Alumni Review 2016 Issue 1

VMI

ALUMNI REVIEW 2016-Issue 1

176th Founders Day

Contents

Virginia Military Institute Alumni Review 2016-Issue 1

In This Issue . . .

This issue includes class notes and news items covering the time period of Aug. 15, 2015, to Nov. 1, 2015.

Features 4

In Memory: Gen. Sam S. Walker ’45

6

In Memory: Caroline D. Wortham ’12

7

Rogers ’67 Receives Foundation DSA

11

2015 Institute Society Dinner

13 Brown ’80 and McDew ’82 Take Charge of USTRANSCOM 14 Powell ’99: From Barracks to Battlefield

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17

Campaign Message from Donald Wilkinson ’61

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17

Not a Luxury, But a Necessity

18 Why Bergren ’08 Gives 20

First Fall Reunion

23

Second Fall Reunion

News and Updates 3

Our Alumni Serving

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Association/Chapter News

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Class Notes

158 Births, Marriages, Degrees 159 Provisional Appointments 160 Taps 166 Alumni News

Departments 2

President’s Letter

164 Association Directory 171 The Institute

191 2016-Issue 1

174 Keydet Athletics 178 The Foundation 181 The Keydet Club

Volume 92, No. 4

PUBLISHER The President of The VMI Alumni Association, Inc. Managing Editor: Jordan Moore Editorial Assistant: Elaine Wood ALUMNI REVIEW ONLINE www.vmialumi.org/alumnireview 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 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. MISSION OF THE VMI ALUMNI ASSOCIATION To organize the alumni and old cadets of VMI into one general body to keep alive the memories of Institute life and, by their united efforts, promote the general welfare of the Institute and the successful prosecution of its educational purposes.

VMI ALUMNI AGENCIES TELEPHONE NUMBERS The VMI Alumni Association: The VMI Foundation:

The VMI Keydet Club:

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

WEBSITE ADDRESSES Alumni Agencies: www.vmialumni.org VMI: www.vmi.edu ON OUR COVER Outside Front Cover: A frost-covered bench near the Parade Ground on a cold December morning.

Photo by Micalyn Miller.

Inside Front and Back Covers: Photos from the 2015 Founders Day parade by Micalyn Miller and Elaine Wood.

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A Message From the President Happy New Year from VMI! I trust your holidays were warm and wonderful. We have geared up and are well on our way to a great 2016 here at the Institute.

An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI celebrated one year since its launch during the Institute Society Dinner on Founders Day. Many alumni returned to attend the dinner, and coverage of the event and an update on the campaign can be found within the following pages. Also featured are photos from Founders Day and both fall reunions, which honored the Classes of 1970, 1980, 1990, 2000, 2005 and 2010, and for the first time, we welcomed back a one year reunion class, the Class of 2014.

Perrow ’96

This Review profiles two remarkable alumni who are no longer with us. Since the last issue, Gen. Sam S. Walker ’45, VMI’s 11th superintendent and a decorated 32-year veteran, died. During Walker’s time as superintendent, he made vast improvements to the academic program, as well as established the Merit Scholarship program and instituted faculty and staff awards. Caroline D. Wortham ’12, star track and field athlete, is also remembered in this issue. Wortham was heavily involved in charitable activities during her cadetship and after graduation. Both alumni were well respected and admired members of their community and of the VMI family. Their obituaries appear in the front section of this issue of the Review.

Some other articles of interest on the following pages are: •

Coverage of Founders Day events, including an interview with James E. Rogers ’67, who received the Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award during Founders Day convocation. His speech and a copy of the citation presented to him are also included within this issue.

•

An article titled, “Brown ’80 and McDew ’82 Take Charge of USTRANSCOM,” highlights U.S. Navy Vice Adm. William “Andy” Brown ’80 and U.S. Air Force Gen. Darren McDew ’82, who briefly served together as the two lead positions of the U.S. Transportation Command in 2015.

•

From Sonny Craven, former VMI director of communications and marketing, comes an informative Q&A with Conor Powell ’99, who currently works as a foreign correspondent for the Fox News Channel.

•

“Not a Luxury, But A Necessity” by Col. James. E. Turner Sr. ’65, Department of Biology head, explains the critical need of private funds for academics by showcasing the wonderful opportunities cadets have experienced through research made possible entirely by this private support.

•

The Institute section highlights upcoming events hosted by the Center for Leadership and Ethics, as well as the placement of a new portrait of Col. Robert “Doc” Carroll in Carroll Hall, painted by Dr. James Reed ’59.

•

The Foundation section features an article celebrating the successes of the reunion campaigns for the Classes of 1990 and 2005, as well as an article titled, “VMI Calling,” which highlights the efforts of the cadets who work for the VMI Call Center.

•

The Keydet Club section recognizes this year’s winner of the Three-Legged Stool, Cadet David Geary ’16, and provides coverage of the 2015 Scholarship Awards Banquet. Additionally, there is an article recognizing the 2015 Spirit of VMI Award recipient, Don Heslep ’56.

As we barrel into this new year, please take a moment to reflect on your time at the Institute. Have you kept in contact with your BRs as much as you planned? Are you coming back to post as often as you would like? If the answer to either of those questions is no, make it your resolution this year to change that! Call up a brother rat and see where life has taken him or her, and come back to post for a basketball game and see all of the progress being made on the Corps Physical Training Facility right across the street from Cameron Hall. You will not regret renewing your bond to the Institute.

Yours in the spirit,

E.J. Turner Perrow Jr. ’96, President The VMI Alumni Association, Inc.

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Vmi Alumni Review

From left, U.S. Marine Corps Capts. Brandon A. Griffith ’11, Justin K. Kunert ’08, and Bryan M. Yerger ’06 and U.S. Marine Corps Maj. Christopher P. McGuire ’99 were deployed to Kuwait in support of Operation Inherent Resolve with Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis ResponseCentral Command.

In Camp Taji, Iraq, were, from left, 2nd Lt. Zach Stark ’14, 1st Lt. Lowell Patterson ’10, 1st Lt. Patrick Sasai ’13, 1st Lt. Robert Dilley ’13 and Capt. Jonathan Roland ’08.

Our Alumni Serving Recognizing Those Who Serve Others in Their Communities, Country and the World The Alumni Association would like to pay tribute to our citizensoliders, 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 every time of deepest peril ... .”

Those alumni whose photos and articles appear in this section of the Review could be members of the armed forces serving anywhere in the world, or they could be members of police and fire departments, doctors offering their services to those less fortunate, alumni volunteering at food pantries or serving as Boy or Girl Scout leaders.

If you or someone you know is serving others, please submit a high resolution photo (3 or 4 megapixels, minimum) taken at the location you are serving or with the people whom you serve.

Along with the photo, please submit a caption that explains what your service is, where you perform it and for whom. Send these to the VMI Alumni Review staff at review@vmiaa.org or by mail to VMI Alumni Review, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA 24450, Attention: Editor. We will review your submission and consider it for publication.

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

See know instructions above. description of what you’re doing, where and for whom. See instructions above.

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In Memory: Gen. Sam S. Walker ’45

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

Walker ’45 Retired U.S. Army Gen. Sam Sims Walker ’45, who served as VMI’s 11th superintendent from July 1981 to December 1988, died Aug. 8, 2015, in Pinehurst, North Carolina. He was 90 years old.

He was born July 31, 1925, in West Point, New York, where his father, Walton Harris Walker – who would become a hero of both World War II and Korea – was stationed.

Although he was an Army “brat” and was born in New York, Walker spent much of his childhood in his father’s hometown of Belton, Texas, and identified himself as a Texan throughout his life.

Walker entered VMI in September 1941 at the age of 16. Described by Vic Bray ’45, one of his 4th Class year roommates, as “mature beyond his years,” Walker played rat football and participated on the rat wrestling team.

He also was something of a prankster, which caused him and his roommates, in Bray’s words, “to improve our physical condition by walking numerous penalty tours.”

In 1943, Walker accepted an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy, following the example of his father who matriculated at VMI with the Class of 1909 and left for West Point after his 4th Class year. At West Point, Walker

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excelled academically, commanded a regiment within the corps of cadets and was a two-time All-American in lacrosse. Graduating in 1946, he was commissioned as an infantry officer and assigned to the 11th Airborne Division then on occupation duty in Japan.

In August 1950, Walker became commander of Company A, 19th Infantry Regiment. In heavy fighting around Sonju, Korea, Sept. 23, he gallantly led his company directly from a 20-mile forced march into a successful assault against an entrenched enemy force. For “[h]is fearless example ... courageous actions, devotion to duty and exemplary leadership” that day, he received the Silver Star.

In late December 1950, while commanding the Eighth Army, Walker’s father was killed in a traffic accident. Douglas MacArthur, general of the Army, ordered Walker to escort his father’s body to the United States for burial.

Afterward, Walker held numerous staff positions and attended the Command and General Staff College. In 1959, he returned to West Point for three years, and from August 1962 to August 1963, he was on the staff of the United Nations Command-U.S. Forces Korea. After graduating from the National War College in 1964, he commanded the 1st Battalion, 30th Infantry Regiment of the 3rd Infantry Division (Mechanized) in Germany.

In January 1966, he began a yearlong tour in Vietnam, initially as the executive officer of the 3rd Brigade, 1st Infantry Division. He took command of the division’s 2nd Brigade in July.

On Nov. 4, while his unit was participating in a major battle northwest of Saigon, Walker’s leadership was instrumental in a beleaguered battalion’s successful defense against the enemy.

Citing his “mastering of the situation ... stoic intrepidity,” as well as his “unquestionable valor in close combat against superior hostile forces,” the Army awarded him the Silver Star.

After his Vietnam service, Walker attended Harvard’s Advanced Management Program, was assigned to the office of Army vice chief of staff and was an Army fellow on the Council of Foreign Relations. In July 1969, he was promoted to brigadier general and became the assistant division commander of the 82nd Airborne Division. Starting in fall 1969, he served three years as the commandant of cadets at West Point. From September 1972 to June 1974, Walker commanded the 3rd

Infantry Division (Mechanized) in Germany, after which he was U.S. commander, Berlin, until August 1975.

In July 1977, while serving as the deputy commanding general of U.S. Army Forces Command, he was promoted to general at age 51, making him the youngest four-star general in Army history. He was appointed as commanding general, Allied Land Forces Southeast, headquartered in Turkey. In 1978, he retired from the Army after 32 years of service.

Walker’s other decorations include the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Distinguished Service Medal, three awards of the Legion of Merit, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Bronze Star and numerous awards of the Air Medal.

In making the announcement of VMI’s decision to name Walker as superintendent in 1981, Vincent J. Thomas ’43, president of the VMI Board of Visitors, said, “General Walker will bring to VMI the qualities of leadership and vision that are needed in the years ahead, and we are confident that he will continue to give the Institute the outstanding direction that has characterized previous administrations.”

Under Walker, many improvements were made to the Institute’s academic program.

Two new majors – mechanical engineering and computer science – were established, and three majors were expanded: For example, economics to economics and business. VMI also initiated an exchange program with the Royal Military College of Science and joined the Virginia Program at Oxford. He established the Merit Scholarship program and initiated faculty and staff awards. He strengthened VMI’s admissions efforts, which resulted in the Institute regaining the status as a selective school, which, in turn, bettered its academic reputation.

Many of these improvements were in the planning stage when Walker took office. He and his brother rat, James M. Morgan Jr. ’45, dean of the faculty and longtime faculty member and administrator, boosted the Institute’s efforts on these issues, and, after Walker selected John W. Knapp ’54 as Morgan’s successor, the improvements continued. When Knapp became superintendent in 1989, he credited Walker’s leadership as a key ingredient in the progress of these initiatives.

Walker began efforts to adjust the Rat System in order to rid it of abuses which had crept in

Vmi Alumni Review

Gen. Sam S. Walker ’45, right, accepted the Silver Shako following VMI’s win over The Citadel in 1987. With him is Maj. Gen. James A. Grimsley Jr., then-president of The Citadel. Photo previously appeared in the Fall 1988 Alumni Review. over time. Colonel Edwin L. Dooley (Hon.), who was the assistant to the superintendent and secretary to the Board of Visitors during Walker’s tenure, described it as “a heated issue,” and it often put him at odds with cadets and younger alumni. Older alumni, however, were supportive of his efforts.

He oversaw the refurbishment of Crozet Hall and the installation of new furniture in barracks. A new eight-lane outdoor track was installed; Clarkson-McKenna Hall, a new dressing room and office complex for football, was constructed; and a new football practice field was built. Cormack Field House was renovated, and renovations on Preston Library commenced. Another major project was the construction of the New Science Building (today’s Maury-Brooke Hall), a project which included the preservation of the historic Pendleton-Coles House. He and Mrs. Walker also were responsible for a post-wide landscaping project.

An enthusiastic supporter of VMI athletics, Walker was devoted to its improvement.

Among his many accomplishments was the establishment of lacrosse as a NCAA sport.

Doug Bartlett, the coach of VMI lacrosse from 1985-2006, described the Walkers as “avid fans and strong supporters” of the team. “The first game between VMI and Washington and Lee was played on an intensely cold day, and I didn’t expect many fans to come out. I’ll never forget seeing General and Mrs. Walker in the stands, bundled up and ready to cheer on the team. I have the utmost respect for General Walker,” Bartlett continued. “He believed in

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me, and that meant the world to me.”

In its resolution honoring him upon his retirement, the Board of Visitors praised Walker for his “careful, discerning and judicious exercise of the powers of this distinguished office” and described him as “[a] tireless proponent of academic excellence and the citizen-soldier concept [who] has faithfully guided the Institute in the achievement of its special mission.”

General J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, who attended Walker’s memorial

service at West Point in October, said of his predecessor, “The Institute will miss General Walker. He was a soldier born and steeped in Army history and tradition, yet flexible and thoughtful in leading VMI to the future. I always looked forward to General and Mrs. Walker’s return visits to VMI and our discussions ... reminiscing ... while updating them on activities today. I greatly appreciated his forthright actions as superintendent and his encouragement over many years before and during my time on post. He was one of the Institute’s and our nation’s very best.”

After they departed from VMI, the Walkers moved to Pinehurst, North Carolina. He served on the boards of the U.S.-Korea Foundation, the Council on U.S.-Korea Security Studies, the National D-Day Museum and the American Friends of Turkey. In 2005, the Association of Graduates of the U.S. Military Academy presented him with its Distinguished Graduate Award.

True to his Texas roots, he established the General Sam S. Walker 1945 Scholarship, which provides additional financial assistance to cadets holding Army ROTC scholarships.

The first preference in award is to cadets from Walker County, Texas, and the second is for cadets from any other part of Texas.

He is survived by his wife of 67 years, Charlotte (née Behrenberg), who he met and married while in Japan in the late 1940s; as well as two sons, six grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. A daughter, Sally, predeceased him.

Walker received the gift of a saber from Darren W. McDew ’82, first captain, on behalf of the Corps of Cadets. The Hon. Vincent J. Thomas ’43, president of the VMI Board of Visitors, looks on. Photo by Matthew W. Paxton Jr., editor and publisher of the News-Gazette. Photo previously appeared in the Spring 1982 Alumni Review.

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In Memory: Caroline D. Wortham ’12

by Elaine Wood, Editorial Assistant Caroline Dawn “Carrie” Wortham ’12 was an extraordinary student and athlete even before matriculating at VMI in 2008. She attended St. Catherine’s School in Richmond, Virginia, and continued her academic and athletic success at the Institute as a distinguished biology major.

She was tremendously involved in the VMI and local communities during her cadetship, joining a total of seven honor societies and becoming the president of the VMI chapter of the national biology honor society, Beta Beta Beta.

During her cadetship, Wortham was also immersed in an extensive undergraduate research project under the associate professor of biology, Lt. Col. Emily Lilly. This project extended through multiple summers and resulted in Wortham earning co-author status on a scientific publication, a tremendous feat and opportunity for someone so young. Many professors Wortham studied under recalled her hard work ethic. Colonel James Turner ’64, biology department head, stated, “Carrie serves as the ultimate role model for all our majors, and her legacy will continue to be embraced by all current and future cadets.”

Wortham was also a valued team member on both the cross-country and track and field teams. Darrin Webb, VMI’s director of track and field/cross-country, remarked, “It was a true pleasure to not only get to coach Carrie but to know her as a person. She brought out the best in everyone – both as cadets and individuals.” Wortham was most notably recognized athletically for her expertise in the pole vault.

She earned the VMI monogram several times.

Her leadership capabilities were also numerous, including serving as captain of women’s track and field during her 1st Class year, as well as earning the role of regimental S-2 captain, a significant role in the Corps of Cadets.

Her academic achievements didn’t go unnoticed, as Wortham became the 2011-12 Academic AllDistrict honoree. She was also named the 2011-12 Big South Woman of the Year, an honor only given to those who exceed both academic and athletic expectations. This was achieved in large part due to her outstanding involvement in starting VMI’s first international service program, Engineers Without Borders, and serving as its president during her 2nd Class year. Engineers Without Borders allowed Wortham to partner alongside Washington and Lee University students to support a mission of improving the lives of those in developing countries through the education of better health and proper sanitation. Lietuenant Col. Tim Moore ’97, Engineers Without Borders

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Carrie Wortham ’12 after receiving her diploma on graduation day May 2012. faculty adviser, proudly remembered her service and stated, “Carrie deeply believed in the mission of the program and, therefore, helped to engrain its principles within the fabric of the VMI educational experience. Her tireless efforts helped us to develop multiple projects in Bolivia and Haiti. She was a true leader who helped make the program what it is today.”

It can be reasoned that the trait of helping others was inherent to Wortham and was pursued whole-heartedly post-graduation. Midwives for Haiti, an organization those close to Wortham instantly connect her legacy with, is a nonprofit organization based in Richmond that pursues the tough mission of teaching Haitian women to become midwives. Wortham’s work with the people of Haiti began during her 2011 spring furlough.

Wortham joined her father, Dr. Edwin Wortham V, a pediatric eye surgeon, and two other cadets in traveling to an orphanage in Hinche, in Haiti’s Central Plateau. The orphanage provided yearround shelter as well as schooling and meals for more than 130 children. While there, the cadets allowed the faculty and staff of the orphanage to have their vision tested as well as traveled to surrounding villages to work with children. After her cadetship, Wortham also joined Impact Makers, a Richmond-based management and technology consulting company that focuses on providing services to various clients and donating profits to charitable activities in the immediate area as well as the Hartford, Connecticut, area.

The Class of 2012 and members of the VMI family returned the compassion for Wortham in an outpouring of support at her memorial service held in Midlothian, Virginia, Sept. 11. When questioned about Wortham, Bruce Howard, Class of 2012 class agent, stated, “She was the type of person who had a way of bringing us all together. If you spent any time with her, she made you want to be the best version of yourself possible.” Samantha Jones ’12, one of Wortham’s closest friends during their time at the Institute and beyond, mirrored similar sentiments, stating, “In the summer of 2008 at VMI when I met Carrie, I gained not only a lifelong friend but a sister. When reflecting on Carrie and how she approached relationships and her life, there is one word that constantly comes to mind: ‘intentional.’” Jones continued, “She was a young woman of great wisdom – perhaps beyond what most of us expect from a 20-something year old. She listened before she spoke and hated wasting time. She lived with such joy and consideration for others and sought to do the will of God above anything else ... In death as she did in life, she continues to challenge us all to live life selflessly and full of great intention.”

Wortham died Sept. 5, 2015, when the bicycle she was riding was tragically struck by an automobile. She was 26.

She is survived by her father, Edwin Wortham V; step-mother, Cynthia Wortham; mother, Tamara Gill; step-father, Harry Gill; grandparents; and siblings.

Vmi Alumni Review

James E. Rogers ’67 Receives Distinguished Service Award On Nov. 11, 2015, Hugh M. Fain III ’80, president of the VMI Foundation, presented James E. Rogers ’67 with the VMI Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award during the Founders Day convocation. First presented in 1969, the award recognizes those whose dedication to the Institute and the VMI Foundation is exceptionally commendable.

The VMI Foundation chose Rogers to receive this honor in recognition of his exemplary service to VMI from 1997, when he became a Foundation trustee, to the present. According to the award citation, he “has made innumerable contributions to the advancement of Virginia Military Institute and provided an example of dedication to the Institute for the entire VMI family.”

VMI Foundation Distinguished Service Award Nov. 11, 2015 Remarks by James E. Rogers ’67 Mr. Ramsey; Gen. Peay; Mrs. Peay, VMI’s first lady; members of the Class of 1967, thanks for that great event last night; ladies and gentlemen of the Corps of Cadets; family and friends: First, I’d like to recognize three former recipients of the DSA who have had a major influence on my involvement as an alumnus: Mr. Gil Minor, VMI Class of ’63, who I had the honor of following as president of the Foundation 15 years ago.

Mr. Tom Slater, Class of ’66 – of which there are a number here today planning for their 50th Reunion Campaign. I understand you are working to break the record for a 50th Reunion Campaign total. You guys have always been a

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tough act to follow. We will do our best to beat whatever total you raise.

And, the third person is Mr. Stan Navas, VMI Class of ’41. He, along with his son, Stan Jr., my brother rat, is the reason I came to VMI. “Big Stan,” as we called him growing up, was president of his class, president of the Honor Court and a decorated veteran of World War II. Big Stan lost an arm during the invasion at Anzio. Before he allowed himself to be taken off the battlefield, he made the medics retrieve his severed limb because his VMI ring was still on its hand. Big Stan was a tough guy.

I am especially excited to have my family here today, and I have a little story about each of them as it relates to VMI. My mother, who is no longer with us, was very proud that I went to VMI. While at Thomas Jefferson High School in Richmond (where, by the way, Gen. Peay attended four years before me and was the starting quarterback on the football team), I applied to Hampden-Sydney, UVa and VMI and was accepted to all three, a feat that I am sure would not happen today.

Regarding Hampden-Sydney, I loved that bumper sticker that came out when women were finally being admitted to VMI that said: “Women at VMI – what next – men at Hampden-Sydney?”

So, Hampden-Sydney wasn’t the place, UVa was too big, and I had had enough partying in high school. So, I came to VMI. But, back to my mother, while she was dying 32 years ago with just a few days to live, she called me into her room, pulled me down to her bedside and whispered in a very faint voice,

“Jimmy, I am so proud that you went to VMI.” I said, “Yes, I know, Mom.” She continued, “But there is something else I must tell you; I dated a VMI cadet.”

I said, “Great, Mom. I didn’t know that.”

She paused for a moment and went on to say, “And, you need to know something else; I late dated a W&L student after Taps.” She seemed to rest much more comfortably after that confession and died peacefully 24 hours later.

My son, who is here with his wife, Katherine, and daughter, Alice, was exposed to VMI at an early age, though not extensively. No provisional appointment, a few football games and couple of parades. I was not one of those VMI grads who insisted my son attend VMI. I took the low-key approach.

So, when college application time came around, I stuck to it and simply asked Jay if he was working on his applications. He said he was.

In the fall of his senior year, I asked if he had mailed them in. He said he was working on it. A month later, I asked again. He replied, “Dad, I have only applied to one school, and the application has been mailed.” Awesome, I thought, my strategy worked!

A month later, when I couldn’t stand it anymore, “OK, son,” I asked, “where did you apply?” He said the University of Colorado. So much for the low-key approach.

My daughter, Catherine, is here with her husband, Michael, and their two children, Blair and Sam. Her story is one my mother would have appreciated.

One day, when she was in her late 20s, she got up the nerve to show me a photograph taken of

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her 10 years earlier while a student at St. Catherine’s School in Richmond and long before women came to VMI. In it, she is fully dressed in a VMI uniform standing in the courtyard of Old Barracks.

Not really wanting to know any details, I only asked one question, “How did you get in and out of barracks?”

“Hello? Dad, it was simple. Do you know about those windows on the backside of barracks?” Of course, referring to the same ones I probably used more than Jackson Arch.

My daughter, Margaret, who is here with her husband, Andy, and their daughter, Ella, has a different story. After graduating from the University of Vermont, she took a job in the marketing department of the juice company, Nantucket Nectars. This entailed driving a van towing a huge juice bottle across the country attending sporting events – especially on college campuses – and handing out free samples.

Well, at some point she ended up on the Parade Ground at VMI, without my knowledge, of course, until I got a call later that morning. She said she had the strangest thing happen. While jogging early that morning coming up behind the superintendent’s house with her earphones in and enjoying the serenity, she felt the ground shake – thought it was an earthquake – and then, all of a sudden, was engulfed by a company of rats with whom she continued jogging until the smell of sweat-soaked fatigues overwhelmed her. That’s as close as any of my kids ever came to being in the Rat Line.

But, there is one other family member who has been in the alumni Rat Line with me for the past 20 years, and that is my wonderful wife, Bootsie. In fact, the luckiest day of my life took place exactly 17 years ago today during Founders Day when, on the Parade Ground, Bootsie accepted an engagement ring from me. She has been by my side ever since. Thank you, Bootsie.

One more story. And this one is about me.

Two years ago, Gen. and Mrs. Peay invited Bootsie and me to be their personal guests at Ring Figure. I hadn’t been to Ring Figure since I was a cadet, and it sounded like fun. And we were also invited to stay in the supe’s quarters.

Now I don’t know about you, but I still get nervous every time I get close to the supe, and the thought of actually sleeping in his house was a little intimidating. But how do you say no to such an invitation?

We accepted, had a wonderful time at Ring Figure and, afterward, had a nightcap with Pam and Binnie before bedtime. The night was cold, but the room was comfortable, and we were OK. OK, that is, until the next morning, when I awoke at 5 a.m. and realized I had left my shaving

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kit in our car. So, I quietly slipped out the front door in order to retrieve it, making sure I didn’t wake up the supe in the process.

Well, no big deal, except I was barefoot, had only my boxer shorts on and it was about 10 degrees outside. Kind of like walking down the stoops to the sinks in December.

The mission was going well until the door locked behind me. So, here I am, wandering around in the supe’s front yard, basically with no clothes on. I can’t get back in the house, and I am sure not going to ring the doorbell. So I sneak around the side closest to barracks where our room was and knocked on the windows, hoping to wake up Bootsie. I am now watching for the post police, the OD and guard members, and I am hiding behind the bushes freezing my tail off.

So, I go back around to the front, still in the bushes, and I hear the front door opening. Thank God, Bootsie has come to my rescue.

The front door opens and out steps the superintendent, in full uniform, briefcase in hand, on the way to the office. I looked at him ... in his uniform. Binnie looked at me ... in my boxers.

His expression was priceless.

All I could think to say was, “Sir, just don’t ask any questions, and please do not lock that door behind you.”

That’s enough stories. Let me say to my brother rats of the Class of 1967, it is an honor to be associated with you. I especially salute those of you who served in Vietnam. We lost two brother rats there: Brent Bell ’67 and Larry Scalin ’67.

I am also respectful of Tom Slater’s remarks when he recognized the 11 members of the Class of ’66 who lost their lives in Vietnam.

When we went to VMI, everyone was required to commission into a branch of the armed services. I was one of the few in my class who did not.

You see, I broke my arm when in high school, and after it healed, it lacked full extension. This wasn’t identified as a problem until my physical exam for summer camp after our 2nd Class year, and the Army declared me physically not qualified.

While most all of my brother rats were commissioning and entering the service – many to Vietnam – I was not able to serve my country in uniform.

This has been one of the biggest disappointments in my life. As a physics major, I did, however, work as a research scientist after graduation as a civilian on nuclear reactors for the Navy. But, I can assure you, it wasn’t the same as serving in uniform.

Given the opportunity and if available, I encourage all cadets to take a commission. If you do not, you may regret it. If you do, I can assure you that you will not.

To the rats: You have taken no ordinary course

to a college education. Take pride in the fact that you are attending the toughest military college in the country. You will not regret it. I know you can’t see any light at the end of that dark tunnel you are in, but it will come – but only if you hang in there and stay the course.

To the 3rd Class: This is a challenging year for you, and in some ways, more challenging than your rat year. You are now in the academic rat line where, I am sorry to tell you, you will remain until the second semester of your 1st Class year.

But, you are beginning to experience the rewards of leadership. Take full advantage of that.

To the 2nd Class: Your Ring Figure is coming up in two weeks. Remember what I said about Stan Navas ’41 and how he had the medics go retrieve his arm in order to save his ring? Well, here it is on my hand.

Like Mr. Navas’, yours will be a symbol of unbreakable bond that you will have with your brother rats and the Institute. My advice to you is simple: During Ring Figure, have fun, stay out of trouble and, for God’s sake, don’t get caught in the superintendent’s bushes in only your underwear.

To the 1st Class: You are starting to see the light at the end of that tunnel. It will only get brighter.

Leave the Corps in better shape than when you arrived four years ago. If you still have an opportunity to take a commission, do it. If you are entering the civilian world, find a way to serve your country, your community and those less fortunate than yourselves.

To the faculty and staff: Your influence on our cadets is profound and will last a lifetime. The transformation that you bring about in them during four short years is nothing short of amazing.

Thank you for all that you do for these special young people.

To my fellow alumni and friends of VMI: I do not need to remind you that we are still in the middle of the Campaign for VMI. If you have already participated in this effort, I thank you. If you haven’t yet because you are not sure there is a good reason to do so, look to your left, look to your right and look behind you. There you will see 1,700 reasons why you should.

I will conclude my remarks with the words spoken by a former recipient of the DSA 31 years ago and the gentleman who wore this ring from the Class of ’41, Stan Navas. “The fierce, uncompromising loyalty to one’s brother rats and to one’s class evolves after graduation into a loyalty to the Institute. We will always be members of and loyal to our class, but upon graduation, we transfer this loyalty and love to the ‘body politic’ of all VMI graduates – cadets and alumni alike.”

In other words, “One Team. One Corps.”

Thank you very much. Go Keydets.

Vmi Alumni Review

An Interview with Distinguished Service Award Recipient James E. Rogers ’67

by Scott Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation On Nov. 11, 2015, James E. Rogers ’67 received the VMI Foundation’s Distinguished Service Award at the Founders Day Convocation in Cameron Hall. Soon after Founders Day, he answered some questions about the award, his decades of involvement with VMI and the importance of private support of VMI.

Q: What were your initial thoughts when you learned that you were to receive the Distinguished Service Award?

A: Immediately, I thought of all of those who had received this award previously; men like Jim Wheat, Stan Navas and Frank Louthan – all of the Class of 1941 – as well as Bruce Gottwald ’54 and Bill Berry ’54, for whom I once worked. What an honor it is to be walking in the footsteps of these great alumni.

What alumni learn about honor at VMI helps you clarify what is right and what is wrong.

I have been in more than a few situations in which I stepped back and asked myself, “How would this be handled at VMI?” And that helped me do the right thing.

Q: In a more general sense, how did VMI prepare you for your long and successful career in business?

A: VMI prepares you to manage time and set priorities. Even more importantly, it helps you recognize that all successful efforts require extensive teamwork. It also helps you recognize authority and be respectful of those who

have it. Thanks to the leadership opportunities available to cadets, you also learn the responsibilities of authority and how to exercise it in a respectful way.

Q: You have served the Institute for more than 20 years. Your service includes eight years on the VMI Board of Visitors and two as the president of the VMI Foundation. Why did you begin to serve and why have you kept doing so?

A: I must point to two alumni, G. Gilmer Minor III ’63 and Frank Louthan ’41. I got involved because of them and the example of service to VMI they set for alumni and friends.

Q: Did anyone have a special influence on your decision to attend VMI?

A: My decision to attend VMI was very heavily influenced by Stan Navas ’41 and his son, my childhood friend and eventual brother rat, Stan Navas Jr. ’67. “Big Stan” was admirable in every respect and credited his success to his VMI education. I was proud to wear his class ring when I received the DSA.

Q: You were a member of the Honor Court.

What did that experience teach you?

A: As a cadet, I was struck by how seriously cadets took any Honor Court activity and the priority they attached to honor. It made me appreciate the overall significance of the Honor Code and VMI’s single-sanction system.

There’s no “gray” in VMI’s Honor Code. In business, you are continually confronted by choices that don’t clearly seem black or white.

After the Founders Day parade, Rogers met with members of the regimental staff, including William R. Camp ’16, the regimental S-4 captain. VMI Photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

“I have been in more than a few situations in which I stepped back and asked myself, ‘How would this be handled at VMI?’ And that helped me do the right thing.”

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The reason why I continued to be involved is because it is quite satisfying to get involved with cadets and whatever benefits them.

Q: You’re now a leader in VMI’s current fundraising campaign. Why did you become involved with it at such a high level?

A: The reason I signed on to be the vice chairman of this campaign is very simple: Gen. Peay ’62 asked me to do it. It was utterly inconceivable to say, “No,” to someone who has been so devoted for so long to the Institute and its cadets.

Q: If a current cadet or an alumnus asked you why he or she should take on a volunteer role in the service of VMI, how would you respond?

A: I would first point out that VMI is a small school in an exceptionally competitive environment. If its alumni are not involved and not donating, it will not be successful.

Put more bluntly, VMI’s success is utterly dependent on strong alumni support.

I also would tell them that fixed costs are not determined by the size of the student body.

The Corps could be 1,000 strong or 2,000 strong, and it would still cost tens of millions of dollars a year just to keep VMI functioning.

Next, from a practical, budgetary standpoint, they need to know that private support is more important to VMI than it was just 20 years ago. When I became a Foundation trustee in the 1990s, state funding made up a third of VMI’s annual revenues. It’s just not realistic to think that that situation will be – or even can be – restored. The only way to ensure VMI’s success and lessen the burden of tuition and fees on cadets is to increase private giving – especially endowment giving.

Another point I’d make goes back to something I said earlier about being involved with cadets. There is nothing more rewarding or more fulfilling to watch cadets progress as students and as leaders and to know you were somehow involved in that process.

Distinguished Service Award Citation Presented to James E. Rogers ’67 WHEREAS, JAMES EDWARD ROGERS, who graduated from Virginia Military Institute with the Class of 1967 with a degree in physics and was a cadet-athlete and a member of the Honor Court; and WHEREAS, MR. ROGERS received a Master of Science degree in nuclear engineering from the University of Virginia in 1969; and WHEREAS, in 1971, he embarked on a successful career in business and finance throughout which he established new companies, revamped existing ones, and encouraged the development of new and innovative businesses; and WHEREAS, throughout his more than four decades in business, MR. ROGERS has had a reputation for strong leadership, sound business acumen, and, most important, unquestionable integrity; WHEREAS, he has provided countless hours of service to numerous civic, educational, and charitable organizations; and WHEREAS, in 1997, MR. ROGERS began his service to the Institute by joining the Board of Trustees of the VMI Foundation; and WHEREAS, he served as a trustee of the

Foundation for seven years and was the president of the VMI Foundation from 2000 to 2002; and WHEREAS, MR. ROGERS was a member of the Executive Committee of VMI’s comprehensive fundraising campaign, Reveille: A Call to Excel, from 1998 to 2004; and WHEREAS, MR. ROGERS became a member of the VMI Board of Visitors in 2004 and, during his eight years of membership, was a vice president from 2007 to 2012; and WHEREAS, he continues to serve the Institute as a vice chairman of An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI and as a member of the Jackson-Hope Fund’s Board of Overseers; and WHEREAS, through this service, he has made innumerable contributions to the advancement of Virginia Military Institute and provided an example of dedication to the Institute for the entire VMI family; THEREFORE, the Board of Trustees of the VMI Foundation recognizes this exemplary record of dedicated service to Virginia Military Institute and the VMI Foundation by presenting its highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, to JAMES EDWARD ROGERS.

Q: If I haven’t covered a point that you think is important, you have the last word.

A: Alumni and friends must never forget the Institute’s importance to this country. The impact that our alumni have had on it is astounding when you consider VMI’s relatively small size. If we want future alumni to make the same kind of contributions to the United States as they have in the past, we must keep every aspect of the VMI education strong.

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Rogers, left, received the Distinguished Service Award from Hugh M. Fain III ’80, VMI Foundation president. VMI photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

Vmi Alumni Review

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2015 Institute Society Dinner

by Scott Belliveau ’83, Director of Communications, VMI Foundation As it has since 1974, on the evening of Nov. 11, 2015, the VMI Foundation hosted the Institute Society Dinner in the Hall of Valor in the Institute’s Marshall Hall.

This event primarily recognizes alumni and friends who give unrestricted support to VMI through their annual gifts to the Foundation Fund.

After dinner, Hugh M. Fain III ’80, VMI Foundation president, thanked the guests for their support toward VMI. “You have all taken a stand for VMI with your generosity. With your support, you have demonstrated to cadets that their education is important, you supported faculty innovation with more resources, and you gave the athletics program the funds it needs to attract cadet-athletes and coaches who honor the proud traditions of VMI.” He noted that the VMI Foundation and VMI Keydet Club received a record amount of gifts and commitments in Fiscal Year 2015: $56.2 million, of which an astounding $32 million was in cash. He also recognized the three classes, including the Class of 1965, which conducted successful Reunion Campaigns in FY 2015, raising a grand total of $14.6 million.

General J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, also spoke, acknowledging the society’s support and updated the guests on the progress of An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI – $239 million from 13,279 alumni and friends. He also showed the power of private giving to VMI by bringing to the stage three cadets – Derrick Ziglar ’15, Mackenzie Harrmann ’16 and Tyler Lighton ’15 – and two faculty members – Col. James Turner Sr. ’65 and Lt. Col. Tim Moore ’97 – who stood as Peay explained how each had benefited from the generosity of alumni and friends.

“It was another great event,” said Brian Scott Crockett, chief executive officer of the VMI Foundation, “that allowed the VMI Foundation to express its gratitude to these loyal and generous men and women and show them the transformative effect that their generosity – and that of other alumni and friends – has on the work of our faculty and the lives of our cadets.”

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1. Cadet pipers and drummers provided a musical greeting.

2. The Hall of Valor was close to capacity with 583 people in attendance.

3. The Color Guard and VMI Herald Trumpets opened the event with the posting of the Colors and the playing of the national anthem.

4. From left, Donna Duncan, Gene Scott ’80, Floyd Duncan ’64 and Zymora Scott.

5. Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, announced the campaign’s progress to date: $239 million in gifts and commitments.

6. Bob Reitz ’61, Larry Wetsel ’61 and Ed Heuer.

7. Tyler Lighton ’15 greeted S. Read Hanmer ’55 and his wife, Lois.

8. Brian Scott Crockett, chief executive officer of the VMI Foundation, welcomed the guests.

9. Doug Warner ’03, right, and his wife, Sarah.

10. Two living examples of private giving’s importance to VMI presented

by Peay were Derrick Ziglar ’15, left, and Mackenzie Harrmann ’16.

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11. Scott Campbell ’04, right, and his wife, Misia Zygolewski.

12. Christian Larlee ’90, right, and Kathy Davis.

13. Virginia’s Lt. Gov. Ralph Northam ’81, left, spoke with Thomas Slater Jr. ’66, center, and Richard Goodall ’66.

14. Grover Outland ’81, left, spoke with Cadet James Latta ’16.

15. Hugh M. Fain III ’80, president of the VMI Foundation, expressed his thanks for the guests’ generous support of the Institute.

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16. The Class of 1960 was well represented by, from left, Theresa and Bolling Williamson, Ruth and Jimbo Smith, Henry and Linda Brown, Sewell and Roy McLeod, and Janet and Bill Elliott. VMI photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

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Vmi Alumni Review

Brown ’80 and McDew ’82 Take Charge of USTRANSCOM

by Elaine Wood, Editorial Assistant

U.S. Navy Vice Adm. William “Andy” Brown ’80, left, and U.S. Air Force Gen. Darren W. McDew ’82.

It is not unlikely for VMI alumni to end up working together in the military; however, for the first time, the two lead positions of the U.S. Transportation Command were occupied by two of the Institute’s own. On Aug. 26, 2015, U.S. Air Force Gen. Darren W. McDew ’82 assumed the position of commander of the USTRANSCOM. In this position, McDew reports directly to the secretary of defense, who in turn directly reports to the president. For about a month’s time, McDew’s leadership overlapped with U.S. Navy Vice Adm. William “Andy” Brown ’80, who was completing his term as deputy to the commander.

On its website, USTRANSCOM is listed as “a unified, functional combatant command which provides support to the eight other U.S. combatant commands, the military services, defense agencies and other government organizations.”

Brown identified that providing global mobility simply means, “We take people to the fight, and we bring them home,” whether by air lift, sea lift or other means.

Brown stated that the responsibility given to him by his superiors over his entire military career – including his accomplishment of earning three stars as an admiral – is not only humbling but one of the more surprising elements of his work. McDew echoed similar sentiments about his own military career within the Air Force, stating, “There’s no way in the world that I could have ever dreamed of many of the positions and opportunities that I’ve been given – going all the way back to VMI.” Although maybe

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unexpected to the both of them, it does not seem so surprising when you look at the values they both believe were instilled in them during their time at the Institute. Brown explained that being a part of the Corps of Cadets taught him “to treat everyone equally, that there is worth in everybody ... and you never throw someone aside.” Understanding that it is the long run that matters instead of short term gratification is another lesson VMI taught him. Being a part of the Corps of Cadets was also a foundational learning experience for McDew, as during his cadetship, he served as regimental commander and first captain of the Corps, a position earned and granted to McDew by his superiors. “It was an honor of my life that I will never forget. To get a chance to lead your peers – which is what I consider one of the toughest leadership positions you will ever have – at an institution like VMI ... it’s an opportunity for you to have a leadership position where you have to convince your classmates that they can trust you, that they should believe in you and that they should follow you.”

As both Brown and McDew are responsible for the safety and care of so many military men and women, it is clear they fully understand the leadership skills they gained at VMI and how their time at the Institute helped them get to where they are today. For Brown, his desire to join the military stemmed from his father’s time in the Navy, who retired around the time Brown was deciding what he wanted to do in life. Brown also explained that the Navy ROTC program at VMI was very strong during his cadetship.

He believes the program is just as strong today as both of his sons, Class of 2006 and Class of 2009, found the NROTC program supportive in helping them pursue their military careers.

Brown explained that reaching out to ROTC instructors is vital and important for cadets who wish to pursue a commission. He greatly supports an increase in the percentage of VMI graduates who commission, because “the choice to serve in the military is a good one,” and one he believes will give cadets expansive career options.

McDew indicated the most enjoyable part of his career is “without a question, the people.

At every juncture, my wife and I and our kids have enjoyed meeting the people who choose to dedicate their lives serving other people. It has just been a wonderful journey getting to know them and their families and sharing in their

successes, their joys and, unfortunately, being there for some of them as they go through sorrow, as well.”

Cohesively, the two men adhere to their passion for the diverse familial unit that the military emulates, which they no doubt experienced in the Corps of Cadets – being submerged into a brotherhood that has clearly extended past the walls of barracks.

Although VMI was a tough milestone to conquer, Brown stated, “I’m probably more proud today than I was the day after I graduated,” and noted he finds it gratifying to see how much the Institute continues to progress. He acknowledged the friendships gained and the VMI family he has inherited as the most valuable aspects of being a graduate of the Institute.

“You know, the longer you’re away from [the Institute], the memories become more and more fond. You forget the hardships, and you now appreciate more the journey and the people you traveled with,” said McDew. He continued, “I told somebody recently that I had never run 3 miles in my life. VMI got me to run 3 miles ... with a rifle and boots. I never thought I could run 3 miles. Carrying a rifle and in boots. And then I realized I could run as far as I need to run. That’s what VMI did for me.”

It is apparent that both men know that great things are in store for USTRANSCOM and find excitement in their roles of responsibility. Brown expressed enthusiasm for McDew taking command of USTRANSCOM, noting that he is “really proud” of McDew for earning this role. Brown explained, “... Even in his start as commander of the Corps at VMI, McDew has always been deserving of this kind of authority.” McDew, humbled by the admiration, stated that he is thrilled about learning how he can help others in this role. “With every command, your opportunity is to add value to an enterprise ... I know in my heart that there is a place that I will particularly add value, and I’ve got to figure out where that is.”

Although both hold serious responsibility, their sense of humor in regard to VMI is unwavering. McDew was quick to point out that he “did pushups on [Brown’s] behalf ” as a cadet. Brown, fully knowing that McDew holds charge over him, rivaled, “I just want to make sure that I prove [to McDew] that the Class of ’80 is still better than the Class of ’82.”

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Powell ’99: From Barracks to Battlefield A Journey from Cadet to National News Correspondent

by Sonny Craven, Contributing Writer At nearly 1 a.m. in Jerusalem, following a hectic day, Conor Powell ’99 is still at work as he readies himself to report the latest news to nearly 2 million viewers and listeners around the world tuned to the Fox News Channel evening news show, “Special Report with Bret Baier” at 6 p.m. Eastern Standard Time. No longer does Fox depend on a rented satellite “window” of time to transmit his report back to Washington. Everything is sent now via a high-speed Internet link.

Powell’s assignment doesn’t comprise the usual office. It’s located in the Middle East, one of the most volatile regions of the world. His day begins early, reviewing producer notes and gathering wire-service news for events and issues that will shape news. Fox News-New York and the Fox News Washington Bureau have provided requests for live shots and pitched their ideas.

This is negotiated back and forth with Powell and his producers on local or regional news they see emerging and begins to take shape each weekday by 2 p.m. The timed-down news script and anchor introductions are written, and any live-to-tape that will form that night’s evening news-package was ready by about 4 p.m.

The Fox News bureau in Jerusalem has been unusually busy recently covering news from the Middle East. The contentious relationship between the U.S. administration and Benjamin Netanyahu, Israeli prime minister, his speech before the U.S. Congress, and his tough re-election efforts were news pegs that had to be balanced against news of deteriorating conditions in Yemen as rebels seized Sana’a, the capitol. These are among frontline stories Powell has monitored and reported on as Middle East foreign correspondent for the Fox News channel. On any given day, Powell’s reports can be seen on the Fox News lineup of news and analysis shows.

It’s right where he wants to be. He has prepared himself for this day, this role. His international studies professor, Col. Jim Hentz, would be proud to know he helped prepare Powell in his career.

Born and raised in Arlington, Virginia, Powell and one other sibling, his sister, are part of a small but close family. His mother was superintendent of catholic schools, and his dad was a lawyer. He stated he did not grow up wanting to be any one thing, but he did grow up knowing he wanted

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to travel. His grandparents lived in India in the 1960-70s, and they traveled a lot. He grew up listening to stories of their time in Asia and the Middle East. Growing up outside Washington, D.C., he was raised with an interest in politics and foreign policy. In a way, he believes journalism combines his interests.

In 1995, he matriculated at VMI and graduated in May 1999 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies with a minor in history.

After graduation, he began a series of jobs that were educational and interesting, but he yearned for something more. He felt he was a good writer and had an interest in storytelling. Journalism intrigued him. He began to explore the possibility of a new career, despite the fact he lacked a J-school background, as university journalism programs are called. He had no broadcasting experience, voice coaching or on-air training as a reporter, but he had something they didn’t.

He knew he had been prepared for life, and he could do things by working hard and seeking the path least traveled. It was part of what he learned at VMI. He knew most J-school graduates aspire to top 50 television markets. Television station managers in the bottom market tier constantly search for “talent” but can only promise lots of work and

low pay. Often, they must take chances with walkins who show a passion for news, an ability to show up on time, and a willingness to work hard and selflessly. An enthusiastic attitude also goes a long way. That described Powell at the time.

In 2006, Powell got his first break working as general assignment reporter for a Yakima, Washington, station, ranked by Nielsen as the 122 market out of about 210 TV markets. At that station, he did everything, ultimately proving himself worthy to gather news as an on-air reporter. From there, he landed a job as a community political reporter at News Channel 8 in Washington, D.C., an eighth-ranked market station. The experience and exposure eventually led to an opportunity to join Fox News as a foreign correspondent in Afghanistan.

His other childhood dream of traveling to exciting places has come true. He’s lived in Afghanistan (2009-13) with lots of trips to Pakistan and Israel during that time. He covered Libya in March and April 2011. From 2013 to the present, he’s lived in Israel, but he began traveling in and out of Israel in May 2010 on assignments that took him to Amman, Jordan, and Cairo, Egypt.

He is married to his wife, Atia, who is also a journalist, but has added author and mother to her list of titles. They met when she was the CNN correspondent in Kabul. Atia later moved over to work for NBC around the world. In September 2014, Penguin books released her first book, “The Secret Sky,” a young adult novel about Afghanistan. In January 2015, she gave birth to their first son, Arian Powell. Like his parents, he already has two passports for traveling.

In 2005, Powell returned to post with about 40 other alumni to attend a young graduates’ event in Lejeune Hall. The alumni present had been invited back to talk about VMI and its future.

Sonny Craven, then-director of communications and marketing, met Powell at the event and spoke about his interest in pursuing a broadcasting career. The two corresponded over the years, and recently, as time permitted, they spent time talking about Powell’s personal journey since his graduation. Here is what he told Craven.

Q: What do you report on for Fox News?

Powell ’99

A: I am currently based in Jerusalem for Fox Vmi Alumni Review

News. This is our Middle East bureau, so we are responsible for covering the entire Middle East. These days, our main focus is on ISIS and the chaos in Iraq and Syria. Obviously the continuing problems here in the Holy Land are also big stories.

Q: How did your interest in attending VMI come about?

A: Jim Peay ’98 was one of my closest friends in high school. He convinced me to apply to VMI, even though I had no real interest in going there. I wanted to go to college to play baseball and had several opportunities to play Division II or Division III baseball. But I hurt my shoulder my senior year in high school, and while it didn’t ruin my baseball career, it made me re-evaluate my college choices. Ultimately, I decided if my parents were going to pay for my college education, I shouldn’t waste it on trying to play baseball. Honestly, my choice to go to VMI was all about testing myself. I decided VMI was a place where I could do something more than just “go” to college. I fell in love with the challenge of the school and the international studies department. I started as a history major with a goal of transferring into international studies. I graduated with an international studies degree.

Q: What were your first impressions and adjustments?

A: I don’t really remember my first impressions during my matriculation. It was all a blur, but I do remember my first visit to VMI. I visited The Citadel as well before visiting VMI. I instantly knew I didn’t want to go there.

Even though it was stunningly beautiful, there was just something cold about the cadets there.

VMI wasn’t any more welcoming as a facility, but the cadets were.

I remember leaving my bag near the Jackson Arch for a few hours and came back, and it was still there. I instantly knew something was different about VMI, and I liked it. That locked in my decision.

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What are your most memorable events or experiences at VMI?

A: Women coming to VMI was the experience for my class. The Class of 1999 had two years of all male and two years of coeducation. It is no secret the future of the school was in real doubt in 1995-96. But after it was decided that VMI would stay a state school

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Conor Powell ’99 reporting from Benghazi at an anti-Gaddafi rally in 2011. and admit women, Superintendent Bunting [’63] and other school officials said, “We are soldiers. We salute and follow orders and do what must be done.” Few people at VMI liked it, but everyone recognized the need for it. To me, that was an important life lesson.

Q: Tell us about entering the workforce fulltime following VMI.

A: I took a circuitous route to my current career. After graduating from VMI, I worked in Richmond for the VIPNet Authority in 1999-2001. The VIPNet Authority was Virginia’s e-government project which put most of the commonwealth’s government activities online. I worked on projects that helped move the driving license process online. It was a really exciting time in the technology world! It combined my interest in technology and politics and government, so it was a great first job.

Q: Did VMI prepare you for life after school?

How did it impact your career and personal life?

A: Without a doubt, VMI was a challenging place before I was there, while I was there and I know it remains a challenging place.

The challenges may all be different. The Rat Line is constantly evolving. The school is constantly changing. But there is always a challenge there. And that was the big take-away for me. Life changes, but there will always be challenges, and VMI helped me prepare for them and taught me how to deal with them.

Q: Did you find it daunting to strike out on a dream for which you didn’t have specific training?

A: I knew nothing about journalism, nor did I know anyone in journalism when I started.

I just started searching for emails of reporters, producers and editors. I asked them all if I could buy them a coffee or lunch and pick their minds. Probably only one out of 10 answered my emails, but the ones who did were incredibly kind and a huge help to me – mostly helping me believe the transition from the corporate/sales world to journalism was possible.

Q: Describe challenges you encountered in changing careers.

A: My lack of experience or contacts was the single greatest challenge. Most of my colleagues either have family members in media or started the process at a young age with internships throughout college. Needless to say, at 27-28, trying to jump into journalism was difficult. I really didn’t know much about the industry, and in 2005-08, it was changing dramatically because of the Internet and financial crisis.

One journalist, who became a mentor (White House Correspondent Connie Lawn), told me in 2006 not to worry about if my first job was in TV or radio or print. She said they are all merging and to jump on the first opportunity.

Within a year, I was doing a little of everything, and she was right.

Q: Any lessons learned that stand out?

A: I learned at VMI, there isn’t a linear line to your goal. There is just perseverance. I am often asked how I ended up where I am, and it honestly was a series of calculated risks that I thought might help move me forward. I think VMI taught me how to think like that.

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Choose a goal and then plan a path to it and at the same time, be willing to deviate if other options presented themselves.

Q: Describe your path to landing a job with Fox News.

A: Again, I have VMI to thank, in part, for my job at Fox News. During summer 2008, I was in D.C. working for News Channel 8 covering politics. One night, during the height of the election, I was out with three classmates: Mike Purdy ’99, Jeremy Obenchain ’99 and Isaac Moore ’99.

Isaac was a U.S Marine captain at the time, and as we were talking about the surge in Iraq and the Obama/ McCain policy stances, Isaac said, “Iraq is over; one way or another, good or bad.

As a military, we are focused on prepping and training for Afghanistan.”

That statement in the middle of 2008 was a shock, because everything was about the merits of the McCain and Obama Iraq policies. Isaac said to me, “If you want to cover wars, go to Afghanistan.” Later that fall, The New York Times did a story about the difficulties the U.S. TV networks faced transitioning from Iraq to Afghanistan during the financial crisis.

I spent the next six months figuring out how to make the move. Ultimately, I bought a video camera, taught myself to edit on Mac Final Cut Pro and quit my job in D.C. Shortly after my conversation with Isaac, I emailed and researched anyone and everyone who had been to Afghanistan as a freelance journalist. I also asked a few friends about jobs.

Leon Harris, a former CNN anchor who was at my station, put me in touch with the former CNN news chief, Eason Jordan, who was setting up his own media consultancy firm in Afghanistan. Eason then put me in touch with John Stack of Fox News who was in the process of trying to figure

out – like all media organizations at the time – how to shift resources from Iraq to Afghanistan in the middle of a major financial crisis.

I sold myself as a reporter willing to shoot video, edit video and report solo. And that I would gladly work as a cameraman or producer or reporter. I just wanted my foot in the door.

I moved to Afghanistan in late February 2009 and started as cameraman for Fox News Channel.

When I quit my job in D.C., I didn’t have a job lined up, but John Stack called me a day or two before I left and said that he didn’t know how FNC would employee me, but if I got to Afghanistan, they would. My first job was as a cameraman on an embed for another FNC reporter. Then I helped set up the news bureau.

I produced for a few other FNC reporters who came to Afghanistan, and then U.S. Marines landed in Helmand province July 1, 2009, and FNC put me on just about every show they had.

I managed not to screw it up, and they’ve been putting me on air ever since.

Q:

Cracking the barriers of military bureaucracy can be perplexing to get the information you need. How did you navigate that process?

A: I have always relied on my eyes more than my ears for reporting. Both in the military and politics, people say things that are just not backed up by the facts. Most of what is said in a professional situation these days is part of a well-crafted message. I always look to see if I can see proof of what I am being told.

Q: Describe the most fascinating reporting for any period.

A: Being around history and people of history is what I love about the job. I think the two events that I loved witnessing the most were the war in Libya and the military coup in Egypt in 2012.

Both were wildly misunderstood events by Americans and the world. And seeing them firsthand was incredible.

Q: Who are some of

the most unforgettable characters you encountered?

A: I am fortunate to have interviewed gener-

Powell, right, with Ashraf Ghani, president of Afghanistan, after an interview in April 2014.

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als and politicians from Gen. Petraeus to Gen. McChyrstal, Sen. McCain to Secretary of State Kerry. I think most about the ones I interviewed that have been killed. I got to know both Ambassador Chris Stevens and the journalist Jim Foley.

Both, sadly, were killed at the hands of terrorists.

Q: What were your most harrowing experiences?

A: I have had several close calls professionally.

I think most people in conflict areas do.

I missed a suicide bomber at our local supermarket in Kabul by about 90 seconds, leaving just before the attacker walked in. The fact I didn’t have enough cash on me was the only reason I wasn’t still in there.

I have been shot at and around things exploding way too many times to count. But, hands-down, the most frightening experience I’ve had was my two weeks in Gaza during summer 2014.

As one of the cameramen I regularly work with says, “When you are in Gaza during a war, you are on the losing side of the war.” He is right. Regardless of anyone’s politics and view of the 2014 Gaza war, everyone can agree, Gaza was pounded intensely for 50 days, and the destruction was unprecedented. Being near, seeing and hearing constant artillery and rocket fire for two weeks took a massive toll – physically and mentally. It was the only time I’ve left an area and knew I was broken. But as a journalist, I can’t complain too much. Ultimately, I chose to be there and can leave Gaza or any conflict zone.

Most of the people I cover cannot.

Q: What are your future aspirations?

A:

For now, I am really happy as a foreign correspondent. I would love to keep doing that, but it is definitely hard being away from the U.S. Hopefully, someday we will get back to the USA, and I can return to reporting on politics or national security.

About the author: Retired U.S. Army Col. Sonny Craven served as previous VMI director of communications and marketing. His diverse career includes 13 years as an Army public affairs officer. He began his Army career in television operations and served in Vietnam as a combat photography team leader. He commanded the American Forces Network, Europe, in central Europe, the Defense Department’s largest overseas radio and television network, and the Army audiovisual training school. After retirement, he developed a school of film and television for a large Miami college and became its first dean, and later, director of entertainment technologies. He lives in central Florida.

Editor’s Note: All photos for this article were provided by Powell.

Vmi Alumni Review

Message from Donald M. Wilkinson ’61 Campaign Chairman Among the most challenging things to manage in life and business are high expectations. Whenever a company successfully develops a new product or service, after the initial acclaim, people inevitably ask, “What’s next?” It’s the same with Wilkinson ’61 people. If an executive successfully turns around an ailing corporation or an athlete performs at the highest level, he or she is expected to not just repeat but improve on that performance.

Doubtlessly, people have high expectations of VMI alumni. They trust in our integrity and honor. They trust we will work hard.

They expect us to serve. They depend on us to lead. Stories abound about alumni who are immediately told by new bosses that a VMI alumnus was the best officer, colleague, executive, lawyer, doctor ... whatever ... they have ever known. Any initial dismay – described to me as the, “How am I ever going to live up to that?” moment – is quickly replaced by a feeling of pride in their fellow alumni and a determination to meet those expectations. What people expect of our alumni reflects what our great nation also expects of VMI: To provide it with educated, honorable and resolute leaders imbued with a strong sense of service who will succeed and lead in varied professions. Meeting these expectations has never been easy, but our alumni have always been determined that VMI will meet them.

This is the reason the Institute launched An

Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI. Through it, VMI is raising the crucial money it needs – and will need tomorrow – to reinforce its successes and make the improvements necessary to pursue its uncommon purpose – graduating citizen-soldiers – well into the future.

The campaign has enjoyed substantial success since it was launched, because its alumni and its friends have met another long-standing expectation of being loyal and generous donors to VMI. There is much time left in this campaign, and there are abundant opportunities to support it. Please consider the role you want to play in helping VMI meet the nation’s expectations and continuing to produce educated leaders of character. If you have already made a gift or commitment, I thank you for your generosity.

Not a Luxury, But a Necessity

by Col. James E. Turner Sr. ’65, Department of Biology Head It’s indisputable that private financial support is critical to the Institute. During this academic year, in fact, a quarter of one out of every four dollars that VMI spent to educate the Corps of Cadets came from private sources. Yet, to get an idea of just how important this support is to VMI, all you need to do is visit any academic department.

In the biology department, private money supports every aspect of our work. For example, conducting meaningful research keeps our faculty at the forefront of their respective specialties and provides them with the constant intellectual engagement that hones their abilities to provide cadets with an effective, up-to-date education. Just as important, conducting research is the opportunity to present the results of their research to their peers. Making presentations at conferences and symposia allows our faculty to interact with their colleagues and gain from their comments. It also gives VMI increased visibility within their fields, which burnishes the department’s academic reputation and the Institute’s as a whole.

Often, cadets’ research, guided by our faculty, gives them additional insights into

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what they are studying in the classroom and provides them with practical experience they can apply in their careers or in graduate and professional education. How cadets benefit from conducting research goes beyond an increased knowledge of a certain subject. It

generates a genuine intellectual excitement in them, gives them a sense of accomplishment, boosts their self-confidence, and helps them realize their potential as students and scientists.

These research activities are possible only

Col. James E. Turner Sr. ’65 working with Luke Johnson ’17 on research related to Parkinson’s disease.

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because of private funds. For example, one of my colleagues, Lt. Col. Anne Alerding, recently conducted a summer research project related to biofuels in which a cadet was intensely involved. They also traveled to various conferences, presenting their findings and interacting with others in the field. Alerding and the cadet could do this work because private funds helped underwrite their travel and provide laboratory equipment and materials.

The positive effects of private money on VMI’s academic enterprise can be somewhat indirect. No matter how deeply engaged faculty members are with the lives of its cadets, there are times when it is important for them as professionals to step away from VMI for a prolonged period to conduct research. Last year, one of the biology department’s professors, Lt. Col. Pieter deHart, was granted a semester-long sabbatical during which he studied various fish in the Amazon River basin. To say that his research was fruitful would be an understatement. He returned with new information, renewed energy and an utterly contagious enthusiasm. DeHart could not have taken this leave, however, unless the Wachmeister Sabbatical Leave Fund – established in the 1970s by the father of two alumni, Frederik Wachmeister – had provided the resources necessary to hire a visiting professor while he was in Brazil. Over this past Thanksgiving furlough, deHart went back to the Amazon with two cadets for further study and research – an experience which had a considerable impact on these young people!

Many older alumni will remember Robert P. “Doc” Carroll, who was a professor in the biology department for decades. He was renowned for many things, such as his dry humor and often acerbic wit, but primarily for his intense devotion to biology majors. Carroll inspired many of them to go to medical or dental school or pursue graduate education, and he often had more confidence in cadets’ abilities than they did themselves. Alumni honored him by establishing the Colonel Robert P. Carroll Educational Fund, which supports the biology department. Thanks to the generosity of hundreds of alumni, it is a wellspring of support without which the department could not function at the level that it does. It has allowed us to offer our cadets engaging experiences in the classroom and laboratory, expand our course offerings and enhance our ability to take cadets into the field (quite literally) to perform that hands-on work that is so important to this discipline. Because of these new initiatives and the creation of four new concentrations – molecular biology, ecology, exercise science and general biology – the number of biology majors has doubled over the past six years.

I have personally benefited from alumni gifts that support the Institute professorships which are highly competitive and awarded to those faculty who have made significant achievements in teaching, research, institutional advancement and cadet development. Last year, I was awarded the Beverly M. Read 1941 Institute Professorship in the Arts and Sciences, which comes with discretionary funds I use to

support my research with cadets into Parkinson’s disease. I am grateful for those alumni who had the foresight to establish this means of recognizing and supporting VMI’s faculty.

I’m sure all of my colleagues would tell you much the same story: How the generosity of past and present donors translates into a stronger academic enterprise, how it improves the ability of our faculty members to teach and mentor our cadets, and how it enriches the education of every cadet and better prepares them for life after graduation. They also would say that these improvements boost VMI’s overall academic performance and enhance its academic reputation. Finally, they would tell you that this is why increasing the support for VMI’s academic program is an important goal of An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI. About the author: After a career in biomedical research, medical education and administration, Col. Turner returned to VMI in 1991 as the Wachmeister Visiting Distinguished Chair in the Sciences and then took a full-time position as the Institute’s founding director for undergraduate research in 2001.

Since 2009, he has been a professor and head of the biology department. In 2015, he was presented the State Council Higher Education in Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award. He received his Doctor of Philosophy degree in zoology from the University of Tennessee and a Master of Science degree in biology from the University of Richmond.

Why Bergren ’08 Gives

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

As a cadet, Molly Bergren ’08 was a dean’s list biology major who was inducted into Beta Beta Beta, the national biology honors society, during her 1st Class year. She completed seven years of active-duty and reserve service in the U.S. Air Force, attaining the grade of captain.

Inspired by the biology faculty, she pursued a career in biology. She previously was the natural resources manager at Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico and also worked in the Air Quality Program there as a contractor. She currently works as a natural resources biologist at Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. In 2013, she earned a Master of Science degree in environmental policy and management with a concentration in fish and wildlife management from American Military University.

In Fiscal Year 2015, she made her first gift to VMI; specifically to the Colonel Robert P. Carroll Educational Fund, which supports cadets and their faculty mentors in the biology department. We asked her to discuss her experience at VMI and her reasons for giving in support of its academic program.

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Vmi Alumni Review

Q: Why did you attend VMI? A: I chose VMI because I knew it would be a challenge. As a competitive person, I wanted a college that would make me work hard on a daily basis, keep me accountable or teach me to be an even better version of who I am.

are the tools and skill sets necessary to handle various situations appropriately and effectively. Both as an officer and, now, a natural resources biologist, I am able to work efficiently, think critically and lead others.

Q: What motivated you to begin giving to VMI; specifically, the Carroll Fund?

Q: What are your thoughts on your overall academic experience?

A: It was hard! But, it was a lot of fun, too. I not only learned a lot about biology but also how to learn – what works for me and what doesn’t – and how to use those strengths and overcome any weaknesses.

Q: Describe your experience as a biology major. Did you pursue your own research?

A: I didn’t pursue research at VMI, but I enjoyed so much of the program. While I often wished that there was a broader offering of classes, I know I got an excellent general biology background. I also loved being part of a small department in which I felt comfortable with my classmates and professors. I knew I could rely on any of them for support and help.

Q: What about the biology department faculty? How were they helpful, influential or inspirational?

A: It was an ornithology course, taught

by Col. Richard Rowe, and an ecology course that pushed me in the direction of a career in natural resources management and wildlife biology. Seeing professors who are excited about a subject is a huge motivator for students and keeps them excited about learning. I appreciated, too, the great job they did in getting us into the field.

There is so much more out there beyond the classroom and laboratory, and it was a great experience!

Q: How well did VMI prepare you to be

A: Whenever I go back to VMI, I try to stop by the department. I have been excited about its expansion. An increased variety and availability of courses was the one thing I would have changed while I was a cadet, and now, its course offerings cover a greater variety of subjects. I am very happy to see it growing and changing in a very positive direction!

I decided to donate in order to have an impact on the program’s growth and to directly benefit cadets in it. The education cadets receive is the most important part of attending VMI. Without great programs providing a great education, the rest of the VMI experience won’t be as successful.

Donating to a fund that helps improve and grow the department is the best way to ensure it continues to provide a great academic experience to its cadets.

Q: If brother rats asked you why they should support VMI financially, what would you tell them?

A: After graduation, many of my friends said it was difficult to consider just returning to VMI, let alone supporting it financially. It’s easy to get caught up in the little things that were negative or frustrating. I would encourage them to move past those things and instead think about their accomplishments since graduation and what led them to where they are today. For me, the answer pointed back to the many lessons I learned while at VMI. Being able to donate today makes me proud of my post-VMI accomplishments and thankful for the experiences I had during those four years.

an officer and a scientist?

A: Many people told me that VMI would be the hardest test of my life and that once I had accomplished it, I could do anything.

I actually disagree with that sentiment.

While VMI is a tough environment, many situations in the military and civilian sectors present more complex and deeper issues. What the VMI experience does provide

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Photo, opposite page: For Molly Bergren ’08, “in the office” means being in the field. She is pictured here participating in the capture-and-release of a deer as part of a study at Joint Base San Antonio-Bullis.

Right: In her work as a natural resources biologist, even training takes Bregren to some extraordinary places – in this case, Alaska.

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First Fall Reunion

Sept. 11-12, 2015 Classes of 1970, 1980 and the Honored Class of 1990

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Vmi Alumni Review

Second Fall Reunion

Oct. 10-11, 2015 Classes of 2000, 2010, 2014 and the Honored Class of 2005

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Vmi Alumni Review

Association News Charlotte Chapter Hosts Rat Send-off

The Charlotte Chapter hosted a barbecue and rat send-off at the home of Pat Morgan ’54 Aug. 8, 2015. Nearly 50 alumni and family members welcomed the area’s three new matriculating cadets.

George C. Marshall and Potomac River Chapters Host Rat Send-off

The joint George C. Marshall and Potomac River Chapters’ annual rat send-off and summer alumni picnic was held Aug. 8, 2015, at the Izaack Walton League in Centerville, Virginia, for matriculating cadets from northern Virginia and the Washington, D.C., area. More than 17 incoming cadets and their families joined several dozen alumni to enjoy a barbecue lunch. All photos by Cassie Mulheron.

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Association News

North Jersey Chapter Hosts Rat Send-off On Aug. 8, 2015, the North Jersey Chapter hosted a rat send-off at the Summit New Jersey Elks Lodge 1246. In their largest send-off event, more than 60 alumni, parents, friends, current cadets and matriculating cadets were present. John Lane ’68 spoke on the founding of VMI, the meaning of Col. J.T.L Preston’s inscription on the parapet and the things that make VMI special. Eight incoming cadets from New Jersey and New York were recognized, and each was given a copy of the book, “Virginia’s Ring,” with a personalized autograph from author Lynn Seldon ’83.

