season.

Then I’ll sail to Guyana and go up one of the rivers into the rainforest. The plan is then to return to Trinidad for Christmas and then sail north through the islands until it is time to turn south again next year. Trinidad is a wonderful place. It is enough off the beaten track to not be knee-deep in tourists, but with a booming economy so you can find most anything you need. The people are a mix of races and nationalities. They get along very

well. I have become interested in photography and enjoy taking pictures all up and down the islands.” Neil Schlussel (travels more than anyone): “I was in Thailand, Laos, Vietnam and Cambodia in January and will be in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia and Zambia in November. Victoria Falls is high on this agenda.” I know there are more travelers and look forward to hearing your exploits and sharing them with all.

Photos please!

J.I. and Brenda Orrison hosted a Fourth of July party. Joan and I, and Mike and Marci Bagnulo, were able to attend and met some of their friends. Mike brought a football program from 1966 to share. His Texas granddaughter attended a football dance weekend in Lexington last fall.

Amanda Orrison’s fiancé recently returned from Iraq and is finishing his active duty at Fort Campbell. He will soon be starting medical school. Linda and Bill Hughes are moving. Linda sent me a temporary address nearby their old home and said do not send mail there as they would only be there six to eight weeks. That was in May, so I expect to get a new more permanent address soon. Dan Wells and others sent me the article I forwarded about the Final Toast for the Doolittle Raiders. Brenda Ferrell is distressed that Smithfield Foods was sold to a Chinese company. “Chop suey on biscuits is just so wrong!” She went on to say good

Class of 1967: Richard Stanard caught and released this Florida redfish on light tackle in July 2013.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Kentucky bourbon will soften the blow. my compliments on your slide presentation graduation and receiving his commission, I did not have the heart to point out that a about New Market and VMI. Thanks for he was declared 4F and was unable to enter number of bourbon brands are owned by the sharing it and for taking the time and effort to the military. Returning to his hometown, he French. Bert Burckard lives in the area of put it together. Cheers!” Vance Powell: “This took a temporary job delivering telegrams, the Smithfield Food disaster but has submit- is outstanding, and we can’t give enough which included death notifications to the families of those serving in Vietnam. ted no reaction thus far. Joe Stafford He never recovered his equilibrium sent me a good story on piper Bill Miland eventually committed suicide. lin’s passing. Bill was made famous Instead of going on R&R while in in the movie “The Longest Day” for Vietnam I came home for a week for leading Lord Lovat’s commandos into his funeral. So many ways that war the Normandy beach landings playing touched all of us.” And on the video of “Heilan Laddie.” the Middle East Tribute Wall, Wayne Jim Rogers is working on filling out added: “Shades of the D-Day memothe committee for our 50th Reunion challenge. He recently (early in the rial. Erected not by the government, summer) said he had decided that but by the people. In the long run, a larger group of volunteers would Class of 1967: At a Pinehurst, North Carolina, the only acknowledgment that really spread the workload and be more golf outing in August 2013 were, from left, front matters.” John Shea comments on the row, Dave Neal, Jim Phlegar, Bruce Weiner, Ted inclusive for the class. “I have been Mervosh and Robert Klink. Back row: Kermit “Path of the Warrior” video: “This got slowly reaching out in a personal man- Quick, Bob Ward, Carter Melton, Rick Irby, rid of the dust in my eyes. I am sendner to recruit volunteers. I am always Tubby Wilkinson, George Sanborn, Tom Gillette ing this on to my oldest son, a fellow open to suggestions and advice.” If and Dave Fink. warrior. I thank God for watching over Jim calls on you to participate in the him during his tours.” I will close this organization, I hope you will be able section on the e-mails and videos I to step up to assist him. sent around Memorial Day with this There seems to be a large number from Maurice “Mike” Andrews: “I of new grandchildren among our saw the e-mails from you pop up Brother Rats: on my smartphone a couple of days Mike Holloman: “Thanks for the ago. I did not open any of them since birthday wishes! Jo and I have a new I could tell they were about today, grandson, Connor Flynn O’Sullivan, Memorial Day. My heart is pounding, born Oct. 27, 2012. Other than that, tears are on my cheeks. Thank you there’s not much new for us since for including me in your “forwards” the reunion last year (which we thorto the class. There is a guilt that has followed me for the past 50 years or oughly enjoyed).” John Chiles: “Last so. Looking back, I was extremely night, at 7:32 p.m., Ryland John Chiles emphatically announced his arrival Class of 1967: Neil Schlussel and Shelli Ross lucky to have missed Vietnam and near Angor Wat in Cambodia, 2013. the horrors therein. I find myself often in the world. The nurse didn’t get wondering how I would have reacted. his height right away because he was squirming and kicking and getting the feel praise to Phil for putting this together. I Would I have been a Brother Rat that would of this place. He weighs 7 pounds 2 ounces. hope the superintendent is provided a copy!” have honored the class of ’67, or not? We’ll He had dark eyes and a head full of dark hair. Jan’s note: “Phil’s PowerPoint presentation never know since I left my third class year Oh, and he’s incredibly handsome!” went to all of ’67 and to the alumni folks, after Christmas, married and went on to a I often ask you to send news and while including Carole and Bob Green.” Several new life. (A very blessed one at that. Two some replies are lengthy, some are quite of you have asked me about the movie, wonderful sons ... one who graduated from succinct.

“Field of Lost Shoes,” that Hunter Taylor USMA, nine grandchildren and still married George Sanborn: “Had lunch and played first informed us about last spring. I am told to my VMI love.) It is surprising how many golf with Kip Jones last Friday here in it is still in production and have no idea when of my Brother Rats I can still ‘see’ in my mind’s eye (Drum Major Neil Schlussel, Richmond. – George.” it will be available.

I hope you have taken the time to watch the The video I sent out named “I Am Ameri- for example. He is still a 19/20-year-old as video Phil Gioia produced on New Market. ca” from my Pennsylvania Military College are the others to me). The guilt is not from Here are a couple of comments. Mel Wright: friend brought a number of responses but missing military time, but because I did miss “Wow! Kudos to Phil! I am sending this to this one from Wayne Marshall is among serving our country when you and others my grandson, Jack, who is seriously think- the most touching. “While we were at the did not. So, I guess what I am trying to say ing about VMI. His other grandfather is Institute, a friend of mine was attending is, thank you to all my other Brother Rats Tom Sebrell ’64.” Mike Ingelido: “Hi Phil, Pennsylvania Military College. Just before that did serve, did your job and continue 2013-Issue 4

79

CLASS NOTES to be an asset to our struggling, wonderful Andy (grandson) wants to go to VMI, but multiple Bruce Weiner jokes. Since Dave country.” Jan’s note: “I responded to Mike his grades are not strong. He would rather Neel and Kermit Quick both flew in B-52s and said he has served his country well by be in the weight room or playing football!” during ‘the war,’ we were treated to many My last minute call for news and photos of their harrowing experiences. Dave Fink being a father and grandfather and husband and citizen.” If you have any comments to produced a lot of last minute activity. All was selected to receive the first annual Least add, I expect to hear them and share them. photos were submitted with their captions, Prepared Award. Can’t say too much about After this exchange, I asked him about his and the AR folks selected those that were his actions that won him the trophy, but the symbol of his foibles comes in two-ply rolls. family and Mike added: “My USMA gradu- high enough in resolution to appear here.

We missed John Vaughan this year. ate son, Scott, became a Huey pilot after We understand he is on some type graduation. He was second in his flight of double-secret probation over in class at Fort Rucker and was able to Charlotte. We have been told Kip choose Fort Bragg. He was there a short Jones is shrinking less heads, honing time before he was sent to the first Gulf his short game and plans on being in War. After the war, the services were Pinehurst next August. We continue promoting early outs and he decided to to enjoy these days together. It is notake it. He did a startup company in the dot com – dot gone days. His company ticeable that we don’t stay up quite as survived and is still cranking today ... late at night anymore, and fewer of but he left as CEO shortly after the dot us are playing 36 holes several days gone days. He has four daughters. He in a row. Everyone does remember probably would have continued having how to laugh at themselves as well children, but his younger brother, Ryan, as others. Robert.” had four daughters and then ... the rare Class of 1967: While in Montgomery, Alabama, Colin Campbell and Bob and Nina Andrews boy. At that time Scott’s wife Robert Randolph found this state memorial Randolph represented our class at a marker honoring Brig. Gen. Birkett Davenport bowed out of the ‘competition’ and Fry, CSA, in the Oakwood Cemetery Annex. Service of Pilgrimage and Rememstated to me, ‘If your son, Scott, is going Randolph was searching for Hank Williams’ grave brance for Jonathan Daniels ’61 in to have any more children, it will either when he discovered this.

Hayneville, Lowndes County, AL, be adopted or with another woman!’ So, on Aug. 10, 2013. The VMI conthat was that. My Rat year roommates tingent was led by Bob Heely ’69, Pete Wells: “Karen and I took a tour of president of the VMI Alumni Association. were Heber Venable ‘Bo’ Traywick III, Dennis Hill, David Neel and Bob Hinkel. Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in early June. Look for an article in the Association News I was able to be at Bo’s wedding years and We visited the Krause home in Saint Louis, section of this AR. years ago but have not seen the others. I miss The Dana-Thomas house in Springfield, IL, Bob Hess (on his annual prostate cancer the Johnson Wax Factory and Wingspread in awareness ride on his Harley): “Well, I them … room 437, I think.”

Bob Green: “Hopefully you will have Racine, WI, the Monon Terrace in Madison, finished this year’s Prostate Cancer Pony gotten the postcard mailed from Naples, WI, and the entire Taliesin property and all Express from the Tail of the Dragon at Deal’s but if not, it’s because there’s been a lot of structures in Green Spring, WI. We also fit Gap, NC, to the Capitol in Washington, D.C., confusion in Italy about current postal rates in a Milwaukee Brewers baseball game at on August 11. Got PSA?” Janice Clarke: – and not just by me! I now have a great set Miller Field in Milwaukee and a visit to “Jim and I welcomed our second grandchild of Italian stamps of diverse denominations.” the Abe Lincoln home in Springfield, spent to the family. Zeke James (after his grandMany among you have received photos a day with my elderly aunt in Saint Louis daddy) Shalawylo was born to our daughter, with your birthday greetings this year – if and visited Jefferson Barracks, MO.” John Amy, and her husband, Greg, on June 28, at I remembered your special day. I asked for Chiles went to his 50th high school reunion 7 pounds, 5 ounces and 21 inches. He has news and responses. Jim Joyner: “Forget- in McLean, VA. Mike Bagnulo went to his wonderful parents, and his 18-month-old big sister, Breonna, thinks it is really neat ting at our age is accepted behavior accord- 50th in Alaska.

Robert Klink: “The 20th Annual (esti- to have a baby brother (so far). She is such ing to my children. Your thoughtful e-mail with the picture of my roommate, Henry mated) VMI Class of ’67 Golf Outing to a joy to us and we know Zeke will be, too.”

Dickerson, and his bride, Mary Ellen, was Pinehurst, NC, is now in the record books. Ron and Brenda Niedermayer: “Just a small great and lifted my spirits just reminding Joining me this year were Bruce Weiner, note. Brenda and I are doing OK. Since I me of all of my special times spent with Dave Fink, Tubby Wilkinson, George work part-time auditing state hospitals from classmates at our reunions.” Joan and I Sanborn, Dave Neel, Tom Gillette, Bob May through September, we have not had a were hoping to visit with Bob and Peggy Ward, Jim Phlegar, Carter Melton, Ker- vacation as of yet. We do plan two weeks in Flynn … if they could get a cow sitter. Bob mit Quick and Rick Irby. Ted Mervosh the Outer Banks of North Carolina in a few wrote: “June probably won’t work. We was on the gim and had to withdraw from weeks, which is really not noteworthy. We’ll have company and the rain has put off hay the shenanigans, but he did drive down for have most of our 12 grandkids with us (not cutting. I’ll probably be very busy in June! one night of filet mignon, crab cakes and all at the same time) and my mother-in-law, 80

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES so I don’t know if that is a vacation or not. I am sending you a picture of the wife and me with two of my hobbies (rebuilt Corvettes) that retirement has yet to allow me to indulge in fully. Maybe this fall, weather allowing.”

Tom Mustard, with all new plumbing: “I have received a ‘clean bill of health,’ according to reports from my various doctors and am getting stronger each day. Thanks to all for the good thoughts and powerful prayers. Tom.” J.B. Farley: “It’s been a great summer, with a lot of time with our family enjoying the nice weather. We are all well, and we are thankful for that. Carol and I took a trip to Savannah and Charleston earlier this year, and she got a picture of me wearing my VMI cap, standing at the main gate of The Citadel. I must say that The Citadel has a great looking post, and it seemed to me to be a slightly larger version of VMI in many ways. As I was getting ready for the day, I realized that in a little less than a month, it will have been 50 years since our class matriculated. Fifty years! Can you believe it? That’s really amazing, and I just can’t quite get a grip on how quickly the time has passed. So, best wishes to everyone and their families, and remember those of our BRs who are no longer with us. Everyone stay in shape! Regards to all, J.B.” Ken Chun: “Monica and I just got back from another driving trip to Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. In July, we made a last minute trip to Savannah, Charleston and Williamsburg.

(He sent photos of buffalo and The Citadel bulldog – should have coordinated with J.B. for a group shot!). If I had more time to plan I would have swung north to visit y’all in Canton, but this trip came together suddenly when Monica and one of her grad school classmates decided to reunion in Savannah after 25 years.” Mel Wright: “If anyone is a Civil War buff and wants to see Fredericksburg and Chatham Manor, come on down! I can do a tour.” Mel is a local tour docent for battlefields. And there will be a review on Bo Traywick’s new book on the Civil War, Empire of the Owls, in the next issue of the Alumni Review. My copy arrived from Amazon today.

Joan and I hope to see many of you at a ball game or other VMI event this year. Keep your e-mails and photos coming in. Thanks to you all for allowing me to serve as your class agent. I look forward to another 25 years on the “job.”

2013-Issue 4

’68

Tom Hickey

Hal Hostetler (Portsmouth, VA): Brenda and I attended an Old Corps Luncheon at the Westminster Canterbury in Virginia Beach this past week and had a fine time.

We were among the youngest. Great “Old Corps” spirit.

Wayne Burton (St. Mary’s, GA): Carole and I went to England to attend our son’s wedding to a lovely British girl. We now have family connections in six countries on four continents. There were 12 nations represented at the wedding. We may sell our house and just visit all our new in-laws. We spent a month there visiting Scotland, England and Holland. Visited the newly renovated Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. This is now one of the finest displays of art in the world.

Bob Mills (Orange Park, FL): Working as a pilot for CSX Corp. Going a few more years or as long as my medical holds up. I have a new lady in my life, Rita Stewart, from Little Rock. We travel a lot and enjoy our new life.

Bill Todd (Springfield, VA): Kathy and I will be taking a Disney cruise to Alaska with my two oldest daughters and their families the first week of July. We should have fun spoiling our four grandkids on that vacation.

My youngest son, John, is getting married this January here in northern Virginia. He is the last of our five kids, so that’s five college educations and five weddings we will have out of the way by early January. Then it will be time for Kathy and me to have some fun!

We are building the “dream home” in a gated community called Landfall in the Wilmington/Wrightsville Beach, NC, area. The biggest challenge so far is getting through the architectural review board approvals, but we hope to start construction next month and have it completed by March of 2014. I will continue to work for Boeing until it is built and then plan to retire. Kathy still thinks I will never retire! I keep telling her that we have bills to pay so why not keep working for a while. I think I will lose that argument after the last one is out the door.

Tom Coffey (Wytheville, VA): I celebrated turning 67 by going on a nice easy six-mile run this morning. There was a time when 67 seemed old, but as we are in the process of

arranging a birthday party for my mother, who turns 100 next month, that is no longer the case! Still translating, but also taking time out to visit our two grandchildren in Summerville, SC, where our daughter is working as a high school science teacher.

In other family developments, in response to the horrific bombing incident at the Boston Marathon this year, our son, Ethan, who is a research engineer at Oak Ridge, has set up a fundraising website to benefit a couple of the people who were seriously injured. His plan is to get people to pledge money for them through the “Be Strong Stay Strong” organization based on how well he does next spring in running the Boston Marathon ... twice! He will start at the finish line, run to the starting line, then turn around and retrace his steps to the finish line. I think he is quite capable of doing this, as he has won a couple of 50 kilometer (31-mile) races and finished 10th in the JFK 50-miler a couple of years ago. For those who are interested in further details, please point your browser to: http:// bostonmarathonx2.wordpress.com/ Bob Waldron (El Paso, TX): We are anticipating our first grand babies, twin girls, due on Sept. 7, 2013. While we have booked rooms and hope to come to the reunion, the birth of those babies may interrupt our plans. We feel most blessed to have our first grandbabies on the way.

Rick Brothers (Sedona, AZ): Jane and I retired halfway between Sedona and Oak Creek, AZ, on Sky Mt. in 2011. We are loving the Southwest warm outdoor living … golf, tennis, hiking the red rocks, exploring ruins and not waking up to snow! Travel, visiting friends, children and the grandchildren is also consuming mucho time! Our abode is always open to all BroRats … and anyone who went through four years at the Institute. Honestly, every life challenge after four years at VMI was easy!

Terry Bowers (Martinez, GA): My son, Timothy, came through his cancer treatment with flying colors; it was a very rough ordeal, but he is now cancer free for threeplus years. Tim and Nancy’s daughter was born in March 2012; Evelyn is a real cutie.

I flew to Colorado in January to help Tim and family move due to his transfer from Fort Carson to Shaw AFB. Nancy was on doctors’ orders not to drive. So dear old dad pitched in. On April 3, Evelyn was joined by brother, Jonah. They are just over 53 weeks 81

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1968: Jim Burg watched slurry bombers at work on the Granite Mountain fire near Prescott Resort, Arizona, in June 2013.

apart. Not bad for Tim considering having children was thought to be pretty iffy after his chemo and radiation. So, we have two new grandchildren within a two-hour drive.

Also, Laura had her third daughter in February. Joyce has been kept very busy. That makes seven grandchildren for us, and I have it from good sources that will be all. I’m not sure I could even remember the names of them anymore, so that is good. Matt and family are transferring from Fairchild AFB in Washington to MacDill in Tampa in July.

Woohoo, only an eight-hour drive away! The first time my three kids have all been east of the Mississippi since 2002 when Tim left for Seoul. Of course, they all expect to be visited, so there will be little rest for Joyce and me. Fairchild was a great base though.

Last summer when we visited, we all took a trip to Banff National Park in Canada.

Magnificent is all I can say.

We may have more time to visit the kids soon. The doctor Joyce works for three days a week is closing his practice the end of this month, so Joyce will be in her second retirement. I was planning on cutting back my hours in the next 6 – 12 months, but because of sequestration, the hours may be cut to zero ere long. We got the word that due to budget reductions, the MOX workforce will be cut by one-third by September. So, I may be unemployed! Not the way I had planned to go out. I’m not sure there is any demand for a PE of 67 years.

Just heard this week that VMI is moving back to vastly changed Southern Conference 82

Class of 1968: View from the parking lot of the Prescott Resort overlooking the Granite Mountain fire.

next year. Not sure if that is good or bad.

For me it means I won’t have an easy drive to Presbyterian to see competitive games.

Furman and Wofford are just a little further away, but I have never seen success at either.

Mercer in Macon is about the same distance, and since next year will be their first team in over 60 years, we might be competitive for a while. But alas, there is nothing like a game in Lexington!

Jim Fleming: I’m living in Corpus Christi (Padre Island), but this weekend I’ll be back in Virginia Beach. I’m planning to see John Warwick (Virginia Beach, VA) while there.

There is a fairly active VMI chapter here in Corpus plus I’ve been talking with Di Johnson (Humble, TX). We hooked up a couple of months ago and made some tentative plans to call on another roommate, Chuck Avery (Midland, TX). I’ve just been fishing and sailing. Boats sit at dock behind the house.

Bill Bouck (Deerfield Beach, FL): We are doing fine here in south Florida. Love the weather. Bill Cobb (Pompano Beach, FL) and I fish and golf almost every week when both of us are in town. We are both slotted in for the reunion, should be fun.

Bill Millan (Arlington, VA): I have taken to publishing fiction on Amazon Kindle.

I think some might be interested (and the prices are very cheap, $2.99 for the novel and 99 cents each for the other items). There is a full-length novel set in the Vietnam War entitled Victory (fiction, but parts based on my own time there), three short stories set in ’Nam, one short story set in England in 1941

and a collection of poetry called Virginia Poems. They can find it all very simply by going to Amazon and searching under William Millan.

Wayne Spruell (Ashburn, VA): Just noticed that we (Spruell and Hickey) both got provisional appointments for our respective grandchildren in the class of 2035. Lan and I are having lunch with Pete and Sarah Goldman (Alexandria, VA) next week. We are enjoying our grandson, Jett, who was born last October and are looking forward to daughter Stacy’s wedding this October.

Joe Petitta (Safety Harbor, FL): I’m still doing work as a litigation consultant but I’ve limited my territory to Florida as travelling is such a pain these days. Paul and Peggy Simmons (Courtland, VA) came through town not too long ago, and we were able to get them to stay at our house before they left.

It was great reminiscing and catching up with Paul and Peggy – lots of laughs to reminisce about! They will be picking Diane and me up at the Charlottesville airport in September for the reunion – really looking forward to it as always. Diane and I were fortunate; actually, she won a sales trip from ING Financial Services, and traveled to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, in June. What a great place on the Baja peninsula – far away from the bandidos and cartels.

Clay Thompson (Salisbury, MD): As many have said, “another birthday is better than the alternative!” Only news is that Donna and I were supposed to go on a River Cruise April 17 and instead I had hip replacement VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1968: Terry Emerson onboard a train to London on June 2, 2013. Emerson works in the United Kingdom as a school principal at RAF Alconbury.

surgery April 16. She got to stay at home being my nurse for a week; she did not think it a fair trade!

Billy Seargeant (Fredericksburg, VA): I am still working at the Supreme Court of Virginia as the clerk of the works. The clerk of the works is a representative of the state who inspects all work, reviews change order requests/pay apps and documents and work by contractors to ensure full compliance with construction docs. Family is fine, but let me tell you about my newest granddaughter, Elizabeth Page Lindenmayer, who is 9 months old and has a smile that will melt your heart.

Hal Switzer (Vienna, VA): Sandy and I took a trip in June to Israel with a church group from Blanco, TX, intending to go on from there to hike in England with Joe and Donna LeVine (Roanoke Rapids, NC), along with Bill Millan. But the last day in Israel, I broke my ankle falling off a bicycle on the beach at Tel Aviv. That precluded all but coming home for surgery in the U.S. They sent us many great pictures of the hike in the Cotswolds, though. In the meantime, we had sold our house in Maryland and moved out!

So, no home to go to and recuperate from this little ordeal. We’re currently holed up at our daughter’s house in Oakton, VA, waiting for the cast to come off, a walking cast to be put on and starting PT for it. That sort of ended our whole summer of planned travel, but we’re still planning to move out to Blanco in the Fall. We will build a new house there 2013-Issue 4

… and it is in reasonably close proximity to several BRs, too, as an added benefit.

Jim Polley (Stafford, VA): Jessica and I seem to continue to do well both physically and mentally. I still work full (actually over) time on the trials at GTMO. Have made four trips so far this year and anticipate at least five more this fall. We’ve done some travelling, mostly localized, but interesting and a nice break from routine.

Howard Donald (Richmond, VA): I wish I could report something exciting such as running off with a beautiful 30-year-old old blonde, but in truth, I am living a quiet, mundane retired life. Dick Wise (Richmond, VA) and I do try to play a round of golf, if you could call it that, every week or so.

Every now and then, we are joined by Stuart Cottrell ’70. Sally and I have five grandchildren, all located in Richmond. As you can imagine, they keep us busy. I am planning on going to the coaches’ outing on July 23 in Winston-Salem and will be staying with John and Susan Royster (Advance, NC).

Ken Pennington (Amelia Island, FL): We love Amelia Island but are considering a move to St. Pete Beach next year. My grandson, Luke Dewyea, made All Area in soccer as a sophomore at Greenbrier High School in Augusta, GA. Barb and our youngest daughter just returned from a Tauck Tour of the Pacific NW. I’m still doing some parttime consulting and exercising as much as possible to limit the MS symptoms. I just purchased a TerraTrike, so I can ride further on the new bike trails on the island.

George Sebren (Niceville, FL): Kay and

I are on a Viking river cruise in S. France.

Great weather, food, and, of course, wine.

Today in Arles – old Roman city. Amazing what they could build 2,000 years ago without a VMI CE degree! Like Dick Wise, I’ve been working on my golf game. Marvin Thews (Roanoke, VA) gave me some good tips at the Golfathon. Looks like I’ll miss the reunion as I have been invited to go for a dove hunt in Argentina.

Bill Carter (Raleigh, NC): The Carter family is healthy and growing! Our daughter, Kate, married John Baker last October. They are both lawyers and are living in Norfolk.

John is with Frame and Figorella and Kate is the director of government affairs for the Retail Alliance. Our son, Scott Openshaw, and his wife, Jill, moved back to D.C. last year. He is the director of communication for the American Chemical Association.

Our son, George Openshaw, and his family, Juli, John (6) and Wells (4), are in Raleigh.

George is a financial advisor with Morgan Stanley.

Ron Stultz (Fairfax, VA): Now have three grandsons with newest, Elliot Cook, in Chesapeake, VA. Apparently, parents not all that excited about their sons going to VMI. Actually, I’m looking for one to go to Harvard Medical School and eventually clone me. Facebook has reconnected me with some of my Brother Rats and it’s always good to read their posts. I’m retired but physically work every day and help others all I can via repairs.

Jim Henry (Williamsburg, VA): Our son, Jon, married Anne Wiltshire, a W&L grad, in

Class of 1968: From left, Gen. Krita Kritakara, Gee Kritakara and Creigh Kelley in Thailand, July 2013.

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CLASS NOTES UVa and then duty in the Army. Rawls Richmond on July 20. It is good to have Williams reported he was in Korea in W&L now represented in the family. All 1974–75 (as were TC Jones, Mike Delthree of our kids have married well, live in different zip codes and are employed! aney and Rawls). LR also remembered Dick and Letty Wood (Richmond, VA), Deaton was president of the VMI Honor Jack and Leah Ferguson (Round Hill, Court, our valedictory speaker and a VA) and Chandler and Robbie Williams leader in all he did. In talking with the (Midlothian, VA) all were able to attend family, I discovered Deaton died of canand we got a nice group picture. Bryan cer that started as an ocular melanoma and Mary Ann Barton (Oakton, VA) over two and a half years ago. He had were traveling, so we missed them. All checkups every three months but found is well here in Williamsburg, and I hope at the last one that the cancer had moved that the reunion will give us the opportuto his liver. He had little time after that but did not suffer long. nity to coerce a few BRs to visit us here.

When I got the news, I notified sevI am playing a fair amount of golf and volunteering for a number of organizaeral of the biology BRs and got sevClass of 1968: From left, Paul and Lydia tions. My efforts range from gardening eral responses and remembrances. Scott Quillen with Dawn and Bill Cloyd at the Chatsessions with K through second graders tanooga Choo Choo after dinner.

Rhodes talked with Deaton’s West Point to coaching M.B.A. students at W&M. grad son in Hickory, NC, and passed on who is also a lawyer, and a daughter, SalRich Andrassy (Houston, TX): Had a condolences from the class. Later, Ward new knee in late May. Was playing golf and lie, 24, living in my garage apartment and Carr sent word he had “helped” Deaton operating within two and a half weeks after headed to med school. The way things are with his valedictory address. Appears Ward surgery. Family reunion in Southampton looking, I will be in the education business came in to study for finals and found Deafor my mom’s 90th birthday in July. Still for a few more years. Terry Bowers is the ton working on the address. Ward listened operating every day. When I am not work- local VMI guy around town, and every time to the speech a couple of times and gave ing, I am playing golf or hanging with my something comes up he is there. some pointers. Ward even remembered the Howard Chapman (Mount Pleasant, SC): end of the address very well: from William six grandkids. Still in Houston, TX, and at Just finished working on the USGA Women`s Wordsworth’s The Prelude. “Bliss it was in UT Medical School.

Jack Long (Augusta, GA): I noticed from Amateur Open Golf tournament here in that dawn to be alive, but to be young was the latest Alumni Review that Ben Hedrick Charleston. It was grueling, but five days very heaven.” Amen.

Robert Deaton Smith Jr., age 65 (four days (Bethlehem, PA) has been going to the Na- of working with the Golf Channel was fun. tional Rifle Matches at Camp Perry for the On July 2, the plaque naming the visitor`s before his next birthday), of Knoxville, TN, small bore rifle. I have for the last few years, center bus shed after me was placed on the passed away on June 20, 2013. He was born except this year, shot in the High Power Rifle building by Mayor Riley and Charleston in Norton, VA, and graduated from both the Matches at Camp Perry. I still shoot competi- City Council. It was quite an honor because Virginia Military Institute and the School of tive high power rifle, both service rifle and they frown on that type of thing for people Medicine at the University of Virginia. He long range, but as my eyesight is not as good still living. It was a fun day and two of my practiced emergency medicine while serving as it was 40 years ago, I am not sure how children and one grandchild were on hand in the U.S. Army, at Norton Community Hospital, Baptist Hospital and Fort Sanders long I will continue to compete. As far as my as well as lots of friends.

Regional Medical Center. Deaton was an life, after completing law school at UGA, avid sportsman, reader and world traveler. getting the service commitment behind me, Walter Judd He is survived by his wife, Chong Smith; I have been practicing law in the Augusta, children, Joyce Lee Smith and Robert DeaGA, area, primarily trying cases. I am not a “litigator,” but a “trialagator.” At 67, I seem ton Smith III; and his sister, Belinda McCall. to work longer and harder than I did 20 years Mike Santoro in late May: “My retirement ago. My wife of 42 years, Benita (Randolph from MeadWestvaco was more of a financial Greetings, Brother Rats and friends of the decision than an ‘I’m ready to stop working’ Macon’71), has published two books, Come illustrious VMI class of 1969. Summer is decision. My golf game isn’t good enough to to the Table, which has already sold over here and the humidity is up. “Been a wet concentrate on that as a retirement activity.

100,000 copies, and Share the Bounty, both one,” say the experts.

Lots of news, so let’s Being back in the Richmond area has been published by the oldest Christian book get started. publishing company in the nation, Thomas great from a family situation. Close to kids Sad news. BR Robert Deaton Smith Jr. and grandkids. Also great from a ‘reconnecNelson out of Nashville. Benita recently decided to obtain a master’s in Christian died June 20 in Knoxville, TN. Deaton was tion to VMI and to Brother Rats’perspective. studies from Duke and is now pursuing a an emergency room doctor and an Army I am looking for some volunteer situations Doctor of Divinity at Duke. We have two veteran. Ranked first among biology majors to better utilize my time. I was on the board children, Jack, 31, a Georgia Tech graduate in 1969, Deaton went on to med school at of the local Red Cross chapter and active in

’69

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES my church when we lived in MA and am having to find new opportunities now that we are in Richmond. Thanks to Charlie Bryan and others, I am finally tapping into those opportunities in Richmond. We are settling in in the Richmond area. We now have two grandchildren, Jason and Nora. Both have provisional appointments, class of 2032 and 2034, respectively. Not sure how my daughter and son-in-law are reacting to that yet. Just got back from a vacation to the West Coast. Spent time in Tacoma, WA, and in San Francisco. Did the typical tourist stuff in SF. Took in a ballgame. Saw the Giants win. (I was in fact a Giants fan back in my youth before they left town and I became a Mets fan – a burden I still bear today). I ended up taking a lot of pictures of bridges on this trip: the Tacoma Narrows Bridge, the Bay Bridge and the Golden Gate Bridge. Guess that was my civil engineering roots coming out. Here in Richmond, I get together periodically for lunch with Charlie Bryan and Spunky Butler (Spunky and I were fifth stoop mates from those first days at VMI). We usually eat at a place called the Dairy Bar. Going to the Dairy Bar with Charlie is like going to ‘Cheers’ with Norm. He knows everyone and everyone knows him.

At the very soggy Keydet Club Leadership Outing in early June, only a few early starters played golf. With nearly four inches of rain Wednesday morning, the golf course was very wet that night. KC staffers called off the team golf before noon on Thursday but told people to come anyway for the dinner and good times. Having said all above, after learning my co-conspirator Tom Morris did not feel like traveling, I got in the car and went to Lexington anyway. I arrived at the course in humid but dry conditions Friday morning and got clearance to play the course.

I elected to play fast and was pleased to get in a round without getting wet. Others followed me out later and all saw no rain. Tropical storm or not, the avid golfers made the best of a bad situation, and Lexington got lucky in the weather department. John Sebrell, Jim and Beth Long, Ron and Betsy Wall and Bunny Paulette joined me for a superb seafood supper at Moody Hall that evening and a terrific time catching up with KC members and featured coaches and players.

Had a few minutes on June 19 and hit the Facebook site. There were many messages and pictures of “our” guys so soon after 2013-Issue 4

Father’s Day. Cammy Bryan has had fun keeping us current on her and Charlie’s trip to England this past June. On the 14th they celebrated their 44th anniversary in London and the next day saw the royal family at Buckingham Palace. I think the Bryans were outside looking in but who knows. Charlie seems to know everyone so they might have been part of the official party … Their trip also included a week in Wales, the homeland for many of us.

Tom Ruffin is on Facebook and often posts messages. Tom and Bonnie recently moved to the “country” in Tennessee and on many occasions, Tom has shared his changes in environment and lifestyle. His tales of the “Grundy County trailer trash dog” were priceless! Chris Brothers left his opinions on several issues as well and frequently leaves a picture and short article. He even shared notes on work (in Emergency rooms!) with Bob Slay, author, screenwriter and ER doc. Chris is ready to add to the “Untold Stories of the ER” literature …

Soon after Father’s Day in mid-June, someone posted a great photo of Biker Bob Ladd. He was lamenting his sale of the Shenandoah Harley-Davidson business and others agreed. Bob kept the place hopping with summer concerts and social functions.

Phil Rightler was tagged dancing with several beautiful ladies the same weekend.

Some guys have all the fun!

Buddy Mawyer also had his picture on Facebook with wife, daughter and son.

Looked like he was recovering from shoulder surgery. Quick question yielded the answer: “Had rotator cuff surgery on my right shoulder two weeks ago. Doing well so far.”

So, we all know now that joints wear out and have to be fixed by replacement or surgery.

I wish I could say all the travel he has been doing has improved Brant Collins’ appearance but alas he has not changed much.

The background in all the pictures posted of him does change and looks interesting. One photo showed an outdoor combo playing jazz on M Street in Georgetown. Brant said he took a break “before finishing the C&O bike ride.” An earlier photo shows the view of the bridges and tunnel from a B&B at Harper’s Ferry. That ride had to be scenic if it followed the river down to D.C. past the Great Falls area.

Hugh Hopkins, on the other hand, looked great standing with his daughter at her

wedding. You can dress some guys up. Gary Mackey was shown caring for a pup at his Eastern Shore home on Facebook. Cute dog.

He also started sharing pictures of his daughter, Hunter, working in Kenya, Africa, on a mission journey. Then came the pictures of the Fourth of July parade in Accomac, VA, on the Eastern Shore. Gary got to see a parade about the size of Yorktown’s, but he did not get to yell at state Senator (and Good-to-Me) Tommy Norment ’68, as I did.

Don Hinshelwood was pictured with wife Laura and two grandkids. John Baker was shown dancing with his daughter, Libby, at her wedding. These Father’s Day pics are great!

Mike McCrary keeps posting great Hawaiian music artists with samples of their music. Ken Houston apparently just started adding friends (mostly BRs) to his Facebook site. Fred “Jade” Ford posted a short note from his home in San Francisco.

Rebel Good was filmed high above Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, in the Eureka Tower Sky Deck. When asked what he was doing in Australia, he replied that he mixed a vacation and a visit with his brother there.

He also said he was officiating many tennis tournaments – amateur and professional, including the U.S. Open. Rebel said he is now the de facto rules guru for players around the world and writes a column for Tennis magazine. Busy man.

Lucky David Bush never has to post anything. His wife, Gail, ensures the family pictures are shared for all to see. There are some precious grandchildren to see. Denny Clark announced that his daughter-in-law, Amy, had completed her Ph.D. in English and had secured a job teaching at Tulane University. Congratulations to Amy, proud father-in-law Denny and husband Gavin.

I had so much fun the first time, so I visited again a week later. John and Carol Edenfield were the first to show up on the page this time. There was a photo of the high school graduation for a granddaughter Amber.

Picture showed John with wife, daughter Brenda and granddaughter. “Mr Grumpy” caught a lot of flak for his smile.

Jump to June 27 and I got to see a message and picture of Bob Slay’s USMC pilot father climbing into his “Phantom” jet during or soon after WWII times. Would have to check delivery times to see if this was our F4 Phantom (still in action in RVN and 85

CLASS NOTES afterwards) or some other variant. He also added in July, “All is well with our family.

My son’s company, 24 Hour Home Care, was picked as one of Forbes magazine’s top 50 new companies in the U.S.A. My daughter is a clothes designer with a startup company and loving the work. My wife, Gayne, is a practicing cardiac anesthesiologist still working 60 hours a week; we are approaching 40 years of marriage. I am still chief of the ER at the Marina Del Rey Hospital. I work full time in the ER but still find time to write (working on another book), do radio and TV interviews, and just finished shooting another new “Untold Stories of the ER” to be released in January. Any Brother Rats or their families who have not gotten the word on how to stay alive, happy, healthy and functional, please visit the website: battlebuddydiet.com.”

Skip Steiner was there with carpenter garb working on home building with his DreamBuilders program in something called the St. Barnard Project in West Virginia. I will bet it was associated with his Trinity Episcopal Church ministry.

Then suddenly there was Roger Call with a little one (his great-niece). Other photos showed a man interested in dirt bikes and horses. Some showed Rog on a transAmerica motorcycle ride. Great fun!

Amo Judd, earthbound tour guide in this image, was seen in a photo of the Tremont Trek, a tour of historic neighborhoods in Cleveland. Amo looked pretty official with his badges and USMC ball cap (complete with golden laurels on the brim).

What a treat awaited me on July 1: Five BRs looking very pleased with themselves for surviving another James River canoe trip were in a photo posted by Brant Collins. Actually, four looked fine and the fifth needed a little lift. Jim Baker, Glenn White, Spunky Butler and John Robins looked fine.

Newcomer Brant might have had a hard trip, it appeared.

I checked in on the 2nd to see Pat and Tricia Branch looking very spiffy. The occasion was graduation of daughter Margaret from the University of Virginia. Last kid out of college! Yeah! Recently I noted that Pam Churn, wife of our BR Cal, started sharing on Facebook. It was not too much later that a picture of Cal showed up. Several family photos appeared soon after the Fourth of July celebrations.

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John Robins got in the act in late July with photos after the annual James River canoe trip and with his new lady friend, Cindy, after a weekend at the Outer Banks. And then in early August, who should appear but BR Larry “Snuffy” Smith of Boerne, TX. The hair is still somewhat red, Also in late July John Sebrell’s daughter, Trez, posted pictures of John with his granddaughter and another of John’s son, Tom (and new daughter-in-law, Agda), soon after his wedding in Poland. Doctor of History Tom Sebrell ’01 is living and working in London. In early August, John and Sallie hosted a reception for the new couple and invited many BRs who know Tom. Among the raucous bunch were Charlie and Cammy Bryan, Tom and Nancy Catlett, Peyton and Gail Brown, Tommy Thompson, TO and Arlene Palmer, Pat and Tricia Branch, Knox and Shirley Hubard, Bob and Lush Heely, Bill “Bunny” and Carolyn Paulette, Tom and Elizabeth Jones, and my wife, Beverly, and me. We were quick to also claim Waite Rawls ’70, and youngsters Dr. Zeke Ellington ’71, Mike Strickler ’71 and Donnie Ross ’74 of Lexington.

When I sent out a “summer update” in late July, I got a picture from Jamie Totten of beautiful people on the back of a yacht in the Adriatic Sea. It was a beautiful scene with the calm water and island village behind. Jamie said he was “exploring.”

Many BRs sent in words in late July about summer activities and recalled “Deaton” events from long ago ... Marty Parks was heading back to Philmont Scout Ranch for an 80-mile trek in 11 days this August. He, like many of us, went earlier as a young scout seeking lots of merit badges. He also recalled a summer trip to Indiantown Gap Military Reservation with Deaton and Bill Bailey. They rode together to the ROTC summer camp a long time ago. Tom Hickman recalled his recruitment into the VMI Glee Club: “When we were Rats Deaton and Jamie Totten, two of the worst voices in ’69, came to my room and asked me to join the Glee Club. Said they needed my gruff old voice. They succeeded in enlisting me because they promised visits or escapes to sing at girls’ schools. Of course, that was wonderful!” Others checking in with comments and remembrances included Bob Flint, Jay Hoenig, Paul Curs, Chris Brothers, Don Mercer, Bunny Paulette, Mike Harper, Jim

Hitchcock, Jim Long and Mike Santoro.

Mike Hanna and Tom Jones both decided to participate in this year’s Jonathan Daniels ’61 pilgrimage in Hayneville, AL, on August 10. Later, Bob Heely announced he and Lush too would join the activities. Dr. Jones is doing a fine job of recruiting VMI men to be there at the annual event to honor a man who gave his life for another person in perilous times in our nation’s history. Mike Santoro passed encouragement in his note: “I wanted to pass on my best wishes to Tom Jones, Bob Heely and Mike Hanna when they attend the Jonathan Daniels pilgrimage. I’ll be thinking about you. Thanks for representing our class and our school at this worthwhile event. I think about Jonathan Daniels often. He came to VMI from someplace ‘up North’and probably didn’t have any idea what he was getting into on his first day there. I can certainly relate to that. He died in August of 1965, just before we matriculated at the Institute. I don’t remember hearing a lot (if anything) about him during our days at VMI, but he is rightly admired as one of VMI’s most significant alumni now. Jonathan is a saint of the Episcopal Church. I like to remind the folks at the various churches I have attended lately that a VMI graduate is one of their saints.”

(See article by Bob Heely about this year’s Jonathan Daniels commemoration in the Association News section of this Review.)

Bill Ellerman sent this newsy update: “As for me, still working as a consultant to the federal government, currently on the Next Generation High Speed Locomotives for passenger service, initially from Chicago to St. Louis and down the West Coast from Seattle to San Diego. Main hobbies are a soccer fan, especially the U.S.A. National Team (saw U.S.A. vs. Germany in D.C. recently) and ballroom dancing with my wife of nearly 40 years, Donna. Good at Waltz, Foxtrot, Rumba and Tango. Considered one of the best at our dance studio at West Coast Swing.”

Keep the messages flowing, BRs. And keep giving to the various VMI alumni and athletic organizations. When you see the football team this year, note the number on Moe’s jersey. We earned the right for him to wear ’69! Reunion is only a year away Sept. 18–21, 2014. Plan on it!

In the Spirit, Walt.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES baseball game. Next stop, Charleston, WV, and then The Greenbrier before the grand finale in Lexington. They arrived on Post just in time to greet the incoming cadre and then dutifully checked out all of the class of 1970 bricks outside of Jackson Arch. While in Lexington, they saw Bob Spore, whose Great news! Global warming is a hoax! shaved head, George confesses, was indelHow else do you explain having to dig around for a jacket while sitting in the man ibly burned into his brain during our Rat cave on a sunny July afternoon on the Outer year cadre encounters, as George always Banks? Or sleeping with the windows stood right behind Bob. Probably more open on August nights in northern Virinformation than you really wanted to know, but there it is nonetheless. ginia? Of course, short-term weather Also visiting VMI on their return trip events are not necessarily indicators of from Nashville were Chad and Caryn long-term climate trends, so it may very Lash. They checked out the Hall of well be that someday we will be trolling Valor display for Caryn’s dad, MG for marlin in what is now the Potomac Robert Wagner ’57, USA (Ret). While River. Who knows? in Nashville, they visited Gruhn Guitars Anyway, enjoying the incredible late where none other than Scott Kinsey used July weather on the Outer Banks with us to work and where he is memorialized were John and the just-retired June Baiin a video on the Gruhn website. For the ley, Gray and Nancy Chandler, Jim and benefit of the uninitiated, Gruhn Guitars Judy Mawyer and Charlie and Margaret is reportedly the most famous purveyor Walker, a.k.a. the Gracious Hosts. Joinof vintage instruments in the world. ing us at various stages during the week Chad was surprised when, after mentionwere the Bailey boys (Wes, Patrick and “Little” John), the Mawyer clan (Taylor ing that he and Scott were college class’01 and Laura, with grandchildren Jane mates, no one hit him, not even once! and Ryan, Todd and fiancée Meredith, Other highlights of the trip included the and Peyton) and Waite Walker. This Grand Ole Opry, the Country Music Hall was the least eventful such trip in recent of Fame and the Jack Daniels distillery. memory, as no one fell off a bike, lost Ahhh. A little bluegrass. A little sour their $400 sunglasses in the surf, crash mash. What’s not to like? landed an ocean kayak or backed their In May, Bob Costigan attended the vehicle into a concrete post. One could Class of 1970: From left, Gray Chandler, Memorial Day events at the National chalk this up to good luck. Then again, Taylor Mawyer ’01 with son Ryan, John Bai- Museum of the Pacific War in Frederley, Charlie Walker, Warren Grasty and Jim it’s more likely an indication that we are Mawyer with the class of ’70 flag on a Corolla, icksburg, TX, about 40 miles north of become increasingly inert.

San Antonio in the Hill Country where North Carolina, beach.

Not having their fill of driving all the he and Judy live. He sent in a picture of way from Jacksonville, FL, to Corolla, the recently dedicated plaque to the VMI NC, after the Outer Banks week, Stix and rick and Jennifer in person. Maybe I’m too men who served in the World War II and Nancy drove all over the mid-Atlantic region sensitive to these things, but I sense another reports that there was not a dry eye at this visiting relatives and Brother Rats. During mooch-a-thon in the making. very moving event. Bob certifies that he was Stix’s stay with his cousin, Randolph WilDuring their first big post-retirement appropriately attired in his class of ’70 golf liams ’66, at Wintergreen, Jim Mawyer and road trip, George Ritko called in from shirt and baseball cap. So far he has fought I joined them for 27 holes of golf. Earlier Charleston, WV, as he and Lisa were back the urge to retire and continues working that day, on Jimi’s way to Wintergreen, he heading to Lexington toward the end of for an engineering company. Thanks for the stopped off in Charlottesville for a world- a 17-day excursion through the Midwest. picture and the update, Bob. Also in May, I joined up with John Bailey, renowned Hardy’s ham-and-egg biscuit, The first stops were in Knoxville and whereupon he ran into the long lost Mike Nashville, where they did the Opry thing, his brother Carl, Jim Mawyer and Mike Iwanik, who, in my humble opinion, had whereupon they headed north to Sister Bay, Snead to float fish the scenic Tye River, the best picture in the 1970 Bomb. Go check WI. From there, they spent a few days in which runs through Lovingston, VA, beit out. Last, but not least, on the Chandlers’ Chicago, where they celebrated grandson tween Charlottesville and Lynchburg. As it mooch-a-thon were A.C. and Beth Arnn in Tad’s third birthday, took a carriage ride turns out, both Jimi and Mike have familial Blythewood, SC, who had just returned from down Michigan Avenue and experienced links to this area, which makes the river a a three-week vacation in Europe visiting an A-Rod sighting at a White Sox/Yankees Tye that binds. Amazingly, no one flipped

’70

2013-Issue 4

Warren Grasty

their newly engaged son, Patrick. Patrick and fiancée Jennifer Schwartz led them on tours of Aviano, Rome, Venice and Sacile. They also spent a day traipsing around Tuscany and wrapped up the trip at the Monte Carlo Grand Prix race. A.C. said the highlight of the trip was watching Patrick fly his F-16 and lead his 4-ship in maneuvers near Aviano AFB. Daughter Sarah and hubby Michael will be traveling to Italy to congratulate Pat-

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CLASS NOTES their canoe, although I did find myself going through the last series of rapids backwards.

The fear was almost as palpable as that which used to arise when standing alone at the blackboard in Rat chemistry.

Later in the month, Jim and Judy Mawyer visited Judy’s sister and her husband Ed Morris ’66 in Nags Head, NC. One rainy day they ate lunch at Pig Man’s BBQ at milepost 9.5, which is owned by Richard Bruce ’01 and T.O. Palmer Jr. ’01, who, drum roll please, is the son of T.O. Palmer ’69. Jimi reports that one of the menu highlights is a “TunaQ.” As you may remember from the last edition of class notes, Ed is seriously into sporting clay competition and often shoots with Bill Chiswell. If you don’t remember, you’re just not paying attention.

The Keydet Club Leadership Outing in early June brought out many of the usual suspects, including Steve Craddock, John and Carole Flemming, Bill Gearhart and brother Jim ’71, and Reed Heddleston. The golf event was rained out, but luckily I was able to get into the tennis group. Among the coaches playing tennis was men’s soccer coach, Richie Rose. Noticing his English accent, I asked where he lived in England.

It turns out that he is from the small town in the far northeast corner of England where our son’s wife, Ruth, grew up. He was a few years ahead of her at the local high school.

Also, the home he grew up in is across the road from Guisboro Hall, a restored manor home that now serves as a hotel and wedding reception venue. It is where Ruth and Jeffrey held their reception four years ago and where we stayed for the wedding. Weird.

Although retired, John Flemming teaches a few courses in macro and microeconomics at the local university. He was also recently elected president of the Chesapeake Gideons Camp, which is 106 members strong.

If you see a Bible in a nightstand in a hotel room, hospital room, a doctor’s office, etc., a Gideon put it there. He connects occasionally with “Nature Boy” Mike Hannum through Facebook and suggests that, with all of the hiking Mike and Beth do, he would make a good secretary of the interior when he grows up. Warren Wagner called John recently from Gettysburg, PA, where he and Kim now reside, with a report on the 150th Anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg over the July Fourth holiday. Gray and Nancy Chandler also made it up for this event with 88

Class of 1970: From left, Lew and Judy Reynolds, Bill and Paula O’Connor, Ralph and Marsha Costen, and Lee and Connie Moon at sunrise on Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina.

son Chris and his wife, Tiffany, along with a few friends from Florida. By all accounts, the re-enactment of the battle was quite impressive. Unfortunately, the South still lost.

In mid-June, Stix Chandler flew to northern Virginia for another John Bailey-planned float trip, this one on the Nile, which some of you may know as the Maury River. The evening before this escapade, I joined them at the Barren Ridge Winery near Waynesboro for a dinner buffet and to hear Carl’s band play. Note: the phrase “hearing a band play” is a bit redundant, since hearing a band implies that they are playing. Anyway, it was quite the event, with great food, wine, music and a panoramic view of the Blue Ridge Mountains at sunset on the longest day of the year.

Ralph and Marsha Costen’s Ocean Isle beach home, also known as Party City, was the site of a mini-reunion in August featuring Lee and Connie Moon, Bill and Paula O’Connor and Lew and Judy Reynolds. Lee continues to develop the athletic program at the University of North Florida and hopes to be able to schedule some games with VMI in the near future. Lew was recently named director of nanoengineering in the department of physics at North Carolina State University. (Note to LA’s: Nanoengineering has absolutely nothing to do with Mork and Mindy.) Bill admits that he briefly considered following in Lew’s footsteps at VMI, but he never could find a course in fisix. Nevertheless, Bill was recently promoted to executive

vice president at Essex Bank in Glen Allen, VA, where he is responsible for all commercial and industrial lending. He hopes to retire in a few more years so he can grow up and be like Ralph.

Recently retiring, but for a different reason, was Jon Vordermark. He and Sherri have moved to Taos, NM, where Jon will fill in his days with his oil paintings, completing some writings on leadership and development and doing some coaching. I am sure they will all be done with surgical precision.

Congratulations, Jon. Tom Love reports in from Central Florida that daughter Beth was married on July 27 in Winter Springs, FL, with all five grandchildren in attendance. Two weeks later, niece Julie Love, sister of Adam Love ’01, was married in Pittsburgh. My guess is that they were both lovely events.

After two and a half years in Iraq, Phil Jornlin says he is pondering a return to a less stressful environment. Rumor has it he is considering a few months in Detroit to minimize the cultural shock of returning directly to the U.S. Dick Knight proudly wrote in about his involvement in the new cadet recruiting program in the Nashville area. With four new cadets from Middle Tennessee, this is the best year so far for this program. Two of these young men will play on the Keydet football team, one as quarterback. Dick also related that he is on the board of directors of The English-Speaking Union, an organization VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1970: J.C. Hanks in Invermere, BC, Canada.

he has been involved with since our Rat year.

As a member of their nominating committee, he put forth the name of former VMI Superintendent Josiah Bunting III ’63 for the office of chairman, and he was recently elected.

Former ESU chairmen include President Dwight Eisenhower. On the family front, he reports that older daughter, Katherine, has started running competitively in half and full marathons and is training for a triathlon at age 36. All of which has Dick and Linda pondering whether there was a mix up at the hospital 36 years ago.

Getting back to new cadets, Don and Mary Seay and Kent and Judy Schlussel attended the Greater Charlottesville Area Alumni Chapter’s sendoff for incoming Rats. The four young men all plan on majoring in engineering, while the one young woman will major in biology. Sounds to me like a high-quality group. Meanwhile, Dick and Dee Hamlet attended a similar event in Portsmouth for the 20-plus young people from the Tidewater area who are headed for VMI this fall. Also attending was Ollie Creekmore ’66 who was Dick’s CO when he returned from active duty. Dick recently finished renovating a historic brig at Quantico, which is currently being used as an annex to the Marine Corps Museum.

In a desperate bid for strokes, he says that the long stretch of weekend travel between Virginia Beach and Quantico has had a deleterious effect on his golf game. Meanwhile, Dee is starting her 40th year as a marketing teacher in Norfolk, although the jury is still out on how much more paperwork and bureaucracy she can handle. She was once again nominated for Marketing Teacher of the Year. Congratulations, Dee! Also participating in a recent alumni 2013-Issue 4

chapter event was Gordon Williams, who played in the golf outing sponsored by the North Jersey and New York City/ Long Island Chapters. This was held at the famous Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, NJ, which hosted the 2005 PGA Championship and seven U.S. Opens, the first of which was in 1903. The event was put together by North Jersey Chapter President Rick Wolffe ’78, and Commandant Thomas Trumps ’79 made the after-dinner presentation.

Over the past few weeks, Dick Cheatham has come across some old pictures from our years in Barracks while sorting through his numerous piles of junk. He is scanning these and putting them on the VMI ’70 Facebook page for posterity. Assuming, of course, that they make it past the censors. Dick says that his business is so doing so well, he may be able to retire when he is 110. He also opined that one of the virtues of getting older is that some younger folks presume you’ve seen and done some really stupid stuff and they’re interested to know how things turned out.

One can only hope that he is a better photographer than he is a philosopher.

Also from the business front, Dewey George writes in that his federal contracting business is coming upon its 5th anniversary. He now has 35 employees, which includes four VMI graduates. Two of these he found through the alumni hiring

Class of 1970: Plaque honoring the VMI men who served in WWII at the National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg, Texas, compliments of Bob Costigan.

website, which he highly recommends.

To date, most of the business involved providing financial management and consulting services to the federal government. However, they are just starting a new program with the Veterans Administration to educate service members leaving active duty about their VA benefits. The company will be part of a nation-wide team, and they will have people at Fort Drum, NY, at Joint Base McGuire/Dix/Lakehurst, NJ, and at Hanscom AFB, MA. Definitely a worthwhile program.

While obviously bored out of his mind at home during Marky’s visit with her parents in Michigan, Ed Trinkle sent me a postcard from Marietta, GA, with a book recommendation. The book, The Republic of Suffering, relates how the staggering number of casualties during the Civil War led to changes in how our society cares for its wounded and dead veterans.

Unfortunately, he left out a critical bit of information, i.e., how many pictures it has. I only do books with lots of pictures.

Thanks anyway, Ed. Little did Ed know that, almost simultaneously, his past exploits were being extolled by John McLemore to an innocent group of students from Boys’ Home in Covington, VA. It seems that Smack and Carolyn had stopped by Boys’ Home to visit with Donnie and Bonnie Wheatley.