Left: Pictured at the event were, from left, Kevin Sincavage ’87, Ken Kalisky ’73, John Bove ’19, Maxwell Horowitz ’19, Eddie Gloeggler ’14, Alec Vasi ’19, Kishan Patel ’19, Nicholas Zimmerman ’19, Jacob Ferraro ’19, Spencer Balsom ’19, Tyler Bernero ’19, Rick Wolffe ’78, Andy Tunnard ’89, Matt Lazzarotti ’18, John Lane ’68, Joe Riccadonna ’18, Nick Celfo ’18 and Brian Holt ’08. Present but not pictured was Robbie DiDomenico ’07.

Tampa Alumni Host Rat Send-off A week before matriculation, Tampa area alumni gathered at Hula Bay Restaurant on the Tampa Bay waterfront to give their best wishes and encouragement to Ben Wagner ’19, then a matriculating cadet, and his parents. Also attending this year’s event were 3rd Class Cadet Bryson Kelly ’18, last year’s send-off recipient; and Betty Valenti, Grace Bailey and Ann Lloyd, alumni wives.

Above: From left, Phil Valenti ’66, John Kudrysch ’15, Hartnell Paultre ’15, Ben Wagner ’19, Bryson Kelly ’18, Bob Bailey ’72 and Cal Lloyd ’62.

Right: Ben Wagner ’19 and his parents.

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VMI Alumni Review

Association News

Superintendent’s Reception Held in Northern Virginia On Sept. 30, 2015, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, traveled to Falls Church, Virginia, to meet alumni and guests from the Potomac River and George C. Marshall Chapters. The evening began with a social affair when alumni greeted one another and shared fellowship.

Peay then addressed the group and provided an overview of the Institute today. In addition to sharing VMI headlines, Peay talked about the transformation that has taken place through Vision 2039. General John Jumper ’66 then provided an overview of campaign results. He reported that An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI had exceeded expectations to this point, both in dollars raised and donor response.

Announcing Graduate School Partnerships Virginia Military Institute has forged relationships with some of the best graduate and professional schools in Virginia and across the United States. These agreements offer a range of opportunities, including admissions concessions, internships, guaranteed interviews and, in some cases, guaranteed admissions.

Partnership institutions include Virginia Commonwealth University, University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, College of William & Mary, Florida State University, Norwich University, Arizona State and the Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. Programs vary but include law, medicine, business, engineering, communications and other fields.

If interested in learning more about the available partnerships, please contact Atin Basu at basuchoudharya@vmi.edu.

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VMI Veterans Transition Program Are you retiring or planning to transition from active duty military service to another job or career? If so, The VMI Alumni Association, Inc. can help.

Please contact Career Networking officer Eric Hunter ’08 at ehunter@vmiaa.org, and discover how you can find a rewarding career in the civilian workforce through networking with other alumni.

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Association News

2015 California Networking Dinners

by Eric Hunter ’08, Career Networking Officer, VMI Alumni Association

For the second year, networking dinners were held in northern and southern California between alumni from senior military colleges and service academies.

Fritz Schrichte ’90, the managing partner of Diversified Global, spoke at the northern California event, which was held in Burlingame, California. With seven years of growing Diversified Global, which is an international executive, sales and technical search firm, Schrichte was able to speak on a topic not commonly discussed in the work place – motivation.

He shared what he has learned in regards to what motivates an individual in the workplace.

Nathan Smith ’03, the chief operating officer of Hire Heroes USA, spoke at the southern California event, which was held in Carlsbad, California. Smith has been with the nonprofit for more than five years and was able to speak on hiring trends they are seeing across the country. Hire Heroes USA has ofAt the networking dinner in Burlingame, California, were, from left, Fritz fices across the country, with one of them being in San Diego.

Schrichte ’90, Matthew Sharpe ’04, Brian Andrew ’03, Margaret Smith ’05 Smith was able to bring their office manager, and he shared on and Erik Wilkerson ’03. specific movement in the job market with the local southern California area.

Thank you to the alumni who attended, Schrichte and Smith for agreeing to speak, and to Brian Andrew ’03 and Micah Wei ’99, the chapter presidents for the Northern and Southern California chapters, respectively, for running the dinners.

We welcomed them as rats in our own special way ... now let’s welcome them as alumni!

Please join the Young Alumni Committee in giving warm and hearty congratulations to our newest alumni ranks, the Class of 2016!

We will celebrate with them Friday, May 13, 2016, in Moody Hall.

For more information, contact Eric Hunter ’08 at ehunter@vmiaa.org.

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VMI Alumni Review

Association News

2015 Cadet-Alumni Networking Forum

by Eric Hunter ’08, Career Networking Officer, VMI Alumni Association This year boasted another successful Cadet-Alumni Networking Forum. On Dec. 5, 2015, 36 alumni returned to post to be panelists within 11 industry groups to share information about their careers with cadets. The event consisted of two breakout sessions, a keynote speaker and one hour of open networking.

The keynote speaker was Eric Damon ’04, director of government sales at Trivalent, a company recognized for its leadership in the data privacy market. He challenged the cadets to find work that they love and not to settle. The networking forum not only allows cadets to

Alumni panelists gave introductions before the cadets.

glean knowledge from alumni, but it provides alumni with an opportunity to meet and network with others within their line of work.

Thank you to all the alumni who took the time to attend and contribute in the career development process of the current cadets. It is the sharing of your career decisions and life events which allows you to plant seeds and see how your life can positively impact the next generation.

If you are interested in participating as a panelist in an upcoming forum, please email Eric Hunter ’08 at ehunter@vmiaa.org.

Grover Outland ’81 gave the opening remarks and emphasized urgency to cadets in their job searches.

Above, left: Ashley Johnson ’84 and Henry Meredith ’15 spoke with cadets at the media/film/communication industry group.

Above, right: Bob Louthan ’82, Bret Wilkinson ’94 and Bill Miller ’89 spoke with cadets at the business/investments/finance industry group.

Bottom, left: Mike Fleenor ’75 of Appalachian Orthopaedic Associates spoke with the Medical/Healthcare industry group.

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Association News

Passion vs. Excitement: What is Driving Your Career Decisions?

by Eric Hunter ’08, Career Networking Officer, VMI Alumni Association Within your line of work, do you have passion or excitement driving you? You may think that you should have both with whatever work you are in. “If I am passionate about something, then it must be exciting,” or, “If I am excited about something, then I must have a passion for it.” Yes, we have things we are passionate about, and we also have things we are excited about.

When making career decisions, we need to understand both of those in our lives, because I believe excitement can easily be mistaken for passion. We hear about a job that is exciting, or we see someone else doing something exciting, and we think that we are attracted to it by passion. With the thought of passion in us, we then begin to pursue that job or line of work. However, as time progresses, we wonder why we are there when it is no longer

exciting. While attending VMI, I took a class on entrepreneurship. I remember the professor stating that there are many people continuously starting companies and then getting out of them. As I write, I wonder if those individuals continue to start new businesses not because they are passionate about it, but because it is exciting to them.

It is important to understand who we are as individuals. We need to know who we are in the sense of what drives us and what keeps us motivated in the midst of difficult times. If we do not know this, we are going to constantly be unhappy in our current positions, because we do not know why we are there when it seems like everyone else is doing something so much more exciting.

The growth of social media over the years does not help. Information about others is

Save the Date: Upcoming Networking Breakfasts

now so accessible, and we are able to see where they are and the positions they are in.

We are not only able to read the information, but we can see it in posts and pictures. If we do not know why we are at our current positions, it can easily cause unrest, because what others are doing looks and seems more exciting. As that unrest builds, and we continue to look at the “exciting” work of others, it will cause us to start making career decisions based upon the need for new excitement.

I encourage you to really think about your passions and what you enjoy doing. There will always be things that are exciting, but whether or not you are passionate about and enjoy doing them is another story.

In your career, go after passion rather than excitement – passion will overcome difficult times when excitement fades away.

Save the Date: Legacy Day

Date: March 19, 2016

For the third year in a row, networking breakfasts will be held throughout Virginia on the first Saturday of VMI’s spring furlough, March 19, 2016.

This is a great opportunity for alumni to network with each other and assist current cadets in internship or job searches.

If you would like to sponsor one of the events in your area, please contact Eric Hunter ’08 at ehunter@vmiaa.org.

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April 16, 2016 Please contact Matthew Clausen ’15, new program outreach coordinator, at mclausen@vmiaa.org.

Photo by Sarah Brown Photography.

Locations: Hampton Roads Chapters Potomac River & George C. Marshall Chapters Richmond Chapter

VMI Alumni Review

Contact Cheryl Cathcart to place an order.

1-800-444-1839 • ccathcart@vmiaa.org Shako Pendant

$34.99 plus $6 shipping ($15.00 if overnight) Includes an 18 inch gold-filled chain

VMI New Market Battlefield Tartan Scarf : $45.00 plus $5 shipping Necktie : $40.00 plus $5 shipping

“Put the Boys In …” $250.00 unframed art plus $20 shipping (VA & CT residents add $16.20 for tax)

VMI Mailbox

Original VMI mailboxes available to purchase as a single door or have it incorporated into a wooden coin box. Wood used will be red oak and you can choose walnut or oak stain.

VMI Stemless Wine Glasses

Single 9 oz. glass - $10.00 plus $5 shipping Set of 2 - $18.39 plus $8 shipping Set of 4 - $35.00 plus $10 shipping

Wooden Coin Box - $65.00 plus $12 shipping Single Door - $35.00 plus $7 shipping *Price includes customized number on glass.

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Association News

Class of 1973 Roommates Renew Vows in Jackson Memorial Hall

Class of 1973 brother rats and their wives who participated in the vow renewal ceremony were, from left, Matthew and Beth Tignor, Larry and Debbie Mays, Arthur Phyllis Pendleton, and Sandy and June McNamara.

Larry Mays ’73, Matthew Tignor ’73, Maurice “Sandy” McNamara ’73 and Arthur Pendleton ’73, who last roomed together in room 148, have attempted to get together as often as possible in the years following their graduation. Working in successful careers as a board-certified infectious disease specialist, a president of a natural gas company, an insurance and banking executive, and an educational administrator, there was not much time over the years for the BRs and roommates to reunite.

They held a mini reunion in November 2014, during which they vowed to spend time together on a more regular basis. They scheduled another get-together for spring 2015, but life got in the way, and they were unable to meet. Mays stated, “We, the roommates and wives, have each risen to the different challenges in our lives with the ‘never say die’ spirit of VMI.” Of the group’s strong bond, Pendleton said, “I often use the expression, ‘Only at VMI.’ I guess only VMI graduates can truly understand what a tight bond we develop among our brother rats. When you have three brother rats that you roomed with for three years and one of whom you roomed with all four years of your cadet life ... well, let’s just say you become very close. [In the] 42 years since graduation from VMI, that bond has just grown stronger.”

Tignor further explained, “I heard that you made very strong friendships at VMI, so I went [there] in search of those friendships and

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found them in my roommates: Larry, Sandy and Arthur.”

Mays confessed, “Without the support of my roommates, I probably would not have made it to graduation. They accepted me as a brother many years ago in the crucible of VMI. The continuing camaraderie and loyalty are essential to the brother rat spirit but has forged in me a love for them and VMI.” When the time came for the group’s fall 2015 gathering, one of their wives suggested – half jokingly – that the couples participate in a vow renewal ceremony during their time together.

The idea took hold, and after the football game versus Morehead State University Sept. 12, 2015, all four couples renewed their vows in a ceremony in Jackson Memorial Hall.

Pendleton explained, “When the talk started about a marriage vow renewal ceremony with the eight of us, we all knew it was more than just renewal of our individual vows. It was a ceremony to cement our lifelong friendships and pledge our continued support in sickness and in health.

As you get older and experience illness among your loved ones, close friendships become more important than ever.” Tignor shared, “Having my closest friends to share renewing our vows was such a fantastic and emotional experience.

You cannot explain it to anyone without them experiencing it themselves – for them to feel the true rush of emotion that went with it.”

Colonel James Park, VMI chaplain, served as officiant for the vow renewal ceremony.

Members of the VMI Pipe and Drum band played the “Wedding March” and “Recessional,” while the officer of the day served as witness. The wives were gifted with VMI bracelets after the ceremony. McNamara stated, “It was more emotional than I thought it was going to be. Chaplain Park was absolutely marvelous and said all the right things. It was an experience that I will absolutely never forget and was one of the highlights of my life.”

Pendleton echoed McNamara’s sentiments, expressing, “The fact is that these young, extremely impressive VMI cadets and their chaplain truly made an impact on all of us and certainly made us proud of them. We thank each of them for being there with us.”

Looking back on their time at the Institute, Mays recalled, “As cadets during reunion weekends, more than one would remark that we would not be like the old codgers, the alumni, in the court yard giving their Old Yell ... Admittedly, my roommates and I have become those old codgers. We are stirred by the passing of the Corps in review on the Parade Ground; thrilled watching VMI compete in athletics; moved while singing the ‘Doxology’ and ‘The Spirit;’ encouraged to service by the garrison flags flying on a cloudless day; empathetic with those straining rats; calmed by the gloomy gray of winter; pride-filled gazing at barracks from the porch of Moody Hall on a full moon-lit night; and, most importantly, feeling the intense bonds forged for VMI and the love we have for each other.”

VMI Alumni Review

Association News

Plaque in Moody Hall Dedicated in Honor of Sloan During a Keydet Club Board of Governors dinner Oct. 16, 2015, a plaque was dedicated to Thomas Sloan Jr., honoring him for his more than 40 years of service to the Institute.

Sloan has served as bartender for many large events on post – including reunions, board dinners and weddings – over the years. Sloan has also represented the Alumni Association as a representative for the many events and banquets that take place in Moody Hall. In that role, he ensures that events run smoothly and visitors have the information they need.

The plaque, which now hangs behind the bar in the Moody Hall lounge, reads, “His excellent service and tireless dedication to the alumni and the Virginia Military Institute are trademarks of this wonderful man. Thomas is

Above: Greg Cavallaro ’84, Keydet Club chief executive officer, shook Thomas Sloan’s hand at the dedication of the plaque in Moody Hall Oct. 16, 2015.

Below: Sloan with his plaque after the dedication. a familiar face to many and a central ingredient in fellowship for the VMI family. His efforts to assist where needed and friendly attitude serving all are renowned and well appreciated. This space is hereby dedicated to Thomas Sloan for his faithful performance of duty and commitment to the VMI alumni.”

Greg Cavallaro ’84, Keydet Club chief executive officer, stated, “Over the years, Thomas Sloan has become one of the familiar and iconic figures associated with VMI. His dependable ‘can do’ attitude, pleasant personality and love for VMI have made him a favorite amongst the generations of VMI alumni he has served in Moody Hall, across the VMI post and around our community. It’s only fitting Thomas be recognized and remembered for decades to come in this meaningful way.”

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Post-Graduate Scholarships Available 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 Lt. Col. Meagan Herald, chair of the Graduate Education Subcommittee (heraldmc@vmi. edu). The deadline for the receipt of all application materials is March 15, 2016.

2016-Issue 1

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35

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36

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Vmi Alumni Review

CLASS NOTES and Christmas. They have recently acquired a new smoker and are going to “attempt a smoked turkey,” said Tom. The Arnold boys recently visited a ranch, the home of some church friends, which gave Eddie – a veteran of “F” Troop, 103rd Cavalry Happy New Year from the Class of 1935!

(Fort Myer, Virginia) – a chance to demonIt is wintertime, and that means birthdays.

Eddie Arnold (Feb. 7) and Jim Sherman strate his skill with horses. Eddie was assigned (March 31) are celebrating 102. However, that to the VMI cavalry before the war, and there is will not get them out of guard duty. a wonderful group picture of Eddie and some I wish to thank everyone who responded to of VMI’s legends astride their mounts in the our notes on the Meem family, one of VMI’s dis1941 Bomb.

Eddie and Tom are very proud of Aaron tinguished families. (See 2015-Issue 3, page 22.)

Arnold (grandson and older son, reNothing was written about the VMI men who “married into” the Meem spectively), who was recently commisfamily, but there were quite a few; for sioned in the Army’s Chaplain Corps. example, Brig. Gen. Samuel Garland A hearty “well done” to all concerned!

Jr. ’849, CSA. Garland (a kinsman (Here’s a tip of the kepi, Tom, for beof James Madison) was from Lynching such a big help with these class notes the last five years.) burg. He was killed near Boonsboro, I spoke with Jim Sherman in late Maryland, in advance of Sharpsburg, October. He had just returned from in 1862. Before the war was over, one the gym, where he works out daily of his Meem nephews would bear his for 45 minutes. He used to work out name. (See next paragraph.) for an hour, but “had to cut back,” There was one error in the Meem he said. Jim and Peggy were looking account that I need to correct for forward to Thanksgiving and Christthe record, as the notes we write are subject to review generations from mas. Peggy has three sons, and two now. Gilbert Simrall Meem was Class of 1935: Eddie Arnold, former cavalry officer, and his mount. of them are in North Carolina – not not a member of the Class of 1886. far away. Jim and Peggy planned to In fact, he was not an alumnus. Rather, his son, Hugh Garland Meem ’886 – the one killed in the see them and their families during the holidays.

Jim said that he keeps up with VMI football. mining accident – was a member of that class.

In 1935, the class was celebrating the Bomb’s Jim asked me for Eddie Arnold’s address, and 50th anniversary, and our editor, William I sent it to him.

Until next time, here is wishing you and Clary Holt, devoted a page to the Bomb’s hisyours the very best. tory. Clary wrote that, during the first business Dick ’70 meeting (in 1885), “the barracks were shaken by the explosion of a bomb in the courtyard.”

Paul E. Munson ’87 And that is how the Bomb got its name. That was some firecracker.

I spoke with Jane Ferrell (Mrs. William Barksdale “Nip” Ferrell) in late October. Jane lives in Vero Beach, Florida, near her son, Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the “Tuck,” and she enjoys many activities, including swimming, reading and bridge. Jane also Class of 1936. likes to drive. When we spoke, she was getting John Forsyth ’67 ready to drive to Virginia for the holidays. Jane is almost 97 and is doing something I won’t do: Driving on I-95. (For now, we’ll defer a discussion on the driving itself.)

Dr. Tom Arnold, Eddie Arnold’s eldest son, Class of 1935: Eddie Arnold’s grandson, Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the wrote that Eddie; Tom; and Tom’s younger son, Aaron, left, at his commissioning ceremony.

Class of 1937.

Austin, were looking forward to Thanksgiving

Richard H. Knight Jr. ’70

’35

’36 ’37

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Class Notes

’38

Cody Hennelly ’10

To the Old Corps: Your spirit lives on through all of the alumni who came after you. As the Class of 2010 celebrated their 5th Reunion in fall 2015, your legacy was strong in our minds, and we thank you for paving the way!

Henry, as we said over the summer, I will keep my phone calls to every six months! But, that means by the time the next Review due date comes around ... I’ll be calling day and night!

Mizpah, Cody J. Hennelly ’10

Class of 1938: Van Naisawald ’42, 4th Class cadet, standing outside his dyke’s room before parade.

from the Class of ’39. I’m sure there are stories out there that the rest of us would really like to hear. Help me keep the memories alive.

Marcy and I are off to Europe just before Christmas for a ’64 mini reunion. We will do the Christmas markets along the Danube River from Vienna to Nuremburg. It’s always great to visit with my BRs and their wives and catch up on all the grandkids and other news.

Next May, we are planning to attend the Rotary International Convention in Seoul, Korea. Along with the convention, we plan to tour the Imjin River northeast of Seoul. It is where my father, Frank M. Parker Jr., was killed during the Korean War. He was building the Pintail Bridge over the Imjin River in 1951 into 1952 in order to better support the troops north of the river.

He died in a small plane (O-1) crash going between projects in June of ’52. The bridge was subsequently named after him.

Keep in touch.

’40 Class of 1938: The Class of 1938 marching parade practice in front of the commandant and superintendent. Both 1938 photos courtesy VMI Archives.

’39

Frank Parker III ’64

Ira Saxe is still doing well and getting around with his walker. His new hip is working well, but he needs his walker for stability.

Dick Knight ’70 sent me the following note: “Last time, I wrote you about Nashville’s ’39ers, but this time I want to write you about Lee Omar Brayton. The current capital campaign reminded me of what I am about to tell you. I was chairing

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Tennessee’s efforts during the VMI Sesquicentennial Campaign (1987-89). In that capacity, I did a lot of ‘cold calling.’ I heard that there was a prosperous cotton farmer in west Tennessee named Lee Omar Brayton. He was out of ’39.

I cold called him and described the Campaign in detail and explained my role. I told him that we were looking for alumni interested in participating. Mr. Brayton then asked me if $50,000 would be ‘OK.’ I replied, ‘Uh, yes, sir!’

“I never met Mr. Brayton, but when he died several years later, there were quite a few testimonials in Tennessee’s agricultural community and throughout west Tennessee about this gentleman.”

I’m looking for more stories about brother rats

Robert Smith

How blessed I feel for my progress in this battle to continue my recovery from my heart difficulties. The present challenge is the rehab program.

I am optimistic and even more in awe of the wonderful progress made over our lifetimes in the field of medicine. The saying that we live in interesting times continues to constantly resonate.

Recently, I had an end of summer call from Jacqueline Freidlander. Glad to learn that, even without Matt, she is still carrying on many of her seasonal routines. She was then just back from their mountain retreat near Ashville where she played a lot of duplicate bridge.

Sol Rawls called recently to inquire about my health and talk about VMI. It is most delightful to reminisce with Sol. He is always such good company. He seemed well and cheerful.

Ben Hardaway continues with what might be called his “glamourous” activities. During a recent call, I learned that his assistant, Beverley, goes with him in their Jeep on what seems like almost daily hunts. He told a tale of a recent coyote that gave them a good run and then went to the ground. The area was such pretty country that they decided to just enjoy the moment and the views of the countryside instead of digging

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the prey out! His protégé singer and entertainer, Shannon Whitworth, stays in touch as she nears the end of her “confinement.”

We are so few now that, as you can see, there is a corresponding paucity of news. It is my idea then to compensate for this shortage with what may be an interesting reminiscence about our time at VMI. Here’s one.

It was recently recalled that perhaps our most impressive faculty member and our “dean” was Gen. J.A. Anderson ’913, who was continually using a special saying to inspire us. His phrase was, “Work, and work will set you free,” (which in German is, “Arbeit macht frei.”) He was a wonderful and inspirational head of the Civil Engineering Department, and he used this phrase with the best of intentions to get us to take our studies ever more seriously. Who could have guessed that within a short time the phrase would be turned to cynical and despicable usage by the Nazis in Germany? It probably took many decades before most of us learned of this debased use of it. So, all the time while at VMI, we thought it was an inspiring phrase that was intended only to reinforce our good intentions to study hard and to make as much of ourselves and our opportunities as we could. Thus, the objective was to go on beyond whatever abilities our nurture to that point might have already have imbued us with!

Indeed, over the years this phrase has popped into my conscious many times; and many times I have welcomed it as a spur to industriousness. And when I do, I always think that learning it while at VMI was one more constructive facet of our great experience!

But now, to put this phrase into today’s perspective, a quote from Wiki may be of the easiest way.

Turns out the expression comes from the title of a German novel in which gamblers and fraudsters find the path to virtue through labor. The phrase was also used in French by the writer Auguste Forel in his, “Ants of Switzerland” (1920). In 1922, the Deutsche Schulverein of Vienna, an ethnic nationalist “protective” organization of Germans within the Austrian empire, printed membership stamps with the phrase, “Arbeit macht frei,” but during World War II, this phrase in German was used by the Nazis to mark the entrance of the camps! Considering the role played by the Auschwitz prisons during the Holocaust, as well as the individual prisoner’s knowledge that once they entered the camp, freedom was not likely to be obtained by any means other than

2016-Issue 1

death, the cruel comedy of the slogan becomes strikingly clear. The psychological impact it must have wrought on those who passed through the gates of each of the camps where it was displayed must have been incredibly powerful.

Regardless of the infamy which this phrase attained in later years, at the time Gen. Anderson introduced it to us, no such negative association was known about it, of course. Indeed, I did not learn for many years of this use by the Nazis to debase and remove all hope from their prisoners.

Instead, I was inspired by it. Because of my ignorance, it had no evil connotations that I knew of.

It was just a resonating expression of the virtue of working hard – a tenet that would be closely associated by most of us to the puritanical ethics that drives much of our society!

’41

Stuart Seaton

Time is getting close for our 75th Reunion. I have been coordinating with Lisla Cowles with the VMI Alumni Association on our plans for our reunion April 18 and 19, 2016. You will get a separate letter giving registration information and schedule of activities, etc. Follow and complete the registration form. Since our number is currently 11 brother rats, there will not be a registration fee.

Please do your best to be with us. By attending, we will have the opportunity to get back and witness the many changes that have taken place at the Institute through these past 75 years.

My best to all in the Great ’41.

In the ongoing spirit of VMI and ’41, Stuart Seaton

’42

Charles B. Miller

Ed Jones died in June and I just found out.

That leaves fewer than 10 of us, with Harry Siebert being the oldest and Fred Love being the youngest.

I emailed Harry about the above, and he confirmed that he was still on the right side of the grass – honored to be the oldest. He reported that Jack Patton was moving to Harrisonburg, Virginia, to

an assisted living facility – address unknown.

I occasionally get a one or two word message from P.X. Geary, but not much news.

In a response to my request for news, Fred Love came through with an interesting reply, which I will copy. “About the only thing we can write about at this age is our health or our descendants, so here goes. You don’t have to publish it. Bad knees and bilateral severely torn rotator cuffs mandate walker dependency. My 12-year-old bovine aortic valve (and 20-year triple bypass) still doing the job. Blessed with remarkable vision – 20/20 left, 20/25 right – with no macular degeneration, glaucoma; healthy retina, etc. So, I read a lot. My hearing aids are less satisfactory for the audio on some television shows. I still live alone in my five-bedroom house – have a lady who prepares me dinner each night and a cleaner every two weeks.

“What makes this worthwhile is a caring family who like to come to Florida often from Tennessee and North Carolina – four children, eight grandchildren and four great-greats, with two more in process. I haven’t been able to utilize my Beech Mountain chalet, where for many years we had mini reunions of Room 448: Gabe Horne, George Esser, Willoughby Williams, Jed Wilson and me. On occasions, we were joined by the McDonoughs and Sieberts. So hang in there, brother rats.”

I visited Jed Wilson and was happy to hear him say he was the healthiest he has been in five years. He says he and five or so of his neighbors from The Hermitage, a retirement home in Richmond, go swimming twice a week and have a great time. Stuart Seaton ’41 has moved to The Hermitage and is a neighbor of Jed’s.

I tried, without success, to contact Bill Baker, who left after our 4th Class year. I talked to him in 2012 when he said he might come back for our reunion that year. He had been the mayor of Portsmouth, Virginia, and was running again. I assume he did not make it this time.

’43

Jeffrey G. Smith

Dear Readers: I am greatly saddened to report the death of our Brother Rat Vince Thomas Nov. 7,

39

Class Notes 2015, in Norfolk, Virginia. Vince was a longtime mayor of Norfolk and very popular. His wife, Betty, was at his side. Vince had been in ill health for several years and confined to a wheelchair. We will all miss him very much.

A great and wonderful classmate.

I spoke ever so briefly to Betty Thomas a few days before about Vince. However, I called at a very poor time. Betty had seemed uncharacteristically anxious to curtail my call; it soon developed that she was concerned either she or I might say something that would inadvertently alarm Vince. My clumsy attempt to chat was simply out of place.

With Vince gone, we are down to 22 survivors in our class (unofficial count). About two squads.

I’ve been plagued with computer crashes in the past several days which have led to distractions and frustrations and lost computer files, among which was a final draft of these new class notes.

Recent days have had me on the brink of chucking all of my class agent duties. But, there is always that duty-anchor holding me back. Here is what I recall from brief chats with some of you.

Dick Catlett and golf – he loves the game!

“Nothing, nothing I have enjoyed as much as golf.” Started playing in 1934. But this year has been a “bad one” for golf as far as Dick was concerned. Many of his golf buddies are “gone,” viz., died. However, Dick has kept in “pretty good shape” with frequent exercise. He loved practicing law, as well (e.g., worked every Saturday), and has missed doing so very much.

Gordon Smith – as planned – carried out his plan to celebrate his 95th birthday with a huge birthday party with almost 95 of his nearest and dearest friends as guests. The “Frank Sinatra” Band provided entertainment. Gordon welcomed his guests with a “half-hour monologue” (Gordon’s words).

As I always do, I again listened in awe to the description of the thrice a week workouts Gordon has in his “weight” room.

Bill Gottwald’s voice was strong and clear when we chatted Oct. 29, 2015. He, as we all have, has lost a step or two. He no longer jogs, for example. But, nonetheless, he takes care of himself and has yet to retire. We talked a bit of politics, regarding which subject we see eye to eye.

Speaking (or writing) of Bill Gottwald always

40

brings to mind his gracious, unheralded generosity to VMI on behalf of our class. My scolding about most of our brother rats has obviously fallen on many deaf ears. Just look at these numbers: For classes of the 1940s at the end of the third quarter of this fiscal year, our class as a whole gave VMI $565,050 – far and away more than our closet competitor’s $26,780. However, only 26.32 percent contributed a penny. Not all of us can contribute as much as Bill Gottwald, but each of us could easily contribute $5.

It is sometimes of interest to look at some past events involving a few of our brother rats of which many other brother rats might not have been aware. Herewith I describe one of the shenanigans in which our Brother Rat Jim Fortson entangled my roommates and me.

Our room as 3rd Class cadets was 335 on the west side of the Old Barracks. It faced the Parade Ground and overlooked Jackson Arch. If one were to walk from J.M. Hall past Jackson Arch, one would see a descending concrete stairwell on the right. The stairs led to the Post Exchange, one level below ground.

Our windows looked straight down to the bottom of that stairwell.

On a bright, sunny, late spring day in 1941, our Brother Rat Jim Fortson burst into our room with a stick of dynamite – a brightly burning fuse attached. All four of us roommates were present and totally surprised. Fortson made straight for our windows, which were fortunately wide-open, and tossed the dynamite down into the PX stairwell.

Unbeknownst to Fortson, 1st Lt. Eddy Arnold ’35 – one of the better regarded tactical officers – was walking his pet fox terrier past Jackson Arch (from J.M. Hall). As luck would have it, Arnold had just reached the PX stairwell when the dynamite exploded.

There was a great swoosh of air upward from the PX stairwell, which tumbled (but did not harm) the small dog.

We roommates wasted no time in vacating our room, in anticipation of a close call to quarters and a stick check. Those did indeed follow, but when they did, we roommates were long gone from the barracks – as was Fortson.

Arnold had no idea of the explosion’s source. Nor did any except Fortson and us four roommates. No one was hurt. No one was reported. We roommates chose to immediately vacate our room and the barracks and

remain silent. Loose lips sink ships.

At our 50th Reunion, I broached the incident with Jim Fortson. He replied that he’d rather forget all about it and changed the subject, as if to say that it was not one of his prouder moments. But, clearly, he had not forgotten. (Jim transferred to, I believe, the University of Texas after our 3rd Class year. However, he kept his ties to VMI. I recall him as a good friend.)

It will be 2016 – next year – when you read these class notes. I fervently wish you and your family a very happy New Year!

’44

Tom L. Peyton Jr.

Members of the class and friends on our mailing list have already received an earlier notification of the death of John Irby’s wife. Margaret Clay Wall Irby of Raleigh died Oct.1, 2015. Margaret was born Oct. 22, 1927, in Norfolk, Virginia. She was the only child of Henry Alden Wall, M.D., and Grace Walker Wall. Shortly after graduating from Longwood College, she and John were married in 1950 in Franktown on the Eastern Shore of Virginia – her family’s home for many years. For the first 10 years of their marriage, they lived in Norfolk, where their first three children were born before they moved to Raleigh in 1960.

We are told that Margaret cherished her life in Raleigh and felt blessed by wonderful friendships for over 55 years. Included in this category have been the many members of the VMI family, as Margaret and John participated in many alumni events and activities. Notable among these were the hosting of social gatherings for Class of 1944 members at their family’s home at Figure Eight Island, North Carolina.

In addition to her husband, John, Margaret is survived by her three children: Grace Irby Robbins and her husband, Charles Austin Robbins Jr.; Margaret Irby Clement and her, husband Whitington Whiteside Clement; son, John Poindexter Irby IV, and his wife, Amie Dixon Irby; and nine grandchildren.

The Class of 1944 has made a gift to the VMI Foundation in Margaret’s memory. She was a warm and gracious friend to many of us, and she will be missed by all who had the distinct pleasure of knowing her.

Judy Beam and I recently spent a week in San

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Francisco, looking for a temporary change in day-to-day sights and sounds. Separately, we had been there a few times in years gone by and thought it time to update our experience. Notable for me was a repeat of passing under the Golden Gate Bridge into San Francisco Bay, done initially in July 1946 for the first time after uninterrupted military service in Europe and the western Pacific. Learning of our plans, Bob Smothers (Class of 1944 travel expert) suggested that we consider staying at the Marine Memorial Club. With the help of Bob and club staff member, retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Christopher Starling ’88, we were able to do just that. It was a perfect venue for us that materially added to the pleasure of the trip. There is a website for the club for those who are curious.

Part of these notes is a photo of Dick Niess, who wrote: “After seeing all of the photos of Bob Smothers, I thought you might want to see this one of me at the gym wearing VMI shorts that I acquired shortly after graduation. And

they still fit, although the waistband was tight.”

Dick works out at his local gym twice a week using an exercise routine developed by him and his late wife, Ann. He continues the routine in dedication to her.

Sophie Parker wrote from her home in Milwaukee about her long friendship with June Turner, wife of Bobby Turner ’47. The Turners moved to Milwaukee many years ago, not long after the Parkers. Sophie and June became instant friends and became partners in an interior design business. It was named Designing Women, well before the famous TV show by the same name. They ran their business for 25 years and had a delightful time. Bobby was a Shakespearean scholar and head of the English Department of the University of WisconsinMilwaukee. June, née Bridges, was one of the beauties picked by Bing Crosby for the 1948 VMI Bomb. Now, by coincidence, the two widows live in the same retirement home – St. John’s on the Lake – and have their own little VMI reunions frequently, Sophie said.

I had nice phone conversations with Harold Lockwood, Meade Bell and Jean Wilhelm.

No special news, just chit-chat, but always great to stay in touch.

Thanks to Nell Watt and Chrys Eickelberg for notes of appreciation and support.

With the end of VMI’s fiscal year June 30, 2015, I found that 12 of our brother rats made gifts to the VMI Agencies (Foundation, Keydet Club, etc.). That is a 47 percent participation rate; one that we should be able to significantly improve on in FY 2016. It is worth noting that 13 of our Class of 1944 ladies made gifts during the same FY15 period. Many thanks to those who gave and encouragement to those who didn’t. VMI needs support from all of us.

’45 Class of 1944: Richard Niess, age 92, wearing shorts he acquired shortly after graduation. Class Agent Tom Peyton commented, “His excellent condition is the result of a dedicated physical exercise program, and his VMI shorts – acquired shortly after graduation – still fit, albeit with a somewhat snug waistband.”

2016-Issue 1

Class of 1945: Jess Reed standing at the newly unveiled class plaque. agent for many years and one of my roommates for the two years (1941-42) we had at VMI before we reported for duty at our chosen Army departments. Dish went in the Army Air Corps; Sam Walker went to West Point; and Butch Robinson was 4F and went to Duke, I believe. I was in the Cavalry, and so I went to Fort Riley, Kansas.”

And although, as he said, “unfortunately we have lost Butch and Sam,” Vic also remembered so many very special times over the years: “When Sam was the superintendent at VMI for

William Quarles

As these notes were about to go to press, we got an email from Vic Bray. Vic and his wife, P.J. (Phyllis Jeanne), had just visited VMI roommate Hugh “Dish” Dischinger in Gloucester, Virginia.

Vic told us how fondly he remembers his roommates and their times on the fourth stoop and in the world beyond. He said, “Hugh was our class

Class of 1945: Bob Allen, left, and John D. Williams at the Tuesday night class dinner.

41

Class Notes

Class of 1945: The class and their families at a luncheon at the Jolly Ox during the reunion. nine years, the four of us and wives were often guests and enjoyed our visits. We continued our meetings at class reunions. Dish was the only one of us that returned to VMI after the war was over. P.J. and I were married in Manhattan, Kansas, in July 1944, and I didn’t think it was possible to come back with a wife, so I finished college at Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan.”

Cary Esser wrote to tell us of a VMI project in the history department that he is part of. Twentysome cadets in the World War II history class taught by Col. Bradley Coleman ’95 are interviewing men who were cadets during the war.

Each cadet is talking with one alumnus as part of a term project. We’ll be reporting more on that project in the next issue.

Memories continue to flow in from our reunion last spring. Karen Redwine reported that the event was wonderful in bringing back fond memories of Bucky’s years at VMI and more. She especially enjoyed the visit to Stonewall Jackson’s

Class of 1945: Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62 greeted Jim Morgan, left, and Bob Allen at the Monday night class reunion dinner. All photos for the Class of 1945 supplied by Jess Reed.

42

home on Washington Street – the only home the VMI professor-turned-Confederate general ever owned. While walking in the gardens, she said she immediately thought of Bucky working in his gardens: “He had a passion for gardening.”

Karen was also instantly taken back when she saw the settee and armchairs in the living room. “Bucky’s maternal grandparents had the exact furniture, which dates back to the 1850s to 1860s,” she noted, recalling how the delicate furniture was carved with grapes and other fruit. “Bucky was so proud to have this furniture passed down in his family.” She emphasized how he always spoke of how deeply ingrained VMI’s values and experiences were in him and how much it had meant to him for the rest of his life. For her, the reunion as a whole was “full of recollections of Bucky and his life at VMI.” We report with much regret that we heard of deaths from two ’45 families. Mrs. Lee Bowman, wife of deceased classmate Lee Bowman, has died. Mrs. Walter Butler III, wife of deceased BR Walter Butler, also has died.

It’s a great help to us, standing in as your class agent in the class notes department, to hear your news and pass it on. Please get in touch with us – Billy and Kathleen Quarles – here at the Class of ’45 computer desk. We hope everyone had safe and happy winter holidays – send us your family news and your ’45 recollections!

’46

William A. Eliason

By now, you will have received my end of the year letter including the final plans for the reunion.

Right now, as this is written in November 2015, I don’t have all of the information I need to advise you of our plans.

I have received no info from anyone about the class since my last notes, and if anything comes my way, I will have included it in the letter referred to above, which you already have.

I hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday season.

In the bonds, Bill

’47

Gus Robbins

The old saying, “No news is good news,” holds true today, since I have no deaths to report in these quarterly notes to the class. Conversely, the bad news is that I have very little new news to report, since I am not hearing from the members of Class of ’47. Come on, you guys and gals, you must be doing something to share with us.

I have been thinking about how our class was split up by service in World War II, so I will share a tale maybe everyone is not familiar with. My 4th Class year roommates were Al Smith from Norfolk, Virginia; Bill Carper from Buchanan, West Virginia; and Harold “Bully” Butterworth from Hopewell, Virginia (my hometown, also). Smith and Carper had both just graduated from Fishburne Military Academy, so they knew something of military life. None of us had any knowledge of the VMI system, so we all learned the hard way. About the second month we were in the Rat Line, the

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 1st Class cadets (all eight or 10 of them) called for a step-off by the rats. Our room collected all the newspapers we could find and started a small bonfire on our stoop. Bully was the assigned room orderly that week, and one of the guard sentinels saw this fire and charged Bully with “starting fire in barracks.” The following day, Bully had to report to the commandant (Col. John Fray ’908) to answer this report. After returning salutes, Col. Fray said, “Mr. Butterworth, Union General Hunter tried 80 years ago to burn down VMI barracks, and he did not succeed, and we are not going to let you do it now!” Bully received 10 weeks confinement to barracks, 10 demerits and two penalty tours.

I think that was the only step-off our class had during our 4th Class year. The VMI way!

It was great to hear some of our BRs are still traveling. I caught Mac and Joan Davis just leaving home for a visit to Florida. I also had a good phone chat with Jim Willson who – with his wife, Carol – had just returned from two weeks in France, where they visited the Normandy beaches and Paris. Jim said it takes longer to recover from a lengthy trip than it used to, sort of like his golf game: “Not what it used to be!” Having great success phoning brother rats gave me the impetus to continue on, so I caught Ben McCarley, too. He and Alice don’t do much traveling except for family events like weddings, baptisms, etc. Fortunately, Alice’s vision has stabilized over these last two years, and she gets around just fine.

I did have a good letter from Paul English ’73 – whose dad was P.X. English ’49C, our brother rat – reporting that he and Caroline had moved from Severna Park, Maryland, to Greenville, South Carolina, in their retirement. P.X. was the superintendent for the big Conowingo Power Station just north of Baltimore, and Jane and I used to visit P.X. and Cyn up there since our kids were about the same ages. Paul’s wife, Caroline, is the daughter of our BR Sam Hairston and dear, departed Lib. Bettie Jacobsen, widow of BR Ted, made her move to Westminster Canterbury Retirement Complex in Richmond, Virginia, Nov. 11.

Her new address is 1500 Westbrook Avenue, Apt #2109, Richmond, VA 23227. She would welcome notes from VMI friends or visits from those in the area. The new phone number is 804-200-1300.

The leaves are turning in Virginia, and we are

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enjoying beautiful fall days, but we all know the wintery days of January and February will be here before we know it. I hope each of you had pleasant Thanksgivings and Christmases. Hopefully you were inspired to send us a Christmas note with some news of you and your family.

Best to all, Gus

’48A

Dale E. Wykoff

Gilly Williamson experienced a bout of ill health and has been moved from his regular retirement quarters to assisted living. We all hope he’ll be feeling better soon.

I have not heard more from Mike Calhoun since his recent move to the Bay Oaks retirement center in Miami, Florida. Please give me a call, Mike.

Irene Sadler’s son, John, put me in touch with his mother, who has been in skilled nursing care. I spoke with her, and although now a wheelchair user, she is in good spirits and asked me to say hello to all our brother rats.

It is always good to talk with John and Barbara Trumbo, who remain in good health.

Finally, my life here in Asheville, North Carolina, moves smoothly and quickly. Both of my kids are not far away and keep their eye on the “old man.” The Class of 1948A now consists of only five of us out of the 52 who matriculated in February 1944.

’48B

Lionel T. Wolford

Last June, George Ramsey phoned and told me that Lou Castellano could not continue as class agent because of macular degeneration.

He asked me to take on the job, and I did, guided by emotion. (I love VMI, ’48B, and George and Harriet Ramsey.) I accepted, and I will do the best that I can for as long as I can.

Doug Hamner reached out to me and jokingly said, “You are the only one in the class left who can still read and write the class notes.”

Doug is getting along fine, health-wise, but

must use a magnifying glass to read.

I called Lou and thanked him for his lengthy service as class agent. In 1944, when Lou and I were rats, he was affectionately known as “the nose.” Like most of our class, Lou was called into World War II service at the end of our 4th Class year. My next contact with Lou was at the VMI versus Army game in 1978. We had drinks together at the officer’s club before the game. As usual, he was talkative and enthusiastic regarding VMI. As class agent, Lou always worked tirelessly tracking down brother rats who had long been lost or forgotten. Many in our class were only at VMI for a year, so getting in touch with the missing was an arduous task.

Lou also contacted ’48B widows. Early this year, he reported on a telephone visit with Libby Danforth, widow of Brother Rat Clarence Danforth. Clarence, along with Dick Eichhorn and Willie Dick Parker, were my roommates during our 1st Class year, 1946-47. A few weeks before Thanksgiving, Clarence told us he was inviting his “best” girlfriend from the University of Maryland for the Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University game and Thanksgiving dances. The next week, he reported that his girl was coming and bringing along her roommate. Clarence tapped me for the blind date. We were to meet the girls in Roanoke at the stadium parking lot shortly before game time. Much happened before the girls showed up. The night before the game, the Corps participated in an emotional pep rally with torches and fireworks. After Taps, the entire Corps deployed in defensive position around the post to repel obnoxious Hokie invaders bent on causing mischief and damage with paint. The attack was totally repulsed, and one Hokie was captured and imprisoned in the Washington Arch guard room. The other Hokies stayed within shouting distance until early morning, when they eventually melted away. As the Corps made its way back to the barracks in the wee hours of the morning, Brother Rat Robert Pagliaro was killed in an accidental explosion. By the next morning, everyone’s mood changed from excitement and defiance to deep gloom. Nevertheless, we boarded the buses and proceeded to Roanoke to meet our dates. As soon as I saw them, my gloomy mood changed completely. My blind date was a gorgeous redhead named Libby Epply. Libby’s father was the athletic director of

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Class Notes the University of Maryland and the commissioner of the Southern Conference. The Southern Conference, in those days, included Maryland, VPI, VMI, Duke, North Carolina, South Carolina, Wake Forest University and more. Libby was not only good looking, but she was also charming, smart and witty. We had a great four day weekend. Danforth and his date always seemed to be arguing. I made up my mind that I needed to see Libby again at VMI. Christmas break and pressing academic problems during the new year put seeing Libby again soon on hold. Before I knew it, Danforth ditched his old girlfriend, stole Libby from me and married her as quickly as he could. Everything worked out wonderfully for both Libby and Clarence. Thanks to Lou for giving me this reminiscence.

I talked to Chi Mills recently. As we all know, Chi was an All-American football player and a member of the VMI Sports Hall of Fame. Since we were both from Louisiana, our paths crossed soon after our arrival at VMI in June 1944. Chi probably has made every ’48B reunion since graduation. I know he was a fixture at all five I have attended. Together, we made a video of the 40th Reunion using Walter Vannoy’s camera.

One of my fondest memories occurred during summer break 1946. Chi and Adelaide and my date and myself visited the world famous Pat O’Brien’s bar in the New Orleans French Quarter. Chi still lives in his house in Richmond, alone now. He misses Adelaide a lot. He sounded great to me. He says he still does his own yardwork.

Hisson Malachi Mills III ’83 and daughter live nearby and help when needed. To his knowledge, his old roommate, Al Loth, is the only other brother rat living in the Richmond area.

’49A

James Harrington

I called Joe Fil. He is handling his health issues and working around Suzie’s health problems.

They both need our prayers. Send them a hug – J.F. Fil, 1 Hayfields Road, Portola Valley, CA 94028. 650-851-8298.

This update is from Charlie Tiller: “Joe told me that he is hopeful that he can help Susie at home.

He is going to give it a try. I certainly hope this works for both of them. We are trying to pick up

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the traveling pieces and record some more miles.

If our plans work, we will go to Sevierville, Tennessee, and visit a few restaurants and shops. The restaurants will please Nancy, because someone else will cook, and the shopping will confirm my feelings that her full recovery is around the corner. Our Austin, Texas, branch has asked us to come for Christmas, but we are still considering this. Even flying has become a hassle unless it is nonstop. It is always great when we can have family around. The rest of our plans are in our thoughts and memories.” (Editor’s Note: Before going to press, we learned the sad news of the passing of Mr. Charlie Tiller. His Taps entry will appear in the next issue of the Review.)

Herb Johnston writes: “We hope you are having some good fall weather. Nothing has changed very much for our family since our last write in.

Jeanne is about the same and does get out a little, and I am OK. As for Columbus, it’s fall, and football is the big thing. We have had season tickets for Ohio State home games for the last 60 years and for the first time sold them. It’s a lot easier to watch TV. Tickets for prime games are $150. We keep hoping that Jeanne continues to improve.

Trick or treat night is tomorrow, and that’s always fun. We had 60 kids last year. We hope you had a good summer and that the holidays will be really great for you and your family.”

Allen Penniman knows how much we need reports from our “happy few.” Here’s his current report. “When I received the faithful Class Agent Harrington’s request for the report on ‘adventures,’ immediately I realized that the time between this report and the last report on ‘adventures’ was much shorter than before. Since there are so few ‘adventures’ to tell you about, I will let you in on a secret Joanie and I use to reduce our travels and yet bring our children and grandchildren to Baton Rouge to visit us. This is much simpler since travel is so difficult, and the young ones do not seem to mind it at all.

“The solution requires a winning football team such as the Louisiana State University Tigers, season tickets and a parking pass, which I have had for years, and maybe even an airplane ticket for those who live far away. Obviously, I am talking about grandchildren, for it is such a treat to have them come for a catch-up visit. Before the football season starts, I put out a list of the LSU home games and their schedule. This letter goes to all of my ‘mature’ grandchildren. The requests come in, and Joanie and I sort through them and

pick the ones we most want to see or did not see last year. It works well, and with seven home games, we are able to accommodate most of them who are interested in football. So, in they come, arriving Friday and spending the weekend with us. We can accommodate about four each week, and this works out perfectly. They come in small groups and are here long enough for us to get in meaningful visits. It also gives us a bit of time to check on their grades and be sure each is progressing in an orderly manner toward college graduation. Joanie and I are blessed with many, many grandchildren, and this is our plan to keep in touch with them and have them in our home for a fine visit. Try it ... it really works.

“This is all for now, as Joanie and I begin to prepare bed, food and wine for those who come to visit as the LSU Tigers take on the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers. It is not the best game of the year, but the grandchildren will be with us, and that is what is important. Joanie and I send our wishes for good health to each and all.”

So, for “Class Agent Harrington,” it’s the end of October, the end of the summer season at our “Camp Chaos” and since we don’t have access to the kind of winning teams that Allen has, we’re probably closed down for visitors the year. I can close the swimming pool for the season, shut down the visitor wing of our home, and take time clearing weeds and summer growth. With the arrival of Issue 4 of the Alumni Review, that’s done for the year. We will watch our winning basketball teams (Duke and Carolina) throughout the winter. By February, I should have received enough Christmas cards from those of you who don’t write often to make a better set of notes for next time. And by the way, I should tell you that I have a new great-grandson! Benjamin Ferrari, born in August, brings us up to three “greats.”

With luck and good health, perhaps they’ll all visit next summer. You can come, too.

’49B

Dan Smaw

These notes cover the period early August to late October 2015.

I had a call from Joe Spitler on matriculation day saying he had watched it and found it to be interesting, but not too much like ours. The big change to me is that all the parents are there. I

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes don’t remember any parents being there when I signed in, but I guess there were a few. This year the whole process was on the Internet, and I heard from George Wolfe, Benny Harmon, Ed Watling, Tom and Virginia Cooke, and Max Feinman saying they had watched it.

George mentioned it was very scripted, with speeches, military formation and march out complete with band. Virginia said she did not see many females in cadre. Max said we signed in and disappeared into Washington Arch.

In early September, I received a call from Marilyn Sweeney informing me that her father, Bill Hawkins, died in April, one day after his 88th birthday. His wife, Doris, three children and five grandchildren were with him. She also sent a copy of his obit which was written by her son. It was forwarded to the Alumni Review office. We send our sincere condolences to Doris and other relatives on their great loss.

I talked with Ding Patton in early September.

He had talked with Vaughn Maxwell, who still retains a good sense of humor, and Joe Spitler.

He noted Joe is not doing as much walking as formerly; I can really relate to that.

Liz Lauerman called to let me know that

Class of 1949B: Charles B. Upshaw Jr. sporting a new VMI cap and jacket, which he planned to wear to the VMI versus Mercer University football game Oct. 24, 2015.

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Country had a bad fall and was now living in an assisted living facility. Boyd Guttery called in October to say he was going to visit Country.

On Oct. 13, both of them called. Boyd said the facility was very nice, and Country was doing pretty well. In talking with Country, he said he is working hard to get strong enough to get around better. He talked well, and he sounded to be in very good spirits. I hope it continues.

Ding wrote a long and newsy email in early October, which I greatly appreciate since there are many of you I never hear from. He and Nobbie went on a short cruise in October commemorating their 65th anniversary. He had a lengthy conversation with Boyd Guttery, where they reminisced about the good old days at the Institute. Joe Spitler called him and said he and Shirley were doing OK. Ding, Tommy Altizer and Braxton Green ’50B had lunch before Tommy left for Florida Oct. 31. His daughter was driving him down.

The Pattons’ daughter, Cindy, gave them a reception for their 65th wedding anniversary.

Attendees were mostly family and church friends. After that, their kids took them to their favorite Staunton restaurant for a great family dinner. They planned to attend the Institute Society Dinner in Lexington on Founders Day. Their son, Steve ’85, has been spending a lot of time in Saudi Arabia, where he is in charge of a $2 billion air base for the Saudi government that his employer, the Army Corps of Engineers, is doing.

I had a short note from Charlie Upshaw’s son, Charlie, with a picture of our Charlie in his new VMI cap and jacket to wear to the VMI versus Mercer University game, which was played Oct. 24 in Macon, Georgia. VMI won – too bad Charlie has not attended more games this year, making our record better.

Bill Sweeney called Oct. 26 to tell me that Bob Massie died that day. Bill did not know the cause of death. I called the Alumni Review office, and they will get a copy of the obit when it is printed in Lynchburg. Our condolences go out to his family on their great loss.

Greg Nelson wrote a long email on the 26th to bring me up to date on his activities. He and Kitty went to Nantucket in June to prepare their place for tenants – it rented for eight weeks which is good. They were back in September to shut down for the winter, then to North Carolina to baby-sit for two weeks. They were back

home for a week, then off to Hilton Head for a week of good weather. They planned to attend the VMI versus Wofford College game Saturday, Oct. 31, and tailgate on the Parade Ground with Buddy Marshall, George Wolfe and Nux Enochs, as well as Greg’s two sons, daughter-in-law and two grandsons. They hope to run into the Dooleys somewhere. They are still eating tomatoes from a late planting, along with radishes, beets, lettuce and a couple of other things.

I talked with Lon and Doris Walter the 26th.

They had recently returned from a family reunion on the Gulf Coast which their daughters took them to. They are doing OK but still need rain, even though they recently had about 4 inches. The Texas flooding has not affected them.

Harv Bradley and I had a lengthy conversation on the 26th which recalled a lot of long ago things, as well as current ones. The good news to me was that Harv is playing golf two or three times a week. It is always good to hear that we still have BRs who are able to get out for exercise.

Our son and daughter-in-law took us to St. Simon’s Island, Georgia, for a week in October. The weather could not have been any better – sunshine every day. St. Simon’s has an excellent walking beach, which I wish I could have taken better advantage of.

On Oct. 28, I talked with Vaughn Maxwell.

He said it is really a struggle to get back physically to where he was a few years ago, but he keeps trying. He can no longer read since he cannot focus, and this is a big disappointment, because he loved to read. The Maxwells will have a grandson going to The Citadel this fall; his father is a Citadel graduate. Vaughn sounded good, and we recalled several longago things, so our memories are still functioning pretty well.

Thanks to all who have contributed this year.

God Bless America, VMI and ’49B.

’49C

Haywood France

Editor’s Note: The Class of 1949C is no longer submitting notes. Haywood France remains the point of contact for the class.

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Class Notes

’50A

Bill Moore

B.J. and Kenny Stagg had a great trip to Alaska this summer in spite of “difficulties” with their airline. They left Richmond fully expecting to fly to Chicago, Illinois, on the first leg of their journey. Instead, because of plane problems, they ended up in Cleveland, Ohio. By the time the plane problems were solved, they were late in arriving in Seattle, Washington, and their cruise ship had already left Vancouver. To make matters worse, their baggage was in Denver, Colorado, of all places. Kenny told me that he wasn’t about to start out for Alaska without his clothes. Finally, their baggage caught up with them, and they continued their way.

Otherwise, they had a wonderful trip. They went up the Inland Passage to Anchorage and then had a nice long land trip that included the recently renamed Denali that we all knew as Mount McKinley. No, they didn’t climb it, but they saw it in all its grandeur and explored the park around it. Their tour included Fairbanks, and they visited Beverly and Syd Stealey. Both Kenny and Syd tell me that they had a wonderful several hours together. Syd said that they’re coping with the downsizing of their living quarters, although he misses the plane work and rebuilding he used to do so much of. We both agree that, at our ages, we need to be as active and productive as possible, or we’ll lose the ability to do what we can do. They still own their former home with shop, tools and working space. He recently took on a project to recover an air frame with fabric, which seems amazing to me. The loss of strength in my own hands is my limiting factor, and I’m pleased to know that he can still do that kind of work.

Jackie (Dick) Martin has spent a hot, dry, smoky summer at her home in Spokane, Washington. Recent significant rains have alleviated many of these problems, and she in now enjoying fine weather without even a freeze yet (Oct. 28). No other real news. She feels good and continues to enjoy good health. She’s hoping to be traveling again next summer.

I know many of you remember Bob “Mort” Massie ’49B. He died here in Lynchburg Oct. 26. He and our Brother Rat Hank McWane

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were particularly close and indulged in many nefarious escapades together. His family requested that any memorials be made to the American Cancer Society or the VMI Foundation. Speaking of Hank McWane, I saw Nancy McWane at Bob’s wake. As usual, she looks great and is doing well. She hadn’t any groundbreaking news, but that is a good thing for most of us.

Joanne (Ed) Miller reported that she feels good and is well. Her grandson, Eric, graduated from Clemson this year and is doing a lot of coaching to fill in until he finds a more permanent job. Granddaughter Rebecca is a sophomore at Virginia Tech, and time marches on.

Nan Hudgins told me that she and Elliott are keepin’ on keepin’ on like most of us. They are now great-grandparents. I told Nan she doesn’t sound that old! I know she doesn’t look like the stereotypical great-grandmother. They are still enjoying themselves in North Carolina and have a routine that mixes pleasure with doctor’s appointments. Sounds like most of us.

If Debra and I ever get to the beach in South Carolina this fall, I hope we can stop and see Nan and Elliott. Perhaps get to the Sanitary Fish Market in Morehead City for dinner.

Judy Mooney told me that Ralph had a kind of rough month (October). He had a reoccurring fever every two or three days interspersed with normal days. So far, no cause has been found. The doctors have eliminated the usual suspects. They seem to think the problem is in his lungs but no sign of pneumonia or a tumor.

I’ll keep tabs on him.

Charlotte (Harold/Loggie) Logsdon is planning on visiting a friend in Florida over Christmas. She is doing well and is just as full of herself as ever. It’s always a joy to chat with her. She enjoys life and people so much. She and my Debra had such a good time together at our reunion. You’d have thought that they were old, old friends. I’m working on the three of us getting together here in Virginia next May or June.

Things just keep hopping with Debra and me and our families. Anne’s and my son, David Moore ’86, and his Jennifer are building the sixth Moore’s Country Store in the Lynchburg area and hope this one will be open sometime in the spring. Busy, busy, busy. All five of the others are going gangbusters. My parents were always so excited with what Anne and I were

doing with the original store and one expansion. I wish they could see what’s going on now! I love to watch David and Jennifer but am glad not to be doing it.

Gene Witcher’s heart problem (aortic valve stenosis) has stabilized, and his doctor doesn’t recommend surgery yet. In early August, he had a disaster of a different kind. He was living in a house owned by his son, Lee, and the dishwasher heating element stuck on and destroyed the house. Gene was gone at the time and, of course, was not injured. That’s the good news.

The bad news is that he lost almost all of his personal possessions, including his Bomb and lifelong collection of photos and letters. I have an extra 1950 Bomb somewhere and plan to send that, along with copies of my pictures of our time together in barracks. I know he’d greatly appreciate copies of any class pictures or other pictures of class members or groups that you may have. His address is 22 N. Circlewood Glen, The Woodlands, Spring, TX 77381. It’s terrible to lose those pictures that represent so many cherished memories.

’50B

Robert White

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 1950B.

’51

John Ross

This note covers the period Aug. 13 to Oct. 28, 2015, and is basically in sequential order.

Jane Catlin called from Columbus, Ohio. She has the usual health problems that come with age but is still active and able to drive. She still pursues her painting and reported that her two sons, who live nearby, are very supportive and visit regularly.

August 20 is our birthday trifecta – Jake Wamsley, Win Bober and my Marie. I reached Jake with birthday wishes. He is doing well and considering downsizing. We had a long discussion of the negative position of the country’s finances.

I left birthday wishes for Win in Omaha, Nebraska, and then reached him a few days later. He is in good physical condition but reported that he

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes her of the communication problem and provided end of August in which he reported, “I am dohad just picked up Betty after a hospital stay.

Completing the trifecta, my two daughters and ing well,” and that he and Cindy had moved to her with contact information. We had a nice visit, I had a belated birthday celebration for Marie at a smaller house in the same community. He also and she sounds great – staying very active with home. reported that he had talked with George Maxwell good friends.

Bounce Carstens reported that Sally is out of Pat Holloway called Marie on the 20th to exand was sorry to note the passing of Vic Parks. the hospital and slowly improving. tend birthday greetings. She had just returned Jim also asked for help in contacting Vic’s family.

I wished Fred Watson in Weatherfrom a family reunion and is doing well. Marie Ambrose called to report ford, Texas, a happy birthday. He rethat Homer died Aug. 2 after a long ported that he had back surgery and is illness. I notified VMI and made a noncommittal about making our 65th memorial contribution in Homer’s Reunion. memory. I then extended condolences Marie learned in a call with Money verbally and in writing to Marie.

Hill that both she and Jack are doI learned in a call that Jean Robining well.

On Sept. 9, I left birthday greetings son is contending with a painful back for the Egg on both his home and cellcondition. Paul, who is doing well, phones. Late that afternoon, Gerry was looking forward to an Honor called, and I was able to personally Flight Sept. 3 to Washington, D.C., to tour various war memorials and then wish him a happy 90th birthday. He is return to Wisconsin on the same day. doing well and is quite active despite I left birthday greetings for John his serious medical problem. Gerry, Evans and then subsequently reached ever optimistic, even likes the chances him in Greenville, South Carolina. He of the Institute’s football team. and Ann are doing well.

I told Gerry how happy I was to be I failed to reach Paul Shrader in Penable to personally wish him well on this momentous occasion. I also insacola, Florida, with birthday wishes.

Class of 1955: Jerry Eggleston, left, celebrated his 90th birthday I failed to reach Rose Marie Anson, with Sal Vitale ’61 offering congratulations. formed him quite a few of the brother rats wanted to be remembered to him Harry Bailey, Phil Barton, Henry Bryan, Willard Hays and Patty Blackand that we expect him to head us in well but did leave messages. an Old Yell at our 65th in April.

Henry Pitot in Madison, WisconI missed contacting George Maxwell and Jack Evans but left birthday sin, reported that Julie still has mediwishes on their answering machines. cal problems. He inquired of Maurice King.

I reached Johnny Lyden in Mobile, Alabama, and wished him a happy I did reach Mila Bernich in Biloxi, birthday. We had a very pleasant visit Mississippi. She still occupies the down memory lane. Johnny would like same house where we had a mini reto make the 65th but has a travel probunion in the ’90s.

Gracelyn Parks returned my phone lem, as he has macular degeneration. inquiry and spoke with Marie. She rePhil Burton called from Garden ported that she is doing OK. Grove, California, and we had a nice Class of 1951: Paul Robinson in front of the Korean War Memorial I reached Maureen Leck in Rock- in Washington, D.C., during a tour sponsored by the Old Glory visit. He is doing well but is not sure about the April reunion. Phil related ville Centre, New York, and we had a Flight organization Sept. 3, 2015. to me a story I was not aware of. At long visit. She keeps busy with some Jim’s note left me confused, as I had last heard the dedication of the Marshall Arch in May 20 odd grandchildren. She commented on the picture in the last Alumni Review (2015-Issue 3) from Cindy, as I reported in a prior note, that Jim 1951, as we were preparing to assemble on the was in a health facility under hospice care with bricks, he noted the general standing alone. of our Biloxi mini reunion, which included Bill.

Lewy Body disease, a degenerative disorder. I As Phil tells it, he went over to Gen. George I reached Jack Lowden in Williamsburg to distherefore reached Cindy, and she confirmed that C. Marshall ’901 and introduced himself. He cuss our 65th Reunion.

Jim was now at home but still under hospice care. then shook hands with the general.

Sam Scott called twice to bring me current conI finally reached Steve Meader in Reston, cerning his proposed trip to visit Bill Lauerman I told Cindy that, as requested, I would inform Gracelyn Parks of the communication problem.

Virginia, to wish him a very belated birthday. ’49B, who is ailing.

I immediately called Gracelyn Parks, advised Steve is good for the 65th.

I received a note from Jim Marshall toward the

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Class Notes I likewise reached Jack Evans in Virginia Beach with belated birthday wishes. I learned that he and Joyce had been sojourning in Las Vegas, which accounted for my failure to reach him on his birthday. Jack claimed he came back without losing any money. They both are doing well.

Then on the same day, I finally reached Frans Kasteel with belated birthday greetings. He had been summering in the Adirondacks and reported he is doing well. Frans sounds good for our 65th.

Paul Robinson sent a long note and a copy of the itinerary for the Old Glory Honor Flight Sept. 3, 2015. During this trip to Washington, D.C., from Appleton, Wisconsin, the veterans toured all the war memorials. Paul described it as a “great day.” His flight was composed of 88 vets, and escorts (volunteers) assigned to each vet paid their own way. Paul reported that the Old Glory Honor Flight organization has provided similar trips to Washington for over 7,000 vets and counting.

I wished Earl Patton in New Iberia, Louisiana, a happy birthday. He reported that he and family are in good health. Earl hopes to make the 65th and will try to convince Jimmy Gonzalez to join him.

George Cohen called from Hilton Head, South Carolina, to let me know that Sam Scott had been hospitalized. He also reported that he was scheduled for a hernia repair. I reached Sam at home, where he is most fortunate to be under the rotating care of his two daughters.

Sam reported he had some kind of problem that left him with a weakened hand and voice and a facial strain. He states he is improving daily and expects to lead an Old Yell at our 65th. Sam also reported that Bill Lauerman ’49B has a serious medical problem as related by Bill’s wife, Liz. I reached Jim Enochs in Jackson, Mississippi, with birthday wishes. He and Jean are well, and Jim reported that he had been hiking in the West with one of his daughters. Jim seems likely for our 65th and had been discussing it with his roommate, Bounce Carstens.

When I checked with George Cohen, I learned that he had a successful hernia procedure.

I wished Roger Little in St. Louis a happy birthday. He and Betty are both doing well. He expects to make the 65th and plans to be accompanied by a daughter who has never visited the Institute.

I extended birthday wishes to Dick McFarlin

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in Lakeland, Florida. He is doing well, with the usual age related complaints. He inquired about Fred Anson and Sid Hannah. Dick intends to make the 65th Reunion.

I wished Bill Caldwell in Daleville, Virginia, a happy birthday. He and Joanna are doing well in their retirement community, but Bill does not expect to make the 65th due to physical limitations.

In mid-October, I left birthday wishes for Phil Barton in Garden Grove, California.

Once again, I wish to call your attention to the two outstanding publications of the Institute – the Alumni Review (four issues a year) and the Institute Report (eight issues). These two publications will keep you current on the activities of our alma mater.

Keep the news coming and mark your calendars for April 18 and 19, 2016 – our 65th Reunion.

Marie and I wish you and yours a happy and blessed holiday season.

Semper Fi, Jack

’52

James M. Mecredy

Zeke Finney wrote to bring me up-to-date on some of his and other brother rats’ activities.

He had dinner with Jim and Carol Wiley and Barbara and Army Wellford. They are all doing well but have age problems like we all do.

Sarah and Zeke went to Lynchburg and had lunch with Joe and Langhorne McCarthy, Skip Nay, Mitch Mays, and Bill Massie. They are doing well with the exception of Joe with some problem in his back. He can’t lift his head, so he is looking at the floor all the time. He uses a walker, but his mind is sharp. All of the others look good. Bill and Mitch are trying to decide their next move; they are still in their homes.

Zeke and Sarah left Lynchburg and went to Rocky Mount to spend the night with Suzanne Cooper. She is doing great. Zeke, Andy and Bill Ruffin continue their monthly Old Corp golf matches. Bill has found a girlfriend companion and is very happy. Zeke reports that he and Sarah are doing well, and they appreciate having good health at this stage of life.

David White has been hospitalized with a stroke. David is confined to a wheelchair in an assisted living facility and very, very weak. He

has lost a great deal of short-term memory and gets confused about where he is. He is also very deaf. We need to pray for him.

We also need to pray for Walt Ames. I have heard from Cecil Welch, Zeke Finney, Ray Gilchrist and Sophie-Ann White (Walter’s sister) that Walt has been in health care at Westminster Canterbury in Virginia Beach. He is recovering from a leg injury but will not be able to go back to his apartment.

Ted Ball wrote to me about taking the Honor Flight. Ted encouraged me to sign up for the Honor Flight several years ago. He and Kitty are well and traveling a lot to family reunions, Mississippi River trip and visiting Anna Wells (Bruce Wells’ widow).

Ann Carman (Lee Rogers’ widow) wrote that she and her husband have moved to a retirement community. She is glad they did this while they have the energy to lift boxes, resettle and get to know new people.

Foy Braswell ’53 wrote that he was sad to read about the death of Charlie Shoaf. He requested Mary Shoaf’s address so he could send some pictures and a note. Charlie Frank Gorham and he roomed together at a house while attending graduate school at Purdue University (chemistry). Others who attended Purdue graduate school were his brother rat, Otis Fu ’53, and Freddy Anson ’51. Otis was killed in an auto accident while there. They had some good times when they weren’t studying. Charlie came home (New Jersey) with him during one of the holidays and they toured New York City. Jack Frankeberger was his first battery commander when he entered the Army at Fort Sill. He kept in touch and visited with Jack until his death. Foy also noticed that our classes are rapidly moving closer to the front of the Alumni Review.

Ann Edelmann wrote that Walt Ames is doing much better, but mentally he still has good days and bad. He is not able to return to independent living and will probably move to an assisted living floor. He is having some difficulty accepting his condition, but hopefully after the move things will get better! So, Walt needs our prayers.

Henry Nanninga called asking about David White. I related the news that I have received.

Henry is OK except some difficulty remembering, which may be normal for all of us at this age. Henry is continuing to live with neuropathy which he has had for a while.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes I got a note from Neal Petree that he goes to the gym every day to hold on to what he has. Also, he has a salt water fishing boat, so he catches enough fish to keep him busy cleaning fish. It seems his son was talking about buying a boat, and after waiting a while, Neal decided to buy the boat himself.

Charlie Hansrote’s son, Charlie Hansrote ’80, informed me that Charlie is in hospice care and in very poor health. I sent an email out asking for prayer for Charlie.

David Harvey died Aug. 25. His daughter said he had a good life and had three children – Janet, David and Sarah – three grandchildren and three great-grandchildren, with a fourth great-grandchild due in December.

I called my VMI roommate, Howard Williamson, to learn that he and Bernie have finally gotten their bedroom rebuilt after the disaster of a neighbor’s tree root undermining the bedroom and part of the living room. The concrete floor had to be dug up and completely replaced. The tree was taken down, and the neighbor was responsible for the entire cost.

Bernie is mostly homebound, so they do not go out for lunch or dinner anymore. Howard is maintaining his health and caring for Bernie.

I heard from Jim Wiley. He and Carole attended the VMI versus Richmond game in September and, once again, were disappointed in the outcome. Jim recalled that VMI had not won a game away since 2010. That’s got to be some kind of record. But, “Never say die.” It was a Corps trip, so they got to see their grandson and the rest of the Corps. Apparently the Corps was separated into four groups for some reason with no cheerleaders and a very small band. There was little excitement, and he didn’t recall “The Spirit.” People seem to have “given up.” It’s not like the old days. Jim went on to say they did have a pregame Keydet Club party, which was fun despite running out of beer, but they were able to see a number of friends. As on several occasions, the only brother rat that they saw was Chris Holland and Sugar. They both looked great. Jim was disappointed that ’52 didn’t give a little more support. He saw an awful lot of guys from ’53 and ’54. Jim also wrote that both he and Carole are doing OK “for our age” when they are not holding each other up. He has gone to a walking stick which makes him feel more comfortable and may keep him from falling. Amazingly, they both

2016-Issue 1

are still playing golf. It’s sort of funny, putting down a walking stick and picking up the driver.

They find themselves living day by day, grateful for each one of them.

Speaking of walking sticks, Lucette and I recently flew to Minnesota to visit our son, David Mecredy ’78, and Lucette carried a cane, because she is unsteady walking on uneven ground. Every airport attendant offered us a ride between planes, and we were offered early boarding, as well. So, our advice is to carry a cane if you have to fly somewhere.

I learned that Bob Lambert went into hospice care in October. I talked to Bob and brought him up-to-date on the activities and welfare of ’52.

Bob is very weak at present. We will have more news from Bob before you read these notes. I will try to keep most of you informed about our welfare through emails. I called Bob again Oct. 15. We did not talk long. His voice sounded a little stronger. Chris Holland called to tell me that Bob Lambert died Oct. 27. He had received an email from Bob’s daughter and I looked at my emails to find I had received the same email.

We decided to send flowers to honor Bob Lambert as our class vice president, after discussion with several brother rats. Several brother rats also individually contributed funds to VMI in Bob’s memory.

Chris and Sugar Holland are continuing to travel, especially to VMI for Keydet Club meetings and football games. Chris sees some encouragement for the football team, and the coach is encouraged. We are a long time between wins, and we are always the underdogs because of our size and curriculum. It is hard to win against colleges that major in football.

We can be proud of the efforts we make.

Chuck Haley called, and I had not heard from him in a while. The reason was that he fell about three months ago and banged up his face and head, putting him in the hospital. He has fully recovered, except his memory is slow in coming back. Chuck and Virginia are still traveling.

She now does all of the driving. For other activities, Chuck is tutoring sixth and seventh graders, helping them transfer to eighth grade.

Lou Delisio recently had lunch with Nutz Navas and reported that Nutz is doing fine, except he his difficulty hearing and remembering things.

That is all for this round of class notes, as I have to send them in to VMI this week for inclusion in the February Alumni Review.

’53

William C. Noell Jr.

Brother Rats, I have to assume that you read about Tony Vitale’s passing in the Taps section of the last Alumni Review. I did not note it in my class notes, as I had not received any info on Tony’s passing and did not find out about it until I also read it in the Alumni Review. Sorry that you all did not get informed earlier. Since then, we lost Wendy Shay in August. His wife, Anna, had already died. Wendy was living in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, where he lived for many years.

Bob Cheatham tried to visit with him on several occasions when he was in the Philadelphia area but was not successful.

Judy and I attended Parents Weekend and the football game and had a large tailgate gathering on the Parade Ground before the game. In addition to our family – Jennifer and kids – the family of our adopted “rat,” Weston Gloger ’19, was here for the weekend from Houston: His father, David; aunt, Denise; and grandmother, Mary. Mary’s husband, deceased, was Susan Moncrief’s brother. Besides joining us for the tailgate, they came to the house Sunday afternoon for an hour or so before going out to dinner at the Southern Inn, where our grandson, Jackson, was working. We had a very enjoyable visit with Weston and his family. The aunt and uncle of our adopted “rat” (now a 1st

Class of 1953: Bill and Judy tailgating Halloween weekend.

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Class Notes Class cadet), Jack Wilkins ’16, who were staying with us, departed for the Parade Ground bright and early at 6 a.m. Saturday morning to set up the tent/tailgate, and thus we did not have to arrive until after 10 with the balance of the food.

The Parade Ground was packed, and I was told it was the largest tailgate thus far at the Institute.

Traffic was backed over the Maury River bridge early in the morning to get onto the Parade Ground. Bob Cheatham was in Roanoke at a high school reunion, so I persuaded him to come over for the tailgate and football game, then he returned to Roanoke for Saturday night’s functions and headed back to South Carolina Sunday.

Stopping by our tailgate for a visit was Bill Atwill’s grandson, Henry ’18, and his parents, Bennett and Anne. We always enjoy visiting with them and seeing Henry, of course. I did see Betty and Mickey Woodward’s grandson’s parents, Woody and Leslie, but Will ’18 was not at their tent at the time. An earlier email from Betty said that the family had gone on a cruise in July to Croatia, Greece, Malta and Italy. We talked to Sandy Morgan (wife of Allen Morgan ’75), Frank Spencer’s daughter, at halftime, who said Frank was at the game but sitting up in Ferebee Lounge, so we did not get to see him.

We looked for Jim Morris at his usual parking spot behind the stadium, but he did not come up from Richmond for this game; however, we did get to talk with his grandson, Bobby ’10, who teaches computer science at the elementary school in Natural Bridge. He has had two of our grandsons in his class.

Judy and I stayed with Jack Trigg in Birmingham, Alabama, for two nights when we went to the University of Tennessee versus the University of Alabama game in Tuscaloosa in October. Jack and Elizabeth had just returned from 10 days in Paris the night we arrived. He caught up on his rest and jetlag Saturday while we were at the football game. After that, we had a very nice visit with Jack Sunday, and he prepared us his special, cheese/tomato/etc. toast for a light lunch then took us on a tour of the University of AlabamaBirmingham medical facilities. There are numerous new constructions and expansions of these medical facilities, which are very impressive.

There is quite a change in this area from the days when I lived in Birmingham for a while during World War II. I had a nice note card from Gayle Shorter earlier in 2015 saying she is still able to work in her

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Class of 1953: Weston Gloger ’19 and his mother, Kim, at the Noells’ house Halloween weekend.

Class of 1953: Susan and Art Moncrief at home in Texas.

Class of 1953: After the win against Morehead State University in September were, from front, Frank Spencer; Art Nunn ’75, son of Arthur B. “Bill” Nunn Jr. ’43; and Allen Morgan ’75, Frank’s son-in-law.

nice gardens somewhat and now keeps a puzzle out on a table in the house that she and grandchildren work when they visit. She was hoping I would get to visit again when at the UT versus Alabama game this year, but circumstances did not give us the time to go to Camden for the visit.

We had a great Halloween weekend here in Lexington, despite VMI losing the football game. We saw Fluggie Moore and Sut and Lucy Sutherland after the game. Their grandson, Gabe ’18, has not been able to enter the game except for once this year due to being injured and “redshirted.” I walked up behind the stadium at halftime to catch up with Jim Morris. Although his SUV was parked there, I never did find him.

We had Kim, the mother of Weston Gloger ’19 (Art and Susan Moncrief’s great-nephew), our adopted “rat,” from Houston as our house guest for the weekend to visit her son. This was the first time she had seen him since dropping him off at matriculation. Friday night, we took Weston, Kim and Henry Atwill ’19 to dinner at the country club. Saturday night we had a big Halloween dinner party at our house; some 30 odd people attended, including a son and daughter’s family consisting of six grandchildren, as well as friends, along with Kim and Weston, and our 1st Class adopted “rat,” Jack Wilkins ’16. Henry was not able to come due to study needs. Our daughter, Jennifer, organizes this each year at our house, and all we have to do is show up after the football game and a short visit at Moody Hall, meet everyone and enjoy it. The young ones did the trick or treat deal in the neighborhood, and the older ones passed out the treats, sometimes with the help of Jack and Weston. It was a fun time for all.

On Sunday, we returned Kim to the Charlottesville airport, and Weston rode with us to see his mother off, as he will not be back in Houston until Christmas. Weston is majoring in international studies, taking Arabic as his language and expects to be commissioned in the Marines. Judy, Kim and I met and had a very nice conversation with Col. Coggins, the Marine Corps ROTC Detachment Commander, after the parade Saturday morning. He happens to be a University of Tennessee graduate and family is from Knoxville, which really proved interesting. The visit was very enjoyable and interesting, and surprisingly, it lasted at least 20 minutes or more.

At the game Saturday, I did get to visit awhile with two old Portsmouth VMI Chapter friends from my days of living there 30 years ago: Ben

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Lynch ’61 and John St. George ’57 and their wives, who came up for the day from Portsmouth. It was nice to visit with them and catch up, as it has been several years since I have seen them here in Lexington.

We plan to head back to Tennessee for the Nov. 7 UT versus the University of South Carolina game, but it will not be the same not being able to see old Coach Spurrier strutting on his sidelines.

’54

J.M. Perry Archer

As Count Basie was so fond of saying when performing “April in Paris”: “Let’s try it one more once!”

We now have photographs and note about the infamous 1951 VMI step-off, courtesy of Tommy Williamson. Glad there is some record revealing the damage. It looks like the TAC officer in the foreground of one of the photos following is indeed “S.S.” Wilson, whose actions in stick-checking the second stoop during 1953 Ring Figure caused the whole thing to be held.

Here’s how Tommy tells it: “After the Class of ’53 had their ring figure, they wanted to continue a tradition of the ring figure class that the second stoop would not be included when the OC pulled his MNI (midnight check) that night. Captain ‘S.S.’ Wilson was the OC and Colonel Frank Pancake [’38] was commandant, and they said, ‘No.’ Accordingly, many of the 2nd Class were boned for not being ‘all right’ for the stick check. The firsts and seconds were furious and wanted to pull a step-off with our large class of some 400 rats.

“They waited approximately one week until Captain Wilson was OC again. The firsts and seconds pulled all the rats down after taps. They tore up the OC’s hole – located in Washington Arch – set fire in the sentry box, smashed the bulletin boards and tore off the mailbox in Jackson Arch. Jack Tiller was very upset that a letter he had just mailed to Betty, now his wife, was lost.

“Pancake ordered a check formation of all cadets with overcoats and rifles and marched them across the bridge and down Penalty Tour Road for a hike. I had to wake Claiborne up for the march. The Roanoke Times wrote about it and said over $15,000 damage was done.”

2016-Issue 1

See hereinafter four photos from fall 1951 of this historic event.

Guess we will put that to bed now, but what a time it was. (By the way, if you are anything like many concerning ’50s music, “April in Paris” is a real mood elevator. Get it on Google, and listen to the Count Basie Orchestra belting it out.)

Remember the old “Pete Smith Specialty” movie shorts starring Dave O’Brien? Jack Tiller called and told of an incident at his house that reminded me of those funny films. Jack was cutting his grass one day, and suddenly some bees came out of nowhere and started doing what disturbed bees do; they stung him – lots of them. Jack ran for the house. The bees followed him in! They got up his pant leg and stung him once on the head and in 17 other places.

Jack’s been looking for the hive. He bought a beekeeper’s hat. One day, having still not found their lair, he went out – oops, forgot the hat! One of the blighters must have been lying in wait.

It buzzed out and stung him – again – on the head. Well, as Pete Smith might have said, “Oh, when oh, when will our intrepid hero find the beehive? Do we think he’ll wear the beekeepers hat next time? And so long for now.” (By the way, Jack’s wife, Betty, fell and broke her arm a few months ago – didn’t tell him for a week. She’s OK now.)

Recently got word that Bob Modjeski died.

Guess you could say that he was a cadet’s cadet and a Marine’s Marine later. Very military. He retired from the Marine Corps in 1979 as a lieutenant commander and then went on to work with Raytheon and then Ciscon. The only more stentorian voice I recall is that of Tom Wright. Bob was a singer in the VMI Glee Club and later in church choirs and in the Pensacola Choral Society. He served in Vietnam in 1969 on ships and at other posts. He liked to say that God spared him in war so that he could sing in church.

Lastly, Wendell Shay died. Wendell retired from a long career with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. He was a civil engineer and worked in the Pittsburgh area. He was active in Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts and also taught swimming for the YMCA and the American Red Cross.

Ollie Hux said (about losing BRs) – quite correctly – that our class can’t stand many more years

Class of 1954: Photos from the step-off that occurred in November 1951.

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Class Notes like this past one, or there won’t be any Class of 1954. It’s been rough, for sure. Ollie just attended a joint Pikes Peak/Rocky Mountain VMI Chapter meeting for a rat send-off get-together to wish some of them well. Three incoming 4th Class cadets were there. Ollie said he’s the oldest-er, most experienced (?) member of the Pikes Peak Chapter. Lots of us are experiencing that distinction, I guess. He also discussed his conclusion that today’s 4th Class cadets have a rougher time than we did – probably right concerning physical requirements, and I guess academic requirements, too. But we have to remember the “rat pissers” Jack Townes ’53, Dan Murdaugh ’53, Jack Finney ’52 and several others. In today’s Corps, how much can be done with rats? I was sent to G.C. one time and had to lean by my forefingers against a wall in a hot room, along with other unfortunate miscreants. Some were dropping. At least one passed out. Thunk! I also was once made to stand at attention on a hot radiator wearing both an overcoat and a raincoat for quite a while. Last, I had once to do pushups while an old cadet held an unscabbered bayonet under me. Finally, what rat class other than the ’54s had to stay in the Rat Line until a date in June? Best I know, the answer is: “None.” Today, some things are harder; some easier. Ollie, by the way, is exploring Colorado in his RV and is involved with Boy’s Ranch.

How about sending some of your tales of woe during our rat year at the hands of the then old

cadets? Bet you have many such. It would make for some great reading.

Don Howard, who lives in Marblehead, Massachusetts, was recently honored by having an award named after him – The Don Howard Award for Mixed Media – from the Marblehead Festival of Arts. The award will be given annually to a deserving artist and recognizes Don’s important contribution to the arts and his many years of artistic contributions in mixed media.

Tom Kane sent news. His step-father was at Pearl Harbor on the fateful day in 1941. He was a doctor with the Army. Actually stood and watched in puzzlement when a barracks across from family housing was strafed. Thought it was U.S. maneuvers. Surprise, surprise, as they discovered.

Regarding World War II: First, if you like to use the computer, get on YouTube (http://www. youtube.com/embed/58HWFWaqa4), or simply Google, “World War II Pilots, Pearl Harbor,” to see a video of two young P-40 warriors who took off and fought the Japanese that day. Outstanding video and true story. And both survived.

Flash: You may have read that the VMI boxing team recently won the U.S. Intercollegiate Boxing Association National Championship in Ann Arbor. This from Jan Abernathy ’67.

How about that, sports fans? VMI had only an eight-man team. Three cadets became individual national champions. Hats off to the team and to the coaches. Nation’s best!

That’s all, folks. Please let me hear from you!

’55

Class of 1954: A card created by Don Howard.

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Read Hanmer

I blinked, and suddenly it’s time to prepare a set of class notes for inclusion in the February 2016 Alumni Review. The November 2015 Alumni Review hasn’t hit my mailbox yet. I hope all of you got your copy in a timely manner.

Nearby, I have included a picture sent to me by a very proud grandfather. Marty Fisher’s granddaughter, Navy Lt. j.g. Colleen Fallon (now Colleen Hardie), was married at the U.S. Naval Academy in early October. Colleen was wearing her grandmother’s wedding dress. Marty noted that “I cried, she cried and so did everyone in attendance. It’s a miracle that the dress didn’t fade, because it was stored in the attic for all these 57 years. I’m sure Pat was watching!”

Class of 1955: Marty Fisher and his granddaughter.

It’s time to report on the Annual Bryan Beach Bash, which took place in early September at Ron and Nita’s beach rental in Sandbridge, Virginia. The years are beginning to take their toll, as fewer BRs were in attendance than recently.

Ron and Nita were gracious hosts to the following: Bob and Jane Bowden, Frank and Judy Brooke, Marty Fisher and Anne Holup, Read and Lois Hanmer, Dick and Janet Sutherland, Fielding (Moose) and Betsy Tyler, and Bill and Boots Wainwright. Also participating were John and Lorraine Taylor, who graciously catered and served a delightful meal! The Taylors were assisted by Amanda Chilcoat (Lorraine’s daughter) and Laura Stanley (Nita’s sister). A wonderful time was had by all. And, of course, the usual VMI stories were bandied about. They seem to be increasingly embellished each year. Before dinner, a moment of silence was observed in memory of all our deceased brother rats and to say a prayer for Sam Segar, who, with Anne, is bravely fighting cancer. (October update: Anne reported that Sam continues to do well by taking a brand new Immuno-Therapy. He gets an IV every other week in Norfolk. By late December, he should know if this new drug has successfully stopped the growth of the cancer. He really likes his VMI medical consulting team – Bill Ruffin ’52, Parker Cross ’53 and Bob Bowden.) The festive weekend concluded with all gathering at Bob and Jane Bowden’s beach home for a

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes wonderful dinner and camaraderie.

Bill Wainwright sent the following message: “We had a fantastic time at the Parents Weekend at the Institute and were overjoyed to have three generations of Wainrights with us: Me, Jack ’82, Doug ’83, Jay ’16 and Nick. Jay will graduate next spring and Nick will enter with the Class of ’20 next August. I noticed that Nick had a rat ring hanging from a necklace. I asked him how he had one before joining his class. He told me that Jay had given it to him. Upon further investigation, I discovered that Jack passed the ring to Doug who passed it to Jay and finally to Nick. Can you envision five years in the Rat Line?”

Jud Leech provided an interesting update on the Leeches. “Mary and I are still living in the high desert (5,610 feet at our house) of New Mexico. The mountain a couple of miles to the east of us rises to 10,600 feet. Millions of years ago, it was under the sea. One can find fossils of sea life on top of this mountain.

I never thought we would live anywhere except Virginia, but here we are after 41 years. Here is a health report: Mary deals with post-polio syndrome, as she had polio as a little girl, and it has returned stronger than when she originally had it. She was one of the unlucky 20 percent or so who were chosen for the return of polio. I have been dealing with Prostate cancer for the last eight years, but it has not gotten me yet. Our son, Frank Leech ’80, has been living overseas for the last 33 years working on civil engineering projects. He has lived in Nigeria, Japan, Nepal, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Oman, Abu Dhabi and now Malaysia. He has one daughter who is a senior biology major at Bryn Mawr College. This year, she is also taking graduate classes at the University of Pennsylvania which will count toward graduation at Bryn Mawr and a master’s degree in computational analysis at Penn. Then one more year, and she will earn her master’s at

2016-Issue 1

Class of 1955: A gala time at Sandbridge in September.

Class of 1955: Bill and Boots Wainwright, Dick Sutherland, and Ron Bryan at Sandbridge.

Class of 1955: Judy Brooke, Nita Bryan and Lois Hanmer at Sandbridge.

Penn. She is also a teaching assistant and dorm monitor. I am not sure that is the term, but it requires her helping younger students with their problems.

Fortunately, she is young and has a lot of energy. Frank’s other daughter is a senior in an international high school in Kula Lumpur in Malaysia. She is in an international baccalaureate program which requires a lot of extra work but is excellent preparation for college. Her older sister was in the same program in high school in Abu Dhabi. This daughter is interested in economics. I quizzed her a little this summer and was pleased to learn that Hayek is her hero and not Keynes.

A couple of years ago, our daughter moved back to Albuquerque after living in California for 30 years. It is nice to have a daughter nearby to help the old folks from time to time. Her daughter is a senior nursing student at New Mexico State University. She has not decided what kind of nurse she wants to be. After doing her hospital rotations, she knows that she does not want to work in intensive care.

She likes all of the other services in which she has worked.”

This from Casey Jones: “Sarah and I have been rather sedentary, relaxing, looking at the tide coming in and out, and generally dealing with the escalating ravages of age.” (Class Agent note: Sounds idyllic to me, Casey.) Casey went on to say that they have just listed their house for sale, but you all will still have plenty of time to visit, given the slow real estate market.

Sarah is still involved with the Art League, drawing and painting to her heart’s content. Casey and Sarah are active in their local church, St. Mary’s, and Casey spends Wednesday afternoons in a dynamic poker game. He said, “I’m so glad I didn’t play poker at VMI; I was too busy running the block and walking the resulting penalty tours.” Casey concluded with these thoughts: “I send love to all of our brother rats. You are what I think of when I think of VMI – not the

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Class Notes buildings, not the faculty, not the traditions nor whether the team won or lost. All these are important, but all are in second place. I’m proud to know you.”

An update from Dave Woolwine: “We went to Baton Rouge during the first week of October for a visit with our grandchildren at Louisiana State University. Our granddaughter is in her second year of veterinary school and grandson Aaron is a freshman. Aaron changed his major to chemical engineering. LSU’s football team wanted him to try out as a kicker, but there were already three walk-ons in place as well as a scholarship kicker, so he decided that he didn’t need the uncertainty of a slot on the team as well as the chance of injury.” Dave reported that he and Barbara are doing very well, everything considered. Perhaps it’s because they are having more to consider at their age. Dave concluded his note by observing that VMI’s football team is becoming more competitive. Let’s all hope that competitiveness can turn into some wins!

Joe Brenner wrote that “all is well in Connecticut despite another testing winter.” This sentence, by the way, is exactly what I reported in the Class Notes of 2014-Issue 2. At that time, I enclosed a picture of Joe and Zelda in the Black Forest while touring with a Viking Rhine River cruise in October 2013. Now, two years later, they have returned from another one; this time on the Rhone, with a side trip to the French Riviera (after another brutal winter). Joe has asked his son in the Oceanography Department at the U.S. Naval Academy to please shut off the snow machine for the upcoming season. Joe was chopping ice off his roof last February, as were most of his neighbors. For those with an interest in things volumetric, Joe

reported that the total snow accumulation in the Boston metropolitan area last winter was eight billion cubic feet – a really nasty disposal problem in addition to the crippling infrastructural effects, the restrictions on movement and the tendencies toward a massive outbreak of cabin fever. The Brenners were delighted to see so many happy faces at the class reunion – recognizable, cheerful and resolute in maintaining those positive attributes of our formative years in Lexington.

A quick note from Billy Nolley: “I don’t know where the time goes when one is retired, but herein are a few notes. Charlie Luck and I attended the VMI versus Richmond football game in September at U of R’s stadium. We visited with Bill Davidson and many other VMI grads at a pregame function on the tennis courts near the stadium. In the seats, keeping an eye on the game, I spotted Dusty Rhodes. I had a good visit with him, his granddaughter and Rody. Not much else going on in the Holy City.”

Sadly, I must report on the death of Ned Whitlock’s wife, Lucy Jane Whitlock, who died Oct. 7, 2015, in Port Neches, Louisiana.

Larry Price filled me in on the accomplishments that Boots has achieved through her long association with the Daughters of the American Revolution. Boots is presently chairman of Historic Preservation for the DAR for the state of Indiana. She just finished a four year project for the renovation of the Scribner House in New Albany, Indiana. Work is also continuing on the adjacent “Summer Kitchen.” The buildings are over two hundred years old. They were built by Dr. Joel Scribner, who founded New Albany. The Scribner House is the oldest standing structure in Indiana. The Summer Kitchen is used as a gift shop and office for the Piankeshaw Chapter of the DAR. Boots has been recognized by top management of the DAR in Washington, D.C., and in Indiana. Larry said “quite an accomplish for an xx-year old lady.” (Class Agent note: actual age not included to protect the class agent.)

’56 Class of 1955: Joe and Zelda Brenner overlooking the Rhone River Valley at Vienne in October 2015.

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Richard M. Smith

Alan “Tiger” Jackson called to request info on funding a brick for himself and another person.

I had him get in touch with Sam Sorrells at the Foundation and he worked it out satisfactorily.

They are installing 70 new bricks this month for our deceased BRs. We discussed the recent visit

by Jim Dillard to Montana. Jim enlightened Tiger on some of the projects he worked on for Lockheed Air Craft during the early days of space exploration. Jim’s grasp of mathematical computations is phenomenal. His contribution to the program wasn’t adequately appreciated.

Nan and Tiger are looking forward to joining us for the 60th. An article appeared in the Class of ’84 note section of the Alumni Review regarding our BR Jon Roach’s son, Jeff, and his family.

A retired Air Force pilot, he now serves as the chief of training for the Euro-Nato Joint Pilot Training program. His family has been involved in a number of church ministry projects and have adopted several foster children, the latest being a 5-year old boy from China who is deaf.

I had a nice phone chat with Motsy Foster despite the fact our cell phones didn’t want to talk at the beginning. She is enjoying summer trips with her family to places they have been going for many years, like Emerald Isle Beach.

She is not too happy to have a grandchild going to VPI but hopes the last one will go to the Institute. We talked about things needing to be decided regarding the upcoming reunion, and she volunteered to help me as in the past. She wasn’t aware Bill Lamb had been in the hospital recently. I also filled her in on the mutual friend, Tom Weaver, whose funeral Honey and I attended in Lynchburg. She is trying to sell her house in Buena Vista since the neighborhood has deteriorated considerably in recent years.

She and a friend who is coming from California for the 60th Reunion may end up staying with the class in a motel for the first time.

I received a nice note from Susie McKinnon, Frank’s widow, in Marietta, Georgia. She thanked me for writing the class info for the Alumni Review since she enjoys reading about the BRs and their families.

September was a time for me and some of my old friends from the days of work with the clay pipe industry to get together for a reunion at my place. Four of us from Virginia, North Carolina and South Carolina, along with Don Heslep, enjoyed two days and nights on Lake Gaston. Don worked with my friend, Bill Dudley, from Raleigh at DuPont when they first graduated from college. There was a lot of history for them to share with one another. Jim Dillard came for a visit with me while here in

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Virginia seeing about putting Francis’ house on the market in Tappahannock. After he returned from his son’s in Charlotte, North Carolina, we enjoyed a night dining on Lake Gaston. A lunch meeting was set up at Brio’s Restaurant in Richmond with a number of classmates and wives to discuss information I had received from VMI concerning the upcoming 60th Reunion.

Thirteen of us expressed views and suggestions about costs of things like favors, caterers, transportation, registration fees, entertainment, guest speakers, memorial service, tours and endowment. We will go over some of the questions and suggestions with Lisla Cowles, director of reunion affairs. I plan to get a letter out to the whole class to let them know what is planned.

By the time you read this, you should have an application form to mail in stating your intention to attend the reunion.

Until then, Yours in the spirit, Dick

’57

Clayton M. Thomas III

Seventeen years ago, in November 1998, Dawn and I arrived in Florida. We had a happy experience in Plantation Bay, and we look forward to a new lifestyle in John Knox Village in Orange City, 45 miles away, as our dreams soon become reality.

Martin Andersen sent a picture of Jim Snead celebrating his 80th birthday Oct. 5, 2015. It was a surprise party, and Jim was truly surprised!

Martin said Kay Schwendinger is doing well and enjoying the new house Martin built for her at the rear of his home. Lynne, Martin’s wife, takes care of Kay and cooks her dinner six days a week.

Martin takes Kay out for sushi once a week.

We received a nice letter from Nora and John Bolling’s daughter, Mary. John died in 1997, and Mary said her mother died in 2004 after a long battle with cancer. Mary also said both parents spoke fondly of their friends from VMI. Martha Batten in Simpsonville, South Carolina, sent a photo of a kitten she found on the side of the road. Martha took him home and fed him with a pet baby bottle every three hours for two weeks. He had just opened his eyes. Also, recently, Martha’s daughter-in-law called her with the exciting news that someone had dumped two kittens in their church parking lot. Martha told her

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to bring them to her. She cleaned them up and fed them. They are now eating solid food. On the brighter side, Bill and Martha have planned a four day trip to New York City. They will stay at the Midtown Hilton and take in a Broadway play.

Bill and Kathy Benson sent us a packet of folders on Rome, Georgia, hoping we may visit them on our way between Florida and VMI. Rome looks historically interesting, and we plan to go there some day.

In October, Claiborne Coupland returned from a five day hunting trip (duck and geese) in Manitoba, Canada. Linda and he are happy and well in Tidewater, Virginia.

In September, Ken and Katie Dickinson celebrated his 80th birthday at the Tides Club at Patrick Air Force Base. Dawn and I drove the 200 mile round trip and joined their celebration.

Bob Fiske in Ormond Beach has been a USO member since 1998. He also supports VMI and our class. Edie and he look forward to our 60th Reunion in spring 2017.

Bob Fravel in Port Clinton, Ohio, thanked us for reminding him that he was turning 80! His two granddaughters write him weekly telling him “how old he is.” They both go to the University of Michigan. Connie and Bob still plan to winter in Lake Placid, Florida, and hoped to head south on Christmas Day. Howard Lawrence sent us the obit from Joseph Mays Davidson Jr., who died Aug. 29, 2015. He, Bob Bolling, John Whittle, and G.E. and Ro Murray attended the funeral service in Bedford and visited with Joy. The area’s elite turned out in Joe’s honor.

Sid and Madge Perry in Pensacola are well and contented and have two grown daughters living with them. They claim the weather is cool with blue skies, and they are well and happy.

Jack and Jo Trant from Tidewater, Virginia, claim that Dawn and I are an asset to VMI and the Class of ’57. Jack said some health issues over the past year are better now, and they hope to make the 60th Reunion and beyond.

’58

Lee McCown

Just back from the October mini reunion in Lexington attended by 36 BRs, many with companions, for a total of 63: Howell Bowen,

Class of 1958: From left, Susie Peters, John Peters, Elizabeth Edgar and Ernie Edgar vacationing in Highlands, North Carolina.

Jack and Lynn Boze, Dave and Barbara Camper, Art and Joan Carnavale, Alex and Xuguang Clarke, Hunter and Betty Jean Clarke, Jim Cowan, Jack and Jane Cunningham, Don and Carolyn Cuthrell, Brooke Doggett, Ernie and Elizabeth Edgar, Lou Farmer, Joe and Betty Gray, Bill and Carolyn Harshaw, Charlie and Joan Hayes, Ted and Becky Henry, Bill and Landa Holt, Onza and Becky Hyatt, Bill Keefe and brand new wife Barbara Lueck (see more below about that), Lee McCown and wife Laura Cameron, Moon Menefee, Hull and Judy Negley, Frank Norvell and girlfriend Martha Booker, Roy Palmer, Jerry and Karen Paull, Jack Payne and fiancée Hella Kiiss, John and Susie Peters, Jim and Peggy Poteet, Harry Shepherd, Jim and Kay Stilwell, Ron Swirk and son Francis, Roland Tharpe, Drew and JoAnn Troxler, Stirling and Jane Williamson, Jan Woodman, and Warren and Darla Yaun.

Many arrived Friday and met in the hospitality suite, which was a penthouse condo at the Robert E. Lee Hotel downtown, where most of us stayed. The large balcony has a great view of the Institute, House Mountain and the Corps Physical Training Facility, currently under construction. Sunshine, fall leaves and historic metal rooftops added to the beauty. Laura said I have to include the fact that the view of the Washington and Lee University campus is also fantastic.

The afternoon parade was great, with the huge garrison flags casting big shadows on barracks

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Class Notes and the Corps and the band doing and looking their best. After the parade, people found their way to the good restaurants of Lexington, including the Southern Inn, which was around while we were in school and known for their fried chicken. After a major fire, it has been remodeled and expanded and has excellent food, including the tried and true fried chicken. Harry Shepherd and Ron and Francis Swirk made the short trip to the Edelweiss German Restaurant near Staunton.

Harry remembered eating there once while we were in school.

Laura and I had dinner with Frank Norvell, Martha Booker, Jan Woodman and newlyweds Bill Keefe and wife Barbara Lueck, who had just gotten married in Lexington that afternoon at the Manly Memorial Baptist Church on S. Main Street. Frank and Martha attended and said it was a beautiful ceremony. Wishing Bill and Barbara the best of the rest of their lives. Frank and Martha were celebrating the 17th anniversary of their first date, so we wish them the best, too.

A number of walking wounded made it to the reunion and were able to get to the hill for parades and back for the dinner, thanks to the kindness of BRs. The riding wounded included Hull Negley, in a wheelchair, who was present and accounted for at the Saturday parade in the tailgating area where his beloved band is situated during the static part of parades. Thanks to Judy Negley for making sure he could come.

Thanks to Jerry Paull, the irrepressible Jan Woodman was able to get to Lexington, where a scooter he had ordered brought over from Waynesboro awaited to get him around town and to the game. Jan handled getting around the streets of Lexington well, but getting the scooter into the seating area at the stadium was a challenge solved by Stirling Williamson, who suggested we boldly take the elevator to the VIP lounge. This we did, asking a couple of cadets guarding the door for directions to the elevator, then proceeding

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Class of 1958: Waiting for the Saturday parade during the October mini reunion were, from left, seated, Bill Holt, Frank Norvell, Don Cuthrell and Roy Palmer. Back row: Stirling Williamson, Roland Tharpe, Harry Shepherd, Ron Swirk and Jim Cowan. Far right, seated: Jan Woodman.

Class of 1958: From left, Lee McCown, Roy Palmer and Jan Woodman, seated, enjoyed the Friday parade during the October mini reunion.

Class of 1958: Susie Peters and Sue Bennett in a sea of VMI colors in Oxford, Mississippi.

to the lounge, past Gen. Peay ’62, to the outdoor seating area where we watched the game from an excellent vantage point. The game had its good moments, mostly through the passing of quarterback Cobb ’17, and the team has shown noticeable improvement this year. Ultimately, we were not in the “W” column on this day.

At the Saturday dinner, Stirling gave a warm welcome, and Ernie offered a moving tribute to the BRs we have lost since our 55th Reunion: Earl Bennett, Cos Cosentino, Dick Culver, Dave Johnson, Henry Rose, George Shrieves, Bill Thomas and Tony Williams.

And thanks to Joe Gray, our meal was properly blessed.

Ernie’s toast went as follows: “Good evening, everyone. I would like to propose a toast in a few moments, so I ask that you please charge your glasses.

“This has been a great mini reunion and a wonderful time together for all of us. As we have reminisced and enjoyed one another’s company, we have been mindful that there are ever-increasing gaps in our ranks. Forty-eight of our brother rats have answered their final roll call, as have some of our spouses and loved ones; eight brother rats since we last gathered in Lexington two years ago. Dave Johnson, Tony Williams, George Shrieves, Henry Rose, Bill Thomas, Earl Bennett, Dick Culver and Cos Consetino – all who are now absent from us are forever a part of us, and they have been present all along in spirit.

We all have our own memories of our classmates, roommate, teammate, company mate, section mate, friend, comrade in arms – maybe all of these, but most certainly brother rat.

“I ask you all to please rise to honor those who are gone but not forgotten. I propose a toast to our brother rats. Seats rest.”

After dinner, BRs reported on classmates not in attendance: Charlie Hayes spoke of Howard Savage, who is undergoing treatment for pancreatic cancer, will have surgery in the spring

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and is planning to see everyone at the 60th Reunion. Bill Harshaw updated us on Tidewater residents Staff Balderson and Sandy Yon, and John Peters told of a great visit with Sue Bennett in Oxford, Mississippi. (See below for more about Sue.) These BRs let me know they really wanted to attend the mini but were unable to because of health challenges: Gene Grayson with a shoulder problem, Gene Martin, Jimmy Moore and Dave Pai with back problems, and Wes Roberts, who is still ailing but would love to get back with his BRs and to his Virginia home in Fairfield.

We received some very enthusiastic comments from those who attended. Alex Clarke said, “Absolutely had one of the best times I have ever had or can imagine. I won’t make the mistake of missing another reunion. The only thing that was better than the steak and salmon at the dinner was the fellowship. My wife, Xuguang, was overwhelmed by the camaraderie we displayed and particularly appreciated the way she was accepted and brought into the group. Seeing some of the guys after 55-plus years and feeling like it was just yesterday blew me away. Thanks to all who made this past weekend so special.”

Don Cuthrell said, “Being at the Institute always brings out the spirit and commitment to class and corps. All in all, a great gathering of brothers.”

Laura and I enjoyed working on the reunion with Jane and Stirling Williamson, Frank Norvell and Martha Booker and look forward to the 60th.

Jimmy Moore can be a real modest guy. How come I didn’t know that he purchased and donated to VMI the manqué (sculpture talk for a small version of what is to be a larger object) for the statue called “Three Soldiers,” which is adjacent to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.? The sculptor, Frederick Hart, won the

Class of 1958: This statuette was donated to VMI by Jimmy Moore in 2004.

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commission in a competitive process, and it was dedicated in 1984. Research reveals that Jim’s gift of the manqué was covered in the Institute Report, so I have to say I had my chance to know about it.

Jim says he was treated very well by the Institute when he presented the gift in 2004, while Sam Witt was president of the Board of Visitors. The statue now rests in the reading room to the right of the library entrance, and it is a beauty. The reading room is dedicated to the Class of 1969, which lost more men in the Vietnam War than any other VMI class. Jim very kindly listed the statue as a gift from him, his family and the Class of ’58. “I was glad to do it,” he said.

Bruce Haldeman sent this news, passed on by tennis partner Rod Wade, with whom he won four doubles tournaments back in the ’90s. “Rod advises that Bedford, Virginia, is a great place to visit and that he saw a plaque at The National D-Day Memorial with this wording: ‘Commemorating the World War II service of the Virginia Military Institute citizen-soldiers who, in time of deepest peril, came to the aid of their country. Over 4,000 served, 185 gave their lives. In every branch. In every rank. In every theater. They served.’”

This from John Peters: “Susie and I just returned from a visit to Memphis to see son Ross, his wife, Katie, and our granddaughter, Eleanor, in their new home. While there, we went to Oxford, Mississippi, to see the town and, just as important, to visit with Sue Bennett. If one is inclined to forget what a delightful, funny and intelligent person Sue is, then a visit to Oxford should cure that. We met Sue at her lovely home and embarked on a tour of Oxford. There could be no better guide than Sue. Since much of Oxford’s story is about William Faulkner, it was wonderful to have Sue share her extensive knowledge of Faulkner. She is leading a busy and fun-filled life in Oxford, where she has a wonderful circle of friends. She remains vitally interested in VMI and ’58 in particular. I am encouraging her to plan on attending the next reunion and would like any support I can get. After a busy, full day filled with warm memories, we departed Oxford, but only after some gracious Mississippi/ Bennett hospitality and a little song and dance.”

Thank you for this, John. We all remember Sue, and, of course, Earl, with great affection.

John and Susie also had a visit with Ernie and Elizabeth Edgar on Mother’s Day in Highlands, North Carolina. “I think a good time was had by all,” John said. “When I told Ernie that we had seen a huge black bear and her cub walking

across our front yard, Ernie concluded that we had spent too much time with the old fashioned glasses given out at the 50th Reunion. Only after I furnished photographic evidence did he relent.

The Edgars appear to be thriving in their Auburn, Alabama, environment.”

Jack Boze reported this about our BR Gene Grayson: “My son, who is a member of a North Carolina Veterans of Foreign Wars, recently sent me news of a VFW award [the VFW Commander Award] that was presented to our mild mannered classmate. Not sure our brother rats are aware of Gene’s heroic actions during two Vietnam tours and surviving three crashes resulting from ground fire.” I have sent the full article about Gene to all of you via email, and it is truly amazing. Thank you, Gene, for your years of honorable service. At the 60th, we will want to hear firsthand about those crashes!

I would very much like to disseminate information about the military service of any of you willing to share it. Send it to me by email or letter.

It’s not too early to start getting healthy for the 60th!

Lee

’59

Shep Shepard

This quarter began on a sad note. Tim Mittendorf, son of George and Bunny Mittendorf, informed me that Bunny died. Since George’s passing, Bunny has suffered from medical problems including injuries incurred from a serious fall and a couple of strokes. Tim apologized for not letting us know sooner but he has been much involved in settling the estate. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Mittendorf family.

I received a nice note from Nancy Eskridge’s family saying how much they appreciated the beautiful red, white and yellow flowers and the many cards, calls and prayers they received from members of the Stonewall Class. The family said it was a blessing to receive such an outpouring of love and support during their difficult time. Rusty Loth, a close friend of Nancy’s, could not attend her funeral, because he was having cataract surgery. Rusty roomed with Tommy Inge, Nancy’s brother; he visited their home many times and felt very close to the whole Inge family. Sonny and Rusty

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Class Notes dyked in the same room and were close friends throughout their years at VMI. Rusty’s wife, Andrea, who died five years ago, and Nancy were good friends, and Rusty knows firsthand how difficult it is to lose a mate. Both were fortunate to have wonderful, beautiful and loving wives looking after them for 43 years in Rusty’s case and 53 years for Sonny.

John Van Kesteren attended a veteran’s memorial service in Angel Fire, New Mexico, where he was privileged to take part in a beautiful Vietnam memorial service. John carried a memorial brick for James Masotti to a memorial pathway where it will reside. There was also a brick dedicated to Douglas Wauchope, our other BR who died in Vietnam.

Jimmy and Linda Johnson are doing well.

Jimmy’s heart arrhythmia has settled down since his pacemaker was embedded three years ago.

Jimmy thinks A-Fib is more of a demonic possession and may necessitate an exorcism rather than a medical cure. Other than that, he and Linda are healthy; their brains function well, and they walk about a mile every day. They plan to visit Galveston soon, stay on the beach and celebrate

Class of 1959: Bill Lee standing at the Pettus Bridge in Selma, Alabama, following the 2015 Daniels’ pilgrimage.

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their 25th wedding anniversary. Speaking of AFib, Tex Carr is still struggling with his. The latest venture was an electric conversion from A-Fib and flutter back to sinus rhythm. They put him to sleep and zapped him with 50 Joules. No sync, so they hit him with 200 Joules, and it worked. Dick Bingham recently received his fourth pacemaker; the last three averaged over six years each. Dick is at LA Fitness three times a week and doing great.

He enjoys the Florida life and travels throughout the country as much as possible. His biggest joy is his five wonderful grandchildren. Dick is looking forward to the 2019 class reunion.

Bill and Susie Kirkland are doing well. Finally a bit of good news concerning Susie: They took their son out to dinner, and Susie was able to order something from the menu. Not much, but it’s the first time in ages she has been able to do so. She is beginning to experiment with different foods, and that’s a big milestone. They also went on their first road trip, about a 200 mile trip that wore her out, but at least they have taken the first step and are now able to take short trips. It will be a long time before they can plan longer trips; no more trips to Florida for the winter, but they will take what they can get.

The compilation of stories about Doc Carroll prompted Jim Reed to write that, earlier this year, he painted a portrait of Doc to replace the one that was missing from Carroll Hall. See the accompanying news article in this copy of the Alumni Review. (Editor’s Note: Please see page 173 for the article about the Doc Carroll painting.)

Also in this copy of the Alumni Review are book announcements for Spence Tucker’s two most recent books. (Editor’s Note: Please see page 169 to view Mr. Tucker’s book announcements.) An interview of Spence with Henrietta Verma, editor of the prestigious Library Journal, was recently featured in the journal. Congratulations to both.

In September, the Florida Group assembled in Sebastian, Florida, for their annual mini reunion.

We had a good turnout, and everyone had a great time, as was evident by the number of people asking when the next one will be. We welcomed newcomers to the Florida Group, as Bruce and Norma Mackenzie recently moved from Charlotte, North Carolina, to Venice, Florida. It’s good to get Bruce away from Charlotte where he was surrounded by Norma’s family, who are all Citadel graduates and have been a terrible influence on Bruce over the years. We also had John and Chris Patane and Buzz and Virginia Nowlin

come down from Virginia to add a little class to our group. We appreciate them making that long trip to spend a few days with us. Also from out of state but not strangers to the Florida Group were Carl and Phyllis Kasko, who came over from Mobile, Alabama. Carl and Phyllis have been regulars at past Florida mini reunions, and it is always great to visit and spend some time with them.

Carl can always light up the room by recalling stories of football trips while at VMI. Tex Carr came down from Fernandina Beach with his girlfriend, Emily Hanzok, and Ron and Mary Alice Marley came down from Orange Park. Health-wise, Ron and Mary Alice are doing great. Mary Alice even seems to be getting nicer as the years go by. Bill and Connie Nebraska drove down from Hernando, where Bill continues to insist that he is the “captain of his ship,” but it is funny how he behaves when Connie is around. Bob Haines and Monique Harnetty came over from Sarasota. Monique has been a part of our group for so long and is so indoctrinated I sometimes think she went to VMI. Mel and Jean Anderson came from the Tampa area. Jean was prepping for her 60th high school reunion in Glen Burnie, Maryland, where she went immediately following the reunion, while Mel was packing for Phoenix, Arizona, for an Engineer Organization Board meeting. Lee and Nancy Southard drove over from Fort Myers. Lee and Nancy brought along Nancy’s mother, Alice Burke, who was celebrating her 90th birthday, as well as Nancy’s sister, Alice Miller, a woman who loves her beer. Nancy’s sister, Alice, fit right in with the other beer aficionados of our group, such as Mel Anderson, Bill Nebraska and me. Shortly after the mini reunion, Lee underwent a shoulder replacement that went well. Lee is now in rehab, and the doctors say he should be swinging a club in no time at all. Bud and Denyse Kramer arrived from the Sanford area and seemed to be happy to be out of the crime capital of Florida. Our days were filled with eco boat rides and visits to the Mel Fisher and McLarty Museums that displayed the many treasures found from the Spanish Plate Fleet that perished during a fierce hurricane in 1715. Evenings were spent enjoying the fine seafood dining the area has to offer. The Sebastian mini reunion was so successful that we quickly planned the 2016 gettogether to be held in Mount Dora, Florida.

The best news that Bud and Denyse Kramer have heard in a long time is that their grandson, Tommy, passed his bar exam the first time

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes has been put into its recovery, and now around. He is employed as an attorthey are again focusing on the former ney in Chicago, and they are so very western portion; especially in Berlin, proud of him. When Tommy was where construction cranes are visible in the fourth grade, he was asked to no matter which way you look. write an essay on what he wanted to Ann and I spent a very special evedo when he grew up. He wrote that he wanted to be president of the United ning in Orlando the other night with States. The Orlando Sentinel, the local four VMI alumni. The evening was ornewspaper, picked this up and wrote a chestrated by Jay Nagle ’87, the VMI feature on Tommy; now it seems he is Alumni Association Central Florida on his way.

Chapter regional representative. We Bob and Lois Hobson got the chance met at a restaurant in downtown Orto visit with Jim Edmunds as he travlando, had a few beers and cussed and discussed the world situation. It eled through Utah during his recent was amazing how many degrees of tour of the west. They had lunch toClass of 1959: Don and Carol Messner in Berlin, Germany, standing separation there were between Jay and gether and caught up on things. Lois next to one of the omnipresent Berlin Buddy Bears.

Ann and me. He is a BR of our son, had rotator cuff surgery and has done very well in recovery. The doctor and the physi- their lakeside home on Smith Mountain Lake. Brett Shepard ’87; he was originally brought to cal therapist both said she was at the top of her In the fall, Don and Carol took a non-sailing Florida in 1988 by Bill Gwynn, who was then the class. Bob recently had his right shoulder replaced cruise on the Elbe River. It wasn’t intended to executive director of the Orange County Expressand, as of this writing, had just started PT. Bob be non-sailing, but unfortunately the Elbe River way Authority; he worked closely with Bill’s son, suspects that he will not be rated at the top of the watershed was lacking in rain. Consequently, David, a West Point graduate and a prominent class. Bob and Lois are fine and looking forward the riverboats were not moving, and they had to engineer in the Orlando community; and he also to a great and wonderful 2016 enjoying their 21 travel by motorcoach. They spent four days in worked closely with Stewart Barnes ’86, son of grands and 22 greats. That’s what life is all about. Prague before moving to another grounded ship Eddie and Carolyn Barnes. Jay is a civil engineer Penn Whitescarver had business in Tallahassee in Dresden, from which they were bused to vari- whose firm is currently working on the reconand gave Betty Sellers a call. Betty insisted that ous locations on their schedule. Three days later, struction of Interstate 4, the primary artery that Penn take her to dinner at her country club where they relocated to a boat in Wittenberg for four runs through Orlando. It is the biggest and most she pretended that Penn was her new boyfriend. days with the same procedure ending up in Bercomplicated engineering job in central Florida.

No one bought that line, but Penn did enjoy the lin. They enjoyed the trip despite missing out on Others attending the get-together were Frank Caevening with Betty. Betty is very active in the com- a lot of the scenery but were impressed with the ruso ’71 and Rod Lynn ’77, two other prominent munity and travels a lot visiting friends and family. progress the former East Germans have made engineers in the area; and Barron Mills ’96, who Betty contacted me and said that she would not since the fall of the Soviet Union. Lots of money is about to retire from the Marine Corps after 20 attend the Florida Group mini reunion because it was just too soon, but she does plan to attend in the future. As a matter of fact, she intends to bring along a new friend; the widow of our BR Fred Parker. You might not remember Fred because he only spent one year at VMI, but when I mention to you that he was the guy who could play “The Battle Hymn of the Republic” with one hand and “Dixie” with the other while perched beneath the piano, I think you will remember him. Unfortunately, Fred was violently murdered in Tallahassee a number of years ago.

Don and Carol Messner had a good summer.

Before leaving Florida, they were able to have dinner with Bruce and Norma Mackenzie after Class of 1959: The Florida Group met in Sebastian, Florida, in September 2015 for their learning that they had moved to Venice, just down annual mini reunion. Pictured were, from left, Norma and Bruce Mackenzie, Shep Shepard, Tex Carr, Emily Hanzok, Connie Nebraska, John Patane, Buzz Nowlin, Carl the road from their digs. They headed north, and and Phyllis Kasko, Bob Haines, Ann Shepard, Chris Patane, Monique Harnetty, Lee and after returning their two granddaughters to their Nancy Southard, Denyse Kramer, Mary Alice Marley, Bud Kramer, Bill Nebraska, Ron parents in Riner, Virginia, they spent a couple Marley, Alice Miller, Mel Anderson, Alice Burke, and Jean Anderson. of relaxing days with John and Chris Patane at

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Class Notes helping with her grandson, Fletcher, years of service. He plans to settle in a true Irishman who was born March the Olathe area just north of Orlando.

17, 2014. Daughter Erin and her husThanks for your service, Barron. It was a great evening, and Ann and I band, Michael, are both at Michigan look forward to the next VMI Central State University, where they both Florida get-together. teach, as well as complete other eduBill and Connie Nebraska insist that cational duties. They are both still revthey do not live an exciting or adveneling over the unbelievable win over University of Michigan last October. turous life and then go on to tell me Jo Anne reminded me that the grandabout all their many trips and great vacations. Bill went on a steelhead daugther of Eileen Dreelin Alexander fishing trip with his boys in October; (Ann Shepard’s sister), Sam Alexansomething he has wanted to do for der ’18, is a 2nd Class cadet at VMI, in a long time. They went to Ohio and Band Company and, from what I am Pennsylvania, near Lake Erie, where told, is an excellent shot on the VMI Class of 1959: Class Agent Shep Shepard said of this photo, rifle team. the fishing was great. Neither Todd nor “Donnie Dreelin would have been just as proud as grandmother Paul, their sons, had ever experienced Jo Anne Dreelin Anstett, who attended grandson Alex’s graduNot long ago, we had an article in steelhead fishing, and now that they ation at Parris Island, where he became a full-fledged Marine.” our local newspaper about the city have done it, they can’t wait for the trip Pictured, from left, were Alex, Hannah, Adam and Patrick Dreelin. of Wytheville, Virginia, so I immenext year. Of course, both of them outdiately scanned it and sent it to Dick Jack and Joy Angolia are enjoying the beauti- and Linda Phillippi. The article was about how fished Bill. Bill and Connie are planning to spend Christmas in Charleston, South Carolina, where ful autumn weather in Middle America. Jack re- Wytheville in the 1920s was a thriving tourist they will enjoy some fun in an old southern city cently was fortunate to acquire the entire person- metropolis located halfway between Cleveland, with a lot charm. Let’s hope the city has recovered al military effects of Adm. John S. McCain. His Ohio, and Jacksonville, Florida, on the infamous from the early October flooding that devastated documents measured well over a foot thick and Route 21. It was once known as the “Saratoga South Carolina all the way to Columbia. contain hand signatures of the who’s who of the of the South” since Saratoga, New York, was World War II Pacific Campaign. His awards in- then the Disney World of today. It was a conveclude the Navy Cross, Distinguished Military nient resting point for travelers as they journeyed Award with Gold Star all the way down to two from the “rustbelt” to the “sunbelt.” In 1950, the Mexican Campaign medals. He was an aviator dreaded disease, polio, hit the town, and things from the rank of captain right up to his vice admi- changed drastically, causing the town to become ral days. He had a very interesting history and was a ghost town. Dick said he remembers those days awarded the Order of the British Empire by King clearly. He used to deliver newspapers, but his dad made him quit when the epidemic got worse. He George VI. Jack has it all, and the documents that go with it. This material was offered to his son, remembers no one stopped in Wytheville; outsidSen. McCain, but he showed no interest. Thus, it ers would drive through the town with their car ended up in Jack’s hands. It’s going to be interest- windows up and mask over their faces. They ing to see what Jack does with this information. didn’t start school until October, and then no othDare I envision another book about to be written? er schools would play them in sports. Wytheville Good luck, Jack. had the highest incidence of polio of any city Royall and Geri Geis moved from Clinton, in the U.S. Some responsible folks in town even Virginia, to Naples, Florida, and are enjoying put up signs on the highway suggesting travelers new digs at 17010 Porta Vecchio Way Unit #101 not to stop “this season.” The next season never Naples, FL 34110-2788. With Royall and Geri came, and Wytheville and Dick remember the now true Floridians, we expect to see them a lot at past glory and tragedy that began in 1950. many of the VMI Florida functions.

Bill Lee, as he does every year, participated in Jo Anne Dreelin Anstett is as proud as she can the Jonathan Daniels ’61 pilgrimage in Haynevbe having recently traveled to Parris Island to wit- ille, Alabama, which commemorates the heroic ness the graduation of her grandson, Alex, from death of Jonathan Daniels, a true civil rights Class of 1959: Bob Hobson and Jim the U.S. Marine Corps basic training. Alex is now martyr. Jonathan was shot and killed by Deputy Edmunds met for lunch in Orem, Utah, and, according to Class Agent Shep a full-fledged Marine, and wouldn’t Donnie be Sheriff Tom Coleman as he pushed aside Ruby Shepard, were “attempting to solve proud. Jo Anne spent some time at Kitty Hawk Sales and took the full blunt of a shotgun blast world problems in less than two hours.” with her second son, Eric, and his wife, Julie, intended for her, killing him instantly. About the

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes same time Brad Willard was visiting his ancestor’s home in Walpole, NH when he picked up the local newspaper and found it contained a full-page spread about Jonathan and the local worship services that were to be held in the local area commemorating his heroic act which took place 50 years ago.

Jim Vermillion had lunch with Lloyd Thacker and Bill Fuqua at a Williamsburg VMI affair recently. Both had a lot of stories to tell and both looked well. Jim and Bet spent a week in Cape May Point, New Jersey, with Kurt and Ann Berggren as well as other high school friends.

Ann Arbor has never been the same since Kurt and Ann took up residence there.

Rusty Loth reports that things have been somewhat slow in The Mecca. They all miss BR Mort Eggleston, and their lunch group has gone from the LAME Group to the LAGMM (Loth, Addison, Goode, Myers, Martin) Group, but they continue to press on. They recently gathered at Rock Bottom Brew Pub in the fabulous Short Pump shopping mall. Rock Bottom is located on the second floor in an obscure location, and a couple members got lost. However, when the roll was called, they were “all present and accounted for,” and it was thoroughly enjoyable. Food and drinks were good, but it was not complete without discussing politics – always an interesting subject after a few drinks.

Things have been going well for the Shepards.

Ann is still having some problems with her A-Fib, but she is a trooper and is working with doctors to try to solve the problem. Immediately following the Sebastian Florida Group mini reunion, Ann and I went to Hilton Head for what we thought was going to be a week of relaxation. We found that my brother, his wife and some of his friends were there at the same time, so we ended up getting involved in a lot of activities – not the least being several days on the golf course. We had a great time and enjoyed the company, but we didn’t get the rest we had hoped for. Our granddaughter, Megan Shepard, continues to make the news.

Some of you in Virginia may have seen the billboards on I-64 congratulating her for winning gold at the Special Olympics. She was interviewed to become a Special Olympics ambassador, and she has been nonstop making speeches and presenting awards all over the place. She is getting to be quite the celebrity but handling it well. We are so proud of all that she has accomplished. We are looking forward to the next Special Olympics. We

2016-Issue 1

are told they might be in Germany, Australia or South Africa, I think. Whatever, it will be an exciting time. Not only Megan but all of our grandchildren are making us proud. The oldest, Patrick, has a great job with General Electric Co. in Boston, Massachusetts, as an aeronautical engineer; the next oldest, Phillip, is a graphic designer in Richmond, Virginia; and the third oldest, Curran, just completed graduate school at the University of Central Florida and is now working for Jet Blue in Orlando as an industrial psychologist and loving it. We have two in college – Connor at VMI and Avery at UCF – and both are doing great. The others are still in high school and below but looking forward to college. Next year, Collin will go to James Madison University in Virginia, while Lilly is looking at Florida State University or Florida Gulf Coast University. Zoe and Ian are looking forward to getting to high school. It is so exciting to watch these youngsters work their way through the college selection maze and on to a career. God bless them all.

Keep those cards and letters coming in, and don’t forget about the Florida Group mini reunion Oct. 4-6, 2016. We’d like to see a lot of non-Floridians there.

Yours in the spirit, Shep

’60

James A. Smith III

Greetings from St. James Planation, North Carolina. As I begin this edition of our class notes, I have had a reminder, by email, from my roommate G.G. Phillips that what success I might have had thus far in writing the notes I owe to his and Andy Wise’s influence. It’s always nice to know the secret of my success. I received a short but nice note from George Miller in San Clemente, California, along with a healthy check for our class flower fund. George says that, although some might think he and Judy live on the “wrong coast,” their family just won’t let them go. He promises to write more frequently.

On Aug. 20, Steve Sewell got a birthday call.

He reported that he is doing well. He plans to live to 103 years old so he can make VMI’s 200th birthday.

I tried to call Lenny Carmine in Indiana twice but no answer. He has no email address. Lenny,

if you get this, please send us your email address.

On Aug. 26, I had a great conversation with Tom Royster in Round Rock, Texas. He and his wife, Jennifer, have been married 35 years.

They have lived in Texas for about 10 years, having lived in Virginia, Florida and New Mexico.

Real journeymen. Tom went to the University of Florida to law school after VMI. His practice consisted primarily of managing estates and trusts. Jennifer is a travel adviser supreme and has taken them to 31 countries. Through her work, they have hosted cruises and seminars and have remained very active. Tom says she has clients all over the world. It was good to catch up.

On Aug. 28, I got to speak to Jim and Anne Powell. He reported that he is in good health and is active. He and Anne were at our 55th. I tried to call his twin brother, John, but was unable to get a correct phone number. The number in the alumni office is incorrect. So, John got an email birthday wish.

Henry Brown and I played golf Aug. 29. He beat me by three strokes. The big news in his life is that Henry’s wife, Linda, gave him – finally, after much whining – an Apple watch for their 52nd anniversary. Henry said Linda told him that the anniversary gift wasn’t the watch so much as it was that she decided to give him the watch.

Henry is indeed our “class techie.”

On Aug. 30, one day after his birthday, I caught up with Don Hammonds and wished him many more birthdays. Don and Frances were at our 55th, also.

I spoke with Jim Pittman Aug. 31 to wish him a happy birthday. He relayed that he is adjusting to the loss of Nancy earlier this year. Jim also reminded me that he was mainly responsible for our reunion booklets – not only our 50th but also the booklet remembering our lost brother rats.

He assisted Ed Tolley and “Peanuts” Elliott in those projects. They both were meaningful publications and we are grateful to Jim for his work.

On Sept. 2, I got hold of Joe Sisler at 8:30 a.m. at his office, already at work. When I complemented Joe on his industriousness, he related that he needs to keep making money to pay off his golf bets to Sam Horner. Henry Brown and I planned to play golf with Joe, Sam Horner, Otis Pool and Jim O’Dell in October in Pawley’s Island, South Carolina.

I got a nice note from Jack Seamon with a generous contribution to The Capt. Paul Bayliss Class of ’60 Scholarship and our class flower

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Class Notes fund. He is sorry he missed the 55th Reunion. course with “fellow bandit” Sam Horner. They was out of town for his phone call on Sept. 24, but He lives in Fort Myers, Florida, from October to won their flight in a member-guest tournament at we traded emails on his return. Everyone says they May, so traveling to fall reunions are best for him. Sam’s home course. He vows no more pickle ball. are healthy.

I left phone messages for Tony DiCaprio Sept.

On Sept. 10, I spoke with Bill Knowles wishHe has had some cardiac difficulties since May 2012, but while not back to normal, he is still able ing him a happy birthday. He is recovering from 27, but I don’t have a valid email address. Tony, to play golf. He says his infirmities allow him to back surgery and a controllable cardiac condition please send me a current email address. We all get “sympathy strokes.” and doing well. In our last Review, there was a hope you had a happy birthday.

On Sept. 29, when contacting Nick Delaplane On Sept. 4, I spoke to Kenny Scott in Pennpicture displayed of a get-together at Mike and sylvania one day after his birthday. We caught Betty Pitt’s home in Portsmouth with Mike, for his birthday wish, even though we didn’t talk, we did exchange emails. He and his up on happenings in our lives. After wife, Joan, are living in Myrtle Beach, graduation, Kenny went in the serSouth Carolina, are healthy and are vice, taught at VMI in the Electrical enjoying the beach life. They live only Engineering Department, went to an hour from our home in St. James, graduate school and stayed in the enNorth Carolina. They currently are in ergy business until he retired. He and an apartment but are building a house Wanda currently live on a horse farm in Surfside Beach which should be in Pennsylvania. He has cut back on ready April 1, 2016. Nick and Joan his numbers of horses, currently havhave three sons living in Chicago, Iling just one steed. At one time, he had a herd of 25 Tennessee Walkers. linois; Fairfax, Virginia; and Virginia Like most of us, he has also had his Beach. We hope to get together for share of infirmities, surgical and vaslunch and golf. cular procedures, and dealings with On Oct. 1, I caught up with Jon oncologists. He has kept the physiQuinn. Jon lives in Springfield, Illinois, with his oldest of three sons, Jon cians and surgeons at the University Jr. His other two are in the Air Force of Pittsburg busy. He is currently free of disease and doing well.

– one on active duty in northern VirOn Sept. 3, I received a wonderful ginia and the other with the Air Force note, along with a donation to our National Guard affiliated with the Air class flower fund, from Joe Morabit.

Force Academy in Colorado Springs, He has 99.9 percent recovered from Colorado. He is settled in and doing Class of 1960: Jimbo Smith with a surgical team in the Dominican well, is in good health and, like all of his pickle ball accident, from which Republic. he almost died, and is back on the us, vows to come to our 60th.

Dave Bissett, Howard Moss, Bob Clay, Mike Shoemaker and Tommy Leary. He is doing well as he gets ready for his 80th birthday next year.

He reminded me that he had gone to the University of Virginia one year before coming to VMI. He is well preserved.

I was unable to speak with Alex Dunlap on his birthday, Sept. 10, but left a voice mail. He also got an email birthday wish.

On Sept. 12, I went to the Dominican Republic for a surgical mission trip and returned Sept. 25.

Our project was successful doing what our team needed to do. The projects keep me off the golf course and off the streets. I’m very fortunate to go on them. While away, I was still able to get in some birthday calls.

On Sept. 13, I missed John Fulton, so he got a Class of 1960: Golfing in Litchfield Beach, Class of 1960: Jimbo Smith with a nurse South Carolina, Oct. 27, 2015, were, from belated email birthday wish. I was able to catch and surgical tech in the Dominican left, Otis Pool, Jim O’Dell, Joe Sisler and up with Earl Marquette Sept. 16, and Barry Republic.

Sam Horner.

Worst and Bill Driver Sept. 18. Mike Shoemaker

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes On Oct. 4, a day after Roy McLeod’s birthday, Roy Quinn, in Summerville, South Carolina. I’m flower fund. We all hope we don’t need to make I spoke with him. He forgave me for being a day happy to report he is well with no serious health a withdrawal!

Ray Crickenberger emailed Hap Miller that, late but was still enjoying his special day. Roy issues. I also called Jack Willard earlier in the day said he has the record of roommates at VMI over and had the pleasure of talking with his wife, An- after much house hunting, he and his wife, Tera three year period ... 12. He roomed with me, neliese. She has just completed four sessions of ri, have signed a contract on a house in Hilton Andy Wise and G.G. Phillips his last year. Roy is chemotherapy for her illness and is cancer free. Head, South Carolina. We wish to congratulate very active in his local Episcopal Church in Rich- Jack was celebrating his birthday on the golf them, and maybe we will get a golfing invitation.

I received an email from Hap Miller mond. It is always good to catch up regarding Ed Robertson. “Robbie” with him and Sewell. had a run in with melanoma but has On Oct. 5, I spoke with George recently undergone successful lymph Uhlig and wished him a happy birthnode removal in Charlotte, North day from all of us. He’s holding down Carolina. We wish him well, and as the fort in Utah. with all our brother rats dealing with On Oct. 6, I spoke with farmer any sort of infirmity, we are with him Ed Duncan. Ed related that this is a in the spirit. busy time on his farm, as his cows are On Oct. 27, I had a delightful birth“dropping” calves. It’s not only work for Ed but also the cows. It is a special day phone conversation with Frank day for Ed, not only because of his Ferrier. Frank pursued a medical cabirthday, but because the first Dunreer, becoming a cardiothoracic surcan grandson, Eli, was born on his geon in Atlanta. When I caught up birthday, as well. Congratulations to with him, he was in his office between the seasoned Duncan, as well as the patients. He retired from a successful brand new Duncan. cardiothoracic surgical practice and, On Oct. 8, I spoke with Bill “Elrod’’ for the past few years, has been treatCressall at his home in Mesa, Ariing venous disease four days a week.

His health is good and his work is his zona, to wish him a happy birthday.

Elrod left Boeing after 30 years and is Class of 1960: Sam Horner, center, when he was with the Wash- “hobby.” He has a place in Sea Island, ington Redskins, as printed in the book, “Sports Illustrated Georgia, as well as a ranch in Moncurrently well, enjoying life and out Greatest Football.” of trouble. My memory of Elrod is tana. The good news is that he doesn’t that he was the true “Roger the Dodgplay golf. I gave him John Powell’s and Joe Morabit’s phone numbers, and er.” We miss seeing you, Elrod! We all he intended to contact them. Frank remember that he and Bob Clay were roomed with John, Peter Houck and Eagle Bayliss’ roommates.

Jim Daly. It was good to catch up.

On Oct. 12, I caught up with SeaOn Oct. 29, I awoke to my 77th born “Seafus” Brown in Sarasota, birthday and spoke to all six of our Florida, and had a birthday wish conchildren: Four of mine and two of versation. Seafus hasn’t been back to Ruth’s. Late in the day, Sam Horner VMI since graduation but has kept up called me from Litchfield, South with Barry “Small” Worst. I’ll never Carolina, after three wet days of golf forget Seafus’ story about going home with Joe Sisler, Jim O’Dell and Otis from VMI one furlough. He lived in Mexico at the time and rode a bus Class of 1960: From left, Henry and Linda Brown and Ruth and Pool. Sam reported that when they started to match up, Otis was up to home to Mexico from Lexington dur- Jimbo Smith in Wilmington, North Carolina Oct. 3, 2015. his old tricks trying to get a medical ing a furlough. It was a 26-hour bus ride. What we would do to get away from school! course. He said he didn’t play well but did win handicap of 22, but it didn’t fly. He played to a 16.

He says he is in good physical shape, exercising $2. He’ll have to go to the Dollar Store to get his The photograph in this Review shows the “bandaily. In addition, since he is fluent in Spanish, birthday present. He is healthy, as is his 97-year- dits” at work. I’m just sorry Henry Brown and I he volunteers with the public defender’s office in old mother. Old Jack has good genes. did not make the trip, but we were in a downpour On Oct. 22, I sent a voice mail message fol- here in St. James and wisely chose not to go to Sarasota, Florida, assisting with profiling defenlose money in the rain. You can bet we got grief dants. Like so many of us at our stage in life, he lowed by an email to Bill Spicuzza for his birthfrom Otis for not showing up. I’ve found some enjoys being of service. day wish. I hope Bill will stay in touch. other pictures of Sam over the years. Included in On Oct. 20, I spoke with our class president, Jim Schaaf sent a very nice check for our class

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Class Notes these notes is a picture from the book “Sports Illustrated Greatest Football” when Sam was with the Washington Redskins that I discovered while browsing through Costco books.