When it was time for lunch, they headed out to the San Juan Restaurant in scenic downtown Covington with two of Donnie’s charges in tow. In Smack’s humble words, “This gave me, a.k.a. the Great Storyteller, an opportunity to tell them the life story of Brother Rat Ed “General Excitement” Trinkle. It is a shame the General missed his biography. He will never know what an incredible life he has lived. The more the boys laughed, the taller the tale got.” Yada.

Yada. Yada. Following this fiasco, they took a tour of Boys’ Home, where Donnie and Bonnie are establishing an equestrian program on the 1,200-acre property. They have rescued wild horses from the Outer Banks and are teaching their 45 adopted sons to feed, groom, doctor and ride them.

Anyone who happens to have any surplus tack hanging around should call Donnie to see if it might be put to good use.

Finally, while trolling Facebook I uncovered a photograph of J.C. Hanks with 89

CLASS NOTES a fish during his trip to Invermere, British Columbia. It looks suspiciously like the fish that was in photo he sent in from Montana two years ago. One wonders how he gets it through security?

That’s probably about all you can take for now. I hope to see many of you at a Keydet basketball game or three this season.

In the spirit!

’71

James Kelly

These notes will cover the period between May 15, 2013 and Aug. 15, 2013.

The summer, such as it was, will be in the books when these notes come out in November and the football season will be nearly complete. I’m hoping that with six home games and two in-state games many of us will have a chance to get together during some of those weekends. The Rat Mass of 490 will matriculate later this week and the Old Corps will be returning larger than ever. At least for the first few days, the Corps will be approximately 1,740 cadets.

Application numbers have remained strong with more than 2,000 received for the third year in a row. The value of a VMI education remains very important to some of the finest young men and women across the country and from many places abroad.

I imagine that most of you know that the ’71 family recently lost another of its members. Elizabeth (Beth) Neikirk passed away on May 24, 2013. Beth was diagnosed with a brain tumor about five years ago and since that time, she and Jim devoted themselves to making every day one that had meaning. It was great to see them in attendance at our 40th Reunion out on the dance floor. Jim wrote an essay entitled “What is Time” that was read at Beth’s Celebration of Life held on June 4, 2013 (and later shared with his Brother Rats and others). On behalf of the class of 1971, I offer our sincere condolences to Jim, his son, Ken, and the relatives and friends of Beth.

Rick Littleton e-mailed Buz Booker and me a few weeks ago to let us know that he was planning a trip to Pulaski and invited us to meet him for lunch. The Fine 90

Arts Center in Pulaski is planning a major renovation on an old building and Rick’s firm placed a bid on the project … no word yet on whether he got the contract. Rick had made a few comments about fine arts in Pulaski and what that might look like, etc. He was later surprised when he found out that Buz and I are both card carrying members of the Fine Arts Center and that my youngest brother, Rick, is scheduled to have a showing of his photography at the FAC when it has its grand opening.

Life is full of strange things. Anyway, the whole plan went south. I was out of town and Buz had business in Salem (probably passed Rick on I-8I). It is a shame because it was all supposed to happen on a Tuesday when both restaurants in Pulaski are open and our horse is in town.

For many years now, I have had the understanding that ’71’s Ratline was the longest in what I have called “modern times.” That may depend on one’s point of view with regard to how “modern times” is defined … kind of like the “Old Corps” that cadets enter the same day they come back as thirds. In the last set of class notes, I had written about Mike Strickler’s retirement event held in Moody Hall back in the spring. Mike’s brother, Edmund Strickler ’62, read those notes and a reference to the Ratline. He shared with me that ’62 was not released from the Ratline until three days before finals, which were in June in those days. Now, if we consider 1962 as modern, then I must recant what I have said in the past. I also have heard a couple of other “war stories” about different classes and their Ratline. Maybe some of you that had relatives who attended VMI can share some of their memories. The one thing I am sure of is that it seemed like a very long time to me from September 7 until our breakout in March.

Things have been quiet in the news department this summer, but I have heard from a few Brother Rats about their travels and other happenings. Rick Pearman has announced his retirement and has a new e-mail address. The rest of what I have been informed of centered on various trips and vacations. John and JoAnn Ashman visited Shanghai and ran in to a gentleman wearing a VMI hat who turned out to be Jay Hoenig ’69. Apparently Jay had been in Shanghai for quite a while. Jim Gearhart

and big brother Bill (’70) spent their 39th summer together with families at Ocean Isle Beach, NC. Buddy and Carol Bryan also made a family trip to Litchfield Beach (near Myrtle), SC. Kathryn and I had the grandchildren, Lauren ’26 and Ryan ’27, here in Pulaski for a few days earlier this month and we are going to Hilton Head Island, SC, next week for vacation and in celebration of our 25th wedding anniversary. Kathryn is also officially retiring next month after nearly 40 years with the same law firm here in Pulaski.

This has been a busy summer on the campus at VMI. The Old Barracks are undergoing extensive repairs and sprucing up. Wireless Internet is being upgraded in all Barracks. Three major projects on Post are also beginning in the near future: construction of the Corps Indoor Physical Training Facility; major reconstruction of Cormack Hall; and a full modernization of Cocke Hall, which will support numerous Corps activities. Following the completion of those projects, VMI will begin focusing on improvements to the infrastructure of many of the older buildings on campus.

Last week I received the final figures for Annual Giving to VMI for the fiscal year ending June 30. I am pleased to report to you that the class of 1971 finished the year in first place (for classes in our decade) in both reporting categories … number of donors (114) and percentage of alumni donors (45.02 percent). These are among (maybe the highest) the best totals that our class has ever produced, and I salute every one of you that has helped make this possible. Alumni support is critical to sustaining the mission of VMI as well as directly impacting the lives of the men and women in the Corps. I hope that as mortgages, college expenses and other things that have challenged all of us over the years are beginning to fade away that even more of you will be able to make some type of financial commitment to VMI. Give yourselves an Old Yell and let’s continue to be the class that sets the example for others to follow.

I hope that the remainder of 2013 goes well for each of you. My next deadline for notes is Nov. 15, 2013, so please feel free to send along some news. Be safe out there.

God bless our Team and VMI. Jim VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

’72

Larry Houseworth

Greetings and salutations to all, These notes cover the lazy, hazy, crazy days of New Market Day through mid-August. Your nation’s capital basks in a crystal blue pre-fall “chill” as schools awaken and Skins-Ravens seasons are imminent. By the time you read this, we’ll be thinking Thanksgiving and assessing VMI’s return to the Southern Conference … if there’s a God in heaven, both fondly – I’ll dispense with traditional news of the Institute and, instead, pontificate for a moment on the wellintentioned, and emotionally charged, flow of point-counterpoint surrounding recent events at VMI. I won’t use this forum for personal views. Rather, I’d hope that each of us takes to heart the remarkable education we received – one that encouraged thoughtful and reasoned assessment of an issue, clear and concise formulation of an opinion, rational articulation of that opinion and the oftentimes difficult ability to clearly seek out multiple sources and hear the opinions of others. We’re not immune to temptations of the easy-answer, quick-fix sound bite mentality in today’s society, and our bond and love of VMI is evident in our often passionate defense of perceived threats to what we hold dear. I wholeheartedly encourage a free and open give and take on issues such as the ones we’ve witnessed this summer (thank you Mike Sadler, Bob Ward, Chris Jones, Stan Crane, Bob Patrick, Brad Allen, Jim Pagones, TC Hathaway, Coop Cooper, Dave Hall, Jim Barnes, Jim Van Landingham, Walt Chalkley and Jim Yolda). I trust we all remember that, though proposals may differ, the administration, faculty, tactical staff, Foundation, Alumni Association, Keydet Club and the Board of Visitors, chaired by Pete Ramsey, all seek the best for the Institute … Thank you!

I realized after the last deadline that I neglected to pass along an item of interest from April’s Leadership/Class Agents Conference. It was the first chance I had to corner Bob Heely ’69 and thank him for his unilateral command decision to “officially” release us from the Ratline – albeit 40-plus years after the Institute’s fateful decision.

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After sharing laughs all around, he waxed philosophical for a moment and reminded me that our decision to give that first class Old Yell to the class of 1969 meant more to them than we could ever imagine – particularly given the difficulties between their class and the superintendent’s office. I was genuinely touched by his level of appreciation, and I passed along ours in return. We were guided well, BRs, and thank you, Bob Heely and the class of 1969.

Now the news – Thank you to all who’ve shared news of class sons, daughters and in-laws serving in harm’s way – difficult assignments, multiple deployments to “the sandbox” and their good times. Prayers and salutes go out to the Stranskys, Wards, Worrells, Colliers, Moncures, Bensons, Chalkleys and all the others. I’ve particularly enjoyed the newsletters from Capt. Jordan Pagones ’06 “Team Gambit” in Afghanistan … and parents Jim and Joan’s happy announcement of now – Maj. Jordan’s wedding and return from his fourth, and hopefully last, combat deployment.

Rob Murray has developed and pitched a proposal for VMI to create an undergraduate program in homeland security. Rob-bo presents a very compelling and well-thought out curriculum. Contact him for the details.

JR Bell sent along the story of Doolittle’s Raiders and their reunions through the years.

If you’ve not seen it, do check it out. It’s beyond inspiring, and I challenge you to remain dry-eyed. Thanks, JR. “Cap’n Jack” Miller (Commander, USCG Aux Flotilla 17-6, Port Canaveral, FL) is a font of interesting tidbits … seems his son, David, the police officer, will be featured on “COPS.” Watch for his episodes to air between November 2013 and February 2014 (the series moves from Fox to Spike in the early fall). It will be fun to see if the production airs David’s recent character-building experience of breaking up an altercation between two thinly-clad “stars” at a local bar-top dancing venue aptly named “Cougars.” (“... whatcha gonna do when they come for you,” ladies?) Apparently, young Officer Miller saved the day with dignity and the utmost professionalism.

Ted Bremer passed along a side splitting YouTube video of very inventive Pakistani pile drivers; a portent of physical plant expansion in an age of declining budgets?

Chris Arey shared these – “I have been meaning to send in a note from a chance gettogether with Doug Nichols, back in May. I saw Doug at the Apple Blossom Festival 10K road race in Winchester on May 4. He had dropped his son-in-law off there. Doug graciously invited me to his home after the race to observe the parade through town as his lovely home is on the parade route. I accepted and enjoyed his hospitality with a host of his friends and family on a gorgeous spring afternoon. He and Barbara have quite the event on Apple Blossom Festival Day. It was great fun and a delight to attend.” He said later he had a great time with Doug, his family and friends, and it was “… a real reminder of the bond of hospitality that VMI engenders amongst us.” And, he pointed out something I completely missed. “Don’t know if you heard, but last weekend on NPR they had a very interesting piece on ‘Dixie’ and how the song has a complex relationship in our culture. At one point they turned to Lexington, VA, the home of the Virginia Military Institute. They interviewed Phil Wilkerson, and he recounted the experience of listening to ‘Dixie’ as a cadet and the decision of VMI to discontinue playing ‘Dixie’ in 1973. Phil was eloquent and poignant. It was a good reminder of the higher aim that VMI has struggled, but persisted, to attain.”

Speaking of the Wilkersons – AJ Fojt said that “Philip the Third” (Phil and Carol’s son) is now the coordinator for career assessment and professional skill development for George Washington University’s Career Center.

Walt and Debbie Chalkley’s son, Scott ’02, a military police major (no surprise there), was married to Miss Jennie McMenemy in The Villages, FL, on May 31.

Scott and Jennie are being stationed in Kaiserslautern, Germany, in July 2013. The Institute was well represented at the festivities (and I hope you caught BRs Chalkley and Hack indulging their inner Pavarotti in the last Review’s picture of the Glee Club’s performance at The Villages).

One of the greatest blessings of being your class agent is the occasional communication from those from long ago. Through Hope Hennessey, I heard from Penny Ferguson, Bob’s widow. It’s been 20 years since Bob’s passing, and she wanted to share news of their son. She wrote, “Robert T. Ferguson III has been deceased for 20 years this year 91

CLASS NOTES (1993). His son, Robert IV, has accomplished much during this time as a tribute to his father. Robert T. Ferguson IV, M.D., son of Robert T. Ferguson III, Ph.D., class of ’72 (deceased), formerly of Brownsburg, VA, has recently completed an advanced fellowship in cardiothoracic surgery at the University of Texas Southwestern in Dallas and will be on staff with Duke University at the Charles George Veterans Administration Medical Center in Asheville, NC. Robert graduated from the Miller School of Albemarle (Virginia) as valedictorian of the class of 1997. He graduated from Wake Forest University in 2001. He attended medical school in Richmond, VA, (completing work as a surgeon) at Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia, 2001–2010.” Penny, we know you’re very proud of young Robert’s accomplishments – as is his father. Thanks to Eric Hammersen, Carston Hillson and Jim Pagones for keeping me in the loop on their observations and reminiscences of VMI tuition. Eric did some interesting research based on Jim’s noting that VMI’s out-of-state tuition has risen to over $33 thousand per year. Eric says: “I actually had to get this information from the VMI registrar when I applied to use my post-9/11 GI Bill benefits, so here goes: AY 1968-69 - tuition for Virginia cadets was $275 and for out-of-state cadets was $1,000. In addition, there was $490 for board, $125 for ‘room rent’ and $330 for laundry/medical/library and laboratory/athletics/haircut, and another $165 for books/ stationary/uniform repair, plus $615 for the initial issue of uniforms. Total for ‘new cadets’ was $2,000 for in-state and $2,725 for out-of-state cadets.

AY 1969-70 - tuition for Virginia cadets stayed at $275 and for out-of-state cadets is rose to $1,300. Room and board remained the same; the laundry/medical/etc. rose to $340. Store account remained the same at $165. Total for ‘old cadets’ was $1,395 for in-state and $2,420 for out-of-state cadets.

AY 1970-71 - tuition for Virginia cadets rose to $300 and for out-of-state cadets it stayed at $1,300. Board rose to $515, but room charge remained the same. The laundry/medical/etc. rose to $390. The store account remained the same. Total for old cadets was $1,495 for in-state and $2,495 for out-of-state keydets.

AY 1971-72 - tuition for Virginia cadets 92

rose to $400 and for out-of-state cadets to $1,435. Board was $600 and room charges were $140. Laundry/medical/etc. rose to $425. The store account remained the same.

Total for ‘old cadets’ came to $1,730 for in-state and $2,765 for out-of-state cadets.

This was back in the day when cadets on an Army ROTC scholarship got a whopping $50 per month, which seemed like a lot at the time. And when we graduated and were commissioned, the first paycheck as a second lieutenant was $530.72 (before taxes). So, the cost of our first class year at VMI was about the same as five months’ salary as a second lieutenant.

By comparison, the $33,811 mentioned by Jim comes to the equivalent of a full year’s salary for today’s second lieutenant.”

Your humble scribe has very fond memories of how far that $50 dollars went in Lexington and especially how far the $530.72 went in El Paso, Texas, and Columbia, SC … very fond.

And, as the last note of Assembly fades, this arrives from our L-town/Rock-berg contingent, courtesy of George Kosovic. He, Tom Moncure, Philip Clayton and Hank Humphreys gathered for lunch at the Lexington Main Street watering hole, Macado’s, to catch up with each other and share memories, tales and belly laughs from Aug. 22, 1968 – the class of 1972’s Matriculation Day – and the ensuing week of intensive “freshman orientation.” Uniform of the day was not specified, as the picture attests. Vern Beitzel was in absentia as he prepped the Institute for another near-record influx of Rat Mass … I’m reminded of the Gods of Olympus …

That’s a wrap – Little Toot – gotta scoot – be well, keep in touch – Rah Virginia Mil! Larry

’73

Mike Kelly

Hello, Brother Rats! Summer is winding down, and we are now in the middle of August. The weather has been rainy and wet this summer, rather than hot, although this week has warmed up considerably. (And it is a good thing, I suppose, as my figs are finally getting ripe!)

Pat and I spent some time in Virginia at my parents helping them out this summer, and of course, we had our usual big Fourth of July celebration.

We actually set a record with 37 family members

present for lunch and more than 50 people out for ice cream and fireworks. With that crowd, we had a tent and tables brought in for the picnic. It was a great week. Pat and I spent a few days this month visiting with a friend who has a family place on the Chesapeake Bay in Maryland, so that was a nice “mini-vacation.”

We also had the pleasure at the end of July to have a visit from Dave Schwab. Dave was enjoying his summer school break with a visit to the states and a diving trip to the Turks and Caicos Islands. Then he came to Raleigh and stayed with us for a few days. He is thinking about retiring in a couple of years and possibly moving to the Raleigh-Chapel Hill area. So, we showed him around and Pat gave a guided tour of her alma mater, UNC. We had a nice visit, and Dave left to go to the North Carolina coast to dive on a couple wrecks off the outer banks before heading back home. He still teaches at the DOD school near Garmisch, Germany.

Before Labor Day, we’ll head to Atlanta to keep the grandkids for a few days. Then we fly out to Denver to do a tour of the western Dakotas, Nebraska, eastern Wyoming and Montana. Following that, we’ll head south to visit with Tom and Bonnie Clark for a couple of days and hopefully visit the Air Force Academy, as neither Pat nor I have been there. We are really looking forward to an extended vacation out west.

I had a note from Dave Northcraft this week telling me that his father had passed away. Gail Patrick Northcraft, 91, died peaceably on August 12. Dave said his dad served in the Marine Corps during two wars, WWII and Korea, and he will be buried at the military cemetery in Rocky Gap State Park, MD. Please keep Dave and his family in your thoughts and prayers.

Doug Huthwaite said his wife, Pat, finally retired June 21, and things are going just great.

Doug returns to Baltimore each year for some Orioles baseball and family gatherings. This year, Pat encouraged him to participate in the Dream Week program. Doug actually got to play ball in Camden Yards, and he said, “this old man got a clean line drive single to centerfield.” It was a truly priceless experience. Then they took off for a two-week cruise from Boston to Quebec City.

On the cruise, they met John Gangemi ’61 and his wife, and as it turned out they live in Wilmington, just up the road from Kure Beach where Pat and Doug are now living. Small world. Hope you all continue to enjoy retirement, and we still hope to get down there to visit with you soon!

You may recall, I mentioned in the last set of notes that Gary Shope was unable to attend the reunion because his son was having surgery. Gary sent a note saying that his son, Alex, was doing well and seemed to be recovering nicely. He was also able to start medical school in July at Penn State’s Milton S. Hershey Medical School. Glad

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES to hear the good news and to hear that you and Lynn are doing well. Gary said he enjoyed the pictures of the reunion and was sorry they missed out on the fun. We hope you’ll make it next time!

Roland Tiso has been back in touch on a regular basis now that he has returned from Afghanistan.

He said he returned home on May 19, the 40th anniversary of his commissioning. He immediately began preparations for the bodybuilding season, and in fact, this week said he won first place, for the second year in a row, in his class at the Tampa Pro/Am bodybuilding contest. That generated a lot of e-mail messages from folks! He promised to share some pictures, so stay tuned. I also had a nice note from Roland’s daughter, Catherine, who is a choreographer in Chicago. As a next step in her career, she had to plan and conduct her own show, which she called “Diverge/Connect.” Part of the planning process included raising funds to put on the show, and many of our Brother Rats chipped in and helped make that happen. Pat and I had hoped to go to the show in Chicago in August, although our schedule did not allow that to happen. Catherine told me everything was ready to go, and that she was really getting excited.

She asked me to be sure to thank everyone who helped her out. I am really pleased to hear that and trust that the show will go on without a hitch.

Roland, Judie, and other family members will be in attendance. Unfortunately, Roland said he may have to return to Afghanistan in January.

Terry Howlett sent me a message saying that he was in almost daily contact with Roland. Terry is spending his time these days volunteering for the mayor’s local veteran’s roundtable and the Civil Air Patrol. He enjoys flying and working with the CAP folks in Texas. Terry and Nina recently spent a couple of weeks in Hawaii visiting family and friends. They had a great visit with Chris McGreer, Nancy and Jessica, who were in Texas and Oklahoma working on a project.

Mark Skupien told me he was sitting on the beach in Atlantic City this month (August) and still reminiscing about the reunion and what fun he had walking PTs again. There is a picture floating around of Mark literally walking PTs on Saturday afternoon at the reunion. (Check the VMI ’73 Facebook page.) He was funny! Mark also told me that they were expecting another grandchild in February, and he has been called the “big bear” with three little cubs. I hope you prefer the beach to the PTs! Bob Poynor has been working on Air Force training documents. He is converting them from Adobe PDF files to more of a “wiki-type” database so they can be read on any e-reader, making access easier. He hopes to have that project completed by November, although he indicated his time is shorter now, since he is currently furloughed one day per week. That is probably a good thing. However, since his wife, Sandy,

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has been watching the home renovation channel and embarked on some remodeling in the home – carpet, granite countertops, windows, etc. – he wanted to know if there is a block he can use for the channel. Bob has started to think about retirement and may well hang it up in a couple of years! Good luck, Bob. I also had a message from Bill and Linda Spencer. Bill said he just finished his governmentdirected furloughs. He said thanks to everyone who sent him photos of the reunion. He is putting together an album, though he still needs some pictures of the golf outing and awards ceremony.

So, if you have some of those, please send them to him. Bill said he and Linda plan to go to Texas this summer to visit her parents and hope to hook up with Doug Payne in Corpus Christi, Jeff Minch in Austin, and Neil Carlson in Shreveport.

Rick and Rebecca Gribling missed the reunion because they were traveling, and Rick just sent me a note to say they were headed to Scotland again this month. Their daughter, Rachel, was in school at Oxford and then went to Saint Andrews University in Scotland. She now works in Edinburgh, Scotland. Rick said Rachel has just gotten engaged to a Scottish student she met at St. Andrews. Sounds like great times are coming up in merry ole’ Scotland! Have fun, Rick. We love it over there. And have a taste of the single malts for me!

Michael Smith said he was hosting a round of golf for Bill Stephens on August 9, and that he regularly sees RB and Becky Newman at the Hermitage Country Club. He also frequently sees and talks to George Tisdale. Michael said he would let us know how the golf tournament went. RB called me the other day and is interested in putting together a mini-reunion in the spring with a golf outing and get-together, so stay tuned for details.

Tom Napier told me he might be interested in playing golf or at least occupying some of his time off. In January, Bristol-Meyers Squibb, the pharmaceutical company he worked with for almost 33 years, went through reorganization.

Tom decided to take a package and go to the house. Now he is enjoying his time off and may do some consulting work in the pharmaceutical field. He and Suzi have four grandchildren, who are all in the Richmond area, and their youngest, who was born on Christmas last year, is actually staying with them some during the week. One of their granddaughters just turned seven and has completed junior golf camp. She now has the golf bug almost as bad as Tom. One of her “best days ever” was playing the Par-3 course with her granddad! When Tom saw the note about Pat and I headed out to the Badlands, it reminded him of a motorcycle trip he took with Rich Lykins, Rich’s cousin and two other VMI alumni, out to the Badlands and surrounding area in 2011 to attend a motorcycle rally. They went more than

4,200 miles on their Harleys. Sounds like a great trip, but I think Pat will make me drive a car!

Good luck with the retirement, Tom. It can be fun.

Sandy McNamara told me about a recent trip he and his wife, June, took in June. They were in Ireland, and Sandy proposed all over again to her while they were visiting McNamara Castle, which was built in 1467 by one of his ancestors, Sean McNamara. And, they got married again that month as well. That is really cool!

Tom and Bonnie Clark have been busy traveling as well. They went camping with friends and visited all of the national parks in Utah in early July. It was 112 degrees in Arches. He said Arches and Bryce were their favorites. They are definitely beautiful, although Pat and I also really liked Zion as you walked through the canyon and looked up instead of down. Great trip. They are also planning to take their daughters to Hawaii in October and stay at the Fort Derussy Military Resort on Waikiki, and hopefully link up with Russ Takata ’74 while they are there. I used to see Russ each year at the annual environmental health conferences. He works with the radiation protection group in Hawaii, but I have lost contact with him since I retired. Tom was also bragging on his new (2009) Harley Davidson Dyna Low Rider he just bought. Maybe when we see you in September you can convince Pat to let me buy one? Pat, my editor, said, “Fat chance.”

John and Ann Pinner just returned from a twoweek vacation in Peru. He said this was the best vacation they have ever had (short of his four years at VMI – I think he was kidding?) Peru is on our list, and maybe we’ll get there one day. John looks forward to the football season and hopes to link up with folks during the fall.

Mac and Melanie Kirkpatrick and their son, Clark (VMI ’15), had a biking trip out west during the summer. Clark rode his bike to Rapid City, and Mac and Melanie trailered two of their BMWs and met up at Melanie’s parents in Rapid City. The Kirpatricks then rode their bikes through Idaho, Wyoming, visited Yellowstone and then went on to Oregon where they met up with Steve Stith for some fun and relaxation. Melanie and Mac went on back to Iowa and Clark continued through California to Yosemite and the redwoods. Melanie drove with her parents back home while Mac met up with Clark, and they continued traveling on their bikes until they got back to Pennsylvania.

Clark put more than 7,000 miles on his motorcycle and visited 23 states. Sounds like a busy summer!

Congratulations are in order for Bill Boland who has been appointed to the VMI Board of Visitors. Bill is an attorney, and he and Judy still reside in the Richmond area. Bill and I were actually roommates our Rat year! We are proud of you, Bill, and know you will do a fantastic job.

While I did not specifically hear from him directly, I did have an “automatic reply” from Tuck

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CLASS NOTES Bowie to my e-mail message. His message said that he would be out of the office until August 12 due to knee replacement surgery. I hope the surgery went well and you are back on your feet!

I have a couple of “lost BRs” to report on in this issue. Phil Coulter is one of them. I heard from Phil a couple of years ago but lost touch after that.

He and Linda live in Roanoke, and even though he only completed his Rat year, he said he keeps up with the alumni in the Roanoke area. (Hope you can find R.B. Brown who was also a roommate with Bill and I our Rat year. I haven’t heard from him at all, but he lives in the Roanoke area.

Funny how things work out as he originally was from Smithfield, NC, not far from Raleigh, and now I’m here and he’s close to my home town of Pulaski, VA.) Phil said he and Linda took a trip to Europe last year where they went on a Rhine River cruise through Germany and France. Phil says he has a special bond with George Patton since the general also only spent one year at VMI; Phil paid a special tribute to General Patton as they went past Oppenheim where the army crossed over the Rhine in WWII. Great to hear from you, Phil.

Please stay in touch.

The other “lost BR” is A.J. Kendrick. A.J. was really excited after seeing all of the information from the reunion and was sorry that he and Ruth did not make it. He said they both have been retired for more than five years now, and his retirement has been like a continuous fishing and hunting expedition. Last season, A.J. said he hunted almost every day and killed the largest buck he has ever taken. He and Ruth visited New York City this summer and did a lot of the touristy things.

They live in the Hopewell, VA, area and have two sons. One son just started graduate school at the University of California-Irvine, and their youngest is on his way to Europe for about six months with his job. A.J. is still very active with the Boy Scouts in the troop where Dale Kitchen was a member and Eagle Scout. A.J. also serves as a staff person for Woodbadge, a special scout leader’s training program. The Kendricks enjoy traveling and spend a lot of time at Smith Mountain Lake. Great hearing from you, A.J. Hope you will also stay in touch.

I want to close with information about another one of our BRs who is also active in the Boy Scouts. I recently had a call from Franklin Jester ’79 who wanted to let me know about Tom Jones’ accomplishments in scouting. Boy Scout Troop 17 in Franklin, VA, recently celebrated its 100-year anniversary. Tom has been very active with the troop over the years, including being scoutmaster most of the years between 1980 and 2012. He also was instrumental in obtaining historical records that were used in conjunction with the anniversary. Tom was presented with a Distinguished Service Award and a plaque, which dedicated the new scout shack to him and the future of scouting.

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Franklin sent me a news article which appeared in the Wednesday, June 12, 2013, edition of The Tidewater News. Tom is shown in his scout uniform receiving the plaque. Tom is wearing the coveted Silver Beaver award and the prestigious Woodbadge beads. The dedication program says that Troop 17 had more than 325 members during Tom’s tenure and touched the lives of more than 1,000 young men. Quite an accomplishment! We are really proud of you BR! It will almost be Christmas when you read these notes, and Pat and I wish all of you a very happy holiday season and a Merry Christmas. And of course, I can’t close without a reminder that with the end of the year coming up you may want to get those tax deductible donations in to the Institute.

Thanks for your continued support.

We are looking forward to the holidays and New Year, and we wish you a very Happy New Year!

Be safe out there.

In the bonds, Mike

’74

Snookie Parker

Greetings, Brother Rats. Fall is rapidly approaching and football is in the air! I hope to see a number of BRs at games this year. Let’s get to the notes: Dr. Andrew Young, division chief for the Military Nutrition Division at the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine (USARIEM), was honored for his professional contributions over his 36-year career in science. Andy received the Citation Award from the American College of Sports Medicine

at ACSM’s annual conference in Indianapolis on May 28. Andy was one of six scientists who received this year’s award based on professional merit. The Citation Award is the second-highest award given out by ACSM and is granted to an individual or group who has made significant and important contributions to sports medicine and the exercise sciences. Contributions considered include research and scholarship, clinical care and administrative, and educational services in sports medicine and exercise science. Well done, Andy!

(Editor’s Note: See an article about this in the Alumni News section of this Review.)

I just heard that Linda and Dave Hickey started a 10-day vacation that got prolonged for medical reasons. Dave is at home now, on the mend and hoping to return to the office soon, at least on a part-time basis. His son, Matt, is holding down the fort at the office, but work has slowed down quite a bit. Dave’s getting a little anxious to return to action. Linda retired from the school system and has had some suitors for consulting, but she has decided to settle into retired life – at least for the moment. I understand Matt has some large horses!

He’s got one of the Budweiser Clydesdales, six Percherons (monster horses) and until a couple of months ago, a pair of Belgians (even bigger than Clydesdales). One of the Belgians died in a thunderstorm. Lightning struck a tree that one of the horses was near and the jolt was transmitted through the saturated ground killing the poor thing instantly. Matt sold the other since it was without its mate. Glad you are on the mend, Dave!

Paul Van Doren reports that on July 20, the Tidewater Area Breakfast Club met at the Egg Bistro. Present were Chip Beaman, Sam Turner, John Crawley, Frank Richardson, Paul Van Doren, Bill Pennypacker and Mark Prentice.

I understand it was a great time, although a lot

Class of 1974: Attending the class’s Tidewater Breakfast Club meeting on July 20, 2013, were, from left, Chip Beaman, Mark Prentice, Bill Pennypacker, Paul Van Doren, Frank Richardson, John Crawley and Sam Turner.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1974: At Bob Trost’s Arlington Cemetery grave site were, from left, Craig Smith, Arnie Leonard, Tom Puskas, Bill Minor, Mike Fisher, Rick Donahue, Chuck Ward, Clint Anderson, Charlie Gardner, Mike Andriani, Joe McCoskrie, Snookie Parker, Kent Wheeless and Charley Banning. Not pictured: John Valenstein and Bill McDonald. of chatter about all manner of things, once again they failed to outline a plan to save the world.

Some tidbits – John admitted he locked in on his wife when he discovered they had the same snow skiing skills. Sam and Paul reflected on the latest of a string of unexpected events concerning investments in VVUS (Vivus, Inc.). Since the two had mentioned this before and always ended with an optimistic outlook, the remainder of the table was very happy to offer all manner of derisive observations. I’m looking forward to making one of the Tidewater breakfasts soon. Keep me posted, Paul!

Charley Banning has been busy on the net trying to locate lost BRs and found a bio on Jim Wilkinson. Dr. James M. Wilkinson II is the founder and president of Bioclinical Research Solutions (BCRS), and he is highly respected for his work in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Dr. Wilkinson founded BCRS in July of 2005 after spending the majority of his career working with pharmaceutical companies and contract research organizations (CROs). For more than 30 years, Dr. Wilkinson has provided a wide range of hands-on technical and managerial expertise in the planning, implementation and reporting of clinical and bioanalytical studies.

He has established quality assurance programs, directed laboratories and overseen all aspects of Phase I clinical and bioanalytical research.

Throughout his career, Dr. Wilkinson managed hundreds of pharmaceutical research projects and has extensive experience in FDA audits. He has also participated, by invitation, as an industry representative in the FDA Reviewer Certification Training Course. His direct experience working with both large and small organizations has

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provided him a unique insight into the pressures companies face in obtaining approval or their products. Dr. Wilkinson began his career as a medicinal chemist for A.H. Robins Pharmaceutical Company. From there he moved to a small CRO specializing in bioanalytical chemistry, which evolved into a division of Pharmaco International, now PPD. Directly prior to founding BCRS, Dr. Wilkinson served as director, president and CEO of PharmaKinetics Laboratories, Inc., a full service CRO. Dr. Wilkinson earned a B.S. in chemistry from Virginia Military Institute and a Ph.D. from Duke University in synthetic organic chemistry. He is a member of the American Chemical Society, the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists and the American Association of Xenobiotics.

He currently resides in Bel Air, MD. Charley also found bio info on Randy Frazier.

Randall H. Frazier was elected a director of the company in April 1996. Randy is currently president and chief executive officer of R. Frazier, Inc., 1st Choice Financial, Inc. and XRIMZ, LLC. Together, they are a consortium of privately held companies that sell, service and finance electronic products to the home-user market and that finance aftermarket automobile accessories for the consumer market. Randy founded R. Frazier, Inc. in 1988. Randy was self-employed in various chemical and engineering businesses prior to the founding of R. Frazier, Inc. Prior to that, Randy was a senior chemist with E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company (DuPont).

How about William F Hiltz – he was a buddy of Charley Banning through scouts. He went through the first year with the class (straight A’s, maybe a B in Swimming – too much upper body

strength and couldn’t float). He quit to join the Peace Corps and that was the last anyone had seen of him. Charley found him – he’s a doctor in Washington. He finished up his schooling at Vanderbilt.

I heard Don Kilcullen was struck by a car while on his bike. The good news – the only injury was Don’s ego – a little bruised.

Rick Hissem has earned a master of science degree with a focus in structural engineering.

Congrats!

Pat Flynn, while on a salmon fishing trip to Washington State, stopped in for a visit with Walt and Karen Wilson. I know they had a grand time strolling down memory lane. Pat reports that Walt plans to retire for a second time in March. I understand Pat came home with about 50 pounds of salmon filets. Sounds like a fish story to me!

Steve Weaver is in Fairbanks, Alaska, working as a facility engineer for the state and managing remote clinics. Expect to see you at the reunion, Steve!

Yesterday, 16 Brother Rats were among a healthy crowd on hand at Arlington Cemetery to honor Col. Robert W Trost III. Attending: Charley Banning, Joe McCoskrie, Craig Smith, Mike Fisher, Mike Andriani, Clint Anderson, Rick Donahue, Charlie Gardner, Bill Minor, Chuck Ward (and wife Louise), Kent Wheeless, Arnie Leonard, Tom Puskas, John Valenstein, Bill McDonald and yours truly (Not pictured: John Valenstein and Bill McDonald). The weather was perfect. The service was conducted with appropriate dignity to honor a patriot’s service to his country. Col. Sue Gough, Bob’s wife, in a very moving moment during the service, sang their favorite song, “Danny Boy.” Carol Trost and Bob’s two daughters, Caitlin and Erin, joined Sue as they followed the caisson to the gravesite. A platoon of soldiers in dress blues, along with the band, marched in front of the caisson. A 21-gun salute, taps, flag presentation and the Army song by the band was so well done. Bob was cremated. As I was offering my sympathies to Sue, she whispered in my ear that the class coin left for Bob at his service in January was inside the urn. After the service, several of the BRs assembled at the Fort Myer Officer’s Club for lunch. With regard to honoring deceased Brother Rats, Gus Elliott, Hall Brodie and Jim Roper offer some memories of BR Bob Moore. What We Remember About Bob Moore! Gus Elliott writes: “I was lucky enough to know Bob from his days at VMI until his death. He was at my wedding; I was at his wedding. Bob and his wife, Anita, (whom he called Magic) went with my wife, Randi, and me on a fly-in, paddle-out canoe trip to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area of Canada. While in the Air Force, I would go by and see Bob whenever I was in Washington D.C. area. We would have lunch and catch up on family and old times. Recently, when Bob headed the Air Force Real Property

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CLASS NOTES Agency and was in San Antonio, I would stop by and see him in his office whenever I had Air and Air Force Exchange Service business in the area.

He was a life-long friend. Bob had a ‘never give up attitude’ and a ‘hyped up spirit.’ I watched him run many a track race at VMI, and he was usually on the winner’s stand. He was the definition of student-athlete. He was impulsive and always up for anything. When we cooked up a plan to go to Annapolis and get the Navy’s goat prior to our football game, Bob volunteered his car to transport the goat back to VMI in the backseat.

We made it to the farm that housed the goat but we never got it. (Bad plan, poorly executed). At my wedding, when he saw the reception party house (a location in the woods we rented on the cheap), he thought it could be spruced up and proceeded to mop the entire place the night before the wedding. He wanted to take a rapids trip in Canada in our canoes standing up ‘Roman style’ until we reminded him we were alone and five days from civilization with only the canoes to get us out (that’s called operational risk management before it had a name). He was outspoken and would speak his mind; he didn’t care who was listening.

He rose in the General Service ranks in the Air Force civil engineer community. In the Pentagon, he was looked to as a civilian to deliver bad news when others were afraid of the consequences.

He was instrumental in the success of privatized housing that replaced outdated on-base housing with new housing for airmen. He was promoted to the Senior Executive Service and headed the Air Force Real Property Agency whose mission is to acquire and dispose of Air Force Controlled real property worldwide. It was the perfect job for Bob; it required wheeling and dealing and coming up with unconventional solutions to tough problems. One thing you can be certain, with Bob at the helm, the taxpayer always came out on top of those deals. The last time I saw Bob was a year ago. We hugged in the parking lot of his office in San Antonio and went our separate ways. Brother Rats, forever. Out of the blue, Jim Roper called.

He happened to be driving by Fort Riley and was thinking about Bob. He was reminded of his ’73 summer camp at Fort Riley, when Bob and others scaled the nearby mountain and painted the VMI spider in the place of the Fort Riley patch before a summer camp parade. The presiding General was a VMI grad and liked the spirit of the crazy college students. We agreed we would talk at least once every 40 years. I told him we missed him at the last reunion and he said he’d come to the next one. Hall Brodie writes: “Bob Moore was our friend, our roommate, our co-conspirator and our cheerleader. He was also ‘Jersey’ through and through, never leaving anyone in doubt about how he felt about something, but presented in a way that always left room for humorous disagreement!

We will always remember the raucous laugh and

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those pep talks he would give us during one of many VMI induced depressions – his enthusiasm for life was extraordinary and infectious – he demanded that you join in! His energy and conspiratorial nature led us into many adventures/ misadventures most notable being the Southern Seminary panty raid (successful) and the kidnapping of the Naval Academy’s goat (unsuccessful).

The Southern Sem raid ended with lots of trophies despite several encounters with Buena Vista’s version of Barney Fife and his .357 revolver.

As for the goat, luckily for us in retrospect, Col. Buck figured out what was going on and warned the Naval Academy staff who thwarted the kidnap attempt! We look back at these Bob Moore inspired events and think how stupidly crazy they were – then we smile and hear that laugh! Holding to Bob’s wishes, we plan to gather and down some beer, tell some stories, laugh, cry, cuss and discuss the great times we had with our friend Bob.” Bob Trost and Bob Moore … gone but not forgotten!

Reminder to all: Plan to attend our 40th Reunion on April 25-26, 2014. To those BRs who attended our 35th: Don’t come alone. Bring a wingman to the 40th. Reunion information will be forthcoming. In general, it will be a casual weekend. Tentative plans: Cocktails for early arrivals on Thursday evening, place TBD. Friday: registration, golf for the men, jewelry luncheon for the ladies and a BBQ for the evening. Saturday: memorial service, class photo, parade and free time with casual dinner ideally at Moody Hall, if we are senior enough to reserve it. Sunday will be a farewell brunch, place TBD. It’s going to be a good one – be there!

Class agent plea! Don’t be caught without your class coin. If you need one, send $10 (cost of coin and postage). Please forward any news regarding births, deaths, illnesses, marriages and other significant events concerning your family and/or careers. Brother Rats are interested and do care.

I know e-mail addresses have a half-life of about six months. Keep us current. Send your updated e-mail address to me, snookieparker1974@earthlink.net, Charley Banning cbanning@cox.net or Kevin Nettrour (our webmaster) nettrour@ accessus.net. Check out the website. Send me a note. Yada, Yada, Yada and Yaba Daba Dooooo!

Warm Regards, Snookie

’75

Art Nunn III

Well, another quarter has flown by. This has certainly been the coolest and wettest summer I can ever remember here in Virginia. It has however, been beautiful here. I hope everyone

has had a great summer, whether you are dealing with the mildness of the East Coast or the heat of other places.

Thank you all for your support by answering my e-mail plea for information to place in these notes. It certainly does make this task much easier when I do not have to rely on my imagination – or worse yet, my memory – to come up with a bit of prose each quarter. Let me update you on what we have heard since last time.

Bill Turpin hosted a mini-reunion of sorts in Houston in late May. Charlie Collins, Guy Conte, Rick Davison and Dan Heiken joined Bill for an afternoon and evening of good times where they talked about the rest of us behind our backs (but only in the kindest of terms, I am sure). They had a great time, and it is great that they shared it with us.

Dean Armstrong continues to call often and he sends post cards from his various stops around the globe. As a military history buff, I think Dean just hangs onto his airline pilot job because of the travel opportunities that it presents. Speaking of military history, Lenny Riedel is a professional at this stuff, and he has built a nice business of orchestrating and conducting tours of various battle locations.

Chuck Wohlrab reports that his job was extended in Abu Dhabi, and he will be there for another year. Chuck and his family are now making plans to visit the states at Christmas time to see their older kids, Philip and Kirkland.

Greg Stultz is enjoying the summer in the Cleveland area, but he is dreading the upcoming winter. He is looking forward to visiting the Institute at some time during the fall.

Rich Mines has had some interesting experiences recently. Rich was inducted into the inaugural class of Fellows of the Environmental and Water Resources Institute on May 19, 2013, at the World Environmental and Water Resources Congress in Cincinnati, Ohio. That is a tremendous honor. He and his family (Beth, Andrew and Daniel) spent six days in the Tetons and Yellowstone National Park, hiking, looking for wildlife and whitewater rafting. Of course, Rich always finds time to either run in or train for a marathon or two. That is just hard to comprehend. I don’t even like to drive 26-plus miles!

Bo and Nancy Temple are still in Springfield, VA, while Bo continues his post-retirement employment search. Bo attended a BR impromptu dinner with Guy Conte, Ronnie Norman and others in March. Everyone looked great. Bo enjoyed the annual VMI Scholarship Luncheon in April and speaking at a Potomac River Chapter VMI dinner on June 1. In really great news, Bo reports that after successful treatment at National Institutes for Health, his tumors are gone. He is scheduled to start a new clinical trial later in August at Washington Hospital Center in hopes

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES of eliminating his melanoma at the cellular level. in Virginia. The last time they saw each other was first and second great-grandchildren. Bonnie and at Raleigh’s wedding just over 21 years ago. His Oliver may have to split up for the births if they Please keep Bo in your prayers.

Speaking of Ronnie Norman (my biggest fan), birthday party was a great tribute to life. Probably occur within a couple days.

Fellow chemistry major Bernie Cobb sent a he recently reported the great news that he and 20-plus people stood up and gave testimony to his Margie are brand new grandparents again. Their accomplishments over the past 20 years. Here is note telling us that there are some things going second granddaughter, Kameron Jae Manuel, was what Sam would like to say. I put some of this is a on at work, but if he told me about them he’d born on August 1. All involved, including Ronnie, previous issue of the class notes, but it is certainly have to shoot me. I never knew that serving as class agent could be hazardous duty! Anyway, worth repeating. are doing well.

Approximately 16 years ago, Raleigh gave up Bernie and Carole did visit their daughter, Lauren, In addition to crashing various gatherings, Guy Conte reports that all is well up in the Pacific a management job at Goodyear to take a coach- in Charleston for the second birthday of their grandson. They also have a project Northwest. Guy and Mary spend the underway to renovate an older home summers (July, August and Septemin the Decatur area of Atlanta. Once ber) in Washington State to get away that is completed, they will have from the 105-plus degree Arizona accommodations for BRs who may heat, but they will head back down travel through the area. Other than to Scottsdale on October 1 and stay that, it’s been nose to the grindstone, there thru June. Pretty enjoyable and but they are planning on attending the best of both worlds as the golf the VMI/Citadel game in November and weather is super up in Seattle since they have family in the area. during the summer. Then in the fall, Continuing with the grandchild winter and spring he says that you theme of these notes, Dan and Vickie just can’t beat Arizona. All is going Darnell are expecting their seventh well with Guy’s family. His daughgrandchild and enjoying life in northter changed careers and is now in ern Virginia. They are also looking nursing school. His son, Chris (now forward to visiting VMI this fall. back from Afghanistan), is stationed at Fort Hood, Texas, assigned to a No grandchildren involved, but patriot missile battery. He seems very Robert Mills has had a pretty active pleased about his decision to become summer. After sailing the Greek isles a career Army officer. as promised and exploring Istanbul, Class of 1975: From left, Guy Conte, Bill Turpin, Rick Tom Mason is looking forward he is home for a bit. A trial got postDavison, Charlie Collins and Dan Heiken gathered in to the fall, football and friends in poned, so Robert and Kimberly took Houston.

Lexington. Tom took a great trip to a quick trip to Wimbledon for tennis Charleston, SC, to see his daughter, and afternoon tea as well as a visit Marilee, now 25, and a real grownup! He is think- ing job at Chatham High School in Virginia for with his daughter who currently resides in Oxford ing hard (which is giving him a real headache) a significant cut in pay. His heart is for the youth and works for Oxfam. They saw both the changing about going back there for the Citadel game on of America, and he really wanted to make a dif- of the guard and the gay pride parade on the same November 16 (about the time these notes are ference in the neighborhood where he grew up. day! After a short trip to Turks and Caicos for published). Other than that, life goes on in the To make a long story short, the testimonies at his white beaches and cerulean waters, they returned Star City. birthday party would make everyone stand up and home just to fly out the next day to meet his son, Harry Broaddus sent a brief note from the cheer. Children from age eight and adults to age Edward Mills ’07, and to attend the Gold Cup Richmond area. He said that he did not have much 80 stood up and spoke about the impact Raleigh Soccer Semifinals in Cowboy Stadium (the only to report, but he might pop over to Lexington James has had in their life – children that needed football stadium he has ever seen with Italian during the fall if the health of his oldest daughter rides to school, students who went to college with marble floors and air conditioning). This was after allows him to get away. Let us all hope and pray his encouragement, the math tutoring he gave to stopping for a bite at a barbecue joint where you that Harry’s daughter does well. students in the county, etc. The list of his personal order your meat by the pound outside at the pit Frank Hillson is teaching English at the Univer- sacrifice was endless. His internal and external before entering the restaurant. After the U.S. beat sity of Delaware, having earned his Ph.D. not long accomplishments are pretty amazing. In a true Honduras, Mexico played Panama. Fortunately, ago. What has him most happy is that in July he tribute to the strength that these two roommates Mexico only scored once as the custom seems met his son, Christian Hillson (West Point ’09), formed, Sam said that he realized after attending to be for every Mexican fan to throw anything at Fort Hood, Texas, to celebrate his return from Raleigh’s celebration of life, it was his life that he or she may be holding as high into the air as Afghanistan after a nine-month tour. To say the was enriched. If any of you watched the movie possible! Beer, soda, popcorn, nachos, hats, small “Mr. Holland’s Opus,” it was that type of celebra- children … doesn’t matter. Of course, in a packed very least, Frank is glad to have his son home!

I received a very nice note from Sam Moultrie. tion. Sam has also promised not only to giving stadium this has some predictable environmental It has been a long time since Sam has posted any- an update on himself in future class notes, but he consequences. Sort of like Jell-O wrestling while thing on our class notes, but he wanted to give us also plans to attend some upcoming events with watching the world’s biggest jumbotron. (Class agent note – I did not make any of this up. It is all an update on one of our classmates, Raleigh his wife of 39 years, Robin.

Similarly to Ron Norman, Bonnie and Oliver all documented.)

James. Three months ago, Sam got an e-mail from Not a lot of news from the Ken Gerard houseRaleigh, his roommate at VMI. Raleigh told Sam Way have some news. Both daughters-in-laws are that he’d had two heart attacks and that he would expecting. Both mid-February. To quote Oliver, hold except that their younger son, Eric, earned be honored if Sam would attend his birthday party “We are so excited!” It will be Bonnie’s mom’s his master’s degree from the University of Miami.

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CLASS NOTES And the best news, besides his degree, is that he has a job as the athletic trainer at a high school in Hollywood, FL. Other than that, Ken says that he is still working and trying to keep busy at work.

A lot of that going around!

Randy Frank wrote to rub in the fact that they have been enjoying beautiful weather in the Pacific Northwest for the entire summer. Other than that, son Zach is gainfully employed in Los Angeles, working as an assistant film editor and production coordinator on a cartoon series debuting in the fall, “Adult Swim,” on TBS. Having seen the pilot of this series, Randy can say it’s disturbed enough that many VMI alumni will revel in its peculiar plot line. Younger son, Sam, is employed by the DiBruno Bros. in Philadelphia.

Randy visited him in May and got a taste of wonderful East Coast summer weather. Randy’s wife, Terry, just took the Washington State bar exam, which means she’ll hopefully add a third license to her repertoire. He said that this means that any of you arrested trying to cross the U.S.-Canada border will have legal representation conveniently located only 25 miles from the 49th parallel. I guess that is a good thing.

Tad MacGowan sent a bullet list of items for the notes. He loves living in Annapolis, though he is not pleased with the politics of the area. Tad is working for a subsidiary of NTT, a large multinational company. On the whole, it’s a positive thing, and he wants to work about four more years then move on to semi-retirement. Tad’s son (15) has him into bow hunting, his daughters – tennis, his wife – gardening, and he is doing a little golfing and kayaking. The only thing left to complete his outdoor existence is to get back into sailing, since he lives in the sailing capital of the U.S. Since retiring from the federal government five years ago, RB Lane has been busy consulting with financial institutions in the area of risk management. During the past year, he spent the majority of his time in New York City. He was up there last fall for an extended engagement and wound up with a corporate apartment down in Greenwich Village. One time after dinner he wandered over into the East Village. Based on the sights he saw, he is certain that he looked like one of the Beverly Hillbillies come to the big city. His jaw was hanging open. RB and his family spend at least one week a year in Myrtle Beach, SC. He and Debra always arrange to have breakfast with Tom and Pat Drumwright ’50B while down there. Always great to break bread with one of the members of the Older Corps. In other news, RB’s daughter and her husband are expecting their second child in March 2014. So, Gracie, his granddaughter and heiress to the Lane fortune, will be a big sister (although she’ll now have to share that fortune).

Ellett Smith also sent a bullet list of items that my non-literary chemist brain will attempt to summarize here. Ellett reports that he is “still

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marching on.” His brother, Basil, is hanging in there. Ellett plans to stay with him again soon for a few days. Fran and Ellett work as temp DOD employees, as of this date, under the furlough. Of course, that is supposed to end well before these notes are published. In the interim, they are waiting to hear if their oldest gets a grant for his last two years of his Ph.D. studies. He is to teach two courses this fall at two different colleges. Their middle child is continuing his pursuit of the film industry in Los Angeles. Lastly, their youngest is scheduled to graduate in December and is waiting to hear if she starts her master’s in education in January 2014.

I attended the annual Keydet Club Leadership Dinner in June. I would love to report on all of our Brother Rats who were also there, but give me a break. Do you really expect me to be able to remember that far back? Here are those who I think I remember seeing there: Allen Morgan, Mike Hunter, Billy Hunter, Mark Hall, Tom Mason, Kimo Wong (now married, by the way), Tom Baur (now retired, by the way), Steve Chapin and maybe a few more I have completely forgotten. For any such upstanding individuals, I do apologize.

All is well in the Nunn household. We have enjoyed visiting and being visited by our kids and grandchildren. By the time these notes are published, I will have had my second total knee replacement. I think at that point I will be out of knees.

Thanks again for all of the support. As it will be mid-November when these notes are published, let me wish you all a happy Thanksgiving. Until next time, please stay healthy and stay in touch.

In the spirit, Art

’76

William Bhatta

Brother Rats, These notes were written on August 12. The class of 2014 + 3 matriculates in 5 days, the Corps returns in 13 days, classes begin in 15 days and I cannot believe it has been 41 years since we matriculated.

Things are going well for Bill and Debbie Neal.

Their three boys and two girls are out of college and have established their lives. Their middle son had a grandson, so the pressure is off the other brothers to sustain the family name! Bill said, “Debbie and I are both working too much but have found time to take a couple of weeks off at the Destin, FL, beaches where all the Memphians seem to go.” Bill has been flying Boeing’s 747 for Atlas Air and recently transitioned to the 767.

He flies the cargo and passenger versions all over the world and stays busy training and evaluating new pilots. Bill said, “I enjoy the work and it’s especially rewarding to bring home an airplane full of troops who have finished their tour in Afghanistan. Great men and women.”

Mack and Paula Curle are enjoying retirement.

They have done some extensive travelling. They went down to Myrtle Beach earlier in March for some great seafood and a really excellent time at a wildlife preserve/sculpture garden called Brookgreen Gardens. They took a trip to Tennessee to spend some time with Clyde and Mary Furr, and after visiting with the Furrs, they went on to Nashville and had a blast at the Grand Ole Opry. They also visited Fort Donelson on the Cumberland River and then spent time with some cousins in Murfreesboro.

Their son, Benjamin (’08), and his wife, Megan, are living outside Philadelphia, PA. Benjamin is on active duty with the Pennsylvania Army National Guard for the next six months, overseeing various transportation operations such as planning the movement of units going out of state for annual training and overseeing equipment evaluations.

Clyde and Mary Furr were busy this past summer. In early May, they visited Fort Riley, KS, to see Captain John Furr take command of an artillery battery. Clyde said he is doing a great job, enjoying challenges of command and getting great support from his better half, the former Kathryn Dickson. Later in May, their daughter, Katie, delivered a grandson! Katie is married to Major Morgan McDaniel and they are stationed at Fort Bragg, NC. Two days after Ethan David was born, his dad shipped off to Afghanistan for nine months. Clyde said, “My daughter decided to move in with us during his deployment, so now the poor kid is going to be smothered in grandmotherly love and attention! Of course, real men like me don’t get emotionally attached to kids, even if he is the most beautiful, talented, precocious kid ever born!” In June, the Furrs officiated the National BB Gun Championship in Rogers, AZ. And then in July, they ran the National Smallbore Metric Championship in Bristol, IN. They both volunteered for these matches and enjoyed the camaraderie of the NRA folks and the competitors.

Rory Walsh sent me a short note. He is still living in Centreville, VA. In spite of sequestration, the government decided to exercise the option years on two of his company’s contracts supporting the Marine Corps. His son, Matthew, graduated from the last phase of training at the Navy’s Nuclear Power Training Command in Ballston Spa, NY. He will be part of the instructor staff.

The training is an intense two-year program with a high washout rate, so Rory is very proud of him.