It’s time to fold the tent on this edition of our class notes. I would be remiss if I didn’t remind and request you all to give to The Capt. Paul Bayliss Class of 1960 Memorial Scholarship. We currently have $160,000 but need to enlarge the principal to $250,000 to provide adequate funding for its recipients. Please make new or redirect your donations to the VMI Foundation to our class’ scholarship fund. There have been very generous brother rats in support. Please join them.

Please let me hear from and about you as much as possible. I look forward to many more birthday calls and hope I can catch up with you. It is a privilege to be your class agent.

In the spirit, Jimbo Smith

’61

Sal Vitale Jr.

My last class notes were published before the Jonathan Myrick Daniels celebration Aug. 16, and I now can tell you about several events sponsored by the Episcopal Church. In preparation for attendance at the Jonathan Daniels local celebration at St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church, several of us gathered the evening before at an Italian restaurant

(of course) for dinner. Those who attended were Bill and Joyce Gibbings; Irv and Sue Wells; Robert and Pat Williamson and Robert’s mother, Mimi; Sal and Sue Vitale and their grandchildren, Victoria and Jackson Cross; Bill and Wendy Braithwaite; Ken and Sue Patrick; Kenny Legum and his friend, Carolyn Gregg; Larry Williams; and Stu and Sylvia Woodcock. Robert Williamson’s mother is 98 years old and knows many of the brother rats. We enjoyed her presence. Sunday, Aug. 16, was a beautiful day, and 33 brother rats and spouses attended the service for Jonathan. Irv Wells and I did readings from the Gospels, and Bill Braithwaite delivered a wonderful homily.

In church were Bill and Joyce Gibbings; Irv and Sue Wells; Sal and Sue Vitale and their grandchildren, Victoria and Jackson Cross; Lt. Gen. Fran Wilson, member of the VMI Board of Visitors; Bill and Wendy Braithwaite; Ken and Sue Patrick; Kenny Legum; Larry Williams; Stu and Sylvia Woodcock; Ashby and Sandra Taylor; Garland Payne; Kim Wise; Willard Hoskins; Alison Drescher; Jim and Blair Bickford; Larry and Jerry Wetsel; Oscar and Caroline Mabry; Wyatt Durrette; Ben Lynch; Dennis and Jerry Curtis; and Bill Daniels. After the ceremony, we all went to brunch at the Leaping Lizard restaurant in Virginia Beach, and Robert and Pat Williamson and Robert’s mother, Mimi, joined us there. We had a wonderful time. The food was great and the company outstanding. Finally, Oct. 11, Sue and I, along with Larry and Jerri Wetsel; John Tharrington; Carl and Becky Hirsch; Bill and

Class of 1961: At the Olde Mill Golf Course in Laurel Fork, Virginia, for the annual BR autumn golf outing Aug. 25, 2015, were, from left, front row, Terry Fridley; Harrison Fridley; Jan Clarkson; Rhett Clarkson; Peaches Miner; Sue Vitale; John “J.C.” Miller; Jud McLester; Jeanne Burks; and Alligood’s friend, Peggy. Back row: Jim Bickford, Blair Bickford, Ken Ayala, Spike Callander, Bud Alligood, Bob Burks, Rod Hudgins, Doris Hudgins and Mary Callander.

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Wendy Braithwaite; Bill and Jane Hill; Ray Hanlein and his grandson, Joey (maybe VMI?); and John Anthony ’62 attended the dedication of the Jonathan Myrick Daniels carving at the Human Rights Porch at the Washington National Cathedral. The choir was outstanding, and Ruby Sales’ statements were very interesting. I was asked to make a few comments during the reception, and according to those present, it was short and to the point with an emphasis on short. A special thanks to John Tharrington for hosting Sue and me for lunch and providing a bed for the evening so we did not have to drive back to the beach at night.

Time is moving at lightning speed, and I have been trying to catch up with items on my bucket list before it is too late. Having breakfast with the Richmond brother rats at Joe’s restaurant was one of them, and I finally got to do it. I stayed with Russell Stone the night before (to avoid a 5 a.m. drive to Richmond) and Russell’s daughter, Jane (smile), prepared supper for us. Needless to say, we had a great evening. Joe’s In and Out restaurant is a neat place, and the senior citizen breakfast was great, as were the conversations with Dennis Curtis, Wyatt Durrette, Rhett Clarkson, Bill Daniels, Dick Youngblood, Bill Phillips, Dick Jarvis, Bill Nelms and Russell Stone. I plan to keep this trip on my list.

I spent several weeks completing the construction of a black walnut and cherry dining table for my daughter, “Judge Cathy.” I delivered the table (see Facebook for pictures) in time for her birthday and the departure of our grandson, Mark, for Valley Forge College. Valley Forge has a two-year associate degree and also prepares students for the service academies and early commissioning. Then it was off to Olde Mill for a few days of golf, landscape painting with Bickford, good wine and just fun with the brothers. You can see our paintings on Facebook if you are interested. Attending were Bud Alligood and his friend, Peggy; Jud McLester; Rod and Doris Hudgins; Spike and Mary Callander; John “J.C.” Miller; Peaches Miner; Rhett and Jan Clarkson; Bob and Jeanne Burks; Jim and Blair Bickford; Ken Ayala; and Harrison and Terry Fridley. The golf course was in great shape and as for my golf, well it was as usual.

Labor Day arrived, and Bill and Connie Helms and Sue and I had dinner together here at the beach. Bill is again helping his son in the administration and accounting for their home care business. Bill said it just keeps growing. Soon after, it was time for the Huddle-Browning annual affair

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes at Natural Bridge. This year, I stayed at Tom Bradeyesight is very poor, but he looks and feels great. in East Orleans, Massachusetts. The family came shaw’s cabin and had a wonderful time. UnfortuMike and Jan and all of Jan’s sisters also visited in from Florida, California, Pennsylvania and nately, Hill and Heather Browning were not there with Ashby and Sandra Taylor at their home. Colorado. Jim’s brothers, Mac Cranford ’65 and John Cranford ’71, and Jim’s son, Mark Crandue to a medical issue; however, Larry Williams; Ashby said the “sisters” were a hoot.

With all the activities that have been going on, ford ’87, along with their wives, children, cats and R.E.L. Huddle and his friend, Bee Gee Duncan; Paul Johnston; Barry and Elizabeth Orndorff; I missed an opportunity to join the brother rats dogs had a wonderful reunion. and Sue and I had a great time. Breakfast at the at The Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, West Dick Lindquist has been doing detective work Virginia. It is nice that the brothers have mini rePink Cadillac is something to remember. At Natto help me update our original class list of 346 ural Bridge, I saw Gerry Eggleston ’51, the past unions, and this one drug out a few we haven’t matriculants. Dick located and talked with Henry seen in a while. Those attending included Holmes T. Brawley. Henry was with us for five months, executive director of the VMI Alumni Association. Gerry introduced me to the alumni activities and Jeanette Smith, Ray and Sally Hanlein, Bill and then the Institute found out he was married, in the early ’70s, and I have always been a great and Sandra Fout, Lou and Pris Shuba, Spike and he had to leave. The good news is he is still and Mary Callander, Ed and Sue Fox, Dave and married to the same woman. While at VMI, Henfan of his.

Not yet out of breath and with time on my Charlotte Harbach. A few weeks later, Holmes ry was close to Tom Langdon and attended high and Jeanette Smith hosted a party at their home school with Pygmy Drescher. Henry has been hands (smile), I arranged for a Vitale family cousins party in New Jersey. Seventy-six first, second for those brother rats who lived nearby. Having a farming in Oregon for the last 40 years. Henry and third generations attended along with a few great time were Ray and Sally Hanlein, Spike and requested to be added to our mailing list and has of fourth and fifth generations. I can only hope Mary Callander, Dave and Charlotte Harbach, no email, but he can be reached at (503) 743-4243.

Len Christie will be leaving Oregon we can do it again. Then Gibbings, as soon as he finalizes plans for a Drescher, Ayers and I visited Col. house on Cape Cod. Why? Ask him!

Lewane ’50B at his rehab center in Bill Maurer is still publishing papers Barco, North Carolina. The coloon a variety of historic subjects. He is nel cannot walk but still has a strong now putting his papers on academia. handshake. It was very difficult for all edu, which is a good place for talks or of us to see him that way. He did tell speeches and, of course, stories and his daughters later that day that his research. Bill said, “At least this way 1961 boys paid him a visit. they don’t get lost when you downWhat a nice surprise it was to see Class of 1961: At the Cranford family reunion in East Orleans, size,” and interested parties can access a Facebook posting from David Massachusetts, Aug. 8, 2015, were, from left, seated, John ’71, Martin entitled three generations of Jim ’61 and Mac ’65. Second Row: Abigail, Sophia, Carol, Becky, them easily.

Eagle Scouts. Dave had a busy week- Benjamin and Sam. Back Row: Barbara, Susan, David, Bryan, Frank Oley has finally made it east.

Frank is living in High Point, North end in Richmond with an outdoor Beth and Mark ’87.

Carolina, and from what I underwedding on Diascund Creek, and the next day, he saw his grandson become an Eagle John Tharrington, Carl and Becky Hirsch, Mike stand, he is near his daughters. Maybe now we will see more of him.

Scouts at Stuart’s Court of Honor. Do we have and Jan Bissell, and Pete McCrary ’56.

Vitale’s final activity for October was attenda potential cadet?

In late October, the Badgetts finally started the Dude and Kathy Copenhaver came north, and ing the annual Wilkinson Lecture at the Virginia long drive to The Villages, and they hope to be their itinerary included a stop in Raleigh for a Historical Society with Bill and Joyce Gibbings there in time for the Chalkley ’72 Founders Day few days, and then to Mathews, Virginia, to visit and Larry and Joann Respess, where I saw Tom celebration. Badgett phones in Florida are their with Jud McLester and his friend, Suzie Melin, Slater ’66. It was a good lecture, as usual. The existing cell phones. at her home. Then the Copenhavers came to stay Dick Stone hosted a 1988 brother rat party at news about the brothers’ activities at the Hallowwith Sue and me before departing to Richmond een gathering at Swinging Bridge restaurant will his condo in Southport. Attending were Richard to have dinner with their son, Bill Copenhaver, have to wait until next time.

Stone ’88, Sam Tate ’88 (class agent) and Greg and his fiancée, Melissa. The Copenhavers finally Rollins ’88.

Battle Haslam was missed at this year’s Foundmet Melissa’s parents, and together, they attended ers Day and the Institute Society Dinner. Battle’s I received a telephone call from Dick HuneycBill and Melissa’s wedding. Immediately after the grandson, Wynn, (the 1st Battalion S3 sergeant), utt. He and Rita are doing fine. Maybe next year reception, Dude and Kathy went back to The Vilhad his Ring Figure the week after the dinner, so he will join us at Olde Mill or make the reunion.

Battle and his son, Bryan Haslam ’90, decided to Graham King emailed me from St. Remy De lages, Florida, to warm up. (Out of breath?) During Copenhaver’s visit, we had the opportunity to honor Wynn with their presence instead. There Provence, France, where he was having a wonwill be three generations of Haslams there. I hear derful time with friends drinking wine and seerescue Mike Bissell – who was at a family gatherfrom my sources that Battle and Elisabeth will be ing the sites. Graham said he has recovered from ing of Jan’s sisters at a beach resort – for lunch at our house. On short notice, Bill Gibbings and Jim moved back to Asheville by the time you read this. his recent health “adventure,” and it was a piece Jim and Carol Cranford had a family reunion of cake compared to others he has endured over Bickford joined us for a great afternoon. Mike’s

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Class Notes the years. When he returns home he plans to go fishing with his son, John King ’90, and his grandson, Graham ’23 (he hopes). (Editor’s Note: Before going to press, we learned the sad news that Graham King died Nov. 1, 2015. His Taps entry will appear in the next Alumni Review.)

Sue and I attended the VMI Alumni Association Williamsburg Chapter Fall Dinner at Ford’s Colony Country Club in Williamsburg to hear Brig. Gen. Jeff Smith ’79, deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty, speak. I remember the day Brig. Gen. Smith was born at the Lexington hospital. Sue was a patient in the hospital, and I was visiting her when I learned about his birth. We visited the nursery to see Jeff Jr., and since I could not get a permit to be in civilian clothes (even as a 1st Class cadet), I was in uniform. When we looked at baby Jeff and commented about the “cute baby,” we turned the heads of those in the area. How about that!

At the alumni dinner were Stu and Sylvia Woodcock, and I remember talking to Lloyd Thacker ’59, Marty Fisher ’55 and Garland Gray ’73.

Brigadier Gen. Smith ’79 delivered his wonderful comments with both humor and facts, and he did remind us who he was, which raised some comments from the audience.

I cannot remind class widows often enough; please come to our 55th Reunion. I did hear from Pete McCormick’s wife, Ann; Charlie LeFon’s wife, Barbara Jean; and Haley Garrison’s, wife Hannelore, and they are planning to be there. Anne Woodfin’s daughter, Suzanne, said she would do her best to have Anne there, if only for a day. So what is going on with the rest of our widows?

Gaylia Hudgins is volunteering on the U.S. Comfort Naval ship for Op Smile. There were about 90 surgeries for cleft lip and palate repairs. Ship life is interesting. Up at 5:30 a.m., breakfast 6:30 a.m. and “muster” every

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Class of 1961: Present for the monthly BR breakfast at Joe’s In and Out in Midlothian, Virginia, Aug. 13, 2015, were, from left, Russell Stone, Bill Nelms, Dick Jarvis, Bill Phillips, Sal Vitale, Dennis Curtis, Wyatt Durrette, Rhett Clarkson, Bill Daniels and Dick Youngblood.

Class of 1961: At the mini reunion at the Bavarian Inn in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, Aug. 19, 2015, were Holmes and Jeanette Smith, Ray and Sally Hanlein, Bill and Sandra Fout, Lou and Pris Shuba, Spike and Mary Callander, Ed and Sue Fox, and Dave and Charlotte Harbach.

Class of 1961: At the Natural Bridge Hotel in Natural Bridge, Virginia, for the Huddle-Browning annual affair Sept. 11, 2015, were, from left, Sue Vitale; Betty Orndorff; Barry Orndorff; Tom Bradshaw; Larry Williams; Paul Johnston; Bee Gee, friend of REL Huddle; and REL Huddle.

morning with the navy surgical team and Op Smile doctors. Sleeping in a room with 100 women three bunks high is another story. Grandma Gaylia is on the bottom bunk, but she loves every day. Gaylia asked us to pray for these children and families.

Mary Jane Roberts had a warm, long and quiet summer except for having had the water and sewer lines replaced on the street, and what a dust bowl it has been. When the time came to connect the final line to their house, a leak about halfway up the driveway showed its ugly face, and of course, it was on their side. Luckily, the contractor showed some compassion to the widow, and they dug up the driveway, found the leak, replaced a portion of the pipe and paved the driveway at no cost to Mary Jane. That was a very nice end to a very expensive issue.

Geraldine Nicholas stepped out of her comfort zone and made a solo trip to California and Washington states to visit her brother and sister and high school friends of Brother Rat Denis Nicholas, as well as a few of their Army friends from Fort Bragg. Geraldine is living with her daughter, Karen, after downsizing and wants to be informed on future gatherings, especially in Williamsburg. Geraldine’s daughter has a friend whose son just started his second year at VMI, and hearing him talk about his experiences at VMI brought back a lot of memories.

We have over 50 widows who receive the Review, and I sincerely hope more of them would give us an update.

You know you are getting old when every conversation includes a medical update. John Moore had robotically assisted triple hernia surgery, which went very well. However, he developed a bladder infection because of his multiple sclerosis, which landed him in the hospital for a couple of weeks. During the hospital stay, they discovered additional issues that resulted in laser surgery. John said he is on the mend and hopes to get back to the gym soon.

Mike Carmichael is still coping with

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes his Parkinson’s disease and is only 125 pounds.

When I visited with Mike, he said he tires easily and has great difficulty getting around, and I could clearly see that. Ann Woodfin cannot get around easily, but her mind is still sharp.

August was the Wells’ 54th wedding anniversary, and Sue’s XXth birthday (smile). I talked to Irv, and he said Sue is coming along. Her severe headaches are now under control. Sue still needs lots of prayers.

Bill Keech and Marcia are doing well, and Bill has been for the last four months. All the tubes and stents are out, and Bill was going to be able to attend the Institute Society Dinner. I will let you know.

Irene Gangemi is doing much better thanks to a new drug – Xeljanz – that seems to be keeping her RA under control, but unfortunately, fatigue is a constant companion. Overall, Irene is coping well, driving, playing Mah Jong and Scrabble and having a great time with their new granddaughter.

“Rabbit” Ken Patrick is feeling great, looks good and is getting around with the help of a cane and Sue. Thanks to Sue doing the driving, we often see Ken at the Gibbings’ beer and cookies. I wish the news could be better, but we are getting older, and it is what it is.

Losing two brother rats within 30 days is something we hopefully will not have to experience again anytime soon. Brother Rat Walter O. Stokes died Sept. 18, 2015, and it was a surprise to everyone. I was receiving daily updates from Ashby Taylor on Walter’s recovery from the heart operations. Everything looked good for a successful recovery, and just like that, Walter passed. Frank Oley, John Butler, Bud Alligood, Dick and Dianne Stone, Ashby and Sandra Taylor, Alison Drescher, Fred Ayers, and Sue and I attended the memorial service for Walter Stokes at the All Saints Episcopal Church Greensboro, North Carolina. Walter spent six years in the U.S. Air Force and after 35 years, retired from Burlington Industries as the vice president of sales.

Walter was a kind, soft-spoken brother rat, and I enjoyed being with him at many of our golf outings. I especially enjoyed playing with him, as he was always kind to me as I attempted to hit the ball. (I usually missed.) He was very encouraging, and because of his kindness and encouragement, I still attempt to chase the little white ball around the course. Walter was a great husband, father and brother rat, and yes, a good golfer, too.

Brother Rat James Robert Berger passed

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peacefully Oct. 9, 2015. When I saw Jim, he knew he didn’t have much time left. However, Jim set his sights on attending our 55th Reunion, and I really thought that with his positive attitude, he would make it. After all, they couldn’t kill him during his seven years at the Hanoi Hilton! The chemo was making Jim very sick, so he stopped it and left his time with us up to God. Brother Rat Jimmy Berger’s service was at the Manly Memorial Baptist Church in Lexington, and those in attendance included Tom Phlegar, Dick and Bonnie Hurley, Dick Weede, Bud Alligood, Jim and Connie Oliver, Judy Youngblood, Ray Hanlein, John Tharrington, Lou Kiger, Barry and Betty Orndorff, Ron and Fran McNemar, and Sue and I. Jim received a military burial, and the Air Force Honor Guard was very sharp. You may remember that at our 10th Reunion, Carol learned that Jimmy was alive and a prisoner. Several years later, as I watched the 1 a.m. Late Late Show news, I saw Jimmy’s face on the television. I was so excited that I ran around the house shouting, “He’s back, he’s back!” That was a time I will never forget. When Jim retired from the Air Force, he opened the lumber yard, and one day, I visited to see how he was doing. Jim was concerned about staying afloat, and we spent several hours talking about how to manage a sole proprietorship. I was pleased that Jim took some of my advice and kept the lumber yard afloat until his death. I will miss my chats with Jimmy during visits to Lexington.

We joked that someday, since we both had plots at the Stonewall Jackson Cemetery in Lexington, the last one to go had to make sure the grass is cut at the other BR’s plot. I will make sure that Jim’s burial site is kept clean and the grass cut.

Certified!

Our 55th Reunion is only two months from the time you will receive this issue of the Alumni Review. Should you not have received the registration forms in the mail, call me, and I will get one to you. Until then, stay safe, call each other, pray for the sick and departed, and thank God for blessing our country, VMI, and our class and their families. See you at the reunion.

Jim Bickford wrote this poem in honor of Brother Rat Jonathan Myrick Daniels: Murdered by crazy dumb scoundrels One hot day in a small southern town Now 50 years have passed around Your choice to die for Ruby Sales Helped balance the ethical scales Of justice and human compassion

You had a vision and a deep passion To shield from danger a young black girl And show to all the watching world That all lives should be protected Thanks to you who bucked the trends Much has changed to make amends But we together both black and white Must subdue our egos of being right And choose instead to do our part To continue your path with all our heart To love our neighbor’s interruption And share our gifts without corruption.

Tony Curtis

’62

Jerry Burnett

From Jim Cox: “Last summer, I underwent a full complement of treatment for Prostate cancer, and it appears to have been successful inasmuch as my last PSA number was 0.13! Otherwise, we remain in pretty good health. On our last trip from San Diego to Friday Harbor for the summer, we left San Diego and flew to Ft. Lauderdale; visited some friends for a week; boarded the Noordam for an 18-day cruise through the Panama Canal and got off in Victoria, British Columbia; then took the Washington State Ferry home. Great trip! We enjoyed a wonderful summer in Friday Harbor flying, golfing enjoying the ever-changing view from our deck (with an adult beverage, of course) and entertaining friends. Judy and I are looking forward to seeing everyone at the 55th Reunion.”

Rosser Bobbitt: “Kate has left Emmanuel Episcopal Church where she was interim rector and is now at Galilee Episcopal Church in Virginia Beach as priest associate doing pastoral care (parttime). By coincidence, I’ve just gone part-time at the Institute for Defense Analyses, concentrating on soldier weapon evaluations. In October, we spent a week in Brussels, Belgium, visiting our son, Max, and his wife, Kasia. Good visit with too much good food.”

Sam Clement: “As to my plans for the near future, I’m reminded of that wonderful tune from ‘Saturday Night Fever,’ ‘Stayin’ Alive.’ I was at a wedding recently, and you could see

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Class Notes the contemporary music being played wasn’t motivating much dancing, so I asked the disc jockey to play ‘Stayin’ Alive.’ He wouldn’t hear of it. It’s too bad for our young folks not to know real ‘feel-good’ music! I went to a church service some weeks ago in commemoration of Jon Daniels [’61]. It’s a small Episcopal Church relatively close to us (but not our church), and a few VMI people were there, though none else from ’62. I was a bit disappointed that not more were there since a notice had been put out by the VMI Club of Richmond, but the pastor said she was pleased with the extra turnout.”

Stan Henning: “I am working with a friend in China to produce a book to be published in China in Chinese and English on Chinese martial arts history. I coordinated with VMI professor of Chinese history, Wang Luman, to include an understanding of the place of martial arts in Chinese society over the centuries.”

Bill White: “Quick note to say I’ve spent the summer in our second home in Waterford, Virginia, enjoying a country life in the beautiful Blue Ridge hills.

One of my cousins, Sara White, a key figure at our family reunions in Scottsville, Virginia, on the mighty James River, died, and I drove down to attend her funeral. At her request, it was a graveside funeral, and I drove into Thacker Funeral home for directions. Directions were typical backcountry – ‘go back down that road yonder and take a right, it will be on the top of the mountain.’ I drove through the woods until I came to a turn off and a general store. I inquired at the store and was told to turn up the mountain just past an old yellow house, and it would be on the right. When I arrived, there appeared to be over 50 cars and people huddled around a gravesite.

I found my cousins in the crowd and asked who all these people were. Gordon White told me they were her school and her students. She was a very popular teacher at her little school in Scottsville.

Here in the backwoods of Virginia, I found what real America is all about.”

Jim Wood: “My ‘retired’ days are quiet

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Class of 1962: Howard Cobb celebrated his 75th birthday with Brother Rats Mott Robertson, Bowels Pender, Dave Wagner, David Plagenan, Randy Campbell, Dick Thomas, and Spenser Elmore.

Class of 1962: VMI versus Mercer University football supporters – final score was VMI: 28, Mercer: 21.

Class of 1962: Cal and Roxanna’s wedding Sept. 5, 1965.

but productive. No trips, no outside activities other than Grove and VN Vets.

Time at home is cleaning up the accumulation of five households. Oh, daughter and son-in-law took me out for my 75th.”

Cal Seybold: “On Sept. 19, 2015, I was inducted into the Mount Carmel High School Alumni Foundation Hall of Fame. MCHS is the only high school in Wabash County, Illinois. We celebrated my wife’s (Roxanna) birthday Sept. 22, my birthday Oct. 27 and our 50th wedding anniversary (Sept. 5, 1965) Sept. 5, 2015. Her brother, Stanley (Bill) Berry snapped the attached picture immediately after the original ceremony, while we were getting the reception line ready, and it has been a family ‘heirloom’ ever since. The positions and expressions of all present can be interpreted many, many ways – all for the entertainment of the viewers. Anyway, we added some captions and posted it in the local paper, the Mount Carmel Register, Sept. 4, 2015, to announce our 50th wedding anniversary.

We then went on an archaeological tour of ancient Rome from Oct. 1-14, 2015.

We were accompanied by our eldest daughter, Dr. Calina Seybold (the rocket scientist) on the trip. We plan on visiting our son, Lt. Col Clinton C. Seybold ’92, and his wife, Wendy, in Pago Pago, American Samoa, in January or February 2016. Clint is serving as the American Samoa Battalion Commander for the U.S. Army Reserve.”

Doug Marechal: “Glad you reached Colombus and Lewis; they’ll do a great job on the 55th Reunion committee! In addition to the regular crowd of BRs I routinely see at the VMI football game, this past weekend (Oct. 17), we met with Buck Bradley, John Mott Robertson and Howard Cobb.” Class agent note: Doug has dedicated most of his life to VMI. I thought you’d like to see some of his efforts in our twilight years: He’s been on the Keydet Club board for many years; past president of the Alumni Association 2002-04; had one year with Si Bunting ’63 as superintendent and one year with Binnie as superintendent. It was always a supreme privilege for him to introduce

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Binnie and Pam at alumni functions! He’s currently serving on the Alumni Association board as a past president and on the nominating committee and senior alumni committee – all labors of love, and living only 45 minutes away sure helps!

George Collins: “Spent three weeks with granddaughter in Europe this summer. Just started to play golf again after 3-plus months of shoulder rehab due to a sailing accident – very badly torn rotator cuff. I am visiting executive at American University business school next week talking on corporate strategy, risk management and investments. BRs in the D.C. area that week of Oct. 26, please stop in and help.”

John Anthony: “I’m in New York City at the moment (Oct. 19) to present retired four-star Gen. Wesley K. Clark, former NATO commander and commander Supreme Allied Forces (Europe), a lifetime achievement award at the Union League Club. The club, which boasts portraits of practically every Republican Party president, was established in 1863 by the city’s business elite eager to boost Lincoln’s flagging spirits and strengthen his fading resolve, then withering under the weight of his wonder as to whether he would be able to keep the Union together. That he did. Clark’s resume of achievements in the service of our country is extraordinary to the point of being almost unbelievable of attainment by a young man starting out – he was first in his class at West Point and was a Rhodes scholar, as well – in today’s times. More about our class president’s accomplishments in his spare time: Some may have read about HRH Saudi Arabian Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Al-Sa’ud having recently decided to donate his entire $32 billion fortune to charity upon his death. Shortly before doing so, Prince Alwaleed appointed John to serve as chair of a consortium of the six most

Class of 1962: Jim and Judy Cox on Panama Canal Cruise.

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prominent North American recipients of his charitable contributions. The National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations, which John founded in 1983 and continues to serve as president and chief executive officer, has been and remains the largest recipient of Alwaleed Philanthropies’ charitable contributions. This past summer, John delivered eight lectures at George Washington University’s Elliott School of International Affairs on Yemen and the Gulf Cooperation Council countries: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. He did so in conjunction with the National Council’s annual 10-week University Student Internship/Work-Study Program and Academic Seminar on “Arabia and the Gulf.”

He also presided over and provided context for six separate briefings on the GCC, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Yemen on Capitol Hill for Members of Congress, congressional staff, the diplomatic corps, the media (including C-SPAN) and national security specialists; he addressed the sixth annual meeting of the Gulf Research Center at Kings College at Cambridge University; and in Paris was a guest of the French Foreign Ministry’s l’Institut du Monde Arabe. The institute, which receives a million visitors a year, is the Western world’s largest, oldest and most extensively visited educational complex dedicated to enhancing awareness and appreciation of Arab culture, Arab civilization and the Arabic language. John is spearheading an effort to establish a similar institute in the District of Columbia for members of Congress, congressional staff, public affairs associations, educational and cultural institutions, students, scholars, and the general public. John also contributed a chapter on “America’s Strategic ‘Pivot’ from Arabia to Asia: Myth or Folly?” to a book on national security challenges confronting the United States in Arabia and the Gulf (Tim Niblock and Steven Hook, eds., Berlin: Gerlach, 2015); authored a monograph on Saudi Arabia-U.S. relations in conjunction with King Salman’s visit with President Obama in early September; and was one of two VMI alumni present at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., to meet with Ms. Ruby Sales for the unveiling of a bust of the late Jonathan Myrick Daniels ’61, recently declared a saint by the Anglican Church (Church of England). As most of our class is aware, Jon was valedictorian of the class ahead of us. Daniels and Anthony were fellow squad and platoon members in Bravo Company, fellow English majors for two years under the late Col. Herbert Nash Dillard, fellow members of the

Episcopal Cadet Vestry at Robert E. Lee Memorial Episcopal Church in Lexington and sat together at the same table in the mess hall for more than 200 meals when we were cadets. Ms. Sales, with whom John met privately, lives because Jon Daniels died. In late August 1965, Jon took the blast intended for her fired by a white storeowner who refused to sell soft drinks to Sales and her mainly African-American volunteers whom Jon led in conjunction with the Civil Rights and Voter Registration Acts following the marches in Selma, Alabama. In October, John also organized, facilitated, presided over and provided context for the National Council’s 24th Annual Arab-U.S. Policymakers Conference, which, for the sixth year in succession, drew more than 1,200 registrants. The conference was once again aired live by C-SPAN, which enabled millions worldwide to view the proceedings. Thanks to the renewed generosity of Sam Witt ’58, three VMI cadets were able to attend the entire conference, which was held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in the center of the nation’s capital.”

Weldon Eddins: “Thought I would send picture of Pat Morrison and I during our annual fishing visit at my Maryland summer home. We do this once or twice each year and normally have the same result. Nancy and I will be returning to our Hawaii home the first of November and would be happy to welcome any brother rats for a lunch or dinner get together. Please contact us upon your arrival.”

Ran Hamner: “Allison and I spent two marvelous weeks in Spain with Bob and Nancy Mitchell and John and Kristine Candler at the end of September. Talk about your amazing time! If you ever want a totally seamless travel two weeks, invite yourself along. Nancy researches and plans a fascinating itinerary. Bob attends to every detail on the ground – ordering every ticket in advance, deciphering the subway schedule and ticket machines, solving the puzzle of Spanish ATMs and ordering unrecognizable things on the menu.

John, ever the L.A., does nothing! We had the best time – ‘Wheels up’ every morning around 9:00 and ‘over serving’ each other with wines of every vintage. What an adventure! Our travels were only complicated by our Spanish GPS, which we finally realized was a random directions generator. I can’t believe we ever found Madrid or Barcelona. So much fun! Great memories! Great stories! I also just returned from a week in Michigan sandwiched around two Michigan home football

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Class Notes games. During the week, I drove up to Indian River to stay with Bill “Peanuts” Elliott ’60. He and I are dear friends from our earliest days out of VMI. I was probably over his radiator at the Institute, but we have forgotten that part. Bill has a wonderful inventory of Army equipment, including a World War II vintage jeep. Very cool! He also has an M-1 which he had on the table in a bracket. Bill challenged me to field strip it and put it back together.

Of course, I jumped right in. It took about five minutes to get it apart and about 15 minutes to put it together. I used up all the pieces, and the bolt stayed open for inspection. No green paint. Some of you may have seen the last play of the Michigan versus Michigan State game on some sports show.

It was as bad as it looked. 112,000 fans were frozen in disbelief. I do not have enough years left to get over it. Bring on Ohio State.”

Howard Cobb: “Nell and I spent most of September in Europe. We spent three days in Amsterdam with a one day side trip to Brugge, Belgium.

Then we boarded a river boat for a cruise up the Rhine and the Moselle Rivers for 12 days. We were wined and dined and pampered the entire time.

Along the way, we saw many interesting sights in Holland, Germany, Luxembourg, France and finally Basel, Switzerland. Then we concluded our trip with seven days in London. One of the highlights was a tour of Buckingham Palace, which only happens in August and September when the queen is in Scotland. Earlier in the summer, I celebrated my 75th birthday with a gathering of brother rats – namely Mott Robertson, Bowles Pender, David Wagner, David Plageman, Randy Campbell, Dick Thomas and Spencer Elmore. I hope all brother rats are having a wonderful fall.

We are enjoying lovely weather here right now.”

Walter Perrin: “We have had a great summer!

We spent two weeks in Spain visiting Barcelona, San Sebastian and Madrid. Had never been there and would go back! We tied it into a cousin’s wedding in Barcelona! Then we spent family time at the beach. In addition, we put our house on the market! Plan to move to a condo two blocks away.

As I write this, we are finalizing a contract! I have spent some time working on the capital campaign.

It is really going well. The role in the cabinet is most interesting. I spent last weekend in Lexington speaking to the Parents Council. They are really supportive and think the world of BR Peay – get in line! Hope to see a lot of you at the Founders Day celebration! Here is picture from Parents Weekend taken by Carolyn Worrell in front of Dee’s tree!

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VMI at Mercer University football game – we won 28-21!”

Wally Turnage: “Just a note to let you know that Mary Sue and I just returned from a couple of weeks in Europe that included a Rhine River Cruise from Basel, Switzerland, to Amsterdam.

While there, we spent two days each in Zurich and Lucerne and three in Amsterdam. This was our gift to ourselves in anticipation of our 50th anniversary, which is next year. It was a great time.

After retirement at the end of 2013, I’ve kept busy with volunteer work at church and watching grandsons wrestle and play baseball. All in all, we’re feeling good and enjoying life. Son Brian ’95 and his family are here in Richmond, while daughter Mary Anne is in Atlanta with her family, so we make that trip a couple of times a year.”

John Allen: “Joyce and I returned home from a long weekend in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, where we celebrated her 80th birthday with our children and grandchildren at our son’s farm.

‘Vandalia,’ his home, overlooks the Potomac River for three quarters of a mile and Antietam Battlefield. It also borders the National Conservation Training Center, which we toured Saturday. (For those familiar with Garden and Gun Magazine, Johnny’s home and grounds will be featured in the December/January issue.) The celebration was complete with Zambelli fireworks.”

Skip Davis: “News from the Davis family is that

Class of 1962: Ran Hamner with a fully reassembled M-1 rifle.

we are doing well. I just crossed the 75 barrier celebrating and grateful for my many blessings. Not to be outdone by the tech world and keeping me challenged, my family gift was an Apple watch, aka a ‘Dick Tracy’ communicator! Actually, it is pretty neat and practical! I get a kick out of demonstrating it for younger people who are impressed – not with me but the watch – but surprised that someone my age can handle it. As you can tell, we survived the fire season, which was the worst one yet. Dry conditions and winds made it a major challenge. One got the feeling that with the right conditions, fires could exceed the capacity of the firefighters and much more damage could occur. Thanks to the valiant efforts of the many who fought these fires across the west; they made a huge difference in outcome for many. While we live where there is fire potential, we escaped but had weeks of smoke so dense that it was not pleasant to be outside. Back to normal now but praying for an active winter of rain and snow. Our annual fly fishing trip to Montana was a great success, and the rivers were OK in spite of the conditions.

I fished Hebgen Lake, site of the 1959 Yellowstone earthquake. Terrific fishing for very large Rainbow and German Browns in the two to five pound range with an 82-year-old guide who can teach you more in a day than you could learn in a lifetime. Planning a cruise in 2016 to the Dalmatian Coast if the refugee problem settles down, or alternately, the Panama Canal. Looking forward to visiting at our reunion.”

Ed Northrop: “One of our classmates, Tony Bueschen, who left for the UVa medical school after our junior year, is now retired and lives in ‘Hotlanta.’ His grandson, Bo Bueschen, attends school with one of our grandsons, Bryce, here in Albany, Georgia. Bryce is the son of Todd Northrop ’90.

They both play football and baseball together.

Tony and his wife, Norma Jean, attend several of the games – small world. In fact, Bo, Bryce and our entire family attended the VMI versus Mercer football game Oct. 24 in Macon, Georgia. (28-21, go VMI!)” Marcus Muth: “This is an old farm, and interesting things pop up from time to time. I found this sign a while back and probably had the same reaction you do. A true ‘sign of the times.’ It’s a real sign from the 1940s. What hurts is that this was meaningful when we were children, and 50 bucks was quite an incentive to hunt down and turn in these lowlifes. Moreover, it’s nice to know The Kentucky Farmer Protective Service was on

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the job. We still have some trespassers and thieves around – my farmhand had his deer stand stolen this weekend – but nowadays, I think most of them have moved to Frankfort or Washington – especially the swindlers. Anyway, a little bit of Americana to fill in the blanks.”

George Barnes: “My daughter, Ashley, and I just returned from a trip to D.C. where she ran the Marine Corps Marathon. On the way we spent a night in Buena Vista with my roommate, Lewis Graybill, and attended the Rockbridge County Alumni Association meeting at Moody Hall. Columbus Cartwright and his wife were also there.

I had the pleasure of talking to John Knapp ’54, former superintendent and one of my great instructors in the civil engineering department. He looks remarkably well and in much better shape than men half his age. There was a good presentation on the status of work on the new indoor track and cadet fitness center buildings. Both are major projects and another tribute to Binnie’s leadership. As we were enjoying a drink and conversation, four helos suddenly swept over the trees and landed on the Parade Ground where groups of cadets in fatigues loaded and quickly disappeared into the sky. Nothing like that ever happened when we were there.”

Best wishes. Think April 2017!

Tony and Jerry

’63

Michael J. Curley

I’m a bit late starting the notes this time around for a number of reasons. Of course, procrastination ranks at the top with business and personal concerns a close second. Then, if we add in a trip to Lexington for the Wofford game to introduce a young prospective cadet recruit and his dad to VMI, the end result is that I’m about to bust a deadline!

I have been pre-occupied with the health of one of my closest personal friends who now has a mechanical heart assist device and is awaiting a heart transplant at age 58, and I ask you to please pray for him.

Actually, I am glad that I waited this late to write, because this Saturday’s venture to Lexington was both invigorating and inspiring to me.

Introducing this young man to VMI refreshed my spirit after having to deal with a couple of

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distasteful matters presented to me by Brother Rats that frankly brought me to the verge of throwing in the towel.

Yesterday was a wonderful experience touring the Institute. Charlie and Lynne Straub’s inviting tailgate first, then Club Crozet, Jackson Memorial Hall, the Jonathon Daniels ’61 Memorial Garden, the PX and the barracks where he saw the discipline of the Rat Line enforced firmly but fairly by my grandson, Cole Spicer ’16. Times have certainly changed from our time, but Cole and his roommates were up to the task of convincing one of their rats that he must comply with the rules… never have I been so impressed by these young 1st Classmen’s maturity in dealing with a potential break in discipline. It was a true demonstration of their development into citizen-soldiers thus fulfilling the VMI mission and tradition.

So what’s happened since the last notes? In August, Tom and Yvonne Myers visited Chuck and Christi Weddington. David Dibbs wrote to see if he could scare up a crowd to attend The Citadel game in Charleston, and I fumbled the ball by not getting the word out in time. Sorry, David. Won’t happen again! He wrote further that “I look forward to receiving the Alumni Review each quarter, but when I saw the cover of 2015-Issue 3 my first reaction was OMG. The picture was apparently taken at a spring reunion parade, so there’s really no excuse for the terrible lines. We looked much better back in the Old Corps, right?” (mjc: Oddly enough, I received several similar comments. Hmm?) Artie Phaup wrote, “I received a call from Charlie Talbott wanting the email address of the Alumni Review editor. He was concerned that the cover photo was a bad choice. Cadets poorly dressed right while passing in review. I went back and relooked it – he’s right! Oh, well...”

Lew and Gloria Nemir also wrote in August.

“Thanks for the picture. I will be in Lexington next weekend for a wedding. Are any of our classmates located there? I don’t know if I will have time to visit or even contact anyone, but just in case, would you have contact information?” (mjc: For everyone’s information, contact information for the Class of ’63 is available online both on our class and mobile websites along with a great Smartphone app from the VMIAA that lists all of the VMI community. Call or write me for information, OK? “I get it!” writes Pat Kelly, “If a BR wants a starring role in your class notes, all he has to do is come visit you! I’m not sure you did me a great

Class of 1963: Maggie Straub ’16 with Punky and Wayne Brooks’ grandson, Michael Brooks ’19, after Hell Week in August. honor; more likely our BRs never want to see my photo again as long as they live! But thanks for the effort. A point of correction, the BR in the photo with Billy and all the German beer steins is Jim Ellis, not Pres Holtry. Photo was taken when Billy Wray and Buff DeLeo were visiting Jim and Tik Ellis in Temple, Texas, as noted in the class notes. (mjc: Hate it when that happens, but thanks for the much-appreciated assistance.) Enjoyed the visit with you, Peg, and Bob and Bromby Earle, as well as Crow and Linda Crowley in Roanoke. Reggie Smith’s death renewed my desire to seize every opportunity to visit friends and BRs while still mobile and able to travel. Hope others will take the same opportunities.” (mjc: Ask Mike Smither, he gets it!)

Pres Holtry wrote shortly after that, “I called Chuck Weddington a few days ago. Talk about a guy with ‘true grit!’ Holy cow, I feel pretty good but not sure I have the positive outlook he has. I asked him if he was still riding the gim, and his reply was: ‘I plan on riding it as long as I can!’ Good answer, and I vote for that! Also talked with Pat Kelly. We’re trying to figure when they’re coming back out to Arizona. Gwen and A.J. (the dog) are a little more welcome than Pat, but Gwen and A.J. won’t come without Pat – concession time, I reckon. Tony and Barb Holtry are going with Judy and me on another Viking Cruise on the Seine in October. Paris will be fine, but it’s Normandy I really want to see. Stay well and try to hold down on the bad news emails! Pres.”

“I am still laughing over the captions on the photos you included with the notes,” said Pete Ippolito. “Great job. It is pretty evident to your left coast brother rat that you get together with a lot of our BRs to quaff adult beverages and enjoy each other’s company. I am still sifting through the

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Class Notes memories of our 50th and happy that I went and had a chance to talk with a lot of my BRs I had not seen since ’63.

Keep up the good work as our class agent. All the best to one of our best.” (mjc: Captioning the pictures is one of the bigger challenges of this task, Pete, particularly when people submit them with sketchy to no background info.

I was chastised unmercifully recently for reporting a location incorrectly in the latest issue: ‘Not sure how a mistake like this could be made and also not be noticed in the editing process since this location looks nothing like Appomattox, is nowhere near central Virginia, and is a very familiar vacation/sightseeing location!’ was the direct quote from the complainant. For what it’s worth, his email contained three incorrectly spelled words ... laugh out loud!)

I simply adore Mike Smither! His email from Aug. 21 was short and to the point: “VMI matriculation tomorrow ... Turn on the webcams!” (mjc: Fell out of my chair laughing!)

Alex Scott, Pete Ippolito is looking for you, my man. “I wonder how many of us are still working. Do you have any idea? Mike, have you ever heard from Alex Scott? Tried emailing him a few times, but so far have never gotten a response. Alex grew up in New Jersey like me, and he lived on the Jersey shore. When I was stationed at Fort Dix, he would invite me to spend time with him and his wonderful family at his home. I think he was PSYOP in Vietnam but not sure.

Also, I got a nice email from Dennis Crowley. I emailed him about the photos you posted with him and Kelly.

He lives in Roanoke and has opportunity to visit with some of the local BRs. He told me he had just been in San Diego for Comic-Con, which is a huge convention here. I was bummed he did not remember that I live here.

He looks great in the photos.” (mjc: Use the locator apps, guys!)

Bunny Reynolds wrote: “Just finished having a new roof installed on

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Class of 1963: Tommy Myers hanging with Chuck Weddington at Chuck and Christi’s ranch near Waco, Texas, in August. Class Agent Mike Curley said of this photo, “Chuck still says he’s ready to go 18 holes with Bob Earle and still not give him any strokes!”

Class of 1963: From left, Catherine Hoge with Buddy Cato, husband Jim and Mike Curley after lunch at the Rumble Seat Grill in Goochland, Virginia, in late October 2015. Jim was visiting from San Francisco, and Buddy made the trek from downtown Emporia for the occasion.

Class of 1963: From left, Jim Hickerson, Hobbs Goodwin, Bobby Byrd, Tommy Myers and Leland Caldwell gathered before the Furman University game in Greenville, South Carolina.

the house yesterday, Aug. 20, to replace the one installed in May. (Yes, of this year.) The first was a cosmetic disaster – looked like something Andy Warhol and Salvador Dali might have collaborated on – so out with the new and in with the newer. Anyway, this led to cleaning out the attic, and you never know what you might find. In this case, it was a long-forgotten box of 27 VMI football programs, mostly from the Thanksgiving Day games in Roanoke versus VPI. They go back to 1947 when my dad (a high school graduate, but a devoted VMI fan) would send me out on the field at the end of the game to collect autographs from the VMI team. (Ever wonder how I ended up at VMI? God bless my father!) So what do you do with these things? I sent a note to the VMI Archives but haven’t had a response yet. They sure bring back the memories if you were a kid raised on the VMI cool-aid. Any thoughts? Will attach an inventory with opponents, dates, scores and autographs.” (mjc: I have the collection inventory on file if anyone would like it, guys.) Bunny added later, “Also have the Corps roster from our 1st Class year with company and room assignments for the whole Corps, plus ‘The 1960 Bullet’ (Rat Bible) which appears to have a bullet hole in it, our Ring Figure program and nine copies of the ‘Peek Size Football Guide,’ including teams from the Southern and Atlantic Coast Conferences from 1947-58. If you need to know who roomed with whom in 1962-63, I’m your guy.” (mjc: Thanks, Bunny, you’re always there for us.)

On Aug. 23, many in our class remembered Jonathan Myrick Daniels ’61 on the 50th anniversary of his untimely death. Jonathan is now one of a very small number of modern day martyrs in the Episcopal Church. Bill Shaner and I dyked in a room where Jon was a frequent visitor. Many of our brother rats still recall the impact of his 1961 valedictory address and then mourning his death in 1965; a

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes life ended far too early! The memorial service at St. Michael Episcopal Church here in Richmond was very well attended by VMI alums. I was honored to sit with the blue star parents of Charles A. Ransom ’01 at the service.

Judy and John Mills traveled to Waco, Texas, over the Labor Day weekend to see Chuck Weddington, who, despite his health challenges, seems to be enjoying his celebrity. Bob and Bromby Earle also visited Chuck. One of Chuck’s favorite visitors was Candy Prystaloski, who flew from Dayton to Waco to see Chuck Halloween weekend.

Area luncheons for the Tarheel Rats, the Swamp Rats and Richmond Rats are pretty well attended and provoke some wonderful storytelling ... we strongly encourage you to try to organize a group in your area. I’m happy to help with the contact information. The North Carolina group is headed up by Jim Hickerson and the Hampton group

by Randy Williams, while I try to gather the Richmond crowd; an exercise similar to herding cats! Each of the groups is pretty flexible; Randy shifted the Swamp Rats’ last meeting time a week forward to accommodate Mike Smither’s trip to the Tidewater and added a couple of people who don’t normally attend. The Richmond Rats had an impromptu gathering for Jim and Catherine Hoge a couple of weeks ago and were treated to a visit from Buddy Cato and Jim’s son, James.

Great lunch! You need to try it sometime!

The gim report: Chuck Weddington, Joe

Dellapenta and Dave Gootee, who is very limited in his traveling due to heart issues. Had a great visit with Dave and Agnes just a couple of weeks ago and got to see his precious Camaro renovation and the Model A Ford he was about to start restoring two years ago when he had his first heart attack. I’m sure there are more of us out there, and we’d like you to share some of your news with us. We’ve got a powerful prayer group!

Sept. 9, 1959! Mike Smither checked in with a quick email: “...56 years ago today...!” (mjc: Yup!) On the 10th, Kenny and Bonnie Reeder checked in with me with this news: “Kenny and I sitting here at the computer, just giving you a shoutout for Saturday’s game. We know many of you will be gathering beneath Charlie’s tent for some fun and good food and drink. We hope Maggie’s doing well, Charlie. Judd, we hope you are doing well off the bench. Glad you’re keeping office hours.

Hi to Cathy, Peg, Charlotte, Peggy, Lynn, Maurine, Crellin and Gerry and Joyce. We’re hoping VMI wins its first home game (mjc: Didn’t happen, Bonnie!) and many more to come. We met the coach at an alumni dinner. Very impressed with him and his enthusiasm for VMI. Also met the athletic director. Spent some time chatting with Art Brandriff [’59]’s son, Chris. Super nice guy. Hope this finds everyone in a good place – feeling best; families OK.” Agnes Gootee followed up my visit with an interesting observation: “While talking, we discovered that our youngest children were both 30 years old. Back in the day,

Class 1963: Fresh from another Swamp Rats lunch at the Hampton Yacht Club Nov. 16, were, from left, front row: Mike Curley, Randy Williams, Bob Earle, Beau Walker and John Mills. Second row: Charlie Amory, Jan Gray, Tony Holtry and Bill Bell. Third row: Bill Pearson, Frank Allison, Jim Key, Bob Walton and Bob Powell.

2016-Issue 1

the OB told us it was our geriatric surprise.” (mjc: No surprise to me, Agnes; I changed mothers!)

Had a great note form Mike Smither recently: “In October, I spent a week in Norfolk and Virginia Beach, staying with Ghada and Beau Walker, for our 56th Norfolk Academy reunion. It was very nicely done and included five of our professors who returned to give their sense of the state of the school then and now. Talk naturally turned to the many stories from those times, some hilarious, some sobering, and most given by the professors. It was very much during our formative years and gave credence to our choice of schools after graduation. In a class of 18, four of us matriculated at VMI; typical then, but unique now. (The first cadet sentinel was John B. Strange ’842, a Norfolk Academy graduate.) The rest is history. During the week, Beau and I attended the Tidewater ’63 BR luncheon at the Hampton Yacht Club – a real treat for me to see classmates. The original date was changed to accommodate my schedule – thanks much! We posed for a photo with a sign in support for Joe Dellapenta. (Depending upon which photo was chosen by our class agent, I am either in the photo, taking the photo or in the sinks.) Frank Allison brought along his reply to the revisionists trying to rename schools and remove statues; he brought his cap with our class emblem and a ‘surrender hell’ carving. There, that should show them!” He continued, “It’s about this time each year that I am reminded of our first resurrection. It was held in October immediately following Parents Weekend, which was perfect timing. We were up at zero dark 30 and separated into groups headed by upperclassmen, mainly 3rds. This first one, nobody knew what to expect, and we all suffered. The next ones, some of us got creative – either by going on the gim, attempting to get into a rat daddy’s group (there were few of those) or by evading resurrection either by slipping away, hiding behind bushes or buildings or, as a last resort, by sleeping in our dyke’s room, which I did at least once. Resurrection continued during the day with PT on the stoops, which few of us could avoid. But it built character – just look at us! Happy Founders Day! Mike.”

And, our latest post is from the Crowleys, who have been pretty active traveling. “On a recent trip to New England in October following a fun trip to Tennessee with the Tatums, C looked up Phil Vaughan, and we had a chance to visit with him.

He and C were able to catch up on their lives over the past 52 years and share many laughs over their

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Class Notes VMI experiences. We will see Frank Drake in a few weeks when he travels to Virginia for Founders Day. As you saw from Kelly’s picture, we were with him at Mabry Mills on the Blue Ridge Parkway when he was in Virginia in late July. We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving but thought you’d enjoy these pictures. The Crows.”

May God bless us all and VMI! Please remember our brother rats on the gim in your prayers and try to visit or talk with them soon!

’64

John R. Cavedo

cancer operation. No recurrence yet.”

Kerry Hines sent in a photo and a short note about a recent get-together at a restaurant in northern Virginia. Due to my mistake, it should have been included in the Alumni Review several issues ago. My apologies to Kerry and Marianne Hines, Bernie and Donna Hylton, Tony and Barb Munera, and Ken and Barbara Dice.

Don Jones continues to work on his family tree and Virginia history. “Have not had much free time lately between car stuff and the cabin project at the Museum of the Confederacy-Appomattox. However, we will be dedicating that cabin Oct. 17 at 1300 hrs. The cabin has progressed very nicely and will be a great addition to the museum and its educational programs. I will hopefully have some pictures and more for you on it soon. The entire project (homestead) will be known as the Jones Family Homestead and dedicated to my mother and father, whose roots in Virginia can be traced back as far as the 1660s on my mother’s side and to 1763 on my father’s side.”

Toward the end of August, Sherrel and I had the opportunity for an inexpensive cruise with 2,100 of our closest friends to the Baltic. We posted several photos of our various stops on the private Class of 1964 Facebook page. The cruise started and ended in Copenhagen, Denmark

Class of 1964: From left, Carol Allen, Mary Jo Jordan, Lauranne Kitchen, unidentified, Ball Bandy and W.J. Kitchen fixing a meal in a Kabbutz in Israel in October 2015.

Greetings to all brother rats and those others who take the time to read through our notes.

Without whining or complaining, it’s getting ships, and we prefer traveling with friends, this harder each issue to fill up these notes. It really trip was too good to pass up. We do recommend is important that you keep me aprised of your Holland America as a cruise line. The ship was movements and activities. Other brother rats enbeautifully maintained, and the crew went out of joy reading them. Too much information about the way to be friendly and helpful. We saw places what Sherrel and I are up to will get old fast. new to us and to where we’ll probably never reAs is too often the case, it’s my duty to report turn. on the death of one of our own.

Received a very short email from Richard On Sunday, Oct. 18, Leo Roach died. Several Beatty. “I recently returned from two weeks in years ago he had been diagnosed with dementia California visiting my VMI broth(Alzheimer’s is always suspected). Severs, Edward and Edmund Hoy in eral brother and sister rats attended a Los Angeles. Had a fabulous time. I very nice memorial service at Leo’s also just got my computer out of the church in Charlottesville. John Thornshop – clean up viruses, install new ton, Bill Tornabene, Ron Fischer, programs, etc. I had to take it back a Tom Myers, Walt Sykes, Kevin Mccouple of times. I hope to keep better Carthy and Joe Farley. Tom and the in touch with all.” family had notified Tom Myers quickW.J. Kitchen sent a nice, long email. ly. Tom sent the word out. He, Leo and “We hope you have had a wonderful Kevin McCarthy were close at VMI summer filled with exciting advenand remained close for the past 50-plus tures and wonderful memories. As years. you know, we enjoy traveling around The class plus several brother rats the world and enjoying many wonmade contributions to VMI in Leo’s derful experiences. In late August, we name. Also, there was a nice red, returned from perhaps one of our best white and yellow floral arrangement Class of 1964: Pictured at a restaurant in northern Virginia in March at the service.

2015 were, from left, Donna and Bernie Hylton, Barb and Tony trips ever shared with a small group of As an aside, this was the first occa- Munera, Kerry Hines, Ken Dice, Marianne Hines and Barbara Dice. you. It was our trip to Tanzania and the Safari Serengeti. Although all of sion we’ve had any contact with Joe (a total of three days to sightsee). Then stops our trips are wonderful, this one ranks right there Farley since he left VMI after 4th Class year. If with our absolutely best, and we highly recomanyone has his contact information, I’ll add him in Kiel, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg, Russia (two full days); Helsinki, Finland; mend it. Penny Kaliski, the wife of our deceased to our correspondence list.

Tom Murtha sent in a short email with his Stockholm, Sweden (another two full days); and VMI Brother Rat Dave, joined us for the first time latest (August 2015) good news. “Aug. 27 will Warnemunde, Germany (train trip to and from on our Safari Serengeti, and I am sure she will be be the one year anniversary of my successful Berlin). Though we really don’t like large cruise happy to tell you what a wonderful experience it

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes about his dad. He actually knew very little about was. We would love to have you travel with us; it. A number of years ago on my way to work, I don’t let life pass you by! As we have said previ- heard an ad saying the Lettermen would be sing- him. He only stayed with us a short time because ously from the Reebok ad, ‘Life is short; play ing at Langley Air Force Base. My thoughts im- his wife got promoted. (She was a news direchard.’ Next, at the end of this month, we are off mediately turned to Dickie Butt. He, Don Keener tor at local TV station and was reassigned.) I to Jordan and Israel and are getting set for that.” and Steve Giberson loved the Lettermen and often still keep in contact with Richard through FaceW.J. has planned or is aware of many different sang their songs. When I got to work, I cleared book. I asked him if he minded sharing a photo travel opportunities during 2016. If with his dad’s brother rats, and he reyou haven’t heard from him directly plied that he thought his dad would with the entire list, send him an inlike that. He is Richard Leigh Butt Jr. He was born in March 1966 and quiry.

Dickie was shot down in November Bill Crone: “While you and Sher1966. Richard said his father did get rel were cavorting around the world, to see him before he deployed, but of a few of us ‘poor folks’ managed to course Richard does not remember get together for a long weekend at the his dad. He is Dickie’s only child, Outer Banks. Bob and Cathy Warren and therefore his children are Dickrented a place in Nags Head and had the Carsons, Garbers, Thorntons and ie’s only two grandchildren.”

Sebrells stay a couple of nights. We In September, Doug Walker was joined them for drinks and dinner one hospitalized once again for serious evening, and then reciprocated the next circulation problems with his left evening when everyone visited our leg. Veins were transplanted, and new home on the Currituck Sound. he spent several weeks in the hosThe Carsons and Garbers were able pital before being sent home. Many to stay with us for the weekend, and as Class of 1964: At VMI in September 2015 were, from left, Cadet brother rats called and visited him; Ryan Miccio ’16, New Market Legacy Award selection commitalways, Don spent a lot of time trying most notably Butch Nunnally, King tee chairman; Cadet Tristan Silverstorf ’18, selection committee to teach an old dog new tricks. One of chairman; Cadet Joey Brown ’18, class president; Cliff Crittsinger; von Schilling and John Thornton. these years, hopefully I’ll catch on and Cadet Henry Wiswall ’18, class vice president; and Cadet Ben Dozens of you either called or sent be able to at least play a few songs with Washechek ’18, class historian. cards. Doug asked me to thank each Don on the guitar!” of you from the bottom of his heart.

Tony Munera: “We just returned Your wishes inspired him to recover. from the Baltic trip and visited seven John Thornton corresponded, countries in a little over two weeks: “Have been unavailable because Sweden, Finland, Russia, Estonia, have been in California to be with Latvia, Poland and Denmark. It was our son during a cancer operation. a great trip.

Things went well, and we are back as Barb and I will be going on the of Nov. 7.”

Nova Scotia and the Canadian Cliff Crittsinger sent a newsworMaritimes trip Sept. 18-Oct. 6, 2016. thy email. “Greetings once again Maybe because it does not involve from Moody Hall! This is my fifth a lot of long air travel, some of our annual fall visit to the Institute to brother rats who don’t normally travwork with the Corps in achieving their full acceptance and ownership el will join us for the trip. We are also of the Cadet New Market Legacy looking at Iceland in about the same Class of 1964: From left, Tom Davis, Pete Mazik, Cliff Crittsinger Award. I can tell you that the Corps timeframe in 2017.” and Buzz Birzenieks at the Lexington Golf & Country Club in remains in great shape. The three upTony, like W.J. Kitchen and I, try October 2015. to plan several vacation/mini reperclass officers, and their Selection unions each year. For 2016, there are virtually my desk so that I could see the rubbing of Dick- Committee Chairmen, have taken a firm grasp of a dozen choices. Contact me if you’re interested ie’s name on the Vietnam Wall. While looking the CNMLA and are fully committed to ensuring and aren’t on the regular mini reunion email list at the rubbing, one of our young engineers came its longevity. This past summer, through many (only 68 of our 170-plus BRs with emails are on into my office and said, ‘Ron, I would like to in- emails and phone conversations with Cadet Ryan that list). troduce you to the newest member of our group, Miccio ’16 (the 1st Class SCC), a set of compreRon Rogers sent in a really interesting story. “I Richard Butt.’ I was taken aback. Dickie’s son hensive guidelines was drafted to assist each class may have told you this story before but will repeat working with us! I was able to share many stories in the overall conduct of the selection process.

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Class Notes and Portugal next summer. The plans “Shortly after my arrival, Ryan aren’t firm yet, but it will center around and I met with the 2nd and 3rd Paris and a week on the canals of Class SCC’s for a thorough review France’s wine country. of what we proposed. The SCCs in Finally, this week we’re preparing to turn briefed their separate class offihead to Charleston for the VMI versus cers on the final draft and achieved a The Citadel football game. Attending unanimous approval of this updated will be Sherrel and me, Bill and Mariprocess.

“Each class now has its individual on Garber, Buzz and Jane Birzenieks, responsibilities in the overall proceBill and Lola Tornabene, Tom and dure. This will allow the lower classPenny Sebrell, and John Thornton. In es especially to observe and grow as addition to the game, we have dinner they near their own time to run the reservations both Friday and Saturday nights. Plus, almost all of us are stayselection process.

“Additionally, I also spent a large poring at the same hotel. It should be fun.

Class of 1964: From left, Dick and Susan Atkinson and John and tion of time talking to cadets, alumni, Sherrel Cavedo at a restaurant in Ashland in October 2015.

Recently, we heard that Joyce Britfaculty, staff and parents (during Partingham has had a minor setback in ents Weekend) to educate them on the award. It went with Overseas Adventure Travel and spent her chemo treatment. However, as usual, she is two weeks in Israel, followed by five days in Palwas a rewarding experience, since I only received chipper and positive. She, Jim and their daughter, estine (the West Bank). The violence started just Laura, should be an example to us all. positive feedback of what the Class of 1964 crea few days after we arrived. We walked where JeFinally, as always, my personal thanks to those ated. In addition, Brigadier General Smith [’79], sus walked (Mount of Beatitudes, Via Dolorosa, of you who call, write and send photos. You’re the academic dean for VMI, continues in his unqualiNazareth), sailed on the Sea of Galilee, spent basis for these notes. fied admiration and support of the CNMLA.” As your class agent, it’s impossible to describe two nights at a Kibbutz, visited ruins from the Mickey Finn for each of you how hard Cliff continues to work time of Herod the Great, visited the birthplace of and push the New Market Legacy Award. He is John the Baptist, went beneath Old Jerusalem to doing a great service for our Class of 1964. If you walk in the tunnels, prayed at the Western Wall, were silent at the Holocaust Museum, enjoyed have the opportunity, call or write him your apprea Sabbath meal at our guide’s home, had lunch ciation. He deserves it.

Happy New Year! Lots of news to report for Sherrel and I spent a week at a timeshare in the at the home of an Arab Christian woman, had Pocono Mountains of Pennsylvania. Lots of long dinner in an ultra-Orthodox Jewish home, rode 2016-Issue 1, so let’s get to it!

Great email from Charlie Smith: “Just wanted hikes and leisurely meals. We weren’t prepared for in jeeps throughout the Judean desert, took a the cold weather in October (night lows of 20s and cable car to the top of Mount Masada, hiked to let you know how much Elaine and I enjoyed our 50th Reunion. It was great to see all of our 30s with daytime highs in the mid-40s and 50s). near the Qumran Caves (where the Dead Sea Plus, as prior residents of Hilton Head and now Scrolls were found), strolled through wonderful brother rats and especially my two roommates, Florida, the hills turned out to be real killers. All markets, floated in the Dead Sea and more. A Jimmy Workman and Barry Walker. The Orsmaller group of us went to Palestine. We visited ganizing Committee did an outstanding job and those up and downs wore us out. Our son is a stuthe Church of the Nativity and Shepherds Field should be congratulated for their efforts. Can’t dent at the Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, so we had a nice three day visit with him in Bethlehem, the Tomb of the Patriarchs and wait until the next one!

“In fact, we did a good selling job with Jimmy and his family before heading back down I-81 and the Ibrahimi Mosque, the Palestinian Authority in Ramallah, and the lovely cities of Jericho and and his wife, Ludie, and got them to visit us in I-77 toward Florida and warm weather.

On the drive up to Pennsylvania, we stopped Nablus. The people were wonderful; the food Newfoundland this summer (Aug. 23-29, 2015). for the night in Ashland. Fortunately, at the last was wonderful. We were all very tense for the last We had a great time showing them some of the minute, Dick and Susan Atkinson were able to two weeks of the trip – especially those last five sights and were able to get them ‘screeched in’ to make them honorary Newfoundlanders. The join us for dinner at a nearby restaurant. A nice days.”

I got a call from Hank Cronin. They made an ofinvite is open to any of our brother rats if they and relaxing evening after a long drive. Dick had just returned from Frankfurt, Germany, and was fer (which was accepted) on a house in Lexington. want to come north for a visit. We have plenty getting ready to go back to Berlin. Plus they have There are issues with ground water. Hank wants of fish (cod) and crabs (legs) in the freezer and several trips (all obesity related) in the coming year. to wait until that settles. Elizabeth wants to move much tonic water to go with it – Ha! ahead regardless. Any bets on what will occur?

“I have attached a picture of Jimmy and me at Carol Allen emailed, “I just came back from Just this past week, Tom and Yvonne Myers our house in Bay Roberts. The picture was taken a fascinating trip with my travel group. Also in stopped by our condo in Florida to spend the in our family room. The picture in the backthe group were W.J. and Lauranne Kitchen and Mary Jo Jordan and her husband, Bill Bandy. We night and discuss our probable trip to France ground is of Stonewall Jackson just south of New

’65

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes “For myself, Mia and I are finally enjoying Field, the oldest baseball park in the country Market (the original painting was commissioned by the VMI Alumni Association – “Lord of the my retirement with a lot of traveling, watching (rickwoodfield.com).”

Johnny Mac Marshall filed this report Sept.

Valley,” by Dale Gallon). The VMI hat on the grandchildren playing baseball and football, table is Jimmy’s; he wore something from VMI and going to ballet and piano recitals. We spent 4, 2015. “We actually got to travel through Lexevery day. The drinks in our hands (Jack on the a week in Chicago in September followed by a ington in July on our way to D.C. to visit with rocks) are special in that the ice is from an iceberg week in Cashiers, North Carolina. A week later, some friends from Poland who were in the USA that grounded in Conception Bay this past July. my son, Robbie, called and asked if I wanted for a legal conference, and we gave them the ‘nickThus, we had a toast to VMI with a el tour’ of D.C. After that, we went to drink with ice thousands of years old.

Savannah for the convention of The Tasted as good as ever – Ha! Jimmy International Legal Honor Society even took back to the States some Iceof Phi Delta Phi, where I was elected as international vice president of Phi berg beer (made with water from ice Delta Phi. Founded in 1869, PDP is taken from icebergs) bottled by the the oldest legal student association Quidi Vidi Brewery in St. John’s. Icededicated to the promotion of ethics berg water is a big business in Newand professionalism in the legal comfoundland, as we have Iceberg beer, Iceberg bottled water, Iceberg wine munity. We had two cadets in attenand the world famous Iceberg vodka. dance: James Latta ’16 and Michael Keeps the winters warm – Ha!” Logan ’16, who are members of the John J. O’Keefe reported, “My VMI Hall of PDP (the pre-law branch oldest son, Sills O’Keefe ’93, has, of the society). Needless to say, they at 45, returned to Lexington to go added a lot to the discussions, and I to Washington and Lee University look forward to their continued activlaw school. An interesting develop- Class of 1965: Bill and Dale Donsbach renewed their wedding ity in the legal community.

“Jamie found herself with a new job, ment: He, along with wife Adele vows Sept. 26, 2015, in celebration of 50 years. Joining with the and son Jack, have purchased a neat family and friends were Brother Rats Joe and Sally Mayton and so we now have to plan our travel a bit Mickey and Jane Finn in Pawleys Island, South Carolina. more carefully so as not to impact her house right next to the Lexington employment. Next month, God willGolf & Country Club. First year of law school is hard and scary, but ing, I will be performing the wedding he seems to be handling it well. He of Mike Flinn ’80 in San Antonio. taught for 16 years, so the classroom That will be a lot of fun, and I am sure is familiar to him, and, as he says, that there will be photos forthcoming. no one is yelling at him or giving “We were, of course, very sorry to him specials, so he thinks he will be hear about Rusty Fitzgerald, and we OK.” just hope to ‘hold the line’ as best we From Bill Cather: “I have now lost can for the next reunion. After all, it is my two closest brother rats; first Billy only four years hence.”

Riddick five years ago and now Rusty And Oct. 23, 2015: “I am currently Fitzgerald Aug. 31, 2015. Rusty in Poland in the middle of their pardied just three months after his son, liamentary election. Boy, it’s tough to Michael, died of a sudden heart Class of 1965: At the wedding of Mike Flinn ’80 and Bonnie Jean run for office over here! The ads make attack. Rusty had shown no medi- Hoepke, presided over by Johnny Mac Marshall, in San Antonio, American campaigns look quite tame cal symptoms other than a broken Texas, Oct. 10, 2015, were, from left, Dave Gleason ’80, Johnny and gentlemanly, but they are enterMac Marshall, Mike and Bonnie Flinn, Don Bradshaw ’80 and heart. Having been an artillery battaining. I will be here for three more Mark Heslep ’83. days, and then I am off to Germany tery commander in Vietnam, he was buried with full military honors at the Georgia to go hiking in Rocky Mountain National Park. for a week to visit on behalf of Phi Delta Phi. I National Cemetery. Classmates in attendance We left two days later, and of course, he had my will be coming back just in time to wash clothes tickets, had made all the reservations and picked and change planes to come to Lexington for the were Bill Cather, John McEwen, Fred Viele and Mike Sexton. Also there was Bruce Seil- out the trails. All I had to do was show up at the Founders Day festivities and the Institute Society Dinner. See you and the assembled throng of our ing ’62, his brother-in-law. His wife, MaeBeth, airport. That is the way to travel.

“Tomorrow, Oct. 30, I will be pitching two class there. Thanks to Harry, I think that we will sincerely appreciates all of the kind notes she has received and all of the generous donations innings in an old timers’ baseball game (I am have a bigger class picture than we had last year.”

10 years older than anyone else) at Rickwood Bob Wilkinson wrote that the northern Virginia made in Rusty’s memory.

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Class Notes brother rats break bread together. “Since the reunion, we have been trying to meet for lunch every couple of months and would welcome other BRs in the area. We can also schedule a lunch when other BRs are visiting the area if they will contact one of us.”

Donny White reported: “At our 50th Reunion in April 2015, a small group of brother rats pledged to visit with Dickey and Barbara Hightower in the fall, because they were unable to be at our big reunion. Dickey is the softball coach at Wesleyan College in Macon, Georgia, and his game schedule conflicted with our reunion.

We made good on our pledge and visited with Dickey and Barbara Oct. 23, 24 and 25 in Macon and Lake Oconee, Georgia. Our mini reunion, in addition to the Hightowers, included Steve and Sue Irving, Greg Paynter and wife Joan Graham, Marlin Sweigart, Bill Loughridge, and me. We watched a Wesleyan softball game Friday afternoon, ate barbecue with the team and socialized at the VMI football team hotel in Macon, where we had reservations. We were treated to a great football victory Saturday: VMI 28 and Mercer 21.

We ran into the Craddock brothers at the VMI pregame hospitality tent: Roger Craddock ’63, our Brother Rat John Craddock and Steve Craddock ’70, who were having a reunion of their own. Dr. Tom Jones ’69 and wife, Elizabeth, met the team at the hotel Friday and helped provide hospitality at the pregame. We were also hosted at the pregame by Dave Nagel ’01 and his wife, Heidi Nagel ’02. We drove to Dickey’s house

Class of 1965: Roommates Charlie Smith and Jimmy Workman toasted VMI at Charlie’s home in Bay Roberts, Newfoundland, Aug. 27, 2015.

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on Lake Oconee Saturday evening and enjoyed a terrific meal at the Silver Moon. Breakfast the next morning was awesome at the Hightower’s lake house. Marlin Sweigart got the prize for driving more than 2,000 miles (roundtrip) from San Antonio. Steve and Sue got second place, coming from Philadelphia. I deserved a prize for having to share a hotel room for two nights with my old VMI roommate, Billy Loughridge.”

Dave Thompson lives in Sumter, South Carolina, and was a flood victim. Here is a portion of his story: “On Oct. 3, I checked outside before going to bed. We lie in a flood plain and have often had water up to our doorstep. But, as I looked, there was little rain falling, and I dismissed the predictions of flooding rain. I mean, how often does the weather forecaster get it wrong?

“At 5:30 in the morning, our neighbor called and said we needed to get out. I looked outside and saw water up to our porch. An hour later, water started to come into the house. Thirty minutes later, a fireman waded into our house to get a head count for evacuation. Less than 15 minutes later, we had almost 18 inches of water in the house and were climbing into a boat docked at our front door.

“We have been fortunate. The water didn’t rise much more, but 18 inches of water in a residence is pretty destructive. Everything we had below the high water line was ruined. Even things untouched by the water begin to stink, and the murky humidity grabs everything. Mold gets into everything. We lost furniture and some family photos. The only electronics lost was one notepad that had been left on the floor. Our kitchen cabinets have to be replaced, along with all appliances.

We also lost two automobiles, which means we will once again take up car payments.

“We are fortunate, because we have flood insurance on the structure and contents, but we have yet to see any money from the insurance while expenses don’t stop. Rent and storage are two additional expenses for us. Some furniture, such as bedding, had to be purchased for our rented house. Furniture, like so many other things, becomes either expensive or difficult to find.

“Our biggest problem is time. Our rental house doesn’t have cable or Internet and am now in the library using their free Wi-Fi. In the middle of it all, Jewel got sick and had to be admitted to the hospital. That really kept me from doing anything other than watching over her, because a patient without an advocate is in

a world of hurt. She is now out of the hospital.”

Michael Degman recounted, “Last July, I spent two weeks in Holland with my Dutch family. Sixty years ago, my surrogate father was reassigned to The Hague, Netherlands, and we lived and functioned entirely within the Dutch economy, housing and way of living. The young Dutch family next door to us spoke some English. Among the Dutch there are two levels of friendship – acquaintance and friend. When you repeatedly meet and converse with someone, you are, at best, an acquaintance. Piet and I were gezellig (from the Dutch term ‘gezelligheid’ which loosely translates as ‘coziness’) within one month after we first met.

That coziness means you are completely frank with them and they with you; there are no pretenses, no political or social politeness as a polish.

“When I arrived in Holland this past July, the matriarch of the family announced to the family that I was to be henceforth regarded as a member of their family. I had returned after a 57 year absence to be with my Dutch family and to do those things that they wanted to do, so I could get to know all members of today’s family better. We went to those places they identified with as Dutch citizens, which were quite different from what a tourist would want to see and do.

“Piet is a retired oncologist, and his wife was a professional chemist with a Dutch research and development firm when they married and had three children. I met everyone, including all the grandchildren in the family. It was a holiday like no other and was well worth the long wait. I am a retired elementary and secondary public school teacher and vice principal. God gave Piet and me different skills to reach different sectors of humanity. So, we have similarities and differences, but everything works out in complementary fashion despite the differences. I speak very little Dutch, and they are fluent in English, yet we enjoy the same cultural expectations of each other.”

Jeff Gausepohl reported: “I attended the Keydet Club board meeting the morning of Oct. 17.

Later, Joe Kruse; his former wife, Vicki; and I attended the football game and the Keydet Club Scholarship Banquet. My wife, Vicki, was attending the annual Aquarium of Pacific dinner in California on the 17th.”

I close these notes Nov. 1, 2015, a beautiful Sunday afternoon in Wilmington. My thoughts and prayers are for all the brother rats and their families as we join together in an Old Yell for ’65! ’65! ’65!

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

’66

Albert Conner

I must sadly report the passing of our Brother Rat Joseph Lee “Joe” Scorsone Jr. Joe died July 18, 2015. He matriculated from Saginaw, Michigan, and other than his time at VMI and Army service, he appears to have lived there all of his life. Joe was a history major and in Armor ROTC; he was active in intramural sports, the Newman Club (social chairman our 1st Class year) and represented his company on the Class Ring Committee. After graduation from VMI, he attended the University of Detroit, where he received a Bachelor of Laws degree. He practiced law in Saginaw. He served as a U.S. Army first lieutenant from 1967-69 and was in the reserve afterward. Joe is survived by his son, Jeffrey. It is never easy to report the loss of one of our classmates, but this is especially sad as we approach our 50th Reunion. I hope that will at least encourage more of us to attend and again strengthen or renew our bonds.

With regard to our rapidly approaching reunion, Woody Sadler and Team Lexington are finalizing plans for what promises to be a great series of events, mini reunions and memorable

moments. Rich Hines and the Finance Committee, together with Frank Louthan and Charlie Ramsburg and the Outreach Committee, are trying hard to contact every living BR. All seems definitely on track for April 2016. Thanks again to all the BRs who have helped or are assisting them. We will be having a wrap-up status meeting in Lexington Nov. 10 in conjunction with Founders Day and the Institute Society Dinner the 11th. On the 12th, I’ll be attending the fall class agent get-together to hear the latest news on the Institute.

Our 50th Yearbook project is proceeding well, and we will be working hard to get it together for you by the reunion or shortly afterward. The initial emails and instructions for your personal page and a questionnaire are being emailed. You will be asked to email your submissions to Reyn Young, Hugh Adams or Nick Hoskot based on the first letter of your last name. I will be writing the stories of those who have died and those otherwise unaccounted for. Your rapid response will be essential to a timely completion. Ray Saunders is completing the 50th Reunion Documentary DVD. Keep Ray in your prayers, as he has been hampered by some medical issues.

I had nice phone calls with Marshall Taylor and Clark Reifsnider, who sent best wishes to the class and they hope to see as many BRs as possible at the 50th. Both are spiritual men,

Class of 1966: Several VMI alumni and one current cadet attended and were seated within close proximity of each other at a Peninsula Pilots baseball game in Hampton, Virginia, in July 2015. The Peninsula Pilots play in the Coastal Plain League, which is an independent summer baseball league primarily composed of college baseball players.

Taylor Edens ’16, VMI baseball pitcher, is a member of the 2015 team. Present were, from left, Peter Diamontopulos ’13; Jim Pauls; Greg Diamontopulos ’75; Dillon Christopher ’17; and Bob Nuckles, a University of Virginia grad who was attending the game with Ronald Haywood ’53, far right.

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and I particularly enjoyed sharing thoughts and prayers with them.

I regret that I don’t have more to report, as this class notes edition historically included an update on the BRs attending the Institute Society Dinner.

A quick update on my situation is that we have begun yet another chemotherapy protocol in hopes of driving down the numbers. I’m tolerating it pretty well with occasional down days. As always, we’re awaiting the next scan and trusting in God’s will. Jane joins me in sending our best to each BR and SR. One last thing. Let me compliment you on the many generous, creative and varied ways you have chosen to honor VMI during our 50th Reunion and VMI Campaign drives. Yet another reason for my enduring pride in each of you and in our class and declaring myself “your proud class agent.”

May God bless you till we meet again.

’67

Jan Abernathy

Last quarter, I said Joan and I would be on post for matriculation and promised some updates on things in general. I hope you have the opportunity to attend the matriculation day events someday. It is nothing like 1963. Incoming rats are invited to Cameron Hall with their family by alpha groups.

They get to chat with their chosen major professors and with the various ROTC options as every section has a separate table. Then they are free for a while for a relaxed lunch in Crozet with their folks. Between checking in and the superintendent’s welcome speech at 2:30, all rats are issued their gym dyke and are told to find their room and change before they eventually return to Cameron. Everyone has an 8x10 card pinned to their gray shirt with name, assigned company and their room number. After Gen. Peay’s welcome and introductions to the major administration department heads, each company commander is introduced and calls his rats into formation.

When all companies are formed on the gym floor, the first captain takes charge and marches them out with the colors. The Pipe Band tunes up and in a few minutes all rats are marching out of the building and up by Crozet to enter Jackson Arch.

No parents are then allowed in barracks, and all rats are “formed up” by companies in new barracks courtyard. Then drums beat a slow march

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Class Notes

Class of 1967: Jamie Tate, rear soldier, as a reenactor at the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo. and all cadre members march into the center of the courtyard and stop. They face the rats and the first captain says, “Rats, meet your cadre,” and all hell breaks loose on rats for the first time. It is quite a show to see.

What else is new on post? The museum in Jackson Hall’s lower levels (in our old swimming pool area) has expanded with a new section devoted to historical figures and their firearm favorites.

This is on the bottom floor by the existing famous firearms exhibits. The new giant athletic building is coming into shape by Cameron Hall. Cocke

Class of 1967: Jan Abernathy and Howard Seal renewed their friendship after 51 years at Jim Rogers’ 50th Reunion Committee meeting last October.

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Hall (where we matriculated) will be given a major overhaul by the time of our reunion. MauryBrooke has been renamed Shell Hall, in case you missed it the last time you were there. I don’t recall being asked for suggestions or opinions on this change. As a recipient of one of Gen. Shell’s Penalty No. 1 (15 demerits, four months confinement and 60 penalty tours, in case you forgot) I am not certain I would have voted for the name change, but I digress. As stated before, the food in Crozet is nothing short of fantastic compared to our day.

But there are no cadet waiters and no table cloths.

These have been replaced by multiple cafeteria lines and plastic tabletops. Since there are no longer cadet waiter scholarships, I need to find out what cadets in financial need do for financial aid.

Jim Rogers and his 50th Fundraising Committee had a first organizational meeting on post in October. It was suggested that we include one member who had been a loyal BR with his support for the Alumni Association but did not graduate with us. Howard Seal left us after our Rat Line to go to Bridgewater College only because they offered a business degree and VMI did not. Howard values his time at VMI and has been a longtime supporter. He joined the Marines after graduation and later had a career as a CPA. He and Sandy live in The Villages in Florida. We spent a delightful afternoon together touring the post with Howard and catching up on his 51 years of being away from the “I.” He was in the Commanders and Band Company, so we shared many memories.

Recent personal connections with BRs other than with the 50th Reunion Committee include a visit from Vance Powell and his lady friend, Laurie. She was visiting Vance from Michigan, and they drove to Atlanta from Alabama to see an Atlanta Braves game and check out some local history sites. Joan and I enjoyed a too short visit with them. We joined Bill and Jo Fleshood and Mike and Marci Bagnulo for a weekend at Dixie and Bev Walker’s home on Lake Hartwell, South Carolina. The guys and Joan went to the Furman University versus VMI football game, and the other wives went antique shopping. The game resulted in a loss to the Purple Paladins on a chilly drizzling afternoon. A highlight for me was seeing Bob Ward (my roommate for three years) for the first time since graduation. He and Becky drove up with Bob and June Klink from the South Carolina coast to Greenville to see the game.

In addition to Ron Lowry’s almost weekly Facebook photos of his fishing trips – and fish

– he sent the following when I asked about his annual fall elk hunt. “I didn’t get an elk ... they have been severely devastated by the 1996 introduction of wolves. Great weather and friends ... rode or walked over 100 miles above 8,000 feet ... came back tired but stronger with a cleansed body and mind ... and without any injuries. Hug Wharton Ramsey for me until I get there. Ron.” I add that, while I like Wharton, I don’t think his bones will stand a hug for a while. In case you have missed it, Wharton crashed his glider into a field after running into power lines. His plane lost lift, and the auxiliary motor failed to start. He broke – more like crushed – both feet/ankles, all 18 ribs, a hip and collapsed a lung ... along with a few other injuries. As I write this in October, he is finally in a recovery/therapy facility (along with multiple skin grafts on his feet and ankles) to continue healing with daily therapy sessions and a wheelchair along with a great attitude and strong sense of humor. A number of you sent me messages to forward to Wharton before I sent out his contact information. Phil Gioia: “I flew sailplanes for a while before I got married out here in California, but never afterward. They are the most dangerous way to fly: If you overshoot or undershoot the approach on landing, there’s no power to ‘go around,’ and if you run out of thermal or altitude, you’re in a real box. I left a message for Wharton – sure hope he gets better – really smashed himself up.” Ron Lowry added this: “Sounds also like the farmer was a big help placing a tourniquet around Wharton’s leg.”

The most extensive report on Wharton came from Ron Neidermayer Oct. 29: “Brenda and I were in Roanoke last weekend visiting relatives, and I had the opportunity to visit Wharton for a few hours. You probably don’t know, but Wharton and I went to high school together and swam on the same local swim team. So we had a lot to talk about. He is really banged up and hurting, but his attitude and outlook are fantastic – pure VMI spirit. Wharton acknowledged that he screwed up royally. He was in a sailplane race, in second place and performed a risky maneuver to place himself in the lead. He never saw the power lines that he hit. Wharton said that he thought he was dead as he crashed, but miracles happened to save him.

First, his crash made a herd of cows scatter, which brought the farmer out to see what was wrong.

The farmer called 911 and applied tourniquets to stop the bleeding, saving Wharton’s life. Second, a neighbor also came running, and he was an

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Carolina, to join the artists there. His woodwork EMT who tended to Wharton before the medivac Barry and Donna Hedquist have moved to Ponte and stained glass pieces are gorgeous, and he is in helicopter arrived. Wharton said that he was in Verde, Florida.

Someday, you should ask John Lee about his the mix of possibilities for making a piece for the surgery for hours, and oddly, most – if not all – of the surgeons were his dental patients. He got great collection of hippo teeth, cheetah hide and cape reunion “gift/favor.”

Ed Wittel is retired and spends much of his care. Wharton is currently in a nursing home and buffalo skull.

I checked with Wayne McDermott by phone, time on the porch in Nacogdoches, Texas, “drinkhas no intention of leaving for at least a month.

He hopes to get back on his feet and ing mint julips and grumbling about back to work sometime in January, the government.” probably part time. It’s going to be a Jim Wilson told me he bought himstruggle, as his feet are mangled. (He self a retirement gift of a blue Lexus did land on his feet, like a cat, Wharconvertible. He also had to cancel his reservations for Jim Roger’s dinner ton joked.) I left amazed about his atdue to rotator cuff surgery but is on titude and tenacity. He feels very lucky the mend. and his wife, Ellen, has been a tower Mike and Marci Bagnulo attendof strength for him. Family and friends have really rallied around him lifting ed her 50th high school reunion in his spirits. I hope to get back to RoaWashington, D.C. “Just a quick note to let you know we passed through noke sometime during the holidays to Lexington this past Sunday on our visit him again.” way home from D.C. We did a quick Mike Adams has moved from self-guided tour of the post and are Kilgore, Texas, to Texarkana, Texas. I really impressed with all the ‘new’ learned that he is Father Adams, the facilities. I got to see my actual brick. pastor of the Sacred Heart Church.

I guess those $25 donations add up Chuck Krebs is still temporarily over time. Inside the barracks looks stuck on a bump in the road on his See America Tour by RV while his doctors Class of 1967: Brother rats at the VMI versus Furman University exactly the same with that SuperMax game were, from left, front row, Mike Bagnulo, Bob Ward and treat an eye issue. He says it is not too Bill Fleshood. Second row: Jan Abernathy and Bob Klink. Third decorating scheme. The highlight was getting to have dinner with Jim and bad a respite, as he is spending a lot of row: Dixie Walker.

Barbara Joyner, which is always a time with the grandkids. treat. That will probably give us our Bob and Becky Ayers used to spend VMI fix until the reunion.” half a year in Texas and half in Park Jamie Tate participated in a reCity, Utah. They still have their place enactment of a lifetime at the 200th in Utah but now spend the second Battle of Waterloo Celebration. half of the year in Rancho Santa Fe, “Dear Jan, Thank you for forwardCalifornia.

Jim Baker is retired from his law ing the names and addresses of my practice and hopefully from his bout two grandsons to the Admission Ofwith three heart attacks. He says Beth fice. I will follow up with their dates is also retired from US Air, but it has of birth and class standings. I won’t not interrupted her occasional weekbe able to attend the dinner for Jim Rogers in November. Kathy is going end trips to Paris for hair appointments. to Washington to accept an award for Steve Buis is a retired judge but reguher elementary school. It was one of larly fills in the Richmond area for fam335 schools in the nation to get a Blue ily court judges with date conflicts.

Ribbon award. I have to go with her Bob Gates recently presented a paper for ‘support’ (i.e., drive in D.C. trafat a USNA symposium “on stuff that Class of 1967: Hank Ratrie with his brothers, Tom and Mike. explodes,” as I did not understand the fic). We will be up there two days, technical terms he was using so he put it in lay- and he said his convalescence is going well. He Nov. 9-10, and probably won’t make it back to man’s terms. He also is taking horseback riding sounded great, and we commiserated about the Lexington in time for the dinner. I’ve attached amount of leaves this fall. He offered for me to two photos from Waterloo 200th Anniversary lessons.

Ray Gosney is now settled in Delaware and visit and blow his yard free of leaves. What a guy! Battle June 19-21 this year. One shows me behind F.O. Moore still has his home on the market in my file partner, who is aiming at the French. He finds he is quite near Jim and Marie Waehler.

I may have mentioned in previous notes that Dallas anticipating a move to Asheville, North is James Deering of the 95th Rifles in the U.K. I

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Class Notes have no idea how the photographer took that shot without being shot. We don’t remember him being that close. Remember I shaved my mustache for this event because British infantry were clean shaven at that time. The second photo shows me standing next to a marker on the battlefield. The other rifleman standing to the right with me is John Dittamo, whose brother is Mike Dittamo ’85. Best Regards, Jamie.” Congratulations to Kathy and her school.

When I put out information on provisional appointments, it was because several BRs had asked how to get a certificate. It started with Linda Rountree (her and Jimmy’s grandson, Gage Warren Benningfield) and was followed shortly by Mort Barnwell’s grandson, Benjamin Quincy Barnwell. Then Don and Pam Brown’s grandson – Trevor Allen Warrington – and two of Jamie Tate’s – Alexander Tate in Atlanta and George Tate – in Richmond. Next came Chuck and Ginny Keblusek’s grandson, Decker Michael Smith, and finally, for now, Taylor and Aimee Robert’s two grandsons, Preston Savage Byrd in Charlotte and Desmond Savage Roberts in Arlington, Virginia. I try to publish ’67 provisional appointments in my notes, as I doubt many among us bother to read the PA lists in the back of the Alumni Review, and you and your family deserve the recognition.

Hank Ratrie: “Hi, Jan. Thanks for the mention in the last Alumni Review. It is true that I still get underground a couple of times a year – usually with my students and my daughters. My first cave trip was in Cave Springs cave on the far side of the W&L campus near the river with Doug Goodall and I think Barry Green and maybe John Harkrader or Dabney Pasco. For some reason,

Class of 1967: Bruce Amlicke continues to tour exotic nature preserves in the Caribbean on his sailboat, Wild Matilda.

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it’s hard to remember who was there 50 years later. I am still teaching biology at that fine liberal arts institution, Goucher College. The school is located in Towson, Maryland, but is unrelated to Towson University – about a half a mile away.

Great tribute to Doc Carroll by the way! Hank.”

Recent attempts to call a number of you have resulted in “number is not in service” responses.

Please check in, either by phone or email, by using my contact information at the beginning of this column when you move or change your phone number or email address.

This issue will arrive in February, and though winter should be calming down, you might check the VMI webcam to see if there are cadets having company or battalion snowball fights for military duty.

I close with two positive messages to the class.

Anna Green wrote a very nice thank you note addressed to all thanking you for your cards and support after Frank’s passing. She was especially appreciative of the red, white and yellow flower arrangement sent on behalf of 1967 brother rats.

John Horner, whose brother, Charles, died last summer, wrote to thank all who sent “...kind notes and emails ... it was a great assist to know they were there...”

’68

Tom Hickey

In September came the tragic news of the death of VMI Cadet Sean Duc Hoang ’19.

Cadet Hoang was linked to VMI ’68 through Wayne Spruell (Ashburn, Virginia), his uncle.

Sean had described Wayne as his inspiration.

Wayne wrote: “Sean was my wife’s sister’s oldest of triplets. He was an outstanding young man who had his heart set on the challenges of VMI. He was only there a month before he died of a heart attack on an afternoon run, but he loved VMI and the VMI system. At 17, Sean already had a vision for his life. After VMI, he planned to take a commission in the Army, attend medical school and become a doctor. He was always concerned with helping others. My wife and I met in Vietnam when we were both working for the American Consulate there. We were evacuated during the fall of Saigon in April 1975 and later married here in the U.S. Over the years, we were able to sponsor her parents

and seven of her siblings and their families.”

Because of our connection through Wayne, a small donation to the VMI Foundation has been made in Hoang’s honor by VMI ’68. The brother rats of what will be the VMI Class of 2019 have my profound sympathy.

Jack Long (Augusta, Georgia): “I recently heard from Ken Pennington (Amelia Island, Florida) who is now living in Florida. His daughter, Kelly, is married to VMI graduate, Dr. Victor Dewyea ’91, who is stationed at Fort Gordon outside of Augusta. Wayne Burton (Kingsland, Georgia) and his wife, Carol, come to Augusta from St. Marys, Georgia, yearly and we have had them over a couple of times.

“My wife of 44 years, Benita, has published two books and is now completing her Doctor of Divinity at Duke. Our daughter, Sallie, is in her second year at Georgetown Medical School, got married to a nice young man and is doing very well at Georgetown. Our son, Jack, is practicing law and was recently elected to be president of the Young Lawyers of Georgia.

He spends a lot of time back and forth to Atlanta. His wife, Paige Tucker, is the local NBC anchor and they have one child, Julia Reynolds, now a year old.

“I still practice law and try all sorts of disputes, from landline cases, estate disputes, personal injury cases and a host of others. Recently, I have taken on the task of trying to bring some type of justice to those victimized by ‘private probation,’ a system whereby those who have traffic and misdemeanor cases pay a fee to a private for-profit company so that they can pay their fines over time. If they fall behind, they go to jail. I think that the concept of ‘pay or stay’ when applied to the poor is unconstitutional and has been such for decades. The outsourcing of part of our judicial system causes substantial harm to those who have no access to lawyers and justice. Generally, the national press has supported me, and the issue now is whether or not the judicial branch will comprehend how in the long run what is happening will bring disrespect to the bench and bar.

“As for the rifle, I still shoot an M1 in some of the Garand matches. When we shoot the service rifle, we shoot the civilian version of the M16, an AR15. The M16 that we had 40 years ago is not the same rifle that our services use today.

The Marines and the Army Marksmanship Unit have made the M16 into a very accurate rifle.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Buzz Sprinkle (Greer, South In service rifle competition, we use Carolina): “I’m still very involved in iron sights and shoot at 200, 300 and the Greenville Woodworkers Guild.

600 yards. At 69, it is hard to compete I’m now the membership chairman, against the 20 year olds, but I still try.” so that keeps me busy with a memJoe LeVine (Abingdon, Virginia): “Thanks for the VMI birthday card. bership of 700 people. Nancy is Donna and I are at the Haneda Airstill teaching at Greer Literacy. We plan to meet up with Lew and Joyce port in Tokyo right now waiting for Yeouze in November at the VMI our flight back to the U.S. As a result, versus The Citadel game in CharlesI’ll get to celebrate two birthdays this year. The first will be in just under an ton, South Carolina. We are looking hour at midnight here in Japan (the forward to seeing them again. flight leaves at 00:30 a.m. Saturday, “Paul English ’73 recently moved Sept. 19). We land in Los Angeles to the upstate South Carolina area, at 10 p.m. Friday, Sept.18, so does and he is working to get a local that mean I get a second birthday at Class of 1968: From left, Wayne Spruell, Cadet Sean Hoang ’19 chapter going. Turns out that we midnight in the U.S.? I’m planning to and Lan Spruell. Hoang was the nephew of Spruell. have a lot of alumni in the Greenretire at the end of this year. ville, South Carolina/Asheville, road.

I thought Dick Wise (Richmond, Vir“Donna and I bought a house in Abingdon, North Carolina, area.”

Virginia, which is near the town in which she ginia) would get a kick out of it. It also made Jim Burg (Prescott Valley, Arizona): “We’re grew up. Our plan is to spend spring, summer me think of that night back in 1964 when we all still kickin’ in the old yeller way. We’re and fall in Abingdon and to spend the winters were in our first day of cadre. I roomed with blessed with another year of life, and I’m still Bill Bouck (Deerfield, Beach, Florida), Lew volunteering approaching 23 years of service to in Florida. We hope to get to a couple VMI Yeouze (Peachtree City, Georgia) and Tommie games in October.” others for the good of mankind and those who Rannie (Leesville, South Carolina) who was a Tom Boyd (Washington, D.C.): “My wife gave so much to help so many and keep our basketball player and stayed only one semester country free. It’s an honor serving others who underwent a hip replacement in August, and I assumed the role of caretaker after her home (this was before they put us in companies). I are less fortunate than we and have sacrificed care expired. She’s progressing slowly, unfor- don’t think Bill, Lew and I said too much, as so much more. I thoroughly enjoy what I do tunately, and I’ve been telecommuting where we were wondering what had happened! We and use my VMI background of training, athpossible and running between the office and didn’t know what had hit us.” letics and driven determination to help others home ever since. Our children are remain alive and look forward to both in graduate school: Tyler (31) a better future. So many wounded is working in D.C. while attending and depressed just want to give up. classes on weekends, year-round, in Hopefully, what I’m able to impart New York City, and he will graduate to them gives them hope and a better from Columbia University’s Busioutlook on life.

“My wife of 29 years is the light ness School in May. Brooke (37) has of my life; she truly understands my just started at New York University’s driven, disciplinarian ways while she Business School, also working duris the Geisha in the marriage and ofing the day and attending classes on weekends. She will graduate in two ten reins me in when politics gets the years. best of me and I’m screaming at the “My practice continues to be active, newscast or the foolishness during a though companies aren’t spending like football game. I know I’m seriously they used to; too much economic unbanged up from my wounds, but I’ll never quit. I’ve been given a second certainty, they tell me. But life is good.

And seeing VMI win a football game Class of 1968: Paul Hebert, who is back at the Institute this chance at life, and I’m making the with a quarterback who can throw semester as a visiting professor in the International Studies most of it. I’m not a quitter – injuries Department, and his wife, Mayling, joined Chandler Williams makes it even better.” and his brother, Randolph Williams ’66, along with Randolph’s and all. My family and church need Marvin Thews (Roanoke, Vir- two sons and their families, on a canoe float/camping trip over me, as do my neighbors and others. ginia): “Susan and I just got back Labor Day weekend 2015 on the James River at Bent Creek, I’ve been given a purpose in life, and north of Appomattox. The alumni pictured were, from left, Paul, until it’s fulfilled, I’m not quitting; from the beach, and I saw a sign Randolph, Dan Williams ’95 (Randolph’s son) and Chandler. never have and never will. We have that said Rankin Museum on the

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Class Notes I especially enjoyed Jim Burns’ (Henfour kids and four grandchildren all in need; another reason for pushing rico, Virginia) contribution.” ahead while letting the past be the Dee Biggs (Acton, Massachusetts): past. It’s often overwhelming, but “For some reason, I have re-entered hell, so is life. It’s not for the weak the working world after being retired and fainthearted. I give VMI a lot for a few years. A very good friend of credit for that, and the numerasked me to do a project for him for one year, and since it was part-time, I ous folks who didn’t give up on me. decided to help him out. It entails a lot Arizona has a lot to do with my conof traveling, which will impact my golf tinuing good health. I read a lot, exgame, but I am looking forward to it. ercise daily and socialize frequently “All else is going well. Our oldest but do it all in moderation. A very son and his wife live in Boise, Idaho, good doctor at the VA told me to works for Micron Technology and stop trying to be Mr. Universe and work on those brain cells that I sorely Class of 1968: From left, Rosemary Hickey, Tom Hickey, Joy has two terrific girls, and our daughneglected while being an athlete, so Edmunds and Leigh Edmunds in Cape May, New Jersey, Sept. 3, ter lives in Portland, Oregon, with her numerous years later, I’m following 2015. Rosemary and Tom were in Cape May on vacation with their husband and daughter and teaches in daughter, son-in-law and two granddaughters. While there, they his advice.”

Vancouver, Washington. Our youngvisited with Joy and Leigh, who summer in Cape May. Bob Schmalzriedt (Marietta, Georest son works for Wayfair in Boston and loves it. I am looking forward to seeing some gia) from an email exchange with Jim Burg: “I’m our old newspaper boy, sent me a nice note.

“Haven’t seen any other classmates, though brother rats during the next year as I travel around working again, full-time days driving for Uber Roddy Delk (Smithfield, Virginia), Paul Hebert the country.” using my personal car. I drive people like a taxi Gil Piddington (Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvaservice all around Atlanta. It’s producing a good Steamboat Springs, Colorado, and Lexington, amount of money for us and is easy, enjoyable Virginia) and George Sebren (Niceville, Florida) nia): “Tracey had surgery for a ruptured (tennis) Achilles tendon in early September, just before we work ... but long hours from 4:30 a.m. on ... just almost visited us in Oregon. I have seen Alfred ’cause I push myself. I figure, if I can get up at Smith’s widow, Hallie, and George Squires’ widleft for a couple of weeks with many friends on 4 a.m. to go fishing, I can get up to make some ow, Kitty Sue, and both are doing well. Hallie is Ocracoke Island, North Carolina. With crutches, currently taking a cooking class in Paris. money, right? boot, knee scooter and golf cart, Tracey made “As a biology major at VMI, I recently contrib“Just heard from Paul Bouis ’67 at VMI that the week work. When we returned home, I had Russ Quay ’70 has been by lately! I’m glad that uted to a collection of stories about ‘Doc’ Carroll; surgery on my right shoulder to repair two mashe’s taken interest, still, in our school. I’m going sively torn rotator cuff tendons. The left shoulder, to contact him, and I’ll give you his contact info, though not as bad, is scheduled for surgical repair so you could say hello, too.” in January. So, we are both in the long process of John VanLandingham (Eugene, Oregon): “I’m recovery and about to begin physical therapy restill working as a legal aid lawyer working mosthabilitation. Keyboarding just isn’t one single fingering with my left hand. It will be a big stretch, ly in the Oregon legislature on tenant rights and but I’m hoping to be healthy enough to play in the affordable housing, which is why I am responding late. My wife, Martha Walters, is also still Billy Davis Tournament in April.” working as a member of the Oregon Supreme Dick Wood (Richmond, Virginia): “We’ve had a great year so far in 2015. I sold my dental practice Court. Our two kids are grown and living in the to my associate, Campbell Delk. He’s my nephew; D.C. area. Johnny No. 5 is getting a doctorate the son of my sister, Betty, and her husband, BR in astronomy from the University of Maryland, Roddy Delk. That’s allowing me to continue pracand Cassie is working for an international ecoticing dentistry three days a week but hand over nomic consulting firm headed by former Secrethe ownership and leadership reins to him. tary of State Madeline Albright. We are headed “Our son, John, graduated from the Institute in to D.C. at this moment to visit them (and MarMay with a civil engineering degree and commistha has a legal meeting in Falls Church). sioned in the Air Force. He starts Air Force flight “The big development in my life was the Detraining this winter at Columbus Air Force Base, cember death of my father, VMI Class of 1943 and regimental commander and Jackson Hope Mississippi.

Class of 1968: Barb and Ken Pennington “Our daughter is a third year student at the UniMedal winner. He so loved VMI. Rick Siegel at their family Halloween party in Clearversity of Virginia, and she, too, is majoring in civil (Bethesda, Maryland) attended the memorial water, Florida, Oct. 31, 2015. engineering. We only had two kiddos and both service. And Skip Roberts (Lexington, Virginia),

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes civil engineers – go figure. No dentists, unfortunately. I’m looking forward to getting my daughter out of college so we can join you guys in the art of free life. For now, it’s still participating in college events such as sorority parents, formals, club lacrosse games and more.

“We still visit the Institute, but obviously, not as often as we did for the last four years with John Charles there.”

In 2016, it will be time to start ramping up for our 50th Reunion in spring 2018 (date TBD).

Committee members will be needed to plan, organize and execute what I hope will be the biggest and best reunion ever. At a very minimum, we’ll need a Campaign (Fundraising) Committee and a Reunion Committee. VMI ’65 also had an Attendance Committee to reach out to all BRs to urge them to attend. I’ll be talking with Institute staff and officials, as well as Mickey Finn ’65, Al Connor ’66 and Jan Abernathy ’67 to identify best practices so we can all enjoy a terrific event.

Please let me know if you are interested in helping (or leading) any of these committees.

That’s a wrap for this edition of the notes. Best wishes to VMI ’68 brother rats and to all VMI men and women everywhere.

’69

Walter Judd

Greetings, Brother Rats and Friends of the illustrious Class of 1969.

These notes are written in fall 2015 and document the crazy weather and its impacts to friends in South Carolina.

First, we look at random sightings of BRs on Facebook. That site is home to more grandbaby pictures and remembrances of old than any other place I know. John DuBose went hiking in mid-August in the Shenandoah National Park with his “faithful dog, Buddy.” Brant Collins was shown with his 103-year-old mom on several occasions. And then in October, he posted many pictures of himself and travel partners on a trip to Croatia, the Adriatic Sea area and Venice. Marty Parks showed a group picture of firefighting son and teammates in August when they were battling many fires in the American West. Ron Happel became a “friend” this summer and is a regular in posting pictures and comments. Ken Parris sent greetings to a friend.

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Skip Steiner finished cutting and stacking two cords of firewood and celebrated by running a race in Baltimore. Tom Ruffin told of movingin activities at new home near Charlottesville.

Clint Spencer was shown with wife at a big party, and Hugh Hopkins attended his 50th high school reunion. Jim Campbell turned down his high school reunion invitation. Mike McCrary showed some of his awesome collection of guitars. Cal and Pam Churn continue to love and show dogs. Tom Hickman almost smiled in his page photo. Tom Jones’ wife, Elizabeth, finished the Wilmington Half-Ironman and was happy to be done! Cammy and Charlie Bryan went to a Corgi-fest and watched all those highenergy dogs do their thing. And lastly, there were several great photos of the Sebrell grandtwins and the Bush grandkids.

Charlie and Cammy Bryan organized another trip to Knoxville to see a University of Tennessee football game. Although Charlie was the only UT grad (history Ph.D. after VMI), he was not the winner that day. Steve and Gail Harrington represented the winning team from the University of Arkansas Hogs. Also joining the party were John and Sallie Sebrell, former roomie Rich Schmidt from Atlanta area, and Marty and Cathy Parks from western Virginia.

Yes, Virginia, the Commonwealth of Virginia does go west of Roanoke and Blacksburg. Just ask Marty or David Bush...

On Oct. 1 Mike Santoro hosted several of us at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond for lunch, a brief explanation of the Virginia War Memorial Foundation supporting the educational mission of the memorial and a short movie about a theme honoring veterans representing Virginia in World War II. Our movie was one of many created by the foundation and showed veterans remembering the World War II light cruiser, the USS Birmingham. During its relatively short career, the ship and its crew started in Newport News and quickly made the rounds of fighting in the Mediterranean (supporting Patton’s invasion of Sicily) and then in the Pacific (supporting several campaigns in the Philippines and the islands in the South Pacific). Attending the excellent presentation

by Jon Hatfield, executive director of the memorial, and Adm. John Hekman, foundation executive director, were the following BRs: Mike Santoro, host and treasurer of the foundation; Bob Flowers; Dick Jeter; Tom Jones;

Glenn White; Skinny Baker; Spunky Butler; Thornton Newlon; Charlie Bryan, also on the foundation board; Bruce Gregory; Pat Branch; Courtney Welton; Bunny Paulette, whose firm had built the part of the memorial in which we sat; Tommy Thompson; and me. Also in the audience were Waite Rawls ’70, chief executive officer of the American Civil War Museum in Richmond, and Dr. John O’Bannon, chairman of the War Memorial Board and med school classmate of Dr. Jeter. We toured the exhibits inside and then wandered into the wet and blowing weather to view the large glass tablets remembering those Virginians who died in battle and note the names of our BRs who died in Vietnam. We also returned to the older section of the memorial and saw more exhibits and a multi sensorial movie/presentation in the VMI Memorial Room. When an artillery round came to the characters in the movie, the room resounded with light, noise and vibration. It was quite a different kind of show. Talk to Mike if you want a tour or wish to send some money for its educational purposes.

By the time you all read this next article, the memories of flooding and over a week of rain in the Southeast in late September and early October will all be a memory. But people in Columbia, South Carolina, will probably still be cleaning up.

Here is Doug Marks’ aftermath story of getting through tough times in Columbia, South Carolina. Doug came in the rain to Richmond to play

Class of 1969: Al Pond, Tom Jones and Bruce Noel attended the VMI victory at Mercer University in mid-October.

All live in Georgia and loved seeing the team play well.

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Class Notes golf in the annual Tommy Thompson-sponsored tournament in early October and then had to return home via back roads. The golf tourney was rained out in Virginia, but we had none of the big problems seen in South Carolina.

“Good morning to my friends! I have received so many phone calls and emails from many of you inquiring about how the recent floods here in Columbia have impacted my family and me, and I can’t tell you how much they have been appreciated! I thought I’d take a minute to respond.

As you probably know, the city of Columbia was inundated with rainfall over a period of more than a week beginning Sept. 24. For 11 days, there was at least some measurable amount of rain every single day. The biggest rainfall totals came beginning last Friday and over the weekend. In my local neighborhood, we had over 2 feet of rain during that period! Small streams became raging torrents, and the moving water destroyed a number of dams holding back water in a number of small lakes. Many of these lakes are fed by the same stream, Gills Creek. As the water moved from lake to lake, taking out dams in the process, the destruction became worse and worse. Of course, there are many such water sources around the city, and each of them has taken its toll. The bottom line: Hundreds of homes and businesses have been ruined, lives have been lost (thankfully, a relatively low toll in lives when all things are considered) and roads all around the area have been washed out or undermined. The cleanup and recovery is now underway. Let me start by saying that Janet and I are fine. Our home was spared from damage, and for us, it has been a matter of inconveniences like loss of power and water. (We have both now, but the water is not potable. We’ll be drinking and cleaning dishes, etc. with bottled water for a while yet!) We have many, many friends who have suffered terrible losses, and our community has pitched in to help. My daughter, Elise, and her husband, Todd, and son, Davis, had just moved into a new home about a month ago.

Their home was flooded on the first level up to about 18 inches. Before the worst for them, they rushed around and took as much stuff to the second level as they could carry, but there wasn’t much time to tarry. They left their home Sunday and came over to my house for refuge. They’ll be living either here with us or with her mother (who lives nearby and is well) for a while. The recovery efforts are moving forward slowly. The fate of all those lakes is unknown at this point. Many are

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privately owned, and it’s not yet decided whether there will be any state or federal aid to restore the dams. Many roads around the city are still closed.

It’s tough to get from A to B in many instances, but so far it hasn’t caused too many issues. Where there’s a will, there’s a way! Schools are still closed – mostly because of the road situation. Buses and moms can’t get the kids to school safely quite yet. My daughter is dean of students at a private school here. That school remained reasonably dry, but the road leading to it (only one road in and out) is still under water. Todd and Elise began the process of demolishing several days ago.

They pulled all ductwork and insulation under the house, along with both A/C units and a water heater. On the first floor inside, they’re ripping out all hardwood floors, carpet, lower kitchen cabinets, all built-in units, etc. They’re cutting all walls from the floor to a height of about 2 feet to allow removal of soaked wood and insulation and to allow fans and dehumidifiers to dry the place out. They’ll disinfect everything when the demo is complete. After some period of time for thorough drying, they’ll begin the rebuilding process, and they’ll begin replacing items of furniture that

Class of 1969: At the tennis U.S. Open in the New York City area Sept. 1, 2015, were BRs Glenn White and Rebel Good.

Glenn still plays community tennis in Hampton Roads, Virginia, and Rebel is a senior tennis official for the United States Tennis Association.

were lost. It’s a trying time for our city, but thankfully the loss of life was relatively low. As we all saw as a nation during 9/11, it sometimes takes a tragedy to make everyone pull together and have a sense of community. We’re seeing that here.

I’ve been so proud of South Carolina in recent months. Our citizens have reacted well to things like the horrible shooting in Charleston, the recent killing of a young policeman in my community and now this flood. No rioting. No looting. Just neighbors pitching in to help those who need it and offering comfort to those who require it. I’ll always be a proud Virginian, but my adopted state of South Carolina is a wonderful place! Thanks so very much for all your kind words and inquiries about our well-being. I can’t tell you how much it means to have so many great friends. It really is true that this flood has taken ‘stuff’ that can be, for the most part, rebuilt and replaced. My family is whole and safe, and for that I’m thankful. Take care, and I hope to see all of you soon.”

Doug also reported he met with several BRs on the first Friday in October (when the rained out golf tournament was supposed to have been going on) for lunch in Richmond’s Church Hill. With no golf to rush to, Doug enjoyed lunch with Tommy Thompson, Tom Jones, Ned Caldwell, Dick Jeter, Bruce Gregory and Waite Rawls ’70. I can speak from experience that getting together with BRs is a good recipe for laughter and bonhomie.

Try it sometime and tell me about it!

Again, I cannot let Tom Jones’ name go by without giving him credit for two positive things he does each year. He is the de facto leader of the VMI representation in the Jonathan Daniels ’61 pilgrimage and the founder and leader of Camp Little Shot for kids with diabetes in Georgia. He and wife Elizabeth were praised on Facebook by a mom who had attended the camp and now sends her daughter. The 35 years of camping has made a great impact on those in the Athens area. Tom reported on this year’s 50th anniversary of Daniels’ heroic actions that several of the VMI senior staff attended and showed the colors for present day VMI. I noted BR Mike Hanna in the background of several photos, as well.

From Frankfurt came word that Ward Carr is back in the press box reporting on American football played in Europe. He sent the sports page article about the London versus Frankfurt game played Oct. 4 in Frankfurt. Ward said he just had to send to the sports page editor of the Stars & Stripes newspaper a quick summary of the game

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and a few stats. I remember a time when that newspaper was our lifeline to the sports scene in America; never considering that one day that the same paper would report on American football being played in local neighborhoods!

August is great time for golf, and this year was no exception. Jim Baker was our suitable substitute when Gary Mackey had to back out of a scheduled charity tournament in Williamsburg.

Skinny joined Bob Heely, my brother-in-law and me for a round of golf and steak dinner afterward.

When all the scoring was done and winners tabulated, my small team ended up winning a prize for the second flight. BR Baker walked away with several prizes from the gift draws and a plaque for winning a flight. I hope he comes again!

The last weekend in September and first weekend in October were busy times and culmination of many hours of work for a trio of BRs. Bob Heely, Gary Mackey and John Ishon all were part of the leadership teams for their respective high schools holding 50th reunion festivities those weekends. Two schools in Norfolk and the one and only Hampton High School with several BRs among its grads met for reunions during that time period. Seems BR Ishon only had to account for 600 classmates for his Hampton reunion. Finding Glenn White, John Robins, Win Winfree, Jim (Dan) Gibson and himself was pretty easy.

Although Bob Alexander joined our VMI class from Hampton, he finished up his last high school year at Randolph-Macon Academy and was not officially one of the 600. For the record, BRs Tom Catlett and David Hargrove finished high school at the “new” school (at that time) in Hampton: Kecoughtan – just a short distance away.

Two wives of BRs did a good job of passing on kudos for their hubbies. Nancy Scott sent me a film showing BR John skiing after receiving a knee replacement. I think the film was terrific, as it showed John making all the right moves and putting a little pressure on the new knee. Glenn White suggested the small piston-like rod John attaches to his ski outfit might also help support the knee. Whatever it takes to continue doing whatever is fun for you is worth the extra time to get suited up. And the Florida Orthopedic Institute and John’s doc certainly liked the good press gained from the film.

Bob Tanner’s wife, Susan, sent the following message: “Bob Tanner from Atlanta, Georgia, has had a busy summer and fall. In June, he and his wife, Susan, traveled to Belgium for the 200th

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year anniversary re-enactment of the Battle of Waterloo. Afterward, the couple journeyed to France, where they enjoyed a riverboat cruise on the Seine from Paris to Normandy, during which they visited the invasion beaches and the American Cemetery at Omaha. Very moving. This fall, the busy couple served as Patron Program cochairs of the 2015 Crystal Ball, which supports the Arthritis Foundation. This year’s gala was held Oct. 17 at the Buckhead Ritz Carlton, and their responsibilities were to increase attendance and awareness of this year’s event. Funds raised will help support arthritis research. In November, Bob and Susan planned to be in Charleston to cheer on the Keydets against The Citadel and hoped to see many of Bob’s brother rats there!”

Susan told me she was a retired dermatologist and was enjoying traveling and keeping up with Bob. She also learned from me that BR Rudy Segaar was a re-enactor for the French side at the Waterloo celebration and other sites in U.S. Susan Tanner’s report on taking a riverboat cruise reminded me of Tom and Gail Morris’ summer trip on the Rhine. They flew to Amsterdam, and after a couple of days sightseeing there, they hopped on a sleek riverboat for a week of cruising south and visiting a bunch of cities along the way. As I heard the trip described, they traveled at night and toured most days. The weather was decent (hot, according to Tom) and the trip good. Tom’s latest adventure has taken him into a Williamsburg not-for-profit dental clinic when he interviews potential patients for follow-on work.

He attended a one-day class at MCV recently to learn Spanish phrases needed to talk with many of his interviewees. We laughed when he said he now knows how to say “where does it hurt?” in Spanish!

If you don’t follow BR Don Mercer on Facebook or email, you miss seeing some terrific photos. Don is traveling the country and scouring the national parks for their most scenic images.

This time lighthouses and seaside scenes were the focus. I think I will pass on traveling with him, though, as he occasionally wants to film sunrises or sunsets or even night sky scenes.

In mid-October, Mike Santoro joined me at a football game and then at the annual Keydet Club-sponsored Scholarship Banquet for athletes at VMI. We met the winner of the Class of 1969 Athletic Scholarship, Greg Sanders ’18, and other cadet athletes. Mike and I sat with 3rd Class Cadet Sanders; First Class Cadet Hayden Alford ’16,

our excellent punter and backup quarterback; and 4th Class Cadet Jarrod Richmond ’19, a football player from Bluefield, Virginia, and his parents.

BRs Ron and Betsy Wall and Bunny Paulette also attended the football game and the banquet, while Tom and Nancy Catlett and Jim and Beth Long attended the chilly and almost successful game. (The Keydets led at halftime and lost by six points to a highly rated team.) Other scholarships with a connection to our class and brother rats included those given by Jim Chapman, Bunny Paulette, John Mitchell, Doug Marks, John Pool and in memory of Jack Kennedy.

In September, I sent out a class email message suggesting we as a class and as individuals seek ways to interact with the members of the rat mass who began VMI Aug. 22. In the blink of an eye, these individuals will be the First Class who will lead a parade in our honor at our 50th Reunion.

John Ishon talked with a West Point grad (our year at the VMI of the Nawth) and learned that the 50th reunion West Pointers make a concerted effort to know the new cadets all through their cadetships and maybe help mentor them later. I approached the commandant and alumni leaders about our ideas and essentially was told to find ways to interact with individuals vice trying to work with the whole class. We need to look for ways to share with the rats and ask to meet some any chance you get. Some associations are easy.

Just ask Joe Flanz about hosting Japanese cadets.

The job is not hard, and the efforts are well appreciated. Other suggestions included seeing if any cadets are from your home area and taking them out for a meal off-post. Your starting place is the cadet desk in the new Third Barracks first floor parlor. Just check with the cadet on duty and find someone who meets your definition. The Chapmans and others nearby to Lexington have “adopted” cadets for many years and reported they still keep up with their guys and gals even after graduation. Give it some thought, BRs, and find ways to get to know some present-day cadets who will appreciate knowing you and your history with VMI. Brian Crockett, chief executive officer of the VMI Foundation, announced in October that The Campaign for VMI has passed $233 million in gifts and commitments. Wow! That is super and a great accomplishment. If you need encouragement to make gifts to VMI, visit the VMI Foundation webpages and view the short clips made by alumni young and old. Some are serious and

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Class Notes some are funny (thanks, Bunny, for some of this!), but all are interesting and tell what VMI is doing and has done to impact lives. And if you need more encouragement, consider that all gifts made for the next four years count in our 50th Reunion check shown to all at our 50th Reunion parade.

Start early to get your name off of the list.

In the spirit, Walt

’70

Warren Grasty

Once again, I have to begin the class notes with very sad news; this time about the passing of Ben Dick in early September. Thanks to the decision

by Ben’s family to delay the wake, funeral and reception to Thursday night and Friday of our 45th Reunion, quite a few brother rats were able to make it to Winchester for one or more of these events. Quite a few stopped by on their way to Lexington Thursday evening, while others drove up from Lexington Friday. Ben’s passing is a huge loss for both the Dick family and the VMI family.

The high point of this issue is certainly our 45th Reunion, at which we were blessed with a great turnout, mostly good weather and a VMI football win. Along with the 103 brother rats who attended, we were honored to also have Melanie Hughes Kern and Nancy Cabaniss Mastin.

The three brother rats I am aware of who were attending their first reunion ever were Mike and Beth Hannum, Rob Perelli-Minetti and Russ and Carol Quay. Including wives and guests, the total attendance was 180. At least six other brother rats and wives had to cancel at the last minute for various reasons.

This was the first reunion where we used shuttle buses to get most of us to and from the events around Lexington, which made the weekend much less stressful than it would have been otherwise. Many thanks to Jim Mawyer, who not only organized this whole process but also managed it throughout the weekend. We weren’t aware until the later stages that the three reunion classes that weekend (1970, 1980 and 1990) were the guinea pigs for the arrangement with Rockbridge County Schools whereby they provided the buses and drivers. As it turned out, all people involved were great to work with.

The festivities got underway Thursday evening

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with the early-arrivers’ barbecue and music at Pavilion No. 2 at McKethan Park. A short panic ensued when one of the wives discovered that the bathrooms were locked. A quick 911 call solved the problem. Although it rained before and after, it stayed dry all during the event ... which is more than I can say about the 50-plus attendees. One of the highlights of the evening was a Doug Clark and the Hot Nuts sing-along. Afterward, as Stix Chandler, Liz and I began packing up the sound equipment in our SUV, it started pouring. After scurrying around like drowning rats in a tsunami, we all jumped into the vehicle and headed back to the hotel, with Liz, being more sober than either Stix or me, at the wheel. About halfway there, I thought I noticed more road noise than usual, but I just assumed it was due to the rain and because I was sitting in the backseat, which I had never done before. Fortunately, I looked around to notice that the hatchback was still up. More fortunately, nothing had fallen out. Most fortunately, no law enforcement officials witnessed this fiasco.

We caught up with the early arrivers back in the hospitality suite at the hotel, which was kept amply supplied by Herb Braun and Ralph Costen.

On display was Dick Cheatham’s VMI versus Richmond football game sheet from our 4th Class year, Stix and Nancy Chandler’s three-volume VMI scrapbooks, Liz’s selfie reunion picture frame and her rendition of Ratso. The old stories flowed pretty heavily all night and seemed to have gotten funnier with age.

Friday was a day full of options: Golf, an afternoon winery tour and a trip to Covington for the Boy’s Home celebration of Donnie Wheatley’s 35 years of service. The weather was just about perfect. Since I heard no reports of daring do or massive winnings from any of the 23 brother rats who played golf, I assume that neither of these things actually happened. Thanks to Ralph Costen for maintaining at least the illusion of order during this event. In the afternoon, about 15 BRs and wives opted for the Rockbridge Winery tour and tasting in scenic Raphine, Virginia.

This event was headed up by our resident wine connoisseur (which is French for “he sure drinks a lot”), Steve Craddock. Also in the afternoon, Ned Haley herded 74 brother rats and wives into the motor coach that headed to and from Boys’ Home in Covington. This was a great turnout not only to celebrate Donnie’s leadership at Boys’ Home over the years, but also to recognize the contributions of Betty Brown and Julie Strock,

who have served on their board, and Dave and Helen Miller, who have been most generous in their financial support. Boys’ Home is quite an impressive place, and I encourage any of you who haven’t been there to take a side trip to Covington the next time you are in the Shenandoah Valley and check it out.

Everyone came together Friday evening at Lexington Golf & Country Club for a very nice Italian buffet dinner, music and conversation. Thanks to the many brother rats who sent me more than 100 old pictures from our time in barracks that were used in the slide show. Thanks also for the crucial technical assistance of Gary and Lynn Weishaar. By our 50th Reunion, I hope to have enough pictures so that this puppy will run the whole evening without repeating. Once dinner had settled, we managed to pull ourselves together for Old Yells for Ben Dick and for Donnie Wheatley. After everybody got the dancing thing out of their systems, we headed back to the hospitality suite.

Saturday morning, everyone arose bright-eyed and bushy-tailed for breakfast and the short trek to post for our class picture, class meeting, reunion parade and Old Yell from Old Barracks. Well, almost everyone. It seems that during the night Ed Andrews experienced a lot of pain and had roomie Dick Cheatham take him to the emergency room early Saturday morning. Fortunately, Ed was released later in the day and was able to make it to our class dinner. Unfortunately, they both missed the class picture. During our class meeting, Denny O’Donnell gave a nice summary of the events in Winchester in remembrance of Ben Dick, and Tom Love said a prayer in memory of all 21 of our brother rats who have died, including Sister Rat Mrs. Mary Moody Northen. During and after the parade, many of us received compliments on our class shirts, which featured our class ring embroidered on the front. Thanks again to Joe Tenhet for doing the legwork in getting this designed.

With a forecast of afternoon rain, we all headed with trepidation to Foster Stadium after lunch.

Umbrellas were flying off the shelves of the VMI Bookstore. The good news was that it never rained, and the Keydets defeated Morehead State in overtime. The bad news was that the game didn’t end until well after 5:00, which resulted in a mad scramble back to the hotel to get cleaned up for our 6:30 cocktails and class dinner at Marshall Hall. Luckily, we all somehow managed to

VMI Alumni Review

From left, Front row: Jim Spacek. Row 2: Harry Bare, John McLemore, Warren Grasty, Bob Hart, Randy Taylor, Richard Balderson, Rich Clary, Robert Moore, Ed Trinkle, Les Ginn, Glenn Kuntz, Bill Scherer, Jerry VanLear, Jim Mawyer and Tom Campbell. Row 3: Gordon Williams, Paul Dickinson, Al Kirk, (3-1/2 person gap), Bill Murchison, Neil Steverson, Don McQueen, Paul Munch, Tom Zarges, Mike Carruth and Tom Love. Row 4: Jim Flemming, Tom Cooke, Bill Huffman, Kent Schlussel, Ashley Butler, Charlie Walker, Gray Chandler, Denny O’Donnell, Jim Nelson, Dave Nuckols, Ash Ormes and Joe Tenhet. Row 5: Bob Candido, Waite Rawls, Donnie Wheatley, Larry Thompson, Ned Haley, Carl Strock, Burt MacKenzie, Chip Hatcher (in blue blazer), Dixie Walker, John Bailey (beside Chip Hatcher), Warren Wagner, Mike O’Connor, Bill Bott, Phil Anderson and Russ Marshall. Row 6: Mike Hannum, Frank Cleaton, David Payne, Don Crawford, Bill O’Connor, Ralph Costen, Dick Marshall, Jack Hoffman, Bobby Brown, Herb Braun, Dave Miller and Snead Luck. Row 7: Lee Moon, Peel Dillard, Artie Pates, Chuck Wills, Gary Weishaar, Steve Craddock, Ned Snead, J. C. Hanks, Taze Taylor, George Ritko, Bruce Kirchner, Howie DeWolf, Ben Morris, Rob Perelli-Minetti, Chip Humphrey and Ned Perrow. Row 8: Bill Williams, Jack Sheedy, Mike Sisler, Bob Copty, Bill Gearhart, Tom Clingerman, Mike Snead, Reed Heddleston, Jim Gillespie, Al Johnson, Dewey George and Joe Girlando. Present but not pictured: A.C. Arnn, Ed Andrews, Jud Collier, Bill Davis, Dick Cheatham, Melanie Hughes Kern, Nancy Cabaniss Mastin, Lew Reynolds, Cameron Seay, David Schmidt, Bob Spore and Wilder Wadford. (Editor’s Note: Caption provided by class agent.)

Class Notes

45th Reunion – Sept. 11-12, 2015

The Class of 1970

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Class Notes A few days after reunion, I received a call make it. After settling at our dinner tables, Neil and Nancy Chandler, and Don and Tucker Steverson said the blessing after some nice in- McQueen. Needless to say, we didn’t leave hun- from Jim Mawyer saying that Judy had come troductory comments. He then introduced us to gry. They have an amazing panoramic view across three hard-to-get tickets to the VMI versus Richmond football game that Saturday night in the Class of 1970 Athletic Scholarship recipient, of the mountains from their home outside of Dane Forlines ’17, who spoke briefly to thank all Staunton. In October, Cameron and Mary visit- Richmond. The price was right – i.e., free – so I of us for our scholarship support. And what was ed with Dave and Priscilla Price at their farm in made the trek south for an overnighter at Chez a first on post for many in attendance: We actually the North Carolina mountains near Hayesville. Mawyer. The only downside was that the tickets had an excellent meal. In fact, several brother rats Dave and Cameron had not seen each other in were in the UR booster section, so we didn’t get to mingle with any other brother rats, told me that the filet was the best they such as Bob Hawthorne, who was have ever had. Although we do have a there with his son, Jeff. However, few BRs with questionable taste, I tend before the game, we did run into to agree with them on this point. After old golfing buddy Mike Smith ’73, dinner, we were honored to hear Col. who had open heart surgery just Bill Wanovich ’87, commandant of casix weeks before. Fortunately for dets, give his insights into the way some his health, the game wasn’t all that aspects of life in barracks have changed exciting. The following week, John over the years and how some haven’t. It Bailey, Reed Heddleston, Glenn was a very entertaining, educational and Kuntz and I got together for a round relaxing evening. of golf before Glenn headed west to After dinner, some of us hung around his new abode in Park City, Utah. to see the medals on display in the Hall Fortunately, A.C. and Beth Arnn of Valor that had been donated by our survived the devastating flooding brother rats – namely Mike Carruth, Dewey George, Ben Harvey, Dave Class of 1970: George and Sheila Yurchak with Elaine and Russ in the Columbia, South Carolina, area in early October with minimal Lawrence and Al Moccia. A very hum- Marshall in Biloxi, Mississippi. impact, i.e., cart path only rules at bling and proud reminder of what these his golf club. They had a full house and some of our other brave brother rats around Halloween when Patrick endured during the Vietnam War era. and Sarah arrived with spouses And then it was back to the hospitality and children. suite with all that entails, including reciJon Vordermark checked in to tations of “In Days of Old” and “The say that the addition on his home Signifying Monkey.” Although at that in Taos, New Mexico, is just about point I was running on fumes, I somefinished. The new suite will have how managed to hang with the merry a view of the Sangre de Christo gang who closed the place down around Mountains, and he says all are wel1:30. All in all, a marvelous day capped a tremendous weekend. come, so I am hereby adding him Several brother rats couldn’t make the to my mooch list. Jon said the local reunion due to previous travel plans. ski resort has been totally redone, Fuzzy and Val Patrick were in France and they are expecting a good snow visiting Normandy and cruising down pack this season for all you skiers. the Rhone River. John and Georganne He also mentioned that one of his Ludt had a long-planned family trip to Class of 1970: Bob Hawthorne with son Jeff at the VMI versus paintings won best of show at the Northern Ireland during reunion week, Richmond University football game in September 2015.

Taos Fall Arts Festival. Prices seem and Deihl and Pat Jones were traipsing to be rising, and he is offering special around Italy that week, as was Tom Morehouse. 23 years since they worked together while in the discounts to brother rats. Congratulations, Jon! Jay Tice also sent his regrets due to knee replace- Army in Germany (presumably the U.S. Army, In mid-October, Russ and Eileen Marshall traveled to Mississippi where they visited with ment surgery, and Al Bast and Steve McAuliffe not the German one). Hayesville must be a hapGeorge and Sheila Yurchak in Gulfport. Russ both had work-related conflicts arise at the last pening place, as Dave and Jo Trenholm are visminute and had to cancel their registrations. iting the Prices as I write this tome. Dave also and George roomed together in 1970 while they On our way home Sunday, we stopped by reported that Bob Grossman had major back were both assigned to Keesler Air Force Base.

Cameron and Mary Seay’s new home for surgery Oct. 19 but was recovering nicely with Also reconnecting with former comrades were Dick and Linda Knight, who attended a small brunch with Bob and Kathy Candido, Gray the assist of some groovy medications.

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Class Notes 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Class of 1970 1: From left, David Schmidt, Warren Grasty and Tom Zarges prepared for the Old Yell atop the sentinel box in Old Barracks.

2: Lynn and Gary Weishaar, Penny and Chuck Wills, and Charlie Walker in the hospitality suite Friday night of the reunion.

6.

3: From left, Cameron and Mary Seay, Kathy and Bob Candio, Don and Tucker McQueen, Gray and Nancy Chandler, and Liz and Warren Grasty after brunch at the Seays’ home in Churchville, Virginia.

4: In front of Preston Library on the Saturday of the reunion were, from left, back row, Richard Balderson, Rich Clary, Robert Moore and Ed Trinkle. Front row: Jim Spacek.

5: Neil Steverson, left, with Cadet Dane Forlines ’17 at the Class of 1970 class dinner.

6: From left, Ralph Costen, Jack Hoffman and Bill Bott at Lexington Golf & Country Club Friday evening of the reunion.

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Class Notes reunion of former officers at the 4th Division Headquarters in Fort Carson, Colorado, back in the early seventies.

In late October, George and Lisa Ritko dropped in on David and Katy Schmidt at their new digs in Orangeburg, South Carolina, for a few days of shooting up ammo on their farm using David’s armory of weapons. Bobby Brown wrote in to say that he and Betty, along with their older daughter, Spencer, just returned from visiting with their younger daughter, Meg, in New York City. No mention of weapons on that trip.

On Oct. 19, Steve and Emily Talley set sail down the Intracoastal Waterway headed to the Bahamas and Cuba. Reading between the lines, I think the boy must be running low on rum. In any case, Buck set up a blog to document their adventures at flickavoyages.blogspot.com. Not to be presumptuous, but I think a more appropriate name would have been Grog Blog, but that’s just me.

Later in November, Dick Cheatham planned to head to Yuma, Arizona, to do a presentation as Charles Lindbergh Sr., father of the first transAtlantic pilot. Certainly more respectable than going to Roswell, Arizona, as E.T. The Keydet Club Scholarship banquet was held Oct. 17 in Crozet Hall. Gordon Williams reported that the 750-some attendees included Tom Campbell, Ralph Costen and Bill O’Connor, who was there with the Class of 1970 Scholarship awardee Dane Forlines ’17. Gordon attended with John Phillips ’17, the Williams Track Scholarship awardee. John is a chemistry major with a minor in biology, an officer in the Corps, runs cross-country and indoor track, and wears academic stars. These two young men are just the type of individuals who make you proud that they represent the Institute.

Kent and Judy Schlussel just returned from the Adriatic, where they visited Croatia, Montenegro, Bosnia-Herzegovina and Slovenia. They hiked through numerous old cities, around waterfalls and even in caves between samplings of the local brandies (apple, cherry, plum, honey, whatever). From my experience with local brandies, they probably were walking fairly quickly.

As I submit these notes, I am at the annual fall Outer Banks golf outing at Charlie and Margaret Walker’s house in Corolla, North Carolina, “surviving” off Margaret’s Brunswick stew, Charlie’s country ham biscuits, and assorted mixed nuts and chips. Speaking of mixed nuts, this year’s celebrants include John Bailey, Herb Braun,

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Stix Chandler, Jim Mawyer, Mike Snead, Gary Weishaar and Hizzoner Charlie. Early next week, Stix and I will drive to Orangeburg, South Carolina, where we will mooch off David and Katy Schmidt for a few days before heading on to Charleston for the VMI versus The Citadel football game next weekend. There we and our wives will reconvene with the Baileys, Weishaars and Walkers, ex Charlie. It seems that Charlie has rejected the concept of retirement and joined a firm with a contract in Bahrain, where he will reside for at least three months. It looks like Phil Jornlin will also be heading to the Middle East with an anticipated three-year assignment in Amman, Jordan. Best of luck to both of you, brother rats.

That’s all for now. Be sure to check out the VMI’70 Facebook page for reunion and other pictures and comments posted by our BRs. Also, if you are not on the brother rat email list, just send me an email at ClassAgent1970@aol.com so you can keep up with BR and Institute related news between issues of the Alumni Review.

In the spirit!

’71

Jim Kelly

These notes will cover the period between Aug. 15, 2015, and Nov. 1, 2015.

I hope that the New Year so far has been kind to everyone and that you had a great holiday season. Valentine’s Day usually is near when this edition of the class notes is published. As I begin this set, it is two days before Halloween, and four uncarved pumpkins are sitting outside our back door waiting to be given their scary or smiley faces, depending on the whims of the person with the blade in hand. Kathryn and I are blessed to live in the perfect neighborhood for trick-or-treating, with plenty of houses, quiet streets and culs-de-sac. We also have the first driveway on our street, and people have been known to make reservations to park there. Due to the sharp increase in the price of chocolate, we will only be treating the first 200 children.

After that, it will be lights out.

We are deep into VMI’s first football season under the direction of Coach Scott Wachenheim, and our record to date is not a true reflection of how well our young men have performed.

Some of our opponents took us to the woodshed, but others were lucky to have beaten the Big Red. Our opener against Ball State University on the road was a shootout, but a 48-36 loss. The first reunion weekend in Lexington, we got our first win of the season with a close 43-40 decision over Morehead State University. The Richmond Spiders are among the best Football Championship Subdivision teams in the country and simply overpowered our team 42-10. That game was as a Corps trip, and I was reminded of the first weekend in October 1967 when we made our first trip out of barracks for the Tobacco Bowl in Richmond. Furman University and Bucknell University (overtime) were games that could easily have gone either way, but they didn’t. The second reunion weekend was homecoming, and the Keydets were out gunned by a strong Samford University team resulting in our worst loss (to date) of the season, 49-13. On Parents Weekend, the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga was in town with a team that had previously beaten Samford by 10 points. On that day, we gave those guys a genuine fight but came up short, 33-27. The following week we were back on the road at Mercer University, which turned out to be a great day for our team. After a very long 30-game losing streak on away games, we prevailed 28-21.

Hopefully getting that huge monkey off their backs will inspire our team for the remainder of the season, which includes home games against Wofford College and Western Carolina University and a road trip to Charleston to face The Citadel Bulldogs for the Silver Shako game.

During the season, several members of ’71 were spotted at one or more games including, Gault, Kirby, Coleman, Acuff, Ellington, Mikula, Golden, Kennedy, Bryan, Strickler, Littleton, Wall, Lockridge, Hepler and Metzger.

During Parents Weekend, the VMI Keydet Club hosted the annual Scholarship Awards Banquet. This year’s event saw a record 800 cadet athletes, coaches, parents and Leadership level members of the Keydet Club in attendance.

Our Brother Rat Jerry Acuff was the featured speaker, and by all accounts, his remarks were well received. The “Cuffer” was also the guest speaker for the Class of ’85’s reunion, where he received an extended standing ovation. Jerry also spoke to the Virginia Tech basketball team at their retreat on Smith Mountain Lake.

The Big Red basketball team is also playing

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1971: John Paton in his usual role as the designated driver to and from the parking area. Photo by Rich Clary.

Class of 1971: Entrance to the Metzger compound in Vesuvius. Photo by Kathryn Kelly.