BRs in Europe update: Mark Sculley is racking up airline miles flying in Europe and to/from

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES the United States. The Sculleys attended Julian’s may come back to find five pounds of tomatoes, I did get was that he is with working with the (’09) May wedding in the Pittsburg, PA, area. squash and cucumbers in the front seat. By this Wounded Warriors Project and killing a lot of Julian finished his Ph.D. in February and now time of the year, farmers get tired of the fruit of pigs. It was great talking to Mark; I hope he can make it to a reunion. works for Booze Allen Hamilton in Denise and I celebrated the Fourth Arlington, VA. J.R. Mott reported of July by having dinner with Chris Heidelberg’s four caserns shut their Nash (senior and junior). Chris and I gates in June and 5th Corps cased its talk occasionally on business matters. colors. He said most of the military My company helps Chris from time facilities left in Germany are at Stuttto time. Chris was a gracious guest. gart, the K-town/Landstuhl complex He claimed he enjoyed the chicken and Wiesbaden. J.R. and Mei have and even drank our homemade settled down in the Stuttgart area and kombucha. He was in town to help their two girls are going fine. As for Gene Williams ’74 with the COW myself, Michelle and I are enjoying program under way. the empty nest. Allison, my youngChris had recently hosted Glenn est daughter, left graduate school at Davidson and Toni at his house VCU last September to work for a big in Charlotte. Glen and Toni were advertising agency in Boulder, CO. headed to Camp Lejeune for their Laura, my oldest daughter, enjoys son’s graduation from boot camp. her career as a nurse. Last October, As Chris tells it, after dinner he took she married a young man who teaches Glen and Toni to the local mall so advanced placement courses and Class of 1976: Ron and Ulla Lagrone, left, with Barry that Toni could get a dress and shoes coaches baseball at one of our local and Francine Helms on the Helms’ front porch in Chrisfor the graduation. To Chris’ extreme high schools. David (’06) is stationed tiansburg, Virginia. On their way back from a wedding surprise, Glen did the shopping! He at Fort Bragg, NC, with a great wife in Washington, D.C., the Lagrones also stopped by VMI. picked out the dress and shoes and and two beautiful daughters. He has had her try them on and such. I have been deployed in southwest Asia a hard time understanding Chris’s amazement; for several months, but by the time you read their garden and prefer a good ol’ Big Mac. Many of you have sent me notes, letters and we all do the shopping for our wives … right? these notes, he should be back. I am the last 76er Mike Conaway wrote a nice note. Mike and standing at Altria after Lee Bradshaw retired this e-mails. Thank you, that means I do not have to Carol spent a few days with Will and Trish spring. I am still working in the IT department and make much up.

I received a very nice letter from Tom Pender. Bynum at Kill Devil Hills in North Carolina’s started thinking about the retirement countdown.

It might be a long countdown but you have to Tom lives in Manassas and writes that he is a Outer Banks in June. I asked him to send me some judge at the USITC. I was curious what the USITC photos for the Review, but he said all evidence of start sometime.

That’s it for this issue. Hope to hear from you is, so I Googled it. USITC means United States the event had been destroyed.

Speaking of evidence being destroyed, when I soon. Until next time, keep the VMI spirit alive. International Trade Commission. One of the first names to pop up was Tom’s. Even if you barely wrote in the last class notes that Booz Allen was pay attention to the news, you probably know of moving Mark Bryant to Hawaii, I had no idea the Steve Neas the Apple vs. Samsung case. Tom has made some significance of the move. We probably all read in rulings on that case. I have visions of a room the papers that a position had opened up at Booz packed with file cabinets full of lawyerly docu- Allen in Hawaii about that time. Mark might be a ments and Tom patiently and dutifully pouring good choice for the next class agent since he has over each page, synthesizing the information and access to everyone’s information anyway. ActuBrother Rats, I sit here in my house on a rainy applying the law. Thank you for your service. Tom ally, Mark is working at SOPAC in the J3 as a Sunday. It is early August at this writing. The wrote of owning some property near New Market. strategic planner. Mark says there is an active VMI Alumni Review staff like to get my notes in early. He has spent time with Mike Davis during visits group out there including Russ Takata ’74, comIt takes them and most of the English department there. Tom plans to retire there. He is building (to mander of Delta Company when we were Rats. to clean up my typos, syntax and to convert my put it in his words) a “grandchild trap.” He has one Bob Hartzell wrote to tell me his son, James, drivel into readable English, and so they need grandchild and is waiting on a second. graduated from Ranger School in May. Bob time. You may want to find someone who knows Sitting in my office one day, the phone rang and confessed to supporting Paul Seufer’s lifestyle how to write when you are done with me as class on the other end was none other than Mark Lisi! by wagering against Paul on horse races. Bob, agent; the news will be more current.

I see many posting from Mark on Facebook. His just give him the money and don’t bet. Wagering Where was I? Oh yes, it is the Dog Days of photos typically show Mark holding a rifle and creates too much negative karma. Bob said he Summer. We have had plenty of rain here in the standing over something dead, like a deer or a had recently played golf with Jim Anderson and valley. While the tomatoes are bountiful, they lack pig. Mark is working at the command center at Paul Farrell. I hope, Bob, that you did not bet the flavor of those that are starved for a little water. Fort Lewis. We had a great conversation about against those two.

The corn is of “Jack-in-the-Beanstalk” proportion. his being in and out and back again in the Army.

Bill Powell is retired and living on the bay We all know Lexington to be a very conservative He retired as a colonel and is working as a D.A. in eastern Virginia. He sent me an e-mail from and honest community. One does not need to lock civilian. (I think I got that correct. To be honest, the Philippines. Although retired, Bill still does their car door when parking downtown, except Mark packed so much information in a short some consulting work just to get out of the this time of year. If you do not lock your door, you conversation, I had trouble keeping up.) What house. If life wasn’t interesting enough, he has

’77

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 1977: Roy and Beth Siegel on their trip to Russia. begun renovating his house. Bill and Carol plan to stay in the house during the renovation. Bill, hope you enjoy sheetrock dust with your morning cereal. A little lead-based paint never hurt anyone.

By the time this is published, Bill should be up to three grandchildren and maybe they have their house back.

I have sent out an e-blast announcing the change of command in Korea. Lt. Gen. J.D. Johnson successfully kept Kim Jon Jr. in his box. After all the threats and folderol of the spring, Junior quieted down, realizing that JD was on the other side of the border, cocked and ready. JD’s new assignment is director of the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization. It is good to have JD and Cheryl back on this side of the drink.

(Editor’s Note: See the “Our Alumni Serving” section toward the front of this Review for photos of Gen. Johnson.)

That brings me to the sad news. Don Browder informed me of the death of Kim Rose’s son on June 24. Kim’s son was in his last year of residency.

He laid down for a nap between shifts and never woke up. So sad.

Stan Stout wrote me about the death of his wife, Jennifer, on New Market Day. Jennifer had AML Leukemia. Stan, you have our blessing and prayers.

Losing a son or a wife is a pain that does not go away.

Col. Barrett died on August 12. Col. Barrett was loved by most of us. Col. Barrett was Bert Deacon’s father-in-law. Good wishes to Bert and Meg as they live through their grief. (Editor’s Note: Col. Barrett’s obituary will appear in the next issue of the Alumni Review, 2014-Issue 1.)

On a lighter note, Roy Siegel sent me a photo of him and Beth outside Peterhof in St. Petersburg, Russia. I may have reported earlier that Roy is retired, living in Bel Air, MD, and most importantly, Beth makes an awesome dessert.

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Steve Turley is living in Colorado Springs and working for Jacobs Engineering. Steve is working as a systems engineer with a chemistry degree.

This proves the point that VMI men can excel at anything, regardless of their degree.

Who knew that when General Norman Schwarzkopf was promoted from colonel to BG, he’d choose Kurt Weidenthal as his aide? I reason that Stormin’ Norman knew that Kurt was VMI class of ’77, and he, being a West Pointer, needed some VMI influence to be successful. Looks like it worked. While Kurt has not confessed any of this to me, a good class agent has his ways. Kurt is living in Huntsville working for Booz Allen Hamilton.

This leads me to another super ’77 rock star. After retiring as a commander in the Navy, Brother Rat Tim Thompson founded and operates the Ryoshin-Kan Karate School in Virginia Beach.

Tim works with young boys and girls teaching them about themselves and their personal power.

The photos on Facebook are great. You typically find dozens of young in their karate garb standing with Tim in some sort of fierce, frightening stance. Sometimes there is one or two standing on Tim’s shoulders. Occasionally, there is a photo of Tim breaking bricks … stacks of bricks. Some stacks taller that most cadets in Charlie Company, taller than Tim! George Kalaris sent a short note. He summed things up nicely, and I quote, “As for me, my M.D. tells me that I am decaying at the appropriate rate for a man of my years.” Let’s hope that rate of decay is as slow as possible. It would be nice to see George at the next few reunions. George is living with his wife, Sally, in Daphne, Alabama.

Chris Perry forwarded an e-mail from Jimmy Schaffer. Jimmy and Michelle are living in Salem, NJ. Jimmy retired from PSEG Nuclear in December

2011. Jimmy has three children plus two dogs with the combined weight of 56 pounds. Jimmy expects to be a grandfather in November – twins for the first time!

Now on to Allen Waters! Allen sent a great note summarizing his life after VMI. Allen has worked since graduation in the aerospace industry. He has participated in investigations of the Challenger disaster, the American Airline Flight 587 accident and worked on the NASA Space Shuttle Return to Flight effort after the Columbia accident. Allen beat a serious bout of cancer in 2008. He and his wife, Debra, have traveled the world. Allen, I will be happy to send you a map showing you the route from Virginia Beach to VMI so you can make it back for a reunion. We would all love to see you.

My world collides occasionally with Randy Darden. We worked for the same company for a while. I understand through an intermediary that Randy is now in Virginia Beach running an office for Dewberry. Randy, please give Allen a map to Lexington.

After leaving VMI, my first assignment was at Fort Bragg. Bill Short and I went in together and bought a house in Harnett County. It was a few miles out, right on the flight path to the drop zones. There was nothing like that warm feeling at 2 a.m., lying in bed on a cold February morning, waking to the sound of a sortie of C-130s on their way to Holland DZ and knowing you were not on one of those birds. Bill and I both commanded companies at Fort Bragg and rarely saw each other, but it was a great time for the both us (for me, maybe not Bill). That is to say, I hear from Bill occasionally. He is now in Tampa doing great things. Bill, I will always cherish those years, even the time you brought your first sergeant’s wife and three children to live in our house, then left me alone with them while you and the first sergeant trained at Fort Chaffee for two weeks.

Class of 1977: Allen and Carol Waters on their trip to the Easter Islands.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES I cannot end without speaking of Reed Bonadonna. Reed, thanks for e-mailing me, but one e-mail in 36 years is not acceptable. Reed is working for the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy as the director of ethics. Those cadets are blessed to have someone like Reed to light their way.

Reed retired from the USMCR in 2008 and does some teaching at the Command and Staff College.

Reed spoke recently at his wife, Sue’s, birthday party that he “thought of himself as a man more favored by fortune than as someone especially wise or good.” Actually, Reed, we are favored ones to know you.

We are blessed to spend a unique and wonderful time together. I am out of time and words. There are so many stories to tell. Please keep the e-mails and cards coming.

’78

Tom Brown

Brother Rats, As you read this, it is now close to Thanksgiving and our 35th Reunion has come and gone. I hope all who came enjoyed visiting and sharing stories. Please remember to pass those reminiscences along for the next set of notes. Now to the latest from around the class.

Gene Sveum checked in, saying it’s been so many years since he has been in touch, and he thought this was as good a time as any to give an update of what he has been up to since graduation and to let everyone know that he is still around. Gene worked for the Fairfax County Virginia Police Department for a few years and then went to work for the U.S. Secret Service where he had a rather interesting and rewarding career. During his career, he was assigned in Atlanta and Orlando, with a few inbetween stops in Washington D.C. – one of which was five years with the Presidential Protective Division during Clinton (could Gene tell some good stories). He still does not know where he found the time to get married, have four children and now is a proud grandfather of seven. Gene wonders where the time went and everyone tells him he is too young to have so many grandkids.

Gene retired in 2003 from the Secret Service to accept a job with the Federal Air Marshal Service in the northern Virginia area. He is on the move again and transferring to the FAMS Baltimore Field Office (Gene can’t believe he is leaving Virginia for Maryland). Finally, he may be able to get that house on the water. Gene wanted to keep it short but found it hard when trying to summarize the many years since that sunny day in May 1978.

He says he will make sure that he keeps in touch more frequently and hopefully can reconnect with some of old friends. Thanks for the update, Gene.

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Hugh Crawford sent along that he finished hiking the Appalachian Trail with his youngest son, Bennett. They did a total of 2,185 miles – Springer Mountain, GA, to Katahdin, Maine. He said it was not a through hike though. Hugh’s son, Bennett, wanted to finish the trail before he started college, and since he was still in high school, they had to break it into three summers – 2011, 2012, 2013.

They started this summer in Duncannon, PA, on June 3. One thousand-plus miles later, they summited Katahdin on August 12. Now Hugh’s son is off to Lafayette College to study mechanical engineering. Way to go, Hugh!

That wraps up the input from the summer – short and sweet. I would like to pass along that I had great support getting the reunion together from Ronnie Milligan with an assist from Jay Hutt.

Most of all, I would like to thank my wonderful wife, Pat, for all her hard work coordinating the event. I am no longer a rookie and will make the next one even better. Please send along your news so we can hear about what you have been doing.

In the spirit.

’79

Michael Ogden

We start off our first summer assignment papers with a note from Phyllis (not Jay, mind you) Higginbotham. “What summer vacation?

Somehow, we didn’t get around to an actual vacation this year, but we did spend a good portion of the summer shuttling various offspring around the country. We enjoyed their company, so that counts for a lot. It is harder and harder to find time to get together with our four children, ages 18 to 26. May was a bittersweet time for our family as we lost my father, L.C. Shelton Jr., following a major stroke. However, we were comforted by the fact that Dad had lived a full life over his nearly 92 years and had forged strong and loving relationships with his two children and four grandchildren. His memorial service was truly a celebration of a life well lived. However, Dad was not a Keydet, but he was a proud 1943 graduate of VPI, as he still called it, having been a member of Battery N of the Corps of Cadets.

Dad was proud of all his grandchildren, but especially of Hunter, who graduated from Tech in 2009 with a degree in building construction and was Dad’s fishing buddy. The month ended on a happier note as our youngest son, Sumner Shelton Higginbotham, graduated from Virginia Episcopal School in Lynchburg, headed for the College of William and Mary in August. June was a time of transitions as our daughter, Meg, completed three years of teaching at St. Margaret’s School in Tappahannock. We moved all her furniture, etc., home

just before she and I drove to Santa Fe where she took the second summer of her coursework toward her master’s degree through the Bread Loaf School of English. Meg will be teaching this fall at the Flint Hill School in Oakton, VA, so there is more moving of furniture, etc., in our near future. Our third child, Win, completed the first session of summer school at VMI and then flew to the month-long camp at Fort Lewis, WA. He returned home at the end of July for a short time with the family before beginning his first class year at VMI. Wow, the years have flown by. The driving force of this summer has been our oldest son, Hunter, a building contractor, who is moving our longstanding house renovation project along at a swift pace – it looks like we may finally move in, albeit just in time for all the children to have left the nest. He is an inspiration with his determination and focus to get this job done. So, we didn’t have an actual vacation together this year, but we did have a good deal of quality time with our children as they move into adulthood. That is the best gift they could give us – their time.” And you, not Jay, get an “A-plus!”

Mike Mullins gets an “A-plus” also, since our themed class notes inputs caused him to break his 30-plus year hiatus on sending class notes inputs!

Mike is currently with the Army Materiel Command in Huntsville, Alabama, and in July, Mike and Charlotte went to Savannah, GA, where their daughter, Jennifer, joined them. Jen works at the Army Research Lab in Adelphi, MD, having just completed the five-year AMC Fellows program.

Mike writes, “As beautiful and interesting as the city of Savannah is, it paled in comparison to Newman Gymnasium at Fort Stewart where we happily watched our son, Jason, 1LT, lead the 766th EOD Co. through the door as they returned from a nine-month deployment to Afghanistan.

Jason is a USMA 2010 grad but has finally come to grips with being from the second best military school!” Needless to say, Mike and Charlotte are so proud of both their kids and their service to the Army. Mike admits that being on the waitingend of a deployment is much harder than he ever thought it was. Know that feeling and concur, Mike! Thanks for breaking the hiatus!

John Kailey tries to slyly suggest his grade hoping for better result. “Guess I will get a ‘B.’ A rather uneventful summer – 6’ 2”, 220-pound boy playing football again. Me, discovering that my glucose is too high and realizing that sodas are not good for you. Beyond that, getting ready to officiate football, and I joined the adjunct faculty of Emory, teaching project management.

BTW, if anyone has a Karmann Ghia for sale in the SE, I might be in the market. Let’s just call it my midlife crisis, beyond my deploying to Iraq a couple of years ago. I trust all is well, and I share John George’s fear of flying. Also, congratulate Al Soltis on becoming a grandfather. Boy, are

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CLASS NOTES we getting old.” Thanks, John. Barely a “B” BR! John Poffenbarger, Rich McGruder, Andy Neff, Alvarez that I couldn’t attend his medal award.

Gleb Taran submits, “For my summer vacation Steve Scaglione, Jack Stevenson, Dave Smith He sent a nice note back and stated what had I took the great Southside Virginia tour, camping and, of course, Doug Doerr. Doug reports, “The already been stated in the e-mail trails about Tom across the state at the state parks. First Landing walk to the gravesite was about a mile away, and it Kovach’s funeral.

I stayed in the coop and cut Meade Spotts’ (Virginia Beach), Occoneechee (Clarksville), was a brisk walk on a nice afternoon. The Marine Claytor Lake, Natural Tunnel (Scott County) and Band was providing cadence for us as me moved lawn in prep for the annual picnic. All the Spotts were busy at the bay, so they left me into West Virginia – Pipestem and to my bush hogging serenity. I have Hawks Nest (New River Gorge). I also been talking to Sput Leadbetter also went to freshman orientation at about joining him at the bay for the Old Dominion U. with number one weekend. We can’t jive schedules yet son. I think I enjoyed the orientation but are working toward September.” more than he did. He was suffering In a follow-up e-mail from Bro, from a case of ‘mathadosis’ after bemore in his usual vernacular,“mine ing presented with the math requireis more like a ‘B,’ and yes, I did get ments during the engineering school the Review. And yes, I did turn right orientation.” Uh, that’s a “B-.” to class notes, then to the pictures and Doug Doerr entered the “what I did articles. It is an amazing publication on my summer vacation” essay conif you think about it.” That’s better. test as well and sent the following: Back to normal, Bro! “I visited paternal relatives in South Eddie Semler (yes, that Eddie Dakota in May. I have been fortunate Semler) dropped me an e-mail with this summer to spend time with many Class of 1979: From left, Asa Page, John Arthur, Frank some pretty interesting news. Apof our BRs in the northern Virginia Jester and Mike Ogden met with fellow alumni, cadets, pears he is moving to Lexington this area, specifically Tom Manley, Pete new Rats, and VMI friends and family at the VMI Alumni summer. Eddie took a job with his Underwood and Eric Schwarz, Association Western Tidewater Chapter Rat Send-off, sharing time together, usually over same company (Saint Gobain Tech summer 2013. a meal. I visited VMI with Tom Rep) in the western part of the state.

Manley about a month ago. Tom’s Eddie decided to rent the first year nephew, Myles Manley ’16, rooms with John Pof- to area 35. As we walked, it was pretty easy to to recover from the sale of his house in Virginia fenbarger’s nephew. What a coincidence! It was walk in cadence to the beat of the drum, something Beach. Eddie writes, “All four of my children and a pleasure to meet them, and I can tell both these I don’t think I will ever forget from our days at all three grandchildren, who are scattered around lads are the same top caliber as our BRs! While the Institute. The gravesite service was impres- the country, are doing well. My youngest, Jake, at the Institute, we visited with Tom Trumps and sive as the Marines did their very best to provide starts his senior year at Longwood this month, Jeff Curtis, and I visited a third classman, Sean reverence and respect to the family. Each one of us which means my last year of tuition payments. I McVey, who I met at summer camp a few years expressed our condolences to Mary and the family. hope to bump into Jeff Curtis, Tom Trumps and ago. He told me that he traced his dyke lineage Afterwards, most of us gathered for an impromptu others once I relocate. Looks like the class of ’79 back to the class of ’79, and his grand dyke is Dan get together in Arlington.” Thanks to all of those is taking Lexington by storm! I am officiating Sheahan. That made me think a bit. We possibly who were able to attend. Mary and her family cer- women’s D III field hockey this year and will concould provide a mentorship to our grand dykes. tainly appreciated such a strong showing from ’79. tinue to officiate NCAA men’s lacrosse until my Sean told me that he would trace forward my lin- Doug had something very poignant to say, “Don’t legs fall off. Keeps me in shape. We’re not getting eage and tell me who my ‘relative’ is in his class. miss the opportunity to call one another, if even any younger, are we?” Great hearing from you, In September, I am going to organize a northern for a moment, just to remind each other that we BR! Watch out, Lexington! Jeff, you will have Virginia class of ’79 event (breakfast) and ask that are brothers in the spirit of VMI.” (Editor’s Note: your hands full with both Tom and Eddie around!

Asa Page checks in advising this has been an our BRs bring photographs that they took at VMI. Tom Kovach’s obituary and a photo appear in the extremely fast summer for the Page family. Son I recently organized my basement and found old Taps section of this Alumni Review.)

I actually got a decrypted readable note from number two is about to head out the door for his photographs that I hadn’t seen in 30 years. Tom Manley got a kick out of seeing the two of us Bill Albro! Hey, that rates an “A” in my book! first class year at VMI. Asa again passes along to with his father while we were at OCS. I am certain Bro writes, “Not much to report from the Waldorf everyone to please drop him a note if you’re headthat we all will share similar memories, for those front – all the ‘Waldorfians’ are quiet and working ing back to the Institute for a football game. He that bring their pictures.” Thanks, Doug, from all away. I just got back from two weeks in Scotland and Karen will be tailgating at each home game in of us for your monumental efforts in organizing with family (Brother Bri ’90, Mom and Dad and front of Moody Hall and would love to have you the class’s attendance at the viewing, funeral and lots of aunts/uncles/cousins). Weather was fabu- join them. Asa reports he’s been traveling a lot in Arlington internment ceremonies for our departed lous. I actually came back with a tan, which is his job and really enjoys being retired from the BR, Tom Kovach. something you don’t usually say about a Scotland Navy and in his second career. Asa, Mike “Ghoul” While we are on the subject, Tom Kovach’s trip. I talked with Noel Harris when I got back. Thomas and Jim Leavitt are planning another interment ceremony went exceptionally well. Noel is dealing with the furlough/sequester like Cayman scuba trip in the fall. This will be Asa’s The service was most respectful and lasted for everyone else and we both commiserated about fourth trip down, and he’s looking forward to the about 30 minutes. The class of ’79 formed up Washington buffoonery (Ditto here as well). The numerous swashbuckling tales of adventure that outside and walked behind the caisson that car- one day off a week ain’t good for the pocketbook inevitably result in these annual treks with Jim ried Tom’s casket. We had 10 of our BRs show but does allow chores around the house that you and “The Ghoul,” particularly by the pool with a up. Pedro Alvarez, Hank Chase, Bob Morris, can’t seem to get to very easy. Sent note to Pedro cold one in hand.

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1979: From left, Andy Neff, Hank Chase, Steve Scaglione, Doug Doerr, Jack Stevenson, Bob Morris, John Poffenbarger, Rich McGruder, Dave Smith and Pedro Alvarez attended the interment of Lt. Col. Thomas Kovach, USMC (Ret), at Arlington National Cemetery, July 2013.

Brian Tollie drops a note saying, “Not a lot to report, but my wife, Laura, and I managed to link up with Pete and Anita Underwood for a few days up in northern England’s Lake District. It was great to see them again, and we had a great time hanging out at the ‘Drunken Duck’ and other drinking establishments. I’d also like to report that while Pete was out communing with nature, he encountered the elusive stoat. He didn’t have his shotgun with him, so the stoat managed to escape unharmed.

I was not so lucky planning a rendezvous with Meade Spotts and family during Meade’s recent tour of European capitals. Although Meade was a just an hour away in London, we just couldn’t seem to coordinate our schedules. Maybe next time.” Sounds like someone just needs to call a formation! Thanks, BR! In June, Dan Kornacki joined Jessie and John Arthur for the annual Bike Virginia. More than 1,500 Spandex-clothed riders invaded and swelled the population of Buena Vista, Lexington and Buchanan, clogging up the back roads and byways.

John says, “The towns of Lexington and Buena Vista did Virginia proud – so welcoming, gracious and accommodating. One of the routes took us onto Post and a biker asked the question, ‘What is this place?’ His friend responded, ‘West Point Wannabes.’ Whoa! Jess had to hold us back. (Just so you know we left him in our dust!) We had the opportunity to relax and eat dinner with Jeff and Betsy Curtis at their newly renovated house on a small mountain, just west of Lexington. What a lovely home and beautiful view. And now, the information you all have been waiting for. Did Dan kick our a___s? Heck, yeah! One minute, he would say, ‘I’m not used to riding hills,’ and the next minute after climbing up the steepest hill of

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the day, he would ride back down to check on us non-Ironmen. And so, I can verify … Dan, you are an animal. Doug Doerr, put it on your calendar for next year. We’re gonna use you as the rabbit for Dan.” John also bumped into several BRs at the VMIAA Western Tidewater Chapter-sponsored Rat Send-Off barbeque for returning cadets and new Rats. Good turnout overall with more than 150 alumni, cadets, parents and rising Rats. John and Jessie had a great time catching up with Frank Jester, Asa Page and yours truly.

Ben Bauman, between workouts, found time to write, “My knee surgery recovery is still going strong and as previously disclosed I have been addicted to CrossFit. So, those workouts have helped with my recovery as I have them tailored

Class of 1979: From left, 1st Lt. Tim Fallon, USMC; Jethro Tull frontman, Ian Anderson; and Brig. Gen. Jeffrey G. Smith ’79, USA (Ret), at the Thick as a Brick 2 concert in Vienna, Virginia, on July 16, 2013.

The Andersons, the band and crew made Tim feel like family and gave this true hero an experience that will last a lifetime.

to my needs but they still kick my rear. I have been working on an Army suicide intervention contract for the past six months. I spend about two weeks a month traveling and training companylevel officers and NCOs on how to recognize and take action with potential suicide situations. I do believe we will have an impact with this program.

I have decided to get back into motorcycle riding, and I am looking for a good bike to purchase in the near future. I would prefer a Harley touring bike, but with my busy work schedule, I see no need to rush into anything. I definitely have to have a bike that my lady will enjoy riding, too. Also, my girls start college again in a few days, my son is doing well and my grandson is growing fast and strong! I wish everyone the best.” If you are not yet on Facebook (Yes, ’79 has a page), you are missing Ben’s daily workout missives.

Seemingly always traveling to and from and getting stationed at some of the world’s more interesting places, “Indiana” Tom Baltazar scribbles on the back of a “C” Rat carton: “I returned from another tour in Afghanistan where I was detailed from USAID to the International Security Assistance Force Joint Command (IJC) as the deputy chief of staff for Stability Operations.

Aside from the obvious hardship of yet another separation, it was a great culminating tour for me. The commander, Lt. Gen. James Terry, is a fantastic leader, and he assembled an amazingly talented staff that was a pleasure to work with.

I did a fair bit of work with Adrian Bogart ’81, who is a Special Forces lieutenant colonel and the director of the Special Operations Command’s National Civil-military Operations Center. Upon return to USAID in Washington, I decided it was time for me to allow someone else the pleasure of multiple tours in war zones and resigned from USAID in June. I recently met with one of our BRs, retired Brig. Gen. Jeff Smith ’79, at a small cafe in Old Town Alexandria. Jeff is doing well and looks like he did when we graduated. He’s on the hunt for a job these days and in great spirits. I am actually on a plane headed to Bethel, Alaska, as I write this. My son, son-in-law, his father and my brother-in-law are headed up to a grand adventure supported by none other than Steve Powers of Papa Bear Adventures. Eight days on the Kanektok River, no other people, completely off the grid ... paradise.” Tom promises a picture for the next Review!

Pete Underwood drops a quick, and I do mean quick … dern, there it went, note: “Anita and I just got back from visiting with Brian and Laura Tollie in England. We met them in the Lake District where we stayed at a rental cottage in the English countryside. Had a great time seeing the local sites.” Can almost get that on Twitter!

Thanks Pete!

Jim Elliot writes (shouts!): “Alright already!

Chill out! Had a nice surprise the other day when

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CLASS NOTES the doorbell rang, and who was on my front porch? None other than Cadet Sam Trumps ’15.

Thank God, he looks just like his mother! He was meeting my son, Sam Elliott ’14, and some other cadets to head to D.C. for a concert that weekend.

Had no idea where they were going to sleep that night and weren’t exactly sure where the concert actually was, but they were going anyway! Sound familiar? Anyway, they showed back up sometime Sunday afternoon looking like and smelling like you know what, but they all had huge smiles on their faces. I didn’t ask many questions. Just glad they got home safely! Now I know how my dad used to feel when we’d go on those road trips in the late ’70s!” Thanks, Jim. Hope to see you at a game or two this fall.

Jim Leavitt checks in with self-described “don’t have anything really newsworthy. I know that Asa Page had a son graduate last year from VMI, Brandon, and has one graduating next May as well, Addison. I guess the only thing I can mention is that Mike Thomas and I both have sons matriculating at Ole Miss this month. Neither of us could get the boys to even sniff at VMI. Apparently, the adage that Ole Miss is the only university in the country that ‘redshirts’ Miss Americas was a big draw, plus SEC football. The Ghoul and I both look forward to attending a few games!” Now that’s not so bad Jim! John Colonna writes what I hear an awful lot of recently. “The most recent Alumni Review just arrived yesterday. I loved reading Jeff Smith’s note.” And the kind words I have come across are not just from ’79! John also notes that son David got married to Ms. Natalie Price in Columbus, Ohio, on July 14 and that Ray and Shelley Duffett were in attendance. They had a great time with them, and the wedding was fabulous.

David and Natalie are living in Virginia Beach.”

You know you are in trouble when someone sends his class notes input as an attached Word document. (Sigh.) Careful what you ask for Ke-mo sah-bee. Guess who? Why, “Uncle Stosh” Morris of course. I am only allocated five pages per Review edition, and it was either his or mine! Stosh’s notes were, are, always will be, so good that I have decided to post them on the class Facebook page and send them out via e-mail. Too good, a masterpiece really, to let lie fallow or to wait until the next Review comes around. Maybe we should just have one of the four annual editions just be for Stosh?

This spring, I was nominated by Asa Page for a leadership position within the VMI Alumni Association. I got the “nod” late this summer by VMIAA Executive Committee to join Asa as the VMIAA co-regional director for the Hampton Roads Region. Between this new position, my duties as class agent and Eastern Shore VMIAA Chapter president, I may end up paying Lexington city taxes as I may be spending more time there than at home these next few years. And to think our 25th was my first reunion.

Renee continues as director of the Northampton County Chamber of Commerce and I as a slimy no-longer-furloughed GS. (Remember this was written in August! Who knows what FY14 holds?) Eldest is doing well. Engaged now and due to get married next July 5. Yup, rehearsal dinner on July Fourth. (Sigh.) Youngest and wife Dani are enjoying that wonderful garden spot called 29 Palms California awaiting the start of classes at the Marine Corps CommunicationsElectronics School. That’s all for now, BRs. I will be sending out information and suggestions for our 35th Reunion this fall as details emerge.

Stay well. Get those annual physicals done!

John Gibney Jr.

’80

Hello, Brother Rats, These notes cover the period May 16, 2013 through Aug. 15, 2013, three months that encompass another VMI graduating class and another entering mass of Rats.

The period began with a New Market Day call from Wade Stinnette. Wade reports that all is well with Lannie and the kids, as is the financial services business in Columbia, SC. Forrest Marion sent an e-mail after attending VMI’s commencement exercises. His son, Nathan, joined Dan Sweeney’s son, Dan Jr., and Jay McCauley’s son, Sean, as graduates with the class of 2013. Forrest also wrote that the governor’s speech included a reference to Joe and Sue Brown. John Alerding also attended graduation and sent a text noting the above graduates.

Elliott Wolffe was visiting his family in New Jersey, and we played golf together at Baltusrol. We also played in July at my course in the Poconos.

Matthew and Tonya Keys sent an e-mail with a photo after sitting in our seats at a Jazz Lincoln Center concert.

Dennis Maguire sent an e-mail after receiving the end-of-year letter from his class agent. Dennis reports that all is well in Boston.

Tom Bersson sent an e-mail with a photo taken in NYC after his daughter, Beth, graduated from NYU. George Filer sent an e-mail with an update.

George teaches electrical technology to 11th and

Class of 1980: The Woods and McCarthys in Peru June 2013

Mary Lynne and Walt Wood celebrated their 28th wedding anniversary at Machu Picchu, Peru.

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Pat McCarthy and Walt Wood on top of Huayna Picchu.

From left, Pat and Roni McCarthy with Mary Lynne and Walt Wood.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES 12th grade students in Welch, WV. His oldest son, Brian, is in a master’s degree program in accounting after graduating from Concord College with a degree in math. Keith, a graduate of American Public University with a degree in criminal justice, is a prison guard in Pocahontas, VA. Mark has just entered the Air Force Academy. George and Regina are moving to a new home in Bluefield, VA. They may visit Lexington in October.

May ended with an e-mail from Tuck Masker after he completed the 104-mile Mountains of Misery bicycle ride in the Roanoke area, finishing 376 out of more than 600 riders.

June began with an e-mail from Steve Andrews containing a photo of his daughter, Caroline, who received the Marine Corps leadership award (one of nine awards she received) at her high school senior awards night. Congrats Steve, Cathy and Caroline, who chose to attend Clemson. This prompted a connection between Steve and Chal Glenn, since Chal’s son attends Clemson, and his daughters are Clemson graduates.

John Briggs sent an e-mail with an update from his home in Huntsville, AL. His message included photos of John and his fiancée, Kirstin, who he met at their local fencing club. John proposed to her there, as shown in the photos that he sent. They also visited Lexington and had lunch with Hugh Fain during a trip up the East Coast. John is the general manager for the Logistics Subsidiary of System Studies & Simulations, Inc. He also has an awesome granddaughter.

I received separate texts from Lexington from Robby Jones and Scott Sayre in response to birthday cards. Both report that all is well. Scott did add that Frank Hilton’s mother passed away.

Dave Gleason sent an e-mail asking for contact information for Les Walsh. Did you guys connect?

Mike Luning sent an e-mail reporting on the passing of Don Bradshaw’s father.

Rob Robinson sent an e-mail noting that in his position with Norfolk Southern, he sees Andy Brown on occasion. Rob reported that Andy, an admiral in the Navy, was selected to receive his third star. My efforts to confirm this with Andy were unsuccessful. However, the Internet listed his confirmation.

Michelle and Joe Paustenbaugh sent via snail mail a note with a thank you for the birthday card and a change in their Utah address.

June ended with an e-mail from Walt and Mary Lynne Wood with a photo taken at Machu Picchu in connection with celebrating their 28th wedding anniversary.

July began with an e-mail from Walt Wood that followed receipt of a brochure that highlighted the mission work he and Mary Lynne do in Peru.

Included was information about representatives from VMI, including Pat and Roni McCarthy, who visited Ayacucho and participated in their

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work. The visit is covered in greater detail in the Association News section of this Review. Not included in the brochure was Walt’s story about sending Pat to the ladies room, since Pat cannot read Spanish. Separately, Walt noted his contact with Col. John Hughes, a Gulf War veteran who is retired from the Army. Walt and Mary Lynne plan to visit VMI in October.

Class of 1980: John Briggs proposed to his fiancée, Kirstin, at their fencing club in Huntsville, Alabama.

Class of 1980: John Blankenship, left, and Hugh Fain on a golf trip to Scotland in July 2013.

Patti and I had dinner with Matthew and Tonya Keys in NYC. Tonya is traveling extensively for work, including extended trips to the Far East and London.

Pat Griffin, his wife, Beth, and their son, John, visited with me and Patti in the Poconos on their return to Boston after dropping their son, Michael, at VMI. Michael is a Rat who completed VMI’s Summer Transition Program. We had a brief but very enjoyable visit, including Pat’s New Orleans hemorrhoid (a word I did not know how to spell) story. If Pat hadn’t gotten lost one block from our

Poconos house, which he blamed on the GPS, I wouldn’t have written that last line. But he did, so I did.

The Alumni Association sent an e-mail noting that Ben Judge will be inducted into the VMI Sports Hall of Fame for track. The ceremonies occurred on Sept. 13 and 14. Congrats, Ben! Jack Keane sent an e-mail with a photo of Keith Stewart and the youngest son of Johnny Unitas, Chad.

Mike Luning sent an update on the annual trek a group of our BRs make to Lexington in the fall.

This year the visit is in October in connection with Parent’s Weekend. Scheduled events include a golf outing, a dinner, tailgating before the football game and a party at Gary Levenson’s quarters on the Parade Ground. BRs expected to attend include John Alerding, Ed Baker, Don Bradshaw, Larry Hupertz, Andy Ludlum, Pat McCarthy, Yves Pollart, Jay McConnell, Rob Quarles, Bill Roelofsen, Dan Sweeney, Dixon Tucker, Preston Vock, Elliott Wolffe and Walt Wood.

Bert Schneider sent an e-mail with an update from his home in Arizona that included photos of the bathroom he renovated. He and Peggy are doing well. Their son, Chris, a veterinarian in Phoenix, got married in January.

Hugh Fain sent two photos from the golf trip he and John Blankenship took to Scotland where they played eight courses including Carnoustie, St. Andrew’s, Troon and Turnberry.

July closed with my rescinding an offer to Wade and Lannie Stinnette to stay in our apartment during the U.S. Open because Patti already promised it to her friends. I am one down.

August brought the sad news of the passing of Pat and Roni McCarthy’s daughter, Katie, due to injuries suffered in a car accident. Katie was scheduled to graduate from nursing school in September. The outpouring of support from our BRs was enormous. I was copied on e-mail messages from Dusty Boyd, George Condyles, Dan Conn, Kevin Cordray, Hugh Fain, Rick Fowler, Bob Hillard, Tolar Nolley, Dennis Hackemeyer, Walt Kreitler, John Rudolph, Robby Wheeler and Bud Zirkle. I also spoke several times with Andy Ludlum. Andy and Nicki are close friends with Pat and Roni in addition to being geographic neighbors. Thanks to Andy and to Walt and Mary Lynne Wood for keeping our BRs connected during this time of tragedy.

Ed Baker sent an update after reading the Alumni Review. Ed still puts in “26-hour days” as an OB-GYN surgeon in North Carolina where Ed, his hospital and three partners have done tens of thousands of deliveries and surgeries over 22 years. Earlier this year, Ed’s daughter was in a serious car accident but has since recovered. Ed and Dianna have been married for 28 years and she still out-fly-fishes him, as evidenced during their trip to Canada this year, where she also

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CLASS NOTES out-trout-fished him. They are planning to visit VMI in October.

Dave Hagemann sent an e-mail with a photo of a new cadet recruiting dinner he attended in Michigan.

As the period ended, Andy Ludlum called and said that had dinner with John Diggs in Raleigh.

Also, Pat Griffin called. He hosted Phil and Kathy Munisteri at his beach house in Rhode Island as a prelude to taking Michael to VMI to begin his Rat year. Pat also spoke with Hal Snyder who was vacationing in Cape Cod. Hal supposedly connected there with Dennis Maguire.

Patti and I plan to visit VMI in connection with Parents Weekend in October and for the Foundation board meeting and the Institute Society Dinner in November. We look forward to seeing as many of you as possible.

Finally, please recall that there is a limit of five photos that can appear with each set of class notes.

Also, all photos have to meet certain publication requirements.

The NYC sports teams are not doing well this summer, so no bragging to end these notes. However, Patti did find a small piece in the New York Post that I meant to send to Larry Hupertz but will instead share with the class. It seems that a Cleveland man’s obituary said that he requested six Cleveland Browns pallbearers – so the Browns could let him down one last time.

Thanks to all for your support.

’81

Trip Lloyd

Dear Brother Rats and Families, Things continue going well in the Lloyd house.

The days are shorter and the grip of winter is upon the land. School is underway for the children. My daughter, Amanda, is enjoying life as an eighth grader who is taking some classes at the high school. She recently announced to me that she wants to fly for the Navy just like I did. My son, Liam, is moving ahead in fifth grade. They are both making my bride, Anne, and me very proud parents. Anne is getting ready to embark on another foray into professional theater but is concerned that the show has a performance on Christmas Day. I continue working at USAID, and I’m fantasizing about using my new Nordic skis and enjoying the slopes in Canaan Valley, WV. I wish you all a great winter and the very happiest of holidays.

Michael Placzek spent three weeks this past July in Germany with his daughter, Rachel, and her Army husband, Erik, a medic with an artillery regiment there. During their visit, Plaz and his wife, Lynn, toured Berlin (Checkpoint Charlie, Berlin Wall, Brandenburg Gate and the Hard Rock

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Class of 1981: As stated in a recent Virginian-Pilot article, Tammy and Jim Holloway have redone a historic home in Cape Charles, Virginia, and converted it into a bed and breakfast – the Bay Haven Inn. According to the Pilot article, the couple decided to leave the beltway rat race outside Washington, D.C., and trade it for life in this beautiful small town on Virginia’s Eastern Shore.

The Holloways opened the doors of The Bay Haven Inn of Cape Charles on Veterans Day weekend in November 2012 to a full house. For more information, go to Bayhaveninnbnb.com.

Café) and also toured several other cities involved with Martin Luther and J.S. Bach (Eisenach, Wartburg, Wittenberg, Regensburg). He declared the cathedrals to be magnificent. They also drove to Poznan, Poland, where Plaz’ father was raised.

But, for the most part, they spent a lot of time with Rachel at her house at Camp Vilsek just visiting and having a good time. All is well with Plaz and Lynn. Lynn is working as the kitchen manager for the local elementary school and Plaz is still working the pipeline. Plaz’ daughter, Rachel, is expecting her first child around March 8, 2014; and his son, Dan’s wife, Marie, is expecting their first child around Jan. 7, 2014.

Brian Quisenberry wrote that he ran into Dutch Holland in the cafeteria at Birmingham Southern College. Dutch was there with a Teach America program.

Chip Johnson, a federal judge in New Mexico, was asked to deliver the keynote address and administer the oath of office at the graduation ceremony of the New Mexico State Police recruit class in Santa Fe on June 28, 2013. When Chip was introduced, it was mentioned that he was a VMI grad. At the end of the ceremony, a gentleman approached him and said there were two VMI grads who wanted to meet him: Kylie Lowe ’12, who Chip had just sworn in as a new N.M. State Police officer, and her husband, USAF 1Lt. Matt Lowe ’11, son of our very own Mark Lowe. Kylie was recognized as valedictorian of her recruit class.

Matt told Chip that Mark would soon be retiring from the Army.

John and Patti Dixon spent most of their summer down at their home on Gwynn’s Island. Patti basked in the sun and enjoyed “island living,” and John performed maintenance on their house and attempted to catch just one fish while coercing crabs to find their way into their crab pots. John “worked ahead” and revised course materials for the school year at Carson Long Military Academy.

Suffice it to say that they enjoy “island living.”

Greg and Ann Wolven write their daughter, Katie, is attending the University of South Carolina Aiken graduate school in clinical psychology for the next two years. Ray Lawson and his family live in Aiken and were a big help in moving Katie’s stuff into her new apartment. Greg and Ann saw them again at the end of July when they finished moving Katie into her apartment (she came home for three weeks prior to moving there permanently). It was wonderful getting to know Ray’s family, including his wife, Gale; their son, Brandon; and daughter, Savannah.

Mark Olson wrote to say he retired from civil service in July and is now looking for something to keep him off the streets.

Rob Costello wrote to say that the 34th Annual Fourth of July Ski Bash at Jim Hart’s Smith Mountain Lake house was better than last year.

The culmination of six years of preparation for the ministry that included both graduate academic studies and full-time pastoral experience was realized when Reverend Dave Taylor was ordained an elder in the Church of the Nazarene (CoNT) in July. (Dave shared that the Nazarenes are a

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1981: Jim Hart’s 34th annual Ski Bash at Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia.

Class of 1981: From left, Gale and Ray Lawson with Greg, Katie and Ann Wolven in Aiken, South Carolina, at the end of June 2013.

Class of 1981: Brian Quisenberry, left, and Dutch Holland at Birmingham Southern College in July 2013.

Class of 1981: From left, “Corky” Mitchell, Jim Waring, “Coke” Savage and Greg Doyle just after parade in the spring of their first class year.

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small Protestant denomination in the WesleyanArminian Holiness tradition, tracing their roots through American Methodism to Anglican John Wesley.) In addition to being the senior pastor of Living Water CoNT in Glen Allen, VA, Grover Outland has pegged him our “unofficial chaplain for the class of ’81.”

Ed Boylan writes that it was an extremely hot summer in Texas with 15 days at 100 degrees or hotter. July was filled with activity. Ed; his wife, Linda; their son, Chris, and Chris’ girlfriend, spent a weekend at Horseshoe Bay just west of Austin celebrating their daughter, Peri’s, 21st birthday.

Peri is a senior at the University of Texas at Austin. Their son, Chris, proposed to his girlfriend and they will be married sometime next summer.

Ed and Linda traveled to Virginia over the Labor Day weekend to visit Jim and Brenda Migliarese and Tom and Sandy Savage.

Mike Denton stood as best man for his son, Maury Denton ’07, as he married the dynamic Rachael Harrell of Richmond in early August.

Among the many alumni attending the wedding were ’81 Brother Rats Ed Brown, Mark Gonsalves and Jerry Manley.

Bill Grigg reports that his oldest, Will, is playing football for Florida Atlantic. He says life is good and steady.

Mike Denton, Jerry Manley, Mat Merriman and Paul Boulden were the four passengers in Paul’s Cirrus SR22 Turbo Charged when the aircraft experienced significant loss of power, and he was forced to make an emergency landing while returning from Coke Savage’s funeral service on July 20. The aircraft suffered damage to the engine cowling and both wings, but the four Brother Rats emerged unhurt from the ordeal.

Corky Mitchell authored the following in honor of his roommate and Brother Rat. “It was a very sad day on July 12, 2013, learning our Brother Rat, Robert Albert “Coke” Savage Jr., lost his herculean battle to cancer at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital near his home of Melfa on the Eastern Shore of Virginia. He is immediately survived by his lovely wife, Glynis Savage, his beautiful daughter, Kyesha Savage, his mother, Mrs. Galina Savage, and three sisters, Shelia Savage Goodman, Sharon Savage and Coretta Savage Ellison (Anthony). He received an uplifting and emotional celebration of his incredible life on July 20 at St. John’s United Methodist Church in Atlantic, VA. In addition to the overflowing family and community funeral service, approximately 20 VMI grads shouldered together in attendance were BRs Louis Rolan, “Corky” Mitchell, Pastor Dave Taylor, Mike Denton and Jeff Washington ’80.

They reflected on his unique personality, indelible friendship and his happy effect on our lives.

In addition, Jerry Manley, Paul Boulden, Mat Merriman, Jim Waring, Frank Reece, Grover Outland, Jeff Davies, Ray Moschler and so many

others attended the services. Jim Migliarese, Tim Nitz, Rob Costello and Hal Scott also attended the wake. Many of his own Army National Guard Delta Battery 3/111 ADA unit also stood in recognition and respect for their former platoon commander. The common theme about our friend was the fact he demonstrated the highest caliber and humility in all his endeavors, every day, and far beyond the scope of being a distinguished VMI gentleman. Among the numerous accolades to list, he will be remembered principally as a man of deep Christian faith, a dedicated and loving husband, father, son, brother, friend and our dear Brother Rat in the eternal bonds of the class of 1981.

Coke’s wife, Glynis, sent the following to our class: “What can I say about my husband’s Brother Rats? Not nearly enough that would even fit on these pages. My heart is touched by the love, compassion and dedication shown to my husband both during his illness and after his passing. I wish I knew all of you personally so I could thank you individually for being a part of his life. You Brother Rats are truly a family. Robert, known to me and our family as Bobby and to you as Coke, was so proud to be in your group. He often told me of many VMI stories and the friends he encountered while there from 1977 to 1981. He was so moved by the way you showed him love by giving him your attendance in the hospital, in our home, your phone calls, donations and texts during a time that he needed his friends – his Brother Rats – the most.

“I’m so glad he and I were able to attend his 30th year VMI Class Reunion in 2011. He said it was good seeing and being with so many that he hadn’t seen since graduating in 1981.

I appreciate all of your acts of kindness shown toward me and our family. It was so nice to see so many of you guys attend Coke’s wake and funeral. You thought enough of him to come all this way to show your last respects and farewell

Class of 1981: From left, Louis Rolan, Corky Mitchell and Coke Savage Jr. during a July 4th barbeque at Rolan’s parents’ home in 2011. It was the last time the three roommates were together before Savage passed away.

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CLASS NOTES to him, your Brother Rat. Thanks for sharing your stories and reflections about him.

“I recently read the beautiful article about my husband in our local Eastern Shore Post that some of you participated in. Thank you. You definitely got it right when you said he was humble. Yes, he was humble, intelligent, talented and had a huge and loving heart. He was truly a wonderful man.

Some of you have heard me say that he was my ‘knight in shining armor.’ My ‘knight’ fought the good fight as a good soldier would do, even until the end. I was blessed to have had him in my life. He was a dedicated husband. Thank you for sharing your memories of him.

“Many of you have told me that the VMI family is there for me. That’s one thing that you have certainly proven already. I appreciate you more than you will ever know. Thank you so much from the bottom of my heart. Please know that as Coke is looking down from his home in heaven.

He is happy to know that you thought so much of him, and that his Brothers are available to the needs of his family.

“To the Brother Rats who were in the plane crash after leaving Coke’s funeral: Mike Denton, Paul Boulden, Jerry Manley and Mat Merriman.

I heard of the plane crash from Louis Rolan, and he said you all got out without a scratch. I told Louis that I have no doubt that it was the Coke angel watching over you. Coke interceded to the Father on your behalf, and the Father dispatched Coke’s angel to protect you and bring you safely to the ground. I thank God for that. Bobby (Coke) came to know the Lord as his personal savior, and he is in heaven rejoicing!

Our 30 years of love for each other were unique and special, just like him. My dear husband was a wonderful, humble man indeed. Many, many blessings upon you Brothers. With sincere thanks, Glynis Savage (Mrs. Robert ‘Coke’ Savage).”

’82

Charles Kause

The poetry of earth is never dead: When all the birds are faint with the hot sun, And hide in cooling trees, a voice will run From hedge to hedge about the new-mown mead; That is the Grasshopper’s—he takes the lead In summer luxury,—he has never done With his delights; for when tired out with fun He rests at ease beneath some pleasant weed.

The poetry of earth is ceasing never: On a lone winter evening, when the frost Has wrought a silence, from the stove there shrills The Cricket’s song, in warmth increasing ever,

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And seems to one in drowsiness half lost, The Grasshopper’s among some grassy hills.

—John Keats, “On the Grasshopper and the Cricket” Let’s face it. Spring beat the stuffing out of me this year. Mrs. Kause wanted a whole new lawn in the back yard to slow down the erosion, and the Daughter of Darkness was having a party in honor of her confirmation. I had to do all the heavy lifting. My job disappeared with sequestration, though I fortunately found another position on my contract. Bill Bradley’s untimely death (see Taps, previous Alumni Review) and Rat roommate Chris Simmons’ wife passing away also chilled a sense of hope in spring’s arrival. I fell ill when spring’s class notes were due, and I could not muster the strength to get them published.

After being goaded by several BRs to include Larry Williams, I finally got over my reluctance to increase my Web presence and joined Facebook. I admit it has made my life easier as your class agent. But as the unauthorized revelations of Mr. Snowden have revealed, no one’s privacy is assured by government or grubby commerce.

Despite a gloomy federal budget outlook, with its attendant belt tightening within the government contracting sphere and the agony of fighting a losing battle of a weed-choked lawn, the poetry of the Earth is ceasing never. I have grown the tallest sunflowers ever in my mediocre history as a gardener, and my tomatoes want to ripen without my tender care. Mrs. Kause and I have taken up jet skiing and have been touring the Potomac River. Summer has not been too harsh in northern Virginia.

As spring was turning to summer, we had several Brother Rats attend their children’s college graduation ceremonies. Six BRs had children graduate with the Class of 2013 from VMI: Neal Rogers’ son, Sean; David Loy’s daughter, Chelsea; Joe McConnell’s son, Thomas; Bill Caulfield’s son, Josh; Fortney’s daughter, Lee; and Dave Shutt’s son, Charlie. Jack Wainwright and his son, Jay Wainwright ’16 (Charlie’s Rat), were present for Charlie’s commissioning. Charlie gave his first salute to classmate Tom McConnell ’13, Joe McConnell’s son. Dave and Charlie received many congratulations via text from Mark Ciarrocca, George Mayforth, Jeff Judkins and Dewey Martin. Thrasher, who is Josh Caulfield’s godfather, was also up in Lexington for the ceremony. He graduated with honors from VMI. The real sad thing for Joe McConnell is deciding what he and wife Becky will do on football weekends with no Keydets to cook for. Neal Rogers still has a daughter in college in Vermont and was excited to learn his youngest son, Collin, was accepted into the Naval Academy Prep School. Ed Howland had one daughter, Lindsay, graduate from college,

but still has one more at Radford.

Emmett and Sister Rat Lynn Heltzel gained a son-in-law on June 29 when their daughter, Laura, married Mitch Poole ’13. The pews were filled with Alpha Company alumni. Scott Crumpler dropped me a line to inform me of his various activities. He played golf with Nick Roper and Todd Minnix in a charity tournament back in April. Their usual fourth, Dan Clymore, couldn’t be there, so they went out and proved they could finish poorly with or without him. Scott sees Bob Dorsey regularly in Winchester as they seem to haunt the same breakfast diner on Saturday mornings. Bob continues to grace LF Jennings Construction Company with his skills. Scott also attended John Boyd’s Navy Reserve retirement ceremony in Washington D.C. in January. It was a cold, snowy, crowded Friday afternoon in D.C., but the ceremony was impressive. Scott was really moved to hear “high speed” people say such nice things about his Brother Rat and roommate.

Mitch Heishman was spotted by Scott at a VMI basketball game. Finally, Scott writes he is in a new job as a regional manager for a newly created business, Concrete Pipe and Precast, in Winchester, working for John Blankenship ’80.

Thanks to Snowden and sequestration, my summer has been miserable. Case in point: I was forced to miss Keith “Cookie” Jarvis’ retirement from the Army Reserve, which was also held in the Pentagon, but in July.

Joe Poteralski caught the VMI-Siena lacrosse match up in Loudonville, NY, back in April. VMI lost, but Joe got to see Tom Trobridge’s son in action on the field.

Richard Mustakos no longer wears his class ring proudly. He discovered he is allergic to white gold, specifically the nickel alloy in it.

Will Council was the first BR to go on the VMI Alumni Association cruise to the Caribbean this spring. Of course, he was wise enough to be accompanied by his wife, Susan.

Tom O’Sullivan has broadened his horizons and is now sending out fliers advertising his new company, Advance Guard International, Inc. (AGI), a manufacturer’s representative company specializing in developing international relationships for U.S. firms in the military, law enforcement, tactical and private security markets. Tom’s expertise in international business and sales, supply chain management, export and import controls, account management, marketing, strategy and business development, brings U.S. manufacturers together with international distributors. AGI represents new and established manufacturers seeking to sell products in a variety of international markets including Europe, Asia, Australia, Africa and South America. I knew Ron Mecredy was a nerd ever since we worked together on the same contract back in our Booz Allen days. But, I never knew he was fanboy nerdy until he called me one day

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES The Charlotte Chapter also hosted a great Rat Send-off picnic at Lake Norman, and I was able to catch up with new North Carolina resident Danny Chu. Danny moved to Newton earlier this year and trekked down the lake for the gathering. I have always heard the anecdotes about the Rat whose first visit to VMI was matriculation, and can now say, I have heard a first-hand account.

Danny regaled fellow alumni and perspective Rats with the tale of his Class of 1982: Photo at left: On May 15, 2013, 2nd Lt. Charlie Shutt ’13, right, son trip via Greyhound bus from northern of Col. Dave Shutt, USA (Ret), returned his first salute from Brother Rat Tom McConVirginia to Lexington and the taxi nell ’13, son of Joe McConnell. Photo at right: Dave Shutt, left, gave the Army Oath that deposited him at Jackson Arch of Office to his son, Charlie, who graduated the next day With Distinction, earning a for his first look at the Institute. At bachelor’s degree in biology. Young Shutt is also a Distinguished Military Graduate. that time, English was very much a second language to him, and it to inform me of his great coup. He spent serious was several weeks before he learned that being money to convince Google to select him as a beta Hugh Daughtry called a maggot was not a compliment. Danny tester for Google Glasses. Actually, he is called a continues to serve the Institute as a member of Google Glass Explorer. Ron went up to New York the Foundation Board and encourages you, if you City on the train, met a couple of hundred of his have not already, to order you pictures from our newest and closest friends, got outfitted with his 30th Reunion. His company provides the B2B glasses and started his experience.