Class of 1971: The Ol’ Corps flag, designed

by Erwin Hanke, flies over the Metzger Lodge. Photo by Kathryn Kelly.

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this year under a new head coach. Following the departure of Duggar Baucom (now at The Citadel), VMI hired Dan Earl, who had been associate head coach at the U.S. Naval Academy. Coach Earl also added three new assistant coaches to his staff. We open the season in Cameron Hall against Tusculum College Nov. 17. For the last few years, members of our class have had a get together during the season when there was a home game on a Saturday. Those dates this year will be Jan. 5, Jan. 23, Feb. 6 and Feb. 27. Hopefully we will be able to put something together for at least one of those weekends. The game Feb. 27 is against The Citadel and our former coach which make for an interesting match-up.

Football and basketball tend to get most of the headlines when it comes to athletics, but there is much more to VMI’s sports program. We currently have 18 teams: 11 men’s and 7 women’s.

Two of our brother rats, Lanny Gault and Jerry Acuff, serve on the Keydet Club’s Board of Governors, and we have a good number of classmates who are Leadership Level donors to the Keydet Club. During Parents Weekend, the Keydet Club met to discuss various aspects of VMI athletics. Lanny shared with me some of the major points of discussion. First of all, our win and loss records do not tell the whole story.

Our teams continue to show improvement, and there is a lot of positive energy with our coaches and student athletes. So, the question becomes, “If we have good coaches and great men and women participating, what will it take to produce winning teams?” At least part of the answer lies with two critical areas: Funding and facilities. VMI’s enrollment is not likely to increase any time soon, meaning that the amount of money generated from student fees applied to athletics is very limited when compared to other schools. Twenty-nine percent of our athletic budget comes from student fees. That is nowhere close to schools like The Citadel, for example, which gets 67 percent from student fees. Virtually every school in the Southern Conference receives 70-80 percent of its athletic budget from those fees. The Keydet Club has been able to raise a considerable amount of money, but having enough money will always be a challenge. Our facilities need upgrading, and our budget for recruiting – particularly out of state – needs to be increased. Those resources are going to have to come from alumni

support and private contributions. At this point, only 17 percent of VMI alumni contribute to athletics. You can do the math ... 83 percent of our alumni (many of whom were scholarship athletes) are not helping. Gentlemen, we have all got to do some soul searching and ask ourselves, “How will VMI be successful if we don’t step up and do something about the situation?”

The message is loud and clear ... we need a lot more of us on board. Never say die!

Changing gears, several of our brother rats have made the news, and others have passed along some information to share about their activities.

Paul Fraim, the longtime mayor of the City of Norfolk, has announced that he will not be seeking another term of office. Paul made national news not too long ago when he urged Norfolk and the Tidewater Region to begin serious planning for catastrophic flooding which could result from rising sea levels and/or hurricanes. Considering the “what ifs” for some major coastal cities, it makes perfect sense to have a plan of action ... and I think that in the very near future that definitive action will be taking place. Paul continues to be an active supporter of VMI. In late September 2015, Steve Good was inducted posthumously in to the Central (Woodstock, Virginia) Athletic Hall of Fame.

Paul Burch ’86, a business associate of Sam Kirby, was a former student at Central High and a player for Coach Good. His comment upon learning of Steve’s selection was, “Not a finer man around, and a no-brainer for such an award.” Those of us who knew Steve well or, as in my case, had the pleasure of being a roommate, I am sure would agree with Paul’s remark. Steve’s widow, Jo Ann, stays connected to and is very supportive of VMI, and I know that she is very proud of our BR. Rick Siebert relocated to Rockbridge County and is currently renting a large farmhouse with about 19 acres of land located near the horse center. Rick and his wife have two horses, and they are in the process of finding a smaller house with enough land to still do some horseback riding.

Around the first week of October 2015, I got an email from Buck Jacoby’s widow, Elizabeth.

Her oldest son, Bert, was planning to attend a seminar being conducted at VMI and wanted to know if any of his dad’s brother rats were still

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Class Notes in or around Lexington. I sent a few possible hiking, fishing, golfing and a whole lot of just page. Present for one or more events were Biecontacts but have not heard if Bert was able to plain fun chatting with brother rats and their gel, Biersack, Bryan, Clary, Fogleman, Garwives/dates. The Saturday dinner was a sight rett, Gault, Hanke, Haywood, Kelly, Kirby, visit with anyone from our class.

There are many stories about class rings that to behold and featured “world famous” dishes Lewis, Lindsey, Littleton, Matthews, Meng, prepared by Laura, her sister and several other Metzger, Noon, Padgett, Paton, Piernick, get lost and turn up sometime later and get returned to their owner or their families. Seldom people to go along with a catered barbecue. Ronayne, Siebert, Sowers, Tashima, Weise, do we hear of a Ring Figure pin Westbrook, Brumback, Acuff, Dunlap, Strickler, Golden, Rogers and (like a civilian fraternity pin) being in the same kind of story. Almost a some special guests. year ago to the day, Warren Grasty I am not sure if Tom Sowers had ’70, class agent, contacted me about been to the fall mini before, but as a ’71 Ring Figure pin that belonged the Old Corps and football were to a woman who recently died. Her being discussed, we were reminded family in the northern Virginia area that Tom still holds the VMI record wanted the pin to be returned to for the most carries in a single game the person who had purchased it (52) against Davidson in 1968. VMI back in 1969. Geoff Schelhorn was won that game 21-17, and it was our also involved in some way. Warren only win that season. VMI won six got the pin and brought it to a class games our 4th Class year and two agents meeting at VMI last Nogames (total) for our 3rd, 2nd and 1st Class years. vember. I was unable to attend that I just received the first quarter Fisparticular meeting, and my brother, Class of 1971: From left, Ron and Shirley Jean Lewis, along with Mike Kelly ’73, class agent, picked Buddy and Carol Bryan, got things moving for an evening of cal Year 2016 Annual Giving figures. dancing. Photo by Kathryn Kelly. it up and got it to me.

As of this date in late October, ’71 Buddy Bryan sent out an email has an alumni participation rate of to our class describing the situa6.3 percent, which is a little behind our average. It is still early in the givtion. We knew the girl’s name and ing cycle, and I am confident that our that she attended Southern Seminumbers will improve. As always, I nary and had apparently dated one of our BRs at Ring Figure. Erwin thank each donor so much for your support of VMI. It is absolutely esHanke took an interest in the case sential that we continue to stand and researched old Southern Sem behind and support the outstanding yearbooks, the Ring Figure magazine and other resources but had no young men and women in today’s luck. The case “went cold” until just Corps. Tuition and fees for an instate cadet are now over $25,000 and recently, when several classmates for out-of-state more than $48,000. were telling stories about our first Financial aid is awarded (not surday in the Rat Line and Kirk Murray realized (after reading last year’s prisingly) to more than 85 percent of email) that he was indeed the person Class of 1971: From left, “Rooster” Westbrook, John Ronayne today’s cadets. and Jerry Acuff relived the old days on the gridiron for the Big being sought after. Kirk is now in Red. Photo by Rich Clary.

You have already gotten the dates possession of the pin and may bring for our 45th Reunion Sept. 30-Oct. 2, Before the evening meal, there was a roll call 2016. You will receive information in a timely it to the 45th as a symbol of the Old Corps.

John and Laura Metzger hosted the annual of our deceased brother rats and a moment fashion as far as hotels, fees, favors, etc. The fall mini reunion at their home in Vesuvius of silence in their honor. This year, Big John main thing I need for each of you to do is to upped the ceiling for the weekend by bringing block out that weekend on your calendars and during the weekend of Oct. 24, 2015. Some of the early arrivals began coming in Thursday in a live band (the DiDells) to finish up the eve- make plans to be in Lexington. of that week, but most came for Friday and/ ning with dancing in the pavilion. Many thanks I hope the rest of the winter is not too bad, or Saturday. Friday night featured a dinner at to John and Laura and the other BRs that were and a great year is ahead for all of us. Let me the Southern Inn in Lexington with a large part of the planning and carrying out the event. hear from you if you have news items or suggesgroup in attendance (possibly the largest group I have included five pictures (my limit) in this tions for reunion activities. Kathryn and I look ever at the SI, according to some sources). edition of the notes, and there are other phoforward to seeing you soon. We will probably Saturday activities included shooting sports, tos that appear on the Class of 1971 Facebook be in the Richmond area this spring to watch

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Class Notes our grandchildren (Lauren ’26 and Ryan ’27) during their softball and baseball seasons.

Be safe out there and let VMI be heard from today.

In the bonds, Jim

’72

Larry Houseworth

Brother and Sister Rats, Families, Friends and the Curious, Warmest greetings and hearty salutations to you all. “Notes assembly day” has dawned blue and crisp; perfect for patching together the news, views and observations from our throng, light though they may be before the holidays.

I’m heartened by reports of our support of “Mother I.” While it’s never a competition, the percentage of participation by decade provides an interesting snapshot into the mindset of “Old and New Corps.” Our participation rate in the last quarter is the highest of all classes from 1969-86. Again, not a competition, but it’s inspiring ... well done, BRs. You’ll see these notes in the midst of basketball season, but I think you’ll agree that the football team, under new head coach Ted Wachenheim, has shown significant progress.

To the news.

Just after our last deadline, Emily Griffith (Greg) sent this: “I thought you might want a picture from Powell’s (Hughes) retirement luncheon today, Aug. 28, 2015. He retired from the Wilmington District Corps of Engineers. He was the

Class of 1972: Dick Vogel in St. Thomas.

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dam safety officer. Greg spoke at the luncheon and shared a few words about their days as BRs and the time at VMI. It was a lovely luncheon, and he will be missed here in the district and at all the locks and dams in the district. We thought you might like this for the class notes. Our family is doing well. Son No. 1, Edward ’08, is now living in Richmond with his wife and almost 2-year-old son, who already has his provisional appointment to VMI – Class of 2035, I think. Son No. 2, James ’10, is a captain in the Army and is stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. I have retired from teaching prekindergarten and am enjoying some time with people older than five. Greg has been back working at the Corps for a few years and is planning to re-retire Sept. 24, so all is well in the Griffith household.” Thanks, Emily.

I joined Karen and A.J. Fojt and Carol and Phil Wilkerson for a decadent evening of New Orleans cocktails (virgin for me, thank you) and gourmet dining at Ruth’s Chris in Fair Oaks.

Needless to say, the patient occupants of our communal table were sympathetic to our guffaws from Old Corps tales.

Carol Wilkerson (Phil) passed along an interesting article saying that married patients may fare better after cardiac surgery than those single – hmm...

In a flurry of communications among your scribe, Sandy Edens, Tom Moncure and Phil Clayton, Phil said that he and Ava are turning and burning with their Christmas tree farms and in selling Maple Hall ... dynamos, they are.

Scheduling challenges kept me from getting together with Dick Vogel on a recent quick trip to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. But he sent along this with a picture: “Hope all is well. Deb and I made an early 43rd anniversary and went on the Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas out of Fort Lauderdale. Never been on such a large ship. You couldn’t tell you were moving. If any BRs are into cruising, we highly recommend. Picture below at St. Thomas. Have not forgotten my roots.” A man in his element.

From John Sayers – “Everything is good here in Staunton. Joan and I continue to love retirement. We spend a great deal of time at our farm in McDowell. We are starting to get ready for maple syrup season in February and early March. I gave up track coaching at Buffalo Gap High School this year. Also, we celebrated the arrival of our second granddaughter in May!” I love these grandchild stories!

Speaking of grandchildren, your scribe and the lovely Ms. Marie are off to Denver to visit hers (and his parents) then a quick jaunt to San Francisco to see my daughter, Alli, and son-in-law U.S. Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer Russ Strathern.

No plans on their part yet, but they’re young.

That’s it for now, my brothers. Be strong, safe and bonded for you, yours and us.

Rah Virginia Mil! Larry

’73

Mike Kelly

Hello, Brother Rats!

Wow! This year has really flown by. It is now November as I write these notes, and as you read them, we’ll be in winter 2016. It has certainly been a busy time for us, and I know it has been for a lot of you, as well.

I never like to start my notes with bad news, but most of you are already aware of at least some of the sadness our BRs have experienced recently. In my last notes I mentioned that my brother, Steve ’77, was staying with us during the summer as his wife, Deborah, had a bone marrow transplant July 7. Things looked really well for the first few weeks, but then she took a turn for the worst and died in August. Steve is doing fairly well, but I ask that you keep him in your thoughts and prayers as he continues to work with Deborah’s family, his step-son and moves on to continue his life. It has been a tough year for him!

Everyone on my email list received a note from me saying that Jeff Minch and Roland Tiso both lost their fathers this fall. Jeff posted a very moving story about his dad, Leonard C. Minch, a World War II hero, on Facebook, and Roland sent me his comments from the funeral of his dad, Roland Tiso Sr., which I relayed to you. Leonard and Roland Sr. were the real heroes of America.

They just don’t make men like that anymore. The world is at a loss for the passing of these two great men, and we will sorely miss them! I did not know Jeff’s father, but I did know Roland’s. In the last issue of the Review was a picture of “Pop” Tiso with some of us at Roland’s daughter’s wedding last April. Pop was in Tampa visiting with Roland and Judie the week before he died, and I hope was able to see his picture in the Review, as I promised

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Class Notes him it would be there. Roland said Jim Davidson was able to attend Pop’s funeral. Jim’s dad and Pop were good friends starting from the earliest days of our cadetship. Both served in the coastal artillery in the early days of World War II. Please keep their families in your thoughts and prayers.

Pat and I have really been busy this fall. Sometimes I think I need to go back to work to get more “free time.” We have been enjoying our Swedish foreign exchange student, Markus Ydreskog, who is staying with us as he attends high school here in Raleigh. We have taken him to the ranch in Pulaski, to the beach and the state fair, and we are headed to Boone for an Appalachian State University game and super tailgate this weekend.

And he seems to be enjoying my cooking! Of course, Pat has given him a personal tour of the University of North Carolina campus! We have also been baby-sitting one of the grandkids in Greensboro, and I’ve been doing some environmental consulting work while Pat works her old job one day a week at the “new” North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (formerly the Department of Environment and Natural Resources). We planned to take Markus to Lexington to a VMI game earlier in October, but it was the week of super rain and we decided not to go.

The Raleigh (Central Carolina) Alumni Chapter has been having a monthly breakfast and planned a get-together Nov. 5 for a Founders Day Celebration. We also planned to attend the Institute Society Dinner Nov. 11 and hoped to see a lot of you there. Seems like there is something going on all the time! But we love being retired.

I have not received as many comments from you guys this fall as usual. Perhaps you, too, have been busy with retirement, moving or grandkids!

I received a note from E.D. Woomer, who as I mentioned in the last issue of the Review, planned to retire and move from Houston to Asheville, North Carolina. E.D. said they made the move after selling their house in Houston in three days.

They put their stuff in storage, rented an apartment and are now house hunting. He said they were really looking forward to four seasons, the mountains, the fall foliage, snow and a slower pace of life! He said he and Janet were finally realizing their “retirement dream.” Welcome to North Carolina, E.D.! I think you’ll love it here, and I bet you enjoyed the fall scenery!

P.X. English said he has gotten settled in Greenville, South Carolina, after moving from Maryland. P.X. said they attended the Furman

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University versus VMI football game this fall but did not see any other of our BRs there. He did say that John Kiracofe lives close to him, and they have communicated, but John indicated he doesn’t get out much. However, P.X. is trying to get him more involved with VMI activities, as he is working with the Carolina’s representative for alumni to explore the formation of a chapter in the area. P.X. was the representative at the Greenville County consolidated college fair this fall, and it was the first time in many years that VMI had been represented. Sounds like you are getting VMI a boost in the “up-country” of South Carolina. Keep it up, BR! John Benson sent me a note saying he and Janet had sold their home in Woodbridge, Virginia, as he was retiring from the Department of Defense at the end of 2015 and planned to move back “home” to Murfreesboro, Tennessee. Best of luck with the retirement and move, John!

I had not heard from Ed Hall in a while, so I sent him a note to see what was up with him. Ed said he had been busy this summer with work, the gun club and American Legion activities. He has also been working with the Maryland VMI alumni during the college fair season and lamented about

Class of 1973: Jim Davidson, left, attended the funeral for Roland Tiso’s dad in October. Their dads were good friends, and both served in the Army during World War II. Jim and Roland took time to share some memories of the two and of the Old Corps days.

missing P.X. English, who had worked with him over the years. Ed said he continues to follow the careers of cadets they recruited and works with them in their future military assignments. Great hearing from you, Ed! Thanks for all your hard work. P.X. is trying to establish an alumni chapter in South Carolina and helping to recruit there, so he isn’t loafing! You guys keep up the good work.

Frank Joyce sent me a change in his email address, but I don’t think they were moving. He and Barbara were doing fine.

I recently heard from Steve Arthur asking about which one of our BRs flew the SR-71. I really didn’t know, so I sent a note to Rich Lykins, who was class agent before me in the hopes that he may know, but he was not aware of anyone flying it. So, if you are the “one,” please let us know. I told Steve we recently watched a program about the Blackbird on the Smithsonian Channel and found it to be quite interesting. I know that Rich, R.B. Newman and Blake Thomas flew for the Air Force, and Rich and Blake flew commercially.

I am not sure if Blake has retired as yet, but he indicated he was considering it in my last communication with him.

Rick Gribling sent a note a couple of months ago saying that he was headed to Germany for a few weeks and asked for contact information for Dave Schwab. He was hoping to get up with Dave on his trip, but Dave was moving about the same time, and they were not able to connect. Rick has since learned that he will be teaching a class in Stuttgart next year for 14 weeks and that he and his wife, Rebekah, planned to spend Christmas in Inverness, Scotland, this year. Wow! That sounds great! Hope you all have a wonderful time.

Bob Poynor sent a note to say that his wife, Sandy, finished her chemotherapy. She is doing pretty well but has some neuropathy in her hands and feet and does not have a lot of energy. Bob says things with the Air Force doctrine at Maxwell Air Force Base are still moving along, and he continues to update doctrines and training manuals as the military goes through its “fundamental transformational.” Bob is enjoying the weekends on his motorcycle and says he is hitting the gym “regularly” but can’t seem to run as far and as fast as he used to! Don’t feel bad, Bob, I know how it is, and I just got my Medicare card in the mail! Ouch!

I have gotten some additional messages from Jim Wrenn regarding Jonathan Daniels ’61, who was valedictorian of his class. Jonathan was murdered in Hayneville, Alabama, as he was

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes marching in support of civil rights and equality for African-Americans, and August 2015 was the 50th anniversary of his death. Issue 3 of this year’s Review had a very interesting article about Jonathan, and I encourage you to go back and read it if you haven’t already seen it. Jim said VMI has a library in the English Department honoring him, and there is also a Jonathan Daniels Award which has been presented in the past to Jimmy Carter, Andrew Young and a VMI 1968 graduate, but he was not sure who it was. (Editor’s Note: The Daniels Award has been presented to President Jimmy Carter, 2001; Ambassador Andrew Young, 2006; Dr. Paul Hebert ’68, 2011; and Congressman John Lewis, 2015.) Jim said he entered VMI honoring Stonewall Jackson and left honoring Jonathan Daniels and will continue to research Daniels’ legacy.

Bill Spencer sent a note from Jacksonville, Florida, to say he was doing well and enjoying the bright sunny days of Florida. He was also looking for Doug Payne’s contact information, as he was planning a trip to the Corpus Christi, Texas, area.

I copied Doug on my reply, and Doug sent a note back to say he was “still here.” Doug and his wife, Debbie, hope to take a trip down the Danube River next year with the VMI Alumni Association.

Roland Tiso has sent several messages since the passing of his dad, whom we all called “Pop.” He was going to get up with Jeff Minch about the loss of his dad and to share some stories about their heroic days. Roland told me earlier that his contract with OG Systems LLC ended Aug. 31, and he was looking for other opportunities to do some consulting contract work, as he isn’t ready to retire; however, some of the positions he is looking at most likely will require additional overseas travel. Good luck with the job hunt, Roland, but we like it better when you are on American soil! Roland had a couple of speaking engagements at Washington State University. One was as the commissioning speaker in May and again in September as the guest speaker at the ROTC dining-in. He was named the first honorary colonel of the WSU Cougar Battalion! Roland’s most recent championship in bodybuilding was in October when he won the Masters Championship at the Southeastern USA championship in Orlando.

Roland said the family was all doing well.

Our class Facebook page continues to grow.

If you aren’t participating in this group, you are missing out on some interesting things! It is a closed group, so contact Tom Clark if you would

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like to join up. There have been recent posts by Larry Mays, Ray Burton, M.B. Adelson, Bill Spencer, John Leon, Richard Bancke and Dave Schwab. On Sept. 12, the roommates of room 148 all got together for a wedding vow “renewal” in J.M. Hall. Sandy and June McNamara, Art and Phyllis Pendleton, Matt and Beth Tignor, and Larry and Debbie Mays, all participated.

Tom and Bonnie Clark posted some great pictures of the hot air balloon festival which they took while in Albuquerque, New Mexico, visiting Tom’s mother. Then in September Tom and Bonnie took their annual drive through northern Colorado to Estes Park for a viewing of the Aspen trees.

Looks like you were having a lot of fun, Tom! I also had a really nice handwritten letter from Bob Luther. Bob said that he and his wife, Melanie, were having a wonderful summer and had started it by attending New Market Day in Lexington. They had not been there for a while and were very impressed with all that has been done in the past few years. Bob said they also went to Park City, Utah, in June for vacation and hoped to also get down to Arizona sometime this year.

He attended a rat send-off in the Pittsburgh area, and they have four recruits – including one young lady – at VMI now. They were all excited about going to school at the Institute, and some had gone through the summer program and were very happy with their experience. Bob and Melanie’s children all live Virginia. Kiersten is in Charlottesville and plans to get married next summer, Kurt is a professor at the school over in Blacksburg, and Rob is council to Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama. Bob shared some of his remembrances of his rat year rooming with Paul Jalbert, Norris McClain and Willie West. Paul was the only one from that room who graduated; however, Bob said he really has some strong bonds and fond memories for the Institute. Great hearing from you, Bob. Please stay in touch.

Our leaves have just started to turn here in the Raleigh area, but they are beginning to really show some beautiful colors. Pat and I were in Colorado a couple of years ago and saw some of the Aspens out there and know how pretty the fall can be on both sides of the country! It will be cold and most likely snowy for many of you as you read this set of notes. I hope that you all had a wonderful Christmas and are having a great New Year! Please stay in touch and be careful out there!

In the bonds, Mike

’74

Snookie Parker

Class notes for the period from Aug. 6 to Nov. 1, 2015: Greetings Brother Rats, Family and Friends of the illustrious VMI Class of 1974!

All is well on the homefront, even though old man winter is knocking on our front door – in the 30s last night. I trust all is well with you and yours as you read this eclectic edition of our class notes ... recorded in no particular chronological order.

It is likely that some of our BRs did not have access to the flurry of email traffic associated with the copy of the 1974 Bomb advertised on eBay. To start, Charlie Gardner noted a 1974 Bomb for sale on eBay ... resulting in a flurry of BR email traffic.

Turns out that in addition to the Bomb advertised on eBay, Bobby Cunningham has an extra Bomb for anyone who needs/wants one. Bobby writes, “After reading John William’s email, it dawned on me that I have two copies of our senior year Bomb. I had bought my parents a copy as my graduation gift to them. After failing rat math four times, I thought they deserved something in return considering my final attempt to pass – and successfully – was at George Mason’s summer school. After they both passed, close to 20 years now, I faithfully kept their copy on the bookshelf.

If we have more than one BR who needs a copy, please send me your mailing address. It is yours.”

Contact Bobby if you are in need of a 1974 Bomb.

Thank you, BR Cunningham!

Since David and Susan Sheppard moved to Wilson, North Carolina, we’ve had an opportunity to get together on several occasions.

Played a round of golf with “the fully retired” David Sheppard at a local course named Happy Valley ... which, after our round, was not so happy. Beautiful day, but the greens were small, domed and as slick as a baby’s hiney. We did get in a few good shots, which we all know will bring us back out again.

Marla and I did sponsor David and Susan Sheppard at the Wilson Cotillion Fall Fling, a new member welcome covered dish function with a bar and band (August Moon, I think – played a wide variety but mostly lots of beach/ shag). Really enjoyed the evening. On the last

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Class Notes evening in September, we went to Durham for dinner and a play. Dinner was at Revolution, a quasi-upscale restaurant within walking distance to the theater. The play: “Beautiful – The Carole King Story.” It was hugely entertaining and a great story. I kind of knew Carole King was talented but did not know how prolific a song writer she was long before she cut her own albums. 112 hit songs to her credit – put the Drifters on the map, along with many others.

In early October, Dave and I traveled to Raleigh to attend the VMI Raleigh Senior Alumni Breakfast. You have to have been out of VMI for 40 years or more to qualify. We enjoyed the fellowship and topped it off with a round of golf at Wildwood Green Golf Course in Raleigh just around the corner from our breakfast venue.

To say the least, we are having lots fun with the Sheppards in town!

On Saturday, Sept. 19, Marla and I were off to Richmond for the VMI versus the University of Richmond game. We had a grand time at the game, even though the outcome was a bit disappointing. I met several BRs and friends at the pregame alumni barbecue. Found Tommy Anderson while on the hunt for the barbecue event location. Tommy is doing well – still working for McGeorge in the car business but has taken on new responsibilities that are much less stressful, which has allowed Tommy to enjoy life more – how could that be? I suspect more time for bone fishing! We walked into the barbecue behind Bobby Ross ’58, who was coordinating entrance for kids and grandkids. Gene and Margo Williams were the first Class of ’74 couple we encountered, followed shortly in rapid succession

by Ricky and Page Kastelberg, Donnie and Barbara Ross, and T.J. and Kerri Wilson. Pat Flynn rolled in with his brother, Larry, and friends in tow: Bill Hogan, a high school buddy who was an all-state wrestler at William and Mary. He and Tommy

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Class of 1974: Present at the VMI versus University of Richmond postgame soiree were, from left, Weldon Neal, Bruce Jones, Snookie Parker, Donnie Ross, Marla Parker, Sue Jones and Barbara Ross.

Class of 1974: Pictured at the Potomac Area Breakfast Club meeting at the Silver Diner at the Springfield Mall were, from left, Jim Cottrell, Don Whitten, Rick Donahue, Clint Anderson, Bill McDonald, Cliff Biram, Don Kilcullen and Mike Andriani. Photo

by Charley Banning.

Class of 1974: Ladies pictured at the Potomac Area Breakfast Club meeting were, from left, Debbie Banning; Twana Biram; Cheryl Anderson; and Cynthia Mercer, who attended with Jim Cottrell.

Anderson had lots to talk about, since the teams wrestled against each other.

Bill’s nephew is a red shirt punter for VMI. Regarding all afore mentioned reprobates, all are doing well and looking good. We did see Bland “Scooter” Massie ’77, dyke of my roomie, John Pate. I felt like I had to strain him – only briefly, though – on John’s behalf. Scooter is doing well in Lynchburg, Virginia. Missed his better half, Jane – she was back in Lynchburg keeping the home fire burning.

The game was sold out – imagine that.

Small world story: By chance, Marla and I happened to sit by Joseph Taylor ’65 and family. As we got to talking, we found out that our neighbor three houses down, Steve (and Lovie) Taylor, is Joseph’s son. What are the chances – small world! Also ran into Billie Stevens ’73 in the stands and Chris Holland ’52 and wife, who we routinely see at VMI athletic events.

We first encountered Chris at a VMI versus Campbell basketball game several years ago when we had to drive through a snowstorm to get to the game. Pete and Susan Shelley and John White were there, as well. Always glad to see Chris at the games!

At the pregame, we all talked about a lot of things, to include several strolls down memory lane and possibilities on how we would win this ballgame, but a subject of most interest was the upcoming VMI alumni trip down the Blue Danube. The Class of 1974 had the most BRs on the Clipper ship trip out of Barbados in 2014 with seven. It looks like we are headed to a repeat.

As of this writing, I believe the following are going or talking about going: Ricky and Page Kastelberg, T.J. and Kerri Wilson, Donnie and Barbara Ross, Charlie and Debbie Banning, David and Susan Sheppard, and Snookie and Marla Parker. Others considering: Pete and Susan Shelly, Ted and Susan Telle, Judge and Rhoda Nottingham, John and Suzanne Pate, and Bruce and Sue Jones. Any additional BRs from Potomac and

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Tidewater Breakfast clubs interested? The highlight of the game night however was the postgame soiree at Bruce and Sue Jones’ house, which is in close proximity to the Richmond stadium. Bruce and Sue Jones graciously opened their home up for this motley crew: Weldon Neal, Donnie and Barbara Ross, Pat Flynn and brother Larry, and Marla and me. Sue’s brother, Johnny Cates, was also on hand to contribute to the festivities. Beautiful home, warm and gracious hosts, libations flowing ... made for lots of laughter throughout the evening. By far the best time that weekend – kudos to Bruce and Sue! Marla and I did stay one more night in Richmond for our 29th anniversary. We stayed at the Jefferson Hotel in downtown Richmond, took the historic canal cruise, saw the team time trials for the International Cyclist Championships and ate our anniversary dinner at the LeMaire ... fond memories!

Lane and Karin Toomey have started scanning old photos and slides. Karin is the computer geek in their house and does this kind of thing in her work. Lane, however, said he is on a steep learning curve to try to figure out how to improve photo quality through Adobe Photoshop. Lane is working on a few photos from our rat year (mostly BRs from Bravo Company) with more to follow as he wades through boxes of photos and is looking for how best to share. Charley Banning was quick to suggest the posting photos on the class Facebook site. I’m sure you will receive some interesting comments! Thanks, Lane!

Another small world story. I was playing golf with Marla’s cousin, Butch Barbee. Of course, I had my VMI colors on display for the round.

Butch wanted to know if I knew his neighbor when he lived in Charlottesville, Virginia – a fellow by the name of Jim De Ford. I said, “Why, yes, I do. Jim is a brother rat.” Not long after that chance discussion, John Smithey forwarded a note he received from an old roommate – Jim De Ford. Jim is the Division Commander for the Virginia State Police in northern Virginia. Jim was looking for contact info for Bailey Hurley and Rick Parsons. Jim did mention running into Tom Puskas occasionally. Contact info for Jim De Ford is 15709 Viewpoint Circle, Dumfries, VA 22025. Home: (703) 583-2111. Work: (703) 803-2617. Cell: (571) 238-3177.

Pat Flynn, Mike Cole and I are still plugging away with our consulting adventure – well, we call it work! We are on the phone or emailing almost

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Class of 1974: Donnie Ross with Dan Quinn, Atlanta Falcons head coach, at Falcons headquarters in Flowery Branch, Georgia. Donnie and Dan were assistant football coaches at VMI during the ’95 and ’96 seasons under the late Bill Stewart.

Mike Tomlin, current head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, was also on that staff. daily, and sometimes it’s about work. Got to love technology, though. On our last conference call with our client in California, Pat called in from France, Mike from Pennsylvania, and I called in from North Carolina. Mike is doing most of the heavy lifting for this client. Lots of potential and promise; just have to connect the dots and make it work!

Good news/proud parent moment No. 1 for

Class of 1974: Pictured at the room 156 mini reunion at Ford’s Colony in Williamsburg, Virginia, were, from left, Craig Smith, Mike Fisher and Ken Terry.

George and Anna Van Laethem – in September, daughter Ashley was notified that she had passed the North Carolina bar. Good news No. 2: In October, George and Anna became grandparents.

Ashley delivered Herbert Allison Hyman Oct. 7. The baby is named after his father and will be called Tripp. Congrats to all!

Speaking of grandpa’s news, I hear tell Jim Cottrell’s son, John, has a son. Congrats!

Craig Smith provided a picture of a Room 156 spring/summer 2015 mini reunion at Ken Terry’s Ford’s Colony Williamsburg, Virginia, abode. I wonder if there was any adult supervision?

Speaking of the need for adult supervision, Charley Banning reported the following on the September Potomac Area Breakfast Club meeting accompanied by the ladies. Jim Cottrell took note of the “adult table” and commented that VMI is “segregating the women again.” Clint Anderson is still dealing with military assistance programs in Israel. A retired Bill McDonald is sorting out his mother’s estate and the associated legal issues. Cliff Biram drove up with Twana from the Tar Heel state and was complaining about getting “middle of the night” calls to fix data problems for the USPS. Mike Andriani was content to view the Pope’s visit from the comfort of his armchair at home. Finally, Debbie Banning was actively promoting the upcoming Blue Danube river cruise next year, hoping the Class of 1974 can assemble another critical mass for this trip, too. Sounds like another hearty round of flapjacks and joe enjoyed by all. How is that for some alliteration?

Jim Garten sent greetings from the Old Pueblo, or perhaps sunny Arizona is more appropriate.

Jim was commenting on my six-month Phoenix adventure with the VA and mentioned he was a cop there many moons ago. He and Robin liked living in Phoenix, especially since there is plenty to do. However, he noted that they live in Oro Valley (Tucson) now. Go figure! At this writing, Jim and Robin were headed to their house in Pensacola for a couple of weeks in the Florida sun by way of Mike Davis in Atlanta. Mike had mentioned that he and Lucy may be in Destin during this time and could get together with Jim and Robin. In addition, Jim planned to get in touch with Charlie Toler, who lives in the area. Talk about the need for adult supervision. I don’t know, should I have alerted the authorities? Jim and Robin did celebrate their 33rd anniversary (Oct. 9) at The Grand Marlin in Pensacola Beach – a great place, food,

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Class Notes drinks and beautiful sunsets. Congrats to you both for 33 years of marital bliss ... well, let’s just say 33 years! Have not heard how your Florida soirée turned out. I trust no one got arrested!

Thanks for the note, Jim. Donnie Ross, on a Keydet Club swing through Georgia, had the opportunity to take a stroll down memory lane with BR Chris Henry in Augusta, Georgia. I would have liked to have listened in on some of those stories! In addition, Donnie got to visit with Atlanta Falcons head coach, Dan Quinn, at Falcons Headquarters in Flowery Branch, Georgia. Dan and Donnie were assistant football coaches at VMI during the ’95 and ’96 seasons under the late Bill Stewart. Oh, by the way, Mike Tomlin, current head coach of the Pittsburgh Steelers, was also on that staff. Dan Quinn’s wife, the former Stacey Keeney, was an assistant athletic trainer for football and lacrosse at VMI during those years. Dan and Stacey are celebrating their 20th wedding anniversary this year. Congrats to Dan and Stacey, who are part of the extended VMI family!

I understand that Madeleine Stowe and family had the great fortune to be escorted by the legendary Roland “Crazy Laz” Lazenby while visiting Lexington. I heard the escort service was as good as the weather. How did Madeleine get to be so lucky? I guess celebrity has its perks!

Well done, Laz! Late breaking happy news: Bruce and Sue Jones are now grandparents. They welcomed in Thomas Forbes Jones Oct. 25, 2015. He was six weeks early – Class of 2037. Elizabeth (Liz) went into labor at a baby shower Sue was hosting. As Sue described it, “Surreal. Quite an entrance Baby Thomas made!” Thomas is tiny but doing well so far! Sue noted that they would be 85 when Thomas graduates, just after our 60th VMI Class Reunion! Wow! Sad news to report. Rick Donahue’s mother, Barbara Loya (Woodcock) Donahue, died unexpectedly at her home Aug. 2, 2015, in Williamston, Michigan, just two days shy of her 92nd birthday. She was a proud American serving her country in the Navy during World War II and the consummate Army wife for 30 years.

Several of our BRs met her when she visited VMI. Our prayers are with Rick, Beverly and the Donahue family.

Every now and then, I run across some good words that speak to me, especially with life’s challenges as I age. I thought I would share: In the

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blink of an eye, everything can change, so forgive often and love with all your heart – you may not have that chance again! In the bonds...

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 email addresses have a half-life of about six months. Keep us current. Send your updated email address to me at snookieparker1974@ earthlink.net, Charley Banning atcbanning@ cox.net or Kevin Nettrour (our webmaster) at nettrour@accessus.net. Check out the website.

Send me a note. Yada, Yada, Yada and Yaba Daba Dooooo! Warm Regards, Snookie

’75

Robert Keller

Hello, BRs. As I look through the shoebox this time, I am reminded of Charles Dickens’ opening lines of his novel, “A Tale of Two Cities”: It was the best of times, it was the worst of times...” There seems to be both good news and not so good news.

August marks the beginning of the academic year, and VMI is no different. However, as we all remember, being an incoming freshman at the Institute was not quite the same as it was at most other places of higher education. The Alumni Association sent out a notice regarding the live webcast of the matriculation ceremony for the incoming rat class. Now I don’t know that I would call what we had much of a ceremony; as I remember it, we signed the book and disappeared with the cadre. Well, I watched it – as did many of you – and it was quite impressive. Paul Bernard was telling me that he had witnessed this when his son, Chris, started in 2004. Paul felt it was a unique way of cranking up the mystique of their first day. I also heard from Uncle Dave Schuyler stating he was so moved by the event that he went down and watched the ceremony. He said that it brought back lots of memories.

While some of us were content to watch the webcast, others were more ambitious. Greg

Diamontopulos and his son, Peter Diamontopulos ’13, decided that there were better ways to commemorate matriculation day. So, Aug. 22, father and son scaled House Mountain. Equipped with three liters of water, an improvised walking stick, and a map that they had found on the Washington and Lee University website, they began their journey. The journey experienced a minor setback right from the beginning as they parked in a location that was 1.5 miles away from where they should have parked. Ah, what’s another mile-and-a-half ?

The trail started out with a gentle climb on crushed stone – piece of cake, Greg thought.

Peter was not so sure. When they got to where they should have parked, the trail took a noticeable steeper pitch on a much more aggressive terrain. Greg said this is where the lungs and knees started to talk with him. Water intake increased but kept to a moderate level. “Don’t want to run out.” At this point, they bumped into a German medical exchange student who joined them for a portion of the hike. I’m sure both were thinking someone with medical expertise could come in handy. After 3 miles, they finally reached the end of the approach trail, which was an elevation gain of 750 feet over 3 miles. Then onto the real trail. Either Peter and Greg weren’t paying attention during their military science classes on map reading (read right up) or the minks got one on them with a bad map, as they took a wrong turn and added another mile going down the wrong trail and back. Now they decided to read the trail signs and follow the trail markers. The trail now is noticeably tougher both in terrain (think narrow) and vertical climb (think steeper) with multiple switchbacks. The medical student pressed on ahead of them and water consumption increased. They finally reached the ridgeline thinking that they were almost there, only to learn that they had to traverse the ridgetop to reach their destination. Peter was starting to worry about his dad, as Greg had more difficulty in this part of the hike but insisted they press on.

They finally reached their goal after five-and-ahalf hours and celebrated the 44th and sixth anniversaries of their respective classes’ rat climbs up the famed House Mountain. After a short rest, the descent began. Now, as we all know, the descent, while going down, is tougher then the climb – especially for older knees. Peter had become the parent and was guiding Pop down the

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes mountain. Greg had consumed his ration of water, and Peter had given him what remained of his. Finally, after six-and-a-quarter hours of total hiking with an elevation differential of 1,900 feet, they reached the starting point. Greg came out of this with two distinguishing thoughts. 1) He felt an absolute joy of accomplishing this challenge in the company of his wonderful son and fellow VMI alumnus, Peter, and 2) that he will never climb House Mountain again. This is an abridged version of what Greg sent to me, and if you would like the full epic version, let me know and I will email it to you. Thanks, Greg, for sharing a wonderful story.

It seems others in our class have climbed the mountain. Al Morgan reported that he and Sandy climbed the mountain in March with Tom and Judy Baur. Al passed on that what we see from VMI is really Little House Mountain, and that House Mountain is on the back side (west) of Little House Mountain. They are contemplating an attempt on House Mountain next spring.

Not long after their climb, Greg Diamontopulos proudly reported that his son, Peter Diamontopulos ’13, was officially selected for the U.S. Coast Guard Officer Candidates School and was slated to begin that effort in January 2016. Needless to say, Greg and Melody are ecstatic for this opportunity for their son, Peter. Congratulations to all.

Charlie Hoon has had a busy summer and wrote to tell me that Mike Garten visited for a couple of weeks at Hoon Haven in Huson, Montana.

In Charlie’s words, Mike is quite an avid rock hound, and they spent the better part of 10 days prospecting for gems and fossils. They dug for arrowheads at a bison jump on Charlie’s brother’s ranch on the Dearborn River and then traveled to Great Falls to visit the Lewis and Clarke Center and the Russell Musuem. After that, they visited the First People’s Bison

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Class of 1975: Peter Diamontopulos ’13 and father Greg Diamontopulos commemorated their rat climbs up House Mountain during VMI matriculation weekend, Aug. 22, 2015.

Class of 1975: Greg Diamontopulos planting the flag to commemorate his climb up House Mountain with his son, Peter Diamontopulos ’13, Aug. 22, 2015.

Class of 1975: At Blue Jewel Sapphire Mine in the Eldorado Bar area north of Helena, Montana, in mid-August 2015 were, from left, unknown, Mike Garten and Charlie Hoon. Mike and Charlie were prospecting for sapphires during Mike’s visit to Charlie in Montana.

Jump Park, which is located in Ulm, Montana. Finally they hunted for smoky quartz in the Lolo National Forest and mined for sapphires in Phillipsburg, a noted locale for such activities. Charlie said that when it was all over, Mike’s backpack had another 20 pounds added in the form of rocks. Mike stated that Charlie is a gracious host and that he had a great trip. If that wasn’t enough, Charlie and Ranae were headed to Cape Cod for a week in mid-September.

Jerry DeWaters sent a note telling me that all is well in New York City and that he is looking forward to entering his fourth year of retirement.

He also stated that he wants a drier winter than last year, as he figures he shoveled enough snow to easily offset any coal that will need to be shoveled if and when we all visit the eternal inferno. J.J. extended an open invitation for any BRs visiting the metro New York City area to give him a call. He is available for BRC, DRC, SRC and golf or hockey depending on the season.

I received some exciting news from Bill Overton. Their son and daughterin-law are expecting a child in April.

This will be OV’s and Dolores’ fourth grandchild. OV has also decided to retire after 38 years of public service as a judge and a prosecutor in Pinellas County, Florida. With four grandchildren, I don’t think you will have any trouble finding things to do. After having retired myself this last year, I often wonder how I had time to work a job and get everything else done.

Enjoy, brother rat; you have earned it.

Mike Horan sent me a great email and filled me in on what’s been going on in his life. He now lives in Acworth, Georgia, which is a bedroom community just north of Atlanta. Mike says that his wife Annie chose this location from watching shows on HGTV and seeing that it was both a desirable location and a good value. He is currently working part time in the insurance business

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Class Notes and expects to be fully retired soon. He has a daughter who is married and lives in Philadelphia doing nonprofit work. As you may remember, Mike had to leave after his 3rd Class year to help his family deal with his ill father and he finished at Old Dominion University. He relayed a story of meeting Jim Hobbs while he was on his year “sabbatical” from the Institute. Mike said that he barely recognized Jim because of the hair and civilian clothes, but he did encourage him to return, and lucky for us, he did. Mike has written and published a book, “The National Militia,” Xlibris Press, 2012, about a VMI grad that leads a special militia in the Middle East.

He is in the process of writing a second more substantial novel, “St. Anna’s Cathedral,” about an espionage plot in Poland that centers around a Catholic church in a small town there. Mike would like to make it back to Lexington for a game sometime and catch up.

Andy Andisheh checked in from Saudi Arabia where he is on a short-term assignment with Fluor. He says that he just returned from a two week R&R and that he was informed that his assignment should be over around Nov. 19, 2015, so he is starting his search for his next assignment or a more permanent job. Work in the oil business has had its ups and downs, but he is hanging in there. He regrets that he was not able to attend the last two reunions. Andy wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving and is looking forward to our 45th.

A brag is in order for Gary Taylor, who was appointed to the board of directors of Global Power Equipment Group, Inc. Oct. 8. I found this on LinkedIn and did not get it directly from Gary, but I’ll take my leads from wherever I can get them. This is really quite an honor and a testament to the success of one of our own. Congratulations, Gary.

Got a quick note from Harry Broaddus from his household that is ‘south of the James.’ His wife, Carol, reported that he is getting older, creakier and not any wiser. Welcome to the club, Harry.

I received news from Dean Armstrong that he is moving from the right seat to the left with Delta. He has finished an intensive, shortened course of training for a captain upgrade on the B-757/767 with Delta Airlines. Most of this time was spent in a flight simulator, which Deano says always kicks his butt, as it doesn’t really fly like a plane. But he has passed and

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now must complete his initial operating experience before they cut him loose. After 20 years in the right seat, he is thrilled to make the move. So, if you are flying Delta on a 757/767, look in the cockpit and see if “Pit” is there.

He and Denise are continually tweaking their house and send their best to all BRs. Rick Law dropped me a note letting me know that he and his wife have moved from Colorado to the Jacksonville, Florida, area.

Dawg said they are still unpacking boxes, and they are trying to find his wife’s Manning jersey. He is trying to hook up with Ron Bongiovanni and check in with the local alumni chapter. Welcome to Florida, BR. Randy Frank took full advantage of his long trip from the far northwest corner of the continental U.S. to Lexington back in April for our reunion. He arrived three days early so he could spend time in Bristol to be able to visit with Mike Fleenor. Mike was a gracious host and hosted Randy at his house and showed him his land and his sorghum press. Randy enjoyed meeting Mike’s sons, Devon and Skyler, and visiting both Bristols, as well as Johnson City, Tennessee, and touring Mike’s medical practice. They then both headed up to Roanoke to visit with Dave and Tana Schuyler. Randy tells me that Uncle Dave runs a first class hotel where the prices are deeply discounted for ex-roommates. After the reunion, Uncle Dave, Mike and Randy met up with Artie and Judy Nunn to celebrate his liberation from the class agent duties. I bet that was a good celebration.

Randy reported it has been an uneventful summer out in the far northwestern corner of the continental United States. Fortunately, those on the west side of the Cascades were spared of the fires that plagued much of the eastern part of the state. He spent Memorial Day participating in the annual “Ski to Sea” relay that starts at Mount Baker about 70 miles east of Bellingham and ends some six to eight hours later with a kayak race in Bellingham Bay. He volunteered to run the Alpine portion of the race up near Mount Baker for their team. His comment for that was, “Man, are we getting old.” Probably not one of the better events to volunteer for, as it is anything but summerlike up in the Cascades in late May. However, the beer garden on the bay at the end of the race more than makes up for any of the physical discomfort he had to endure. Randy extends an

invitation to all who may be visiting the Northwest, even during the rainy season.

Finally, it has been a tough time for our class over the last few months. We were all saddened by the loss of Todd Sain. Todd’s battle with brain cancer ended Oct. 16, 2015. He died peacefully in his home and was surrounded by his wife, Vicky; son, Eric; Mike and Teresa Mulligan; and his four beloved Cavalier King Charles Spaniel pups. Todd fought valiantly against this hideous disease, and as you remember from our reunion, he helped sponsor the Desert Grey Matters 5K Run in May, which many of you helped pledge Mike Mulligan in his participation in this event. Guy Conte joined Mike in Las Vegas and also ran in this event. As Mike told me, Todd was an advocate in southern Nevada. He shouldered the cause of brain cancer awareness, and through his voluntary participation in medical trials, he added significant data points in research, which hopefully will lead to a cure. That, Mike said, was so typical of Todd. We all miss you, brother rat, and our continued condolences go to Vicky, Brian and Eric.

On Sept. 22, Greg Stultz’s wife, Anne, died.

Greg and Anne were married for nearly 40 years, and she was the loving mother of their daughter, Stephanie, and the grandmother of Cooper and Brady. Our continued condolences go to Greg and his family.

I am also very sorry to report that Paul Bernard’s beloved wife, Abby, died Oct. 22. Many of us knew Abby, as she was really part of the class during our stay at VMI. Paul has told me how proud both he and Abby were of their son, Chris Bernard ’08, for attending and graduating with the Class of ’08. Paul is so thankful for the 40 years that he and Abby had together.

That concludes this edition. Until next time, my brothers.

’76

William Bhatta

Brother Rats, These short notes were written Nov. 1, 2015.

I just returned home from VMI. Yesterday, Michelle and I tailgated with Ray Brooks, John and Teri Coleman, Jim and Leigh Ann Delisio, Bill and Lois Favier, Rocky and Betsey Glass

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes (the tailgate hosts), Doug Hines, Lillian and John Swain, Kavie Thrift, and Ruth and Dick Williams. We watched the Wofford College versus VMI football game and observed something you don’t see too often; VMI ran the opening kick-off back for a touchdown! Unfortunately, the Keydets lost the game 41-20. Following the game, the Colemans invited us to their beautiful home on the Maury River for supper. Everyone had a great time!

Lee Bradshaw, Jack Christy, Ares Koumis, Greg Speaker and Rick Wrenn checked in since the last class notes.

Lee and Shirley Bradshaw live in Midlothian, Virginia. Lee retired from Altria Group Distribution Company in June 2013 after 34 years. He volunteers once a week at the Richmond Community Kitchen doing preparation work for Meals on Wheels and plays golf several times a week. Shirley works at a continuing care community west of Richmond, Virginia. Both of them enjoy their three grandchildren: Gavin (nine), and Dillon and Colin (four-and-a-half). The Bradshaw’s daughter, Karen, is working at AGDC, and their son, Jeff, is working out in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Mr. Jack “Baseball” Christy is a lucky baseball fan. After moving to Anacortes, Washington, he attended his first Mariner’s baseball game Aug. 12, and Hisashi Iwakuma pitched a no hitter! Since 2012, Jack has seen three no hitters, including a perfect game. Jack said, “21 perfect games in major league history, 291 total no hitters in major league history. I attended one no hitter before I met Charlotte [his wife], so I’ve seen four no hitters!”

In August, Ares Koumis dropped his son, Andrew, off at Mount St. Mary’s University in Emmetsburg, Maryland. Andrew will attend the seminary there, starting six years of study and formation leading to the

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Class of 1976: At the Colemans’ following the Wofford College versus VMI football game Oct. 31, 2015, were, from left, John Coleman, Doug Hines, Matt Rati ’11, Rudy Glass ’71, Rocky Glass, Jim Delisio, Bill Favier, John Swain, Bill Bhatta, Ray Brooks and Dick Williams.

Class of 1976: From left, Rod Hottle and wife Debbie with Louise and Bob Keneally. Rod lives in Cheyenne, Wyoming. He retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2006 as a colonel. Rod is the director of United Way in Cheyenne. The Hottles stopped in to see the Keneallys on their way to Portland and had dinner together. Bob said they told old stories, including one about a 1st Class pledge to raid every girls’ school within a 50 mile radius of VMI. Bob and Louise live in Spokane, Washington. Bob is the Spokane County maintenance and operations superintendent and plans to retire in three-and-a-half years.

Class of 1976: Dick Williams and his son, Michael ’16, before the VMI versus Wofford College football game Oct. 31, 2015. Michael is an international studies major and Army ROTC scholarship cadet who will commission in the Army upon graduation next year, shortly after the 40th Reunion.

Catholic priesthood. At the time of Koumis’ note, he was heading to San Antonio, Texas, on business and planned to see Mark and Libby Swank.

Rick and Kathy Wrenn live in Winter Springs, Florida. They also enjoy visiting their eight grandchildren who are scattered across Florida and North Carolina. Rick is a program manager for a company doing government contract work. He said, “It works out well that a lot of the work I do is with the Navy in the Norfolk area, so we get to visit home a couple of times a year. I really like the job, so I have no idea when I will think about retiring.” Rick enjoys reading about our brother rats in the Alumni Review, so if you have not sent me a BR update recently, now is a good time to do it.

This might be Greg Speaker’s last year at The Citadel; he started his 17th! He is the tactical officer for the single artillery battery at The Citadel, known as Palmetto Battery. The other 19 companies are infantry companies, and there is a regimental band. Greg said, “I am very proud of Palmetto Battery. It is a very professional unit with seven large guns and the regimental color guard. They also won the Academic Cup last year for the top GPA in the regiment. Certainly nothing I contributed to!” Greg enjoys his summers off. This past summer, he spent 10 days in Egypt and also took an Air Force C-17 to Spain and Germany. He hopes to travel more often after retirement. Other than that, Greg said, “All else goes well, and Social Security gets closer!”

Speaking of getting “closer,” the 40th Reunion is just around the corner – April 22-23, 2016! Hopefully you already received the reunion information you need in my Christmas card to you. If not, or if you have any questions, please contact me. Otherwise, hope to see you in April!

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Class Notes

’77

Steve Neas

Brother Rats, Fall is in full force at this writing. Put the third week of October on your 2016 calendar; leaves are at peak and the valley is beautiful. A nice time to visit Mother I. The second annual ’77 mini reunion has come and gone. Sixty of our brother rats, wives, fiancées and significant others attended. Paul Farrell, Steve Billingsley, Buster Pace and commander of the tailgate Bob Hartzell put us on the front row again. They do an outstanding job. The tailgate is quite an event: Barbecue, Bill Cross’ deadly chili and plenty of your favorite brother rats. Make it your 2016 goal to attend. See the photo to get a sense of who attended. Of significant note, Eric Lentendre and his wife showed. If I remember correctly, this was Eric’s first visit since graduation ... or at least in a long time. Eric has recently moved to Charleston, West Virginia, and is working for BB&T. Mark Abernathy graced us with an appearance. Mark is living in Port Charlotte, Florida. Mark has a framing business and hires young men who, in some cases, have lost their way. He gives them a job, some skill and maybe puts them on a better footing. Another class of ’77 rock star.

Keith Kowadlo made an appearance. I mention Keith because it was great to see him, and Keith contacted me a week before the mini reunion to say he was coming. He learned of the event from Will Bynum and not from my many emails. The problem was the Alumni Association had an incorrect email address for Keith.

I do send out numerous emails throughout the year announcing events and other information.

If you are not getting those emails and you want to be in the know, you can go onto the Alumni Associations website, click on “Your Links,” hit Class of ’77, (you may have to set up a password at some point), search for your name and update the information. If that is too complicated, just write or email me, and I will update your information. If you didn’t attend the mini reunion, we missed you. Please come next year.

My best memory of the day was Chris Nash leading a “telling of stories” at dinner. Many rose during dessert time to tell a story on their self or

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others. Of course, stories cannot be told of the Great Class of ’77 without a few about Buck!

Don Browder rose to tell us the last member of Super ’77 to take off a uniform: Yai Kasemsant, a four-star and defense minister in the Thai Army retired recently. Don also read a couple of paragraphs of the commencement address that Dr. Yanyong Phataralaoha gave at the commencement ceremony of the Asian Institute of Technology this past spring. He made significant mention of VMI in his address. If you would like to read the address, contact Don or myself for a copy.

I had a nice note from Mike Myers. Mike wrote that he is living in Fredericksburg, Virginia. He stopped practicing chiropractic many years ago and has since opened Batteries Plus Bulbs franchises in Virginia and Maryland. He took Mort Mumma around to show him how they worked and the books. Mort now owns five. Mike keeps in touch with Tim Mishkofski. Mike reported that Tim lives in Colorado and is doing well.

Owning a battery and bulb empire, Mike spends most of his time hunting, fishing and riding a motorcycle. He made a ride to Sturgis, South Dakota, and continued on for 24 days after, putting 7,650 miles on his 1100RT. Chris Manno wrote that after a month of attorney negotiations, he signed a publication contract for a literary fiction novel, “East Jesus,” the story of a fictional hardscrabble West Texas town in 1969, grappling with the high price exacted by the “my country, right or wrong” regarding a war

Class of 1977: Mark Hunt with Mrs. Buchanan, wife of Col. W.J. Buchanan. they never understood. Chris hopes it’s a story that can gain traction in its spring 2016 release.

Chris was sure to include a VMI connection in the story. Chris sent me the manuscript, and with his permission, I will forward it to you if you want to give it a go. Meanwhile, he is teaching 19th century British literature at Texas Wesleyan University and flying a full schedule at American Airlines. Chris Manno, truly a Renaissance man, Ph.D., commercial pilot, English professor, cartoonist, musician and author.

The Class of ’77 Mensa Society had their annual meeting in Las Vegas. If you trade stocks, you

Class of 1977: Tailgate time for the Class of ’77.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes may have noticed the USA Barrier Fund (ticker symbol VICEX) spiked the third week of October. The Barrier Fund is comprised of “sin stocks” such as well-performing stocks of tobacco, alcohol, gaming and weapons.

Brother Rats Joe Santelli, Billy Hupp, Buzzy Northern, J.J. Marshall, Jim Bentley, Hobie Andrews, Ralph George and Buster Pace were in Vegas that week.

Our intrepid reporter filed this live report: “This is a live report for your ace field correspondent re: Super ’77 does Vegas!

“This year’s outing was attended by BuzzMax Northen (who finally has proved there is merit in his drawing breath on this Earth, as he truly is not just the king of the craps table, but the master of Buzzerizing every hotel, casino, restaurant and golf course in the state of Nevada, all for the benefit of Super 77!), Hobiecat Andrews, Trucker Boy Hupp, MD from Redlands Bentley, Ralph GP George, Joe Dubya Santelli, Chopster Dee Pace and John E. Buck Marshall.

The week started with a hard fought but successful defense of the coveted cup by the evil black hats (but just wait till next year!) on Shadow Creek, followed by a victory by BuzzMax and Dubya in the official Super 77 Championship at Rio Secco, and ended at Cascata with the presentation of the ‘trophy’ to the No. 1 GI of the Year for 2015 to BuzzMax, who, despite that horrible shankapottamus start on No. 1, fired a spectacular 75 on a tough course, plus snitched $150 out of Dubya’s hands on closest to the pin – quite a day! In between, there were more laughs, hoots, howls and pure tee buffoonery than any other group of eight 60-year-old guys could ever dream of ... well, make that nine guys, as official honorary Super 77 man, ‘JR,’ is truly an official and much beloved part of our group!

“Max provided superior guidance in leading your correspondent away

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Class of 1977: Brother rats in Vegas were, from left, Joe Santelli; Billy Hupp; Buzzy Northern; J.R., the waiter; J.J. Marshall; Ralph George; and Jim Bentley. Seated: Buster Pace.

Class of 1977: Brother rats and wives watched the parade in style during the 2015 mini reunion.

Class of 1977: Retired U.S. Navy Reserve Cmdr. “Sensei” Tim Thompson led his Dragon Force National Karate Demo Team to victory with an impressive performance that won the 1st place demo team trophy at the 2015 World Fall Classic Martial Arts Championships. Tim is the owner/director of the Dragon Force Demo Team and Ryoshin-Kan Karate School in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

from the tables after that 32 hit, so there is actually a nice pot of cash set aside to commence the 2016 outing.

Of course, the cash load would be much higher if knucklehead George has not spent half of those winnings taking a cab from the MGM to the Los Angeles airport to fly home instead of going next door to the Vegas airport (having dumped Trucker Boy in favor of the Chop, he ultimately put posterior in both their faces when he developed a man-crush on the taxi driver (not that there is anything wrong with that!) and just could not stand the idea of getting out of the cab! I really can’t report more due to both the confidentiality agreement we all signed but also because, as I type this a full week after returning home, the event itself is still not even over.

After all, Mad Dog is still out there at the tables, and he is torn between saying he is just reluctant to leave or he is simply starting the 2016 venture early! Dang, if that guy had dedicated a hundredth of the energy to academics that he dedicates to crazy poker, he might have actually had a 1.996!”

Thank you, J.J., for that thrilling narrative.

I haven’t heard anything from Max Floyd, but you may remember he now lives in Jubail, Saudi Arabia – from roof high snow in Russia to the desert. There was a photo on Facebook of Max installing an antenna for his amateur radio setup.

He has received his license in Bahrain – call sign A93JA. It reminds me of the good times that were had by several of you in NEB. Craig Forbes is now a grandfather.

Xavier Thomas Forbes was born Oct. 13, 2015, weighing 6 pounds, 10 ounces and was 30 days early! Imagine the size if he had gone to term.

While there is much more to write, I must get this off to the Alumni Review staff.

Keep those cards and letters coming, brother rats.

Steve

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Class Notes

’78

Tom Brown

Greetings to all! I hope you have had a pleasant winter thus far.

Tom Sliwoski sent greetings from Staunton.

He remembers a few months ago hearing about Jay Hutt’s wife working at Randolph College.

Just before moving his daughter in, she and Tom were down on campus trying to get a look at the dorms. While trying to find someone to let them in the building, who did they run into but Jay’s wife. Tom introduced himself, and she offered to help them should they ever need anything. Tom’s daughter is studying business and equestrian and loves riding horses. The horse is at school, too. Tom is pretty impressed with Randolph and the Lynchburg area. Tom recently laid his mother to her final rest at Arlington (after waiting over nine months). Bob Kirby and wife were in attendance and added some additional comments. Tom’s mom’s ashes were placed in a columbarium niche adjacent to his dad’s remains. It was a very solemn and moving ceremony. Afterward, the Kirbys joined the Sliwoskis for DRC at a nice little Italian restaurant. Bob knew Tom’s mom and vividly recalled her hospitality as he spent an evening at their home in Garden City, New York, on the way to his first duty station in Newport, Rhode Island, way back in June 1978. Bob says turning the big six-oh is a sobering experience. Bob was able to spend it with his wife, all three daughters and their spouses/fiancés, as well as his beautiful granddaughter.

Rob Traver was awarded an Edward A. Daylor Chair in civil engineering at Villanova. An excerpt from an article says it all: “Drosdick Endowed Dean of Engineering Gary A. Gabriele, Ph.D., congratulates Dr. Traver on this well-deserved honor and notes: ‘Rob is known worldwide for his expertise in water resource management, and at the same time is a highly respected teacher and mentor. As the leader of VCASE, he has built a very strong research team that is having a positive impact on urban stormwater management in the Philadelphia region and beyond.’” Rob say he also went hiking in Peru with his wife, Pam, and loved Machu Picchu. He noted that he does not like their

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delicacy of roasted guinea pig! He also says he is looking forward to 60 and getting his Army Reserve pension.

Scott Putney sent along that he is now a grandpa. Scott’s older daughter and her husband had a baby girl in September. Scott’s kids say she will not attend VMI. He wants to know where he went wrong.

Mike McCarthy is finishing up his developmental assignment at the Center for Army Analysis at Fort Belvoir. Mike says CAA is actually located over near the old location of the engineer OCS barracks. He will be heading back to Fort Bliss in December. Mike says after 18 months on the road, it will be nice to be home.

Mike will graduate from the Defense Senior Leader Development Program in April. What the Army and Department of Defense have in store for him he says is still an unknown, but Mike will keep us posted.

Jimmy Leech reports that his wife’s visa was finally approved, and she rejoined him in Corpus Christi in April. They just have to get her permanent residence status locked in. Jimmy said, “Alas, more paperwork, but at least we’re finally living together.” Jimmy is still staying busy with his church and otherwise trying to stay out of trouble.

I had the chance to catch the Wofford College football game thanks to BRs Danny Thorton and Rick Wolffe. It was an enjoyable time. Both are doing well and supporting Big Red every chance they get. Danny introduced me to Peyton Maddox, who is the recipient of the scholarship established in memory of Danny’s son, Peter. Peyton is a fine young man, and so are the two old guys.

That wraps it up for this issue. Please send along your news to make your class notes for the next issue. Remember to join the class on Facebook at VMI 78.

In the spirit.

’79

Michael Ogden

Happy Halloween (at the time of this writing) from the Eastern Shore of Virginia! While I normally end with a tidbit about Renee and I, this time I thought I would start off this edition with a note submitted by her about the dinner party

hosted by Pete Underwood and his wife, Anita, a couple of weeks ago. “Michael and I, along with Brian and Laura Tollie, partook of a fabulous seven course meal prepared entirely by Pete (Michael says, ‘Who knew Pete could cook?!’), complete with a very detailed explanation of the history and composition of each course. It started with separate personal cocktails concocted by Pete for each member of the party. (I can attest that she enjoyed her drink immensely.) Then, each course was served with flair and paired with an outstanding wine. Of particular note was a ‘yellow’ wine direct from France. Quickly becoming comfortable with being waited upon so graciously by Pete and Anita, we didn’t realize it was after 10 p.m. before we had finished our last savory dish of dessert. We had not moved from our seats for over four hours! Between the good food, the excellent company and great conversation, it was easy to become oblivious to the passage of time. I suggested dinner out the next time we get together, but Anita was quick to offer Pete’s services again. She assured me that he does not prepare meals like that just for her! No worries for Anita. We will be looking forward to dinner with the Underwoods again after the New Year.” Renee says I need to start calling Pete a chef and not a cook! Well, I suppose...

Don Starbuck had a busy fall, as he and

Class of 1979: Greg Weaver and his fiancée, Althea Lesane, pictured with Mr. Andrew Young, who has served as a congressman from Georgia’s 5th Congressional District, the United States ambassador to the United Nations and mayor of Atlanta. Young was the main speaker for an event in Wilmington, North Carolina, honoring Althea’s father, who served 33 years as mayor of East Arcadia, North Carolina.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes our hats in Falls Church with all three Carole have been training for their of my kids living and working in the first half-marathon – putting in general northern Virginia area. My more miles than he says he cares to oldest son, Brian, works the bevercount – and, more importantly, son Jason’s wedding in September in age industry in Stafford, Virginia. My Lynchburg, Virginia. Good for you middle son, Gary, is a writer/editor and Carole on both counts! for a France-based public relations Asa Page checked in and shared group here in town, and my daughter, that he just returned from a dive trip Megan, is in her third year of teaching to Grand Cayman Island with Mike English and English as a second lanThomas and Jim Leavitt. Each year guage here in Fairfax City. I had a rethe “friends of Jim” dive club spends ally good time at the BR breakfast that a week on the island scuba diving and Class of 1979: At the brother rat table on the occasion of the Doug Doerr put together in Manasenjoying time away. Each day began combined VMI and College of William & Mary wedding of U.S. sas, but unfortunately, I couldn’t get to with multiple reef dives followed by Army Capt. Ira Houck ’08 and U.S. Army Capt. Laura Condyles, our matriculation dinner. My brother, William & Mary ’08, were, from left, Steve McKenna, Gleb Taran afternoons around the pool where the Glenn McCabe ’80, came up north and Roy Sadler. Laura is the daughter of George Condyles ’80, three BRs kept the other non-VMI and Ira is the nephew of our Brother Rat Steve McKenna. The from Gloucester Point over the summembers of the group spellbound wedding reception was held in the beautiful confines of the mer, and we hit the Steely Dan conwith Old Corps stories from our Rat Business School at the College of William & Mary June 27, 2015. cert with our wives and friends. We There were a significant number of other alumni in attendance Line, cadre and RDC memories, as from ’60s, ’70s, ’80s and ’00s classes. had a super time at Jiffy Lube Live. well as numerous swashbuckling tales While I haven’t seen too many other of adventure from their Navy bachelor days. Al- of officiating, has the same experiences?

BRs, I work with many alumni here in the buildthough many of the stories are repeats from years Curt McCabe sends: “I continue to support ing and share our stories as time presents itself. past, somehow they just keep getting better and HQ Army CIO/G6 as a Department of Defense Hope to get together with the BRs up here again better each year. contractor in the weird shaped building – Penta- in the near future.” Thanks for checking in, Curt.

Larry Adams writes: “My son graduated flight gon. I run into John Carty from time to time, but I think a photo-op in Tim’s “gotta be awesome” school, and after he finishes Air Force Survival, we typically pass each other heading to meetings office is in order!

Evasion, Resistance and Escape training, he will on one ring or another. By the way, neither one Speaking of Tim Bridges, for those who missed report to Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport, of us are on the ‘E-ring.’ I think Tim Bridges lives the news, in April of this year, Tim, a member Louisiana, to begin to learn how to fly a B-52 and out there, though. My wife, Susie, and I still hang of the Senior Executive Service, was promoted lead a crew of fellow officers.” Gotta love those fly boys!

Sam “Nectar” Pace checked in: “Marion and I had the distinct pleasure of seeing Mike and Kathy Oden and Bill the ‘Boog’ and Carol Powell ’77 on Halloween this year. Lots and lots of stories. Trick or treating is fun, you know, especially when you get to our age when there is no need for a mask – well, some of us, anyway ... better not mention any names.”

John Kailey pens: “Finished football season, and I can still walk – unlike last year. Oldest is in his first year of college, and Lisa has recovered nicely from her hip surgery. Other than getting a dog, mulching leaves, harassing my children and complaining at DHA for their lousy mail order prescription service, not much to report. Occasionally I speak to Jim Pigg and Al Soltis. After Class of 1979: Jeff and Linda Minnix, now newlyweds, hosted a ’79 mini reunion in some of the incidents between officials, players August 2015 for some of the local Tidewater area BRs. In attendance were John and and coaches this year, I wonder if all of us ought Jessi Arthur; Grady Andrews and his girlfriend, Diana; Jim and Sara Harrington; Frank and Becky Jester; Asa and Karen Page; Randy and Deborah Young; Pete and Anita to take a class on appropriate behavior. In fact, Underwood; Tom and Donna Herbert; Jim and Sherry Owens; John and Teresa Colonna; I wonder in general if we all ought to take that and Class Agent Michael Ogden and his wife, Renee Rice. class.” Wonder if Eddie Semler, who does a ton

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Class Notes from tier-2 (major general civilian equivalent) to in the evenings. I love that chair, as it brings back of the day. I met Brother Rats John Poffenbarger tier-3 (lieutenant general civilian equivalent) and many pleasant and fragrant memories of Crozet and Brian Tollie on the sad occasion of the funeral Hall. I remain in regular contact with Charlie services for U.S. Air Force Col. Sean (Son) Le ’82 to the position of assistant deputy chief of staff for Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection, Sachs down in San Antonio and Tim Cordle in at the Fort Myer Chapel and interment with full military honors at Arlington Friday, July 9, 2015.

Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, D.C. Williamsburg. I have returned to work as a projWhew, long title, but Tim is the No. 2 for the ect manager with the U.S. Department of State. I Finally, and most importantly, I recently became Air Force (and one of only 17 tier-3s in the Air remain busy working on multiple projects at U.S. engaged to my sweetheart, Elena. We have not set a date but will likely settle on a date for Force) leading civil engineering, force next summer.” Thanks for the great protection, logistics readiness, supemail and pictures, Gleb! You win the ply, transportation, and aircraft and BR Class Notes Input Award! Conmissile maintenance. Says he’s had a blast over the last several months with gratulations and all the best for you an “eclectic” portfolio and dabbling and Elena! Looking forward to seeing in everything from who to arm as rea ton of BRs at your wedding! sult of the Chattanooga, Tennessee, Speaking of weddings, congratushooting and working on transgender lations and all the best to Jeff and Linda Minnix, who were married in facility issues, to figuring out which general officer gets to have fine china!

October!

His oldest son is in his fourth year of For those who missed the news, Bill his Ph.D. program in biomedical enLamb was in a terrible accident back in late August. Bill was on his way home gineering at Drexel University, and his when a drunk driver ran a stop sign youngest will start his senior year next and wiped out Bill on his motorcycle. year at Virginia Commonwealth UniClass of 1979: At a ’79 brother rat dinner commemorating the He had a broken back, broken arm, versity in information systems. Tim’s 40th anniversary of matriculation at the Institute organized by still beating the pavement and com- Doug Doerr and held at Georgios Family Restaurant in Montclair, seven broken ribs, pneumothorax and pleted his fourth appearance at the Air Virginia, were, from left, kneeling, Doug Doerr, John Poffenbarger brain bleeding needing two immediate Force marathon in Dayton, Ohio, last and Farshad Majidian. Standing: Eric Schwarz, Bill Albro, Tom surgeries. He was thankfully wearing Manley, Gleb Taran and Ed Johnson. full protective gear. He is pretty upset, month, running the half-marathon this because the impact destroyed his VMI time. Congratulations, BR! ring (working on that) and damaged Gleb Taran dropped a note: “In July, his VMI belt buckle. After several we had a well-attended brother rat more surgeries and extensive rehab – breakfast at a Bob Evans restaurant in all which went well for the most part Manassas, Virginia. In August, we had – Bill returned to work, writing, “I’m a brother rat dinner commemorating back at work as of Oct. 1: No oxygen, the 40th anniversary of our matricuno walker, I have a cane (it is handy for lation at the Institute. The dinner was grabbing things) and still wearing the organized by Doug Doerr and held at turtle shell brace – not sleeping in it Georgios Family Restaurant in Montanymore. All in all, not bad for nearly clair, Virginia. Attending were myself, being dead. All the brother rats’ comDoug Doerr, John Poffenbarger, Farshad Majidian, Eric Schwarz, Bill ments have been a great help in healAlbro, Tom Manley and Ed Johnson. ing; men I hadn’t thought of in years Rich McGruder was unable to attend, wanted to reach out and make me feel as he was traveling on business in Ger- Class of 1979: Attending their 40th year reunion at J.E.B. Stuart better. My eyes fill every time I think High School in Falls Church, Virginia, were, from left, Wilton about it. I don’t know where to begin many and France, so his wife, Dawn, Holmes, Bill Bersson and Randy Young. to thank everyone who has been so was my date for the evening. I stay in regular contact with Brian Tollie. He stopped in to Embassy Baghdad and U.S. Consulate General much help.” I think you just did, Bill. So glad you Basrah. I am also planning a New Embassy Comare on the mend, BR. check on my work-in-progress patio project in AuGeorge Eliades is preparing for the holidays gust while visiting his in-laws, who lived around pound at Doha, Qatar. Brother Rat Rich McGrudthe corner from me. They have since moved away. er works down the hallway from me in the same “here in the RVA. My oldest, Stuart, just got enBrian presented me with a very nice Crozet Hall office. We have regular brother rat lunches where gaged to a great girl. Looking forward to an Ocmetal chair from our era at the Institute. I use it we solve all of the world’s problems. It is just that tober 2016 wedding! Been chatting with John as my briefcase parking place when I return home no one asks us for our solutions to the problems George and trying to meet up with him soon.

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Class Notes Also have been having fun and spirited political debates with our BR Phil Truitt through Facebook. Sadly, my next-door neighbor and 1st Class dyke’s roomie, Curtis Butterworth ’76, died a few months back.” Sad news about Curtis. Thanks for the note, George, and keep at Phil! Your ongoing discourse is most entertaining.

Our “first time contributor” this go ’round, John George, wrote, “Well, I’m feeling great. Janet and my sons also are well. Janet recently accepted a position as assistant nurse manager in the emergency room of a local hospital. I am so proud of her! As for me, I was laid off March 2015 ... again.

Third time in my career. This time, I was working for five years as a consultant and then permanent with Loving Care Agency. They provide skilled nurse and home health aides for home care for pediatric and geriatric patients, so they can remain at home rather than being institutionalized. I was their corporate trainer. I really loved working with this company. Great people. They were bought out

by Epic Health Services out of Texas. They had no need for another trainer. I did some volunteer training for the New Jersey Department of Unemployment giving people insight into interviewing.

Everything from how to dress to what questions they should ask a potential employer. My counselor looked at my resumé and asked if I’d mind helping out. Well, I have nothing else to do, so I also rediscovered my passion for working with my hands. I’ve got a pretty respectable wood shop and have been working on some projects for my neighbor. Also, I’m helping my sister in Kinsale, Virginia, with some home repairs on her ‘rivah’ house. I’ve been there quite a bit over the last few months. My next project will require jacking up the roof, and I may need some strong backs and weak minds to assist. All in all, life at the beach is great. Of course, 28 days after we moved here, we had to evacuate due to Hurricane Sandy. We were in a hotel for six weeks. For the most part, the area has recovered. There are still some people who have yet to rebuild. We’re getting there! My thoughts to all my BRs. I miss you all and hope you are all doing great. I can’t wait until Janet and I retire and move to the great commonwealth of Virginia.” Thanks, John. Great hearing from you.

Come join Renee and I on the ESVA! Dan Sheahan reported the sad news that his brother, Dave Sheahan ’80, died in late August.

Dan said, “Class agent ’80 and Jordan Moore at the alumni office were great at helping me out and answering questions. Dave died of cancer, which

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unfortunately, we have seen happen to a few of our classmates. I was able to visit him on several occasions in Sarasota and have some laughs about life and our cadetship. I will miss him.” Our deepest condolences. Dave will be missed.

Dan continued, “Other news: I had dinner and a good visit with Dean Smith when he was in Spokane recently. He’s busy working a border project for General Services Administration in San Diego for several months. I see Bob Keneally ’76 occasionally since we seem to represent the Spokane VMI club. Bob’s staying fit running and hiking.

We have lunch or coffee once a month and catch up. I’m contracted to work with the Gonzaga University’s ROTC department. Last summer at Fort Knox, I met the VMI professor of military science, Doug Vincent ’92, and several VMI cadets. I’m impressed with the quality of the program and the VMI female cadets. Every cadet I encountered was an athlete scholar. My wife, Bridget, is still working hard in the two dental clinics out here, and I do some of the maintenance and anything else to assist. To stay in shape, I still swim quite a bit. Ski season is almost here so will get out into Canada and Montana for some backcountry skiing.”

Bob Sievert is still doing the consulting thing and his new office is an airport ... Richmond, Atlanta, Charlotte, Chicago, LaGuardia, St. Louis, Columbus and a couple of times Honolulu. Bob said, “Actually my mainstay now is working with the state purchasing folks in Missouri and Ohio to put in a procurement system like we did here in Virginia. While the travel can be a bit much, the people I get to work with at each of these states are amazing – devoted to their jobs and making a difference, which makes my job a real pleasure.

On the family front, as you shared in the last class notes, our first grandson is doing great. Three months old and big enough to think he’ll be a toddler anytime now. We are looking forward to a big family Thanksgiving gathering here in Richmond with most of our kids and our new grandson. You can guess who will be the center of attention! Angela is still doing her animal rehab thing, as well as her kitten bottle-feeding service for rescue babies.

Quite a pleasure for her, though she can have some long nights with the littlest of these critters needing nighttime feedings. Our latest ‘fun’ trip was just two weeks ago with a nice visit to my parents and family in Colorado to celebrate Dad’s 80th birthday and their 60th anniversary – a nice trip to a great place. We are also still in the ‘slum lord’ business with apartments in Buena Vista. While

we haven’t had the horror stories we’ve heard about from others, being a landlord certainly adds to the workload and brings its own recurring challenges.” Thanks, Bob. Great seeing you both in Norfolk last October.

Here and there: Meade Spotts said, “Mike ‘Silkie’ Thomas, Asa Page and Jim Leavitt are vacationing and diving in the Caymans, again.

My hatred of the both of them knows no bounds.

That’s all I got.”

Doug Doerr emailed, “Nothing to pass this time, other than I have a job change. I will be working for Mantech as a senior analyst, supporting the Marine Corps’ Training and Education Command. Tom Manley did a bike ride from Pittsburgh to Georgetown solo, camping in the evening and carried everything with him. Impressive!”

And Jeff Curtis “retired,” saying he and Betsey recently “took off for Florida for two weeks and then went for two weeks in our RV to Maine, Canada and Michigan. Back for a while now.” Congrats, Jeff ... is that retired, retired ... or?

Thanks again, Eddie Semler.

As always, brother rats, keep safe and stay well.

Annual physicals!

–M

’80

John Gibney Jr.

Hello, Brother Rats, These notes cover the period Aug. 16, 2015, through Nov. 1, 2015, with a large portion devoted to our 35th Reunion.

The period began with an email from Jody Morgan. Jody wrote that she had been receiving the reunion information and was considering attending. Jody and Pup’s three children are all doing well. Cameron is 24, a graduate of Appalachian State University and a graphic designer working in Raleigh, North Carolina. Hannah is 27, a graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University, was married in June and works for a law firm is Richmond as a marketing coordinator. Jake is 30 and working in Washington, D.C., for an architecture firm. Jake received his master’s degree from Catholic University. He is married and lives in Fredericksburg. Jody lives in Nelson County, Virginia, at the foot of Wintergreen Mountain, where she is a licensed real estate agent.

Russ Early sent an email with an update. Russ is

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Present at the reunion were: John E. Alerding III, Eli T. Alford, Philip J. Altizer Jr., Edwin L. Baker III, Michael A. Barnes, Kenneth M. Baybutt, W. Joseph Belkoski, Francis Bell V, Jack M. Bellamy, Kirk D. Berkhimer, Martin O. Bernet, Thomas F. Bersson, John M. Blankenship, James E. Bower, C. Rodes Boyd Jr., Donald E. Bradshaw, John H. Briggs, William A. Brown, Paul D. Bryant, Paul G. Burkholder, Douglas B. Burton, Aaron W. Bush, Peyton V. Campbell, John J. Caplice, Michael K. Cole, George N. Condyles IV, Daniel J. Conn, J. Douglas Conyers, H. Timothy Cox, Craig B. Cox, William H. Davis, W.V. Dunn Jr., Hossein Eshaghi, Hugh M. Fain III, Gary L. Fellows, Richard B. Fowler, Boyd D. Gaines, Sean K. Gallagher Sr., John R. Gibney Jr., David R. Gleason, Chalmers L. Glenn IV, Robert B. Gore, Matthew G. Griffin, Patrick J. Griffin, Dennis A. Hackemeyer, David C. Hagemann, Michael D. Hall, Charles J. Hansrote III, Charles F. Hilton, John F. Hirsch, Jack S. Hodge, Timothy M. Hodges, David A. Humphrey, Lawrence R. Hupertz, Steven F. Ikenberry, Thomas E. Johnston, Raymond P. Joinson, R. Craig Jones, Robert R. Jones, John F. Keane, Paul L. Keel Jr., Thomas R. Kelly Jr., Matthew L. Keys, Karl S. Klinar, Kenneth D. Kovarik, Stephen M. Kraus, Walter M. Kreitler, Robert W. Leatherbury, Gary M. Levenson, John M. Lillard, Dennis R. Loba, Richard V. Lockridge Sr., Andrew M. Ludlum, Michael P. Luning, James R. Lunsford, H. Ali Mahan, Louis E. McBride, Patrick A. McCarthy, F.J. McConnell Jr., Mark V. McLean, Timothy E. Mecredy, William J. Melvin III, Philip B. Munisteri, William T. Nolley Jr., Brian C. O’Neill, Robert P. Osler, William S. Pataki, Joseph T. Paustenbaugh, Dwight W. Pearson, Richard H. Penn, Paul L. Perry III, Joshua P. Priest, Robert P. Quarles III, G. Allen Ramer Jr., Steven R. Roberts, Roberto H. Robinson, Willem A.J. Roelofsen IV, John A. Rudolph, Paul D. Sadowski Jr., R. Scott Sayre, Eugene Scott Jr., Thomas G. Shedd, Harold B. Snyder III, Mark S. Sobota, Daniel B. Sweeney Jr., Kenneth W. Trotman, Dixon W. Tucker, Preston A. Vock, Jeff Washington, Jody H. Weatherwax, Landon Wellford, Robert F. Wheeler, Robert L. White, Alexander E. Woelper, Elliot W. Wolffe, Walter B. Wood, Anthony T. Zoetis and Richard D. Zott.

Class Notes

35th Reunion – Sept. 11-12, 2015

The Class of 1980

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Class Notes a retired Navy pilot and has been a civilian flight instructor living in Pensacola since retirement.

Russ passed along his regards as he and Teawna were able to attend our reunion.

On Aug. 18, Pat Griffin sent an email to members of the reunion committee noting the 39th anniversary of our becoming BRs. There were numerous responses, including Frank Hilton providing a photo taken in front of Old Barracks that day.

Bert Schneider sent an email from his home in Arizona with the subject line, “We’re Grandparents,” following the birth of his granddaughter Aug. 16. Bert also wrote about visiting with Corey Wells of Three Dog Night when the band played in Tucson. Bert and Peggy cannot attend the reunion but passed along their regards.

Sad news arrived Aug. 31. David Sheahan died Aug. 30 in Pensacola, Florida, after fighting kidney cancer for the last 11 months. Kirk Cole and Jonathan Ives were also notified, and Jonathan sent an email with fond remembrances of Dave. Details regarding a funeral were not provided. However, a memorial service was being planned at Dave’s family burial site in Memphis, Tennessee.

September began with snail mail from Robert A. White ’50B regarding his son and our BR, Charles S. White. Chuck is an Assistant U.S. Attorney in South Florida. Chuck recently won a very difficult case for which he was recognized.

Mike Molhoek sent an email from his home in Fort Worth, Texas, with a brief recap. Mike was married in 1988 and has three children. He retired from the Navy in 1995 and has been employed by Union Pacific Railroad for 20 years.

Mike’s daughter, Maggie, now lives in New York City, and Mike connected us. Mike could not attend the reunion but passed along his regards.

Tracy Wilson sent an email from Washington, D.C., noting that due to an out-of-state family event he would not be able to make the reunion.

Tracy passed along his regards.

Dicky Lockridge sent an email in advance of the reunion noting that he would attend and that the 35th would be his first.

Now for a report on the reunion.

The official dates were Friday, Sept. 11, through Sunday, Sept. 13. Pat Griffin led the reunion committee. Our class was headquartered at the Natural Bridge Hotel. Registration began Friday.

Thank you to Rob Quarles for leading the registration team. A hospitality suite was also

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provided. Transportation to and from VMI was provided by bus. BRs who arrived early were invited to attend a reception at Gary Levenson’s house on post. The house has a front yard facing the Parade Ground and a screen porch at the rear. Gary is VMI’s deputy commandant.

The following BRs and their guests arrived early and attended the reception: John Alerding, Phil Altizer, Ed Baker, Tom Bersson, Dusty Boyd, Don Bradshaw, John Briggs, Andy Brown, Hunter Davis, Sean Gallagher, Pat Griffin, Dave Hageman, Tim Hodges, Robby Jones, Matthew Keys, Ken Kovarik, Andy Ludlum, Mike (“one n”) Luning, Pat McCarthy, Jay McConnell, Tim Mecredy, Jay Melvin, Phil Munisteri, Rick Penn, Josh Priest, Rob Quarles, Ken Trotman, Dixon Tucker, Jody Weatherwax, Robby Wheeler, Elliott Wolffe and Walt Wood. Thanks to Gary Levenson and Karen for hosting and for arranging for catering and to our Lexington BRs, John Alerding, Tim Hodges, Robby Jones, Jay Melvin and Scott Sayre, for arranging for the adult beverages. All reports were that our BRs had a great time.

On Friday morning there were two scheduled events – golf or kayaking on the Maury River.

Scott Sayre organized and oversaw 14 participants kayaking on the Maury.

Tim Hodges organized the golf outing at Lexington Golf and Country Club, in which Patti and I participated. We played in a foursome with John and Margie Caplice. The weather was perfect, and the following BRs all reported enjoying their time on the links: Eli Alford, John Blankenship, Don Bradshaw, Andy Brown, John Caplice, Rick Fowler, Ben Gore, Pat Griffin, Tim Hodges, Robby Jones, Tom Kelley, Steve Klinar, Mike Luning, Mark McLean, Jay McConnell, Tolar Nolley, Rob Quarles, Rob Robinson, Dixon Tucker, Preston Vock, Jody Weatherwax, Robby Wheeler, Elliott Wolffe and Bud Zirkle. Thank you to Tim Hodges for organizing us. Thanks also to Paul Burkholder for providing each golfer with a sleeve of golf balls, driving the adult beverage cart around the course and taking photos.

On Friday afternoon, many of our BRs viewed the parade – some on the Parade Ground, others at Moody Hall in advance of our scheduled dinner.

Dinner was buffet style, with several food stations set up inside where larger tables were available, but seating was not assigned. Drinks were

served on the terrace where smaller tables and chairs were available. The dinner was so well attended that I cannot list everyone. Rob Quarles set up a registration table for those BRs who were just arriving but had not yet checked in or were not staying at the Natural Bridge Hotel.

Pat Griffin, standing on a chair, welcomed everyone and provided details about Saturday’s events, including bus schedules, the Beans Bottom run, our class picture and the football game.

I had a nice visit with Keith Frazier, who lives in Roanoke, and with Ray and Carla Joinson, who drove up from Tennessee. Joe Belkoski said that he hears from both Rob Liguori and Pete Peterman and reported that they are each doing well. Peyton Campbell was a first time reunion attendee. Craig Jones was accompanied by his wife of one week. And, I learned about Frank Hilton’s barracks study habits. Again, Paul Burkholder was actively taking photos.

Saturday began with the Beans Bottom run.

Ten of our BRs participated: John Blankenship, Rick Fowler, Tom Kelly, Ken Kovarik, Tim Mecredy, Brian O’Neill, Mark Sobota, Dan Sweeney, Jody Weatherwax and Walt Wood, led by Pat Griffin’s son, John. Dan Sweeney organized the run, and his daughter, Anna, created the artwork for the tee shirts. All finished, with Brian O’Neill finishing first. Walt Wood finished despite breaking a rib in a fall, a break he confirmed upon his return to Peru.

Next, our class formed up on the steps of Preston Library for our photo, most wearing the Class of 1980 golf shirt provided as part of the cost of attending the reunion. There was a threat of rain throughout the day, but the rain held off and our class took our place on the Parade Ground to watch the Corps of Cadets pass in review. We then made our way into barracks. Note that I did not say that we marched.

Perhaps shuffled or limped might be better terms, noting that Larry Hupertz asked if we should stretch before we began our trek. Walt Wood, Hugh Fain and Ed Baker – our president, vice president and historian, respectively – climbed atop the sentinel box in Old Barracks and led our BRs in the traditional Old Yell, despite Walt suffering from the undisclosed broken rib mentioned earlier. While standing in Old Barracks, I heard someone remark that barracks never changes. A response was agreement, with the caveat that one of our BR’s 1st class room was now a girls bathroom.

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Class Notes

Class of 1980: These are 10 of the several hundred photos taken at the 35th Reunion of the Class of 1980. The complete set can be found at https:// www.facebook.com/VMI-Classof-1980-939512306087247/timeline/.

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Class Notes Many of our BRs then had lunch in Crozet Hall. The report on the food and décor was very positive.

The football game against Morehead State University was exciting – ending with a Keydet victory on a field goal as time expired – but ran long. This created a bit of a transportation issue and left little time for a nap at the hotel before our dinner at 1930 hours.

At dinner, our Class of 1980 spirit sheet was hung prominently. Pat Griffin was our host and master of ceremonies. Following cocktails, a video prepared by Phil Munisteri was shown.

I made a few remarks, as did Hugh Fain, before our guest of honor, Jeffrey G. Smith Jr. ’79, dean of the faculty and deputy superintendent for academics, spoke. Our BRs who have passed the great divide were then remembered. Pat Griffin was presented with a gift for organizing our reunion, and Pat presented gifts to Reunion Committee members. Pat then closed the evening by noting that there were several VMI artifacts that were available for purchase, with the money going into our class fund. Throughout the evening, Paul Burkholder was again taking photos.

On Sunday, about 35 of our BRs and their families attended a memorial service under Natural Bridge. The service was led by Andy Ludlum, Pat McCarthy and Scott Sayre. Breakfast was available at the hotel but was not part of the reunion activities.

All told, the reunion was a resounding success. First, thank you to the approximately 125 BRs who returned for at least some portion of the reunion and to the approximately 100 family and friends who accompanied them. Also, thank you to our Lexington BRs who were critical to the planning and execution of the events.

And thank you to the Reunion Committee for their time and efforts. Note to John Alerding – when wine comes in a box, it is by design that the plastic liner containing the wine remain in the box. Removing the liner is not appropriate!

Thank you to Paul Burkholder for his efforts as our de facto reunion photographer. There are several hundred photos posted to a VMI Class of 1980 Facebook page. A representative sample of 10 photos appears with these notes.

To view the complete set, follow the link shown in the caption. These are the only photos published with this set of notes. Other photos that I received will appear in later issues.

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Thank you to Pat Griffin and his wife, Beth, for spearheading the effort.

Lastly, please accept my apologies for any omissions or factual errors. If you let me know what they are, I will print corrections in the next set of notes.

Following the reunion, Pat Griffin sent an email thanking the Reunion Committee for their work. Pat closed by scheduling a conference call for November 2019 to begin planning for our 40th Reunion in the spring of 2020.

Robby Wheeler sent an email noting that, as a pilot for American Airlines based in Washington, D.C., he occasionally has an overnight layover in NYC. Robby also wanted to connect with Andy Brown. Andy is a three-star admiral who is transferring from St. Louis to Washington, D.C. In a subsequent message, I learned that Robby had breakfast with Pat Griffin in Providence, Rhode Island, where Robby had an overnight layover.

September ended with a birthday card email from Don Bradshaw, sent from Fort Hamilton in Brooklyn, where he is the deputy garrison commander. Don wrote that he had a great time at the reunion.

October was relatively quiet. I spoke with Wade Stinnette after seeing the reports of the flooding in Columbia, South Carolina, due to Hurricane Joaquin. Wade and Lannie were still in their Columbia home with no power but had cellphone service.

Patti and I had dinner with Matthew and Tanya Keys at their apartment in lower Manhattan. We saw a video of their house hunting excursion in Fredericksburg, Virginia. We also attended a Halloween party with them Oct. 30.

Don Bradshaw sent an email with an attached photo taken at the wedding of Mike Flinn in San Antonio Oct. 10. Dave Gleason also attended the wedding. Congratulations to Mike and his bride, Bonnie.

Knowing that I am a Yankees fan, Robby Jones sent a text when the Mets made the World Series. Robby and Beth are planning for the wedding of their daughter, Katie, next June.

At our reunion, I was re-elected as your class agent to my fourth five-year term. As I said at our formal dinner, this is a labor of love. It is an honor and privilege to serve. Thank you for the opportunity.

Also at dinner, I discussed social media. I confirmed with the staff of the Alumni Review

that class agents are not to monitor social media for information to include in their class notes.

Therefore, if you want to communicate with our BRs through the class notes, you must contact me directly.

I hope you had a happy and healthy 2015.

All the best in 2016!

’81

Trip Lloyd

Dear Brother Rats and Families, We are in the grip of winter. Thanksgiving and Christmas are over and a new year has begun. Our 35th Reunion is seven months away – Sept. 30 and Oct. 1, 2016.

I am sad to share that Keith Baron’s father, U.S. Navy Capt. Charles Baron, died in August.

Paul Brier wrote that he turned over the 4th Marine Division in October to go to Afghanistan to run the Advise and Assist Directorate, NATO Resolute Support Mission for Gen. Campbell.

Bruce and Trish Kitchen moved to Richmond, Virginia, in November. He will be helping a startup company, Aqueous Solutions Global, get started.

Class of 1981: Johann Cooper at the Hogsback Half Marathon at the Goodwin Dam in Colebrook, Connecticut. Class Agent Trip Lloyd said of this photo, “Perfect racing number.”

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Class Notes Jerry Manley shared that the “VMI Steve Tennant shared that his son, ’81 Chantilly Breakfast Brunch” Oct. Joseph, completed his Ph.D. in Au25 was great. Sadly, IHOP was also gust in cultural psychology at the Uniexpecting Grover Outland, who did versity of Chicago. Joseph received a not show. IHOP ended up setting up postdoctoral research fellowship at St. tents to give away all of the excess Edmonds College, Cambridge Unifood they had prepared. versity in the United Kingdom. He Trip Lloyd, along with his wife, will be there for three years, and Steve Anne, and children, Amanda and expects his summer plans will be set for the foreseeable future. Steve invites Class of 1981: At the Chantilly, Virginia, International House of Liam, took a western Caribbean anyone coming through Kansas City Pancakes Oct. 25, 2015, were, from left, John Cawthorne, Jeffrey cruise in August, visiting Haiti, JaAdler, Mark Olson, Ken Herbert, George Depaoli, Jerry Manley, to give him a shout. He shared that maica, Grand Cayman and CozuJoe Provenzano and Nate Tabbert. dinner would be on him. mel. It was a great vacation with never saw VMI until he matriculated.

Dave Openshaw wrote that he and Mark 50-foot waterfall dives, snorkeling, and lots Johann Cooper wrote that he competed in and lots of beach time. He performed the part Brumenschenkel represented ’81 in Lexington the weekend of Oct. 31 for some golf and a the City Bikes 70.3 Ironman in Miami, Florida, of Charlie Davenport in a local theater producin October. He said it was hotter than expected, tion of “Annie Get Your Gun” and is already football game.

Mark Gonzalves shared that he has been pretty but he was able to finish in six-and-a-half hours planning for the 2016 season of the Virginia for 27th place for the 55 and over age group. His Renaissance Faire. He has also had the family busy with travel from Greece to Australia to Bulast training ride in Connecticut was done while out skiing several times during the season. dapest to New Zealand. He added a little personal time mixed with business, actually scouting for it was snowing; the contrast in weather between Will Council Florida and Connecticut was amazing. He said he the next room 137+1+1 trip.

Mike Plazcek reported his new job is going very rarely gets down to Lexington, but at Grover well, and he is getting used to working from Outland’s insistence, he and Maureen are going to home. He says it takes a lot of discipline to stay the Institute Society Dinner Nov. 11. It sounds like the class will be well represented, and he is looking focused on work.

Dave Richards and his wife celebrated their forward to hoisting a few with the BRs. Greg Wolven and his son, Chris, attended the 30th anniversary with a vacation to Milan, Venice Hello, Brother Rats!

VMI versus Ball State University football game in and Florence. He said there were a lot of churchIt is fall as I write these notes, and we are fies, cathedrals, the Uffizi (The Last Supper) and a Muncie, Indiana, to cheer on the Keydets. Despite nally seeing some frosty mornings here in the wine tour. He still works in biotech for Genzyme, the Keydets’ loss, Greg reported he had a great Tennessee valley outside of Chattanooga. Not a Sanofi company, in manufacturing. Dave’s dad time meeting VMI alumni from numerous classes. much to report from the class, but there have A group of VMI men met at a nearby Applebee’s been some reported sightings of BRs at football died last January. His dad allowed Dave to go to VMI based on Dave’s personal visit, as his parents before the game and then walked to the stadium. games and tailgate gatherings.

’82

Class of 1981: Dave Richards and his wife on their 30th anniversary trip to Italy.

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Class of 1981: The Class of ’81 members pictured at the VMI versus Wofford College football game Oct. 31, 2015, were Brumenschenkel, Gill, Openshaw and Moss.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and Son had been roommates after David Holzbach retired from the graduation while both were going practice of criminal law as a senior through Air Force training. This all assistant state’s attorney for the was included from Bill’s note, and state of Connecticut after 27 years. he has suggested I get the rest of the He and Sheila with their two dogs, story from Del. Thanks, Bill!

Morrigan and Arthur, moved to SeOK, this is going to be challengbastian on the east coast of Florida. ing. Bob Louthan posted on the David says he is enjoying the “quiet” (ie: stress free) life of a retired class Facebook page about weeksemi-senior, Sheila is pursuing her end events at VMI that he and Kathy attended. They were at art dreams and the dogs are hunting Geckos all over the yard. Life Parents Weekend with Jack Wainis good. Semi-senior ... I like the Class of 1982: Bill Jennings, Dave Kohler, Bob Louthan, Emmitt wright, George Mayforth, Scott Heltzel and Keith Jarvis had a good time at Moody Hall.

Crumpler, Emmett Heltzel, Joey sound of that, David.

Mel Talley finally made it back to Keyes, Keith Jarvis, Larry WilVMI after many years. I have been liams and Mark Shifflette. Wives. following him the past few years on Just like that. “Wives.” Well, Sister Facebook, where he will announce Rat Lynn Heltzel came to his assisa new showing of his photography tance by supplying the names of the art. He took the opportunity to “wives” also present: Tansy, Chrispractice his photography skills and tine, Lynn, Jeanne, Lynne and Debhas completed a stunning photo of bie. “We wives have names, too!” barracks after seamlessly stitching (Thank you, Lynn. Ouch!) Speaking together several shots. If you would of wives, Maureen Hickey came like to see it, check out our class sans Jim, but I don’t have any idea Facebook page or contact Mel via whether he might have been travelmessage. ing or on TV somewhere. Keith and Class of 1982: Emmitt Heltzel, John Matthews, Bill Jennings and Bill Jennings answered the call Dave Kohler before going to the stadium for the football game. Jeanne hosted a nice gathering after and supplied us with some great the game. Mayforth did an excellent photos from two events he attended recently.

He and Dave Kohler did the “Ride to the I” Oct. 10. Bill loaned him his Low Rider, and they enjoyed great time riding on a beautiful day. As the pictures show, they also saw several other BRs that day, including Emmett and Lynn Heltzel, John Matthews, Keith Jarvis and Bob Louthan. John had been dragged to the game by his daughter and her friends.

Bill also attended the formal internment of Son Le at Arlington National Cemetery Oct. 8. Bill Vickers, Del Erstner, Danny Clymore, Chuck Kause, Dick Moore, and Ozzie Belcher were present and represented our class. Gleb Taran ’79, our rat Band Company executive officer was also at the service with his roommates. Gleb was Son’s dyke. As you may recall, Son died unexpectedly from a heart attack a few months back, and his obituary was in the Review. His sons, Nick and Ian, were excited to meet the class members and wanted Class of 1982: In attendance at the memorial service and internment for Col. Son Le to hear as many stories of their father as they Oct. 7, 2015, were Ozzie Belcher, Dick Moore, Danny Clymore, Chuck Kause, Del Ertsner could tell. While everyone else was local, Del and Bill Jennings, pictured with Nick and Ian Le. flew in from out west to attend the services. He

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Class Notes

Class of 1982: The Horse Honor Guard ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery for Son Le.

Class of 1982: The bugler from Arlington National Cemetery at the interment of Son Le. job heckling the ’82 legacies from the tailgate tent as they passed in review during the Saturday parade. This was difficult to transcribe, but I hope you get the idea that Bob did try to share some details of the activities but failed to site all the parties involved. Never forget the wives.

Scott Crumpler doubled down on what Bob had reported and then at the Jarvis’. (The photos of that party really make me want to travel up the road to experience it myself.) Scott also

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hooked up with Nick Roper and Todd Minnix for their semiannual golf outing recently. (Dan Clymore let work interfere with their leisure activity!) But that tidbit seems to be in every other Review, so probably time to put it to rest! Sorry, I am desperate, Scott. He has also been keeping up with John Boyd as he recovers from post-surgical MRSA issues. He is coming along nicely.

I will briefly mention that two of our BRs had scary health issues during this period.

Todd Minnix was experiencing mini strokes at work, but after some medical procedures, he is apparently all better now. And John Boyd was also having real concerns after numerous surgeries involving his head and spine. The last report is that he doing much better and will be starting a new job as a defense contractor with the FBI in forensics and biometrics.

Rich Mustakos, you deserve this comment.

He was just trying to be a helpful BR responding to my begging for class notes. Rich reported that he hasn’t seen a BR since the 2012 reunion. Has not traveled much; just working. Had a kid start at CMU. (who, name, what and where is CMU?) Oh, and big news: Spent too much time on Facebook. And he knows all the words to several old TV rerun songs.

Finally, the VMI women’s soccer team came to Chattanooga at the end of October for the first round in the Southern Conference tournament. They came to play against the University

of Tennessee – Chattanooga, which was seeded in eighth versus VMI in ninth. My daughter and I attended the game, although it was a “house divided” event, as she is currently attending UTC. There were only two other VMI supporters in the nearly empty stadium, but the lady Keydets appreciated seeing and hearing this old guy waving a VMI flag and cheering them on.

After a full 90 minutes plus double overtime with no scoring, the game was decided in penalty kicks. VMI won! The girls asked to borrow my flag and ran around the field waving it! We stayed after the game and spoke with the coach and players, and I also presented the team with several cases of Little Debbie snacks to see them on the bus ride back to VMI. Now, as I write these notes, they get to return to Birmingham, Alabama, to play the No. 1 seed Samford University in two days.

Well, that is all in the mailbag. As you can tell, we did not hear from many of you, so don’t complain. Please drop me a line, a letter, an email or a postcard! Please keep our BRs with health concerns in your prayers, and I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday season.

Sincerely, Will Council

’83

Hugh Daughtry

Brother Rats, These notes cover the period of mid-August to the first of November and reach you in 2016. The mailbag is a little light, and I appreciate the updates received.

As I finish these notes, I was contacted by Trent Boggs and Steve Amato with the terrible news of the passing of Mark and Kim Sykes’ son, Ben ’13. Ben was studying to be a dentist and was in school in Richmond. At this awful time, Steve and Mary and Danny Chu were immediately with the Sykeses. Please keep them in your prayers.

In August, we heard the news of a deadly bomb blast in Thailand, home of our BR Andy Jones.

Steve Amato reached out quickly to Andy via email, and we were relieved to hear Andy was well, though through several friends and work associates, he was aware of victims injured or killed.

Andy has lived in Thailand for many years but is a fixture at our reunions, regularly winning for

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Keep your eyes peeled for an arcoming the furthest. Looking forward to seeing you at the 35th, Andy. ticle by Lynn Seldon on the tailgating Matriculation day in August brought scene on the Parade Ground. Lynn in another large group of sons of ’83. spotlighted our class for the Morehead Among the latest in the Rat Mass are State University game with great ’83 Derek Patterson’s son, Luke; Brett representation. In addition to the stalAllen’s son, Rob; Chris Hair’s son, warts noted above, Skip Goodwillie, David; Breck Gorman’s son, John; Jim Outland, Steve Simonson, Chris John Sullivan’s son, John; and Jim Hair and Warren Groseclose made Outland’s son, Ben. Early reports are the scene. Looking forward to a great positive with all dads reporting the day article. a success and their sons doing well at Robin and I were able to make the the “I.” Not as much detail from the Samford University game and enmothers, though. joyed Scott, Cal and David’s hospitalThe subject of ’83’s representation ity. Warren and Stoney Preston were in the current Corps got Bill Cornett Class of 1983: At the Rolling Plains Sportsmans Club in Stanley, there, as well. We were able to show and me thinking. By our count, there North Dakota, in October 2015 were, from left, first row, Bill Cor- off the “I” to a couple of Hokie guests nett, Courtney Holdern, Jim Henry, Wilson Enochs ’84 and Scott are currently 11 sons of the Class of Horan. Second row: John Gordon, Breck Gorman, Chris Davidson from Charlotte. The atmosphere they 1983 in the Corps. In addition to those ’84, John Karafa ’84 and Mike Laughon. enjoyed rivaled anything we saw the listed above: Bill, John McDonald, previous evening in Blacksburg. You Scott Belliveau, Warren Groseclose and Mike their chins up. Chris Hair reported it was the first need to get back for a home game.

Laughon all have sons in the Corps. Also, with thing David mentioned when he was able to comGot a great update from Joe “Campi” CampiBen listed above, Jim Outland now has two. By municate back to home. No doubt these random sano. He and his wife, Silvana, were in Cusco, Scott’s count, our class has had at least 25 sons acts teach these young men the power of the Peru. Silvana is a native of Lima. Joe is living in matriculate. Hard to believe a class has ever had brother rat spirit.

Jacksonville, Florida, and is hoping for success in that type of representation in the Corps at any Rock Donahue checked in from Fayetteville, a new job in that area. He is working the network given time.

Georgia, in true military fashion, noting, “Update to include Rear Adm. Jimmie Seeley ’60. Best of Great gesture by John Dodge when dropping by follows. Rock is building from the ground up the luck, Joe! He is still a pilot with the Navy Flying the Institute soon after matriculation. He dropped Georgia Military College’s newest campus. He’s Club at Naval Air Station Jacksonville, and he’s status slips to all the new rats telling them to keep been there since October 2014 staffing the campus become a glider pilot and flies with the North Florand recruiting students. Georgia Military is a two- ida Soaring Society at Herlong Airfield in JAX. Another Eagle Scout has joined the ranks. Dave year junior college with 11 campuses throughout Clarke dropped me a note on Ed Kluckowski’s the state. First term started in August with 11 staff and 300 students. Rock’s two oldest continue to son, James. James earned the coveted Eagle serve in the Army with their spouses and share 11 rank and completed a project highlighted in the combat tours between the four and Rock. Their Winchester, Virginia, news. James is a senior at youngest twin daughters are freshmen at the Servando High School, and his project included GMC Fayetteville campus. Rock and Nancy have a new sign for the Youth Development Center in two grandsons and a granddaughter with another Kernstown. The sign is a large weather-resistant sign made possible by over $1,000 in donations on the way.”

The latest edition of the Flying Squadron is raised by James. Great job, young man!

Dan Martin had a Chris Caudill sighting in generating a lot of excitement. New coach Scott Florida. Dan was able to catch up with Chris and Wachenheim has promised a different brand of football for VMI, and it looks like he’s delivering. his wife, Vickie, in Florida during a recent visit.

A renewal of the “Never say die” spirit is evident Dan reported a fun night with supper and reminiscing in Oldsmar. We also have Chris added to when you watch this team play. Our class’ repthe mail list for your Yahoo group. resentation at home games remains strongly anMark Roltsch has accepted a new position as aschored by stalwarts like Cal Murray, Scott Bellisistant vice president for research at the University veau, Jay Williams and Dave Warriner.

The fact Class of 1983: Dave Warriner celebrated of West Florida in Pensacola, Florida. He moved Oktoberfest while sporting Lederhosen that almost all of VMI’s games are available on during the Parents Weekend tailgate ESPN3 makes it pretty nice for those of us not there just before Thanksgiving. Having worked on before the VMI versus University of Tenable to get to Lexington easily and allows all of us my master’s at UWF while at Eglin, I’m happy to nessee-Chattanooga game Oct. 17, 2015. welcome Mark to the Argonaut family! to see this new brand of VMI football.

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Class Notes One of the highlights of my fall was following times, he needs this: the structure and discipline. young minds to the Institute. Steve Hupp, hailthe planning and execution of a hunting trip by He is, after all, often a reflection of us at the ing from Richmond, is doing the same; brainseveral of our brother rats and a few from ’84. Bill same time in history. Daughters are different. washing young minds to enhance the value of Ty Dawson and R.G. McManus can attest to our diplomas by having them come to VMI. Cornett had given me a heads up some time back of this undertaking, and I was able to swing by that experience. Both have terrific daughters in Steve, whose son is a 1st, saw it his duty to be at Bill’s house the night before departure to share a the Corps. Dawson has been known to drink matriculation this past August with a new group libation with Mike Laughon, Jim Henry and Bill. the Institute Kool-Aid by being a member of the of rats he personally convinced to sign the book.

The next morning, they boarded an airplane to Parents Council. Being on the council is kind of I did say group and meant it. start their trek to North Dakota, meeting up en like being a ranker amongst other parents who Before one football game, I ran into the Cav route with Scott Horan, John Gordon, Breck are like 1st Class privates. I told Kathy we could with Bunny Hewitt ’83 picking up their mornGorman, John Karafa ’84, Wilson Enochs ’84 not join, because I was more inclined, now in ing tailgate chicken from Kenney’s in Lexingadulthood, to step off than bone anyone. and Chris Davidson ’84. ton. The Cav was driving the getaway car in the This August, Demetra, my daughter – the child conspiracy. I saw Barry Coceano at the same With this group, you can imagine the stories.

Scott reported that John Karafa won the “Don’t named after my mother – matriculated. I cried. game, and he is still splitting his time between Shoot the Hen Award,” which I’m sure is quite So far, however, she has thrived. Her grades – northern Virginia and Lexington. an accomplishment, having shot I received an update from John the greatest number of the wrong Karafa. He is president/owner of birds. Bill agreed though he said that Leebcor Services, LLC in Williams“shoot” was the wrong word used by burg, Virginia. His business is doScott. Go figure. In true Horan fashing great in the field of Department ion, he missed his flight in Chicago, of Defense construction projects but having an American Airline emthroughout the mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Projects can be found ployee along with Gordo payed off. from Pensacola to Norfolk. John’s John was able to get Scott rerouted via daughter, Emily, has been on the Dallas with a helpful pickup in Bisdean’s list her entire college career marck from Brother Rat Todd Tudor. at the University of South Carolina Todd was able to visit with the hunting and interned in the corporate planparty and share a few cold ones and some stories. The last day shooting ning department this past summer was hot and heavy with ammunition for 10 weeks in New York City at Class of 1984: Barry and the Cav with Cadet Daniel Bull ’16 and his dwindling. Per Scott, ’84 had only one the corporate headquarters of Ann parents at the 2015 Scholarship Awards Banquet. Daniel, a memjob to do – bring extra ammo – and ber of the lacrosse team, received The Class of ’84 Scholarship. Taylor/Loft. John and his wife, they scored an epic fail. Some things Kimberly, take care of her mother. never change. Last word from Scott was for me again, so far – are at levels I only dreamed of God Bless you both for doing so. John returned to inquire of Bill what was running around and reaching, and her athleticism on the VMI womfrom a pheasant/duck hunt in North Dakota through his legs in the corn fields. Should be a en’s soccer team won a Southern Conference with BRs Chris Davidson and Wilson Enochs. good story for you to tell at our next boy’s night tournament match this year. I thought the exAlso on the trip were Scott Horan, Jim Henry, out with Ivan Marcotte. perience would be different from her brother’s, Breck Gorman, Mike Laughon, John Gordon That concludes these updates. I encourage you a 1st Class cadet. It is not. She loves her brother and Bill Cornett, all Class of ’83. Being born to remember VMI in your giving, and when possiand raised in Norfolk, I don’t know hunting. I rats. She figured all of us out so quickly. can’t tell you if they played teams or who won.

Speaking of love, I saw Tom Anthony at a reble, get back to Lexington. You will be impressed cent home football game and believe no brother But I bet the birds lost. John serves as president with what you see. rat so loves us all as Tom. He had a great time of the Williamsburg Alumni Chapter. They just That is all. inquiring of Demetra and her BRs about their had their fall dinner with special guest Brig.

Andy Protogyrou experiences while at the same time reminding Gen. Jeff Smith ’79, VMI dean of the faculty us of our own. With Tom was Tom Carboni, and deputy superintendent for academics. His chapter will soon host a golf outing and a dinner who traveled south to enjoy the Cav’s tent hosthis spring to support VMI scholarships. John pitality. Carboni looked great and is an executive with Amtrak. Also hanging out with us was wants all to know they are invited. John, make R.G. McManus and Tom Gillespie. R.G. is the sure you post it on our Facebook page so we can A daughter matriculating to VMI is far differmake it a mini reunion. ent from a son. As fathers, our sons enter the Buzzy Snyder of Randolph Macon Academy, a Scott Lipscomb lives in Manakin Sabot well-known military high school, in Front RoyInstitute with us expecting to relive much of what we went through ourselves. We think, at al, Virginia. He can be accredited with directing just west of Richmond. He and Wendy just

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Class Notes celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary.

Congratulations! Scott’s oldest, Travis, plays football at Benedictine High School, and his youngest, Garrett, attends Blessed Sacrament, where Wendy is a teacher. He keeps them busy horseback riding. Travis wears the old Benedictine football jersey of Bruce Kitchen ’81, No. 45, and ran into him at the opening game this year. Scott sees Hank Selman in all of his sartorial splendor at the games, as one of Hank’s children graduated and another is still there.

Lee Wimbish was at a game recently against Bishop Ireton, where his daughter attends. Scott ran into Coach Throckmorton at Travis’ season opener telling Scott he was retired and living in Saluda, Virginia, and he updated Scott that Coach Harmison is living in Winchester, Virginia. Scott went on to note history will remain intact, as our football team is much improved, but unfortunately, we will have to wait until next year for a winning season.

Alan Meade sent greetings and is living in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Alan is a network engineer with Riverside Health System.

Frank Kollmansperger recently met up with William Tilling and Hunter Elliott for breakfast. He also ran into Malachi Mills. Frank’s youngest plays JV football and is coached by Tom Slater’s son. Frank is always good for updates, and I cannot thank him enough.

Chris Caplice Facebooked in from New England. Chris and Kristen spent a beautiful fall day with Clay and Andrea Goss at the Goss estate in the New Hampshire highlands. They spent time drinking freshly pressed apple cider from the estate orchard and watched Clay’s 150-pound Newfie lap dog, Willie, play with Chris’ 70 pound Golden Retrievers. Chris, you did write “lap dog.” Chris is now paying a vet for therapy to the goldens, but it sounds like he could use the therapy himself. Clay has put his civil engineering skills to use renovating all of the estate structures. Of course, Clay and Kristen have Bernie Saunders signs all over the property, tending to obstruct the home. Not really, Chris says they are all for Donald Trump!

Now that I know the truth, maybe there was too much vodka in that cider. Clay, Frank wants to know how to score an invitation.

Please make sure to keep me in the loop through texts, phone calls, Facebook messages or emails on all that everyone is doing.

Yours in the spirit!

2016-Issue 1

’85

Matt Daniel

Greetings, Gentlemen.

Nov. 1, 2015.

Put this in the “trying to innovate” category of class agent-dom. This is an effort to make the old, beloved Dartboard a key component of the ’85 notes. Let’s see how it goes, you tell me.

Dartboard ’85 Which of these “Stump the Chump” stories is true?

A) While roaming the streets of the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, your agent ran across a street band which featured Bob Ellis on bass and Fred Miller on vocals and tambourine. Bob is sporting dreadlocks with a bandanna do-rag. Fred’s got a tattoo on his bicep, and it reads: “Get out, Rat!” The band calls itself The Weird Harolds. They play an odd infusion of Johnny Cash with Ziggy Marley and vice versa.

B) Bob Ivy is moving back to the Washington, D.C., area after a few years in Beijing working for the Department of Energy. Bob is now a senior adviser, international affairs, DOE. So, Bob, is the Kung Pao chicken better here or there? Settle this argument for Steve Hagan and Jesse Waltz, please. Welcome back.

C) I received a tipper from our own Daryl

Horne that he was on a phone call with the human resources department at Apple Inc., who called to ask him if he knew a guy named Gary Klein. They called for a character reference because of BR Klein’s response to one of their interview questions: “What would you say is your best college accomplishment? And who else was involved?” Gary mentioned the famed egg-drop contest where he teamed up with BR Horne to win it all. They were validating the story.

D) Steve “PorchBoy” Medeiros landed a new job as principle logistician, The Columbia Group.

He left Wyle in this move to the Columbia Group.

Steve, do they still sell eight CDs for a penny at Columbia?

E) Doug McGowen sends that Art Massaro is the adult supervisor of the Canfield Players (CHS drama club) as a civic duty and that they are putting on the play, “Mary Poppins,” this fall. Please call (330) 702-7128 for ticket information.

F) Mike Jernigan is running for president of the Richmond Road Runners Club. He’d appreciate your support. Oh, yeah – BR Don Graham gave me that tip.

G) Congratulate Karl Marks’ new position as director, information technology for CalAtlantic Homes (Phoenix, Arizona). This is a merger of his former company (Ryland) with Standard Pacific.

H) Dave Brennan and Greg Renner both competed in the U.S. Marine Corps Marathon. Neither won. Well done though, gents.

Beyond the Dartboard, here is some news:

Class of 1985: Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Jake Spivey with brother rats at his retirement ceremony held at the VMI Alumni Hall of Honor at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, Virginia. Pictured were, from left, Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins, Woo Kirtley, Davis Estes, Ralph Tremaglio, Meade King, Rev. Tim Martin, Capt. Jake Spivey, Col. J.J. Wranek, Bill Weiners, Tom Rahe, Joe Irby, Mark Williams and John Jordan. Present but not pictured was Darren Sawyer. (Agent note: This photo was inadvertently not included in the previous issue of the Alumni Review. Error humbly assigned to the ’85 class agent, and apologies distributed.)

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Class Notes East Coast, so I am to understand. Not sure when Sylvester “Sly” Davis’ sons have been acknowlClint Hubbard and not sure where (northern Virginia, perhaps?) edged for their athletic prowess (no surprise, of course). Ryan (youngest) was just recognized to but your agent will be sure to advise when the news firms up. the 2015 Best Players in Babe Ruth Baseball.

Please: A call for prayers for our BRs and their Sly and I shared an email or two about his boys loved ones who are in need, as some of our and the championship series that they were engaged in this fall. I discovered that these kids are friends and stoopmates are in physical and emoGreetings Brother Rats, Co-Matriculants and carnivores, just like their old man. Here is what tional pain. Remember them when you find yourCo-Urinal Users!

These notes are being penned in late OctoSly offered: “Matt, thanks for hitting me up. We self wishing for good things for good people. ber for an early November submismade it to the championship game sion date. Football season is in full but lost in extra innings 3-2. The boys swing; the Keydets have a new head really played hard. Below are pictures of my middle (Jairus) and youngcoach and are making a better showing on the gridiron this year. It is just est (Ryan) sons. They are part of a my opinion, and with no disrespect Go Fund Me effort. The GFM is for both of them. In addition to playing intended for any previous coaches, for their school, they also play for the but Coach Scott Wachenheim is cut same travel baseball program called from a different bolt of cloth than “TCP” (The Complete Player). This any coach we’ve had in my lifetime. is the first year for the younger team The Keydets have been competitive (13U). We are trying to raise funds in every game this year; they’ve won needed to play this upcoming spring a couple and dropped a couple they and summer. They have been invited Class of 1985: Class of ’85 athletic legacies: VMI track and field should have won and just plain gotto some seriously elite tournaments.

Hall of Famer Sylvester “Sly” Davis ’85 with sons Jairus and ten beat a few times. But overall, “Our program is a nonprofit 501 (c), Ryan, who both play baseball for him at The Complete Player in they are competitive and are playthe Washington, D.C., area. Here they are on the big board at ing until the final whistle. Don’t just therefore all funds are tax deductible.

Globe Life Park in Arlington, Texas. “We had a great time. I am I will forward the app for GFM with so proud of my boys,” remarked Sly. take my word for it, check ’em out the tax id number 501 (c) 3 Tax ID: and see for yourself.

474790279. Guys can also, if they chose to, write Check out the photo of Jake Spivey’s retirement Even if you can’t make it to Lexington for a a check made payable to TCP and mail directly to from the Navy. Somehow (likely your agent’s game, the new athletic director, Dave Diles, has me.” (Agent note: GFM is nice, but they do take a fault) the photo did not make it into the previous inked a deal with ESPN whereby the Keydet portion of what is being donated.) games are available on ESPN 3; you can watch issue of the Alumni Review.

BR Sly added: “We have been very busy this it on your computer or tablet from the comfort This is all I have this quarter gents. past summer. I also coached my older son’s team, Oh, yeah, and by the way: Please donate what of your own easy chair with your favorite bevwhich won the Mid-Atlantic Region RBI Chamyou can to the cause, gents. Other classes are erages. And even if you miss them live, you can pionship and was awarded a trip to Dallas, Texas, showing us up! watch it on replay. What’s not to like?

True or false? to play in the RBI World Series. That was fun.

Everyone is evidently busy doing something, A) I’m not telling. I’ll never tell. as the reach-outs to your class agent this quarDuring that same week, I missed watching my B) True: You bet! ter have been minimal. Nevertheless, we’ll youngest son, Ryan, who was selected by MLB C) Not true; who would ever question the charthrow something together here. The greatest RBI program to the USA 13U Elite Championship Tournament as a catcher and pitcher. From acter of Cadet Klein? oracle of BR updates is from the miracle of the there, he had a chance to try out for the 13U NaD) Not false.

21st century social media – Facebook.

The first item is that Eddie Talbott continues tional USA Team. We are waiting to hear back E) False. Artie actually has the lead role. He to smoke the over-50 crowd in running races from them.” Proud dad, Sly, and proud BRs as plays a mean Dick Van Dyke. and Ironman competitions all over Kentucky F) False. Don won’t speak to me. well! Go, Davis men, go! and southwest Virginia. Between Eddie winG) True. Karl is moving on up.

Our Class of 1985 Athletic Scholarship was H) Not true. I mean, true: They both ran the ning races and Larry Watson saving lives and awarded to 2nd Class Cadet Dalton Henderson event, but also false; I think Greg won the 50 just being lifeguard-like studly with the Virgin’17 (wrestler). A couple of our BRs were instruia Beach Lifesaving Crew, they are upholding mental in making this happen for Dalton. They something bald-headed road racer division. Nicethe honor of the class. Way to go, guys; the rest ly done, men. know who they are, but I won’t call them out directly at this point. Gentlemen, thank you for beRah Virginia Mil, gents, parents, wives, kids, of us are cheering you on and raising a cold ing great leaders in our class. one in your honor. friends and curious readers.

Scottie and Eileen Pearson are moving to the Unless it is Jeff Smiley. He is raising a few in Matt Daniel

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Class Notes your honor. BR Smiley is busy every weekend a near-Elvis sighting. Someone looked down in traveling often on business to China. He’s contaking his ring figure date (and bride!) to a new the stands and said, “Hey, I think I see John nected to a few BRs, but I’m sure would like watering hole to sample the best of Tidewater Hart down there.” We all said it couldn’t be, to connect with more of us. BR Huff is a good and central Virginia’s microbreweries. At least as the opponent was Morehead State Univer- man, and our loss was surely West Point’s gain. we always know where to find him.

Big news for Bob Rainer this quarter is that sity, not James Madison University. It turns out Speaking of new watering holes, I had a meshe got married in October to his main squeeze, that JMU had an away game, and it was in fact, sage from the inspector general at VMI who one, each, Hart, J.S. We welcomed him back to Kirby. The two of them have been an item for says he is open to receiving BR visits in his new post, and a group of us rallied for a team photo several years now, and Kirby is a wonderful lady. Their wedding was held at a bed-andabode in Lexington. I’m speaking, of course, at halftime.

History was also made at that game, as those breakfast in Glen Allen, Virginia. The guests of Jeff Boobar, who is now an official townie.

Jeff is jumping right into the life in Lex-Vegas present included Stew Barnes, Alvin Comer, included the following BRs and their wives: Steve Hall, John Hart, Clint Hubbard, Jamie Paul Burch, Tony Hirtz, Clint Hubbard, Cy and says he has the welcome mat out for any Inman, Todd McCullough, David Moore, Kump, Jon Moody, Jeff Morgan and Roy BRs passing through town.

Woolwine, as well as Larry and From Facebook comes the news Sandy Ashworth, parents of BR that Alan Leatherwood’s daughter Chris Ashworth. made the dean’s list at “Hokie, HokJust under the wire for submission, ie, Hokie, High – Tech, Tech, VPI.” I got a text from Stewart “the Good Well done to the young lady – I don’t Life” Barnes who was busy yukking know about y’all, but it’s the only it up at Hampden-Sydney College to time I’ve ever heard the name ‘Leaththe tunes of Speidel, Goodrich and erwood’ and the words “dean’s list” Goggin. SGG was playing a return used together in the same sentence. engagement at HSC, mostly for the As Dave Grimm might say, “I’m just parents. Stew’s son goes to HSC, sayin’...” Big Al is still alive and well as do the sons of George Sheild in Dillwyn, Virginia, so far was we and Tim Keilty. While on the HSC know. grounds, Stew ran into and snapped Also from Facebook is the most a photo of one, each, Howard, mobile BR, Jim Jenkins. It is pretty P.R. Like we’d need photographic well-documented in these pages how Jenkins was MIA for years. Class of 1986: Mark Thompson, right, and Steve Medeiros ’85. proof to believe Phil Howard was at Now that his kids are grown and he Steve was Mark’s cadre corporal, and they both became Marines. Hampden-Sydney for the weekend.

I bet they missed him at the Univerand Sue are empty nesters, they’ve made it real empty, because they have flown Dave Reynolds and Jim Taggart. Read the sity of Virginia game. the coop, too. Every week, BR Jenkins is in a list again and notice it does not include Robert Not to be out-done with Hampden-Sydney, different venue and a different hotel drinking Nussey. It was the first time in history I’ve ever Jim Agostini’s son is a rat at Washington and a different drink, although with the same girl. seen BR Reynolds at VMI without BR Nussey Lee University, so Jim gets a two-fer when he What a great catch she is; it is little wonder that – or vice versa. Robert answered his AWOL goes to visit his son. Young Thomas Agostini Jim keeps trying to keep her liquored up and special with a plea of, “Correct, but wish to is quite the swimming stud for the minks. On disoriented with all the travel, lest she realize quibble,” that he thought it might rain and did the weekend of BR Rainer’s wedding, Jim that her children are gone, and she is stuck with not want to risk having to sit out in the rain and and Lindsay Agostini were in the Richmond him! watch the Keydets get beaten, so he played golf area for a swim meet, and most of the attendActually, the most mobile BR might actually instead. You’re all on notice from here on out – ees of the Rainer wedding crowd were able to be Thuan Tran. He seems to be working part- since John Hart is now a judge, we can get him rendezvous for a nightcap with the Agostinis; time and traveling almost full-time. He and to issue a subpoena for you – and Todd Mcwe even managed to stick Jim with the bar tab. his bride made the trek across Tennessee in Cullough’s son is a deputy sheriff, so he can Thanks, BR Agostini. the fall and hit the tourist hot spots to include serve the papers on you.

Well, that’s about it. This issue should hit your the Grand Ol’ Opry as well as Graceland. BR Another Facebook update is that Scott Huff mailbox in the heart of the Dark Ages. When Tran did not report seeing Glen Ralston or Jim is alive and well. Y’all may remember Scott the days are short and the nights are cold, take a Radle at Graceland but hey, you never know who was with us for two years and then transminute and shoot me an update or reach out to ... Elvis was nowhere near as elusive as those ferred to the Cub Scout camp on the Hudson a BR. It seems these notes are getting shorter, so two guys.

River. BR Huff finished at West Point, “did his I definitely need some new material.

Speaking of Elvis, there were quite a few BRs Happy New Year and hope to see you at the Army time for doing that crime” and is now at a certain Keydet football game this fall and a civilian living in Knoxville, Tennessee, but 30th Reunion in the spring.

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Class Notes

’87

Gerry Tertychny

Brother Rats, Paul Munson emailed me from North Carolina, where he and Anne-Marie have been living for many years. Paul has been serving there as a special agent in the North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation’s Diversion and Environmental Crimes Unit. Recently, Paul was involved in two significant operations designed to get illegal prescription drugs off the streets.

Last fall, Paul’s organization teamed with Safe Kids North Carolina, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and state and local law enforcement agencies to collect and properly destroy nearly 7.4 million doses of expired or unused medicine pills. This effort goes a long way toward preventing drug abuse, keeping harmful drugs out of the reach of children and keeping dangerous chemicals from ending up in the water supply.

A few months ago, Paul was involved in a long-term undercover operation focusing on the illegal sale of prescription drugs across several North Carolina counties. Again, the DECU worked with several county sheriff offices and other state and local law enforcement agencies to arrest over 20 people suspected of dealing in illegal prescription drugs. As Paul said, dealers and buyers of illegal drugs do not

necessarily fit the typical image we may have of drug abusers and are often neighbors and people we come in contact with everyday, with both blue and white collar backgrounds. As he related, “The abuse of prescription drugs affects people from all socioeconomic levels.”

North Carolina alone suffered over 1,000 deaths last year due to overdoses from prescription drugs.

We often forget our brother rats who work every day in law enforcement and emergency response at the local, state and federal levels.

In addition to Paul, Drew Campi and Bill Zins are law enforcement officers, and Paul Duray works in emergency response in Maryland.

Unfortunately, your work often goes unnoticed and unappreciated, so thank you for your efforts on our behalf.

I trust everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday season and New Year and that you were able to spend some time with family and friends. Best wishes for 2016!

In the spirit, Gerry

’88

Sam Tate

Brother Rats, Happy New Year! It is awesome that we have so many legacy cadets at VMI all at the same time. It is also great that several of them have

Class of 1988: At the VMI ’88 mini reunion at the VMI versus the University of Richmond game were Walt Coleman, Mike Wood, Ed Wetherell, Hugh McGloin, Col. Harbach, Mike Bryant, Chris Long, Sam Tate, Kristen Stone, Lew Sigmon, Charles and Michelle Nelson, Joe Swider, Adam Volant, John Keppeler, Steve and Tracy Neary, Dan Riley, Thorpe Whitehead, Amy Tate and Suzanne Starling.

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Class of 1988: Greg was surprised by his roommates and their spouses for his recent birthday party. Pictured were, from left, Rich and Kristin Stone, Greg Gooch and Gerald Korblick, and Greg and Stephanie Rollins. gotten to know each other. In the fall, Aiden McGraw ’17 performed officer of the day duties and gathered the majority of them together.

The picture is included as a part of these notes.

Joe King asks anyone in Lexington to “please drop by to see my son, Danny ’17. Just tell him his dad wanted you to say hi, congratulate him

Class of 1988: From left, Jim, Ryan and Kim Tuemler at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point football game.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes recent outing was attended by Ed in advance on Ring Figure and reWetherell, Mike Owen, Andy mind him to be a gentleman!” Joe McAllister, Jim Ring, Hugh Brien, is trying to find an assignment back Sam Tate, Jim Florio, Bill Beyer, in Washington, D.C. (while carefully Lew Sigmon and Guy Gormley. avoiding the Pentagon). His daughSpecial guest appearances were ter started college at James Madison made by Bill Cronenberg, home on University. Having two children in leave from Estonia, and Ed Page, Virginia in school has made him who drove down for the day from eager to get back to the States to get Pittsburgh. some in-state tuition rates!

Congratulations to several BRs for Many BRs were able to spend quallife achievements. Mike Vitulano ity time with each other this past sumrecently found out that “I’ve been mer and fall, along with their spouses. selected as teacher of the year at Rich and Kristin Stone hosted Greg Secaucus High School. I am one of and Stephanie Rollins and Sam and four teachers in the school district to Amy Tate for a relaxing week at the receive this award this year.” beach in Oak Island, North CaroCongratulations to Trace West lina. Sam Tate, Adam Volant, Ted who competed in the Spartan World Wagner and Kim Sloane organized a Championship competition on Mount mini class reunion at the VMI versus Olympus, California. Trace slogged the University of Richmond football through a 15-mile mud and barbed game in September. Twenty-seven showed up, including spouses and Class of 1988: Training NROTC/Marines in firearms were, from left, wired obstacle course at 9,000 feet to Chris Starling, Mike McGraw, John Keppeler, Derek McFarland, finish fifth in his age group and 124th potential legacies. Greg Gooch and Todd Friewald, John Ryman and Jim Florio. overall. In the meantime, during a Gerald Korblick celebrated Gooch-arecent TDY in Vicenza, Italy, Mike Palooza this year for Greg’s birthday.

McGraw took the opportunity over The surprise was that they were joined the weekend to run the path up Mount

by Greg’s VMI roommates and their Lumignano. Rah Virginia Mil. spouses, Rich and Kristin Stone and Brother rats, it was a pleasure comGreg and Stephanie Rollins.

Several brother rats sent email uppiling these notes. I hope they inspire you to keep in touch with each other. dates and pictures. (If not posted here, they did show up on Facebook.) CurKeep sending me your notes and recollections so that we can keep the ran Bowen wrote that the Bowen famspirit of ’88 alive. As always, you can ily was able to meet Sen. Ted Cruz reach me at the following: at a political rally in August. Curran VMI 88 Facebook page (join 255 shared his pictures of Kirby and Sen. Class of 1988: VMI ’88 legacy Keydets, from left: 4th Class Cadets BRs and family and growing) Cruz on Facebook.

Riley Neary, Ceci Keppeler and Joshua Riley. Upperclassmen: 571-659-0904 (home) Jim Tuemler’s son, Ryan, is a plebe Ryan Friewald, Danny King, Rob Starling, Aiden McGraw, Jake 703-772-0854 (cell) at the U.S. Military Academy at West Freiwald and Mason Turlington. Not pictured: Bubba Keppeler and Sam Coleman. samtate88va@gmail.com Point, and just like his dad, he is in Company E. Jim and Kim have been able to visit – no leave from class authorized.”

Steve Chiles Ryan several times this fall.

Dave Pitts expressed the importance of keepFrank Musarra and Rob Gowan were able to ing in touch with BRs very well. “One of the link up Texas style at Floore’s Country Store. things I am most guilty of is not staying in Brian Hatheway recently emailed, “I’m back touch with folks. This summer I was able to stateside with my family for a few months of catch up with two of our BRs. It was great to David A. Martin Russian language top-off training in the D.C. see them. Thank you, Neal Culiner and Victor area, then off to Dushanbe for a couple of Sredl, for spending the time together.” years starting next summer. Maybe I can make The monthly northern Virginia luncheon it to one of those ’88 lunches you guys do. Mihosted by John Keppeler continues to draw chael McGraw was telling me about them. I’m a great sample of the usual suspects and surHi, everyone. I write as Austin weather seems in class weekdays, so it’s very hard to get away prise appearances by out-of-towners. The most

’89

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Class Notes Jim and family relocated to Loudoun County to be throwing everything but the kitchen sink at wife, Therin, were able to get out to Washington from Augusta, Georgia, a couple of years ago us. Strange weather across the U.S. this year. I for the festivities and some sightseeing, as well.

Paul had the opportunity to return the favor and are enjoying being back in Virginia. His oldhope you and yours have escaped relatively unscathed. The Chiles family has been in Texas for to Tom when Tom had his own change of com- est son, Alec, is in his third year at “Hokie High,” a year now, and we’re making the adjustment just mand. He took over as the 2/224th Aviation Bat- and his youngest is a junior in actual high school. fine. My son, Connor Chiles ’17, decided to take talion commander in the Virginia Army National Both are doing well and are allowing Ruth and leave from VMI after his 4th Class year to join Guard. “Club 70” got to connect with several him to get a preview of what an empty nest looks the U.S. Marine Corps. He just completed recruit VMI folks, friends and family there, including like. Jim said, “The best thing about being back training at Parris Island in September is being able to reconnect with friends with some of the highest marks in his and family and go to the occasional battalion. Dan Fitzgerald and I have VMI football game, like last weekend had a heck of a time getting together, where Tom and I tested our tailgating but I know he and Tina are settling skills.” Jim, thanks for the great upinto their new home still very close to date, and welcome back to Virginia! their old homestead in San Antonio.

Pete Lampman shared that he’s In other news, Jay Lawson and teaching English at Arcadia in AcJohn Fisher have been elected to dicomack County, Virginia. He is, not surprisingly, the offensive line coach rectorships of the Piedmont Triad and has also just been named the head Alumni Chapter. I smell nothing but wrestling coach. The two youngest in trouble for the future of that chapter Pete’s brood, Sierra and Savana, are with ’89 carrying the guide-on! seniors and sophomores respectively Speaking of leadership positions, at Lee-Davis High School in MechanJim Masella writes that “Club 70” has had quite a bit going on this year. icsville, Virginia. Pete’s oldest daughPaul Mele moved from command of ter, Summer Harris, and her husband the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade will officially make Pete a grandpa in Command in Washington state to February. Is this our first grandparent take the chief of staff role with the in ’89? Are we really at this point? Say 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, it ain’t so! Congrats on the pending Texas. No doubt, Paul has had to Class of 1989: Present at the change of command ceremony for change in status, Pete!

Tom Hernandez, 2/224th Aviation Battalion Virginia Army National make some adjustments to the central Guard, were, from left, Dave Clement, Mr. Bob Lowerre, Tom Robert Lucas reported that he’s Texas summers – we had over 100 Hernandez, Jim Masella and Paul Mele. living in Dayton, Ohio, working for consecutive days with highs above 90 Crown Cork and Seal as a plant manthis year. The silver lining sounds like Paul and BRs Dave Clement, who is a Navy captain sta- ager. He still serves as a colonel in the Marine Julie will be close to Julie’s folks for the first time tioned in Norfolk; Gary Bissell; and their own Reserve at Quantico. He mentioned running into in a long time. Bonus: Tom Hernandez and his Club 70 rat, Lt. Col. Carl Engstrom ’92, who is BRs Harlan Carvey, Jon Davis and Rob Kolb on active duty at the National Guard Bureau in while in Quantico this past August.