Steve Varga is in training to run his fourth maraGreetings from the Old North State! These notes back end to our alumni website, among others, thon. This time it is the Marine Corps Marathon. should find you midway through what we hope is a to do the photograph fulfillment of your order. I Steve and his son will have a race team called successful Keydet football campaign this fall. This love it when we keep it in the family!

This summer was also a special time for several VMI ’82 and they are raising money to give to will be my first attempt at this as I try to fill the big Fisher House, the charity that builds and provides shoes left by Jim Outland. His service to our class of our Brother Rats as they retired after long caa warm and welcoming place where families can and the Institute over the past five-plus years has reers on active duty and the Guard and Reserve. stay and support their loved ones at no cost while been outstanding and much appreciated. His notes Brig. Gen. Rock Donahue retired October 1 but the patient receives specialized medical care at a have always been packed with news and fun to read. a ceremony to honor him was held June 28 at Fort I hope I can carry on. military or VA medical center.

Bragg. During their illustrious career, Rock and As I finalize these notes, we are less than one Bill Jennings and I attended the memorial Nancy experienced 19 moves and five combat service for Rat roomie Chris Simmons’ wife in week from the class of 1983+34 matriculating. Our deployments. You would think that a ceremony Leesburg back in April. It was a very touching class will be represented by five sons: Michael Bel- to honor his service would be a highlight of the service. We did not wish to part company after liveau, William Cornett, David Groseclose, Holmes summer. You would be wrong, as that would be the ceremony, so we decided to grab a bite to eat Laughon and Matthew Outland. These last couple of the birth of their first grandson, “3d LT” Ryan with Bill’s girlfriend, Cynthia. Bill appears to weeks have seen Rat Send-offs at various chapters. Lee Pacheco, Rock’s daughter, Jenna’s, first be enjoying the hell out his middle age. He now Jim Outland checked in to report he and Mat- child. Captains Jenna and Leo Pacheco currently rides a Harley, works when he wants to and enjoys thew attended the Richmond chapter’s event at the serve as Army nurses at Fort Gordon, GA. Rock visiting friends and family.

Virginia War Memorial. The featured speaker was and Nancy’s son, Eric, is at Fort Benning and Shaun Gillilland had an interesting summer the RDC vice president from the class of 2011. Jim daughter-in-law, Claudia, is flying choppers in vacation away from his farm in the Adirondacks. says the best way to describe the presentation was Afghanistan. His twin daughters, Taylor and Shaun supervised the transfer of U.S. Navy patrol to imagine Tuck Masker ’80 or Brent Dunahoe in Morgan, start college this fall. Currently Rock is craft from Norfolk, VA, to Bahrain in the Persian a suit and tie speaking two weeks before matricula- consulting with GE Healthcare but is working the Gulf. He was very happy to have returned home to tion. Jim said by the conclusion of this “shock and long-term retirement plans. It sounds like a busy the coolness of upstate New York on July Fourth. awe” presentation most Rats were slack-jawed time in the Donahue family.

Summer draws to a close, and I have yet to catch and some may have been contemplating a bolt Steve Amato reports an outstanding retirement a fish because I have been too busy with work and for the door. ceremony was held August 11 for Col. Lionel failing in my attempts to corral Mrs. Kause and Lynn Seldon attended the Rat Send-off hosted Urquhart, USMC. Lionel concludes a 30-year the Daughter of Darkness, who will be heading by the Wilmington, NC, chapter. Lynn reports a career in the Marines, which included a combat off to high school in a few short weeks. To keep fine event held at the Cape Fear Club with several deployment to Iraq. Steve, Steve Ross and Scott them both occupied, I acquiesced and got them a Rats-to-be in attendance. Lynn is finalizing his Belliveau attended the ceremony. puppy; a yellow Labrador retriever named Zeus, novel based at VMI, which was recently re-named Col. Jamie MacDonald retired from active duty who is stout of heart and spirit. He keeps them Virginia’s Ring by Pat Conroy. Lynn is using Con- in the U.S. Army on June 19 with an impressive on the go and away from me. That magnificent roy’s long-time cover artist and hopes to have the ceremony at the Pentagon. Attending were Gregg beast is eating me out of house and home and has book out by spring 2014. Lynn is keeping some Brinegar, Tim Craul, Mike Devens, Matt Wardeveloped a fondness for toilet paper. pretty impressive company, and I look forward to ing, Rock Donahue and Mark Sykes.

Bring on the crickets!

Col. Skip Goodwillie retired June 1 after 30 the movie!

’83

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 1983: From left, Gregg Brinegar; T im Craul; Col. Bob James, former VMI tactical officer and associate professor of military science, as well as a friend of the class of ’83; Col. Anthony J. “Jamie” MacDonald, USA; Mike Devens; Matt Waring; and Lee Wimbish ’84 at MacDonald’s retirement ceremony on June 19, 2013.

Class of 1983: From left, Ivan Marcotte, Col. Hugh Daughtry, Brent McManis ’86 and Bill Cornett on June 1, 2013, in Charlotte, North Carolina. The occasion was Daughtry’s retirement from the North Carolina Air National Guard.

years of service in the U.S. Army Reserve. Retiring as colonel was quite an achievement, and Skip says we all owe him, as we would have all bet against that happening! Skip is making the adjustment quite well, purchasing a new home in Goochland, VA. He reports that Staci did such a good job designing the house the construction company hired her. That’s the way to make up that lost income BR! Daughter Ashton graduated from JMU with her masters in teaching and is a sixth grade math teacher in Henrico County, outside of Richmond. Not only is she teaching one of the three Rs, she also serves as boys soccer coach and sixth grade administrator. Son James ’12 graduated last year and launched his iPhone app, Bluebaggs, as the Swiss Army knife for shopping online. Skip says James would not consider changing what could be a risqué name. James pointed out that you would not forget that name.

Smart young man and quite the entrepreneur.

Finally, I retired June 1 after 30 years commissioned service, including 23 years in the North Carolina Air National Guard. Attending the ceremony at the Charlotte Air National Guard Base were Bill Cornett, Ivan and Donna Marcotte, and fellow Col. Brent McManis ’86. Brent’s Dyke was Brother Rat Bob McGehee. Brent currently commands the 145th Combat Operations Group of the North Carolina Air Guard.

As mentioned earlier, Bill Cornett’s son, William, matriculated at VMI this fall. Robin and I recently ran into Bill’s bride, Stephanie, at a local restaurant and she confided to us her concern that young William had not taken his PT preparation seriously this summer. I assured her that he would soon have all the personal trainers he could ever want and would no doubt be in perfect shape in no time after August 17.

Jim Johnston checked in with a great lost class

Class of 1983: From left, Col. Jamie Inman ’86, USA (Ret); Steven Ross; Scott Belliveau; Col. Lionel Urquhart, USMCR (Ret); Col. Steve Amato, USAF (Ret); and John Urquhart ’86 celebrating Urquhart’s retirement at Moody Hall on Aug. 11, 2013.

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ring story. Jim lost his ring in Florida last year, but it seems it was found by someone doing construction at the hotel they had stayed in. The gentleman and his wife were able to track Jim down using Facebook and posted the following on Jim’s page, “I found a ring from the Virginia Military Institute while doing a tear down at the Hilton in Fort Lauderdale. Through a little detective work, we were able to reunite the ring with its owner, a former captain in the Marine Corps living in Virginia Beach. We put it in the mail today. Jim Johnston, you should have it tomorrow afternoon just in time for your 30th Reunion. To that I say OOH RAH!” If only Jim had come to the reunion!

Joe Leonard sent in some exciting career news and a great picture. He is chief of the Planning Department/deputy incident commander for the Coast Guard’s brand new Incident Management Assistance Team, and BR Carl Gibeault is the Situation Unit leader. This is the Coast Guard’s primary deployable command and control team, and they assist in managing and controlling all threats, hazardous incidents and events. The team is commanded by Capt. Anthony Lloyd, USCGA ’88 (son, Steven, is a VMI second classman) and also includes Lt. Cmdr. Kelly Thorkilson, MBC/VWIL ’01. Check out the photo, as Joe is sporting the classic “choker whites.” As Marc Guevremont pointed out, it is amazing what they are doing with polyester these days.

Teddy Gottwald has exciting news on the Lexington lodging front. He and Ann Parker bought the McCampbell Inn and Alexander-Withrow House on Main Street in Lexington. They are renovating the buildings and will reopen sometime in the first half of 2014 with 18 guest rooms and at least one good watering hole. The inns will be renamed to tie in both VMI and W&L communities. Teddy wants to serve a drink called the Block Runner. It will be the closest beer within the bartender’s reach and guaranteed to arrive in your hand in 30 seconds, no questions asked.

Teddy hopes BRs passing through town will stay at the new inn, as it will be close to all the action with minimal distance to walk. Take note, Wilmer Jones!

Mark Benvenuto has published his first fiction novel, Mars Greening. It is hot off the presses and available through Amazon. Mark continues as a professor of chemistry at the University of Detroit Mercy and lives in Royal Oak, MI, with his wife, Marye, and sons, David and Christian.

(Editor’s Note: See the book announcement at the end of the Alumni News section in this Review.)

Keith Sawyer is back in Afghanistan working for Fluor after making the scene at the reunion.

He was celebrating his birthday July 12 at FOB Kunduz and met Capt. Wilson Mustian ’01. No doubt great stories were told and Keith sent in a great picture. (Editor’s Note: See the “In Theater” page near the front of this Review for the photo.)

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1983: Carl Gibeault, left, the situation unit leader, and Cmdr.

Joe Leonard, chief of the planning department and deputy incident commander, at the establishment of the Coast Guard’s newly formed Incident Management Assistance Team on Aug. 1, 2013, in Norfolk, Virginia. This is the Coast Guard’s primary deployable command and control team that assists in managing and controlling all-threat/allhazard incidents and events.

Those of you who made it to reunion enjoyed seeing Jim and Melinda Rice. They were newly arrived stateside after a “hardship” tour in Hawaii.

Jim recently reported in that they have taken up permanent residence in Fredericksburg, and he is looking forward to cheering on the Keydets this fall in Lexington.

The great state of Texas has gained another member of the class of 1983. Brad Norwood has moved from Richmond to San Antonio working for Sky Toxicology. He has already caught up with Brett Allen and Mark Roltsch. Wife Robin is busy getting the house sold in Mechanicsville, but he reports blue skies in Texas.

Al Toler checked in with a marksmanship update.

Al has been a top gun for the Army Reserve for 20 years, “shooting” his way onto the team. He is accomplished with any rifle or pistol and knows how to train the same. This year, at the largest regional in the country – called the warm-up match for the Nationals Matches – Al came in 13th overall and won the Revolver Distinguished match. The following week at the National Pistol Matches at Camp Perry, Ohio, Al came in 15th overall for the three-gun portion, and he and his partner won the two-man National Center Fire Team Championship. Al reminds all that shooting is a perishable skill – range time is critical. I thought that only applied to golf.

An e-mail emerged in my mailbox from Mark Coan, and I immediately had a Rat boxing flashback. Mark may not remember but he and I boxed for grade with Coach Virgets looking on. You will remember that Mark was quite the boxer, and it was some time before I regained the feeling in my jaw,

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but I think I landed a punch. Mark and wife Marga are in Fort Collins, CO. Marga is a veterinarian and they have started an animal rescue business.

They are looking for land for all the animals they have taken in, for as Mark said, “Build it, and they will come.”

For a slow summer, there has been plenty of news. The fall promises great opportunities to see each other in Lexington and on the road, as the Corps travels to take on the Wahoos and a great game in Charleston against El Cid. I look forward to seeing you there or hearing from you.

That is all.

’84

Barry Coceano

I want to kick things off with a save-the-date reminder: our 30th Class Reunion weekend will be April 24-27, 2014. By the time you receive these notes in November, I’m sure you will have received additional information. However, I just wanted to get this up front in our class notes. Now that I have that out of the way, I hope everyone is having an enjoyable summer. Thank you to the guys that sent in updates. We have some updates in this edition from BRs we haven’t heard from in a while. So, without further ado, your class notes.

Mike Montgomery sent me the following: “I hope this note finds you well. A lot has happened in my life since I last saw you at the Institute in 1984. If you are like me, the place is always with you, good and bad. I won’t bore you with my travels since then. Suffice it to say that I have been out in the world making my way and now find myself on a path back to Mother I. Given that two of my brothers followed me into VMI, of which my youngest brother is a professor there now, you would think I would have visited sooner.

The big change for me? Well, my youngest daughter has decided to become a Keydet and will be matriculating this year. I confess I tried to talk her out of it, not because of my experiences, but rather because I wanted to make sure she was doing this for herself and not me. However, inside I could hardly contain the pride that every father feels when one of his children chooses to follow in his footsteps. To be sure, I brought her up for a visit last fall and gave her the nickel tour. Told her it would be tough and Spartan as compared to what a regular school would be like. It didn’t faze her.

It was then I realized she, like me so many years ago, has something she needs to prove to herself.

So, I will be back to Lexington, VA, on August 17 to deliver her to learn some of the best lessons life has to offer. Also, I will be at our 30-year reunion this coming spring. It will be my first one. I am looking forward to it.” Mike, thanks for the note,

and I am happy to hear the wonderful news that your daughter has chosen VMI. Congratulations!

I’m certain she will continue to make you proud.

Also, thanks for stepping back into the mix. Thirty years is a long time. I’m looking forward to seeing you at the 30th.

Jerome Brinkley checked in from Charleston, SC, with this update. “Barry, hope all is well with you and your family. I got the Review today, which was my reminder to send you a note! Stephanie and I took the kids to Playa Del Carmen for a family reunion in July. Those all-inclusive resorts are fantastic. I snorkeled around two hours each day on top of other activities like sailing and enjoying the local shops. On the home front, I won the U.S. Track and Field age division for the 15K race in January and came in second for my age group in the Cooper River Bridge Run in April. Someone has to represent! The kids are in the last weeks of basketball, soccer and summer camps. I am on the board of the Patriots of the Low Country. We create athletic events for wounded warriors, and we are gearing up for our third-annual golf tournament. We just celebrated the one-year anniversary of Brinkley Enterprises, LLC. There is a huge market for older folks in need of assistance with Medicare, Social Security, and retirement planning. See you later, don’t stop moving, Rat!” Jerome, as always, thanks for the note. More importantly, a big thank you goes to you and Stephanie for the work you are doing with the wounded warriors. Your devotion and dedication in helping these great Americans is to be commended and demonstrates what I always knew, that you have a heart of gold. Keep up the great work.

From out in Kuwait, Andy Petretti sent me the following: “Hope all’s well and you’re finding some time to enjoy the summer. I might be able to help you a little bit, but there’s really not much new here. I recently left the Pentagon (I was there for almost two years) where I was the executive officer to the director for Intelligence Community Information Management/Army intelligence chief information officer on the Army G-2 staff. I left because I was selected to command the Base Support Battalion-Kuwait, under ARCENT Area Support Group-Kuwait at Camp Arifjan. I took command on July 9 and will be here until July 2014. My family stayed in Arlington, VA, and hopefully I’ll head back that way next year. Anyway, if anyone is headed to Kuwait in the next 12 months, have them drop me a note. My battalion provides the base support functions (logistics, public works, emergency and installation services) at Camp Arifjan and Camp Buehring. We also have an Army Dive Detachment, Chemical Company, Explosive Ordnance Disposal, Military Police and a Confinement Facility, that support theater operations. Other than that, I hope the next 12 months go by as fast as the last 29 years

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CLASS NOTES have gone!” Andy, thank you for your continued with their shirts off – some kind of a primitive for helping to shape the lives of these high school service and congratulations on your assignment to mating ritual, I guess. Hard to imagine Buzzy or students. JROTC instructors serve as role models command. Hopefully, with a little luck, you will Weird Harold putting up with that. My youngest, and mentors to many; I am certain you find it have to return to D.C. for a meeting the weekend a rising high school senior, is a gymnast and just professionally rewarding and personally fulfilling of the reunion so you can kill two birds with one won a national championship on uneven bars. to know you are having an impact on many young stone and join us for the 30th. Keep up the great She’s getting interest from quite a few schools, men and women trying to find their way. so it’s hard to tell where she’ll end up. I’m still I ran into Chris Parks this past spring in Baltiwork and stay safe!

Jeff Duncan answered my call with more and had the opportunity to chat this update. “I read your e-mail and with him for a few minutes. Chris also thought I would try and help out, so sent me this update: “Greetings from I’m sending along notes from the notCharlottesville! It was great running so-flashy Duncan household. Since into you in Baltimore this spring. I I last wrote, our daughter, Fiona, has was there with my son’s 7th grade completed basic training and AIT as a class trip. The weather was great and reservist. She is also midway through everyone seemed to have a wonderful her psychology degree at Utah State. time at the Inner Harbor. It was a treat Our son, Andy, has graduated high for me to go along as a chaperone for school and is a private, currently the trip. I have been serving as a scout attending basic. He will return this leader for the past 14 years or so here fall to begin studying biology at the in Charlottesville. My son, Tucker, is University of Utah. Nancy has done now 13 and is ready to move up to the quite well as an NP in the neurorank of Star Scout. I have lots of fun science department at the university. working with the scouts, and it has The things they can do to help people presented me with several opportuniwould blow your mind (pun intendties to catch up with classmates and old friends from the VMI. I ran into ed). Over the past year, I completed BR George Foresman at the Klonthe classes for my DBA and am now dike Derby Camporee last year and working my way through the painful then again at another scouting event in process known as the dissertation. I Class of 1984: At VMI’s Commissioning Ceremony in regularly return to that most basic Charlottesville. His son is just a little May 2013, Lt. Col. Ronald McManus, right, had the of questions, ‘what was I thinking?’ bit younger than Tucker. I got George opportunity to commission one of his former students, I am still playing Army as an AGR. to help me out with the crime prevenThomas Wine ’13.

Nancy and I were supposed to PCS tion merit badge when I took a group to Fort Rucker this past summer. I of scouts over to the U.S. Courthouse was going to work MEDEVAC proponency and an Army reservist, now serving as the G-3/5/7 of in Charlottesville as a part of their class. I ran into get a little flying in again. Instead, the Army has the Army Reserve Legal Command. No VMI men BR Bob Doyle at the Moose Camporee down in chosen to extend me in Salt Lake through the fall. in the organization but plenty of Citadel and West Covington earlier this year. This year we went I understand, though I haven’t seen orders, we are Pointers working for me – as it should be! Had a to Camp Shenandoah near Staunton for summer actually going to Vicenza, Italy. More to follow on great visit with Chris Busse and his family during camp. There I ran into Joe Bouchelle ’82 and his that … So, if you find yourself in Northern Italy their recent visit to Atlanta. His daughter, who son. Right after summer camp, I had surgery on sometime next year, look me up. That’s about it for practices law in Atlanta and worked for Johnny my left foot. I had three bones fused together to now. Take care.” Jeff, let’s see … Fort Rucker or Mitchell during law school, is delightful and do- correct some damage that occurred a few years Vicenza … Vicenza wins in my book! Thank you, ing very well. Take care.” Bill, congrats to your back. I will be out of service for the next few too, for your continued Army service. Hopefully, daughter winning the national championship … months while it mends. Crutches are a real pain the next assignment will get you that desired time are the Olympic Games on the horizon? Also, I in the armpits! Work with the U.S. Marshals behind the stick in the cockpit. too agree the Citadel did have some strange and continues to be very interesting. I have been in the Michael Grafton sent the following: “Still in unusual practices. I guess if you don’t have Zoll- service now for over 20 years. I may be retiring in Afghanistan working for the JPO MRAP program. man’s parties for social interaction then your next the next several months. I hope to start my own Dunno when it will end …” Mike, thanks for the best bet is to run around with your shirt off in an company teaching personal security. There seems note. Wish I could help you with the answer to attempt to meet the ladies. to be a real need for it these days. Wish me luck. the end-state but I will have to refer to President Phil Corbo sent this update: “Greetings from I hope to get back over to the Institute sometime Obama for that answer. Stay safe!

Henry County, VA. Not much is going on. I work this fall. I will be coming back over for our anBill Dyer checked-in with the following: for Henry County Public Schools as a JROTC nual Law Enforcement Information seminar. We “Our oldest, Katherine, starts at the College of instructor at Magna Vista High School. I run into have had great success with this over the past 13 Charleston this year, so I’m looking forward Lt. Col. David King ’71 quite frequently. He is years. Lots of interest from the cadets and from to catching up with Charleston residents Mike the senior Army instructor at Tunstall High School the alumni who come back to talk about their Efremov and Jerome Brinkley during our visits. in neighboring Pittsylvania County, and his wife jobs.” Chris, thanks for the note and great seeing I’ve already given her the ‘beware of guys from works at Bassett High School in Henry County.” you this past spring. Hope the foot mends well military schools’ lecture, but I’m not sure it was Phil, thanks for the note. Can you name the Wil- and you are able to get back out camping quickly. effective. From what I’ve heard, Citadel cadets liam Shakespeare play with the following line: Carl Romano sent the following from his home in run though the College of Charleston campus “Men of few words are the best men.” Thanks Florida: “Hey Barry, I hope this e-mail finds you

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 1984: Chris Parks and Joe Bouchelle ’82 with their sons at Camp Shenandoah near Staunton, Virginia. well. First of all, I was quite saddened at the loss of our BR, Richard Baker. We had some fun times together back at the ‘I.’ I will always remember his friendship and his great sense of humor. My thoughts and prayers are with Richard’s family.

Rest in peace, Richard. In April, I lost my father, Captain C. Victor Romano, M.D., USN (Ret.).

My father loved VMI and everything its stands for. He was part of the ‘greatest generation,’ and his kids were fortunate that he was able to instill in them the virtues of his generation. My wife and I are still living in Jupiter, FL, with our two teenage girls. Both of our girls are honor students (thanks to their mother) and are active in volleyball. My eldest is on her high school cross-county team (and has even mentioned something about the lacrosse team). As for me, I am still a partner in the law firm of Broad and Cassel in West Palm Beach. I try to surf wherever I can (only this time on a longboard), and I am a coach for the Jupiter-Tequesta Athletic League High School Coed Volleyball League. If anyone wants to contact me, I am on LinkedIn and you can also e-mail me at cromano@broadandcassel. com.” Carl, great update. Our condolences on the loss of your father; I am certain he fit the mold of the greatest generation. As for the surfing …

Cowabunga, Bro! I run into RG McManus quite often in Lexington, and as promised, he sent me the following: “Hey Barry, I hope your summer is going well. I have enclosed a picture from VMI’s Commissioning Ceremony in May. I had the opportunity to commission one of my former students, Thomas Wine ’13. Thomas was the first student I recommended for VMI since doing the JROTC job. It

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was a great experience to be back at the ‘I’ for this ceremony. I have three former students who will be thirds this year and two students who will be Rats; one of them is my daughter, Ashley. She attended STP, and we ran into Ty Dawson and his family; one of my daughter’s roommates was Virginia Montgomery, Monty Montgomery’s daughter. It seems it really is a small world. Look us up during the home football games. We’ll be on the Parade Ground with our tent set up, ready to eat.” RG, it is always good running into you, and I am certain I will see you in the fall. Get the grill ready for those tailgaters!

I was forwarded the following article about BR David Hensel, which was printed in the USCG Times: “A Jacksonville, FL, man and member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary was awarded a Coast Guard Auxiliary Commendation Medal Saturday morning for saving a woman’s life during a St. Patrick’s Day parade in St. Augustine, FL. Before the ceremony, David Hensel was reunited with Sherry Hartman, of St. Augustine, for the first time since he performed CPR on her March 9, 2013, after she experienced complete heart failure, pneumonia symptoms and blood poisoning.

Hensel was with three other Auxiliary members who were preparing to represent the Coast Guard in the parade when he noticed Hartman had collapsed, so he leapt into action and began performing CPR on her while instructing others to get help. He performed CPR for more than 13 minutes before EMTs arrived. Hartman was taken to a local hospital for treatment, where she remained in a coma for the next six days before recovering. During the ceremony, Hartman said, with teary eyes, she couldn’t find the words to

express her gratitude for what Hensel did for her, but she would be eternally grateful. A firefighter paramedic with the Seminole County Fire Department for 20 years before retiring in 2006, Hartman said she never expected to be on the receiving end of EMT care. She added that she hopes her story will show others the importance of knowing how to perform CPR. The Coast Guard Auxiliary is the service’s volunteer component, and its members assist with safety and security patrols, search and rescue, mass casualty and disasters, pollution response and patrols, homeland security, recreational boating safety, commercial fishing and vessel exams, platforms for boarding parties and recruiting, among other duties.” David, awesome article! Your actions were more than commendable … they were truly a lifesaving event.

Tom Anthony sent this update after a trip to visit Dan Gettings. “I visited Dan in late June in Colorado Springs, CO, to meet his wife, Ximena, and their new child, Daniel Ramon, born May 12, 2013. Unfortunately, immigration paperwork hassles kept his wife and child in Peru during my trip. Dan was still the gracious host and kept me busy through Independence Day, as we visited the Colorado Springs/Denver area. Very beautiful country and we even managed to fast hike up the Manitou Incline for morning PT. No small feat for two old-timers! Dan is working at NORTHCOM where he is set to retire as Army colonel next summer. He is ‘looking forward’ to the dual challenges of seeking a new career as well as being an active father for his new son. In fact, he mentioned his role model Col. Roland Tiso ’73 as somebody who made a military-civilian transition at CENTCOM in similar circumstances a few years ago. Lastly, we were sad to miss BR Bart Combs during my trip, who also lives in the Colorado Springs area. But Bart was kind enough to let us know he was ‘suffering’ on a vacation to Hawaii!” Tom, as always, thanks for keeping me in the loop on your travels and meetings with BRs. Well, until next time, goodnight Roger Hall, Dan Feller, Barry Miller and Kevin Taliaferro, wherever you guys are. Again, save the date: April 24-27, 2014 … 30th Reunion Weekend!

’85

Matt Daniel

In three short days, it will be the 31st anniversary of our Matriculation Day at the Institute. Aug. 18, 1982, was a day that changed my life – how about you? Of course, it is August and time for another quarterly update.

If the last edition was as fleeting as cadet captain stripes on Rick Chambers’ coatee, then this edition will be as fast as Matt Anderson volunteering

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CLASS NOTES for a PT detail. After Matt got a number one for failure to invite Col. Minnix to a Mallory Hall beer fest, where the good colonel happened upon the festivities one evening and was so incensed at not being invited, he boned Matt and Sean Poremba for their indiscretion. I guess BR Anderson served the four months, but he was done with the PTs in about two to three weeks as he hustled after every PT detail available. Anything beats walking with a rifle, right Matt?

I believe we all agree that Marty Mason has always been a man to do things with style; turning 50 allowed him to take it up a notch. BR Mason planned a birthday party with a surprise twist.

After the band played the first set, he called up the appropriate people along with his girlfriend, Jane, and they got married on the spot. It was all pre-planned of course, but a surprise to 86 percent of the party guests. Congratulations, Marty and Jane – look forward to meeting Jane and welcoming her to the class of ’86 with a game of beer pong. Gordon White, you’re on notice!

The excuse of “too busy” to check in won’t wash. To wit: BR Thuan Tran had a big month of May 2013. First, his daughter graduated from JMU and then his wife graduated with a master’s degree from New England College in New Hampshire. Congratulations to both graduates as well as to BR Tran. For the record, Mrs. Tran looks like she could very well be Thuan’s daughter, and BR Tran himself looks like he could be Grandpa Tran! Just kidding of course. Congrats to Thuan on the highly educated ladies in his life and for upholding the ’86 tradition of ‘marrying up.’

My old roomie, Rob Meador, checked in from

Class of 1985: Steve Barcik, left, and Mike Johnson in Austin, Texas. the West Coast of Florida. He and his Ring Figure date/bride, Kit, are almost empty nesters. Their oldest son, Lee, is living and working in San Diego while daughters Katy and Sara are finished with two years of college in Miami. What is it with the Meadors and the beach? All three kids are in, or planning to be in, the hospitality industry – hotel management, culinary degrees and wedding planners. They should be able to host a mega party for their old dad and his BRs sometime!

In other former-townie news, Todd McCullough has been burning the candle at both

ends with all three of his boys in college at one time. BR McCullough got a raise in that his oldest son graduated this year, and Todd is only paying two tuitions now. Jeff Smiley is still rabble-rousing and bare-knuckling it on Facebook with any and all comers. Let’s all make a plan to just give Kathy Smiley a hug when we see her – dang what that woman has to put up with on a daily basis!

And finally, our favorite non-calculus-computing townie, our beloved Cadet Hatchet, is alive and well in San Antonio, Texas.

Speaking of San Antonio, it was the site of a recent lunch with Steve Gray and Michael Lakos. Both are living in the area, and Michael said they were trying to incorporate a luncheon with John Ax and Glen ‘Bigfoot’ Ralston. I think Axman was on vacation, and we call BR Ralston ‘Bigfoot’ because there is no real data to prove his existence – he hasn’t been seen or captured on film even in nearly 27 years! Maybe we should call the Animal Planet network and see if they will do an episode of “Finding Bigfoot” in San Antonio with the idea of finding Glen Ralston? And, should we take this opportunity to comment that it is unlike Axman or Ralston to miss a meal? Maybe that will provoke some return fire.

Speaking of townies, by now Col. James P. Inman is at his post on Post as the new chief of staff at VMI. One of his first official acts was to host Henry Tabur for an afternoon visit when the latter visited Lexington over the summer.

We didn’t need Edward Snowden; it was posted on that 21st century oracle of wisdom known as Facebook. Also, paying local taxes in Lexington as well as occasionally sparring with BR Smiley

Class of 1985: W.G. Rowlett picking up his ball from the rough during the Golf Safari.

Class of 1985: At the Annual Charlie Company Golf Safari were, from left, front row, Steve Wynn, W.G. Rowlett, Matt Hamilton, Russ Orrison, Steve Hagan, Rich Williams, Jeff Fraser, Greg Enterline and Jake Spivey. Row 2: Ralph Tremaglio, Jim Spellman, John Jordan, Kerry Kirk, Pat Maguire, Owen McIntyre, George Halages, Palmer Hamilton, Bill Wieners, Bill Tilling, Hugh Hill, Joe Irby, Rob McIntire and Chris Welch. Row 3: Tom Greenspon, Mike Johnson, Neb Neblett, Mark Bornhorst, Kevin Jenkins, Barry Brockway, Shane Sullivan, Pat Toomey, PNS, VMI NROTC (who was Irby’s guest for lunch), Dave Tingley, Jeff Norris, Father Fimian, Neil Lowenstein and Scott Vaughn.

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on the Web is, of course, Chuck Steenburgh.

Not quite back to Lexington, but another BR who is happy to have relocated back to Virginia is Joe DeKeyrel, who is now living in the Sterling/Ashburn area of northern Virginia. That is in Loudoun County adjacent to Dulles Airport, which is convenient because Joe seems to be flying somewhere almost weekly with his job.

According to Facebook, he did manage to stick

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CLASS NOTES around long enough to outfit a home theater system that sounded like it would be awesome.

(Joe, we’ll need your street address so we can find your house on Super Bowl Sunday.) Now that he is back within striking distance, he will probably find the time to visit Col. Inman sometime this fall. Good to have you back in Virginia, Joe! El Presidente, Tim Keilty, checked in with a great story of redemption. It seems that ol’ TK took his youngest son, Reilly, to Tijuana, Mexico.

I know you’re all thinking, “what a great dad!”

Well, he is, but it’s not what you think. They were on a mission trip with an organization called Companies with a Mission (CWAM). In the days of yore, it would have been BR Keilty with his ever-faithful companions, Jim Frazier, Dan Monahan and Natty Bo. Maybe they would have borrowed Axman’s Pontiac that held the 29 cases of liquid refreshment? (I still love that story!) This mission could probably best be characterized as a sort of international Habitat for Humanity as the team consisted of 20 volunteers from the U.S., Canada and Germany. The Mexican family in need of a new home consisted of a single mom and her four daughters (who worked side-by-side with the mission team), all of whom slept on one mattress on the dirt floor. (The father had passed away in a work accident.) The original home had a dirt floor, no electricity, no running water, a tarp for half the roof and a shower curtain for the front door. The new house was about 300 square feet with a concrete floor, drywall interior and a shingled roof. They also now have electricity.

Running water doesn’t exist in the area where they live so that was not an option. They also took the family shopping for new shoes, clothes, etc. The girls said they had never had a new pair of shoes, and most of the time the shoes they wear come from the local dump and rarely match. BR Keilty says that he thinks he and his son got more out of the experience than the family whose living conditions were so radically improved. Tim’s quote was, “It was an incredible experience that I would recommend to anyone.” BR Keilty also concluded his note with the comment that in their spare time they looked all over Mexico and didn’t find Jim Jenkins there, either. Well done, TK. Great service to humanity and a great experience/ example for your son.

Speaking of Jim Jenkins, we almost made it out of here without mentioning him. There is some cock-and-bull story floating around that he will pay a visit on Post in late August. Who knows, maybe he’ll bring Jim Urie and Roman Malavet with him? Stay tuned for more details in a future edition.

Speaking of retuning to Post, I’m pretty sure we still have a Cadet Anderson (son of Bill), a Cadet Whiteman (son of Eric), a Cadet Morgan (son of Jeff) and a Cadet Corwin (son of Mike) in the Corps. If you happen to be in Lexington,

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stop in and say hello to them. In addition to Col. Inman as the new chief of staff, there is also a Rat Inman who will matriculate with the mass of ’86+31 – that is if I did my Cadet Hatchett math correctly. And the repeated use of the phrase “son-of ____” makes me think of … well, that conversation could go downhill fast, and this is a family publication, so let’s just bring this madness to a close for this quarter. As the hero of Hood College, Dave Grimm, would say, “I’m just sayin.’” Take care, BRs.

’87

Gerry Tertychny

Brother Rats, Drew Campi checked in recently from New Jersey. Drew has just been promoted to be the assistant special agent in charge of the Newark Division of the FBI. He, Ken Devero and Stu Halasz got together back in April for a minireunion at Stu’s place in Pennsylvania. Drew’s oldest son is just beginning his junior year at West Point while his other two boys are in high school. Not sure where they will end up yet – maybe VMI? Lots of activity from our BRs serving in the U.S. Marine Corps. First, several of us were on hand to see Dave Furness promoted to brigadier general by Gen. James F. Amos, the commandant of the Marine Corps. Attending the ceremony on June 27 at the U.S. Marine Corps Museum, Quantico, VA, were: Chip Bierman, Jon Sachrison, Mike Hooper, Macon Snowden and Andy Zolper, as well as Col. David Harbach ’61, USA (Ret). Upon

his promotion, Dave will continue his duties in Washington as the legislative assistant to the commandant of the Marine Corps, while ensuring support for the commandant’s legislative priorities and requirements and serving as his representative to both the U.S. Senate and the U.S House of Representatives.

A couple of weeks later, on July 10, we got to watch the commandant promote Chip Bierman to brigadier general in a ceremony at the Marine Corps barracks, 8th and I, Washington, D.C. On hand for the ceremony were: Jon Sachrison, Bill Berneski, Dave Furness, Doug Flynn and Matt Howard. After his promotion, Chip and his family moved from D.C. where he was serving as the military secretary to the commandant of the Marine Corps, to California where he assumed duties as the commanding general, Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego and Western Recruiting Region.

On August 14, I was able to see James Bright assume command of the Marine Corps Security Force Regiment, Naval Weapons Station Yorktown, VA. James and his family recently moved to the Yorktown area from Camp Lejeune, NC, where he served as the chief of staff, II Marine Expeditionary Force, including a deployment to Afghanistan from June 2012 to July 2013 with II Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward). James’s regiment includes Security Force Battalions at Bangor, Washington, and King’s Bay, GA, as well as multiple fleet antiterrorism security teams deployed throughout the United States and around the world.

In other news, my roommate, Gray Wooten, recently took over as the senior naval science instructor of the Navy Junior ROTC unit at Tabb High School in Yorktown, VA. In addition, Gray and Diana’s son, Connor, matriculated at VMI

Class of 1987: From left, Chip Bierman; Andy Zolper; Dave Harbach ’61; Brig.

Gen. David Furness, USMC; Mike Hooper; Macon Snowden; Gerry Tertychny; and Jon Sachrison at Furness’ promotion.

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’89 Class of 1987: Room 430 Rat roommates, from left, Brig. Gen. Chip Bierman, USMC; Gerry Tertychny; and Bill Berneski at Bierman’s promotion on July 10, 2013.

Class of 1987: Col. James Bright, USMC, and his family when he assumed command on Aug. 14, 2013. on August 17, 30 years to the day after Gray and the rest of us signed the matriculation book.

Jack McCarthy and John Phillips have sons starting out as Rats, and Ashley Abernathy also dropped off his nephew to begin the VMI experience. Gray, Jack, John and Ashley all got together on Bill Wanovich’s patio to drink some beers and listen to the screaming coming from the Barracks. So, the class of 1987 is well represented, through some descendants in the class of 1987+30. The madness continues.

Congratulations again to Dave, Chip, James, Gray and Drew on your impressive accomplishments and many thanks to you and your families for your dedication and continued service to our country!

Still haven’t gotten over to see Neal Robinson. Scott Jones, where are you? Please check in.

In the spirit, Gerry

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Nathaniel L. Cross

Gents, I can tell it is the depths of the summer months as the communications have been limited.

As you read this we are only a couple of weeks from Thanksgiving. Just to give you perspective, I’m watching my not-too-happy teenage son cut the grass after being forced out of bed around 10:30 a.m. Way too early for him! Anyway, those of you with teenagers can relate. To those who have not yet reached that age … just something to look forward to!

Speaking of looking forward, how about Sept.

12-14, 2014? We are now less than a year out which means you need to have that weekend blocked out. I’m not sure how much you will have received regarding plans by November, but be sure that we are working on it. I do know that Ashley Fairchild and the Reunion Campaign Committee have already met. They will be responsible for helping us raise our financial gift, as well as where we will designate those funds.

There are two pictures with this article. One was sent in by Rob White and shows him, James Black and Paul Mele at the U.S. Army War College. Great picture, guys, and thanks for sharing.

Rob added that he, Simone and the kids are heading off to Ankara, Turkey, to take a position in the Office of Defense Cooperation. You guys be safe and send us some pictures of the family while you are there. Brief side bar while I’m talking about the war college, it is official that Mitch Fridley is there this year as a resident student.

Back to pictures, how about Billy Miller and Buddy Schmeling chilling at Peter Lugar’s steak house in Brooklyn? I’m now hoping that Buddy can hook us up with some steaks for the reunion.

What do you think, Buddy?

Class of 1989: From left, Cmdr.

James Black, USN; Col. Paul Mele, USA; and Col. Rob White, USA, at the U.S. Army War College on May 11, 2013.

Not sure how it happened, but Mitch sent me an update on a couple of guys, and I will share those now. From Paul Pardew: “Currently still in Italy.

Got one more year and Josh is a senior. Like his father, he is a scatterbrain about what to do, so hopefully he figures it out in the next 12 months.

Kelly and the rest are doing great, enjoying their summer.” I have seen some of the pictures that Kelly has posted on Facebook, and it looks like the Pardew clan is getting to see a lot of Europe.

You guys keep having fun, and we’ll see you next summer back in the good old U.S.A. From Wayne Jones: “Checked out of Parris Island on a Friday and into the Office of Legislative Affairs on Monday. Serving as the director of the Senate liaison for the Marine Corps and will be working for Brig. Gen. Dave Furness ’87. My, how things have changed. Family is good, don’t know where we are going to live yet. Wearing a suit four days a week and actually look forward to Fridays, when I get to wear my service uniform.

Haven’t ridden in a while – brought my bikes but living in Bethesda with Christine’s relatives until we figure it all out. Nate graduates next year and will go to West Point. He was recruited to play lacrosse. Got an Army dog on my hands, but I

Class of 1989: Over the 2013 July 4th weekend, the Billy Miller family visited with Buddy Schmeling. Above, the group is relaxing at Peter Lugar’s Steakhouse in Brooklyn, New York, where Schmeling is the general manager. USA Today recently named his restaurant the best steak house in the country.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES am proud of him. Hope the Army unjacks their uniforms before he gets commissioned. He wants to be a Marine still, but now thinks it would be cool to go into the 82d and then go to a Ranger Battalion. All good.” Wayne, I hope when you make that final move you can make it a little farther south and back to Virginia. However, I’m going to have to say something, as someone who has spent some time in the maroon beret of a free world paratrooper. However, I will save it for a face-to-face to spare you any shame in front of your BRs. Seriously though, way to go, Nate!

Last but not least, Pete Lampman is the new head football coach at Central High in King and Queen County. Pete, that is great news and best of luck to you and your team this season. I’ll keep an eye out for you during Friday night highlights on Channel 6!

’90

Robert Clark

I hope everyone had a wonderful summer 2013!

Here in Minnesota we cherish them, and the Clarks were fortunate to have another great one here on one of our many lakes. Would love to host anyone in the class, so give me a call if you’re in the area.

I was pleased to hear from a number of new BRs who have not checked in for a while.

Glenn Thompson wrote from Richmond with a great update on his family and travels.

Glenn is with W.M. Jordan in Richmond, a commercial construction company based in Newport News, and recently took over business development and marketing for the company. He currently works all over Virginia and North Carolina doing a lot of higher education construction work. He indicated that the Institute’s various renovation projects are right up his alley, and he’s hoping to land one of them. Glenn has the privilege of working with Bill Madison, who is currently running several projects for WMJ, including a major renovation for JMU. Around Richmond, Glenn sees a lot of Sam Stocks through the contracting world and recently ran into Buddy Garbett, who is still in medical sales and owns a dumpster business.

Glenn and his wife, Kim, recently celebrated 20 years of marriage (how many of us are approaching or surpassed that number?) and are the proud parents of Olivia, 15, and Emma, 11.

The Thompsons recently vacationed in San Diego and spent several days with “Captain” Pete Mantz and his family. Pete is the XO on the U.S.S. Essex amphibious carrier, which is in dry dock undergoing a major refit. He will take over as CO for the next cruise and is very excited about the ship and his role.

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According to Glenn, Pete, his wife, Joanne, and their two girls were the ultimate tour guides in San Diego!

Hunter Trumbo checked in with the run-down on a recent “mini-reunion.” Turns out that on just a couple of days’ notice John Lanzillotta held an impromptu gathering at his house that netted a few of our BRs. Mike Trahar, Chuck Ellis, Mike Mullori, Chris Schinstock, John Hahn and Hunter connected for some ribs and PBR. Hunter indicated that they worked hard to piece together a number of VMI memories, with a little embellishment where things are starting to get fuzzy, and talked about how so many of our classmates are doing well in the service (like Ellis and Hahn). Chuck Ellis is detailed to the Veteran’s Administration, helping them get a handle on their backlog, and John Hahn is working in the USCG office that helps to manage disaster relief funds.

Three of the seven were attorneys, and as Hunter pointed out, “all have full heads of hair … they must be living right!” John Lanzilotta recently joined a federal contracting conglomerate, helping them manage a few dozen companies, and Hunter is doing similar work supporting DHS and trying to get down to Lexington more frequently.

Bryan Haslam wrote to update us on his nursing career. He is now a certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) working near Asheville, NC, and absolutely loves his job. He is pursuing a Doctorate of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree, which is on par with a Ph.D., but clinically focused rather than research focused.

Bryan’s other big news is regarding his nephew, Wynn Faulkner Haslam, who matriculated at VMI in August. Wynn will continue the Haslam family legacy that includes his great grandfather, J.B. Haslam ’925; grandfather, J.B. Haslam ’61; father; M.H. Haslam, ’91; uncle, J.B. Haslam ’90; plus another uncle, C.F. Bryan ’69; and a cousin, C.F. Bryan ’00.

How awesome is that pedigree?

Brian Woodford e-mailed me a brief note on his status. Brian deployed last year to Kuwait and since returning, he has been promoted to lieutenant colonel and selected for battalion command.

In addition, Brian is part owner of Sumdat Farm Market and Wine Shop located in downtown Roanoke, VA. He has free wine tastings every Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., and he’s happy to host anyone from the VMI family. You can find the market on Facebook!

Congratulations on your promotion, Brian!

It was great to hear from Chuck Greene. He is still living in Fredericksburg, VA, and works as an engineer with the Missile Defense Agency.

Chuck is grateful to have survived the various government furloughs and reductions over the past several months and is hoping that continues.

Chuck got together with Jeff Crist and Tim McLaughlin last month, and they went peach

picking and beer drinking with their wives and kids. His oldest son, Trevor, is going to be a high school junior this year, and Chuck is starting to nudge him towards you know where.

Bill Gaspar sent a great update on his whereabouts. He is a senior structural engineer with Moseley Architects and the president of the Virginia chapter of the American Institute of Concrete. Bill also runs into Sam Stocks and other VMI graduates who are working in the construction biz. Bill has been hiring some VMI graduates to fill the ranks of his company as well.

Paul Hartigan wrote to pass along that he is doing well and recently became the training officer/volunteer coordinator for the Larkspur Fire District in Colorado. The district has three stations with 24 paid firefighters and 34 volunteers that he leads in professional development, education and training. He loves the new position and is hard at work developing all types of new training programs to improve knowledge and safety. Paul and his wife, Lois, are loving life in Castle Pines.

Mark Hennigan also checked in. I had reported in previous notes of Brian Albro’s retirement from the Navy, and Mark passes along that he’s not far from Brian in Washington, who is now with the Department of the Navy as a civilian working on safety issues.

Tim Bosetti also checked in from the Air War College at Maxwell AFB, Alabama, where he is a student. Tom Pugh is his classmate.

And finally, Matt Schwarzmann was kind enough to send along a note pointing out the great representation our class has in the VMI Alumni Association. In fact, our class has the most representation on the VMIAA Board of Directors.

Those BRs are: Sam Stocks representing Region XII, Central Virginia; Richard Duke representing Region XIII, Rappahannock; and Matthew Hemenez is a director at large.

Appreciate all of the updates, guys – keep them coming!

’91

George Petty III

I was in Stuarts Draft at the Little Debbie’s back in July where Wacky Davis tapped me on the shoulder. He was picking up some budget snacks to take over to a West Virginia Boy Scout event. I enticed Wacky over to the house for a short visit.

We made some plans to get together during the week one day soon, since he works only a few miles from the VA in Richmond.

William Coleman sent word of a new addition to his family. William Mike was born on May 29, 2013. He joins mother, Cheryl, and sister, Clare, in Goochland, VA.

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CLASS NOTES set. The neighbors said it took one Wahoo and two Hokies two weekends to erect the set. Holy smokes. I thought that a bit excessive. Turns out it was for a couple Keydets. The set was erected in less than one weekend with the able help of Tom. Thanks, BR! Wacky was going to help also but had conflicting needs at the last moment. His good-natured laughs were missed.

Adam Gregory

Class of 1991: Clare Coleman, daughter of William and Cheryl, with her new baby brother, William Mike, born May 29, 2013, in Goochland, Virginia.

Don and Rebekah Cribbs attended an alumni event in Alexandria with the Potomac River Chapter. Don reports it was a nice affair, but he was the only 1991 alum there. Don also now joins the ranks of BRs sporting an eagle on his color.

BZ to our newest USN captain.

Thomas Heffern brought his four sons over to Waynesboro for a Saturday to help erect one of those complicated play sets from Costco. That thing had been taking up space in the garage for too long. I had asked him over as a challenge.

My neighbors sent four daughters to VPI and are huge supporters of Blacksburg, since that is where most of their money has gone. One of said daughters married a UVa guy who is currently a M.D. in the Navy. Turns out this particular daughter and son-in-law had purchased the same play

’92

Andy Tate

Gentlemen, It’s mid-August as I write and hard to believe how quickly time flies: we matriculated 25 years ago. Looking back, it’s like they say, I wouldn’t give up the VMI experience for a million dollars, and wouldn’t go back for 10 million. Here are some updates from your BRs: Lt. Col. Clint Seybold, currently stationed at Fort Bragg, NC, updates that he was engaged last December to Ms. Wendy Tieu, his date at our 20th Class Reunion. Wendy is the center administrator at the California Center for Population Research at UCLA (her alma mater). They will have a tea ceremony in Los Angeles on Saturday, September 7, and the church service in Mt. Carmel on Saturday, September 14. Congratulations, Clint!

Jeff Van Sanford writes that he retired from

Class of 1991: At the Waynesboro, Virginia, home of George Petty III in August 2013 were, from left, Daniel, Joe and Caleb Heffern; Petty; and Tom and Noah Heffern. Seated in the swings were Carmen and Emmett Petty.

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Class of 1992: Philip Moore with his son, Benton, age 15, while on a hiking trek at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico, July 2013.

Class of 1992: Jeff Van Sanford hiked up Pikes Peak, elevation 14,110 feet, near Colorado Springs in July 2013.

Class of 1992: Jay King, Bryan Saunders, Coach Bozeman and Rich Falcone at The Greenbrier.

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 1992: Dan Gaskell, Mike Haverty, Jon Lester, Chris Bergen and Mike Starling at Gordon Biersch Brewery Restaurant in Virginia Beach, Virginia, to celebrate New Market Day on May 15, 2013. the Air Force after 20 years of service and then hiked up Pikes Peak (elevation: 14,110 feet) near Colorado Springs in July.

Jay King, Bryan Saunders and Rich Falcone met their VMI cross country and track coach, Mike Bozeman, at The Greenbrier this summer.

“What we didn’t know at the time,” Bryan writes, “is that Neil Hennigan was there at the same time on detail but couldn’t arrange a meet up.”

Mike Starling posts that he “ran into James Cherry early morning Saturday in Chicago O’Hare Airport as I had a quick trip out to San Fran. He is coming to Tidewater on Marine assignment from Okinawa. Welcome, BR! We need a ’92 Tidewater event. Plenty of us here.”

Thanks for the submissions. Membership on our class Facebook page is now over half our graduating class, so consider joining if you haven’t already. It’s a great way to stay connected.

Best regards, Adam

’93

Jim Sharp

First of all, thanks to Bill Cox for the past five years of hard work. You did a great job with the recent reunion. I am looking forward to serving you guys and appreciate the great response for these sets of notes. I liked the late night picture from Dave Youngclaus and Sean Farley from a bar in Boston. Remember guys, that taking pictures after midnight can get you in trouble.

The following notes are from Matt Williams, whom I enjoyed catching up with at the reunion.

The last few months I have talked with several

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BRs; I will focus on the ones who didn’t make it to the reunion.

Brian Darin is a Foreign Service officer (FSO) for the State Department. I had coffee with him last month after he finished his Japanese language training. He is on his way to serve as the political/economics chief in the U.S. consulate general in Osaka, Japan. Brian has served for the State Department in Mongolia, Belize, Hong Kong and Main State HQ. He is married and has kids (two, I think). Although his lacrosse days are long over, he still plays hockey in an adult league in northern Virginia.

Brandon Freel lives in Elkton, MD, and is in the commercial real estate development business. He is married and has three children. Corky Oldfield still serves in the Prince George’s Police Department in Maryland; he served several years in their Special Operations Division as a SWAT team member. Corky recently transferred back to street duty at National Harbor so he could spend more time with his family. He is also captain in the MD National Guard; he has deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Brandon, Corky and I took in an Orioles game at Camden Yards in early August.

Jim Romasz is a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Air Force and lives in Winchester, VA. He just finished language training in preparation for a 10-month tour in Afghanistan. Jim departs in September and will mentor an Afghan government ministry.

Kevin Morris recently moved from Miami to the NOMA district in Washington D.C. He is married and has a dog. He and I took in a Scott Weiland concert in March at the Howard Theater in D.C. I talk regularly with Freel, Oldfield, Romasz, Brian Piccioni, Raleigh Trumbo, Tim Ervin, Kevin Roop and Sean Farley. We (except Romasz

Class of 1993: From left, Vic Tran; linguist Ajmal Khan; Abdul Rasheed; Maj. Mohammad Hakim, Investigative/Surveillance Unit Kabul; and Tran’s sidekick, Arl Farris (California PD), in Kabul, Afghanistan. due to his deployment) plan to return to VMI this fall for a home football game.

I am doing fine, although I had reconstructive shoulder surgery in May. I am healing slowly but should regain complete range of motion eventually. I live in Capitol Hill and work as a Department of Defense liaison officer at the State Department.

Mike Wysong checked in. He is currently the CEO for CARE Pharmacies. He said they were named the sixth, fastest-growing retailer in the country for 2012 and the fastest-growing drug chain the last two years running. He is currently living in Bel Air, MD, with his seven kids (yes, seven) and lovely wife.

Paul Meadows chimed in as well. “Very busy growing a company in Lynchburg. Now up to a dozen employees and hoping to hire two or three more before the end of the year. Serving customers from Farmville down to Abingdon, VA. Working about 500 hours a week … ok, not that many, but seems like it. I did get a week to take our family to Corolla, NC, to spend a week at the beach with Joe Buchanan, Jamie Shiflett, Craig Currie, Matt Gill and all of their families. Big house, lots of kids and a good time! Planning for our annual bow-hunting trip in October with Craig Currie and hopefully Dave Stokes. Should be fun. Keeping in touch with Wes Bosiger and his family. We all need to keep his wife in our prayers. She’s not been well, but she’s as tough as they get, and we are looking forward to her good health again.”

Dom Ford wrote that he is still living in the San Diego area, currently working as the deputy G-6 for I MEF in Camp Pendleton. This December, he will be taking command of Marine Wing Communications Squadron 38 (MWCS-38) which is down in Miramar. Liz and the kids are excited about the upcoming change, although

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CLASS NOTES probably not too thrilled about the hours that he will be working. Thanks for writing in Don. Sills O’Keefe dropped the following note.

“My wife, Adele, gave birth to our son, John Frank “Jack” O’Keefe, on Aug. 19, 2011. Ever since, he has been growing like crazy and he is now almost two, but looks like he is almost three. The three of us are still here in Norfolk.

I’m about to start my 16th year teaching middle schoolers at Norfolk Academy, and Adele is about to leave her job at Eastern Virginia Medical School. She will be opening her own therapeutic education consulting business.

We saw Brian Melvin and his family every now and then while he was based at the Coast Guard base in Portsmouth. They left early in the summer for Maryland. I wish I could write more but that’s about all I’ve got. And the little guy just woke up from his nap. Sorry I missed everyone at the 20th. I will be sure to make it to the 25th.”

Charles A. Leggett sent a good note and updated us on his good work with veterans. There was a good write-up on his group in the last Alumni Review. “On a very personal note, my wife and I just found out that we are expecting our third child, who should make his or her arrival around the middle of February 2014. I have started to help vets and their families overcome emotional, mental and psychological injuries – the unseen wounds that are part of the price of deployment for thousands of our servicemen and women. While our Congress debates immigration reform and schedules investigations into the plethora of administration scandals, 22 veterans are dying every day from suicide, two of whom were both from the class of 1995 and committed suicide within 45 days of each other in 2012.

While our VA director gives false and misleading information to congressional committees, hundreds of thousands of veterans wait more than a year, sometimes two, just to begin their treatment for these unseen wounds that continue to haunt them. VA hospitals falsify diagnoses and cover up Veteran suicides to save the VA money. Something had to change, and I wasn’t willing to wait any longer. Hence, The Silent War Foundation was born. The organization’s sole purpose is to get our veterans and their families the treatment they deserve to overcome these non-physical injuries.”

From the far side of the planet, I heard from John Moore. A picture John sent included a local guard for the players on the golf course (evidently SOP in PNG). I couldn’t tell if the security guard was for John’s safety or to help sway the scoring of his game. Notes from John follow: “After some 20 years bouncing around the Islamic world, I’ve taken a bit of a detour.

I’ve been with ExxonMobil for almost five years now, and I decided to come and work on their

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LNG project in Papua, New Guinea (PNG).

The country, while facing many of the same challenges as other developing world nations, is quite unique. Between the biodiversity, terrain, amazing ocean, WW2 sites and the daily grind of supporting a multi-billion dollar investment, things are busy! I’m with the public and government affairs team, mainly focused on developing strategies for how our PNG affiliate engages with external stakeholders. My wife, Kirsten, is Australian (we met in Afghanistan), and she and our two boys (Alex, 10, and Zachary, 6) live in the Sunshine Coast north of Brisbane. I commute back and forth.”

From Vic Tran: “I have relocated to Kabul, Afghanistan, with a new assignment but still with the same company. I am assigned to an ISAF/ SOF group (International Security Assistance Force/Special Operations Forces), TF10 (Task Force). The group is coalition based and made up of U.S. and Romanian Special Forces. These guys are great and definitely show their skills.

In this position, I take my law enforcement skills one step further by advising and assisting in locating the bad guys and capturing them.

There is not a moment that goes by without something happening, especially in this city.

I can report first-hand that we are making an impact. The Special Forces do a superb job.

The Afghan people cease to amaze me in their willingness to live in peace even in the face of adversity. The Afghan judiciary system is eager to learn and adapt to the ever-changing crimes of the country. I am anxious to see how this will turn out, but I know that the Afghan society has already progressed since we have been here. I was able to take a break last month after being ‘in country’ for six months and away from home for eight months. I was able to spend time with Debi and my family in our new home in Myrtle Beach, SC. It was nice to get away and finally have freedom of movement without looking over your shoulder and my ‘head on a swivel.’ Though my two-week break went by quick, as I knew it would, I was able to spend some quality time with Debi and talk about things that are dear to us. It’s funny how you don’t realize what your life is all about until you have gone to another country or experienced what I have, as some of you can relate. Guys, cherish those moments. I am proud, as always, of Debi and how she has taken care of everything. I am fortunate enough to have found her, and I tell her every moment how much she means to me. Debi, thank you for coming into my life. Well, I just wanted this to be a short note but I guess I rambled on. I miss you all and look forward to seeing everyone again.

If ever any BR is in Virginia, South Carolina, or Afghanistan, e-mail me so we can get together.”

For myself, I have tried to keep up with people via LinkedIn. I connected with Troy Spencer

recently and immediately received a diatribe of hilarious comments similar to when I sat with Troy in econ classes. It was classic.

Keep the updates coming, and let us keep our Brothers in mind who are serving both domestically and overseas. God bless VMI.

’94

Christopher L. Doyle

On Aug. 4, 2013, I attended the VMI Alumni Association Potomac River Chapter’s Rat Send-off picnic. I was glad to meet up with Vince Porter and my Dyke, Eric Hyde ’91.

Eric’s son, Jacob, was there as a pre-strain. He matriculated at VMI on Aug. 18. The event was great and yet another reminder that we are now seasoned alumni of the Institute. We are at a busy point in our lives, perhaps with children and/ or demanding careers, but if you haven’t done anything with your local alumni chapter yet, I would encourage you to attend an event and tell some fourth stoop war stories. For those of you without a local chapter, reach out to an alumnus and sit down for a drink. It is always good to run into a fellow VMI alum.

I had a nice conversation with Clayton Ricks. A few years ago, he separated from the active duty Air Force and opened his own dental practice in Tampa, FL. After much hard work, he is now happy to report that his practice is doing very well. He remains in the Air Force Reserve and is doing well there, too. He is looking forward to attending our 20th Reunion next spring (April 25-26, 2014).

Steve Colvin is working for the Air Force as a civilian and is also still in the Reserve. He was recently selected to attend the Army War College in Carlisle, PA. He will be moving his family there for the year.

Prayers and thoughts go out to Brad Rees who recently lost his twin sister, Amanda Austin. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Mandy’s friends and family.

Tim Bailey recently PCSed from Great Lakes, IL, to Camp Lejeune, NC. Tim is the XO for Wounded Warrior Battalion - East. Tim ran into Chris Demetriades, who recently reported to the 10th Marine Regiment.

Tim Silva announced that his wife, Melissa, gave birth to a baby boy. John Timmothy Silva was born on August 15 in Böblingen, Germany.

He weighed in at six pounds, 15 ounces, and was 18.9 inches. They are stationed in Germany, where Tim works for U.S. Africa Command.

Congratulations to the Silvas!

I sincerely hope that everyone is well. Please let me know if there is anything I can do for you.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES media can be to keep up with everybody.

As always, stay safe, be well and all the best to you and your families! 95, 95, 95!

’95

Thomas A. Brashears

As many of you may already know, I have chosen a new career path and now find myself here at VMI as the associate director of financial aid. I will still continue my duties as the public address announcer, and at least now, I won’t have to run up and down the highway from the D.C. area for each game. I encourage each of you to drop me a line or give me a call if and when you’re in town.

Before getting into the regular updates, I wanted to pass along some information from the Alumni Association. The following is the text of an e-mail from Bob Heely ’69, president of the VMI Alumni Association, to all of the class agents: “Each of you received a letter authored by John Sollock ’08 making numerous allegations about issues at VMI. This letter is full of misinformation and, in some cases, outright false statements. It appears the letter was sent in an effort to further some unknown agenda. Gen. Peay ’62 will address the points outlined in this letter with the Alumni Association Board at its meeting September 1314. I will report to you, Gen. Peay’s comments, after the Alumni Association Board meeting. In the meantime, I ask each of you not to forward this letter to your Brother Rats. Let us get all the facts before jumping to any conclusions.”

My sincere apologies to Jeff Wright as I failed to mention a very important recognition in our last notes … a hearty congratulations to him and his lovely bride on the birth of their child. Andrew Steven was born on December 31, 2012, just in time for the tax deduction! Jeff still works as a civil engineering manager for a consulting firm in the Philadelphia area and just finished completely renovating his house just in time for the new kid. Again, congrats, Jeff!

Brian Kellner forwarded me an e-mail from Dave Johnson about donating to the Greg Wright Scholarship Fund: “You’re receiving this e-mail and form to offer you an opportunity to provide support to the VMI Greg R. Wright Scholarship Fund. No pressure, rather this is my attempt to broaden exposure to Greg’s fund managed by the VMI Foundation. (Enclosed find an EFT form to the VMI Foundation.) All you need to do is fill out this form, sign it and return it with a voided check. Place an asterisk behind the amount and somewhere below in the space write that you

2013-Issue 4

’96

Dan Williams

Class of 1995: The Bernard and Brashears families got together at the world famous Pancake Pantry in Nashville, Tennessee, for some great food and fellowship during summer 2013. want it to be credited to the Gregory R. Wright, Jr. 1995 Scholarship. That will ensure your money is allocated correctly.”

Please send the donation to the attention of Tracy Akers at the VMI Foundation. The address is P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA, 24450. Let’s get the word out and really build this fund up.

I also want to recognize the many Brother Rats we have now in battalion command, and there are several, scattered around the world … Kendall Clarke, Buddy Meador, Andy Johnson, Larry Burris, Arie Richards and Shannon Lucas to name a few. I know Chris Wills is headed back to Fort Leonard Wood to assume battalion command sometime soon. If I missed you, let me know so you can be recognized.

For all you Charlie Company guys, ran into Alex DeVarona ’93 in Nashville this summer. He just left battalion command and is now a regimental tac at West Point. I know Matt Reiner still shudders at the sound of his name … flashbacks from Cadre Week, I guess. Also, while in Nashville, Jill, our kids and I got together with Mike Bernard and his family. We enjoyed a great meal at the famous Pancake Pantry. The Bernards are doing well and looking forward to heading back to Haiti around Christmas for some mission work.

I’ve had regular conversations with several BRs on Facebook recently including Jeff Godby, Benji Bird, Bradley Coleman, Bill Eger, John Brooks, Mike Johnson, Gary Bailey, Noel Gorospe, Joe Doyle, among others … what a great tool social

Peter Segersten

Hey, Brother Rats!

I hope everyone is enjoying the summer with family, friends, and loved ones.

Stephen Johnson checked in from San Diego.

Stephen is currently the XO of the USN’s HSC23 wildcards and is a SH-60 pilot. Stephen says, “Kris and I are doing well out here in San Diego.

Personally, I miss Lynchburg and being in Virginia, but I guess you can’t complain about San Diego, except the politicians and the fact that it is still in California. Patrick just started his year of second grade and has his first girlfriend. Elliot started K5 this year, and he seems to not like the fact he has some homework when he comes home (writing his name and practicing letters). Typical 4-year-old I suppose. Life at HSC-23 is good. We spent about two weeks at the beginning of July at Nellis AFB supporting a deploying SOF team with insert/extract and close air support platforms.

It’s always fun flying up there, but knowing some of the guys may not be coming home from deployment this time next year always puts a little shadow over it. Looking forward to seeing you

Class of 1996: Sophia Belle Hoff was born at 6:19 p.m. on May 17, 2013, at the Loudoun INOVA Birthing Inn. She weighed 8 pounds, 3 ounces and was 20 inches long at birth.

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CLASS NOTES and everyone else next spring on vacation. I hope we’ll be able to get everyone out.”

Our Brother Rat, Anthony Martin, a commonwealth attorney for Nelson County, has recently been in the news serving the commonwealth with distinction. After a teenager from Nelson County was reported missing, a person of interest was arrested by the commonwealth and a massive search in coordination with the FBI ensued. Prayers to the girl, the family and other loved ones that she may be found alive and well.

Eli Wahesh dropped me a line from Savannah, GA. He is doing extremely well and was just promoted to senior vice president at CareCore National, an evidence-based medicine technology company. On his team are two other VMI alumni, Craig Hightower ’84 and Mark Parton ’08.

In VMI sporting news, Greg Harris continues to progress with coaching on the VMI football team. This season he was named VMI’s defensive coordinator. Greg has been on board since the ’07 season as the team’s outside linebacker coach.

Congratulations, Greg, and go Keydets!

We have some new additions to the VMI Family.

John Ripley and his wife, Shannon, recently welcomed into the world a son, Keegan Holt Ripley, on July 23. John, by chance, ran into Chris Lowe in Old Town Alexandria. Then they figured out that they live two blocks from each other. John occasionally sneaks out for a beer with Chris.

Congratulations, John, to you and your wife on the new little one!

Christian Hoff and his wife, Laura, also introduced into the world a beautiful daughter, Sophia Belle. I was able to attend a party to celebrate the upcoming arrival of Sophia at Christian’s house in Leesburg. JA Glaccum and wife were also in attendance along with some other VMI alumni.

Congratulations to Christian and Laura!

Ken McCoy and his wife, Tracy, just had their third child, Kinsey Marie, born on April 3. Ken is still working for GE and has recently transferred to the Oil & Gas Subsea Products group. Congratulations to Ken and Tracy.

I recently had a chat with Tom Danielsen. Tom is doing well up in Massachusetts working for Covidien. He once again did his yearly trek down to Newport, RI, for the annual folk music festival.

He currently is in Scandinavia visiting family and friends in Norway and Sweden.

Paul Dickinson seems to be doing well working for Price Waterhouse Coopers in India. Paul says, “Going into my second year of three in Banaglore, India, supporting one of PWC’s global accounts.

It’s been great so far and I’m really exploring this part of the world. I’m still keeping my foot in the military and am a lieutenant colonel in the Air Force Reserve. We welcome anyone that would like to visit this part of the world.”

Well, that is it for this edition of the class notes.

Once again, we have a Facebook page, LinkedIn

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group and a Twitter feed to keep up with the class.

Please feel to free to drop a note or just give me a call or drop an e-mail.

I look forward to maybe taking a trip or two down to the Institute during the fall for football or a pleasant weekend in Lexington. I hope to see you all soon.

Cheers, Pete Segersten

Hamel Reinmiller

’98

John A. Strock

Steve Nichols, his wife, Alexis, their 6-year-old daughter, Abbey, and 2-year-old son, Patrick, just moved to Ashburn, VA, last year. Steve currently works as a program manager for The George Washington University (been there for 10 years).

After spending all his time at VMI running the block to other schools, his calling was to work in higher education.

Steve talks to John Graef quite a bit. He and his wife, Tiffany, their sons, Grant and Jack, and daughter, Isabella, recently moved into a house in Chantilly, VA. It’s apparently really nice and they love unannounced visitors who want to take advantage of the pool, preferably late at night ... the louder the better.

Class of 1998: The Steve Nichols family on vacation in Corolla, North Carolina.

Class of 1998: Steve Nichols, Marc Schweigert and Christian Hoff ’96 volunteered at a local brewery in Ashburn, Virginia, April 2013.

Class of 1998: Andre Thornton, Avi Hopkins, Brent Taylor ’99, Quesaun Wigfall ’00, Aaron Yarbough ’01 and Tyler Owens ’14 on July 27 during an UNCLE Bridging the Gaps mentoring session. Also present were two 2013 College Orientation Workshop graduates and additional middle/high school kids, ranging in age from 13 to 17 years old. See class notes for details.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Lee Guill and his wife, Kristen, and son, Aidan, are doing well. Lee now works for Johnson Controls and resides in Reston, VA, which means he wears Crocs, listens to NPR and drinks really expensive wine. Yah ... none of us could believe it either, but the Mad Texan does pop out from time-to-time.

Marc Schweigert is doing great. He is an executive for Microsoft and is pretty much the equivalent of Harvey Keitel’s character in “Pulp Fiction.” He travels to Microsoft client sites and fixes problems, all discreetly and ninja-like. His wife, Sara, daughter, Ava, and son, Trevor, live in Ashburn, VA. The General, aka Jason Harding, is doing really well. He is a sales manager for Oracle and lives in Ashburn, VA, with his wife, Tumay, and daughters Lilli, Aila and Ella, just born in April.

Being neighbors, Steve and Jason try to sneak off on Saturday mornings and fish the lakes and farm ponds of northern Virginia. Pretty funny that all of these dirt bags now have daughters. Karma!

I also received a note from Al Lester who is living in Glen Allen, VA, with his beautiful wife and two daughters, aged seven and four. They celebrated 11 years of marriage on the August 31! Big congrats!

The Army has moved Matt Baldwin to the D.C. area. He is the battalion executive officer for USAPAT (United States Army Priority Air Transport), providing executive air travel to senior Army leaders. Matt recently started flying a Cessna Citation and should be flying a Gulfstream 550 within a few months. He and his wife have a contract on a house in Springfield, VA, and are working to get their girls enrolled in school.

Andre Thornton and Mike Rogers started a youth mentoring program called U.N.C.L.E., Unified Need for Courageous Leadership and Empowerment, and they are leading by example to change the lives of young people.

’99

William Steinbach

Brother Rats, I hope everyone is enjoying this mild summer.

Matriculation and college football are just around the corner!

Cornell Lewis tells me that Brent Taylor and his wife welcomed a baby boy into the world in August. In addition to Brent, Cameron and Jenny Tabor welcomed another boy, Davis Cameron Tabor, in June. Charles Gallion just spent six weeks at Fort Lee at the Operational Research & Systems Analyst Qualification Course to close out his education as a major in the Army. He is looking at possible half-marathons to run in

2013-Issue 4

the next six months, if anyone in the D.C. area would like to join in. The end of August, he picks back up at George Mason to finish his grad work.

Jeremy Obenchain sent me the following update on numerous BRs. “Greetings from the rainy

Class of 1999: Marshall Luck, right, and Virginia Gov. Bob McDonnell at the signing of the Commonwealth Transportation Funding Bill (HB 2313).

Netherlands. Hope this finds you well. Spoke to a few guys over the past few months. Ben Kincaid was recently in France celebrating his wedding anniversary while on R&R from Afghanistan.

He’s headed back to the Northeast in the spring/ summer ’14. Mike Purdy is expecting his third child any day now. Conor Powell has been bouncing between Jerusalem, Cairo and Kabul, and he also recently celebrated his wedding anniversary ... while on assignment in Tahrir Square. I am hoping to catch up with Conor in Istanbul this fall.

Spoke to Jamie Kane recently. He’s enjoying life back in Richmond. Jason Hennigan is in South Florida with the Coast Guard. Last I heard, Coley Campbell was getting transferred to Roanoke and excited about the move out of North Carolina for a while. Chris Jackson is doing well in Richmond.

Rumor has it his gnarly beard landed him on several no-fly lists. David Budlong is rumored to be in the Charlottesville area teaching and coaching football. I spoke to Pat Stutts as well. He’s doing well in the Charlotte area. He’s still upset that the Carolina Panthers didn’t take Tim Tebow.”

After a long absence from the class notes, Greg McDearmon sent me this update: “I haven’t submitted anything for notes in ages. Mostly because nothing is really all that new here in Louisville other than some tremendous college sports! Rooting on the Cardinals in basketball and football has been a lot of fun. And if anyone wants to come

root on UofL as they chase another basketball championship, or UofL football, as they try to go undefeated through their powder-puff schedule, come on out. I have tickets.

Time hasn’t slowed down at all. Steph and I marvel at the fact we have a 10-, 8- and 7-yearold in the house. In some ways, 1999 just doesn’t seem long enough ago for that to be the case. We are grateful the kids are healthy, and watching them mature physically and mentally is very rewarding. I have been employed at NTS Development Company for nine years now, and the company continues to grow and my area of responsibility continues to grow with the company.

It has been a tremendous work experience, and we were blessed to cross paths with NTS back when I was getting out of the Navy in 2004. We recently sold our old farmhouse, east of Louisville, and have reluctantly made the transition to a neighborhood in Louisville. We enjoyed the space and freedom of living on some land, but the drive times, work, and upkeep on a 100-year-old house led us to make a change. We don’t see many alumni out here in Louisville, but recently Bill Stearman ’96 moved to Louisville. We have enjoyed their hospitality already and need to take greater advantage of getting together with them.

Also, Brad Wineman recently visited us for a weekend of baseball, historical tours of Kentucky frontier forts, Civil War battlefields, and the telling of old VMI stories. So, while I haven’t sent in an update in several years, we are doing well and have many reasons to count our many blessings.

If anyone is traveling through or to Louisville, please give us a shout.”

Jeff Holder tells me that Jake Abell was married in the OBX to Rhonda Potter on July 3. Ryan Bogese and Jeff were there to celebrate with them.

Jeff has been able to get together with Jamie

Class of 1999: From left, Court Whitman; Maj. Gen. Phillip Anderson ’70, USA (Ret); and Jason Hennigan on the Appalachian Trail.

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CLASS NOTES For those of you that were not aware, Billy Meyer fairly often this year for a few rounds of Liberty. He also says he saw Max Chance in golf, concerts, cookouts, etc. He also saw Wes NOVA on a business trip.

Raynes was hospitalized with a severe allergic Patrick Forrest sent me the following. “I have reaction to a bee sting. Henry James has been Barrow at one of Jamie’s cookouts, and he was doing well and had slimmed down quite a bit. Paul accepted the position as deputy general counsel keeping up with Billy and his family and sent Brown is expecting another child this October, and vice president at the National Association of out the following update. “I am very happy to which will be his fourth! Patrick Henderson is Manufacturers and will be leading their litiga- report to all of you that Billy is recovering! I had also expecting his third and is doing great down tion efforts. Also, on July 13, 2013, I married my a great visit with Billy and Katie on Wednesday in Roanoke with his business venture with Chris longtime boyfriend, Andrew Monaco, in Iowa. evening in his rehab facility. He has been in rehab Copenhaver.

At the wedding were Chris Magee and Ki Hawk for a week and a half and progressing well! In this Jay Witt sent me this update: “My family and Hwang from our class along with other VMI short time, he has gone from not walking at all to I have left the Roanoke, VA, area for new adven- alum from other classes. We just got back from walking over a 100 feet, reading with a straight tures in Wild and Wonderful, West Virginia. I’ve our honeymoon in Cambodia and Koh Samui, edge to reading without, and not being able to taken a new position with CONSOL Energy, Inc. and we are enjoying some downtime before the feed himself to holding a slice of pizza. You all would be extremely proud of his determination The company and the work are great thus far. new job starts!”

After a stint running his own firehouse, Jake and strength. He demands extra PT time and they We’re drilling for natural gas in West Virginia, Pennsylvania and Ohio. We should stay busy since Britt has been moved over to run all of the train- actually have to hold him back from pushing so the CIC is destroying all other energy supplies ing for the Chesterfield, VA, fire department. That hard. His spirits are good and his humor has cerin the nation. I stay in regular contact with BRF is what you get for being too good at your job, tainly returned even though is speech is still slow.

Jeremy Obenchain who is currently stationed in Jake. Speaking of Jake, Jake Abell got tired of Katie and Billy’s mom, dad and sister have stood Holland. Now that he speaks Arabic, the Coast other people sending in disparaging notes, so he beside him 24/7, and they have inspired me with Guard sends him to various places expounding decided to send me his own this time. “I always their strength and love! His tentative discharge on the finer details of port security (so he says speak with ‘Stonewall’ Holder on a week-to-week date to go home and start outpatient therapy is … I think he’s shooting people out of their track basis. We all went to a Dierks Bentley concert August 9. Please continue to keep him and his suits all over the Middle East and Europe). BRF (Ryan Bogese, Jeff Holder) and overindulged in family in your thoughts and prayers over these Andy Fuller gave me a call a couple weeks ago. beers. We ran into Jaime Meyer there as well. I next several months of recovery.”

He has recently moved up in the world, well, he woke up with a cloudy and big head. I think we That is all for this edition. Thanks to everyone moved out to Botetourt, VA, from Roanoke, VA will be doing some more work with Jeff soon in that checked in. See you guys soon. … I’d call that a move up. Andy, his wife and downtown Richmond. Ryan seems to be doing In the bonds, two boys are doing great. I also stay in regular well. No new changes that I can see or report.

Bill contact with Rat Tie Parker Reeves ’01. Rat Same old ‘Goose.’ I saw Max over at his house the Reeves loves to give me a ration of it every time other day and as usual got a good laugh with him.

Brandon Farris ’01 cranks out voluminous class notes and ’99 My boys are doing well. Wyatt will turn 11 next has a blank column (Bill’s note: Rack your chin month, and I have begun preparing him for the in Reeves).” Thanks, Jay. Good to hear from you. Ratline ‘Old Corps’ style. Waverly (my youngest) Ricco Espinoza tells me he has just moved to finally started talking. He is doing well and I see Quantico to attend the Marine Corps Command a real problem with him being extremely destrucand Staff College, where our BR Brad Wineman tive in his years to come. Could be an expensive, Brother Rats, I hope that everyone had a chance is an instructor. Dr. Justin Douglas is starting a long, hard road for me but I guess I deserve it.” to enjoy a well-deserved summer break. practice of otolaryngology and head Parker Reeves wrote in from Las and neck surgery in Lewisburg, WV. Vegas and told me that Tom Sebrell He looks forward to being able to got married in August. Congratulaattend the VMI football games this tions, Tom, and I look forward to fall and catching up with the guys at seeing some more photos! tailgates on the parade deck.

Wilson Mustian is currently dePatrick Geoghegan sent me this ployed to Afghanistan with the 3rd note: “Virginia and I are doing well IBCT, 1st Infantry Division as a living outside Atlanta in Smyrna, GA, JAG. (Editor’s Note: See photo of since October ’12. We’re looking to Mustian on the “In Theater” page make a move to the mid-Atlantic near the front of this Review.) region (North Carolina or Virginia, Doug Bates hosted a few of our hopefully) this year. I’ve been in BRs this July in Centerville, TN. touch with Billy Raynes but not able Doug reports, “our C-31 roommates to hook up for some golf just yet. Also of Brian Wilson, Luke Beazley (on touch base now and then with Mike block leave before his third deployMaire. Haven’t been in touch with ment later this fall), Will Charlet too many other folks from the “I” and Scott Smith ’02 visited for a Class of 2001: VMI grads at the Aug. 3, 2013, wedding but would like to make it to a VMI long weekend. We got to fish several reception honoring Agda and Tom Sebrell ’01, son of John football game this fall and hopefully days and enjoyed catching up over ’69 and Sallie Sebrell of Lexington, VA. The reception was run into some folks.” Wes Barrow refreshments. Our inability to reheld at Evans Hall on the W&L campus. Tom and Agda is still with Ernst and Young. He has cover as quickly from the weekend, were married in Poland in July and now live in London. five classes left for his M.B.A. from as we used to, was depressing to us

’01

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES William Talley V

’03 Class of 2001: Brandon Farris with director Judd Apatow. all.” I think we can all relate to that inability to recover.

Will Felvey informed me that Brother Rat Brady Daniels and his wife, Jessica, are expecting their third baby, a son, due on December 28. Will spoke with Brady recently and said Brady and Jessica, along with their two little boys, Henry and Kellan, are excited about this new addition to the Daniels family. Will also said, “As for Laura and me, we – as so many of our BRs – are staying busy with our two little ones, Sam and Cate. Everything is going well and that’s all I can ask for.”

Josh Berk’s son, Ewan Gregory Berk, was born on March 27, 2013, in Arlington, VA. His wife, Chanda, and Josh are doing well with the new baby and making life adjustments as this is their first. Josh already found time to secure a provisional appointment for him if he chooses VMI (he will!). He will graduate in 2035, crazy!

Nick Pomaro and his wife are also expecting baby number three in December.

Chris Simpson is still living in Huntsville, Alabama, working within missile defense and putting time in with the TN Air National Guard.

Chris went up to D.C. for July Fourth with his wife and two boys. He had a great time and got to cookout with Jim Bourie, Justin Harbor and Landon Winkelvoss ’04. Everyone was in high spirits and showed Jim and Justin the good and bad of the toddler years!

Oscar Alfaro took five of his students to Chicago, IL, for the U.S.A. Taekwondo National Championship. Out of those five, one became a national champion in his division, while two of his students came in second place in their divisions. Oscar’s goal for next year is to get one of his students on the Junior U.S.A. National Taekwondo Team.

I’m sorry these were so short, I didn’t get many notes this time. Please keep the updates coming and send plenty of photos, so I don’t have to run photos of me! Also, if you are not on the class distribution list, please e-mail me at wbrandon. farris@gmail.com and I will add you.

Thank you, Brandon

2013-Issue 4

Nichole Kramer

Short set of notes this time, Brother Rats. The summer is currently upon us, and submissions for this set of notes have been very low. Our 10th Reunion is just over the horizon, and as I write this, we’re almost 45 days out [September 2013].

I ran into Adam Holloway at an O.A.R. concert that Amie-Anne and I went to at the end of July.

It brought back memories for all of us of at our Ring Figure back in 2001. Adam is with the Chesterfield County Fire Department and living up in the Short Pump, VA, area with his wife and daughter. Since the last set of notes, there has been a lot to be excited about for the members of room 122. Andrew Biesterveld married Chelsey Grove on Saturday, June 8 in Ohio. Brandon Matthews, Blake Traina and I were all groomsmen in the ceremony, which was held along the riverfront at the Biesterveld Estate. A wonderful time was had by all in attendance. One item of particular note was the fun had by many involving the golf carts that were on-hand for the affair. The only member of the room 122 family that wasn’t present was Blake’s wife, Jennifer. Speaking of the Trainas, Blake and Jennifer announced big news that they’re expecting a baby due sometime in early 2014. Congratulations to both of you!

I got an e-mail from Mel Ward that she and her

husband are headed to Japan this summer where they’ll be stationed with the Marine Corps. Mel is getting out of the Marines this summer to spend more time with her kids. Mel has been in since 2004. She has a 2-year-old son, Ry, and a 4-monthold daughter, Paige. They’ll be over in Japan for the next three years. I wonder if she will cross paths with Jason Lambert and family? Along with all of this, Mel is also a fitness instructor! She also informed me that Phil Hendrix is engaged to a “wonderful woman,” and John Tamborino got married this past May. She’s kept in touch with Matt Waite who’s married and has a son on the way, and Nicolette Weaver who’s married and living with her husband in Africa.

I saw Joe and Amy Voorhees in Duck, NC, over the Fourth of July with their girls. Everyone looked to be enjoying the time at the beach and planning on attending the reunion in the fall. Jared Swanson is doing well, just relayed his desire for Band Co. to send him updates. I got notified that John Noonan will be off the market officially as of June 2014.

Jennifer Carroll has joined the masses of alumni in Richmond, VA. The former principal at Law Office of Jennifer Carroll in Los Angeles, CA, and Petersburg, VA, she is currently a magistrate judge in Richmond, VA. Look out 804, Jen has never been a pushover!

Not sure where Dermot Gavin is these days, but he apparently stays fit with some help from the Nike Run App. You can “cheer him on” through Facebook, which is becoming a pretty popular little app. I might have to give it a try. (Sorry, Dermot, I warned you!)

Matt Van Wie joined the law firm of Newby, Sartip, Masel, & Casper in February 2012, where his practice includes personal injury, civil litigation, corporate law and real estate.

Additionally, Matt completed his master of

Class of 2003: From left, Abbey Wing, Mark Swank ’76, Jenn Adams, Libby Swank and Chris Adams commemorated Wes Swank’s birthday on Lake Travis in Austin, Texas, July 21, 2013.

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 2003: Andy Biesterveld and Chelsey Grove were married June 8, 2013, at their home in Ohio. From left is most of the “Room 122 Family:” Bill Talley V; Amie-Anne Talley ’05, Blake Traina, Chelsey and Andy Biesterveld, Audrey Matthews and Brandon Matthews.

Class of 2003: Newlyweds Andy Biesterveld and Chelsey Grove.

Class of 2003: Mel Ward’s son, Ry, age 2, and daughter, Paige, 4 months old. During summer 2013, Ward made the transition with her husband to Japan, where they are stationed with the Marine Corps.

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laws degree (LL.M.) in May 2013 and now holds an LL.M. in Real Property Law from University of Miami School of Law. Aside from work, Matt keeps busy running on the beach, lifting weights and reading. I hope that the Review is on that list of reading material, Matt.

I heard from Patrick Schaerrer the other day.

He and Yutthapoom Sartngern had met up in Bangkok. He told me that Poom is finishing his CGSC course with the Thai Army.

I am thrilled to announce that Derek Brown graduated from the George Washington University with a master’s in systems engineering this past May 2013. He is also a master engineer of the passed hors d’oeuvres, according to Nichole Kramer. Jason Boatright also graduated this summer, earning his master’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Florida.

On the way to Roanoke this summer, Jonathan Lowery made a brief pit stop at VMI. His kids enjoyed seeing Dad’s old stomping grounds.

Nichole made sure everyone got loaded up with the best schwag before letting them continue on their journey. John Roche attended Vince LaPietra’s wedding in San Diego this past June.

Chris Kim, Alex Rizzato, Alicia Williams and Joseph Pederson (Pederson) were there. John said the wedding was great! He also said Vince, Chris and Alex live in California; Alicia is still running around D.C. and Joseph has moved to New York. John still resides in Stafford, living the life with the wife and two little ones.

Another current Cali resident is Justin Trenta … but if you’re looking for him, act fast. He may be packing up shop soon.

Unlikely that he will move to Alabama … but if you are in the Deep South, maybe pop on in and say hi to Brad Hildebrand and his wife, Amber, where they are rocking out and living life with their two munchkins.

Joe Darin reminded me that his daughter, Savannah Grace, just turned 1 year old on August 4. My, how the time flies. Joe’s wife works for the Wounded Warrior Project down in ATL. He wanted to be sure that “If any BRs need help with anything (benefits, getting registered, etc.), let me know.” Joe took a new position, leaving Bahama Breeze as the executive chef, and he is now working for Eagles Landing Christian Academy as the director of Food Services.

Chaz Wagner and his wife, Emily, rode the motorcycle from northern Virginia up to Boston, MA, on July 12 to visit Dic Donohue ’02 and Ed Donohue for the weekend. Dic was doing really well. (Editor’s Note: See the Alumni News section of this Review for an article about Dic Donohue.)

Nothing like a 1,200-mile ride in three days. As Chaz puts it, “Emily couldn’t take the motorcycle ride back, so she flew home to D.C. and left me to ride home alone.” I say smart move, Emily!

On August 11, Chaz and his wife then visited the Maker’s Mark and Jim Beam distilleries in Loretto and Clermont, KY, respectively. “Nothing like good bourbon straight from the barrel.”

– Chaz Wagner.

That’s all for this set.

’04

C. Justin Roberts Ryan Shealy

Brother Rats, First off, I’d like to apologize for the noticeable gap in between this and the last appearance in the Alumni Review. There was a disconnect between Justin and myself as to who would be handling the notes, and I guarantee y’all that it has been ironed out.

Tony Peters taught high school math last year, but is moving to the middle school, as he is the head MS wrestling coach. He’s also still in the Navy Reserves working for a Subforce Expeditionary Maintenance Unit. His wife is currently an instructor pilot at Vance AFB in Enid, OK, teaching the young-ins to fly the mighty T-6 Texan II. Gary Cutler has been busy over the past few months. Finished a nine-month deployment to Afghanistan in April and changed command in July. He just arrived (five days ago) in the U.K. and will be an exchange student officer at the Royal School of Military Survey, Hermitage, Berkshire, U.K., with the Royal Engineers for the

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

Class of 2004: Dan Hall, third from right, with his new bride and groomsmen, including Jesse Seguin, far left, and Josh Wright, third from left.

Class of 2004: Mary Garland Virginia Andrus, daughter of Joel and Joy.

next 14 months. Cutler is getting affairs settled here and his wife and daughter (Erin and Caroline) should be coming in the next few weeks.

Josh and Sara Wright are living in Poulsbo, WA. They have about a year left on his tour as the engineer of U.S.S. Nebraska (SSBN 739). They are looking at moving back to Saratoga Springs after this one. If you guys like horse racing, they say they are likely to have an extra room to crash if anyone needs one. Josh was also a groomsman, along with Jesse Seguin, at Dan Hall’s wedding on December 29, when Dan married his fiancée, Shannon Finn, in Springfield, MA. Peter Kent is selling information security technologies, finishing up 200-hour Ashtanga Yoga Teacher Training, gearing up for the Level II test of the CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) and living in Roswell, GA. Landon Winkelvoss and his wife have seen Sean Duggan and his wife twice since April.

They came and visited the Winkelvosses in April in Washington, D.C., and Landon and his wife returned the favor and traveled to Massachusetts

Class of 2004: Terrell Jackson, Maurice Pipkin, Eric Damon, Brian Malast, Will Beale, Jay Saunders, Landon Winkelvoss, and all of their incredibly dedicated and understanding wives attended the wedding of Justin Sloan and the former Karin Lipinksi on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in May 2013.

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in July for his son’s second birthday. Sean is doing real well and has mastered rugby, yard work, throwing darts by himself in the garage and cleaning his bathroom sink without his wife telling him. Times have changed for the better since VMI days for Sean. Landon also talked to Jason Dorn. He and his wife are expecting their second son later this year, so congratulations to them both. He is working for a small energy company and lives outside of Houston.

He received an e-mail from the mysterious John Nathan Berg. He indicated that he discontinued his image as the most interesting man in the world, living in Denver and is revamping that image from the great town of Roanoke, so he can be closer to family. We’re glad to have him back on the East Coast! In May, Terrell Jackson, Maurice Pipkin, Eric Damon, Brian Malast, Will Beale, Jay Saunders and Landon (and all of the incredibly dedicated, understanding wives) attended the wedding of Justin Sloan and the former Karin Lipinksi on the Eastern Shore, MD. As always, the VMI crew was the center of attention. Shenanigans occurred (mostly from Terrell), and only non-VMI people in the camp got arrested. Surprisingly, Eric did not have his usual gazelle-like dance moves and kept his antics strictly professional. A few weeks after the wedding, Eric, Justin, Steve Walker and he traveled to see Brian Malast in New Jersey.

Many great VMI stories were shared, and we enjoyed Brian’s witty humor. And finally, Will Beale and his wife, Amber, are expecting a boy at the end of the year. Maurice Pipkin and his wife, Georgi, are expecting a baby boy in January. Perhaps Maurice Eugene Pipkin V? Jim Palmer returned to northern Virginia after a six-month stint with Lithuanian SOF. Now back supporting U.S. government clients with Booz Allen Hamilton. Jason Dorn is working as in-house counsel to Texon L.P., an oil and gas company in Houston. He and his wife are building a house in Katy, Texas. Their son, Brady, will be joined by a little brother in November. Sarah (Johnson) and Curtis Bartholomew had their second child, Reid Alexander, on April 29, 2013.

As for me, I’m still absolutely loving life in D.C., still working for the Navy and gearing up for another flag football season and another marathon (Richmond). Who would have thought that I’d run a marathon, much less two, when we graduated?!

Thanks to all who submitted updates this time around! If you didn’t get the e-mail asking for updates, make sure the Alumni Agency has your current e-mail addy, so you’re not left out in the future! Also, keep an eye out for the invitation for our 10-year Reunion coming up in the fall of ’14!

RAH VIRGINIA MIL! Ryan Shealy

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CLASS NOTES

’05

Timothy Johnson William Ray

Brother Rats, I apologize for failing in my duties to provide you with regular updates for the class in the May edition of the Alumni Review. It seems I have been much busier than expected this year, and with a change in the A.R. office on who to submit notes to, I did not get the notes in on time. I hope to atone for my past iniquities by getting the notes done and turned in on time going forward.

Before I get into the notes, I am sure all of you are aware of our Brother Rat John Streetman’s passing. He was killed while riding his motorcycle in Mountain Springs, NV, on the evening of Sunday, April 28, 2013. His funeral service was held in his hometown of Rome, GA, on Sunday, May 5, 2013. His body was interred at the Georgia National Cemetery in Canton, GA. In lieu of flowers, the Streetman family is asking that donations be made to the VMI Foundation in John’s name.

The first $2,500 raised will go towards his brick.

There’s a lot of joy and excitement in being your class agent. I am privileged to be a witness to many happy times together – weddings, graduations and other momentous occasions in the lives of our Brother Rats. Since Tom Ferrara’s last update in 2009, he’s deployed twice, graduated the Air Force Weapons School as an intel weapons officer and moved to Abilene, Texas. On Oct. 6, 2012, he married Miss Susan Slopek of Midland, PA. Tom and Susan will reside in Las Vegas, NV, as Tom was transferred to Nellis AFB in June.

Jim and Crystal Driggs are pleased to announce Jim’s graduation from the University of Richmond School of Law in May 2013. He will earn a special certification in intellectual property law, but hopes to represent clients in general practice areas of law such as estate planning, family law and small-time criminal matters. Jim still maintains a real estate broker’s license and actively sells residential and commercial property in Richmond, VA. As soon as he passes the bar in late July, he will have the ability to represent clients in legal matters as well.

Jim and Crystal have gotten into Richmond’s adventure racing circuit and have recently placed among the top finishers in the Muddy Buddy and Project Athena Marathon Relay races. Jim finished his first marathon last November and felt so good during the race, he did a cartwheel

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at mile 22 to celebrate. Recently, Brother Rat Matt Dowdy was in Richmond celebrating his marriage, and Jim got to meet up with Matt for some cold drinks and VMI war stories. Needless to say, a good time was had, and Richmond is still recovering. Jim and Crystal send many thoughts and prayers to VMI class of 2005 for the loss of John Streetman. Jim said, “Streetman was one of the toughest guys I can remember (at the I).

Gone, but never forgotten, brotha!”

Greg Staat sends word that he and Maciek Kepka got together over the weekend of April 27.

Maciek’s daughter, Alexandra, and Greg’s daughter, Carrington, got a chance to meet and play with each other. Maciek’s daughter, Alexandra Kepka, was born Nov. 25, 2012, and Greg’s daughter, Carrington Staat, was born on March 10, 2013.

know that you had an awesome time. The entire town knows you had an awesome time.”

These pre-nuptial celebrations of bachelorhood were in preparation for the weddings of Ben Melton to Miss Courtney Horton and Brad Miller to Miss Joy Giglio. Courtney and Ben were married at the University of Texas Golf Club in Austin, Texas. Many Brother Rats were in attendance this weekend that included: Jon Proctor (groomsman), Tim Johnson (groomsman), Josh Sullivan (groomsman), Jason Downs (groomsman), Ian Dunlap (groomsman), Andrew Troy (usher), Ryan Murphy (usher), Greg Van Pelt, Shore Stokes, Kirk Stokes, Danny Fields and Sean Moore. Will Ray was not in attendance.

Now would be the part where I would tell you where the happy couple will reside, but as it always has been, Ben and Courtney have not had a normal relationship in a geographic sense.

They were going to reside in Nashville, TN, but Ben was sent on a trip by the Army to places unknown a few days after the wedding. Upon his return, he was notified he would be serving as an aide-de-camp in Fayetteville, NC, at Fort Bragg starting in July 2013. Courtney will need to stay in Nashville through May 2014 to finish her fellowship at Vanderbilt University Children’s Hospital. To add on to the craziness, Ben and Courtney are expecting a son in November 2013, not long after you read this edition of the Alumni Review. Despite the hectic and crazy life, Ben and Courtney are adopting Gunny Sergeant Tom Highway’s motto, “Adapt. Overcome. Improvise.” and taking everything in stride. With a great set of loving family and friends, the Melton family will be ready and able to take on anything

Class of 2005: Jim and Crystal Driggs won first place in the 2013 Project Athena Marathon relay co-ed division in Richmond, Virginia.

Josh Lyles and his wife, Jeanette, welcomed their first son, Joshua M. Lyles II, into the world on July 5, 2013. I hope to see him playing quarterback at Foster Stadium for the 2031 season.

Wells Griffith left his position with the RNC and is running (or hopefully by now has run and won) for Congress in Alabama’s 1st congressional district. He is running against a large number of candidates in the primary, so here’s wishing him all the success in the world, and “may the Institute be heard from today.”

As for myself, I have been quite busy the last several months with work, work and a few trips and mini-reunions. The months of February and March were very busy with two bachelor parties and two weddings. Rather than go into detail about the bachelor parties in a family publication, I’ll leave you with a quote from “Old School.” “I

Class of 2005: Jim Driggs finished his first marathon in November 2013 and did a cart wheel at mile 22 to celebrate.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Class of 2005 Kids Getting to Know Each Other Carrington, daughter of Greg Staat, and Ali, daughter of Maciek Kepka, relaxed while their dads hung out in northern Virginia on April 27, 2013.

life or the Army can throw at them. The Class of 2005 wishes nothing but the best for them as they start out in this new journey together.

Jon Proctor is still working as a lawyer in Atlanta. He and his wife live in Midtown. Josh Sullivan still works for Tyler Union and lives in Richmond. Jason Downs moved back to Wilmington, NC, where he works as a surveyor and works part-time as a dive instructor. Ian Dunlap is still stationed at Camp Lejeune with the Marine Corps as a MARSOC officer. Andrew Troy lives north of Baltimore where he works for Booz Allen Hamilton. He and his wife, Adrean, welcomed a daughter, Clare Madeline, into the world on July 13, 2013. She was born at 3:17 p.m. and was eight pounds, four ounces, and 20 inches long. Ryan Murphy still flies Apaches for the Army at Fort Campbell, KY. He and his wife are expecting a little girl in November 2013. Greg Van Pelt continues to drift the streets of Richmond in search of Crossfit classes, Yoga studios and extremely hippy women. He can occasionally be spotted on a Pedi-Taxi near some shady nighttime drinking establishment. Shore Stokes still lives and works in New York. He recently became engaged to his long-time girlfriend, Tara Breslin. Kirk Stokes has returned to the United States, as he will be attending the Thunderbird School of Management in Arizona to earn his M.B.A. Danny Fields is still in the Destin area of Florida. He is currently in the process of separating from the Army. Sean Moore left Quarles Petroleum and plans on working as a firefighter. He and his wife, Danielle, are expecting a girl in November 2013. Ryan King’s wife, Ashley, was in attendance and sends word that he is doing well.

The next weekend, I sauntered up I-64 to the sleepy college town of Charlottesville for the wedding of Brad Miller and Joy Giglio. The two were married in an intimate ceremony at the Veritas

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Vineyards near Afton, VA. After their honeymoon in Italy, the couple will reside in Charlottesville, VA, where Brad works for McKesson and Joy works as a nurse for the UVa hospital system. In attendance at the wedding were: Chris Johnson (best man), Alex Correll (groomsman), Jason Downs (groomsman), Tim Johnson (groomsman), Sean Moore and Greg Van Pelt. Alex Correll and his wife, Kat, welcomed a daughter, Coverly Anne, into the world this past March.

Chris Johnson continues his residency in Augusta, GA, at the Eisenhower Medical Center at Fort Gordon. He recently purchased a house on Magnolia Avenue that is only three blocks from Augusta National.

A few weeks later, I met up with Ryan Murphy, Jason Downs and Zach Lewis in Warrenton, VA, for the annual Virginia Gold Cup Races. Zach recently moved to Pennsylvania. He still works for the Army. He and his wife, Ana, have a sweet little girl, Ellie.

Outside of those trips, I’ve been quite busy (and sleepless) with work. I apologize for anyone I left out of the notes that I may have spoken to or seen.

I encourage those of you who have not updated us in a while to do so. Remember, we’re all in this together. Until next time …

In the bonds, Tim Johnson

’06

Clark Dudley

Fellow BRs, As I write the latest edition of class notes, I’m looking for the last few updates on Facebook, and see that the Rats and cadre are reporting to VMI.

What a day to look back on, and to be honest, most of my memory of that day is pretty hazy.

I do know I slept through the superintendent’s welcome speech before we met cadre because I stayed out all night for my last couple hours of freedom (should not be a surprise for most of you).

Most of you were probably taking it all in, and overall it was a day that all of us will remember forever. Well, with that personal note shared. Let’s get onto important updates.

I received an e-mail from Andrew Walton who just returned back to the good old U.S.A. from the desert region and couldn’t report much, but he did conduct some training operations. Also got a note from Andrew Ihnen. He let me know that he just received his Ph.D. Congrats, Andrew. After this, he and his wife, Colleen, moved to California, where he is working in R&D China Lake. He also saw Dave Rahl in Los Angeles and Las Vegas, as he was in California for training on his way from Minot to Colorado Springs. He also met up with Chris Gathmann who came through Edwards

Class of 2006: Matt McGonegle, wife LA and daughter Addison-Marie.

AFB to support F-35 JSF testing. He can also report that both are doing well. Andrew wanted to let everyone know that when they are in his neck of the woods to drop him a line.

It was great to get an e-mail from Shelly Pauling. Shelly is currently living in Richmond, VA, and is one year away from finishing her Ph.D. in general psychology specializing in sport psychology. I heard from Nate Parsons who is currently finishing up a six-month tour at the CAOC in Qatar doing C-130 plans for the AOR. He has run into Nick Saccone and Jeff Durham ’05 out there. Nate will be home in October and will be in C.O. until February 2014. From there he will be going to Randolph AFB, Texas, for pilot instructor training, then to Laughlin AFP for T-6 Texan IP for AF UPT. He plans to be in Key West for Christmas this year.

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CLASS NOTES I received a quick update from Kevin Simpson who let me know the following BRs got engaged. Kirby Smith, John Shillingburg and Mike Child. Congrats, guys. He also let me know that Dan Regan had a baby. Kevin also graduated with an M.B.A. from the University of Texas.

Congrats to all.

Andrew Upshaw recently took command of a tactical military intelligence company in Seoul. He is really looking forward to getting back to the good ole U.S.A. next summer. He wanted to let all know – “Greetings to all of our BRs, wherever they are, from the land of kimchi and metal chopsticks!”

I caught back up with Jon Kelton the other day, and he let me know that his internship with Morgan Stanley went well. He was asked to come back for a full-time position next summer when he completes his M.B.A. from NYU. He will be trading mortgage-backed securities. I also caught up with Mark Searles, who is returning to the D.C. area later this year, and will be a commander in the Old Guard at Fort Myer.

Wilson Nance is moving to Camp Lejeune, NC, to work under Marine Special Operations Command. Over the summer his wife, Jessica, and their son, Jaxon, went to Water Country USA and took him down his first waterslide at the age of two.

I received the following update from Steve Bartoszak: “Jimmy Angerman and I met up while I was deployed to Sicily. He is currently stationed at Naval Support Facility Naples, Italy. I was deployed to Naval Air Station Sigonella in Sicily, Italy, as a part of Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force Africa (SPMAGTF-AF), conducting Security Cooperation Operations in Africa and the Defense of the U.S. Embassy in Tripoli, Libya. I was the logistics officer for my unit, Jimmy is a Seabee in the Navy, not sure what his exact billet is. I’m currently a captain in the Marine Corps and Jimmy is a lieutenant in the Navy. Jimmy traveled down from Naples to Sicily, and we rode a couple Harleys all over the island together.

Nick Mazzenga has had a busy summer. He married Margaret Ann McLean on August 17. He met Ann while in grad school at University of Virginia. They got married in Charlottesville and they will be living in Arlington, VA. Greg Quillen and Phil Wilson were groomsmen; and Greg is flying for the Coast Guard down in Mobile, Alabama, where he and his

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Class of 2006: Steve Bartoszak and Jimmy Angerman at the WWII British War Cemetery in Sicily.

Class of 2006: Andrew Upshaw taking command of a tactical military intelligence company in Seoul, Korea.

Class of 2006: Nick Mazzenga and John Diehl.

wife and son, Henry, live. Per Nick, in Greg’s spare time he likes to look at his broken boat in the driveway. Phil Wilson is a naval ROTC instructor at the University of South Carolina.

After back-to-back deployments, Phil is enjoying his time immensely at USC. Nick also sees Tommy Upton on a pretty regular basis as he too lives in Arlington. Tommy’s wife is expecting their first baby this fall. Tommy and Nick both attended Shawn Hogan’s burial down in Tampa, FL, this June. Nick also has bumped into John Diehl several times, since he’s returned from the Philippines. Prior to Nick’s wedding Greg Quillen hosted some bachelor festivities for him at an undisclosed lake house in the back woods of North Carolina. Other notable folks in attendance included, Jimmy Wicker, Tommy Upton, Nate Ewoldt, Phil Wilson and Graham Forbes.

Shenanigans ensued.

Nick was also able to provide an update on Ben Chovanec as they ran into each other in the Salt Lake City airport, lost track of the time and almost missed his connection. In other random bumping into news, Nick saw Ryan Alexander at a Washington Nationals game this past summer. He was leaving his post with the Old Guard and on his way down south somewhere.

I heard from Matt McGonegle as well. He and his wife, L.A., celebrated the birth of their first child, a daughter named Addison-Marie, last June. The whole family is doing great and still living in Virginia Beach. Matt is still working for DuPont Sustainable Solutions and began the executive M.B.A. program at the Mason School of Business (College of William & Mary) in January of this year.

Final update for this edition of the notes is that my wife, Kate Dudley, is pregnant and is due late January 2014. We are super excited.

Cheers and RAH VA MIL!

’07

Sally Bushore

Thanks to everyone who submitted updates to me for this edition of the Review. It’s always great to hear from my BRs and to see what changes life has brought to everyone. I know most of us caught up at our reunion last fall and the submissions have been few and far between since then.

Please feel free to contact me about anything you want to share even if it doesn’t seem like “big” news to you. Even if you just want to share a story, humorous or not, don’t hesitate to drop me a line. My contact info is printed with every set of class notes so please don’t be strangers!

I heard from Shawn Jones recently and he has certainly been busy. Shawn says that he joined

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES Florida Keys in 2007. Below is the the Army about a year after gradustory in his words. ation and commissioned in ’09. He “In December of 2007, Peter is stationed in Jacksonville, FL, with Brookes and I were down in the the Army Corps of Engineers until Florida Keys during Christmas break December. After that, he will be of first class year. On one of the days attending Captain’s Career Course down there, we were in waist-deep at Fort Leonard Wood. Shawn is waves tossing a football back and married and he and his wife have two forth, and my class ring flew off my baby girls. Shawn was kind enough hand and into the water. (Brooksie to write that he had spoken with Joe likes to remind me at this point that Thompson and that Joe is headed he warned me that I should take off to basic and OCS for the Georgia my ring before going in the ocean.) It National Guard in August. was late in the afternoon with the tide Jonathon Woloshuk sent me a Class of 2007: Maury Denton and his new wife, Rachael, coming in and the sun going down so message saying that he took comcelebrated at their wedding on Aug. 3, 2013. after about half an hour we gave up the mand of Delta Company, 1st BN, search. I figured the ring was lost for41st IN at Fort Bliss on 5 July 2013. ever in the Atlantic Ocean, and I forgot Congrats, Jonathon! about the incident until I received an Particularly near and dear to my e-mail message on the evening of July heart, my roommate, Tabitha Pinter, was married to Matt Davenport in 8, 2013, from a retired man named Michigan in July. I was unable to Jerry Kassanchuk from Minnesota. attend the wedding myself, but I He said he found my e-mail contact hear there were plenty of BRs in information after Googling the name attendance to help her celebrate. inside of a VMI class ring found by Eri McMullen sent some pictures his friend, Will Anderson. After I and said they all had a blast. Present responded to his message with a brief to party with Tab at her enormous backstory, verifying where and how wedding were Eri, Mira Veis, Wes the ring was lost, he replied positively Class of 2007: At Tabitha Pinter’s wedding to Matt Davand Karen Thomas, Quincy Washa and told me his friend was snorkel enport in July 2013 were, from left, Karen Bill, Mira Veis, and Justin Trowbridge. Tab, Mira, treasure hunting with an underwater Pinter, Quincy Washa and Eri McMullen.

Karen and Eri all came to Las Vegas metal detector when he found it off for Tab’s bachelorette party this sumthe coast of Key West, FL, in March 2013. After a phone call, a few exchanged pictures mer, and I was able to visit with them for a while. of the ring and swapping of contact information, Newly engaged is Joe Cassin! Joe says that Robert Hill Jerry mailed me the ring and I sent back a thank he met his fiancée, Nikki Williams, at work. Joe you card with a finder’s fee.” works for the Gregg County Sheriff’s Department What an amazing story. I included a photoas a field training officer and a member of the SWAT team, and Nikki is a K9 police officer at graph of the ring-finders, Jerry and Will, with a city in Joe’s county of operations. Congratulathese notes. (Editor’s Note: An article about this By now, I hope everyone has recovered from also appears in the Alumni News section of this tions, guys! Joe finished his master’s degree in criminal justice from Boston University earlier our reunion and is looking forward to our 10- Review.)

Robert Kelly reported in from Afghanistan in this year, and he has started teaching at the re- year Reunion.

Jake Vishneski graduated from Ranger School August, and hopefully by the time these notes gional police academy since then. He just recently accepted a position as an adjunct professor in the this past March and earned his M.B.A. from reach your home, Rob has safely returned to U.S. criminal justice department at a local university. William and Mary in August. His wife, Susan, soil. At the time of this writing, Rob was at FOB a medical school graduate from Eastern Virginia Orgun-E in the East Paktika province, bordering Sounds like it’s been a busy year!

Maury Denton married Rachael Harrell, his Medical School, is completing her residency in Pakistan. He reports that it is pretty active there Ring Figure date, on Aug. 3, 2013. Attending the anesthesiology at Wake Forrest, as Jake is cur- and a “fire support officer’s dream.” Rob is deceremony were BRs Josh Copes, Wayne Hug- rently stationed at Fort Bragg working in the ployed with the 2-14 Infantry, 2nd Brigade, 10th gins, Wes Haynes, Brian Welch, Greg Schwartz Special Operation community. Congrats to the Mountain Division. Brian Sain and Jon Tishman were a part of this battalion previously. The batand also Chris Authier ’06 and Ben Denton ’12. Vishneski family!

The former Ms. Stephanie Mills was married talion XO is Brian Roeder ’98 and the artillery Congratulations, Maury and Rachael!

Dustin Dodge was recently in Afghanistan. He last year on April 30, 2012, to Matt Braisted while platoon leader is Ben Popko ’10. While Rob said that Steve Turner was stationed in Camp they were living in Hawaii. The Braisted family enjoys his work of dropping bombs and shooting Leatherneck with him. Dustin mentioned that got a little bigger when they welcomed Helen artillery on a daily basis, he misses home. Dan they liked to run the perimeter in their red VMI Elizabeth on June 6. Stephanie and family now Boyd is also in Afghanistan serving in Kandahar shorts to scare off the enemy. He wrote that Curt live in Alabama, as Matt is serving on active duty. on an advisory mission before working on retroIvins ’06 and John Mayhew ’06 were stationed Congrats, Stephanie and Matt! grade operations. Zach West is stationed at Fort Devin Millson sent me an interesting story Gordon and he and his wife have welcomed a baby out there as well. I’m glad Dustin made it safely about how he lost his ring off the coast of the boy, Micah, to the family. Stan Cheng is working back stateside recently.

’08

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CLASS NOTES

Class of 2008: Jake and Susan Vishneski at his graduation from Ranger School, March 2013.

Class of 2008: Robert Kelly and Ben Popko ’10, while deployed together in Afghanistan.

Class of 2008: Devin Millson’s ring found by two friends snorkeling off the coast of Key West. See class notes for details.

in Idaho with an F-15 fighter wing and will probably deploy within a year. Paul Childrey is still living in Lynchburg with his family and working for Areva. Thank you Rob for providing quite a few updates and I wish you and Dan safe travels.

Greg Willson checked in from Portsmouth, VA, where he moved back to after graduation and where he worked as a shipping agent. In 2010, he was accepted in the Virginia Pilot Association’s apprenticeship program and in July 2012, he sat for his state pilot’s license, allowing him to pilot ships in and out of Virginia. In September, Greg and the former Ms. Lauren Beck of New Freedom, PA, were married. The wedding was attended by Jake Vishneski, Ryan Nienstedt ’11, Dawson Boyer, Michael Wilson and Dennis Harbin.

Dawson and Michael were groomsmen and Mrs. Vishneski was a bridesmaid. Congrats to Greg and Lauren.

Brett Whitsitt said hello from Afghanistan, where he is deployed as part of SEAL Team SEVEN. This is his second deployment there and his third overall. Stay safe Brett, and look forward to seeing you when you return!

Lauren and I are doing well. I’ve spent most of the summer on the road for work travelling around eastern Pennsylvania and the Havre de Grace area for bridge inspections for a variety of clients. Lauren continues to look for a full-time position as a health and physical education teacher as she works as a substitute. Over the summer, we had the chance to visit with my roommate, Mark Miller ’07, his wife, Mollie, and daughter, Macie, in Chesapeake, VA. It was the first time we’ve seen the Miller family since our wedding last year when Mollie was pregnant with Macie.

A quick reminder, pictures for the Alumni Review paper copy should be at least 1 MB in jpeg format. Please send me any stories or updates you would like to be included. Notes are submitted to VMI on the 15th of February, May and August and on November 1st. Until next time, God bless and Rah Virginia Mil!

’09 Class of 2008: Stephanie Mills Braisted and husband, Matt, skydiving.

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Class of 2008: Helen Elizabeth Braisted, born June 6, 2013.

Bradley Simpson

Brother Rats: I hope this edition this of the Review finds you and your families well. It has been a good couple of months catching up with everyone who sent me notes for this issue.

Andrew Morse received his commission in the United States Coast Guard Reserve on August 2, after finishing Reserve Officer Candidate Indoctrination course at the Coast Guard Academy. He and his wife, Chelsea, are now living in Charlottesville and will be drilling at FORCECOM in Portsmouth.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

’11 Class of 2009: Trent Blackman with the WWII Airborne Demonstration Team.

Blackman is the third from left in the back row.

Christina Stalnaker got married on July 12 to Andres Ibarra. Michael Porter moved from Fort Hood to Fort Huachuca this past spring and is now in his final weeks of the Captain’s Career Course. He and his wife, Kelli, had a new addition to their family – a beautiful baby girl, Mikaela, on June 6. Also, there are congratulations in order for Hubbell McGeorge as he is now engaged to his fiancée, Jenn Scott.

Trent Blackman, a couple months ago, had an exciting adventure when he was at captain’s

Class of 2009: Andrew Morse and wife Chelsea after he received his commission in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserve.

Class of 2009: Finney Kimsey and Reza Eftekhar in Boston, Massachusetts.

2013-Issue 4

school in Oklahoma. He had the opportunity to join the WWII Airborne Demonstration Team as he got to jump out of a WWII period airplane.

This demonstration team helps to inform the public about the war and how soldiers fought from planes. Trent has since graduated from the Army Captains School and has since made the long voyage to Fort Richardson, Alaska, with his wife, Sarah, and two daughters, Maci and Avigail, as well as their dog, Tater.

Earlier this past month, Finney Kimsey and Reza Eftekhar were able to meet up, get a good drink, and enjoy a fine cigar in Boston, MA. Reza and Finney then proceeded to broadcast that picture all over Facebook telling everyone that Delta was the best company on the hill. I think we all know that it was Alpha, gentlemen.

Graham Stolle and Barrett Luxhoj just graduated from Regent University Law School in May of this year. Also, Andrew Rice is down in Virginia Beach Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, and he has found out that he passed the bar exam earlier in the summer. Graham and Barrett are awaiting their results from the bar exam, and they will have to wait until October. Kyle Johnson, I heard, graduated from law school as well, has taken the Ohio bar exam, and is awaiting those results. I had the opportunity to meet up with Stephen Nichols in Arlington National Cemetery when I had service up there earlier in August.

But due to the heavy load of services that he was helping, we were only able to exchange text messages back and forth before he had to head out for the day’s services.

Thank you again, everyone, for sending in your notes. I look forward to hearing from more of you in the upcoming months. Please feel free to send me notes anytime, either to my e-mail or through Facebook. Also, please, when you move update your address. If you need help doing so, I am more than willing to help. I want everyone to see what great things our class is doing. As always Godspeed and stay classy 2009!

Allen McCown

If there is one word that can be used to describe the authentic cadet experience, that word is adversity. Over the past two and a half years, I have truly come to understand the phrase “adversity breeds solidarity.” From the highest of highs to the lowest of lows, Brother Rats have been there to share the burden or celebrate the victory. Thanks go to everyone who has been there, reached out, attended a wedding or otherwise supported another BR. I encourage no one to forget the importance of a phone call or the importance of catching up with someone else. What sets us apart is our bond, and throughout the time since we have left the “I,” we have lived the bond to its fullest.

If you had asked me a year ago, I never thought I would type these words: Hunter Davis is expected to make a full recovery and is 90 percent back to normal. After falling from the sky and denting a runway, he is back in the Air Force and finishing up flight training for the MQ9 Reaper. After training, Hunter will head to Cannon AFB for the 33rd Special Ops Squad. Despite his brush with death, Hunter has also taken up paragliding, I mean, what’s the worst that can happen?

I got another update from Ryan Buell. Ryan is still teaching tactical and defense shooting courses. Although it has been a long process, he is signing an enlistment contract to the United States Army. Best of luck in your endeavors, Ryan!

Adam Kruithof had great news to share – he is now married. Adam married Brittany in Greenville, SC, at Furman University. Adam’s groomsmen included Ermin Mujezinovic, Colin Miller, Kyle Drumheller and in attendance were Ryan Barefoot, Justin Topping, Caleb Boyer and Cabell Willis ’14. After the wedding, Adam and Brittany honeymooned in St. Lucia and enjoyed some time in the tropical sunshine by the beach.

Justin Topping reported he just finished his master’s degree at William and Mary and is now working as a junior portfolio manager for Palladium Investment Advisors. Justin just moved to Suffolk to begin his new job. Congratulations, Justin! Chris Gingrich is on the other end of the spectrum about to begin graduate school. After working for L-3 Communications since graduation, and very much enjoying it, Chris is now returning to school at University of Pittsburgh where he now lives.

Shane Wilkinson also recently traveled to Jordan to continue his language training. He said it was an incredible experience and greatly helped his language skills. Shane is now finishing up his training at the Defense Language Institute

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CLASS NOTES

’12

Class of 2011: Shane Wilkinson in Jordan. in California. Two other international travelers in our class include Chris Newcomb and Brian Skiff. As part of Operation Shared Accord, both recently traveled to South Africa to build a partnership with the South African Defense Force.

The two managed to have a little bit of fun and enjoyed their time in Africa more than Vinnie Do has enjoyed his. Brian and Chris will be replacing Vinnie in the horn of Africa soon, though.

Brent Jones was happy to let me know that he managed to graduate this past December and is now working as a software engineer in Maryland, specifically on UAV technology used by the Army and Marines. Brent is also in the process of training a puppy he just got.

After a very hot, muggy summer in D.C., Matt Radi and Tyler Pumphrey managed a trip out to Coronado, CA, along with Matt’s fiancée, Hannah. While they were out there, they paid a visit to Aaron Weiland. Aaron is in the middle of training with the Navy and Tyler reported he looked well, despite the state of his feet. Keep it up, Aaron! Tyler and Matt had a great trip and said it was much needed time away from Capitol Hill.

As for me, it has been a busy summer moving to Charlottesville and beginning a new job. I did carve out some time to connect with the local VMI alumni chapter. I highly encourage you to do the same, regardless of location; I know you can find some time to catch up with some fellow Keydets.

It was well worth the time, and that is what makes the brotherhood of the ring so strong.

That’s all for these notes, but it is never too late to send me an update. I hope you all are well, soon enough we will be celebrating our Rat’s graduation. How the time does fly. I hope to see you there.

Rah Virginia Mil, Allen McCown

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Bruce Howard

BRs, I hope everyone is doing well. Here are a few updates since last time: Robert Main was stationed at Fort Sill, OK, for Field Artillery BOLC. He will be moving to Fort Bliss, Texas, in the fall.

Chad Sussman is working as a Foreign Service Officer in the Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs. He will likely be moving overseas within the next year. Also, congratulations are in order as Chad was married on July 5, 2013.

Karter Rivera is working for Carter Machinery back in Norfolk. I know he is glad to be back in the 757, so if you’re living in the area let him know. Good luck and congratulations on the job with Caterpillar.

Glenn Copenhaver has moved to Moscow, Russia, where he will be teaching English. If you get a chance send him an e-mail. Good luck, Glenn.

Brian Pool married Charlotte Hudnutt last September, and they are currently planning their move to Quantico, VA. Best of luck to you, Brian, and anyone else who is preparing their Marine Corps training.

Stewart Wilkinson was married in June, and he and his wife, Amanda, are now living in Lexington. Stew continues his work for the Foundation at VMI, so if you’re in Lexington, drop in and see

him. Again, congratulations Stew and Amanda on your wedding and new life as a married couple.

I wish you the best.

That’s the latest for this edition. Thanks again and until next time.

’13

Charles P. Jones

Brother Rats, I hope this letter finds everyone enjoying his or her first summer away from the Institute. Charlie Jones is currently at Army basic training and will go to OCS after that. Pete Kniesler touched base to let me know that he, along with Anne Marie Ngotho, Ken Witzman, John Ruhl and Mike Joyce, are all at Fort Leonard Wood for Army training. I spent a night in Richmond, VA, with Thomas McConnell, Jackson Sain and Brian Bullock earlier in the summer. Tom is enjoying his job at Moseley Architects. Brian and Jackson are working at VDOT. Congratulations are in order for Hunter Wood who tied for second place in “Maine’s Fittest,” a Crossfit competition and for placing second at Crossfit 321’s “Summer Throwdown.”

To everyone starting graduate work or finishing up his or her few remaining undergrad credits, good luck in the fall semester. As always, feel free to get in touch with any of the class agents, if you want an update sent out.

Class of 2012: From left, Adrian Dominguez, Bruce Howard, Daniel Kitchen ’14, Daniel Welsh ’10, Matt Seinfeld ’13, Amanda and Stewart Wilkinson, Blake McCauley ’15, Dallas Disbro, Chase Barnett ’14, Brandon Gary and Graham Neal.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

CLASS NOTES

BIRTHS COLEMAN – A son, William Mike, to Cheryl and William E. Coleman III ’91 on May 29, 2013.

HOFF – A daughter, Sophia Belle, to Laura and R. Christian Hoff ’96 on May 17, 2013.

CORRELL – A daughter, Coverly Anne, to Katherine and B. Alexander Correll Jr. ’05 in March 2013.

KEPKA – A daughter, Alexandra, to Jennifer and Maciek J. Kepka ’05 on Nov. 25, 2012.

LYLES – A son, Joshua Michael II, to Jeanette and Joshua M. Lyles ’05 on July 5, 2013.

MARRIAGES WILSON – Liep Thi Pham to James G. Wilson ’67 on Jan. 18, 2013.

CHALKLEY – Jennie McMenemy to W. Scott Chalkley ’02 on May 31, 2013.

FERRARA – Susan Slopek to Thomas W. Ferrara ’05 on Oct. 6, 2012.

KEPKA – Jennifer Becker to Maciek J. Kepka ’05 on Sept. 29, 2012.

MELTON – Courtney Horton to G. Benjamin Melton ’05 on March 23, 2013.

MILLER – Joy Giglio to Bradley P. Miller ’05 on March 30, 2013.

MILLS – Stephanie A. Mills ’08 to Matthew Braisted on April 30, 2012.

WILLSON – Lauren Beck to Gregory R. Willson ’08 in September 2012.

CHAPMAN – Anna Wormsbecher to Joel B. Chapman ’12 on June 1, 2013

DEGREES Elijah M. Ward ’01 International Relations University of Oklahoma Norman, Oklahoma Summer 2013

M.A.

J.D. James C. Driggs ’05 Law University of Richmond School of Law Richmond, Virginia May 2013

TROY – A daughter, Clare Madeline, to Adrean and Andrew M. Troy ’05 on July 13, 2013.

Class of 2001: At the Aug. 3, 2013, wedding reception honoring Agda and Tom Sebrell ’01 were, from left, Taylor Mawyer, Mike Andriliunas, Sebrell, Parker Reeves, Thera “Top” Palmer and Richard Bruce.

MILLS – A daughter, Helen Elizabeth, to Stephanie Mills ’08 Braisted and Matthew Braisted on June 6, 2013.

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 2013-Issue 4

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 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 Edwin F. DeBerry ‘40

April 27, 1914 June 29, 1914 Aug. 28, 1914 Nov. 13, 1914 Feb. 5, 1915 July 26, 1915 Feb. 26, 1916 Aug. 9, 1916 Sept. 7, 1916 Oct. 6, 1916 Dec. 23, 1916 April 3, 1917

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PROVISIONAL APPOINTMENTS Appointee’s Name

Alumnus-Class

Relationship

Kenneth R. Reeder ’63

Grandfather

James J. Schaffer III ’77

Father

Evelyn Nicole Northcraft

E. Lane Whitley ’934 Ernest C. Hudgins Jr. ’933 Kenneth R. Reeder ’63 Kenneth R. Reeder ’63

Great-grandfather Great-great-uncle Grandfather Grandfather

2035

2020 Hannah Beckley Simonson

2023 Abraham Lane Barkett Jack Reeder Eagleburger Chloe Adams Simonson

Kenneth R. Reeder ’63

Grandfather

Bruce A. Walls ’78

Grandfather

2029 Austin Bryce Tunstall

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Relationship

Kenneth R. Reeder ’63

Grandfather

David P. Northcraft ’73 Daniel P. Northcraft ’04

Grandfather Father

Chapman E. Berry

Chapman Berry ’50B

Grandfather

William Mike Coleman

William E. Coleman III ’91

Father

Tyler Charles Johnson

Christopher W. Mision ’03

Uncle

Katherine Marika Rawles

Robert B. Gregory ’69

Grandfather

Phoebe Elise Reeder

Kenneth R. Reeder ’63

Grandfather

William Ware Smith IV

William W. Smith Sr. ’926

Great-grandfather

William W. Smith Jr. ’62

Grandfather

Madelyn Pearl Reeder

2033

2026 Craig Matthew Eagleburger

Alumnus-Class

2032

2021 Casey D. Schaffer

Appointee’s Name

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

TAPS TAPS The Honorable Harry F. Byrd Jr. ’35

Polytechnic Institute and State University.

He is survived by his wife, Sarah Bissell Windham; son, Thomas B. Windham; daughter, Sarah W. Hunt (Brian); and grandchildren, Joshua, Emily, Katherine, Elizabeth, Rebecca and John Hunt.

Daniel F. Flowers ’40

George Donald Florence ’48A of Lilburn, Georgia, died on June 14, 2013. He was 86.

Florence matriculated from Birmingham, Alabama, and attended VMI for two years before attending the U.S. Naval Academy where he earned a bachelor of science degree. He held a master of arts degree from George Washington University.

He is survived by his daughters, Deborah Pianka and Donna Blaine.

He was predeceased by his wife, Frances Tompkins Florence.

U.S. State Senator Harry Flood Byrd Jr. ’35 of Winchester, Virginia, died on July 30, 2013.

He was 98.

His obituary appears in the front section of this Alumni Review issue.

Daniel Fort Flowers ’40 of Houston, Texas, died on July 29, 2013. He was 93.

His obituary appears in the front section of this Alumni Review issue.

Ernest L. Keppel ’42

Ernest Ludwig Keppel ’42 of Richmond, Virginia, died on June 20, 2013. He was 92.

Keppel matriculated from Richmond and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Marilyn “Tish” Keppel; children, Deans Keppel, Merritt Keppel (Vicki), Margot Keppel Fritts (James), Mark Keppel (Andrea Grayson) and John Keppel; sister, Ruth Hagerman; grandchildren, Lindsey K. Hayes, Josie K. Russell, Benjamin Keppel, Tricia Keppel, Madeleine K. Camozzo, Marshall Keppel, Katherine Keppel, Emily Keppel, Nathaniel Keppel, Meredith Keppel and William Keppel; and great-grandchild, Eloise Ivey Russell.

Salvatore J.D. Morena ’44

Salvatore Joseph Dominic Morena ’44 of Yorba Linda, California, died on May 21, 2013. He was 90.

Morena matriculated from New York, New York, and graduated from VMI With Distinction, earning a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering.

He is survived by his children, Matthew, Mark and Melinda.

Robert W. Williams ’45

Robert William Williams ’45 of Orlando, Florida, died on Feb. 2, 2012. He was 89.

Williams matriculated from Albany, New York, and attended VMI for two years. He earned his bachelor of science and master of arts degrees from Columbia University.

He is survived by his wife, Shirley; sons, Russell and Richard; daughters, Patricia Schuenzel (Peter) and Pamela Williams; grandchildren, Jennifer Van Santvoord, Robert Cross and Adelyn Schuenzel; and greatgrandchildren, Jackson and Ella.

A.B. Windham Jr. ’45

A.B. Windham Jr. ’45 of Greenville, South Carolina, died on June 3, 2013. He was 89.

Windham matriculated from Petersburg, Virginia, and attended VMI for two years. He held a bachelor of science degree from Virginia

2013-Issue 4

G. Donald Florence ’48A

Troy, Michigan, died on July 22, 2013. He was 85.

Millimet matriculated from North Bergen, New Jersey, and earned a bachelor of science degree in pre-med from VMI. He held a master of science degree from the USAF Institute of Technology, as well as the American Technical University.

He is survived by his wife, Sonia Comora Millimet; daughters, Kathi Wagner (Robert) and Elizabeth Blake; son, Scott Millimet (Janet); grandchildren, R.J. and Cori Wagner and Sara, Mark and Hannah Millimet; and sisters, Lorraine Simon and Rita Levy.

Thomas W. diZerega ’49B

Thomas William diZerega ’49B of Marshall, Virginia, died on July 19, 2013. He was 85. diZerega matriculated from Middleburg, Virginia, and attended VMI for one year. He earned a bachelor of arts degree from Paul L. Applin Jr. ’48B Wichita State University and a Paul Livingston Applin Jr. ’48B bachelor of laws degree from of White Marsh, Virginia, died on diZerega ’49B George Washington University.

May 3, 2013. He was 85.

He is survived by his daughter, Applin matriculated from Fort Worth, Texas, and earned a bachelor of arts Mary Bryan DeBerry, and three grandchildren. diZerega was preceded in death by his wife, degree in liberal arts from VMI. He held a master of science degree from Shippensburg Mary Howe Glascock diZerega.

University.

He is survived by his wife, Regina Gerstman; Edward P. Davis ’49C children, Judy W. Applin, David L. Applin Retired Col. Edward Parks Davis ’49C, (Anne) and Patricia I. Kellogg (Michael); USA, of Milford, Connecticut, died on May grandchildren, Flip Grey, Gloria Beth Pagan, 8, 2013. He was 84.

Hannah T. Kellogg, Rebecca A. Applin, Ryan Davis matriculated from Lexington, VirL. Applin and Mark D. Applin; great-grand- ginia, and earned a bachelor of arts degree children, Ciara I. Grey, Josalynne S. Pagan, in history from VMI. Ahomeah N. Perry and Leonardo M. Pagan; He is survived by his wife, Rosemarie; and sister, Louise Applin Lawless. daughters, Elizabeth Davis and Susan Michel He was preceded in death by his first wife, (Sean); granddaughter, Elizabeth Michel; Sally Applin. stepchildren, Alan Listenes (Maureen), Kathleen Steinberg (Paul) and Jennifer Fleischer (Robert); and seven step-grandchildren.

William C. Ruffin Jr. ’48B Col. Davis was predeceased by his first William Cain “Buck” Ruffin Jr. ’48B, M.D., of Gainesville, Florida, died on June 30, 2013. wife, JoeAnn, and his sister, Edith Prillaman.

He was the grandson of George A. Derbyshire He was 86.

Ruffin matriculated from Fort Lauderdale, ’899, who died on Mar. 23, 1961, and the Florida, and attended VMI for one year. He nephew of Scott Shipp Huger ’922, who died earned his bachelor’s and doctor of medicine on Jan. 16, 1972. degrees from the University of North Carolina.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Manuel Charles W. Ironmonger Sr. ’51 Ruffin; children, Ann Cricket Dillard Sampson Charles Wesley Ironmonger Sr. ’51 of Vir(John), William C. Ruffin III, Thomas Brown ginia Beach, Virginia, died on May 31, 2013.

Ruffin (Anne) and G. Wilder Ruffin (Laura); He was 83. grandchildren, John Cain Sampson, Wilder Ironmonger matriculated from Norfolk, VirSampson, William Ruffin IV, Robert Ruffin, ginia, and only attended VMI for a short time.

Caroline Ruffin, Thomas Ruffin Jr., Bennett He is survived by his wife, Dorothy; sons, Ruffin, Wilder Ruffin Jr. and Desmond Ruffin; Charles “Chuck” and Steve Ironmonger; and brother, Dalton Dillard Ruffin. daughter, Lynne Riner; grandchildren, Sarah,

Stanley Millimet ’49A

Retired Col. Stanley Millimet ’49A, USCGR, of

Emily, Michelle, Laura and Joseph; sister, Jean Richie Trowbridge; and brother, Harry Lee Ironmonger Jr.

137

TAPS Robert R. Laville ’51

Robert Randolph Laville ’51 of Breaux Bridge, Louisiana, died on June 23, 2013.

He was 83.

Laville matriculated from Plaquemine, Louisiana, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in biology from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Lois Theriot Laville; son, Robert Laville Jr.; daughters, Mary Laville (Matt Mitchell) and Marie “LeeLee” Laville; grandchildren, Ashley Laville LeBlanc, Victoria Laville, Kathryn Mitchell, Elizabeth Mitchell and Carolina Mitchell; sisters, Ann Scharfenberg (John) and Betty Bagot; sister’s-in-law, Anne Mestayer Laville and Anne Golsan Laville; and brother-in-law, Vance J. Theriot, M.D. He was preceded in death by his brother, Louis Parkerson Laville Jr. ’49B, M.D., who died on Dec. 11, 1992.

Thomas L. Lyne Jr. ’52

Retired Col. Thomas Laurie Lyne Jr. ’52, USAF, of Wetumpka, Alabama, died on May 12, 2013. He was 82.

Lyne matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and attended VMI for two years.

He is survived by his daughters, Linda Hammond (Richard) and Sharon Lyne Sharkey (Dave); sons, Thomas Laurie Lyne III and Craig P. Lyne (Sheryl); brother, Chris Lyne (Sylvia); grandchildren, Joey Cupido III (Christy), Melodi Jones and Gracie Lyne; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Jane Lyne.

A. Kolbet Schrichte ’53

Albert Kolbet Schrichte ’53 of Washington, D.C., died on June 11, 2013. He was 81.

Schrichte matriculated from Indianapolis, Indiana, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Lynn Catterton Schrichte; children, Christopher Schrichte ’82, A. Frederic “Fritz” Schrichte ’90, Madeleine Cantoni and Katharine Yasin; and nine grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Pierre Schrichte ’57, who died on Oct. 1, 2009.

Thomas K. Whitesel ’53

Retired Lt. Col. Thomas Kelly Whitesel ’53, USA, of Springfield, Virginia, died on May 3, 2013. He was 81.

Whitesel matriculated from Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his companion, Kathie Featherstone; children from his first marriage, Thomas Whitesel, Elizabeth Parrott and Laura Killion; stepdaughters, Fay Carter

138

and Cheri Hennesy; 11 grandchildren; and one great-granddaughter.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Ann Cooper Whitesel, and his second wife, Nita Fay Hobbs.

Clement L. Woodward ’53

Retired Col. Clement Lee Woodward ’53, AUS, of Richmond, Virginia, died on June 10, 2013. He was 81.

Woodward matriculated from Richmond and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Betty Haney Woodward; son, William Overton Woodward ’92 (Leslie); grandson, William O. Woodward Jr., granddaughter, Catherine G. Woodward; sister, Elizabeth W. Sale; sister-in-law, Barbara D. Haney; and brother-in-law, George W. Haney.

He was preceded in death by his uncle, William T. Clement ’914, who died on Oct. 17, 1955.

William G. Ellis Jr. ’55

William George Ellis Jr. ’55, M.D., of Munroe Falls, Ohio, died on May 14, 2013.

He was 79.

Ellis matriculated from Steubenville, Ohio, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in biology from VMI. He held a doctor of medicine degree from the Medical College of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Grace Dorene Hickman Ellis; children, Susan, William III (Lisa), Matthew T. Welsh (Nikki), Joshua Meneer and Jennifer Fleishour; grandchildren, Sam Warro, Kennedy and Abbie Welsh, Tyler, Elle and Logan Fleishour, and Carson Bryan; and sister, Mary Jo Loftus.

John J. Dickinson Sr. ’56

John Jackson “Amos” Dickinson Sr. ’56 of Richmond, Virginia, died on July 21, 2013.

He was 79.

Dickinson matriculated from Cape Charles, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from VMI. He held a bachelor of laws degree from Washington and Lee University.

He is survived by his wife, Lane Abercrombie Dickinson; sons, John J. Dickinson Jr. (Sarah) and Charles Lane Dickinson (Kathryn); grandchildren, Thomas J. Dickinson and Catherine Lea Dickinson; brother, William Andrew Dickinson ’52, M.D.; and sisters, Margaret Jane Dickinson and Barbara Ann Dickinson.

Virgil A. Walston Jr. ’56

Virgil Alfred Walston Jr. ’56 of Moulton, Texas, died on May 15, 2013. He was 78.

Walston matriculated from Houston, Texas, and attended VMI for one year. He held a

bachelor of science degree in geology from the University of Texas.

He is survived by his wife, Suzanne Porter Walston; sons, Bruce Burleson Walston, Andrew Ellington Walston and Robert Glenn Walston; and sisters, Dorothy W. Alcorn and Sally W. Doehring.

Gaylord S. Williams ’56

Gaylord Stone Williams ’56, M.D., of Charlottesville, Virginia, died on Aug. 6, 2013. He was 78.

Williams matriculated from Wytheville, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in biology from VMI. He held a doctor of medicine degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his sons, Jack Williams (Mary Kay) and Chris Williams; sister, Virginia O’Connor; grandchildren, Kevin and Brian Williams; and dear friend, Jane Martinez.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia “Jennie” Nelson Williams, and two sisters, Bootsy Spence and Nancy Barnett.

Michael M. Irvine Jr. ’59

Retired Lt. Col. Michael Martin Irvine Jr. ’59, USA, of Lincoln, California, died on June 25, 2013. He was 75.

Irvine matriculated from Sausalito, California, and earned a bachelor of science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Karen, and daughters, Ann, Margaret and Virginia.

James J. True Sr. ’59

James Jacob True Sr. ’59 of Sheshquin Township, Pennsylvania, died on July 16, 2013. He was 75.

True matriculated from Lowber, Pennsylvania, and earned a bachelor of science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Sarah Scholl True; sons, Jamie True and Christopher True; daughter, Jennifer Leach; granddaughters, Chelsea and Cassidy Bryan; brother, John Charles True; sister, Karen Detar; and step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Ronald C. True, and a sister, Elaine Serman.

Donald W. Webb ’60

Donald Woodford Webb ’60 of Vero Beach, Florida, died on July 19, 2013. He was 74.

Webb matriculated from Whitesburg, Kentucky, and attended VMI for one year. He held a bachelor of arts degree from Georgetown College and a juris doctor degree from the University of Kentucky.

He is survived by his wife, Julie Howser Webb; son, Donald W. Webb Jr. (Kelli); grandson, Donald W. Webb III; granddaughter, Greer Gabrielle; mother, Elizabeth Combs Webb; brother, Ralph Dudley Webb (Marla); sisters, Debbie Ann Howard

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

TAPS (Danny) and Judy W. Lowry; and cousin, Cecil H. Webb Jr. ’52.

Jones; brother, Darden Watkins Jones Jr.; and mother-in-law, Lucienne Kohnke.

Samuel C. Morris III ’65

William G. Davis ’68

He is survived by his wife, Anita Stratton Moore, and sons, Robert M. Moore Jr. and Patrick Briscoe Moore.

William Goff Davis ’68 of High Point, North Thomas R. Kovach Jr. ’79 Samuel Cary Morris III ’65 of Port Jefferson, Retired Lt. Col. Thomas Raymond Kovach New York, died on July 23, 2013. He was 70. Carolina, died on July 7, 2013. He was 66.

Davis matriculated from New Castle, Dela- Jr. ’79, USMC, of Spotsylvania, Virginia, died Morris matriculated from Denville, New Jersey, and earned a bachelor of science de- ware, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in on May 9, 2013. He was 56.

Kovach matriculated from Monessen, Penngree in civil engineering from VMI. He held history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Janice sylvania, and earned a bachelor of science a master of science degree from Holmes Davis; son, William G. degree in civil engineering from VMI. Rutgers University and a doctor of Davis Jr.; daughter, Emily Holmes He is survived by his wife, Mary; sons, science degree from the University Davis; mother, Oleta Collins Thomas Russel Kovach (fiancée Nina Joson), of Pittsburgh.

Davis; and sister, Roberta Davis Stephen Lawrence Kovach (fiancée Melissa He is survived by his wife, Shafer (Thomas).

Andrew) and Sgt. Jeffrey Raymond Kovach Stephanie Rose Morris; children, He was preceded in death by his (Jihee); mother, Evelyn Novotny; stepfather, Jennifer Arcaro (Canyon), Daniel father-in-law, Henry B. Holmes Frank Novotny; brothers, Michael Kovach Morris (Gina) and Laura Stengel III ’41, who died on Aug. 5, 1964, (Karen) and Paul Kovach; and grandson, (Paul); grandchildren, Cassandra and his stepfather-in-law, Matthew Chancellor William Kovach. and Katelyn Arcaro, Lucille and R. Beebe ’38, who died on March Marguerite Morris, and Samuel 17, 2009.

C. Morris IV; sister, Holly Morris Robert A. Savage Jr. ’81 Davis ’68 Beach; brothers, Michael (Ann), Robert Albert “Coke” Savage Jr. ’81 of MelRobin (Patti) and Morgan (Dawn); fa, Virginia, died on July 12, 2013. He was 54.

Robert D. Smith Jr. ’69 brother-in-law, Lawrence Rose (Constance); Savage matriculated from Atlantic, Virginia, Robert Deaton Smith Jr. ’69 of Knoxville, and sisters-in-law, Catherine Zackey and Amy Tennessee, died on June 20, 2013. He was 65. and earned a bachelor of arts degree in ecoWissinger (David).

Smith matriculated from Norton, Virginia, nomics from VMI. He was preceded in death by one sister, and graduated from VMI With Distinction, He is survived by his wife, Glynis Bailey Bonnie Morris Reissner, and brothers-in-law, earning a bachelor of science degree in biology. Savage; daughter, Kyesha Savage; mother, Adam Reissner and Christopher Rose.

He held a doctor of medicine degree from the Galina Savage; sisters, Sheila S. Goodman, Sharon Savage and Coretta S. Ellison (AnUniversity of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Chong Smith; thony); and brother, Tony Palmer.

Tillman P. Stone Jr. ’65 Tillman Price Stone Jr. ’65 of Dallas, Texas, children, Joyce Lee Smith and Robert D. Smith III; sister, Belinda McCall (Robert); and niece, Roland C. Staiano ’84 died on May 12, 2013. He was 69.

Roland Charles Staiano ’84 of Stone matriculated from Birmingham, Sarah Fortney (Stephen).

Kent, Washington, died on June 11, Alabama, and attended VMI for one year. He 2013. He was 49.

Robert M. Moore ’74 held a bachelor of arts degree from Sewanee Staiano matriculated from Lake Robert Michael Moore ’74 of University of the South and a juris doctor Ronkonkoma, New York, and earned Fairfax, Virginia, died on June 3, degree from Samford University. a bachelor of science degree in civil He is survived by his wife, Martha Miller 2013. He was 60. engineering from VMI. Moore matriculated from Mount Stone; daughter, Elizabeth Stone; sister, MarHe is survived by his wife, Laura garet Friedman (Richard); brother, Bill Stone; Holly, New Jersey, and graduated Carillo Staiano; children by his first sister-in-law, Mary Gilbert; and brother-in-law, from VMI With Distinction, earnwife, Fabio Roland and Giovanna; ing a bachelor of science degree in John Miller. stepson, Nathan Smiley; father, civil engineering. He held a master Frank Staiano; a brother; and three of science degree in national reWilliam P. Meisel ’66 sisters.

Staiano ’84 William Philip Meisel ’66 of Vancouver, sources strategy from the Industrial College of the Air Force.

Washington, died on April 4, 2013. He was 69.

Meisel matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Betty Meisel; three sons; four grandchildren; and a brother.

Edgar R. Jones ’67

Edgar Rawlings Jones ’67 of Williamsburg, Virginia, died on July 11, 2013. He was 68.

Jones matriculated from Franklin, Virginia, and earned a bachelor of arts degree in history from VMI. He held a master of business administration degree from Old Dominion University and a juris doctor degree from Western State University.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Kohnke

2013-Issue 4

Thomas R. Kovach Jr. ’79 was interred at Arlington National Cemetery. Photo courtesy Class Agent Michael Ogden ’79.

139

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

Directors at Large

Chief Executive Officer Gregory M. Cavallaro ’84

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

Terms Expire June 30, 2014 Terms Expire June 30, 2016 Kenneth Herbert ‘81 kherbert81@cox.net Joel W. Andrus ‘04 jandrus@kemperconsult.com Dallas Clark ‘99 clarkdb@vmi.edu A. Damon Williams ‘90 damonwilliams@msn.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

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/Northern Ohio

Daniel J. Fitzgerald ’89 Stephen J. Barcik III ’85 Christopher L. Haney ’00 Jeffrey D. Vordermark ’79 Robert L. Manteuffel ’77

Daniel.Fitzgerald@hdrinc.com steve.barcik@htds2.com haneycl@yahoo.com vordermark@juno.com rlmanteuffel@sbcglobal.net

Thomas R. Shaw ’78 Jeffrey L. Minch ’73 Donald A. Noschese Jr. ’92 Todd J. Jacobs ’90

Steven P. Weiss ’86 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

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 BSkusa@kforce.com

Steven P. Weiss ’86 J. Micah North ’00 Robert C. Polk ’61 Mark A. Benvenuto ’83

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 Southeast

C. Patrick Haddock ’00 vmitranspo@ hotmail.com

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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

Trent L. Boggs ’83 Joseph S. Howard III ’97 John D. Christie ’59

Hugh R. Hill ’85 M. Douglass Payne ’73 David R. Yockel Jr. ’90 Stephen M. Chiles ’89

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

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

Terrin R. Tucker ’95 Charles L. Toomey ’74 Jeffrey B. Morrison ’99 Michael S. Anderson ’88 John Moder ’98

President’s E-mail

Chapter Representative

tuckertr9@hotmail.com toomeyl@pinehurst.net roo1999@gmail.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

Charles R. Schindler Jr. ’91 Alan G. Soltis ’79

vmimwc@comcast.net al@landordbros.com

Christopher M. Boswell ’00 J. Patrick Henderson ’99

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 Michael Ogden ’79 VMI79ClassAgent @aol.com

Region XI Metro D.C.

G. Anthony Esteve ’00 anthonyesteve @gmail.com

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

2013-Issue 4

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

Vaipot Srinual ’72 Ching-Pu Chen ’85

141

ALUMNI NEWS ALUMNI NEWS Maj. Gen. Carroll Thackston ’55, USA (Ret), who passed away in February 2013, received posthumous recognition when a South Boston, Virginia, National Guard armory was named in his honor.

The dedication ceremony was held on July 13, 2013, and celebrated Thackston’s military career. He served for more than 40 years in the U.S. Army and 35 years in the Virginia National Guard. After leaving the National Guard, where he served as adjutant general, Thackston was active in his community. He was elected mayor of South Boston in 2004 and held the position until his death.

The tribute to Thackston includes a plaque in his name at the armory. Gov. Bob McDonnell said Thackston was “a truly great, loyal and devoted Virginia patriot” whose “legacy to the Virginia National Guard, Southside Virginia and the Virginia Military Institute live on.”

He is survived by his wife, Frances Anne; three sons, Mark, Michael and Jon; and four grandchildren.

Thackston matriculated from Concord, Virginia, and earned a bachelor’s degree in history from VMI. Brig. Gen. N. Michael Bissell ’61, USA (Ret), retired in June 2013 from his position as commandant of cadets at the Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership (VWIL) at Mary Baldwin College, the only allfemale cadet corps in the country.

Prior to VWIL, Bissell was commandant of cadets at VMI and was named to oversee the assimilation of women into VMI. During his service in the U.S. Army, Bissell received high honors, including the Distinguished Service Cross, Distinguished Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit with Oak Leaf Cluster, Bronze Star with V Device, Air Medal with V Device and 26 Oak Leaf Clusters, and Purple Heart. He was awarded the Gold Order of Saint Michael by the Army Aviation Assocation of America and was inducted into the U.S. Army Aviation Hall of Fame.

While in Vietnam, he was nominated for the Congressional Medal of Honor.

Bissell matriculated from Marshfield, Massachusetts, earning a bachelor’s degree in history from VMI. He also holds a master’s degree from the University of Missouri.

142

Josiah Bunting III ’63, VMI’s superintendent from 1995 to 2002, has been elected chairman of The English-Speaking Union (ESU) of the United States.

According to a press release, The ESU of Bunting ’63 the United States “is a non-profit, non-political educational organization that celebrates English as a shared language to foster global understanding and good will by providing educational and cultural opportunities for students, educators and members.” Touting more than 6,000 members nationwide, The ESU has chapters across the country as well as a local chapter in Lexington, Virginia. Bunting, who was superintendent at VMI during its co-ed transition, assumed his role as ESU chairman upon the resignation of former congresswoman Patricia Scott Schroeder.

Bunting matriculated from Litchfield, Connecticut, and is a Distinguished VMI graduate with a bachelor’s degree in English. He has a master’s degree from Oxford University, a doctor of literatures degree from Hampden-Sydney College and

Washington College, as well as a doctor of humanities degree from Catawba College.

On July 2, 2013, in Charleston, South Carolina, members of the city council voted in favor of a resolution dedicating the Visitor Center Transit Mall in honor of Howard R. Chapman ’68. Chapman is the executive director of the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority, and he has served Charleston in a variety of transportation roles through the years.

Much of his work includes efforts to develop hurricane emergency response planning.

Chapman matriculated from Fairfax, Virginia, and received his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is a certified professional engineer and holds a master’s degree from the University of South Carolina.

After Richard K. Rankin ’68 retired as a U.S. Army colonel, he began teaching economics at the Iolani School in Honolulu, Hawaii. In May 2013, a team of Iolani students coached by Rankin won the 13th Annual National Economics Challenge championship. The challenge consists of an oral quiz bowl, testing student comprehension of complex economic topics

Howard Chapman ’68 speaking at his award ceremony.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ALUMNI NEWS gree from UVa, has completed all doctoral coursework in sport psychology at UVa and is a doctoral candidate in educational leadership policy at the University of St. Thomas.

Gines is a fellow of the Higher Education Management Institute at Peabody College, Vanderbilt University and holds a certificate from the Sport Management Institute Executive Program.

Retired Army Col. Richard Rankin ’68, far left, with students from the Iolani School in Honolulu, Hawaii. These students, whom Rankin coached, won the 13th Annual National Economics Challenge championship in May 2013.

and current events. More than 2,500 high school teams competed – a total of 10,200 students – representing 40 states in all.

Rankin matriculated from Greenbelt, Maryland, and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in economics. He went on to earn a master of business administration degree from Shippensburg University and a master’s degree from the University of Texas.

Andrew J. Young ’74, Ph.D., division chief for the Military Nutrition Division at the U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, received The Citation Award from the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) on May 28, 2013. The award is given to those deemed by the ACSM as having made significant contributions to sports medicine and the exercise sciences. Young is recognized as an expert in environmental physiology, and his research has appeared in numerous publications.

Young matriculated from Cockeysville, Maryland, and received a bachelor’s degree in biology from VMI. He also holds a doctorate degree from North Carolina State University.

In January 2013, D. Scott Gines ’83 was named vice president for intercollegiate athletics and campus recreation at Texas A&M UniversityKingsville. Prior to this position, he served as vice president for institu2013-Issue 4

tional advancement from July 2009 to December 2012.

Gines started out as assistant baseball coach at the University of Virginia (UVa) in 1983. One of the youngest Division I head coaches, his 17-year coaching career included 37 professional draft or free agent selections.

He matriculated from Spring Arbor, Michigan, and received a bachelor’s degree in English With Distinction from VMI. He holds a master of education de-

Inside Business magazine has presented John E. Karafa ’84 with a 2013 Entrepreneurial Excellence Award. According to a press release, the award “honors local individuals who have created businesses that are successful, sustainable and growing” in the Hampton Roads, Karafa ’84 Virginia, area. Specifically, Karafa was recognized for his support of construction programs at local military bases.

Karafa is founder, president and majority owner of Leebcor Services, LLC which provides design, construction and renovation services to the U.S. government primarily in the Mid-Atlantic and Southeastern U.S. Karafa started Leebcor Services in 2008, and the company has grown to $30 million in revenue with more than 30 employees.

Karafa matriculated from Macungie, Pennsylvania, and earned a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from VMI.

Andrew J. Young ’74, Ph.D., is pictured above with Dr. Janet Walberg-Rankin, ACSM president.

The John Marshall Law School Alumni Association has presented its 2013 Distinguished Service Award to Capt. Francis J. Del Barto ’88, USAR, for his work with veterans.

Del Barto, who was presented with the award on May 19, 2013, at the Standard Club of Chicago, has donated many hours working as a pro bono attorney, assisting veterans with matters such as disability compensation claim denials. He is an attorney with the law firm Masuda, Funai, Eifert & Mitchell in the Employment, Labor & Benefits Practice Group.

143

ALUMNI NEWS Del Barto matriculated from Mystic Islands, New Jersey, and received a bachelor’s degree in history from VMI. He holds a juris doctor degree and a master of laws degree with honors from John Marshall Law School in Chicago.

Devin P. Millson ’08 has what some might call an unlucky history with rings.

However, like something out of a J.R.R. Tolkien story, the power of the rings could not be undone. Millson lost his VMI class ring in 2007 while tossing a football in the water just off the beach in Key West, Florida. A snorkeler uncovered the Keydet treasure while hunting with a metal detector. He gave the ring to a friend to sell. That friend decided to track down Millson using only the name inscribed on the inside of the ring and some Internet savvy. Nearly six years later on July 8, 2013, coincidentally just one day before his birthday, Millson learned of the ring’s reemergence.

This is not Millson’s only ring recovery story. In fact, it is the second in two years.

In summer 2011, a truck driver stumbled upon Millson’s VMI combat ring in a Columbus, Georgia, parking lot – a ring Millson lost in 2009 while deployed in Iraq. Millson can only speculate how the ring managed to end up in Georgia. “My best guess is a soldier from a neighboring unit found it at the joint Iraqi/American security checkpoint where it was lost and brought the ring back with him, subsequently losing it himself,” said Millson.

The Good Samaritan was able to find Millson using the name inscribed inside

the ring – reversing what Millson had considered another unfortunate loss.

Millson lives in Springfield, Virginia, and is currently transitioning from active duty Army. He is slotted to take command of a support unit in the Virginia National Guard.

He matriculated from Paul VI High School in Fairfax, Virginia, and received a bachelor’s degree in history from VMI.

Patrick S. Pillow ’09 is a student at Union Presbyterian Seminary in Richmond, Virginia, and at the time of this writing, is preparing to pastor Bethany United Methodist Church near Rustburg. An article about Pillow appeared in The News & Advance, a Lynchburg, Virginia, publication.

Pillow matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and received a bachelor’s degree in history from VMI.

Pillow ’09 Prepares to Pastor Church Near Rustburg

Patrick Pillow ’09 pictured here with his grandfather, Rev. C. Douglas Pillow, pastor of Court Street United Methodist Church in Lynchburg, Virginia.

... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ...

Mars Greening by Mark A. Benvenuto ’83. Friesen Press, May 21, 2013, ISBN (hard cover): 978-1-4602-1588-3, ISBN (paperback): 978-1-4602-1589-0 or ISBN (e-book): 978-1-4602-1590-6. Available via Amazon.com or FriesenPress.com.

Human colonies have been established on Mars, after the first manned mission inadvertently began to terraform it. Tony Rust, a young geosurveyor in the New 144

Europa colony, has made a curious discovery. At first glance, it seems to be of little consequence, but has Tony stumbled onto something that could change both his home and his adopted planet forever?

About the Author: Benvenuto matriculated from Henrietta, New York, and majored in chemistry at VMI. He has been a professor of chemistry at the University of Detroit Mercy for 19 years and lives in

Royal Oak, Michigan, with his wife, Marye, and sons, David and Christian. Benvenuto has written hundreds of non-fiction articles, but this is his first science fiction novel.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ALUMNI NEWS Brumley ’94: Creating a Giant Playground for Researchers

by Rich Griset, Contributing Writer

You’re walking down the street in a small city. Everything seems normal; the buildings, streets and roads all look as they should. Then, suddenly, it hits you: Where are all the people?

It might sound like something out of “The Twilight Zone,” but if everything goes according to plan, this vision will soon be a reality. In the middle of the New Mexico desert, Pegasus Global Holdings, LLC, plans to build an uninhabited town that will allow companies and governmental agencies to develop prototypes and evaluate technology more rapidly.

As part of the proposed 12,000acre Center for Innovation, Testing and Design (CITE), the City Lab will serve as a giant playground for researchers to test products and collect data. The CITE aims to be the largest-scale testing and evaluation center in the world, and its possibilities as a proving ground are endless.

Any product that would need the space and infrastructure of a modern city to test can be assessed at CITE without disturbing the day-to-day operations of an actual city.

“It’s a real-world environment in a place where you can come and determine how something is going to behave before it gets in the hands of the user,” explains Rob Brumley ’94, managing director of Pegasus’ defense division. “There is a huge gap between the taxpayer dollar and the development of technology and then the technology getting in the hands of the user.”

To bridge this gap, CITE will allow products to be tested before they hit the real world. Anything from keeping telephone lines in operation during a flood to practicing the emergency response for a mass casualty can be tested here.

The testing area will be modeled after a post-World War II city and use the same materials for highways, buildings and infrastructure to make it as close as possible to the real thing. Water, telecommunications 2013-Issue 4

and even a working power plant will be constructed as part of the project.

“We’re building a mid-sized American town that has an average population size of 50,000 people,” Brumley says. “You’ll have a downtown area, you’ll have urban sprawl and you’ll have a residential area, as well as a more rural one.”

While the project will look like a normal American city above ground, beneath the surface, a lab will allow researchers to monitor the tests taking place in the mock city. Brumley says a broad range

of companies have expressed interest in the facility, and once it’s up and running, it will be his job to manage the different companies using the site.

Though the planned location for CITE has yet to be announced, Brumley says the facility is expected to create at least 350 jobs inside the facility and 3,500 jobs outside of it. The CITE is expected to open its initial phase in late 2014 or early 2015.

After CITE is completed over the course of 10 years, the estimated price tag will reach $1 billion.

For Brumley, his decision to join Pegasus is rooted in his experiences at VMI. Impressed by family friend and VMI alumnus Gen. Edwin Cox ’920, USA, who died in 1977, he resolved to attend VMI

early on. It was the only place he applied, and he received his early appointment in December 1989.

“I was really impressed by the school at a young age,” he says. “When it came time to apply for school, it was the only place I was interested in attending.”

After graduating from VMI with a bachelor of arts degree in military history, Brumley went to work as a doorkeeper for the sergeant at arms of the U.S. Senate. He then took an international internship in Austria at the law firm of Hugel, Dallmann and Partner. His schedule in those days was split in half. In the morning, he translated contracts for the firm Ebert and Juber. In the afternoon, he worked for Raiffeisen Zentral Banc examining public disclosure statements in their Capital Markets Division.

He followed this up by working as a legal assistant and paralegal supervisor for Hunton and Williams.

In 2002, Brumley’s father, Bob, founded Pegasus, a Washington D.C.-based private international technology development firm, and Rob soon found himself using his vacation time traveling to South Korea on behalf of his father’s company. He decided to leave Hunton and Williams and began his current role at Pegasus as managing director of defense and security systems.

Brumley spent 10 years developing technology for the detection and suppression of improvised explosive devices. He holds four patents in this work as an inventor and said he’s very proud of it. When working on those projects, he says, he was always thinking of his Brother Rats.

“I really have enjoyed working in defense and supporting the warfighter on electronic countermeasures,” says Brumley, adding that his time at VMI was crucial for him to become the person he is today. “I learned how to work hard and persevere and saw how that hard work translates to success.

That is certainly a lesson I learned at VMI.” 145

ALUMNI NEWS Hershberger ’95 Brings VMI History to Life Kevin R. Hershberger ’95 manages chaos for a living. So, when a producer approached him about becoming the costume designer for a historical film, with only a month to tailor a plan of attack, Hershberger jumped in as fast as he could.

“I was lucky that I was studying the Battle of New Market and the cadets for 25 years before this,” said Hershberger, who majored in history and international studies at VMI. “I already knew what I needed to bring it all together.”

“Field of Lost Shoes,” filmed in part on Post during summer 2013, is a theatrical interpretation of VMI cadet participation in the Battle of New Market during the Civil War. Hershberger’s charge was to keep the look and feel of the costumes as close to the real thing as possible. No easy task, when nearly every garment for the main actors had to be built from scratch, and time was limited.

Undaunted, Hershberger enlisted his dream team, a group of trusted experts in the field of Civil War uniform reproduction, and began constructing.

“I provided all of my uniforms I already had, which is hundreds of pieces – dresses, suits, clothing, top hats and everything – and then we built a huge stock pile of costumes and uniforms to outfit the soldiers,” said Hershberger. “One day, I dressed people for six hours straight – every day was some sort of chaos. I just tried to bring it under control and make everybody look good.”

One of Hershberger’s fabricators, who drove from North Carolina, went to the VMI Museum and met with Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of museum programs at the Institute. Gibson pulled out the original coatees – the museum has three from that era – and the fabricator took photographs and measurements and built a model coatee to look as close as possible to the originals.

“That project came together very quickly, and things had to happen, in some 146

instances, overnight,” said Gibson. “Kevin really had some high hurdles to cross, with deadlines and putting together all the costuming and props, and from what I saw on the set, he accomplished that very well.”

Hershberger said that he and others working on the film received a lot of help on Post during filming. They borrowed the officers’ plumes from the armory for the cadet officers and many swords and other equipment used in sets built for cadet rooms. Physical Plant even helped with laundry, which, during the summer heat, was key.

“We were lucky to be here the last week that VMI laundry staff was working for the summer,” said Hershberger. “We were able to bring our wools and shirts to the laundry, and they were able to clean and press and have them ready for us every day, which was hugely helpful. It was just great to have that support.”

Hershberger began participating in Civil War reenacting in 1987 and is at the helm of several historical film production companies. A former military intelligence

Kevin Hershberger ’95 on a film set.

officer in the Army, he is founder and president of LionHeart FilmWorks, which has produced several award-winning historical films and documentaries, and HistoricalWardrobe.com, which provides “costumes from 1607 to yesterday.” Hershberger says his DVDs have sold more than a million copies over the past three years.

Telling the story of the VMI cadets and the history of the Institute is something Hershberger has wanted to do since his

Portions of the film “Field of Lost Shoes” were filmed on the VMI Post. Shown above, many streets were covered with mulch to simulate the look of the era.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ALUMNI NEWS own cadetship. He said his work on “Field of Lost Shoes” reignited his determination to make that happen – a project called “Lions of the Hour.”

“I wrote the screenplay for ‘Lions of the Hour’ while I was a cadet,” Hershberger said. “When you’re 21 and going into the Army, the last thing you think is that someone is going to give you $100 million dollars so you can do a movie, but it was always there, and it was always an interest.”

The title for the film was inspired by a quote from John Wise, a cadet in the Corps of 1864, and will tell the real story of the founding of the Institute, the cadets and different battles in the form of a docudrama. Hershberger says an hour-long version will be included on the “Field of Lost Shoes” DVD when it is released.

“The real people [in history] have a hold on me,” said Hershberger. “So, I put all of my company, my mind and my soul into the project, and thankfully, with the help of the crew from ‘Field of Lost Shoes’ and people I met on the movie, all the costumes and props are coming together to make my film.”

Hershberger seeks to film the docudrama in all the actual locations where events originally took place. He said he hopes to use VMI cadets during the filming and encourages alumni involvement, as well.

“It is a unique story in American history, and Kevin certainly has the capability, from the perspective of knowing VMI from inside as a cadet and an alumnus and his abilities with film, to tell that story,” said Gibson. “His work on this recent project was very impressive.”

Adam Volant ’88, executive vice president of The VMI Alumni Association, said projects like Hershberger’s help to illustrate a story that is unique to VMI, and having an alumnus working behind the scenes makes it that much more relevant.

“It would offer a lot of fidelity to the actual New Market story itself,” said Volant. “I think there’s a sizeable appetite for a story like that, for alumni and others who really treasure that important part of our heritage.”

For more information regarding Hershberger’s work or to contact him, visit www. lionheart-filmworks.com, www.vmimovie. com or www.lionsofthehour.com.

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Hershberger Costume Designs

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ALUMNI NEWS Donohue ’02: Back to Life and on the Road to Recovery On April 19, 2013, Richard “Dic” he tackled me to the ground, because he pletely shut down due to the manhunt Donohue ’02 suffered a near fatal knew something was wrong, and he started for the Tsarnaevs. The police officer gunshot wound during a shootout with CPR,” Donohue said. “Other officers from driving the ambulance was able to take Boston Marathon bombing suspects Watertown Police, Massachusetts State back roads and eventually get Donohue to Mount Auburn Hospital.

Dzhokhar and Tamerlan Donohue’s wife, Kim, was Tsarnaev. The bullet severed at home sleeping, along with his right femoral artery and their 7-month-old son, unnicked his right femoral aware of the events unfolding vein, causing him to bleed in Watertown. out almost immediately at “I heard the doorbell, and I the scene. assumed that Dic had forgotten “The only thing I rememhis house key,” Kim Donohue ber is showing up to work at said. “When I opened the about 1:30 p.m. and going door, I obviously knew that to roll call,” Donohue said. something was wrong – as the “The next thing I know, wife of a police officer, when it’s a few days later, and I there’s a police officer at your have tubes in me. I know door, you know something has what happened, because it’s happened to your husband.” been recalled to me so many Donohue’s family headed to times, but because of my inthe hospital, unsure of what to juries, I can only remember expect when they arrived. showing up for work.”

In a Mount Auburn HospiDonohue was on single-oftal publication, Connecting, ficer motor patrol, working Emergency Department Phythe downtown area, when he sician Dr. Heather Studley received a radio call regardstated, “‘We looked at his ing an incident occurring wound, and he wasn’t bleedin Cambridge, an area just ing. He had lost almost all his across the river from his blood – enough that his heart location in Boston. Donohue had stopped.’” responded and arrived at the Doctors worked on Donohue scene where MIT Campus Dic Donohue ’02, his wife, Kim, and their son, Richie. for about 45 minutes, transfusPolice Officer Sean Coling him with multiple units of lier, a friend of Donohue’s from the police academy, had been Police, Boston Police, Harvard University blood, before they finally were able to fatally shot. There, Donohue linked Police and the Watertown Fire Department get a pulse. He went into surgery, where doctors used a procedure called a femoup with another officer, and working all helped out in a collective effort.”

Donohue said the ambulance came in ropopliteal (fem-pop) bypass in which a in conjunction with Cambridge police, vein was taken from his healthy leg and began trying to find those responsible while shots were still being fired.

“Literally, they didn’t put the gurney put in his injured leg. After the six-hour for shooting Collier. Together, they responded to Watertown police officers down; they picked me up and kind of surgery, he was moved to the intensive requesting back up in a gunfight with heaved me into it,” he said. “The firefight- care unit. From there, a technique called ers stayed in back to apply first aid, while therapeutic hypothermia was used in the Tsarnaev brothers.

Donohue says, from there, all hell a police officer drove the ambulance to order to help preserve Donohue’s brain function. During this process, the body is broke loose. Hundreds of rounds of shots the hospital.”

Massachusetts was essentially on lock- cooled to help protect it from additional were fired, and that’s when he was hit.

“My partner saw me stumbling, and down with most of the main roads com- trauma related to lack of blood flow.

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ALUMNI NEWS “I still have the bullet in my right leg community, but it was overwhelming.” who dedicated their support along the way.

After spending nearly two months in This was the first time Donohue was back right now – they weren’t able to recover the hospital, Donohue was released on in uniform since his injury. it,” Donohue said.

Donohue’s brother, Ed Donohue ’03, June 14, 2013.

“There aren’t too many days that you Since being released, he has been invited go to work and think about or end up who is also a police officer in Boston, said, “The worst part was not knowing to attend several special events including being awarded the Medal of Honor,” how he was going to come out of this – a Bruin’s game, where he waved the Bru- Donohue said. “It was nice for all the when he was going to wake up, and if he ins Boston Strong flag in front of 20,000 people involved to be recognized – espeople, and throwing the first pitch at a pecially since this awards ceremony inwas going to wake up.”

The days after his surgery, Donohue slow- Red Sox game. cluded the events on Marathon Monday ly became more conscious, and his friends and family were by his side to help him put the pieces back together.

He even received a few famous visitors, including actor Kevin Spacey and several professional athletes.

More overwhelming than that, said Donohue, was the level of support he received from the members of the VMI community, law enforcement and military families.

“His VMI friends really stepped forward and set up a fundraising site,” Kim said.

“Some of them don’t live anywhere near Boston and yet be- Donohue, center, with his family after receiving the Medal of Honor Award and Boston Maracame so involved in thon Commendation from the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority Transit Police Department on Sept. 18, 2013. Pictured with Donohue, from left, were Donohue’s father, making sure that Dic Richard; grandmother, Barbara O’Connell; mother-in-law, Marie Forrest; wife, Kim; cousin, was taken care of and Philip O’Connell; mother, Consuelo; sister, Consuelo; and niece, Consuelo. sending care packages – pretty much On Sept. 18, 2013, at an awards ceremony through my time at the hospital.” whatever they could.”

A group of Donohue’s VMI classmates honoring those involved in the Boston MaraDonohue is still experiencing pain and started an Indigogo.com fund, raising thon bombing, the ensuing events and the says that a nerve issue in his left foot is more than $80,000 for their injured events in Watertown, Donohue received the the next hurdle to overcome. With time friend. According to the website, the Medal of Honor Award and Boston Mara- and continuing his physical therapy three campaign managers, all from the class thon Commendation from the Massachusetts times a week, he said he hopes doctors will of 2002, were Conor Evans, Salmaan Bay Transportation Authority Transit Police be able to fix the problem. For the time beKhawaja, Jason Breeding, Ron Hull and Department. His partner, Lucas Kitto, also ing, he said he’s staying positive and has received the Medal of Honor and Lifesaving graduated from using crutches to a cane.

Matt Thompson.

On June 22, 2013, a check for the pro- Awards for his actions on the day known as “We’re sort of taking everything day by ceeds was presented to Donohue after a “Marathon Monday” and the shootout on day, and Dic gets a little better every day,” April 19th. Donohue said others honored said Kim. “We don’t really look too much charity motorcycle run in Boston.

“It was great to see the guys,” Donohue at the ceremony included Mount Auburn into the future; we’re just trying to enjoy said. “I wasn’t surprised by the support, Hospital staff, various members of local everything in the moment right now and because VMI is such a strong and small and state police departments, and others just see where it leads.”

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INSTITUTE INSTITUTE Record Number of Female Cadets Matriculate Class of 2017 is Part of the Largest Corps Ever

More than 500 members of the class of 2017, including a record number of women, matriculated at VMI on a cool and drier than expected Saturday, Aug. 17, 2013.

When the Old Corps returned on Aug. 25, VMI had its largest cadet population ever, with approximately 1,729 men and women.

Over the summer, extra beds had to be installed in the Barracks to make room for the surge in enrollment.

Overall, the class of 2017 includes 502 individuals. Of that group, 61 are female, making the percentage of women in the incoming class 12.2 percent. Well over half of the new cadets – 55.4 percent – are from Virginia, with the remaining 44.6 percent coming from out of state. The latter group includes cadets from 35 states and the District of Columbia. There are 103 recruited NCAA athletes in the class of 2017.

Last year’s incoming class was larger, at 509, but it included a smaller number of women. Forty-six female cadets signed the matriculation book in 2012. The previous record number of females entering VMI was 59 in the class of 2014.

Mechanical engineering is the most popular major among the new cadets, followed by international studies and then economics.

Fifty-nine percent of the class of 2017 has declared a major in math, the sciences or engineering.

This year’s new cadets include seven international students: four from Taiwan and one each from Kenya, the Philippines and South Korea. Lt. Col. Neil Whitmore ’90, associate director of

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INSTITUTE admissions, said that this is “probably” a record low number of international students matriculating at VMI. Fourteen international students matriculated at VMI last year.

“We’ve been a little more stringent with our demands on the international students,” said Whitmore. He explained that in the past, some international students have not been able to meet VMI’s fitness requirements, so his office has been working to ensure that only those who can meet VMI’s high standards for physical fitness are admitted.

Whitmore noted that interest in VMI has been strong among all students this year.

“It’s been a really enthusiastic class,” he commented. He added that many of those denied admission to VMI this year expressed an interest in attending another school and doing well there, with the goal of being accepted by VMI as a transfer student later.

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INSTITUTE

Matriculation ...

Class of 2017

“It’s been a really enthusiastic class.”

Lt. Col. Neil Whitmore ’90, Associate Director of Admissions

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INSTITUTE New Members Appointed to VMI Board of Visitors In July 2013, Virginia Gov. Robert Civil Litigation. He was a member of the commander of the 4th Recruit Training McDonnell appointed two new members Central Virginia Legal Aid Society Board Battalion at Parris Island; and as comto the VMI Board of Visitors (BOV) and and served as board president and is a mander of Marine Corps Base Quantico reappointed two others. Appointed to the founder of Rebuilding Together, formerly and the 3rd Force Service Support Group, board were John William “Bill” Boland Christmas in April-Richmond, a nonprofit 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force. She ’73 of Richmond, partner at McGuire- organization that rehabilitates homes for holds master’s degrees from PepperWoods, and retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. low-income families. Boland holds a ju- dine University, University of Northern Gen. Frances C. Wilson of Virginia Beach. ris doctor degree from the University of Colorado, Salve Regina College and the Naval War College and a Reappointed were retired doctorate in education from U.S. Air Force Gen. John the University of SouthP. Jumper ’66 of Spotsylern California. Wilson has vania, Virginia, CEO of earned the Distinguished SAIC, and Kimber Latsha Service Medal, Defense ’77 of Middletown, PennSuperior Service Medal sylvania, managing partner with oak leaf cluster, Deof Latsha, Davis & McKfense Meritorious Service enna. Each will serve a Medal, Meritorious Service term of four years. Boland, Medal, Navy Commendachair of McGuireWoods’ tion Medal, Navy Achievebusiness and securities litiment Medal and the French gation department, focuses Legion d’honneur. Leaving his practice on representthe board after completing ing financial institutions, Newly appointed to the VMI Board of Visitors are John William two, four-year terms are especially class actions “Bill” Boland ’73, left, and retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. G. Marshall Mundy ’56, in the consumer financial Frances C. Wilson. partner with Mundy, Rogers services area. In addition, he has extensive experience in securities Richmond. Wilson retired as president of & Associates LLP in Roanoke, Virginia, claims, False Claims Act litigation and the National Defense University. In her and Elizabeth D. “Lee” Camp, a retired electronic discovery. Boland has served as 37-year Marine Corps career, she served administrator and chairman of the history chair of the commercial litigation section at the U.S. Naval Academy as a company department of St. Christopher’s School in of the Virginia Association of Defense At- officer in the Brigade of Midshipmen Richmond, Virginia. New members first torneys and as a board member and chair and as an assistant professor in the Pro- took their seats at the board’s September of the Board of Editors of the Journal of fessional Development Department; as 2013 meeting.

Forbes Rates VMI Among America’s Best Virginia Military Institute remains among the nation’s best colleges, according to rankings released in July 2013 by Forbes magazine. VMI ranks No. 87 among the 650 colleges on the Forbes listing of Top Colleges in America, up from No. 115 in last year’s list. VMI was ranked 15th among colleges in the South and 17th on the list of 25 top public colleges in the nation. This year’s rankings were based on 12 factors distributed over five categories: post-graduate success, student satisfaction, debt, four-year graduation rate and competitive awards. Only three schools in Virginia ranked above VMI on the Top 2013-Issue 4

Colleges list: Washington and Lee University, No. 21; University of Virginia, main campus, No. 29; and College of William and Mary, No. 44. Virginia schools ranked below VMI were University of Richmond, 88; Virginia Tech, 110; James Madison University, 168; Hampden-Sydney College, 189; George Mason University, 197; University of Mary Washington, 229; Sweet Briar College, 252; RandolphMacon College, 277; Hollins University,

408; Christopher Newport University, 416; Randolph College, 421; Virginia Commonwealth University, 459; Emory and Henry College, 463; Roanoke College, 490; Old Dominion University, 514; Longwood University, 578; Mary Baldwin College, 627; and Liberty University, 636.

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INSTITUTE Roberts Takes Keen Interest in VMI’s Future

by George Abry, Contributing Writer

“I recommend to people that they don’t retire – just change what you’re doing. There are so many things to be done in this world.

Able people shouldn’t just sit and rock on a chair; they ought to contribute.”

This is coming from John W. Roberts, chairman and treasurer of the Solite Corporation, the building materials company he founded in 1947 in Richmond, Virginia.

Although other people handle the business operations, Roberts, 95, still is involved with market development, new product research and process improvement. “I’m focused on future opportunities; that’s where my interest lies.”

Over the years, Roberts also has taken a keen interest in VMI’s future. He is the man behind the John W. and Jane M. Roberts Free Enterprise Program in the Department of Economics and Business (ECBU).

Roberts said his support of VMI was an outgrowth of his belief in the Institute’s mission statement, which includes the development of men and women who are “… advocates of the American democracy and free enterprise system … .”

“I am a believer in the citizen-soldier concept,” Roberts said. “That is what interested me in developing the chairs in economics and business – to support leadership in the free enterprise system.”

Established in 1998, the program supports two institute professorships – one in free enterprise economics and a second in free enterprise business; an annual lecture series; departmental internships; funds for faculty and cadet research; and resources for departmental awards. The Roberts Medal Academic Achievement Award is presented each year to the top ranking cadet in the graduating class.

The Roberts program was created in part to help the ECBU department gain wider recognition for its work. Thanks to Roberts, the ECBU department is now accredited by The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)-International, the principle accrediting body for business programs in academia. As an undergraduate program, VMI is among a very select group of schools that has achieved this distinction.

“Without a doubt the funds that Mr. and 154

Mrs. Roberts gave to the ECBU department have been critical to our successes,” said Col. Robert W. Moreschi, department head and professor of finance. “To date, accreditation is probably the most significant activity in which the money has been used.” Moreschi said accreditation has produced many other benefits, including an improvement and expansion of the ECBU curriculum.

Roberts’ introduction to VMI dates back to the 1940s-50s. While serving as secretary of the Virginia chapter of the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Roberts met Col. Bobby Marr, who was head of VMI’s civil engineering department at the time and also president of the Virginia ASCE.

“VMI has a vision of what the future needs … graduates should not delay in supporting it.”

“He was my mentor,” Roberts said. “We would travel to conferences together. I learned what his principles were, what he felt was important to engineers. He helped me overcome hurdles as I was developing my own business. As a result, I became a believer in what he proposed and what the Institute believed in.”

In addition to economics and free enterprise, Roberts is a long-time supporter of VMI’s College Orientation Workshop (COW), a privately funded scholastic program started in 1987 by Eugene Williams ’74 – former VMI Board of Visitors member.

The COW program encourages disadvantaged or at-risk minority males to go to college. Each summer, about 20 high school students from around the country come to VMI, where they live on Post and interact with cadets who serve as role models.

“That particular program is one I’ve supported ever since it was started; it’s one of my real joys,” Roberts said. “VMI has so many important things it believes in and supports; you can’t put your finger on one of them.”

Despite his busy schedule, Roberts attends

the Institute lectures he sponsors and stays in touch with the various recipients of his generosity. He recently received a “heartwarming” letter from a 2013 COW participant who wrote: “I want to thank you for making it possible for me and my COW buddies to attend this program. We have worked harder than ever before. I have learned a lot, and I thank everyone for helping us so much.”

“I intend to write him back tonight before I go to bed,” Roberts said.

During the 2012 Roberts Lecture on Free Enterprise, Roberts received the Meritorious Achievement Award, VMI’s highest honor.

During dinner, Col. Floyd Duncan ’64, then head of the ECBU department and a Roberts professor of economics, said, “Like many of the great entrepreneurs that our speaker will address, Mr. Roberts has seen fit to give back a great deal of his wealth. All of you majoring in economics and business are receiving a first rate education from an AACSB accredited institution because of his generosity to both VMI and our department.”

Roberts said that he considers Duncan, who retired recently from VMI, “a stalwart in educating cadets about what free enterprise is all about.”

One of the great sorrows of Roberts’ life was the loss of his wife, Jane, who passed away three years ago. John and Jane Roberts met when they were students at Swarthmore.

“She lived with me for 70 years. Her father was the head of the engineering department at the Pennsylvania Military College. So, she felt very much at home at VMI. When I was honored, she was honored.”

Roberts said he plans to continue working on behalf of his wife’s memory and VMI’s legacy.

He also called on VMI alumni to step up their own support. “Through its leadership over the years, the Institute has supported new concepts as the world changes. VMI has a vision of what the future needs, and graduates should not delay in supporting and embracing its mission statement.”

As for himself, Roberts said he has no plans to slow down any time soon. “After 95 years, I know the Lord is keeping me around for something. And whatever He has in mind for me to do, I’m going to try to do it.”

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

INSTITUTE Bossard ’56 Cherishes Letter from Professor Nichols ’44

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation

During their years in Barracks, alumni develop many close and enduring ties.

For example, there are ones with Brother Rats, forged in the Ratline and through other shared experiences. Then, there are those with the Institute itself, created as they become increasingly aware of the benefits of the VMI education.

Some of the more enduring relationships, though, are those between cadets and faculty. Indeed, it is common for alumni to recount how a certain professor had a positive effect on them – be it setting them on their career paths, getting them through a difficult time or getting them to embrace the adage, “Never let your academics get in the way of your education.” Often, faculty members become mentors to their former cadets, advising them as they make their ways in the world. Often, too, these people strike up lifelong friendships.

In some cases, the relationships might end with graduation. The alumnus always will have fond memories of a professor and readily admit his debt to and admiration of him or her. However, the demands of job and family and the tyrannies of time and distance prevent them from reconnecting. Happily, with a little help, the relationships can be renewed and, often, in a very meaningful way for the people involved – and the Institute.

Such is the case with Bernard B. Bossard ’56. After graduation, he devoted himself to a highly successful scientific and business career, during which he developed radars and microwave communications for commercial and defense uses; established new businesses; published and lectured extensively; and invented broadband wireless technology. He somehow found the time to act as a consultant for the Department of Defense, the National Security Agency and NASA’s Project Apollo, as well as to submit and receive 11 patents.

During the three decades in which he did much of this, Bossard fell out of touch with VMI. In the late 1980s, VMI Keydet Club CEO Greg Cavallaro ’84 – then assistant vice president of the VMI 2013-Issue 4

Foundation – approached Bossard with an eye toward getting him more involved with the Institute. As part of the process of getting Bossard reacquainted with his alma mater, Cavallaro reintroduced him to a former professor, Col. Lee Nichols Jr. ’44, a longtime member of the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering who taught at VMI for 44 years and was director of engineering for 19 years.

“For many alumni, Lee Nichols was – and is – a legendary figure,” recalled Cavallaro. “While he was a demanding teacher and a stickler for discipline, he also had a deep and abiding concern for cadets. He took an interest in them and what they planned to do with the education they received at VMI.” Bossard, according to Cavallaro, admired his former professor. “Bernie’s accomplishments are truly astounding, but he still thought the world of Col. Nichols.”

At the time, Bossard was working on getting an invention that he had patented approved by the Federal Communications Commission, and he decided to hire Nichols, a nationally recognized expert on police radar, as a consultant.

This began a relationship that would last the better part of the last 10 years of Nichols’s life.

“Like most cadets, I was scared of Col. Nichols,” reflected Bossard. “I really was. He was one tough professor. I always sat in the back of the room and would never say much. But Col. Nichols had a way of engaging me, pulling me out of my shell and getting me to interact.”

On his 60th birthday, Bossard received a letter from Nichols. It was brief, not much more than 150 words, but it was quite powerful. According to Cavallaro, the penultimate paragraph had an immense impact on Bossard. Nichols wrote, “The rewards to your professors are not reckoned in dollars but in the invisible psychic return, much later to be seen, the deeds of those they have taught.”

“I was really surprised to receive this incredibly touching letter. I had no idea

The letter from the late Col. Lee Nichols ’44, professor emeritus, to his former student, Bernie Bossard ’56, reads as follows: “To Bernie Bossard on the occasion of his 60th Birthday: “As Stonewall Jackson said before Chancellorsville, ‘The Institute will be heard from today.’ It was indeed heard from then, again at New Market, and it is still heard from today.

“For by your successes since 1956, you have reflected great honor upon VMI, upon yourself and upon all who taught you during your cadetship.

“The true measure of any college is weighed not in buildings, nor bricks, nor books and bibliographies, nor Ph.D.s and research contracts, but by what its graduates have done when courses and classrooms are only dim memories. By this standard, VMI stands high! Your own accomplishments continue to bear out that classic truth.

“The rewards to your professors are not reckoned in dollars but in the invisible psychic return, much later to be seen, the deeds of those they have taught.

“For all these things, my gratitude and thanks, and Happy Birthday!

Sincerely, Lee L. Nichols Jr. ’44 Professor Emeritus

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INSTITUTE ‘The Colonel’ felt the way he did about me and, more broadly, the cadets that he taught. It provided a fascinating insight into just how deeply the members of our faculty feel about cadets. It made me even more glad that I had the chance to reconnect with Col. Nichols and let him known how much I appreciated all that he gave to me,” Bossard said.

By this time, Bossard had reengaged with the Institute. “In 1994, Bernie joined the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees, and he spent eight years on that board,” recounted Cavallaro. “In 2000, he became

aware that Col. Nichols was gravely ill.

So ill, in fact, that he was unable to speak and could communicate only by writing.

Bernie wanted to honor him in a special way on Post.

“The two of them went back and forth on the issue until they agreed to establish what became The Bossard ’56 and Nichols ’44 Electrical Engineering Scholarship for Merit,” Cavallaro continued. “They came to final agreement just days before Col. Nichols died.”

Bossard had vowed to give VMI a major gift when his company’s stock price hit a

specific price range. Now, he had a purpose for that gift. Almost providentially, the stock price climbed in the spring of 2000, allowing him to make the gift just seven days after Nichols’ death on May 10, 2000.

“Col. Nichols obviously was extremely proud of his former student,” said Cavallaro, “and Bernie was delighted that he had been able to reestablish a relationship with a faculty member who he held in the highest esteem. It just shows you how strong and enduring the bonds are – and can remain – within the VMI family.”

Jamison ’57: A Humble Man Motivated by Genuine Love

by George Abry, Contributing Writer

Research Labs, Inc.; member of the ExecuIf you ask Col. Donald “Don” Jamison ’57 his family car red, white and yellow.” to tell you a few VMI stories, chances are After graduating from VMI with a bach- tive Committee of the Athletic Council; and he won’t know where to begin. elor’s degree in civil engineering, Jamison VMI tennis coach from 1969-81. “That was After all, he matriculated under VMI returned that fall to work as an instructor in a wonderful job; I loved every minute of it,” Superintendent William H. Milton Jr. the CE department, also serving as special Jamison said of his time on the court.

Throughout his career, Jamison was rec’920, who was in that post from 1952-60; assistant to the commandant. After an ache was hired under Lt. Gen. George R.E. tive duty stint in the Corps of Engineers, ognized as an authority in fluid mechanics, Shell ’931, who was superintendent from Jamison returned briefly to VMI before hydraulic and environmental engineering.

1960-71; and the current superintendent, heading to the University of California In 1982, he was named the first holder of the General J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, is one at Berkeley, earning a master’s degree in Benjamin H. Powell Jr. ’36 Distinguished Professorial Chair in Engineering. of his former students. “Each In 1995, he received the Pletta superintendent was brought here Award as Virginia’s Engineering for a particular reason, and each Educator of the Year. And in 1996, one inspired me to want to stay he received the VMI Achievement here,” Jamison said. “But my Medal for his work as the Super35 years in the civil engineering intendent’s Representative to the (CE) department was the true Honor Court and as an academic highlight of my career.” advisor to NCAA athletes.

It’s hard to tell whether Jamison Even though he retired from the chose VMI or VMI chose him.

CE department in 1992, Jamison He began his career at VMI in has continued his service to the 1958, and he’s more or less been Institute in one capacity or anhere ever since. More recently, he In September 2002, Jamison ’57, center, received the Spirit other. Nowadays, he is likely to volunteers his time in the athletic of VMI Award, which is the VMI Keydet Club’s highest honor. department as an academic advi- Presenting the award were Keydet Club CEO Greg Caval- be found in his office on the lower sor to cadets. laro ’84, left, and Keydet Club President Al Soltis ’79, right. level of Cameron Hall, where he spends four or five days each Jamison, who grew up in Roanoke, Virginia, came initially to VMI when civil engineering. He taught at VMI until week ensuring that athletes stay on top of two of his high school friends applied to 1964 and then went to the University of their school work. His objective is to make the Institute, and he accompanied them Wisconsin, earning his doctorate degree in sure that NCAA athletes obtain a diploma and a VMI ring. “I spend a lot of time workon their trip to Lexington for an interview. fluid mechanics in 1968.

Much to his surprise, Jamison was accepted.

Upon returning to VMI, Jamison spent the ing with athletes in various ways. I check According to a write-up in the 1957 Bomb, next 29 years – his entire teaching career – their grades, and if I don’t think they’re up he cultivated a fairly “gung-ho attitude” as wearing assorted academic hats: CE depart- to snuff, I’ll contact them,” Jamison said. a cadet and “made his family learn all the ment head; superintendent’s adviser to the “I don’t think I have any special expertise.”

Over the years those VMI rings have school songs and yells.” He also “painted Honor Court; deputy director of the VMI 156

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INSTITUTE

Col. Don Jamison ’57 on the job at VMI. Photo taken in 1992.

become larger and more elaborate, not to mention coveted. The one on Jamison’s finger looks older than most – understated, yet elegant. “I always wear it; I’m very proud of it,” he said. “It reminds me of my former students more than anything.”

Jamison professes a deep love for his former students but doesn’t say much about them.

“There are too many of them, and they’re too special to mention. I wouldn’t want to leave anybody out.”

In 1998, a group of former students, led

by Jeff Hamilton ’81 (a former tennis player coached by Jamison), decided to honor their esteemed mentor and stern disciplinarian by establishing a scholarship in his name. The Jamison ’57 Family Scholarship is awarded annually to a cadet Jamison selects. “It’s difficult to choose. Once they are selected, I stay close with them through their cadetship and years following.”

Despite his own reticence, Jamison’s former students glorify his memory. They would die for the man. “He is revered by so many people; he has been such a servant to VMI, with a true and genuine concern for all cadets,” said Chris Nash ’77, who studied under Jamison and chaired the committee that organized a 2010 Jamison appreciation event. “He was responsible for a lot of headaches and heartaches because 2013-Issue 4

of the demands he put on me academically.

He was tough on us, but it was tough love.

There’s just so much I could say.”

Numerous professional, personal and academic accolades have followed his decorated career. Not long ago, Jamison received an unexpected letter in the mail from Gen. Peay. It said: “It is a pleasure to inform you that the Honors Committee of the VMI Sports Hall of Fame has selected you for induction into the VMI Sports Hall of Fame in the category of Special Citation ... The official induction will take place at the Hall of Fame Banquet on Friday evening, 13 September 2013.”

“I was overwhelmed,” Jamison said. “I was overwhelmed because of the people in [the Hall of Fame] already. I said to my wife, Priscilla, ‘I don’t understand this; I don’t understand why this is happening to me.’ And she said, ‘This is happening to you, because you’ve dedicated your whole life to VMI.’ She’s right, and I would do it all over again.”

Adds Priscilla, “He is the most humble person. What he does, he doesn’t do for recognition. He does it out of a genuine love for the cadets, just to help them.”

As much as he loves “Old Corps” stories, Jamison is not a man who dwells in the past.

He is driven by the knowledge that VMI’s

halcyon days are still ahead. He believes that growth and change have made VMI’s fabric stronger.

He thinks it’s great that VMI now has female cadets in the Corps, despite the divisiveness of debate that spawned their arrival in 1997. “I think they have been a positive influence on VMI and have opened doors for many people. A lot of them are commissioning, and they bring so much to the classroom.”

The expansion of the VMI Post, coupled with its preservation and restoration under Gen. Peay, are another source of excitement to Jamison, along with the Center for Leadership and Ethics and other academic programs and initiatives too numerous to mention. Jamison could go on and on about it, but ultimately, new or old doesn’t matter to him. “VMI will always be VMI because of the success of its graduates in all areas of life,” Jamison said.

Thankfully for VMI, Jamison’s success has benefited the Institute and its alumni in more ways than can be expressed.

Editor’s Note: Unless stated otherwise, the articles and photos in the Institute section of the Alumni Review are provided by VMI Communications and Marketing.

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INSTITUTE Retiring Faculty and Administrative Staff Honored Col. Michael Strickler ’71, who has retired after 38 years of service to VMI, received the VMI Meritorious Service Medal at a retirement reception held April 19 in Moody Hall. Strickler was executive assistant to the superintendent and secretary of the Board of Visitors. Also receiving the Meritorious Service Medal at the reception were Col. Floyd Duncan ’64, professor of economics and business and department head, retiring after 35 years; Col. Cash Koeniger, professor of history, after 27 years; Col. Thomas Baur ’75, professor of biology and superintendent’s representative to the Honor Court, after 25 years; Capt. Brian Quisenberry ’81, associate director of financial aid, after 25 years; and Brig. Gen. Alan Farrell, professor of French and former dean of the faculty, after 17 years. Cmdr. Jon Baca, who retires after 27 years of Naval service, the last four in VMI’s Naval ROTC unit, received the VMI Achievement Medal.

The VMI Meritorious Service Award is the highest award recognizing exceptionally meritorious service to the Institute. The award is presented by the superintendent.

At the superintendent’s home before the retirement parade were three brothers, from left, Stephen Strickler ’68, Col. Mike Strickler ’71 and Edmund Strickler ’62. Mike Strickler was awarded the VMI Meritorious Service Medal.

The Cadet Makes Changes … Brings in New, Enthusiastic Staff Now’s the Time for a Subscription!

by Cadet Will Dodson

meetings between these faculty After Carson Hogge and I members and Cadet staff thus were chosen to lead The Cadet far have bolstered communicafor the 2013-14 school year, tion and led to an overall higher we decided it was time for interest in the newspaper’s a change to our newspaper, success, something rarely seen which has been in circulation in previous years. With such a since 1907. Low subscription sound relationship established, rates and the lack of a consisinnovative ideas and further tent publication schedule in re-development for The Cadet past years have encouraged us is inevitable. to revitalize The Cadet and its As editor-in-chief for the staff. We intend to do this by 2013-14 school year, I encouradding new columns, coverage alumni, parents, students, ing more interesting events faculty and others to consider pertaining to VMI and Lexingsubscribing to The Cadet and ton, focusing on alumni, and reading our historic newspaeven publishing select issues per that is benefiting from a in color.

The Cadet staff, from left, Cadets William Breakell, advertising In order to carry out these manager; Carson Hogge, managing editor; and Will Dodson, hard-working, dedicated staff.

We have announced 22 issues goals, we have recruited a staff editor-in-chief, reviewing ideas for news articles. to be published for the year, of talented writers, editors and including special editions for managers who share a similar vision in revamping The Cadet and a desire to multitude of opinions and styles from which Ring Figure, Breakout and Graduation. With this being said, I invite anyone with interest in take part in this rebuilding process. Our team any newspaper would benefit.

In addition to our dedicated group of cadets, the VMI community to enjoy the new features includes a variety of cadets, ranging from first classmen to third classmen, who major Maj. Chris Perry ’05, Col. Stewart MacInnis we have to offer and help keep The Cadet a in a variety of studies from psychology to and especially Col. Francis Bush have been viable newspaper in the future.

To purchase a subscription or for more inbusiness and economics. Not only does this supporting our efforts to improve the overall add diversity to the staff, but it also draws a quality and makeup of the newspaper. Regular formation, go to www.cadetpublications.com.

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

INSTITUTE Four Cadets Complete PSYOP Assessment and Selection Course Four VMI Army ROTC cadets completed the demanding, 10-day Psychological Operations Regiment Assessment and Selection Course conducted May 15-24, 2013, at Camp McKall, North Carolina. According to Col. Michael A. Ceroli ’85, USA, commandant of the Psychological Operations (PSYOP) Regiment who submitted this photo, “The course is designed to assess and select members of the PSYOP Regiment for suitability and trainability.

The course measures leadership, intellect and physical fitness while [students are] under extreme stress and fatigue. [Those selected] are eligible to enter the U.S. Army PSYOP Qualification Course conducted at the Army’s JFK Special Warfare Center and School.” Standing are course instructors Sgt. Harris, Sgt. 1st Class Gigowski, Sgt. 1st Class Griffin, Master Sgt. Fisher, Staff Sgt. Vidal, Sgt. Villareal and Master Sgt. Diaz. Kneeling: Capt. Toshner, Cadet Hitchcock ’14, Cadet Reo ’14, Cadet Kelly ’14, Cadet Longaker ’14 and Ceroli.

Rover Robot Kills the Ticks The day may not be too far away when and computer engineering, are spending the homeowners can schedule monthly tick current academic year working with cadets clearing service, drastically reducing the risk to make mechanical and software improveof tick-borne illness in their pets and chil- ments ahead of testing of the fourth generadren. That’s because the “tick rover,” a robot tion robot in summer 2014. What the team invented by three VMI professors, has just still needs to know is how fast a cleared area cleared a major hurdle. repopulates with ticks. “If Testing in June 2013 indiit repopulates in a day, it’s cated unequivocally that not useful,” said Squire. the device kills between “If it repopulates in a 75 and 100 percent of week, homeowners need the ticks in its path. “The to own the device.” But only thing more successthe device carries permeful is chemical spray,” thrin insecticide, which is said Col. Jim Squire, The “tick rover” was invented usually handled only by professor of electrical by three VMI professors. Photo professionals. In an ideal and computer engineer- by John Robertson IV, VMI. situation, the area would ing and project manager. Holly Gaff, an repopulate in no less than a month, making assistant professor in the Old Dominion the device ideal for commercial pest control University Department of Biological Sci- companies. Homeowners could schedule ences, was hired by the VMI team to test their monthly clearing with the local franthe third-generation device. She ran test chise and never have to be concerned with after test, with controls, in the tick-infested purchasing or maintaining the robots. If all Hoffler Creek Wildlife Foundation in Ports- goes well with next summer’s tests, the team mouth, Virginia. The results? So good, that will seek grant funding to commercialize the Gaff initially thought there was an error robot. Over the years of research and dein her protocol. Only one in 10 ticks had velopment, a number of cadets have gained survived. The next time around, 100 percent valuable experience engineering current and were killed. That test, however, is not the last previous generations of the robot, and there word. Squire and the two other professors on are, of course, many more ideas waiting to the team, Col. Jay Sullivan, mechanical engi- be explored. “We’ve got lots of new projects neering, and Col. Dave Livingston, electrical in the wings,” said Squire.

2013-Issue 4

VMI Dean to Step Down Brig. Gen. Wane Schneiter, deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty, will resign his position on May 31, 2014, after the conclusion of the 2013-14 academic year. At that time, he will return to the faculty in VMI’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

During his tenure as dean, which began in spring 2009, Schneiter oversaw much of the implementation of a new core curriculum adopted after a successful reaccreditation review by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) in spring 2007. He oversaw VMI’s five-year interim report on the core implementation and Quality Enhancement Plan. The interim report was accepted by SACS during the 2012-13 academic year.

“Gen. Schneiter has made splendid contributions to VMI’s academic programs,” said Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent. “He has helped to sharpen VMI’s focus on national educational priorities, brought organizational structure to the academic process and greatly enhanced opportunities for VMI graduates.”

Schneiter has also overseen a significant expansion of VMI’s graduate partnership program. Graduate programs in medicine, law, business, engineering and communications at a number of respected schools now offer alumni opportunities, including admissions concessions, internships and guaranteed interviews.

His signature accomplishment was a 2012 strategic review that resulted in major curricular changes in modern languages, computer science and English.

The formation of the Department of Computer and Information Sciences and the hiring this fall of faculty to offer Chinese language classes are a direct response to this initiative and to national educational priorities.

Schneiter joined VMI’s faculty in 1990.

He served as the civil and environmental engineering department head prior to taking up his position as dean.

A national search for a new deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty is underway as of this writing.

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ATHLETICS ATHLETICS VMI Sports Hall of Fame Inducts Seven Six former athletes and one prominent alumnus who served in coaching and support roles in the athletic department were inducted into the VMI Sports Hall of Fame on Sept. 13, 2013, during a dinner at Marshall Hall, Center for Leadership and Ethics. The dinner kicked off a weekend of Hall of Fame festivities, including a full review Corps of Cadets parade on Sept.

14, 2013, and a halftime ceremony at the VMI-North Greenville football game that afternoon. For more information on the Hall of Fame dinner and weekend activities, go to www. vmi.edu. The 2013 VMI Sports Hall of Fame inductees are listed below followed by expanded biographical capsules.

Ben Judge ’80 (Track) Judge was an outstanding sprinter on Coach Wade Williams track squads. He led VMI to the 1980 State Indoor title, setting a meet record in the 400 meters and running a leg on the winning 1600 meter relay team. Judge won the same two events in the 1980 SoCon Conference Indoor meet, setting a new record in the mile relay.

Adam Britt ’03 (Wrestling) Britt finished his career as VMI’s all-time victory leader with 121 wins over his four years. He was three-time Southern Conference Champion and 2002-03 SoCon Wrestler of the Year.

Don Jamison ’57 (Special Citation) Jamison is a former VMI tennis coach, academic advisor and civil engineering professor emeritus. He served as VMI tennis coach from 1968-84 and supervised academic advising for cadetathletes for eight years.

Al Comer ’86 (Football) Comer was a three-year starter at quarterback for VMI in the mid-1980s.

He holds the school season record for most pass completions in a season (185 in 1985) and also holds the top season mark for passing yardage with 2,380 yards in 1985.

Johnny Garnett ’78 (Football) Garnett was a versatile receiver and defensive back on Coach Bob Thalman’s football teams of the mid-1970s and was a key performer on two Southern Conference Championship squads.

David Groseclose ’95 (Baseball) Groseclose graduated as the school’s all-time career leader in stolen bases with 100 bagged. He was a first team All-Southern Conference selection at shortstop in 1995 and was second team All-Southern Conference selection at shortstop in 1993 and 1994.

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Kenny Reeder ’63 (Football) Reeder was a back and receiver on several of the Coach John McKenna teams of the early 1960s. He led the team in receiving for two consecutive years with 26 catches for 323 yards in 1961 and 12 catches for 159 yards and two touchdowns in 1962.

Expanded Inductee Capsules Adam Britt ’03 (Wrestling) Britt culminated an outstanding wrestling career with a 30-6 overall record his senior season and was named the Southern Conference Wrestler of the Year. For the second consecutive year, he qualified for the NCAA Championships by winning the SoCon at his 157-pound weight class after also capturing it in 2002. He finished his career as VMI’s all-time victory leader with 121 over his four years. In 2003, Britt led the team in pins (8) and technical falls (6). He won two titles in the Virginia Intercollegiate State Championships and captured three All-Academy Championships. He also won the SoCon title at 149 in 2001. Britt led the Southern Conference in wins as a sophomore with 30, led the team in pins

as a freshman with eight and he took first place in the 2002 Bloomsburg Invitational at 157 pounds. In the classroom, he excelled as a civil engineering major and was named 2003 Verizon Academic All-America Men’s at-large third team, one of only 43 nationally to receive that distinction. Britt was a distinguished VMI graduate and was named to the Southern Conference Academic honor roll for three years. He also was an academic all-district selection in 2002.

Al Comer ’86 (Football) Comer was a three-year starter at quarterback for VMI from 1983-85. He holds the school season record for most pass completions in a season (185 in 1985) and also holds the top season mark for passing yardage with 2,380 yards in 1985. On the career lists, he ranks fourth in career passing yardage in VMI history with 4,050 yards and also fourth in career passing completions (337).

Comer ranks fifth among VMI players in career total offense (4,050 yards) and was named Southern Conference Player of the Week when he rushed for three touchdowns, including a score as time expired in the fourth quarter, which set up a two-point conversion run and a 39-38 win over William & Mary in 1985, VMI’s most recent win over the Tribe. Roanoke Times sportswriter Jack Bogacyzk called the ’85 VMI-William & Mary game the “greatest college football game he had ever witnessed.”

Comer was awarded the Henry Fairfax Ayers ’906 Award in 1985 as the team’s Most Valuable Player.

Johnny Garnett ’78 (Football) A starter throughout his career while playing three different positions, Garnett played strong safety his first two years and was first team All-State and honorable mention All-Southern Conference as a freshman on VMI’s 7-4 Southern Conference Championship team. He had three pass interceptions and 87 tackles that season and was honorable VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ATHLETICS mention All-Southern Conference as a sophomore but switched to offense in 1976. He had immediate impact as a wide receiver and led a run-oriented team in receiving in 1976 and 1977 with 45 catches for 687 yards and three touchdowns. The running-gamedominated offense limited his chances for post season honors. His 84-yard catch against Furman gave VMI a 3128 victory and a share of the Southern Conference title. Garnett lettered in three sports as a freshman and played in 25 basketball games in 1974-75, averaging 6.0 points and 2.4 rebounds. He also lettered in track, and following the 1977 season, he was selected the Outstanding Collegiate Athlete in the State by the Peninsula Sports Club. Coach Thalman said of Garnett, “If we had been able to keep him in one place, I know he would have received more honors, but he was always willing to make a move for the good of the team.”

David Groseclose ’95 (Baseball) Groseclose graduated as the school’s all-time career leader in stolen bases with 100 bagged between the 1992 and 1995 seasons. He was a first team All-Southern Conference selection at shortstop in 1995 and was second team All-Southern Conference selection at shortstop in 1993 and 1994. Groseclose led the conference in stolen bases with a school record 33 in 1995 and posted 31 stolen bases the previous year. He also led the Southern Conference in ’95 in runs scored per game (1.09) and batted .341 that year to rank sixth in the Southern Conference in batting. Groseclose was a 1993 Southern Conference tournament team selection and helped lead the team to the championship round and a second-place finish. He was drafted in the 22nd round by the Colorado Rockies in the June 1995 draft and played two years of minor league baseball in the Rockies chain.

Ben Judge ‘80 (Track) Judge lettered four years in track and had a tremendous senior season. He showed promise early with a win in the Southern Conference 200 meter (Outdoor) and was a member of the 2013-Issue 4

winning mile relay team his sophomore season, as VMI won both the Southern Conference and state championships. He did not score any first places as a junior in the Southern Conference or state on an extremely strong team which won Indoor and Outdoor Conference crowns.

During his senior year, he led VMI to the State Indoor title setting a meet record in the 400 meters and running a leg on the winning 1600 meter relay team.

Judge won the same two events in the Conference Indoor, setting a new Southern Conference record in the mile relay.

He qualified for the NCAA nationals as a member of that relay team and also individually with a time of 48.26 in the 440 yards. Though VMI was narrowly defeated by Virginia Tech in the State Outdoor, Judge won the 400 meters and was on the winning mile relay team.

During the outdoor season he set the VMI record in the 200 meter dash (20.8) and was recipient of the 1980 Hardin Massie Award given to the VMI track and field athlete who best exemplifies the “spirit of VMI.” Kenny Reeder ’63 (Football) Reeder was a back and receiver on several of the great McKenna teams of the early 1960s and put up some eye-catching numbers. He led the team in receiving for two consecutive years – 26 catches for 323 yards in 1961 and 12 catches for 159 yards and two touchdowns in 1962. His 1961 statistics ranked highly in the Southern Conference and nationally – his 26 receptions tied for the lead on the Southern Conference that year, and his 323 yards ranked second in the conference. He also intercepted four passes in 1961 and returned one for a touchdown, and his 17.9 yards in punt returns ranked 19th in the nation. Reeder also threw a fiveyard touchdown pass that beat Virginia Tech in 1961. He lettered two years at halfback, then was shifted to split end and lettered there. Reeder also lettered in baseball in 1962.

Don Jamison ’57 (Special Citation) Jamison is a former VMI tennis coach, academic advisor and civil engineering

professor emeritus. He served as VMI tennis coach from 1968 to 1984 and supervised academic advising for cadetathletes for eight years. He recently served as assistant to the athletic director. Jamison taught civil engineering at the Institute for nearly 40 years and served as head of the civil engineering department from 1971-78 and 1984-91.

He led VMI tennis to a 17-win season in 1981. Jamison’s expertise as both an educator and coach greatly benefited VMI athletics. He provided guidance and direction to the betterment of the cadet-athlete experience and for coaches who sought his advice.

Cowart ’08 Finishes Fifth at U.S. Championships Donnie Cowart ’08 placed fifth in the 3,000-meter steeplechase at the 2013 U.S. Track and Field Championships, held June 20-23, 2013, at Drake Stadium in Des Moines, Iowa.

Cowart clocked in at 8:33.95 to post his second consecutive top-five result at the USA Track and Field event, following his fourth-place finish in 2012.

Lopez ’12 Part of Combined No-Hitter Adam Lopez ’12 picked up the win in a combined no-hitter in the minor leagues on June 5, 2013, pitching two innings in the Kannapolis Intimidators’ (North Carolina) 11-0 win over the Hagerstown Suns (Maryland). The seven-inning nohitter was the first for Kannapolis, the high-A affiliate of the Chicago White Sox, since 2010. Lopez picked up the win by pitching scoreless ball in both the fifth and sixth innings.

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VMI to Return to Southern Conference in 2014-15 Virginia Military Institute will join the Southern Conference as a full member beginning with the 2014-15 academic year. Superintendent Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62 made the announcement May 31, 2013, after the VMI Board of Visitors (BOV) voted to accept an invitation for membership from the league. “With a unanimous vote, the BOV voted to accept the Southern Conference offer of membership,” said Paul Fraim ’71, board president. “We look forward to renewing relationships in the SoCon.” The conference affiliation move marks a return to the league where VMI held membership for nearly 80 years. The Institute was an all-sports member of the SoCon until July 1, 2003, when it moved to the Big South Conference where it has competed since that time.

“We are extremely excited to return to the Southern Conference,” said Gen. Peay.

“While we have enjoyed our association with the Big South Conference and wish it every success, this is the right move for VMI.” The Institute will join a SoCon circuit that is expected to have 2014-15 members Chattanooga, The Citadel, East Tennessee State, Furman, UNCG, Mercer, Samford, Western Carolina and Wofford. “It is a momentous day for the Southern Conference to welcome VMI back,” SoCon Commissioner John Iamarino said.

“One can’t help being impressed by the tradition and integrity of the institution as symbolized by the Corps of Cadets.

We’re delighted to once again compete athletically with VMI.” “I am pleased that we will join the Southern Conference,” said Donny White ’65, VMI athletic director. “We have great friends in the Big South, but now is the right time to return to the 162

SoCon.” The Institute first joined the Southern Conference in December 1924, and during its 79-year association with the Southern Conference, VMI squads captured seven league football titles, three basketball championships, 31 indoor and outdoor track championships, five cross country championships, 14 wrestling regular season and tournament championships, nine swimming championships, and two rifle titles. The 1976 men’s basketball team advanced within

one game of the Final Four before bowing to Rutgers in the East Regional Final, and in 1977, VMI finished with a school record 26-4 mark and reached the “Sweet 16” round of the NCAA tournament. The 1969 and 1988 baseball teams also won the SoCon North Division crown. As a SoCon associate member since 2003, VMI has continued to participate in conference wrestling and hosted this year’s championship. The Institute sponsors 18 Division I intercollegiate sports (11 men, seven women) including football (FCS), men’s basketball, baseball, men’s and women’s cross country, men’s lacrosse, men’s and women’s rifle, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s swimming, men’s and women’s track (indoor and outdoor), women’s water polo, and wrestling. The Institute’s in-

tercollegiate athletic history dates back to 1866 with the formation of a baseball team, but the first organized sport came in 1891 when Cadet Walter H. Taylor served as captain and coach of the first football team. Famous VMI athletic alumni include Gen. George Marshall, a football player from the class of 1901, who served as chief of staff of the Army in World War II and as secretary of state. Marshall was awarded the Nobel Prize for the Marshall Plan, a program that rebuilt war-torn Europe. Jimmy Leech, class of 1921, starred on VMI’s undefeated 1920 squad and was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. Bobby Ross, class of 1959, distinguished himself in the college and professional coaching ranks and led Georgia Tech to a national championship in 1990 and the San Diego Chargers to the Super Bowl in 1995. Ron Carter ’78 played on the NCAA tournament basketball teams of the 1970s and with the Los Angeles Lakers of the NBA. Reggie Williams ’08 led NCAA Division I in scoring in both 2006-07 and 2007-08 and has played for both the Golden State Warriors and Charlotte Bobcats of the NBA. Thomas Haskins ’97 became the NCAA’s leading rusher in I-AA football, breaking a mark that stood for 17 years.

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

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

ATHLETICS Dickinson ’13 Leads Baseball Postseason Honorees Senior outfielder Rob Dickinson was named Big South Player of the Year on May 20, 2013, and was one of three Keydets to receive awards from the Big South Conference at the league’s postseason banquet in Lynchburg, Virginia. Matt Winn ’14 earned Second Team All-Big South honors, while Drew Bryan ’15 was VMI’s representative on the league’s all-academic team.

Dickinson (Richmond, Virginia/Douglas Freeman) became VMI’s first baseball player of the year ever, regardless of conference affiliation, after posting one of the best seasons in VMI baseball history in 2013.

The senior finished his final campaign with a .399 batting average, the highest by a Keydet since 1988. Dickinson wrapped up the year ranked seventh in Division I in batting average and top five in seven different Big South categories, including leading the league in hitting, becoming the first Keydet to do so. Dickinson went on to earn Virginia Sports Information Directors

Second Team All-State honors and also became the first Keydet to earn First Team All-Region honors from the American Baseball Coaches’ Association. “I’m very

Rob Dickinson ’13 was named Big South Player of the Year on May 20, 2013.

proud of Rob for earning this honor,” said Marlin Ikenberry ’95, VMI head coach, when Dickinson was tabbed conference player of the year. “This is a true tribute to how hard he’s worked and the strides he’s

made every day as a college player. Rob may have played harder than anyone I’ve ever coached, and it was a great honor to coach such a hard worker. Today is a great day for Rob Dickinson and for VMI baseball.” Winn earned All-Big South Second Team honors, becoming the second Keydet catcher to earn the honor (Alex Haitsuka ’11) since the program joined the conference in the 2005 season. Not only did the redshirt sophomore nab 41.2 percent of runners trying to steal, he also excelled at the plate. He had a VMI season-high 15-game hitting streak that lasted March 26-April 19 and wound up hitting .333, sixth in the Big South. In addition, sophomore Drew Bryan was named to the conference’s all-academic team, which brought the Keydets back on to the academic squad. VMI did not have a representative in 2012, a season in which they had 14 first-year players, as first-year competitors are not eligible for the Big South All-Academic team.

Williams ’08 Signs with Houston Rockets Texas basketball team, the Houston Rockets, announced July 19, 2013, that former VMI basketball player Reggie Williams ’08 (Prince George, Virginia) has signed a multi-year contract with the club. Williams, the Institute’s all-time leading scorer, spent the past two seasons with the Charlotte, North Carolina, Bobcats and will be joining his third NBA club since beginning his career at the premier level midway through the 2009-10 season. In nearly four NBA seasons, Williams has averaged 8.6 points, 2.7 rebounds and 1.6 assists and has started 32 games with the Bobcats and the Oakland, California, Golden State Warriors. At VMI, Williams led Division I in scoring in both 2006-07 (28.1) and 2007-08 (27.6), becoming the ninth player in NCAA history to lead Division 2013-Issue 4

I in scoring in multiple seasons.

He completed his career with 2,556 points which also became the most-ever tallied by a Big South player. Williams began his professional career overseas with French team Jeanne d’Arc (JDA) Dijon Bourgogne in 200809, before moving to the NBA D-League’s Sioux Falls Skyforce the following season. He joined Golden State on March 2, 2010, and appeared in 24 games for the Warriors his rookie season, averaging 15.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 2.8 assists. In 2010-11, Williams ranked ninth in the NBA in 3-point field goal percentage (.423) while playing for Golden State. Williams is the second VMI basketball alumnus to reach the NBA, joining Ron Carter ’78 who played for the Los Angeles Lakers and Indiana Pacers.

Reggie Williams ’08, center, as a Keydet.

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VMI INC. VMIFOUNDATION, FOUNDATION, INC. Message from the VMI Foundation CEO

by Brian S. Crockett

The next time you are in a bookstore or browsing websites for e-books, take a moment to look at the subtitles of history

VMI’s history knows of the truly transformative effects that philanthropy has had on it. From the days after the Civil

books and biographies. Many of them describe an event or chronicle a life that changed the world, ended an era, inaugurated an age or irrevocably changed some aspect of the way we live. Some of these claims require quite a stretch of the imagination to accept. Others are much more believable. No one can dispute the profound effect, for example, that television has had on American life. Whatever their subject and no matter the veracity of their subtitles, these books are telling tales of transformation, and one of the unquestionably transformative forces in history has been philanthropy.

It is difficult to imagine what American higher education would look like were it not for philanthropy. Many American colleges and universities – such as the University of Chicago and Sweet Briar College – would not exist if it had not been for an individual with a vision and the means to realize it. Individual benefactors have provided the funds to establish new programs and enhance old ones at established private and public institutions and, in doing so, transformed these colleges and universities. Anyone with even a passing acquaintance with

War, when the determination and generosity of a small group of alumni kept its doors open, to the past few years, when private donors have helped transform the Institute physically (e.g., Foster Stadium and Marshall Hall) and academically (e.g., the Jackson-Hope Fund and the Cameron Professorship in Physics and Astronomy), philanthropy has had a substantial effect on the Institute.

Although alumni and friends have supported VMI financially since before the Civil War, it was not until the Institute’s first comprehensive fundraising effort – The VMI Campaign – was launched in the late 1970s that philanthropy had a major impact on it. That effort and its successors – the Sesquicentennial Campaign and Reveille: A Call to Excel – decisively changed the Institute’s overall direction, placing it among the nation’s best colleges and universities and giving it a national reputation for excellence. Philanthropy at VMI also has transformed the lives of cadets.

The VMI education is extraordinary in the way it is structured and even more so in its effects. The transformation of young people from the anxiety-ridden

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Rats of matriculation to the confident graduates of commencement is truly astounding. For many cadets, attending VMI – and undergoing that transformation – is possible only because of the generosity of alumni and friends who established scholarship endowments, as well as those who provide unrestricted gifts through the Foundation Fund. (This year, VMI is using more than $450,000 in unrestricted money for cadet financial aid.) Finally, philanthropy transforms those who become involved in it. It is wonderful, for example, to watch the first class conduct the First Class Campaign. These young people take this effort very seriously and approach the associated tasks with an admirable maturity. It also is a pleasure to watch older alumni engage with cadets at the VMI Foundation’s annual Institute Society Dinner and Benefactors Luncheon. They become energized by their interactions and come away even more enthusiastic about the Institute and its direction.

Also, I always enjoy hearing about how the 10th, 25th and 50th Reunion Campaigns can change the relationships that alumni have with each other and the Institute. Many times, I have been told by the leaders of these campaigns that many of their Brother Rats “came home” through them – rekindling friendships made in Barracks and readjusting their relationships with VMI. It is just as satisfying, however, to be told by an alumnus that he has given a relatively small amount every year for decades because, through his gifts, he plays an important role in the success of his beloved alma mater. Philanthropy has many effects at VMI. Some are obvious. Others are more subtle. All of them, however, are important.

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

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Class of 1963’s 50th Reunion Campaign Sets New Record On April 27, 2013, the class of 1963 presented the Institute with the proceeds of its 50th Reunion Campaign: a record-setting $20,086, 063.63. With this gift, the class of 1963 set a new 50th Reunion Gift record, besting the $20 million amount presented last year by the class of 1962. As with every successful effort on behalf of the Institute, this 50th Reunion Campaign’s success was the result of visionary leaders, dedicated Brother Rats and plenty of prior planning. In late summer 2011 (almost two years before the date of the 50th Reunion), the leaders of the effort – Robert C. Troxler, G. Gilmer Minor III and M.B. “Beau” Walker – began to recruit the members of the Reunion Campaign Committee. By early November, they had 25 recruits, and most of them met on Post for a planning session at which the goals for the campaign were set. According to Troxler, “A key factor in our success was the committee itself. We chose to build a fairly sizable committee, and we worked carefully with [former VMI Foundation Vice President for Annual and Reunion Giving] Pat Webb and the rest of the Foundation staff to bring on board members of the class who had a demonstrated commitment to VMI and, importantly, capacity to do more.” Getting the committee members excited about their work on behalf of the class and the Institute wasn’t much of a problem.

“Aside from the motivational aspects of being on the committee, we had two committee meetings at VMI, and Gen. Peay [’62] made a presentation to us each time,” said Troxler.

“This direct exposure to VMI’s leadership was an incredibly important element. Gen. Peay provided very impressive and candid reflections to us as to where the Institute is today – the many positives, yet also the challenges it faces. These reflections led committee members to commit themselves even more deeply to the campaign and, in many cases, increase their own contributions to the campaign.” On Dec. 6, 2011, the committee sent a letter to the entire class. Besides urging maximum attendance at the reunion, it also laid out the goals of the campaign and the reasons behind it. “This letter conveyed the essence of what the campaign was about – in particular, the valued legacy that VMI represents and the challenge we face in maintaining it,” recalled Troxler.

“That was the core message that we carried forward throughout this effort.” Although the class presented a record-setting gift to VMI, the initial goal was $15 million in gifts and commitments. Asked how the goal of $20 million was set, Troxler explained, “Our initial goal

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was $15 million, which seemed challenging at that time. Frankly, the idea of setting a new record seemed overly ambitious at that early stage. Even after our first campaign committee meeting, after hearing from Gen. Peay and being directly exposed to VMI as it is today – the cadets, the impressive infrastructure, the improved academics – we began to sense that we should reach for more. But considering the financial challenges that many Brother Rats still faced, we stuck to the initial goal. “At our second committee meeting,” he explained, “two committee members, Gil Minor and Jim Griffin, came forward and, in highly emotive and entirely convincing fashion, made the point that, for the benefit of the legacy that VMI represents, we should at least try to match the achievement of the esteemed class of ’62, if not exceed it by at least $63!” The new goal did not seem to daunt the Brother Rats of ’63 from joining the effort. In fact, in the end, 80 percent of the class made a gift or commitment to the Reunion Campaign. Troxler put it down to his Brother Rats’ already strong loyalty to the Institute. “Bottom line, the class was wellmotivated,” he said. “Time and time again, they communicated a sense of appreciation for the core values that VMI represents – honor, respect, loyalty – and the associated disciplines that have served us well in our lives. There is a sense of gratitude for having benefited – educationally and otherwise – from certain professors whose influence remained with us throughout our lives. In some cases, Brother Rats cited what they learned in particular departments as being exceptionally valuable to them in their careers and lives.” Asked to evaluate the long-term effects of the campaign, Troxler replied, “As the committee wrote in the

first letter to the class, VMI represents something of great value to our country. Given the financial realities that it faces today, including a decline in public support, if the Institute’s alumni do not step up to provide financial support, its value to our country will diminish.

That is why our campaign was so important and why those in the future will remain so.” So many people were involved in the Reunion Campaign, and Troxler was reluctant to cite those whose service stood out. “My sense is that it was a collaborative effort on the part of the committee as a whole that made the difference. However, I do want to thank Pat Webb for his support and encouragement; it was essential to our success.” Troxler’s fellow chairmen were quick to assign him no small share of the credit. “Bob Troxler led this effort from Geneva, Switzerland, and anywhere he travelled on business, such as the Middle East,” said Walker. “It was – and is – amazing that he was able to do this, considering the demands of his job, and just as amazing that he was able to come back for two committee meetings.” Gil Minor also praised Troxler’s work, stating, “Bob’s leadership, passion and example were inspirational to all of us in the class. He truly was the reason we all came together to honor our beloved Institute.”

“The class of 1963 came together in an amazing way to make an extraordinary gift in support of the Institute and its Corps of Cadets,” said Walton M. Jeffress Jr. ’68, president of the VMI Foundation. “Although the leaders of this effort might not want to claim any credit, they deserve a lot of it for their vision and determination. All of the Brother Rats of this class deserve the thanks of the entire VMI family for making this record-setting gift.”

The class of 1963 marched into Barracks during the traditional Reunion Parade on April 27, 2013. Minutes before, the class presented the Institute with the proceeds of their record-setting 50th Reunion Campaign: more than $20 million.

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VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Taylor ’75 Never Lost Sight of VMI’s Impact on His Career

by George Abry, Contributing Writer

The Institute was created by its founders as another opportunity to make a difference when ing him finish college. “When I start adding an experiment in higher education, its mission he was asked to be the campaign chairman them up, there were so many people who just to produce citizen-soldier leaders for all walks for the United Way of Southeast Louisiana. stepped up at the right time for me, and I am of life, committed to service, sacrifice, honor Fundraising was interrupted in 2012 by the just one example [of those who] benefited from arrival of Hurricane Isaac, which turned their generosity.” and integrity – guys like Gary Taylor ’75.

Although the Taylors’ planned gift has been “VMI’s values are more relevant than ever,” Taylor’s fundraising campaign into more of a put in place, Taylor said the particulars are Taylor said. “People don’t trust big busistill being worked out. On a recent visit ness any more, and the whole concept to VMI, Taylor met with Superintendent of doing what’s right, being honest, Peay ’62, as well as representatives of the dealing with the truth and knowing that Center for Leadership and Ethics (CLE), facts do matter is something that comes with which Taylor said he is especially from VMI.” impressed.

In May 2012, Taylor, 60, retired as “I think there is a strong linkage begroup president, Utility Operation Entween what the CLE can do and what tergy Corp., the company he joined in is really important for cadets who may 2000 as chief operating officer. During be entering the business world,” Taylor his tenure, Entergy Nuclear integrated said. “There are a lot of good managers the company’s utility and non-utility nuclear organizations. Taylor was re- Becky and Gary Taylor ’75 in their New Orleans, but not a lot of great leaders in business.

Business isn’t about managing; it’s about sponsible for the nuclear restoration fol- Louisiana, home. leading people.” lowing Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and Ultimately Taylor wants to do what he can to he was part of the executive team overseeing flood-relief effort, as well as another firsthand the overall restoration from Katrina and Hur- look at devastation. As a result of that work, help VMI continue to produce citizen-soldiers. ricane Rita that same year. In 2008, he oversaw Taylor remains an active volunteer in the “I intend to stay involved with the school. The the company’s restoration and recovery efforts United Way. “I think that is one of the things time I have spent in working with the [VMI] I learned from VMI without realizing it – how Foundation and my recent visit to Lexington following Hurricanes Gustav and Ike. have created a desire to be involved with In 2005, Entergy New Orleans, a subsidiary important service is.”

Over the years, Taylor’s business and charity the strategic direction of the school and the of Entergy Corp., was placed in bankruptcy. In 2007, Taylor took over the company’s electric work have kept him busy, but he never has lost cadets.” and gas business for Entergy. This was part of sight of VMI’s impact on his career. “When I an effort to recover Entergy New Orleans from look back at that fork in the road, that decision bankruptcy and rebuild the business, including to go to VMI, it was the one that shaped the Becky Taylor’s both electric and natural gas infrastructure in rest of my life,” Taylor said.

Last fall, Taylor and his wife, Becky, decided New Orleans – a monumental undertaking Perspective that led to some soul-searching. “I did that for they wanted to give something back to VMI. “Gary and I have had many confive years, and it was fun. But I decided that Together they made a planned gift to the VMI versations about how best to help I really wanted to do something else with my Foundation.

“My wife and I made this decision together; life,” Taylor said. others. These discussions always The last couple of years with Entergy, Taylor it was one we had talked about for a while. I led us back to a conversation had served on the board of the U.S. Chamber knew there was going to be a point in time, about VMI and how the graduates of Commerce as an Entergy representative. especially since I was retiring, when I would have made an important impact It was there that he learned about Hiring want to do something for VMI,” Taylor said. in almost every walk of life. The Our Heroes, a U.S. Chamber of Commerce “We wanted to put something in place that education gained from the VMI Foundation initiative launched in 2011 which would give cadets a chance to complete the experience has made a huge helps veterans, transitioning service members VMI experience and for us to leave a legacy difference in our society. I, too, and spouses find jobs. Entergy became a major that meant something. We just wanted to pay feel the need to support the VMI sponsor of hundreds of job fairs around the back many of the people that helped me.” mission. I also would like to help Despite his obvious success as a top execucountry. Taylor travelled to job fairs throughensure that there will always be out the South and Northeast, meeting with tive and business leader, Taylor’s upbringing veterans. He appeared on the “Today Show” was considerably more humble. His dad was a place like VMI, a place of higher with Tom Brokaw in a segment that high- a union worker and his parents lived paycheck learning which offers a rich envilighted what Entergy was doing as a company. to paycheck. “When I went to VMI, a lot of ronment needed for creating those “All of the other stuff you do in your career is people like me had to work to get through ethical leaders our country always interesting, but this one really made a differ- school,” said Taylor, who credits a two-year needs.”

AFROTC scholarship and a character-building ence,” Taylor said.

Shortly before he retired, Taylor received stint on a New Jersey chicken farm with help-

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VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Class of 2013’s First Class Campaign Hits Records In the world of philanthropy, the Christmas his three Brother Rats forward. “They wanted Jones, “starting with weekly e-mail messages season is considered the season of giving, to help, because they could tell that the job of a describing the campaign and its goals. Soon, in which charitable giving booms. At VMI, class agent is a big one. And with 340 Brother we were sending daily messages and talking however, there is no single season of giving but Rats, I figured the more people who can reach with people face to face.”

Regarding reactions to the solicitations, many. Alumni and friends give in December out the better.”

In order to ensure success, the four cadets Jones explained, “In the e-mail messages, and June, the last month of the fiscal year.

In conjunction with fall reunion weekends, and others in the class of 2013 used the tools we asked for feedback. Many members of classes observing their 25th and 10th Re- that their VMI education provided. “We knew the class were sold on the idea but saw an obstacle in their financial conunions present their respective dition. Basically, they were not Reunion Campaign proceeds. sure that they had the means to At every spring reunion weekgive. To them, we said that the end, the 50th Reunion class campaign’s emphasis was on makes a gift. Since 2005, each participation, and they should graduating class has presented give whatever they could.” the proceeds of its First Class “Of course,” he continued, Campaign to the superintendent “we had a good number of at the Graduation Parade. This Brother Rats who were angry year, the Brother Rats of the or frustrated at some expericlass of 2013 presented VMI ence they had as cadets. This with a gift of $33,920.13. This was not a surprise, as everyone gift was provided by 115 cadets had at least one bad experience or 34 percent of the class. These On May 14, 2013, at the Graduation Parade, the class of 2013 preat VMI. What we said to them figures represented new records sented VMI with the proceeds of its First Class Campaign: $33,920.13. for the First Class Campaign in This gift was provided by 115 cadets or 34% of the class. Both in terms was, ‘Support what kept you terms of money and participa- of gifts and commitments, as well as class participation, these figures here, not what you didn’t like.’

“Some of our Brother Rats tion, in keeping with the class represented new records for the First Class Campaign. Presenting the of 1963’s effort. (See article gift on behalf of the class were Justin Klein, class historian; Woody became very excited, especially about the class of ’63’s 50th Skudin, class vice president; John Dommert, class president; and about the scholarship, because Reunion gift in this section of Charlie Jones, class agent. Gen. J.F. Binford Peay III ’62, superinten- they had received financial dent, far right, accepted the gift on behalf of the Institute, and Brian assistance,” said Jones. “Oththe Review).

This success was the logical S. Crockett, CEO of the VMI Foundation, far left, accepted it on behalf ers were inspired to give to a specific activity. For example, conclusion of an effort that of the VMI Alumni Agencies. some BRs from Band Combegan in spring 2012. Then, Charles P. Jones ’13 was selected by his that we had a big mission to tackle, and there- pany contributed in support of the pipes and Brother Rats as class agent. Almost immedi- fore, we needed to plan.” The planning process drums.”

Jones made another interesting point. “A ately, three of his Brother Rats – Greg Olson, began with the development of a campaign Sean Rogers and John Wilson – volunteered mission and vision statement, as well as the large number of Brother Rats who were not their services as co-class agents, and Jones best strategy to execute the goals set therein. able to make a gift told us that our effort helped accepted their offers just as quickly. “In the “All of this was based on our leadership train- them develop a different attitude toward the past, classes were smaller, and not much was ing at VMI. It really was second nature to us.” Institute, one that made them step back and Early on, the committee made two deci- understand the Institute in its entirety” he said. expected of the class agents until graduation,” “These new alumni did an outstanding job sions with regard to goals. First, they did not said Jones. “That’s different now.”

It is indeed different, because since 2005, set a dollar goal. “Our emphasis was on par- of coming together in support of VMI,” said each graduating class conducts the First Class ticipation,” said Jones. “We wanted as many Wranek. “In this, however, they were ably Campaign, a fundraising effort in support of members of the class as possible to join the assisted by Sam Sorrells, who runs the dayVMI conducted entirely by members of the effort, to get into the habit of philanthropy to-day aspects of the Barracks Program. Sam performs superbly in this role and no more so class. This gift is part of the Barracks Program, toward VMI.” The second decision was to establish the than this year.” an ongoing effort by the VMI Foundation to Brian S. Crockett, CEO of the VMI Foundaexplain to cadets the historic role of alumni in Class of 2013 Memorial Scholarship. “By improving every aspect of the VMI education establishing a permanent presence on Post, we tion, said, “The class of 2013 must be comand to inculcate in them the same sense of duty hoped to engage the Brother Rat spirit of the mended for a well-planned and well-executed shared by generations of alumni. According class. Moreover, the Barracks Program presen- effort that not only provided vital support to the to Foundation Vice President of Annual and tations often touched on the large number of Institute, but also planted the seeds of life-long Reunion Giving John J. Wranek III ’85, “The cadets who received financial aid. So, a schol- generosity toward VMI within the class. I am First Class Campaign is the way that each class arship seemed appropriate,” continued Jones. sure that many other alumni will look at the The effort kicked into high gear in spring commitment of these young men and women makes the transition from cadets to alumni.”

Jones said that knowledge of the demands of 2013. “The committee engaged the entire and be inspired by what they were able and the First Class Campaign is what helped bring class beginning in early April,” recalled willing to do.”

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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 May 1 through July 31, 2013.

Mrs. Donna M. Adams

Col. and Mrs. Douglas E. Taylor

Mr. Alfred S. Aldrich Jr. ’67 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. Carter R. Anderson Jr. ’67 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Col. Paul L. Applin Jr. ’48B, USA Ms. Lillian I. Gerstman Dr. Richard B. Griffin Mr. Kenneth McDonald Jr. ’56 Mr. Armand W. Wagner ’57

Mr. Richard B. Baker ’84

Mr. Charles J. Foster IV ’84

Mr. Robert M. Bartenstein ’43 Mrs. Robert M. Bartenstein

Kitty McKenna Brothers

D. Christy Brothers ’69, M.D.

Maj. Gen. Joseph D. Brown IV ’80, USAF Mr. Robert W. Leatherbury ’80 Mr. Kenneth McDonald Jr. ’56 Col. John M. Patton ’42 USAF (Ret)

Mrs. Sue Brown

Mr. Robert W. Leatherbury ’80 Col. John M. Patton ’42, USAF (Ret)

Mr. Eugene W. Browning ’69 Class of 1969

Mr. Lindsay U. Bruce Jr. Mr. David B. Bruce ’94

Col. William J. Buchanan ’50B Col. and Mrs. Douglas E. Taylor

Dr. Chester F. Burgess Jr.

Mr. Robert R. Sparks Jr. ’69

The Honorable Bruce B. Cameron Jr. ’38

Mr. Warren J. Bryan ’71 and Mrs. Bryan Mr. and Mrs. Page Teer

Mr. George L. Barton IV ’66

Mr. Peter R. Candler ’71

Mr. Nathaniel Beaman III ’46

Mr. A. Mark Casey Jr. ’49B

Mrs. Margaret B. Bell

Mr. James P. Chambers ’44

1st Lt. William B. Bell ’67, USA

Mr. Webster M. Chandler Jr. ’46

Mr. Howard M. Lloyd Jr. ’66

Mr. Nathaniel Beaman IV ’74

Col. John R. Cavedo ’64, USA (Ret) Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. John W. Benson ’54

William O. Turner, Jr. ’54, Ph.D.

Mr. William W. Berry ’54

Mr. Glendel W. Cock ’54 Judge W. Swan Yerger ’54 (Ret)

Frank N. Bilisoly III ’43, M.D. Mr. C. Knox Hubard ’69 Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

Mr. W.R. Blandford Jr. ’69 Mr. Warren M. Childress ’69

Mr. Keith E. Bonn

Mr. Raymond O. Denman Jr.

Lt. Gen. F.C. Booker Jr. ’41, USANG Class of 1941

Mr. J. Franklin Bradshaw Jr. F.G. Pruitt Inc.

Mr. James R. Breckinridge ’67 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

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Col. Richard B. Littleton Jr. ’71, USAR (Ret) Mrs. A. Mark Casey Jr.

Mr. Robert P. Jones Jr. ’44 and Mrs. Jones Mr. Ronald L. Gault ’49B Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

Class of 1979

Capt. Asa H. Page III ’79, USN (Ret)

Mrs. John Cole Jr.

Henry G. White Jr. ’54, M.D., and Mrs. White

CW2 Howard J. Cook III ’01

Mr. and Mrs. Howard J. Cook Jr. Mr. William F. Steinbach II ’99

Paul Revere Cornwall

Mr. William C. Cowardin Jr. ’63

Mr. Edwin Cox III ’53 Anonymous

Mrs. Edwin Cox III Anonymous

Mrs. Cortlandt P. Creech

Mrs. Cortlandt C. Freeman

Mr. William E. Crumpler ’53

Col. Edward P. Davis ’49C, USA

Mr. and Mrs. Everett H. Bennett Class of 1949C Col. George W. Dooley Jr. ’49B, USAF (Ret) Mr. Haywood G. France ’49C Ms. Linda L. Gibson Freddie and Woody Jolley Administrative Team of the Chester Union Free School District Ms. Kathleen A. Kurtz Mr. and Mrs. Christopher J. Lang Mr. and Mrs. Joseph D. Liberatore Mr. and Mrs. Ronald H. Olney Mr. James L. Patton ’49B Mr. and Mrs. Richard A. Reynolds Mr. Michael Weisgarber

Mr. William G. Davis ’68

Laura and Bill Barrier Ms. Cynthia P. Beukema Dr. and Mrs. John K. Campbell Mrs. Marion B. Carson Class of 1968 Mr. John S. Cockey Jr. ’63 Mr. Allan Davis Mr. and Mrs. William F. Etherington Mr. Kevin J. Henry ’68 Mr. W. Bogart Holland ’68 Mr. Herbert W. Laine ’68 Col. James D. Polley IV ’68, USA (Ret) Fred and Willadean, Roy and Jane and Family, Mary and Doris Radabaugh Mr. Nicholas Renwick Don and Bette Rosenbaum Mr. John D. Royster ’68 and Mrs. Royster Ms. Helen G. Runyan Dr. and Mrs. Mark J. Warburton

Col. Charles H. Dayhuff Jr. ’931, USA Lt. Col. Charles H. Dayhuff III ’59, USAR (Ret)

Deceased Brother Rats in the Class of 1955 Mr. Ronald M. Bryan ’55

Mrs. Frances C. Denman

Mr. Raymond O. Denman Jr.

Mr. John J. Dickinson Sr. ’56

Mr. R. Lewis Boggs Mr. Michael B. Howle ’99 Mr. James E. Mann Jr. ’56 and Mrs. Mann Mr. F. Byron Parker Jr. ’65 Mr. and Mrs. J. William Reid

Mr. Richey S. Dickson ’50B Mr. Charles W. Bragg Jr. ’50B

Ms. Celestia Dillard

Mrs. Frances W. Arehart Mr. William A. Gregory ’66

Mrs. Elizabeth F. Dillard Mr. William A. Gregory ’66

Mr. W. Scott Crumpler ’82

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Col. Herbert N. Dillard Jr. ’934 Mr. William A. Gregory ’66 Mr. Philip G. Hannum Jr. ’71

Col. Samuel W. Dobyns ’41, USAF Mr. Felix E. Deacon III ’77

Sgt. Ryan E. Doltz ’00, ANG

Mr. Matthew S. McComas ’00 Mr. William F. Steinbach II ’99 Maj. David D. Troxell ’02, USAF

Donald J. Dunlap ’54, D.Min. Mr. Glendel W. Cock ’54

Mr. Charles E. Early ’47 Mr. Thomas R. Culler Jr.

Mr. Wayne R. Eggleston ’88 Mr. Richard A. Duke ’90

Mr. Tazewell Ellett III ’44

Mr. Ronald L. Gault ’49B Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

The Reverend T. Nelson Elliott Jr. ’62 Mr. Robert R. Evans ’62

William G. Ellis Jr. ’55, M.D.

Akron Children’s Hospital – Medical Staff Mr. Ronald M. Bryan ’55 Dr. Sidney E. Corbin Mr. Chester E. Danforth Mr. and Mrs. Duane Decker Ms. Catharine C. Ferguson Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Finley Col. S.R. Hanmer Jr. ’55, USA (Ret) Mr. and Mrs. Ralph E. Hickman II Mr. and Mrs. Kent L. Johnson Karam & Simon Realty Inc. Dr. and Mrs. Brian Keaton Ms. Joanne Kitchin Mr. Frank J. Leech ’55 Mr. Dale M. Lewison Dr. Alfred J. Magoline Jr. Dr. Edward T. Marshall Jr. Phyllis J. Mesko Dr. and Mrs. William Moats Mr. and Mrs. Donal P. O’Rourke Mr. and Mrs. William E. Painter PM Leggett Elementary Schools Ms. Roxy Quatraro Mr. and Mrs. Raymond A. Ragazzo Dr. and Mrs. Irv R. Reisberg Mike and Patty Schnellinger Mr. Ernest Surnegie Ms. Levonia Swails Mr. and Mrs. George F. Williams Mr. Gregory Yorgey

Mr. John Fenton

Mr. Graham L. Undercoffer ’74

Lt. Russell C. Flournoy ’99, USN Mr. William F. Steinbach II ’99

Lt. Arthur L. Galloway Jr. ’69, USA Mr. Russell S. Evans Jr. ’65

2013-Issue 4

Mr. Charles A. Gearhart

Lt. Joshua C. Hurley ’01, USA

James Samuel Gillespie III ’94

Mr. James R. Hutcheson ’69

Mr. Warren M. Goddard Jr. ’53

Lt. Col. Michael M. Irvine Jr. ’59, USA

Mr. G. William Gearhart Jr. ’70 Col. and Mrs. George Piegari

Mrs. Cathryn Cutrer Holland Mr. J. Arthur Moncrief ’53

Dr. Paul J. Graham

Mr. Graham L. Undercoffer ’74

Mr. and Mrs. Fred E. Way

Mr. Joseph B. Farrar Jr. ’69

Mr. Richard E. Phillippi ’59

Capt. Andrea D. Jackson ’847, USA Capt. Henry E. Marx

Mr. Dennis W. Graves ’67

Mr. L. Eugene Johnson Jr. ’56

Mrs. Elmon T. Gray

Lt. Col. George L. Jones III ’55, USAF

Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. and Mrs. R. Beale Pope

The Honorable Elmon T. Gray ’46 Anonymous Mr. and Mrs. R. Beale Pope

Mr. John S. Gray ’51

Mr. Henry L. Baxley Jr. ’51 Dr. and Mrs. Julian W. Selig Jr.

Eugene R. Griffith ’55, M.D. Mr. John P. Griffith

Lt. Col. Jeffrey D. Guild ’70, USA Mr. G. William Gearhart Jr. ’70

Lt. Col. Carroll B. Guthrie III ’67, USA Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mrs. Gail Guthrie

Mr. John Overton Guthrie ’71

Mr. William A. Hallett Jr. ’47

Mr. Robert P. Jones Jr. ’44 and Mrs. Jones Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

Mr. Howard R. Hammond

Col. Glenn B. Hammond ’69, USAFR (Ret) and Lt. G. Barry Hammond ’06, USAF

Col. Leroy D. Hammond ’57 Mrs. Leroy D. Hammond

Mr. Chaps Hawthorne

Lt. Col. Robert C. Hawthorne ’70, USAF (Ret)

James Hayes

Mrs. Dorothy Lindsey

Mr. Shawn G. Hogan ’06

Lt. Christopher M. Stolle ’06, USN

Mr. William H. Hoofnagle Jr. ’36 Mr. Jackson M. Andrews IV ’68

Mr. William C. Hope III ’62 Mr. Tucker M. Maloney ’85

Mr. Kenneth McDonald Jr. ’56

Mr. Gwynne H. Jones Jr. ’50B

Col. Royce E. Jones ’55

Mr. R. Craig Jones ’80 Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

Mr. Dan L. Jordan ’67

Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Capt. John W. Judge ’81, USNR Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

Patricia Keilty

Cmdr. Kevin J. Keilty ’83, USN (Ret), and Mrs. Keilty

Capt. John W. Kennedy ’69, USAF Mr. John W. Zunka ’69

Mr. Ernest L. Keppel ’42

Mrs. J.T. Antonelli Mr. C. Jordan Ball Jr. Ms. Margaret Karen Berkness Mr. Arthur Brown Mr. Richard H. Catlett Jr. ’43 and Mrs. Catlett Mrs. Charles C. Chewning Mr. H. Waldo Forster Jr. ’46 Mrs. James Hume Jr. Mrs. Ted B. Jacobsen Mrs. William F. Kastelberg Mr. Frank G. Louthan Jr. ’41 and Mrs. Louthan Mrs. Jack M. Parrish Jr. Dr. and Mrs. Watson O. Powell Jr. Col. Steven Riethmiller ’63 and Mrs. Riethmiller Beau and Betty Lynne Robertson Mrs. Calvin Satterfield III Mr. Harry J. Siebert ’42 Mrs. Wortham A. Spilman Jr.

Capt. Mark D. Lamb ’88, USA

Cmdr. Stephen C. Pearson ’88, USN (Ret)

Mr. Robert R. Laville ’51

Mr. Carl R. Carstens ’51 and Mrs. Carstens Mr. Joe T. Howard ’51 and Mrs. Howard Mr. John J. Ross III ’51 and Mrs. Ross Mr. Jacob H. Wamsley II ’51 and Mrs. Wamsley

169

VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Frank J. Lee ’42, M.D.

Mr. Harry J. Siebert ’42

Cmdr. H.M. Lloyd ’923, USN Mr. Howard M. Lloyd Jr. ’66

Mr. Raymond V. Long ’38 Mrs. Paulett L. Taggart

Mr. Joseph E. Martin Jr. ’72

Mr. and Mrs. Charles B. Upshaw III

Mr. William P. Meisel ’66

Mr. Howard M. Lloyd Jr. ’66

Mr. Peter M. Meredith ’50B

Mr. H. Clarkson Meredith III ’81 Mrs. Leslie Waters

Mr. John A. Michelsen ’57 Mr. Jack A. Prizzi ’56

Mr. W. Clark Minnigerode ’92 Mr. W. Marshall Simpson ’90

Maj. Joseph G. Mixson ’57, USMC Mrs. Joseph G. Mixson

Col. J.H. Montague ’44, USA

Mr. Robert P. Jones Jr. ’44 and Mrs. Jones

Mrs. Anne L. Moore

Mrs. Hugh C. Barnes Jr. Mr. and Mrs. L. Preston Bryant Mr. Jennings B. Bunch Jr. ’50A Mr. William R. Davidson ’55 Mr. and Mrs. Wilson L. Dickerson Jr. Col. George W. Dooley Jr. ’49B, USAF (Ret) Gift from Charlie and Linda Elliott, Mary Streeper and Charle Enterprise Lighting Company LLC The H.T. Hackney Company Hill City Wholesale Co. Inc. Mr. Elliott W. Hudgins III ’50A and Mrs. Hudgins Mr. and Mrs. James C. Lester Sonny and Lou Merryman Ms. Adrienne Miller Quality Foods Cooperative Inc. Sydnor L. Stealey Jr. ’50A, DMD Mr. and Mrs. David L. Stokes Mr. and Mrs. William V. Strain Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Tait ’55, USA (Ret), and Mrs. Tait

Mr. Robert M. Moore ’74

Ms. Jennifer Abbondanza Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Aimone Ms. Debra Bahr Mrs. Hillary Bassett Mr. Michael R. Battaglia ’64 Col. (Ret) Elizabeth Brown Mrs. Samantha Cairns William H. Candler Jr. ’74, D.O. Mr. Cornelius Carmody Col. Michael Coughlan Anonymous Col. David DeMartino

170

Mr. David S. Farnsworth ’81 Col. Patrick J. Flynn ’74, USA (Ret) Mr. Dan Gould HDR Engineering Inc. Ms. Catherine V. Jerrard Col. Kurt Kaisler (Ret) Mr. Mark Kinkade Mr. Perry Lamy Reverend Gerald E. Libby and Family Mr. Albert F. Lowas Jr. Ms. Gloria A. Luna Ms. Kelly Marshall Anonymous Mr. Robert Miller Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Munter Lt. Col. William Nixon Mrs. Elaine Norman Mr. John E. Pate ’74 Col. and Mrs. Mark Perodeau Mr. Sam Rupe Capt. Tonda Sallee Mr. and Mrs. Ron J. Schlicher Family of Charles Stratton Mr. Michael Trexler Mr. Graham L. Undercoffer ’74 United Communities Col. Terry Watkins (Ret) Mr. Joe Weathersby Ms. Jo Ann Whitson Mr. Eric Williams Mr. R.L. Terrell Williams ’74

Mr. John L. Morgan ’55

Mr. W. Massie Meredith Jr. ’79

Mr. C. Thomas Mustian ’65 Mrs. C. Thomas Mustian

Mr. H. Albert Nance Jr. ’67 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mrs. Elizabeth Neikirk

Mr. Warren J. Bryan ’71 and Mrs. Bryan Mr. James D. Gearhart ’71

The Reverend James H. Newsom Jr. ’47

Mrs. James H. Newsom, Jr.

Mr. E. Marshall Newton III ’54 Mrs. Edward M. Newton III

Mr. Michael C. Northrop ’86

Lt. Col. Robert D. Yearout ’62, USA (Ret)

Walter J. O’Donohue Jr. ’57, M.D. Mrs. Maria S. Brookhouser

Mr. Daniel J. Ogle ’63

Mrs. Frances W. Arehart

Mr. C.W. O’Leary, Jr. ’47

Mrs. Cornelius W. O’Leary Jr.

Mrs. Betty B. O’Neil

Maj. Gen. Thomas H. Tait ’55, USA (Ret), and Mrs. Tait

Mr. Asa H. Page Jr.

Capt. Asa H. Page III ’79, USN (Ret)

Clinton E. Parker ’57, Ph.D. Mrs. Clinton E. Parker

Mr. John Pasco Jr. ’39

Mr. and Mrs. Charles K. Lorraine

Mrs. Nell G. Pasco

Mr. and Mrs. Charles K. Lorraine

Mr. John D. Pointer ’56

Mr. Kenneth McDonald Jr. ’56

1st Lt. Chase Prasnicki

Mrs. Frances W. Arehart Mr. Thomas W. Howard ’65 Col. and Mrs. Douglas E. Taylor Mr. Reynolds Young ’66 and Mrs. Young

Mr. Donald F. Prystaloski ’63 Mr. Lance V. Bevins ’63

The Reverend G. William Ralph ’54 Mr. Glendel W. Cock ’54

Mr. Philip R. Ramsey ’70

Mr. G. William Gearhart Jr. ’70

1st Lt. Charles A. Ransom ’01, USAF Maj. William R. O’Neal ’01, USA

Jerry Rhein

Mr. Graham L. Undercoffer ’74

Col. Herbert E. Ritchey

J.J. Kleinschuster ’64, Ph.D.

Mr. Scott D. Roberts ’67 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. James W. Rountree Jr. ’67 Ms. Karin R. Benningfield Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. Melvin P. Rucker ’83

Mr. Thomas W. Throckmorton

Mr. Eugene R. Rushton IV ’83 Mr. Thomas W. Throckmorton

Mrs. Patsy Russell

Mr. and Mrs. T. Glenn Wilson

Mr. Eduardo A. Santos ’54 Mrs. Eduardo A. Santos

Jay R. Sculley ’62, Ph.D.

Col. and Mrs. George Piegari Mr. John E. Woodward III ’78

Mr. Wilson E.D. Shepherd ’50B Ms. Sallie G. Shepherd

Mrs. Jane H. Smith

Mr. and Mrs. John Q. Deaver Col. William B. Garber Jr. ’64, USA (Ret)

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Mrs. James O. Hodgkin III ’43 Mrs. Phyllis H. Kent Ms. Ebba Jo Spettel

R. Deaton Smith Jr. ’69, M.D.

Class of 1969 Mr. Joe T. Howard ’51 and Mrs. Howard

Brig. Gen. G.M. Snead Jr. ’43, USA Mr. Brian H.M. Bowen Sr. ’43

Mr. Franklin D. Snow

Mr. James D. Gearhart ’71

Brig. Gen. Leo E. Soucek ’49B, USA

Col. George W. Dooley Jr. ’49B, USAF (Ret) Col. Ted N. Mervosh ’67, USAF Mr. Robert A. Newbill ’57 Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81 Col. Daniel G. Smaw III ’49B, USA (Ret), and Mrs. Smaw

Mr. Roland C. Staiano ’84

Mr. Bruce A. Hauck ’84 Mr. Carter L. Jordan ’84 Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

Mr. T. Price Stone Jr. ’65

Mr. Norman E. Land Jr. ’65 Mr. Robert I. Morgan ’65

Mr. Robert W. Storey Ms. Julia G. Storey

Mr. John F. Streetman Jr. ’05

Capt. William P. Angle ’05, USA Mr. Austin Cam Ryan Thomas Clemens ’05, Ph.D. Mr. Anthony A. Cochet Jr. ’05 Mr. Jeremy Coffman Mr. Boyd A. Correll Jr. ’05 Mr. R. Tivris Dixon II ’98 Mr. James Carson Driggs ’05 Capt. Andrew J. Gay ’08, USMC Mrs. Scarlett C. Hazell ’05 Lt. Conor Louis Heely ’05, USN Capt. Samuel Alan Johnson ’05, USMC Mr. Timothy Mark Johnson ’05 Mr. Kevin Porter Jones ’05 Mr. Joshua M. Lyles ’05 Mr. Thomas F. Manley III ’05 Ms. Kathleen McMahon Mr. C. Kirk Stokes ’05 Mr. Aaron T. Thatcher ’05 Mr. Steven J. Watson ’05

Mr. John M. Tabb Jr. ’82

Mr. A.H. Wilson III ’57

Mr. Robert L. Tannen ’67

Mr. J.R. Bland Wilson ’51

Mr. Robert J. Thalman

Lt. Mark R. Wilson ’88, USN

Mr. John F. Thomas ’71

Mr. Donald G. Wise ’61

Mr. Terry Tomlin

Mr. Richard W. Wolffe

Mr. Eugene N. Touchstone ’67

Mr. John H. Woodfin Sr. ’61

Mr. James J. True Sr. ’59

Col. Clement L. Woodward ’53, USAR

Mr. Carter D. Augustine ’81 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. Thomas W. Throckmorton Mr. John J. Walklet III ’71 Mrs. Janet T. Hamner Mr. W.L. Hatcher Jr. ’70 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. Richard E. Phillippi ’59

Mr. Charles Undercoffer

Mr. Graham L. Undercoffer ’74

Mr. John L. Undercoffer

Mr. Graham L. Undercoffer ’74

Lt. Col. J. Thomas Undercoffer ’56, USA Mr. Graham L. Undercoffer ’74

Mr. Chester Waller

Mrs. Marguerite Waller

Col. Kenneth A. Walters ’87, USAF Anthony S. Brads ’87, Ed.D.

Mrs. Dorothy J. Watling

Col. George W. Dooley Jr. ’49B, USAF (Ret)

Mr. N. Thatcher Watson ’50B Mr. H. Braxton Green ’50B

Mr. Robert L. Watson ’64

Mr. Robert L. Byrd ’63 Mr. John R. Prosser ’65 and Mrs. Prosser

Mr. Larry W. Wertz ’67 Mr. John J. Sheeran ’67

Mr. Hugh V. White Jr. ’54 Mrs. Hugh V. White Jr.

Mr. Thomas K. Whitesel Jr. ’53 Mr. John M. Townes III ’53

Lt. Col. Stephen M. Sullivan ’84, USMC

Lt. David L. Williams ’91, USN

Mr. Galen W. Swank ’03

Mr. Francis B. Williams Jr. ’43

Mr. Barry W. Coceano ’84

Mr. Brian L. Desautels ’03 Dennis C. Drinkwater Jr. ’03, M.D. Mr. Paul D. Quinn ’03

Maj. Paul R. Syverson III ’93, USA Maj. Christopher J. Kemper ’93, USA, (Ret)

2013-Issue 4

Mr. Hans C. Peeders ’91

Mr. Brian H.M. Bowen Sr. ’43

Mr. John M. Willis III ’71

Mr. Wayne W. Hepler Jr. ’71 Mr. Richard E. Randolph ’71 Mr. John J. Walklet III ’71

Mrs. A.H. Wilson III

Mr. H. Braxton Green ’50B

Mr. and Mrs. Paul L. Wilson Jr. C. Alison Drescher ’61, D.D.S. Mr. David C. Hagemann ’80 Mr. John H. Woodfin Jr. ’91

Mrs. Edwin H. Artz Jr. Mr. Jeff C. Bane ’53 Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Bland Mr. and Mrs. William W. Broach Jr. Mr. Ronald M. Bryan ’55 Mr. Warren J. Bryan ’71 and Mrs. Bryan The Clement Family J. Parker Cross Jr. ’53, M.D. Dr. and Mrs. Anthony Deep Ms. Elizabeth T. Fore Mrs. Warren M. Goddard Jr. Mr. Stephen M. Goddard ’83 and Mrs. Goddard Ms. Elizabeth Y. Hall Mr. Herold R. Hofheimer ’53 and Mrs. Hofheimer Mr. Richard D. Justice ’56 Mr. and Mrs. James E. Kulp Mr. and Mrs. William H. McLarin Mr. Maurice F. Menefee Jr. ’58 Mr. Charles B. Miller ’42 Keith and Bob Miller ’53 Floyd L. Moore ’53, D.D.S. Ms. Frances G. Morris Mr. and Mrs. R. Milton Owen Mr. Kenneth M. Perry ’53 Mr. Norman C. Plunkett ’54 and Mrs. Plunkett Richmond Virginia Council Navy League of the United States Mr. and Mrs. John C. Sale Mr. Alan A. Teele Mr. John K. Tiller Jr. ’54 Mr. John M. Townes III ’53 Mr. Walter D. Tucker Ms. Elizabeth S. Waller Mr. and Mrs. John R. Weatherman Mr. G. Swift Williams Jr. Mr. Kenneth H. Winston Mrs. Clement L. Woodward, Cmdr.

William O. Woodward ’92 and Mrs. Woodward, William and Catherine Mr. Frank T. Wootton Jr. ’53 and Mrs. Wootton

Mr. John E. Woodward Jr. ’42 Mr. Harry J. Siebert ’42

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VMI FOUNDATION, INC. Mr. DeWitt S. Worrell ’62

Mr. John C. McCue Col. and Mrs. George Piegari Mr. Laurence B. Ritter

Mr. Stephen Worrell

Ms. Charlotte R. Clouse Mr. Bob Macy Ms. Audrey F. Stivers Mr. Robert A. Worrell ’97

Mr. Gregory R. Wright Jr. ’95 Mr. William Blackmon Mr. Thomas Citrano Mrs. Kathleen Owens

Mr. Sherril L. Wright ’52

Mr. Grover C. Outland III ’81

Capt. Luke C. Wullenwaber ’02, USA Mr. Jackson S. Castleberry ’02 Mr. James L. Howard ’02 Mr. Henry S. Papiano ’02

Joseph L. Yon Jr. ’57, M.D. Ms. Edith J. Maffeo

Capital One

Mutual of America

Coca-Cola Company

Nationwide Foundation

Dominion Foundation

Norfolk Southern Foundation

Mr. Jason W. Ancarrow ’97 Mr. Daniel F. Wells ’67 Mr. David E. Ayers ’64 Mr. Rudolph J. Bartol ’79 Mr. H.A. Curle Jr. ’76 Mr. James L. Mallon ’76 Mr. F. Brian McNeil ’65 Mr. John S. Thornton Jr. ’64

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 May 1 through July 31, 2013.

Altria Group Inc.

Mr. John R. Munno ’84 Mr. Joseph I. Munno ’12

Amsted Industries

Mr. and Mrs. Frederick W. Mills

BAE Systems

Mr. William E. Grant ’76 Mr. and Mrs. Michael Graziano

Bank of America Foundation Inc. Mr. James C. Cosby ’82 Ivan A. Marcotte ’83, Ph.D.

Battelle

Mr. Mathew T. Wright ’10

Bechtel Foundation

Mr. Hunter F. Taylor ’67

The Boeing Company

Maj. John R. Davis ’74, USAF (Ret) Mr. Jeff Hanna ’52

Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation

Lt. Col. William E. Wray Jr. ’63, USAR (Ret)

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Mr. Wymer W. Manning Jr. ’54 Mr. James D. Gearhart ’71 Mr. Phillip R. Ogden ’63 Mr. Edwin R. Trinkle ’70 Mr. Lawrence E. Wetsel Jr. ’61

PepsiCo Foundation

Col. Peter L. Philp ’51, USA (Ret)

The Dow Chemical Company Foundation

Pfizer Foundation

The Duke Energy Foundation

Pitney Bowes Company

Eaton Corporation

PNC Foundation

Mr. Roderick W. Kallgren ’48B Mr. Stuart N. Heishman ’86 Mrs. Marshall Wright

The General Electric Foundation Mr. Jennings B. Bunch Jr. ’50A

IBM Corporation

Matching Gifts

Mr. Matthew Wright Atkinson ’80

Mr. Thomas G. Allen ’64 Mr. T. Bryan Barton ’68 Mr. Joseph R. Brenner ’55 Mr. Richard G. Condit ’72 Col. Louis C. Delisio ’52, USAF (Ret) Mr. G.T. Durvin Jr. ’70 Mr. James A. Griffin ’63 Mr. James P. Hart III ’55 Mr. James E. Henry Jr. ’68 Mr. Harry T. Jones ’63 James C. Kyle Jr. ’57, Ph.D. Mr. Robert S. Miller ’53 Lt. Col. Roy J. O’Connor Mr. E. Jeff Robertson II ’54 Mr. Ira N. Saxe ’39 Mr. Frank H. White ’59 Dr. Gustave L. Zoecklein

Johnson & Johnson Company Mr. John M. Reilly Jr. ’93

Lockheed Martin Corporation

Lt. Col. Marc L. Fielder ’72, USAF (Ret) Mr. John F. Forsyth IV ’67 Mr. Joseph W. Keyes Jr.’82 Lt. Col. David A. Lawrence ’70, USAF (Ret) Maj. Frank A. Oley Jr. ’61, USAF (Ret) Mr. Roy I. Siegel ’77

Markel Corporation

Mr. J. Alfred Broaddus Jr.

The Merck Company Foundation Mr. C. Stewart Snoddy Jr. ’49C

MMC

Mr. Thomas R. Buckner ’69 Mr. Douglas Lawrence Rowe ’71

Mr. Thomas H. Selman III ’84 Mr. Benjamin W.L. Semmes III ’88 Cmdr. E. Wayne Jeffreys and Mrs. Beverly Jeffreys

The Prudential Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Horner

Raytheon Company

Col. Paul G. Munch ’70, USA (Ret)

Shell Oil Company Foundation Mr. Stephen J. Barcik ’59 Mr. Kenneth K. Kauffman

State Farm Companies Foundation Mr. H. Lee Barnes Jr. ’69 Mr. J.G. Goodwillie III ’60

SunTrust Foundation

Mr. and Mrs. Dennis R. Howard Mr. Thomas B. Thompson Jr. ’69 Mr. Vincent A. Wood III ’81

The Harry Frank Guggenheim Foundation Col. Walter P. Lang ’62, USA (Ret)

UBS

Mr. W. Bogart Holland ’68 Mr. Walter P. Massie Jr. ’70

United Technologies Corporation Mr. James R. Greene ’87

The Vanguard Group Foundation Mr. Raymond F. Jaklitsch Jr. ’95

Verizon Foundation

Mr. I. Thomas Orrell ’77 Mr. Ben W.L. Semmes Jr. ’55 Mr. Michael C. Zirkle ’97

Wells Fargo Foundation

Mr. Scott F. McInnis ’00 Mr. and Mrs. R. Beale Pope

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

KEYDET CLUB KEYDET CLUB Keydet Club Wraps Record Year in Support of VMI Athletics This year, in addition to funding the annual scholarship and operations money requested by VMI, the Keydet Club added an unprecedented amount of money to its endowment coffers. In response to the record year, Keydet Club Board President Bill Paulette ’69 said, “I am totally impressed and forever grateful for the enduring generosity and support we continue to see from so many alumni, parents and friends of VMI who support the Institute’s athletic program.” For the most recent fiscal year, the Keydet Club realized a total of $3,178,770 in annual gifts for the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund and all Athletic Operating Funds, while adding a record $1,911,118 to the Keydet Club Scholarship Endowment.

(See table below.) The combined amount

was nearly $1 million more than the $4,118,07 in FY ’10.

“It is clear that we are now seeing donors respond to the undeniable need for the Keydet Club to raise the level of its endowment in the years ahead,” said Greg Cavallaro ’84, CEO of the Keydet Club. “Gen. Peay ’62 has been the biggest advocate for this undertaking, and we are starting to see it gain some real traction, as we created 13 new endowed scholarships this fiscal year. The staff is working hard to identify and encourage those who love VMI and the athletic program to establish endowments that will remain in perpetuity, while generating income to support athletic scholarships. It needs to be understood that our endowment fundraising must come in addition to the

annual demands it takes to finance our robust Division I athletic program. “I believe we will be in a position to truly fund our teams for sustainable success if we can get to the point where our annual membership increases to 4,000 or more members from our current 2,800, and we are bringing in $3.5 to 4 million in annual gifts on a regular basis, while continuing to add precipitously to our endowment,” concluded Cavallaro. It takes a minimum gift of $50,000 over a five-year period to create a named endowed scholarship in the Keydet Club. To become a member of the Keydet Club or to discuss the opportunity to endow a scholarship, please call Donnie Ross ’74, Doug Bartlett, Robert Crumpler ’07, Andrew Deal ’12 or Greg Cavallaro ’84 in the Keydet Club at 1-800/444-1839.

Year:

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Keydet Club/AOF Funds:

$3,550,002

$3,373,641

$2,861,385

$3,180,474

$3,178,770

Keydet Club Endowments: $386,861

$744,432

$694,519

$395,474

$1,911,183

Total KC Funds:

$4,118,074

$3,555,903

$3,575,948

$5,089,953

$3,936,864

Keydet Club Hosts Jeff “Pup” Morgan ’80 Annual Leadership Outing Each year, the Keydet Club hosts the Jeff “Pup” Morgan ’80 Leadership Outing to thank its Leadership Level supporters for their financial contributions to the athletic program. In spite of rain at this year’s outing, held on June 7, 2013, many members were able to catch 18 or 19 holes of golf at the Lexington Golf and Country Club. The sporting clay event was canceled, but the tennis outing at the Washington and Lee University indoor tennis facility was reported to be a great success. In the evening, members gathered at Moody Hall to attend the highlight of the Leadership Outing – a reception, including incredible culinary offerings provided by The Southern Inn. After cocktails and dinner, members were treated to several speakers, including 2013-Issue 4

VMI head coaches and the evening’s special guests, twin brothers and former basketball stars, Chavis and Travis Holmes ’09. The Keydet Club recognized the two Big South Conference Players of the Year – Stan Okoye ’13 (basketball) and Rob Dickinson ’13 (baseball) – as well as

Keydet Club CEO Greg Cavallaro ’84 communicated his appreciation to the Leadership Level members for all they do.

Twin brothers and former Keydet basketball stars, Chavis and Travis Holmes ’09, spoke about what their VMI experience meant to them.

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KEYDET CLUB Basketball Reunion Honors Three Teams

Full Scholarship Donor Ralph Costen ’70, right, with his scholarship recipient, Mackenzie Perkins ’15, who is a member of the VMI water polo team.

Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rifle Coach of the Year Col. Bill Bither. John Harper, current football parent and Keydet Club Board of Governors member, said, “I enjoyed my discussions with the veteran Leadership Level members. The idea that athletics, compounded with the VMI way of life, makes for good leaders was on full display with the young men and women in attendance that night.”

From the Keydet Club’s perspective, CEO Greg Cavallaro ’84 said of the outing, “The Leadership Outing is a highlight of the year, because it allows all those who love VMI athletics and those who support our annual fundraising efforts to come together in a fun and relaxed atmosphere. We are fortunate that our Leadership Level member ranks continue to grow, and we welcome those who aren’t a Leadership Level member in the Keydet Club to consider supporting our cadet-athletes in this much needed way”. Those interested in making a gift (or gifts) to become a Keydet Club Leadership Level member must make a minimum annual gift (between June 1 and July 30) of $1,000 ($750 for the first year) for Big Red Membership. For those whose class graduated in the past 15 years, “Big Red” is available for a gift of $500 (or $375 for the first year).

Note: Go to www.vmi.edu/keydetclub and click on “Membership” for a description of all member levels.

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

174

Three VMI teams were honored at a basketball reunion hosted by the Keydet Club. Held on March 6, 2013, the event was organized in conjunction with the Big South Conference and paid tribute to the teams that made it to the NCAA’s Big Dance. This past year marked the 75th anniversary of the NCAA Tournament. A majority of members from the 1964 team, 1976 team (which was one of the final eight teams in the Division 1 Basketball Championship, i.e., the Elite Eight) and 1977 team (which was one of the final 16 teams in the championship, i.e., the Sweet 16) attended. Members of the current VMI basketball team had a chance to meet the former VMI greats, and a good time was had by all.

Former team members in attendance were: Bill Blair ’64 Buzz Birzenieks ’64 Jeff Gausepohl ’65 Godwin Jones ’65 Joe Kruse ’65 Charlie Schmaus ’66 Curt Reppart ’76 George Borojevich ’77 Will Bynum ’77 Dave Montgomery ’78 Kelly Lombard ’79 Jeryl Salmond ’79 Due to severe winter storms, John Krovic ’77 and Ron Carter ’78 were unable to attend.

From left, Coaches Bill Blair ’64, Charlie Schmaus ’66 and Dugger Baucom with Mrs. Lois Ford, sister of VMI great, Bobby Watson ’64.

VMI Hall of Fame member Joe Kruse ’65, left, and Athletic Director Donny White ’65.

From left, current VMI players D.J. Covington ’14 and Rodney Glasgow ’14 heard about how it was in the good old days from Point Guards Curt Reppart ’76 and Kelly Lombard ’79.

Dave Montgomery ’78, Joe Kruse ’65, Jeff Gausepohl ’65, Godwin Jones ’65 (back), Kelly Lombard ’79 (front), Charlie Schmaus ’66, George Borojevich ’77 (back), Curt Reppart ’76 (front), Jeryl Salmond ’79 and Will Bynum ’77.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

KEYDET CLUB Duncan ’60 and Duncan ’05 Establish Football Scholarship fensive line for the Keydets guard. He earned a masThe Keydet Club recently anwhile earning a bachelor’s ter of commerce degree nounced the establishment of the degree in psychology. Brian from the University of Col. R. Edward Duncan ’60 and is an independent youth Richmond and served Brian E. Duncan ’05 Football counselor with the Orange in the U.S. Army for Scholarship. Both Duncans were County (Virginia) Public 30 years. He also held scholarship recipients and fourSchools, and he lives in administrative and manyear members of the VMI footReva with his wife, Emagement positions at the ball team. “My son, Brian, and I ily. Donnie Ross ’74, who state, regional and lowere fortunate enough to receive financial assistance toward our Duncan ’60 cal government levels. Duncan ’05 is a vice president in the Keydet Club and who deHe retired in 1991 as education at VMI,” said Ed a colonel. Ed runs his own veloped the scholarship, said, “Ed’s genDuncan. “Therefore, I felt that some other young cadet should have beef and commercial hay production erous contribution will provide future the opportunity to achieve athletic and operation at his family farm in Reva, generations of Keydet football players educational goals through this scholar- Virginia, where he lives with his wife the means to attain a college degree and play Division I football here at VMI. The ship.” The elder Duncan graduated from of 32 years, Linda.

His son, Brian, came to VMI from Fork Keydet Club is truly grateful for Ed’s VMI with a bachelor’s degree in history while playing linebacker and offensive Union Military Academy. He played of- kind generosity.”

VMI football team as pictured in the 1960/61 Bomb.

Wetsel ’61 Scholarship Endowed The Keydet Club recently announced thank Larry and Jerri for their visionary the newly formed Jerri and Larry Wetsel benevolence.” Wetsel matriculated at VMI from Warrenton, Virginia. ’61 Athletic Scholarship. This A four-year member of the VMI scholarship, made possible football team under Coach John by the generosity of Mr. and McKenna, Wetsel said, “Having Mrs. Larry Wetsel ’61, will been the beneficiary of a VMI provide grant-in-aid assistance athletic scholarship, I want to to a cadet-athlete of VMI’s provide the same opportunity to Division 1 athletic program. a deserving cadet-athlete.” He Donnie Ross ’74, Keydet Club received his bachelor’s degree vice president, said, “Larry and in civil engineering in 1961 from Jerri have demonstrated their VMI and commissioned into the love for VMI with the estabWetsel ’61 U.S. Army. He went on to attain lishment of this scholarship. the rank of first lieutenant and The Keydet Club is honored to have the Wetsel name added to a distinc- began his civilian career in the railroad tive list of VMI scholarship donors. We business. Wetsel worked 39 years for 2013-Issue 4

Norfolk Southern Railroad before retiring as assistant vice president-intermodal in 2000. His wife, Jerri, is a longtime resident of Virginia Beach, Virginia. Jerri has been involved in numerous successful business ventures, including real estate and salvage yards, and she currently owns mini-storage businesses. Jerri once worked under former Mayor of Norfolk Vince Thomas ’43 while with the Oil Heat Association. About the founding of the scholarship, Jerri said, “I have been greatly impressed by the young men and women attending VMI who I have had the pleasure to meet. I am fond of VMI and value the focus on honor that is so important to the future of our country.”

175

KEYDET CLUB Scott ’80 Honors Lifelong Friend: Armstead II ’81 Memorial Track Scholarship Endowed Eugene “Gene” Scott Jr. ’80 recently completed the endowment funding for a Keydet Club track scholarship in honor of his lifelong friend and teammate, Arthur James Armstead II ’81. Armstead, who died at the age of 45 in 2004, was known as “Squirrel” by his Brother Rats and track teammates. He matriculated from Bethel High School in Hampton, Virginia, and graduated from VMI with a bachelor’s degree in economics.

As a cadet, Armstead was a member of the Promaji Club for four years. During his second and first class years, he joined the Society of Young Economists and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Armstead lettered in VMI track all four years of his cadetship and served as a team tri-captain in his first class year.

Armstead excelled at the 60-yard dash, as well as sprinting the 200 meter, 400 meter and 500 meter dash.

His most noteworthy performances included:

• posting the second best team time in the indoor 400m in 1981 (50.5).

• running a leg on the 1980 state cham pionship outdoor mile relay team that also set a school record of 3:15.6.

• running a leg on the 1981 indoor state championship team in the 400m relay.

• finishing a 400m at 48.0 in spring 1980, the second best on the team.

• finishing a 60-yard dash at 6.1 (handheld) in the 1978-79 indoor season, which tied the VMI record.

Preference in the awarding of the grantin-aid from this scholarship will be given to a track athlete who (1) matriculates from the Tidewater area of Virginia, (2) is from Virginia and/or (3) is a sprinter.

“Arthur was like a brother to me,” noted Scott. “When we were young kids, he introduced me to running track, and then he followed me to VMI. Endowing this scholarship is the least I can do to memorialize my dear friend and help the track program and school we both loved.” Keydet Club

Scott ’80

Armstead ’81

CEO Greg Cavallaro ’84 said, “Endowing this scholarship is a very generous endeavor on behalf of Gene Scott ’80 and reinforces the spirit of VMI that binds so many of us together in life and death. It’s symbolic of Gene’s love for his dear friend and all that VMI meant to them both.”

To make a gift to this endowed scholarship in memory of Arthur Armstead ’81, please send your tax-deductible gift to the VMI Keydet Club at P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA, 24450.

Crumpler III ’07 Promoted to Senior Vice President J. Robert Crumpler III ’07 has been promoted to senior vice president of the VMI Keydet Club, effective July 1, 2013.

The promotion, announced by Keydet Club CEO Greg Cavallaro ’84, provides Crumpler with more operational engagement and oversight of the day-to-day activities within the organization. In his new role, Crumpler also works closely with the CEO and staff, implementing and executing new and creative strategies.

Fans of VMI athletics first came to know Crumpler as a four-year member of the VMI baseball team. In addition to starting for the team in his third-, second- and first-class years, he was a captain in 2006 and 2007. He finished his baseball career as VMI’s all-time leader in fielding percentage, put-outs and double plays turned. He also ranks in the top 10 in almost every offensive category, holding numerous single-game and single-season records.

In 2007, Crumpler was selected to the Big 176

South All-Conference team. He also was detailed post-game analysis that VMI elected Big South Player of the Week three fans across the globe enjoy reading on a times during his career and was named to regular basis.”

Cavallaro continued, “RobCollege Baseball Foundation’s ert’s professionalism and maNational Honor Roll. ture and engaging personality After graduating from VMI have made him a vital asset to with a bachelor’s degree in histhe Keydet Club. This is a great tory, Crumpler joined the VMI opportunity for him and our Admissions Office. In 2008, he organization. Placing Robert became the New Cadet Recruitin this position will help ensure ing coordinator for the VMI we are properly staffed and orAlumni Association. Crumpler ganized to meet VMI’s athletic came to the VMI Keydet Club fundraising needs, as we colin April 2010 as the assistant Crumpler ’07 laborate with the Foundation vice president of development and work through the demands of VMI’s and became vice president in 2011.

“Since joining the Keydet Club team, forthcoming fundraising campaign.

“The Keydet Club is fortunate to have Robert has been an energetic fundraiser, a tireless ambassador for VMI athletics a truly dynamic staff that complements and a devoted advocate of our cadet- one another. With Robert, Donnie Ross athletes,” said Cavallaro. “For example, ’74, “Coach” Doug Bartlett, Andrew he developed the VMI Gridiron Club, Deal ’12 and Jackie Flint, we are poised which engages fans of VMI football to continue to meet or exceed the funding and provides them with detailed infor- demands in support of VMI athletics,” mation about the program, as well as concluded Cavallaro.

VMI ALUMNI REVIEW

Looking for an Easy Way to Help Us in 2013?

The IRA rollover is a simple and easy way to help VMI. If you are 70½, you may roll over up to $100,000 from your IRA to charity without paying any federal income tax on your gift.

To make an IRA rollover gift, simply contact your custodian and request that an amount be transferred to us. Your gift could be $1,000, $10,000, $50,000 or even $100,000. Please contact Terrie Conrad to learn more about how an IRA rollover gift can help you and VMI! Terrie I. Conrad, CFRE Vice President-Planned Giving 540/464-7207 extension 238 tconrad@vmiaa.org