Derek Harris and his wife, Patti, renewed their Arlington. Tom still has his day job as a Navy civilian in Norfolk, and as Jim reports, has a few vows for their 25th wedding anniversary in Sepmore gray hairs. tember. They did it right by going back to the Jim also reported from his own homefront that scene of the crime at J.M. Hall. Congrats to the he just finished up an active duty tour with the two of you!

Virginia Army National Guard as the officer in Bob Spieldenner has made in back to Richcharge of a cyberspace operations team attached mond after a brief stint in Blacksburg. He is to U.S. Army Cyber Command. During the tour, a communications manager for the Federal he got to reconnect with a few BRs roaming the Reserve Bank in Richmond. Bob shared that halls of the Pentagon, including Al Versoza, he now wishes he’d stayed awake during Dr. Winton Smith and John Piedmont. He also ran Chang’s econ 101 class! into Todd Patnesky who was at NGB but has Congrats to Derek McCown and his new bride, since moved on to Colorado Springs. Jim is Dr. Anuradha Naidu (Mary Baldwin ’93), who now back in the civilian world as a cyber secu- were married June 7, 2015, in Richmond. They Class of 1989: Mr. and Mrs. Derek and Patricia Harris renewed their wedding rity consultant and is still in the guard part time are expecting their first addition in February, vows at J.M. Hall. with a provisional appointment to our beloved working for Col. Adam Volant ’88.

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VMI Alumni Review

Present at the reunion were: Thomas C. Agostini, Brian N. Albro, David K. Amsden, Samuel G. Anderson III, William T. Arnold, Eliot F. Assimakopoulos, William H. Ator, John A. Aydlette, Thomas E. Bailey, Anthony L. Baker, Christopher B. Barker, Christopher T. Blekicki, Silviu F. Bora, Timothy G. Bosetti, Brian D. Burchette, John T. Burleson, Gordon B. Byrne, John B. Cabell, John D. Caine, Michael L. Camp, Eric B. Carpenter, Leonard H. Carson, Sean W. Carty, Robert L. Chenery II, Robert E. Clark, Finnie D. Coleman, Andrew M. Conville, James M. Cox, Charles W. Crane Jr., Jeffrey H. Crist, Steven D. Crone, Mark S. Cunningham, David L. Darden, Mark W. Dick, Glenn K. Dickenson, Douglas M. Dillon, Christopher G. Dixon, James A. Dufford, Richard A. Duke, Dennis V. Dupras, Timothy K. Edwards, Charles E. Ellis, Edward A. England, Taylor B. Farmer, Michael E. Faunce, Timothy S. Feagans, Michael L. Ferguson II, Carlos A. Fernandes, Stephen P. Fitton, Dennis G. Fogler Jr., Charles E. Garbett Jr., Raynor A. Garey, William P. Gaspar, John P. Gottwald, Robert J. Gudz, John K. Hahn, Kevin P. Handford, Douglas G. Harper, Paul B. Hartigan, John B. Haslam, Gregory P. Hatchett, Lawrence B. Havird, Quill O. Healey II, James M. Hennigan, Marvin M. Herbaugh, Stefan Herzog Jr., Paul W. Holland, James M. Hubbard, Christopher B. Huff, John P. Hunter, James A. Hynes, Michael A. Inteso, Todd J. Jacobs, Barry R. Johnson, Arturo W. Johnson, Harold L. Jones Jr., Jefferson L. Kaster, David A. Kaulfers, Michael B. Kemp, Terrence W. Kerner, Ricky A. Kimmel, John G. King, Paul Kricorian, John P. Lanzillotta, Christian R. Larlee, Steven R. Linder, Calvin A. Lloyd III, Arthur V. Loving III, Travis L. Mabrey, William A. Madison, James A. Manning, Michael A. Manning, Erroll D. Martin, Pablo A. Martinez, Andrew H. McCaig, Christopher S. McConnell, Rory B. McCormack, David D. McGraw, Timothy J. McLaughlin, Mark W. McSwain, C. Frederick Minnigerode, Michael W. Morelock, Dominick M. Mullori Jr., Kelly G. Musick, Richard L. Neff II, Patrick O. O’Leary, Philip R. Oviatt, Jeffery E. Paul, R. Daren Payne, Garrett C. Peck, Robert M. Pedigo, Michael B. Pilley, Joseph E. Pittman, Charles F. Plageman, Karl R. Powers, Thomas A. Pugh, Minter B. Ralston IV, David B. Ratliff, Larry G. Riddick Jr., Donald C. Roberts, Kenneth C. Robinson, Brian K. Sadler, Gregory M. Sandway, Andrew L. Schaaf, Christopher W. Schinstock, August F. Schrichte, Matthew J. Schwarzmann, James C. Setze, Charles A. Sewell, Hunter E. Shirey, Charles S. Smith, Douglas C. Spitz, James B. Steverson, Samuel N. Stocks, Mitchell G. Stockwell, Michael H. Swanson, Paul K. Tallat-Kelpsa, Thomas F. Talley, Brian D. Tate, Garrett S. Thompson, Glenn A. Thompson, Richard C. Treanor, William C. Tremaglio, Richard H. Trumbo, Peter A. Tunnard, John P. Washington, Christopher J. Watson, David S. West, Neil D. Whitmore, Christopher J. Whittaker, John A. Whittington, Peter L. Wick Jr., A. Damon Williams, Stephen T. Wray, Stephen M. Yarbrough and Antonio C. Zang.

Class Notes

25th Reunion – Sept. 11-12, 2015

The Class of 1990

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Class Notes institution already in the works. Congrats!

Nat knocked the rust off his keyboard and provided a great update about some of his travels of late. He got to spend the weekend with John Piedmont at his home in Leesburg, Virginia. His house is right on the Washington & Old Dominion Trail. It makes for a great bike ride, and they got out Saturday and Sunday. John treated Lori and Nat to a wonderful meal Saturday night with all local ingredients. The venison meat traveled the farthest, as it came from Clarke County.

(John’s hunt from last year.) John is still working at the Pentagon as a civilian and regularly runs into BRs in the halls.

Sadly, John and I had reunited during the funeral of Molly Malloy, younger sister of Marty Malloy. Molly attended Southern Sem while we were cadets and was a great breath of fresh air for us during our cadetship. She died too young and will be missed by many. Marty and Amy Malloy are doing well in St. Louis while Marty is commanding Coast Guard sector St. Louis.

Lori and Nat had dinner with Steve and Amy Stafford recently. They found a restaurant that is halfway between their homes and try to link up a couple of times a year. Steve sold his engineering practice and his home this year. An alum bought the house and was happy that it was built by a VMI engineer. Steve is now working at the College of William & Mary. He is doing construction supervision and enjoying the life of a state

Class of 1989: Derek McCown and Dr. Anuradha Naidu were married June 7, 2015.

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employee. According to Mitch Fridley and Gary Bissell, staff life is easier at a civilian college than a military one! That last statement is not certified.

Nat lucked out and got to spend some time with Eric and Meg Buchanan this month. He was near Chattanooga doing some training, so he planned on spending the night with them. They hadn’t really nailed down the details, but were able to finally connect at Eric’s company outing at the bowling alley! Nat got to join in and was on the winning team. Nat sang Chattanooga’s praises and ended up having a great time catching up with Eric and Meg. Nat has been busy and has missed the last couple of Richmond breakfast meetings. Ned Cox continues to do a great job of reminding everyone each week. Nat strongly suggests to everyone that you consider coming out for the Richmond breakfasts. You can ping him or Ned for details – the class Facebook page is always a resource, too! It’s a great way to get together and remember good times with good friends.

Thanks to everyone for all the updates. Dave Martin and I really appreciate getting all the news and sharing with everyone. We always have the Facebook page, but finding the updates in the Alumni Review just feels right. A little “analog” never hurt anyone!

’90

Robert Clark

Brother Rats, As I write these class notes, I do so still reflecting on the incredible time we all had at our 25th Reunion. I’m so pleased to have received so much positive feedback in Lexington, as well as the emails and calls since. While I think we all found the reunion entertaining and fun, we also found it invigorating and reaffirming in that we could all feel and sense immediately that indescribable bond that joins us as VMI men and brother rats.

For those of you who could not make it, we missed you. Know that you were thought of, included in our stories and toasted (and roasted) in our reflections on our time at the Institute.

We hope you are able to join us for the next one!

We had a tremendous turnout. Two hundred twenty brother rats returned, and more than 300 total BRs and family members attended. This is largest reunion to date for sure, and I’m hopeful

we can reach that level for our 30th. For many, this was their first reunion and return to Lexington since graduating from VMI, which was great to see.

We all owe Hunter Trumbo an enormous amount of gratitude and thanks. He led our 25th Reunion Fundraising Committee, which ultimately raised $1,077,119.90! Importantly, our class performed extremely well on securing cash contributions that the Institute can use now versus long-term contributions. We had a class participation rate of 58 percent. And we thank his wife, Stacy, for lending him to us yet again to lead such an important effort.

A special thanks to the Fundraising Committee: Andy England, Barry Johnson, Carlos Fernandes, Charles Plageman, Daren Payne, Doug Harper, Fred Minnigerode, Glenn Thompson, Greg Hatchett, James Hennigen, Jim Cox, John Hahn, John Lanzillotta, Mark Cunningham, Matt Hemenez, Neil Whitmore, Sam Stocks, Terrence Kerner and Todd Jacobs.

I want to also thank the core volunteers who helped me with their time and sweat to help pull this off: Steve Linder, Joe Pitman, Chris and Kathy Larlee, John Lanzillotta, and Jim and Kim Hynes. A special thanks goes to Ken Robinson for organizing the golf outing at Lexington Golf & Country Club.

We all owe a big debt of gratitude to Matt and Joellyn Schwarzmann. (And the whole Schwarzmann family who stuffed name tags!) Matt and Joellyn hosted and organized our Thursday night welcome event, helped me tremendously with logistics from their home in Lexington, and Matt ran go-between for me and the VMI Alumni Association on many occasions. Thank you for your contribution to our class!

Finally, I thank my lovely wife, Laura, who really planned and executed the event. Laura did all of the background planning and work with the hotels, the various vendors, and the Alumni Association. In the end, she made me look really good – which she has done for the past 22 years as my partner and wife. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

As you peruse this issue of the Alumni Review, you should see many photos and accountings of the reunion. I hope it helps capture some of the memories and the time there for those who could attend and those who could not make it.

Until next time, Rob

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 2.

1.

5.

3.

4.

7.

8.

6.

Class of 1990

9.

10.

1. Rob Clark, class agent; Hunter Trumbo, 25th Reunion Fundraising Committee chair; and Charles Plageman, class president, presented Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, with the 1990 25th Reunion commitment check at parade.

2. The class marched off the Parade Ground and into barracks to thank the Corps of Cadets for an outstanding parade and for some Old Yells.

3. Chris Huff, left, and Hunter Trumbo in the courtyard awaiting the Old Yell.

6. Class Agent Robert Clark said of this photo, “Paul Kricorian attempts to put someone into the Rat Line while awaiting the 1990 Class Old Yell in barracks.”

4. Class Agent Rob Clark “selfies” the class at the reunion dinner in Marshall Hall.

7. From left, Damon Williams, Jim Hynes and Ramon Williams took a break in the hospitality suite.

5. Brother rats from Midlothian, Virginia, were, from left, Ken Robinson, Jim Hubbard, David Kaulfers and Brian McCormack.

9. Doug Spitz, left, and Barry Johnson discussed the finer points of the fixed bayonet maneuver at parade.

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8. From left, Bill Gaspar, Mike Camp and Raynor Garey sported their 1986 matriculation t-shirts.

10. Finnie Coleman, class vice president, center top, led the Class of 1990 and barracks in an Old Yell for the Classes of 1993, ’87 and ’90.

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Class Notes

’91

George Petty III

Time has zipped right on by since August.

Seems like life is a sprint. It speeds by as though it were time spent with your date on hop weekend, unlike its more languid pace while you’re in your rack waiting for upperclassmen to kick in your door to begin a sweat party. Waiting for your turn at the payphones and staring at your cobweb-clogged mailbox also had the ability to stretch time.

I don’t recall any updates or pictures being sent since August; at least, I could not find any in my mailbox. (If I missed your note or picture, would that be three demerits or a 5-1-5?)

Communication has been limited to updates and the occasional queries from Fred Lehman, giving committee chairman, and Tom Heffern, co-chair of the social planning group. I have seen many you on Facebook celebrating milestones of marriage anniversaries of 20-plus years. BZ and many more years to you.

If you use Facebook, be sure you are a member of the VMI 1991 group. Updates about the reunion, memories of barracks life and recent life updates are being shared. I hope you received the save-the-date magnet mailed in October. If not, please note that the reunion will be the weekend of Sept. 30 - Oct. 1, 2016. A few

weeks after you read this, you should be receiving a letter and packet for reunion registration.

If I recall correctly, that package is sent midFebruary or early March. Thus, if you read this, but don’t have information about our reunion, chances are you need to update your contact information with the VMI Alumni Association.

Either contact them directly or send the information to me at the contact above. I have had old-timers say the Review always finds you.

This is a little short, but three paragraphs and three hundred words should count for an English 101 essay assignment. So, remember, you didn’t shine your shoes if Mr. Kiwi didn’t meet Sir Leather.

William Woodward

’92

Andy Tate

BRs, Here are the latest updates from our classmates.

Keith Peloquin provided another great update in which he wrote, “Chuck Douglass and I got together for drinks here in Tampa in October and made sure to order three scotches – two for us and one for our fallen BRs. That was the first thing we did after sitting down. So very sad to suffer the

Class of 1992: From left, Cadet Jack Weatherman ’19, Chuck Weatherman, Cadet Will Woodward ’18, Woody Woodward, John Brodie, Andy Tate, Mike Starling, Andy Krug and Cadet Ty Krug ’18 tailgating Sept. 12, 2015.

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Class of 1992: Keith Peloquin and Chuck Douglass in Tampa, Florida. loss of our brother rats, but as preceding classes know all too well, the farther we have to look back on our days at the Institute, the more frequently we’ll have to say goodbye to fallen BRs. Damn, that’s bleak. Anyway, Chuck and I caught up on each of our individual triumphs and setbacks and also managed to solve most of the world’s problems, in addition to consuming some fine libations. He’s over in the Sandbox on a one year remote deployment, which is far from his first long-term deployment in Afghanistan. He’s in the right place to do some real good by telling senior commanders at the local Operations Center where they’re about to go wrong. I have to admire Chuck’s willingness to stand in front of the flamethrower and tell the generals their ideas may be stupid. Fortunately, he’s tactful enough to gently lead them to that conclusion ‘on their own.’ He’s doing good things, and I’m glad there’s someone with his backbone in that staff billet.

“My roommate, Shannon Terhune, graduated early in the summer from seminary with another master’s degree. That cat is one of the most driven and capable people I know. He and his wife, Melodi, still live in the Chesapeake, Virginia, area, and Shannon just accepted a position as pastor at Raleigh Heights Baptist Church. That congregation has no idea how lucky they are. I’m tremendously happy for them and very proud of Shannon.

“Franco Neto and I had a chance to catch up on the phone recently. Franco and family (wife Ana,

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes “For the past 18 months, I’ve been sharpening sons Sam and Joshua and daughter Caroline) are just yet, but soon, soon, my precious...”

Joe McClung sent me an email updating his my skills as a home brewer. Dean Case and I stay still in McLean, Virginia, and he’s still doing intelligence work for the U.S. Navy. He’s starting to status in which he said, “On July 1, my business connected over Facebook, as he’s been bitten by look at the transition for when he ‘graduates’ from spun off from DuPont. So, after 16 years of ser- the home brewing bug, as well.”

I am sure that everyone has now heard of the the Navy to his second career in a couple of years. vice, I’m now a part of a new company called the His family is doing great, and his wife, Ana, keeps Chemours Company. I’m a regional business/ death of our BR, Stephen Morris. He died Sept. us updated on Facebook with pictures of each of market manager for our Teflon™ line of spe- 16, 2015, after a courageous one year battle against cancer. He is survived by his the kids’ activities. wife, Stephanie; sons, Ryan and Dan“Anthony Brinkley is still in Huntsville, Alabama, working as a rocket iel; and daughter, Sophie. Ten BRs atscientist – literally. That guy’s got a tended the funeral service in Fairfax, 40-pound brain. His wife, SamanVirginia, Sept. 23. They included John Driscoll, Kent Gring, Chris Jones, tha, recently started her own human Mike Morris, Franco Neto, Anhtuan resources company, and it looks as Nguyen, Harold Stills, Andy Tate, though it’s really taking off. Along Tom Timmes and me. After the serwith their two boys growing like weeds, they’re taking after their father vice, which included full U.S. Air by enjoying running long distances Force honors, we went outside the like studs. church and caught up with each other “Bob Burgess is doing great in his as well as doing an Old Yell for the post-U.S. Marine Corps job with a Class of ’92 in Stephen’s honor. John bank up in Delaware where he basiBrodie played Taps that night in barcally protects the bank by tracking racks in honor of Stephen, and Todd down shady financial transactions that Pegg sent out an email to the Corps incould be money laundering and such. cluding Stephen’s obituary. Stephen’s It’s a natural, if unexpected, extension interment will be held at Arlington Class of 1992: From left, Cadet Jarod Krug ’16, Pat Krug ’91, Cadet of similar work he did as a Marine in- Will Woodward ’18, Woody Woodward, Cadet Ty Krug ’18, Andy National Cemetery at a future date. I telligence officer – tracking bad guys’ Krug, Cadet Douglas Nguyen ’19 and Anhtuan Nguyen tailgating will keep everyone informed as soon as I know more details. Please continmoney moves back to terrorist cells. at Parents Weekend Oct. 17, 2015.

Wife Jennifer and their son, Cooper, ue to keep Stephanie and the family in are doing well and enjoying Delayour thoughts and prayers. If anyone would like to send a card or email, ware, if not the winters entirely. Bob they can be reached at: themorrises@ is actually going to be down here to cox.net or 5270 Ellicott Dr. Centrevwatch the New York Giants tangle here in Tampa with the Buccaneers. ille, VA 20120-1760.

He and Brian Loughery ’89 will both Chris Jones and his wife were able be staying with me, and I promise to to visit Stephen while in hospice, and show them around the town here in he wanted to relay that Stephen’s famSt. Petersburg. There may be cocktails ily truly appreciated the outpouring of involved, as well as golf, breweries and support. I got an email from Stephen’s bacon. I’ll have to iron my VMI flag parents that said how much they apfor it, I guess. preciated all of us coming to see him “Finally, I’m still quite happily flying Class of 1992: Brother rats and wives at the funeral of Stephen in the end and how much of a blessing a private jet for a wealthy family in the Morris Sept. 23, 2015. it was to Stephen, as he enjoyed our Tampa Bay area. I’ve had the pleasure company. They were also very grateof spending time in Napa, California, and White- cialty chemicals. My oldest started University of ful to John Brodie for the playing of Taps, as he fish, Montana, this fall so far. I’m also the new Delaware in the fall. He was a good high school and Stephen were close. I got an update from and busy owner of a 1932 house in St. Pete. Be- wrestler, and I was hoping he’d consider wres- Chris soon after the funeral. He reported that tween flying and working on setting up my house, tling for VMI. They were interested, but in “after much thought, we concluded it was time to start a new chapter after 22 years, eight months, I’m staying out of gangs and prison. Now that I the end, he had no interest. Upon learning of have a garage again, I intend to start looking for a VMI’s out-of-state tuition, I quickly got over it. 11 days and six hours of serving in the U.S. Army. used motorcycle to put in it. I’m too busy with get- My daughter is a senior in high school and go- To our great fortune, I received a generous offer ting the house set up to be motorcycle shopping ing through the process of applying to colleges. to become a regional engineer with Boral. We are

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Class Notes now en route to start my next career in Birmingham, Alabama, which, from personal observation, is a great town. I look forward to connecting with any BRs or fellow Alumni in Alabama. The VMI flag hanging outside our front door signals we welcome any Keydets, past or present.”

I have made it to VMI to almost all the home football games this season and have seen a great many BRs, including Andy Tate, Andy Krug (and his son, Ty ’18, who is the recipient of our class scholarship, as well as brother Pat Krug ’91 and his son, Jarod ’16), Chuck Weatherman (and his son Jack ’19), Anhtuan Nguyen (and his son Douglas ’19), Charlie Martin, Mark Thackston, Jason Troxell, Bill Sharp, Dave Womack, Mike Starling, Bill Leimkuhler, Alan McKinnon and Dave Soldow. Unfortunately, we have not remembered to take pictures at each game, but I am including a few in these notes. Dave Soldow did send me an update following our meeting. Dave is currently the commanding officer of Cruise Missile Support Activity Pacific in Honolulu. This summer, he will take over as CO of USS Ohio (SSGN-726).

Mike Starling also sent me an update where he reported that he and his wife, Jenny, celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary in September but actually took an anniversary trip in August before school started. They flew to Boston for a weekend and then drove to central coastal Maine (Booth Bay Harbor) for a week.

Please continue to send me any updates and pictures for inclusion in future class notes. Additionally, please let me know of any major life events such as marriages, births, deaths and advanced degrees so that I can inform the Alumni Review.

If you have a change of address, let the Alumni Association and I know so that we can make sure you get all VMI correspondence.

Best regards, Woody

’93

Jim Sharp

I hope these notes are finding everyone in good spirits. I am writing these after a big Halloween weekend. I received a note from Brian DaRin. “It’s been a few years since I sent in an update, but I’m soon to travel to Fort Lewis, Washington, and thought there’s maybe a BR or

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two there at Fort Lewis-McChord. Anyway, I’m going to do a practice run as the political adviser for Lt. Gen. Lanza, I Corps commanding general, before they participate in the Yamazakura exercise in my part of Japan this December. I have run across VMI men (Classes of ’89 and ’88), mostly in uniform, from Camp Zama and Pacific Command. If anyone plans on coming to western Japan to see, say, Kyoto or Hiroshima, I’m the political-economic chief at the U.S. Consulate-General Osaka-Kobe and am easy to find but rarely in office. As deputy to the consul general, I’m afforded the opportunity to do all kinds of fun things that I oft times post on my Facebook page. I’m ambassador Caroline Kennedy’s control officer when she travels out our way. Photos of the Sea-to-Summit triathlon that we did this past weekend will go up soon.”

Dallas Grubbs checked in, as well. “Not much has changed in Wyoming, other than we are finally having a warm fall instead of freezing cold temps in September/October. I have several elk hunts planned for the season and am hosting Paul Meadows and Craig Currie for a quick trip in November. Should prove to be exciting!” It’s always good to have a BR in Wyoming. Smart of Paul and Craig to head out there.

Chris Kemper: “Molly and I are in the process of starting a new chapter. On Sept. 1, Molly started as the executive director of the Newberry Opera House in Newberry, South Carolina. I am in the process of retiring. We recently purchased a house in Newberry and will be moving the kids after the end of the school year. Ellis, our oldest daughter, is nine now and told me the other day that she wants to go to the Air Force Academy and be an astronaut! Mafra, our youngest at age six, decided she wants to go to VMI like her dad and ‘fight bad guys.’ I see some competition in the future! If ever in Newberry, stop by and say hi. We are square in the middle of Citadel country, but will proudly be flying our VMI flag from the front porch soon!”

Heath Bono: “As we get older, I send my first child off to college. Does that make us older or just that they are growing up? Anyway, she is going to Lesley University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, and is very happy with the school.

Wendy and I are taking one last family vacation and then bringing her to school the first weekend in September.

“On the civilian side, I still work for the police, but after 20 years of service, I finally landed a

desk job. I’m the training and accreditation sergeant. I am an office of one. No squad to worry about; no nights or weekends or rotating shifts.

I was running our Honor Guard that I started from scratch and got donated equipment (because the department didn’t want to spend money on gear), but the unit was recently disbanded.

The chief didn’t want to give the guys any compensation time for doing events on their days off. Time is valuable, and although I think Saint Patrick is a great guy and I’m glad he chased the snakes out of Ireland, I’m not marching for hours in the snow for nothing.

“On the military side, I run a training battalion for the state National Guard. I sent my officer candidates to Maryland for the National Guard regional phase three course for OCS. Low and behold, the Maryland OCS company commander is Major Oldfield, aka Corky.

Small world. We said that there are too many VMI ’93 guys within only a few hours’ drive of each other. We need to find some time and get together.”

Dave Lehmkuhl: “I have been in Raleigh now for two years having moved here from Austin, Texas, with Orion International as their southeast regional sales manager and now partner in the company. I work in the same office as Chris Demmons ’88. We also have a VMI guy in our San Diego office now, Matt Kokal ’08. Work is great, as it is always fun helping companies

Class of 1993: Honor Guard, Heath Bono.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes hire guys returning from the service. I see Dan Crawford around Raleigh at our kids’ indoor soccer games. How times have changed from Mary Baldwin College drunken mixers to being soccer dads cheering like it is the World Cup at 10 a.m. on a Saturday morning.”

Charles Leggett: “As you may already be tracking, this will be Chaplain Jim Park’s final year as Institute chaplain. He will be retiring at the end of this academic year in 2016. Thanks to Stephen Allison, I have submitted my application to succeed Chaplain Park as the Institute chaplain and chaplain to the Corps of Cadets.

This is a step I have been preparing for since we graduated 22 years ago. I would greatly appreciate the support of our BRs in this. Would it be possible for you to spread the word, asking everyone who is willing to write a short letter of recommendation to the Institute chaplain selection committee on my behalf ? It would mean so much to know that I have the faith of my brother rats as I take this next step in ministry. For those who consent, letters should be addressed to: Human Resources Office Virginia Military Institute Attn: Institute Chaplain Selection Committee 305 Letcher Ave. Lexington, VA 24450.”

Thank you, Charles, for the update. I will certainly be dropping a letter of support for your appointment. I think it would be great to see a BR in a leadership role at the Institute.

As for me, things are staying busy in Charlotte.

I am doing a fair amount of travel for work and am trying to reach out to BRs as I travel across the country.

As always, thank you to our BRs that are serving our country in uniform.

Jim

’94

Class of 1994: John Campbell with his sons, Jacob and Cash. Class Agent Clay Campbell said of this photo, “Kids teaching John how to fish.” door at the crack of dawn, and we were still not early enough to get a front row spot to the tailgate on the Parade Ground. To those BRs who have not been back in a while, tailgating at VMI on a football weekend has hit the big time. People start fighting to get on thr Parade Ground around 6 a.m. This is approximately around the same time that Fat Jimmy Bratina showed up on the Parade Ground, opened his first beverage of the day and began to grill himself hotdogs and hamburgers (it was 5 o’clock somewhere far, far away). It was indeed a great day seeing and reconnecting with many friends. Mike

Clay Campbell

Dear Brother Rats, As I write these notes for the Alumni Review, I do so with bourbon in hand on what is the 23rd anniversary of the class receiving our rings.

Funny thing is, 23 years ago at about this same time, I was force-feeding Fat Jimmy bourbon in a tent in Natural Bridge. See, BRs, I told you things really haven’t changed. Still don’t believe

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me? Ask the general or anyone else who had the pleasure of hanging with/baby-sitting Fat Jimmy Bratina at the mini reunion at VMI a few weeks ago. For the record, I am no longer the official jackass whisperer, so I nominate Jason Nichols or Chris Gros to take over the fine and honorable tradition of baby-sitting the F.J. On a side note, please never ask F.J. to toss a football to your young child after he has a) been around another BR for more than two hours, b) partaken of any adult beverage, c) unless Tiffany or the said newly appointed jackass whisperer is in arms reach. Many of you will completely understand my comments; to anyone else, we are talking about Fat Jimmy, so that should explain everything else.

I want to say it was great catching up to everyone who made it up to the mini reunion this fall. Special thanks to John Campbell, Sally, Jacob and Mama for hosting at the house and getting all the food squared away. Friday night we arrived at John’s to find Curt Crowder and Chris Coolidge and his boys hanging out.

Charlie Evans and Dee showed up a short time later with their kids, and we all had a good chance to catch up. The next morning, Sally was up before the sun to ensure that everyone would indeed gain at least 5 pounds from her amazing cooking. There was enough food to feed half the Rat Mass, but I’m certainly not one to complain about food. John rushed us out the

Class of 1994: From left, Chris Gros, Charlie Evans, John Campbell, Chris Coolidge, Hernan Barrero, Matt MacNeilly, Jimmy Bratina, Matt Fedowitz, Clay Campbell, Chris Doss, Mike Weaver and Dustin DeVore.

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Class Notes are thrilled about my selection, and Weaver came in with his son, as did I am personally excited to be able Matt Fedowitz. Chris Doss brought to put my own stamp on this office the whole family in; they had been at and continue my passion of helping the Virginia Tech game the night beyoung men and women fund their fore. Robin Riviere, Chris Passarge educational goals so they can purand Randy Elliott stopped by the tent to talk for a while. As mentioned sue their professional aspirations. before, I had a good chance to also In other job-changing news, many catch up with Jim Bratina, Chris of you probably already know that Gros, Hernan Barrero, John CampMarlin Ikenberry is now the head baseball coach at James Madison bell, Charlie Evans, Chris Coolidge University. He assumed control of and Dustin Devore. Matt Macneilly that program this past summer, and even made it back to VMI after many Class of 1994: Louis Louis on a flight with Duck Dynasty. his impact has already been felt with years away. He brought the family I spoke to Lee Clover through email. He is livthe recruits he has been able to sign. I predict along, as well. Elizabeth Teal also stopped by to great things to come for that program. He, check in and catch up while she was on post for ing in New York and works for Corning.

I also had the opportunity to speak with Will Shannon and the boys are excited about this the game. Now I must take a minute to become old and tell all about an observation I made this Gorman. He is currently living in the Virginia opportunity, and I imagine will move up I-81 at some point to Harrisonburg. weekend. Shut up and keep reading, because Beach area.

Tim Silva reached out to say that he is retiring This is a bit overdue, but Matt Reiner sent this is a stage, and I’m holding the mic. I want to say that I was truly, absolutely blown away from the Marine Corps with 22 years of service; me a note early this summer about his trip to by the children of our BRs. It is one thing for us now that is crazy. Skippy, where did the time Ed Boyette’s Air Force retirement ceremony. go from the days of hay fights and drinking in Geoff Taylor and Phil Moore were there from old knuckleheads to get together after years and the Bobar to you being a Marine major? All I our class, in addition to Tim Pennington ’91 fall in step, hang out and just be who we are. can say to that is boom chicka boom, come to and Jeff Taylor ’98. By all accounts, it was a We have a bond that was formed many years nice ceremony, and from what I’ve heard, Ed ago through struggles we went through together. Skippy...

BRs, I love y’all, and I’m proud to be associ- is enjoying retirement immensely ... although I I never expected to see our kids – various ages, some who have never met – take to one another ated with every one of you. Long live the Class believe he finally went back to work.

Football season has offered a few opportunithe way those kids did that day. The older kids of ’94.

Always, watched the younger ones, they made sure they ties to catch up with some brother rats. Early Pig stayed together, played games, laughed, joked on in the season, I was able to catch up with and ran around like they were the ones who had Rob Davis, John Byram, Gary Bailey and Thomas A. Brashears been old friends. I don’t recall a bad word, an Lloyd Taliaferro. All seemed to be doing well argument or even one child who felt left out. and were excited to see a win on the football They were the most polite and respectful kids, field. At another game later in the season, I and everyone was willing to assist when needed. caught up with Matt Reiner, Chip Rex, Stu I can’t truly express what I saw that weekend, Mallory and Arie Richards. Arie is back living Brother Rats, but I can say this, and I hope it translates. The in northern Virginia in a role similar to what he Does anybody know where time has gone?

Class of ’94 has excelled both in the military and private sectors; we have BRs who have had Hard to believe that as I write these notes, it great accomplishments but also – and above all is just about November. Time is sure flying – we have raised our kids to be great, as well. I by extraordinarily fast ... I think that pace rehope some of those kids will one day enter the ally picks up if you have kids. My kids are six Institute and maybe will be brother and sister and four now, and it seems like yesterday my daughter was two and my son was just born. rats and carry on, because they are truly amazOh, well. ing. I want to also say that I was impressed I have some personal news to share that I with some of the current cadets that came by am pretty darn excited about. Recently, I was to hang out for a bit. Despite being in different classes, they spoke to one another with words named to become the next director of financial Class of 1995: Dave Johnson and Sean of encouragement. Emily Kirk +24 stopped aid here at our beloved VMI. I will be succeedBurke at Union Street Pub in Alexandria, Virginia, helping to rededicate a small by, as well as Jake Hyde ’17 (son of Eric Hyde ing Timothy Golden ’71, who has been in the memorial to our fallen brother rat, Greg position since 1987. He will be enjoying a well’91). In all, it was a great weekend, and it’s alWright. earned and well-deserved retirement. Jill and I ways good to spend time with my brothers.

’95

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Class Notes money, and he is confident they’ll get had before assuming battalion comthe rest to start the church. He also has mand. Stu is doing great things up made second year apprentice with the that way, as well, and Matt continUnited Brotherhood of Carpenters ues to house and raise myriad aniand Joiners of America (Carpenters). mals as part of his effort to become Jamal Thomas went to the VMI self-sustaining. Chip, on the other versus the University Richmond foothand, continues to enjoy living out in Oregon. His wife, Imogen, gets ball game in Richmond. At the game back to Virginia every so often, but in the VMI section, he ran into Mike this was the first time Chip had been Burchik. back to the East Coast in a while.

Charles Gates was recently at an Back in September, I heard from Air Force event and had a pretty Sean Burke, who relayed to me unique opportunity. He met U.S. Air a story of him and Fatty JohnForce Col. Norman McDaniel. Mcson honoring Gregg Wright at the Daniel was shot down over Vietnam Union Street Pub in Old Town Aland was held as a prisoner of war for exandria. After Greg’s death in Iraq, six years by the communists.

Class of 1995: From left, Stu Mallory, Arie Richards, Chip Rex and an unknown patron of Union Street Matt Reiner outside their old 1st Class room.

I recently caught up with Tom Danielsen. Tom is doing well travelframed a photo of Greg and had it ing around the northeast for his job. While talkput up in the bar, where it remained for many Jason Trubenbach ’99 who works for the Departing with him, he was on his way to a wedding years. However, on a recent visit, Sean’s wife, ment of the Army. They had a great time catchErin, went in to toast Greg and realized that ing up and talking about stories from his Rat Line. in Provincetown, Massachusetts, that featured the picture had been taken down. The bartendChris says if anyone is in Korea, look him up. His traditional Bulgarian dancers.

Well, that is it for this round of the class notes. son will be graduating from high school there, and er (who remembered Greg) told Erin to contact the owner. She did and was told the photo was they will be there until 2017. I recently ran into Please keep an eye out for information for our 20th Reunion this spring. I’m definitely looking stolen from the bar. Not sure about the validity one of his Army school classmates at a Hallowforward to it! of that story, but the owner said he would put een party. Small world, indeed.

Cheers, Mike Ohleger once again ran the Marine Corps up a new photo. So, Sean had a photo framed Pete Segersten and the inscription reads: “GRW, JR, Friend Marathon with the “Wear Blue: Run to Rememto All, VMI 95, USMC, CIA, KIA-IRAQ ber.” Jamie Edge was honored during the “Blue 12/07/2005.” Fatty, Erin and Sean presented Mile” of the race.

Tim O. Moore the picture to the bar at the end of July. We are I met up with a few brother rats recently. I all hoping the picture remains there for a long, had lunch during the workweek with Christian long time. So, if you ever find yourself in Old Hoff. Christian is doing fantastic, of course. We Town, stop at Union Street and toast Greg. had some lunch at my favorite Tex-Mex place, That’s about it for this update ... do your best and it was great to catch up. Christian, Wes David M. Hudock to get back to the Institute and when you do, Parmer and Chris Antonelli had an interesting please stop by and say hello. golf outing in Leesburg. Something to do with Take great care and ’95, ’95, ’95! runaway golf carts.

I also met up with Kevin Boteler. We talked a Peter Segersten little shop and some stories from the VMI of past.

We occasionally meet up for a beer here and there.

Greetings from one-half of your class agents’ Mike Waltz’s book, “Warrior Diplomat: A desk! Hudock here, and I just saw the fall issue Green Beret’s Battles from Washington to Afof the Review. I must congratulate and thank Tim Moore for putting together the inaugural ghanistan,” was recently placed on the comGood Evening, Brother Rats! mander of United States Special Operations notes of our joint tenure as class agents. They look fantastic; thanks to all who contributed The clocks have moved back, and it’s now ofCommand’s reading list. Awesome! Mike conficially the Dark Ages once again. I remember tinues to be a guest on many shows with regards and we look forward to keeping this new trend those cold, breezy nights on guard duty in the wee to the issues in the Middle East and other parts alive and well.

Speaking of Tim, he wants to report to the hours of the morning in barracks. Very quiet and of the world. class that he and his wife, Elizabeth, are dopeaceful.

Mark Simonds dropped a line from PennsylChris Noe dropped a line from freedom’s fronvania. Mark is busy setting up a new church in ing well. Their kids are growing fast. Their tier in South Korea. In August, he had a visit from Oakdale, Pennsylvania. They’ve raised half the youngest, Timothy, turned two Nov. 23. Tim

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Class Notes and Elizabeth are headed up to Philadelphia in Force Reserve IMA major. He and Jason visited dropped me a line and said he took his family on an epic cross country road trip last year which October to run a half-marathon with Jack Polce. their rats, Pat Haddock ’00 (Jason’s) and Brad Two weeks after that, he is running the Anthem Allen ’00 (Smoothy’s), as well as fellow chemis- culminated in his running the Canadian Death Half-Marathon in Richmond. In non-running try major, Micah North ’00, for some game time Race – a 125 km “ultra” in the Rocky Mounnews, the program Tim founded tains of Alberta, Canada. He claims it and implemented at VMI, Keydets kicked his old a$$, but he successfully Without Borders, continues to grow inspired his three kids (now 13, 11 exponentially and move forward with and 9 years old) to complete the Kids’ a new enrollment of over 200 cadets Canadian Death Race. He is proud of this semester. The group will be headthem for finishing a grueling, mouning to Bolivia again this coming sumtain run and is planning to go back in 2017. He asked, “Who else is in?!” He mer and has even added a second trip sees a lot of our BRs while living in to next summer’s itinerary – this one Richmond even while he and Janice to Guatemala. Tim recently had the are heavy into their children’s many opportunity to speak to Virginia’s activities: Scouting, lacrosse, guitar governor about KWB. The visit was a and voice lessons, running, wrestling, success; the governor sees Tim’s proand basketball. These are exciting gram as a model for others to follow (and busy) times for all of them! He in the realm of college-level service also has some land and a cottage at programs. Work at the Institute is still the base of House Mountain, where good; he is up for tenure this year and he spends as much time as possible will promote to colonel in 2016. As hiking, camping, shooting and riding always, if any BRs and their families ATVs and minibikes. It’s more peaceare ever in Lexington and want to hit him up when they come, he and Elizful than he remembers it as a rat. Add abeth would love to see them. Carey Class of 1997: Tim Moore, left, met up with Jack Polce, right, and pointed out that our 20th Reunion Michael took him up on that offer at a Jack’s grad school classmate, Pat Cyr, in Philadelphia Oct. 31, 2015, will be in April 2017, and he hopes to to run the Philadelphia Rock ’n’ Roll Half Marathon. see everyone then, if not before. recent home football game and hung This year was apparently a banner out with them; Tim said he looked year for sauerkraut, as Dano Owens great and hasn’t changed at all. and his wife made and “put up” (preJason St. Clair checked in with the news that he and his wife, Chelsea, served) over 200 pounds of the stuff just celebrated their 15 year anniverfor personal use and sale. It’s a part time hobby/obsession in his family, sary! Congratulations, guys! They he tells me. Work is well, he says, as recently took a family trip (kids and Wells Fargo has him managing Alasall) to Vail, Colorado, to attend their friend’s wedding. He said it was cool ka, Arizona, Hawaii, New Mexico, to swing by Cheyenne, Wyoming, Nevada and Oregon for the relocawhere he was stationed at F.E. Wartion division, and they’re looking to close $1.6 billion in loans this year. He ren Air Force Base 15 years ago. He keeps in contact with Andrew Staich and his wife impressed their kids by about every other week with the ocshowing them their dumpy old apartment from the late ’90s and followed casional email. He hasn’t heard from that with some great hikes in the local Donnie Hasseltine in some time, but area. from what Andrew said, he is doing Jason also met up with Lyle “Smoowell in the Marine Corps. He offered thy” Peters for the Class of 2000 re- Class of 1997: Bill Stagg, left, and Cooper Reid recently met at if any of us ever happen to get up to a Washington Nationals game in Washington, D.C., to fondly Minnesota to drop him a line, and union football game. Smoothy is living recall Han Kao. he’ll get together with us. in Bel Air, Maryland, and working at Josh Smith reported in from the “third coast.”

Aberdeen Proving Ground for PEO C3T in the drinks. Smoothy reports it was great catching up He said all is well down there, where he is still Warfighter Integration Network-Tactical Incre- and all are doing well.

Evidently snake hearts are not enough adven- working in the pharmaceutical industry and enment 2 Program Office. When he is not working at WIN-T, he also works for DCMA as an Air ture for YouTube sensation Addison Hagan, who joying the easy life South Texas has to offer. He

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Class Notes and his wife are wrapping up their first year with the twins who brought the headcount of Smith children to six! Needless to say, it has been a little hectic for them, but life is good.

Back in September, Cooper Reid went up to Washington, D.C., where he ran into Bill Stagg at a Washington Nationals pregame party. Nice picture of you both, but where are the after-game party pictures? Coop also mentioned Daniel Williams and his son, Graham, recently stayed with him in Midlothian for a few days. Graham is evidently the “rain man” of NASCAR and all of them went to a race together to test his knowledge. The next morning, they caught up with Rick Hezel and his sons for brunch, which meant at one table, there were three rat roommates and all of their respective sons, which was pretty cool.

Coop’s only regret is not taking a group picture!

I had a quick conversation with Adam Letts who informed me that he, along with his wife, Keturah, and his boy, Bradley (9 years old), are living out in the eastern panhandle of West Virginia where he works at a small police department. When he’s not chasing bad guys, he’s running his boy to and from baseball practice and helping his wife train the few race horses they keep out there.

You may have heard through your social media connections, but in case not, Gary Compton completed the Hampton Crawlin’ Crab HalfMarathon with Mike Moody. While there, they saw Mike’s rat, Harold Caples ’00. Gary thinks that Mike was well rested since he missed so many rat workouts on account of his rat injury that required a cane! The finish line party coincided with the Virginia Craft Beer Festival, and Mike was lucky enough to talk his wife into being a designated driver for them. Congrats to you both for completing the race (and finding a DD)!

Kevin Ash and Tom Wagner remained busy over the past couple of months sharing personal photos of spiders and other frightening things via our class Facebook page. Beef just wants to know which one of you took the picture and which one of you posed for it.

To wrap things up for this issue, I can inform you that I am very happy to have completed my first and what will most likely be my last marathon; I figured after turning 40 earlier this year and living in D.C., there was no excuse to not run the 40th Marine Corps Marathon. My feet will still be thanking me by the time you read this. And if the Marine Corps wasn’t generous

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enough already, it also saw fit to promote me to lieutenant colonel in September. To help celebrate, Mike Belenky came down from Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania, where he is still living the high life with Blythe and his three kids. Despite these great Marine events this year, I’m still making the same coffee in the same office of the Pentagon. If you’re ever in the nation’s capital, let me know, and I’d be happy to give you a tour of my cubicle! Thanks for all your contributions; we look forward to reporting again in the winter!

John A. Strock

’98

Hamel Reinmiller

I hope you are all doing well. By the time you read this, fall will have passed us by, and we’ll be begging for spring. Thanks to all who submitted notes this round.

I have become very involved on the board for the Potomac River Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association, helping to plan events and drum up support. I encourage all of you to get involved in your local areas, whether it’s to volunteer, join the board or just attend events. It’s a great way to network and share camaraderie with VMI alumni from all classes.

Pat Roberts has been with the city of Suffolk, Virginia, for eight years. He and wife Kate live there with their girls, Mary and Ginny. Dave Pouleris and his family live around the corner, and they bump into him in the neighborhood sometimes. Pat was appointed city manager in September and was sworn in Oct. 26, 2015. City manager is an appointed job, and he works for the city council as the chief administrative officer and policy adviser for the city government. This is what he decided to do during 2nd Class year.

The summer between 2nd and 1st Class years, he was an intern for the Lexington city manager and knew it was right for him. Huge congrats, Pat! After two-and-a half years in Seoul with United States Forces Korea and Eighth Army, Tim O’Bryant, wife Morgan and daughter Zoey made the move this summer to Vicenza, Italy.

Tim is working as the G6 exercise chief for U.S. Army Africa and will more than likely be making a few trips down to the African continent.

Tim and Brendan Toolan were able to see each other a few times while they were both in Korea, as well as hooking up with Andy Beaman while he was in town for a business trip. Tim says anyone who happens to be in Europe/Northern Italy should let him know, as he has plenty of room.

Matt Staton was down in the Grand Cayman islands the first week of November with eight fellow combat wounded soldiers getting in a week of scuba diving. Then it will be time to begin the winter ski season. Matt ran into Matt Baldwin at the annual Association of the United States Army Conference VMI alumni and cadet reception. He also constantly crosses paths with Jim Peay, who is now assigned within the executive staff in the director of Army staff’s office. Matt is getting ready for another boss changeover with the secretary of the Army’s office, as the Hon. John McHugh steps down. Matt said, “Who knows what the political arena will throw at us as a curve ball with the nomination of Mr. Eric Fanning.”

Joshua Metcalf checked in from Jackson, Mississippi. He is still practicing law and said he feels like he spends more time on the road defending his clients in toxic tort cases than he does in Jackson (recently Portland, Seattle, Charleston and, this winter, Madison, Wisconsin). He’s gotten to catch up with BRs in many of these locales, so be on the lookout. Recently, Joshua; his wife, Amelia; and their four kids were able to grab lunch with Nate Pierpoint; his wife, Jenni; and their four kids (yes, they pretty much invaded the restaurant). Nate and Jenni were passing through Jackson on their way back home to Niceville, Florida.

Brook and Mary Katherine Barbour and their children, Hadley Jane and Alden, relocated to Briarcliff Manor, New York, from Arlington, Virginia, in August. Brook has been commuting to New York for the last two years with PwC, and Mary Katherine took a new position with her company, The Nature Conservancy, managing the loyal donor program for the state of New York.

Chad Novacek is still living in Nebraska and working with the railroad and slaughtering his student loans. Two more years (barring any furlough) and he will be a free man for the first time since 1994! Never married, Chad is

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Class Notes looking forward to finding that awesome life partner someday.

Neil Holloran was sitting in a meeting with a group in Washington, D.C., and a guy introduced himself as they were going around the room. It turned out to be none other than Dave Willey. Dave is working in D.C., living in Fairfax and looking to reconnect to VMI. The Institute is a small world! Neil said he “still has a bit of room left for wayward VMI men on their way into or out of D.C. for a beer and a bite at the house Fredericksburg. We’re less than five minutes off exit 126.” Be careful what you ask for, Neil...

That’s all for now.

’99

William Steinbach

Brother Rats, I am going to dispense with the intro and just jump in this time.

Ricco Espinoza is still in Quantico with Training Command. He was recently and happily married to the former Julie Marie Vaden in September.

Barry Williams is still in Alexandria, Virginia, working at Fort Belvoir/Pentagon. His son and daughter are actively involved in sports, so that keeps him and his wife pretty busy.

Mike McDermott is settled in the Washington, D.C., area serving penance on the Army staff.

He had dinner with Barry Williams and Travis Quesenberry a few months ago, and the families got to meet. With Barry working at Fort Belvoir, Mike is hoping to see him again soon.

Dave Kazmarek is stationed in Belgium at SHAPE HQ working in the J9 as a planner.

His wife, Jen, and daughters, Sofia and Amelia, moved there in July and are scheduled to be there for the next three years. They are enjoying touring Europe and working on their French. Give Powell Harrison a call, Dave. He can help you with your French. Speaking of Powell, he sent me this note: “I can’t remember what I’ve mentioned in notes past, so here’s a little summary of what I’ve been up to. Six months of marriage, and all is well. No baby on the way just yet, however.

2016, maybe? Audrey and I have moved from Biarritz to Hossegor, further north on the coast but still in southwest France. We’re still the dynamic duo in our little language school in Biarritz where

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we teach English to French kids, and during the summer and school breaks, we do an English and surfing day camp. We also work as volunteers alongside a pastor and his wife to help lead Surf Church Hossegor. We’ll be in Richmond and North Carolina in December for a little stateside visit.”

Cliff Ford sent along this update: “I’m still in the San Diego area – been here since 2002, except for all the deployments. I haven’t made it to VMI since just after graduation. I did manage an overfly in 2012 in an MV-22. Hope to make it back someday.” Good to hear from my old co-dyke, Cliff. We hope you can make it back soon, as well, other than just buzzing the barracks.

Jason Fletcher is in Roanoke as the director of operations and financial consultant for Freedom First Wealth Management.

Ryan Thompson sent in this update: “I’ve got a few updates. First, last weekend, BR Jason Crigler came to visit me and my family in Connecticut. We had a great time, and my kids call him Uncle Jay Jay now. I recently got promoted to lieutenant colonel in the Army Reserve and now drill with the Contingency Response Unit in Washington, D.C. Also, about two months ago, I took a job with the city of Norwich, Connecticut, as the director of Public Works. So things are going really well for me and my family – couldn’t be happier right now. Hope the rest of the class is doing well, and I look forward to reading the class notes.” Good stuff, Ryan. Congrats on the promotion and the new civilian gig.

Connor Powell is still living in Jerusalem and working for Fox News. His wife had a book that came out a few months ago, “The Secret Sky,” about Afghanistan. So, between travel for his job and her book tour, they are traveling a lot. He tells me his son is less than a year old and has two passports and has already visited six countries! That is more than I have visited, for sure.

Matt Hart sent me this: “I am still working for Wells Fargo in Winston Salem. I thought they were going to get rid of our department, but I have found out that I am not going to be displaced. They are going to find other work for us to do. I have been able to encourage our building to install bike lockers, and then they installed lockers for bike commuters to store stuff overnight. I was part of a corporate video on YouTube promoting bike commuting. I have heard that the video was used by someone on a project for school. I was at an event last night and someone asked me, ‘Are

you the Wells Fargo Matthew?’ I said, ‘I guess so.’

She had seen the video and thought it was cool.

By the end of October, I have ridden 4,000 miles this year. I did not get a chance to ride the C&O Towpath as I had hoped this year. I am also looking for a job in the Winchester area, if anyone knows of anything or has contacts. I have a friend who is planting a church, and I have been asked to join him in the process, but I would need to find some sort of financial support or a full-time job. Powell Harrison got married this year, and we traveled to Richmond to celebrate with him and meet his bride. It was great to see them. Jason Smith has a promotion within the BSA and is moving to Goldsboro.” I guess Matt is famous now. Jake Abell, Billy Gauge and Ryan Bogese all sent me somewhat corroborated yet still conflicting updates. None of them were fit for print.

Good to hear from so many people this time, particularly those that do not check in regularly.

Keep it coming...

In the bonds, Bill

’00

Jim Boatwright

2000! 2000! 2000! Old Yells from the 15th Reunion are behind us, and the milestone 20-year reunion will be here before we know it. Special thanks to Shawn Segreti for leading the planning efforts for another epic reunion, and in typical Shawn fashion, he has already volunteered to take charge for the next one. Our class is lucky to have someone dedicated to making these events special, and I speak for the class when we say, “Thank you!” Shawn had a great team of our BRs helping him plan, and they must be recognized for their hard work. They include Matt McComas, Tony Esteve and Dave Merchan. Speaking of Matt McComas, Matt’s term as class agent has come to an end, and I will do my best to pick up where Matt left off and ensure we are all staying in touch. Thank you for your service, Matt.

In attendance at our reunion were: Pat Haddock, Jay Kearney, Chris Haney, Dave Hoffman, Billy Meyers, Carl Hammond, Stewart Staton, Beau Mason, Marty Silman, Scott Johnson, Greg Fedor, Michael Goldman, Read Parker, Brian Lee, Jared Snawder, Matt Williams (Echo), Ross Fuller, Matt Martin, Kenny Sykes, Don Ferguson,

VMI Alumni Review

Front: Will Moore. From left, row 2: Craig Giorgis, Chris Abbott, John Pomfret, Ethan Graham, Dave Epperly, Adam Priest and Andrew Bowen.

Row 3: Michael Mule’, Mickey Wing, Shawn Segreti, Brett Martin and Josh Wagner. Row 4: Jason Maslow, Matt Neely, Derek Englehard, Rich Baltimore, Matt McComas and Chris Gamble. Row 5: Jimmy Banton, Tony Cerella, Clint Mundinger, Kenny Denton and Harold Caples. Row 6: Ross Fuller, Matt Martin, Kenny Sykes, Don Ferguson, Paul Keeton and Tom Boyer. Row 7: Scott Johnson, Greg Fedor, Michael Goldman, Read Parker, Brian Lee, Jared Snawder and Matt Williams. Row 8: Jay Kearney, Chris Haney, Dave Hoffman, Billy Meyers, Carl Hammond, Stewart Staton, Beau Mason and Marty Silman. Present but not pictured: Chris Boswell, Pat Haddock, Joe Poppa, Tony Esteve, Bradley Allen, Paul Belmont, Shaun DeVane, Brian Hay, Matt Keller, Chris Lucas, Micah North, Jon Palmer and Brian Skusa. (Editor’s Note: Caption provided by class agent.)

Class Notes

15th Reunion – Oct. 10-11, 2015

The Class of 2000

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Class Notes Paul Keeton, Tom Boyer, Jimmy Banton, Tony Cerella, Clint Mundinger, Kenny Denton, Harold Caples, Jason Maslow, Matt Neely, Derek Englehard, Rich Baltimore, Matt McComas, Chris Gamble, Michael Mule, Mickey Wing, Shawn Segreti, Brett Martin, Josh Wagner, Craig Giorgis, Chris Abbott, John Pomfret, Ethan Graham, Dave Epperly, Adam Priest, Andrew Bowen, Will Moore. Not pictured in the class photo but present at reunion were Chris Boswell, Pat Haddock, Joe Poppa, Tony Esteve, Bradley Allen, Paul Belmont, Shaun DeVane, Brian Hay, Matt Keller, Chris Lucas, Micah North, Jon Palmer and Brian Skusa. If I left anyone off the list, my apologies, and be sure to let me know. A summary of reunion events included a Thursday night visit to the Palms for dinner, drinks and conversation. This event was attended by Brian Skusa, Micah North, Chris Abbott, Shawn Segreti, Brett Martin and Andrew Bowen. Everyone caught up on the past five years and for some, the past 15 years. Friday’s activities included a head-to-head

Class of 2000: Class of 2000 flag at the tailgate party at the 15th Reunion.

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competitive sporting clays match between Brett Martin and Shawn Segreti. Shawn pulled off the upset. Lunch at Salernos followed and included Derek Englehard, Matt McComas, Matt Keller and Tony Esteve, along with the sporting clays competitors. Friday night dinner included a discussion of Class of 2000 business. Our class has never had a ring in the VMI Museum, and this long overdue item has been resolved thanks to the generosity of our Brother Rat Scott Hillyer. Scott is to be recognized for stepping up and ensuring our class legacy is preserved at the VMI Museum.

A discussion on the 20 year reunion followed, and it was noted that in order to minimize the cost of the reunion and its events, greater participation is needed on the planning side and also on the attendee side. It is anticipated that the next reunion will require between 20 and 30 volunteers to manage the tasks into reasonable commitments. When the time comes, I know we will put together a team that will ensure success. The final order of class business was the selection of a class agent, and Jim Boatright was selected. Saturday morning included tailgating at the Institute Society parking lot and was a big hit with all. Mickey Wing and Kenny Denton were up at zero dark 30 to help locate a prime spot on the parade field and set up.

Thanks go to all who helped make tailgating a success: Brett Martin, Kenny Sykes, Kenny Denton,

Mickey Wing, Tony Cerella, Scott Kuebler, Scott Johnson, Jay Kearney, Bo Mason, Harold Caples (MF), Tony Esteve, Matt McComas, Ethan Graham, Matt Keller, Chris Lucas, Jon Palmer, Marty Silman and Jared Snawder. This well-attended event included many wives, children, friends and family members. Following the parade was the great tradition of Old Yells in Old Barracks. Our Old Yells were led by Chris Boswell and Paul Belmont. Following the football game was a brief dinner at the hotel which closed the official activities. I hope this recap provides some good perspective for those who were not able to attend.

Moving on to updates. Tony Cerella was first to check in and says his family – Bethany and his 7-year-old twins, Tony and Sophie – are nearing the completion of their third year in South Korea.

Tony recently finished a year as a support operations officer and is currently a support battalion XO. Bethany continues to teach yoga regularly and more impressively is homeschooling their “twinjas.” Tony and Bethany will depart Korea in summer 2016 and are looking forward to their next assignment. Tony says he traveled to the reunion and enjoyed catching up with BRs and visiting Lexington.

Jay Kearney also checked in to say hello and that the reunion was great.

Will Ward sent an enthusiastic update that he

Class of 2000: Chris Boswell and Paul Belmont led Old Yells at the 15th Reunion.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes graduated law school and was hired on as an assistant district attorney in Brazos County, Texas.

He says it is the home of Texas A&M University, and if you were wondering, “Johnny Football was a headache here, too.” Will advises he tricked a woman into marrying him last March, but he says she is wonderful despite her very poor taste in men. Paul Lee and Alicia flew down to help celebrate the wedding. Paul was Will’s best man and kept him sober enough to get through the ceremony. Will ran into Greg Bosley several months ago in a restaurant in Galveston, and Greg was getting ready to deploy. Will said he has not heard from him, so Greg, please check in with us! Will closed out by saying the years have been very kind to him, and he is looking forward to showing off his physique at the next reunion.

Chris Lucas dropped me a line to say hello.

Mike Lim checked in and updated that the Yahoo! Group is still up and running. I did not realize that Yahoo! and Hotmail were still in business, but the Class of 2000 seems loyal to both.

Donald O’Sullivan updated that he is living near the U.S. Military Academy and working for Salesforce managing a global team responsible for Morgan Stanley. He hopes to get together with some BRs next summer for a trip to Brian Skusa’s area of Cincinnati. Donald enjoyed the reunion and hopes everyone else that attended did, as well.

Charles Bryan and his wife, Angela (sister of our BR Steve Roman and Christopher Roman ’02), and their 15-month-old daughter, Olivia, moved to Tacoma, Washington, this past summer. Angela is a major in the Army and is the only active duty pediatric rheumatologist in the Army. She is stationed at Madigan Army Hospital at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, which was the reason for their move. Charles is on faculty at the University of Washington Tacoma teaching computer science and said it is nice to teach at his other alma mater.

He says maybe one day he will get to go back to the Institute and teach there. Charles updated that Matt Williams (Echo) came out to visit Washington in August. Matt lives in northern Virginia and spends most of his free time scuba diving. Charles and Matt made an attempt to climb Mount Rainier but got turned around.

It is always great to hear from Chris Boswell, aka Bozz. Chris updated he is still in Lynchburg and working for Stryker, still married to Megan (whom he refers to as a “saint” for putting up with him), and still playing a lot of amateur golf around the commonwealth in tournaments. He stays in

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pretty good touch with ‘Big’ Matt Williams (Alpha). Matt and his dad have a business together.

They sell products to dairy farms, and Matt stays on the road visiting customers. Chris updated that Matt Vordermark and his wife, Annie Gordon, sister of Whit Johnston, moved back to Lynchburg about a year ago. Matt graduated from law school and is gearing up to begin practice. Matt’s brother-in-law, Whit Johnston, is living in Forest, Virginia, and practicing law. Whit and his bride, Abbey, welcomed twins, Samuel and Scarlett, last year. Eric Walker also lives in Lynchburg and is married with two kids. Chris Boswell got him to join a VMI alumni fantasy football league, and they have enjoyed staying in touch.

It was really great to hear from Devon Jones.

Devon lives in Richmond, and he and his wife have a new baby.

Greg Fedor lives in northern Virginia with his wife and two kids.

I also wanted to update that Emily and I are living in Atlanta, Georgia, and having fun with our two kids. Madeline is nine and Whitaker is eight.

I am working for the state of Georgia managing construction projects for colleges and universities.

Pat Haddock lives in Atlanta and works for Coca Cola. We talk regularly and got together with Nick Castleberry for beers a while back. When Pat and I first reconnected here in Atlanta, we went to a Georgia Tech football game and ran into Kelly Underwood while walking to the game. Kelly was in town visiting his sister. It was an odd coincidence, but we stopped for a picture. I also ran

into Alan Johnson at an Atlanta Falcons game last year, and we reconnected a few weeks later for lunch. Alan was working for Norfolk Southern. I stay in touch with Will Warthen, and he is doing well and enjoying life with his family.

One final update is that I heard from Jay Mogge.

He lives in Birmingham and has two kids. Jay is in the commercial construction business. He updated that his work will likely move him to Houston, Texas, in the near future.

That is all for notes, but I need your help. An email address has been established for class notes, and it is classnotes2000vmi@gmail.com. If you haven’t already, please be sure to send a current email address to this address, and it will be added to the distribution notices which will be sent four times per year. Please keep the updates, pictures and notes coming at least once a year, so we can all stay in touch with each other. Also, be sure to notify the email address if you get married, have a child or earn a degree, and we will be sure it gets published in the right place. Finally, to all of our brother rats that have served or are currently serving our great country: Be safe, and thank you!

’01

Brandon Farris

Brother Rats, Hope all is well with everyone. Looks like we are getting even older. Our 15th Reunion is going to

Class of 2001: Pictured at the Farris household were, from left, Melissa Graham (Adamski), Drew Carbone, Jake Williams, Kevin Consedine, Steve Kolenich, Melissa Williams, Brandon Farris, Adam Vergne, and family.

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Class Notes joined for the occasion, and they are be Oct. 28-29, 2016. Please go ahead bringing it to the Middleburg Film and mark it on your calendars. More Festival in October. Charlie is lookinfo will follow soon.

Steve Kolenich and his wife, Mading forward to making another film next year, and all else is well in New die, spent two weeks in Italy in SepYork City. tember. It was Steve’s first time going Kelly Sullivan and Melissa Wilto Europe. Not knowing if they would ever get a chance to go back, Steve liams met in Orlando for a quick and Maddie wanted to accomplish trip. Melissa is doing great, and as many things as they thought we Kelly is still living in sunny Florida! could fit in. Steve said, “We hit most Jared Kuhnhenn got married in of the major attractions we wanted to San Diego Sept. 5, 2015, to U.S. see. In Rome, we saw the Coliseum, Army Capt. Christine Chang. Oscar the Pantheon and the Forum, and we Alfaro made it to the wedding and visited the Sistine Chapel in Vatican they all had a blast down there (obCity. We saw the Last Supper in Mi- Class of 2001: From left, Jason Whitaker, Dawn Whitaker, Seth vious by the picture). The reception lan. We visited the Leaning Tower in Enterline ’06 and Jamie Enterline at Stone Mountain, Georgia, was at the Point Loma Submarine Base right on the water. Jared and Pisa. We saw a lot of art in Florence, Aug. 8, 2015.

Christine spent their honeymoon ate pizza in Naples, visited the ruins in Belize in Central America. Jared of Pompeii and just quietly wandered was also just selected for promotion in Venice. While pretty much everyto major in the Army Reserve. Christhing we ate was good, the best meal was the wild boar with pasta I had in tine just recently graduated with her Florence. It was a good trip, but we master’s in supply chain manageare glad to be back.” ment at Pennsylvania State UniverMy wife, Lorin, and I hosted a getsity, and she continues to command together for our northern Virginia/ a Forward Support Company down Washington, D.C., area BRs Labor at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Day weekend. We had pretty good Drew Dickinson and his family attendance and look forward to are relocating through work. They doing it again soon. Melissa Grawill be moving to the Tidewater area in summer 2016. ham (Adamski), Drew Carbone, Jason Whitaker and his wife Jake Williams, Kevin Consedine, Class of 2001: From left, Oscar Alfaro with Jared Kuhnhenn and his wife, Christine. ran into Seth Enterline ’06 and Steve Kolenich, Melissa Williams his wife, Jamie. They met them and Adam Vergne and family all when walking back down the trail to the top showed up. of Stone Mountain in Georgia Aug. 8. Jason Tony Gelormine reported in to let the class said, “I did not notice who they were at first, know he has moved back to the Hampton as what caught my attention was how well Roads area, but lives in Moyock, North Carotheir two children were trekking up the rocks. lina, because he says there’s too many damn I mentioned how their daughter was moving people crammed in Virginia. He refuses to quickly up with no issue even while carrying a change his Colorado cellphone number bepack and commented that she was ready for a cause he knows the feds are tracking him anyruck sack. Somehow Seth and I got to talking way. He linked up with John Koubaroulis and about the military, and VMI came up. It is then his rat, Adam Halstead ’04, and is excited to when we realized who each other was. Seth’s hopefully take his son, Anthony, to a football wife, Jamie, is the sister of my roommate Chris game this fall.

Simpson’s wife, Kacie. I called Chris who is Mark Nemeth is now the proud parent to a in Huntsville, Alabama, right away to let him bouncing baby boy. Oliver Andrew Nemeth know who we had run into. It truly is a small was born April 3, 2015. world. Life here in northern Virginia is good Charlie Bunting’s movie, “The Preppie ConClass of 2001: Mark Nemeth and his son, but busy, especially now that our two girls are nection,” just premiered at the Hamptons InOliver Andrew Nemeth. in school, playing soccer and taking dance. I ternational Film Festival. Ben Kinkaid ’99

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 2001: Steve Kolenich at the Colosseum. owe my wife, Dawn, constant thanks on how well she coordinates everything at home to keep us all on track.”

Thanks again to everyone who weighed in.

Great to hear from you all, and I look forward to seeing everyone at the reunion!

Brandon

’02

Salmaan Khawaja

Brother Rats, I hope that this edition of the Alumni Review finds you and yours doing well. As I write these

notes, barracks have just changed over to the Dark Ages and woolies are abound. It’s been awhile since I’ve had some notes to write, so I implore you all to please consider dropping me a note! I have a couple of updates for you all in terms of class notes.

Jackson Castleberry kindly wrote in to let me know that he is still in Atlanta, and the happy couple recently welcomed their second child, Hollis Evelyne, into the world in April 2015. Jackson switched roles at Google to join Google Fiber and oversee partnerships with large national real estate clients. He is super excited and thrilled to be a part of a team that is helping reshape our technology backbone.

Jackson also keeps in touch with Jon Tibbs quite a bit and reported that Jon is doing great in Charleston working for Boeing.

For Dr. Marc Yelle, life has been quite busy.

He finished his residency at Massachusetts General Hospital this July. He completed his board exams and packed up to move back to North Carolina. There, Marc started his acute pain and regional anesthesia fellowship at Wake Forest University in August. It has been a big fall for the family! Marc noted, “Our twins were born Oct. 8. Lucy, Parker and Gray are doing great.

I [recently] found out that I matched at Duke next year for a chronic pain fellowship. That is the end. No more training. Life is good. We are exhausted and as happy as can be!”

Send me your notes! We are lacking in terms of updates! I know many of us keep in touch

Class of 2002: Jackson Castleberry, left, at Googleplex in Mountain View, California. Mike Purdy ’99 and Bill Berry ’92 are on the legal team with Google and working with Jackson.

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online, especially through Facebook and such, but it would be great to be able to provide your updates to our BRs overseas and such who may have limited online access. I hope you all have a wonderful winter season, happy holidays and best wishes for 2016!

In the spirit, Salmaan

’03

William Talley V

Well, BRs, by the time you’re reading this we will have already welcomed in 2016 and said goodbye to 2015. One day, I’ll get used to writing something that’s going to be read three months down the road. Since our last set of notes – which was written in May 2015 – our class has had some major stories occur, so I’ll just dive right into them.

The first occurred May 31, 2015, when John Bocek crushed the record for pullups in a 24hour period! John did 5,801 pullups in a 24hour period, which many of us saw via the live YouTube feed. The previous record was 5,101. John’s record setting accomplishment was certified by Guinness World Records June 3, 2015. Following up this performance, John pulled off another great accomplishment by getting engaged to Miss Stephanie Brown, another accomplished athlete. Congratulations to both John and Stephanie!

The second major announcement came in July 2015 when Lara Tyler Chambers was named to the Board of Visitors at VMI. I dare

Class of 2003: Derek Overstreet’s daughter, Abby, and son, Seth, ready to go trick-or-treating.

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Class Notes

Class of 2003: Patrick Schaerrer climbed to the summit of Mount Blanc in September 2015.

Class of 2003: John Bocek set the Guinness World Record for most pullups in 24 hours by doing 5,801 May 31, 2015.

say that Lara must be one of the youngest members ever named to the BOV in its history. She followed that announcement up a few months later when she and Stuart announced that they were expecting their second child, a son, due in March 2016. Congratulations Lara and Stuart!

I could stop there and clearly you can see that the Class of ’03 is being heard from, but that wouldn’t begin to tell half of what’s going on within the class ranks.

David Burdette and his wife, Blair, welcomed their second son, William Hunter Burdette, March 27, 2015. It’s my understanding that Hunter is the most laid back, happy baby in history!

Derek and Kelly Overstreet welcomed a son, Seth, June 30, 2015. Seth is being looked after well by his big sister, Abby.

Brandon Matthews and his wife, Audrey, welcomed a son, Wyatt Louis Matthews, into the world Sept. 3, 2015. I know Brandon and Audrey are doing well, and little Wyatt is keeping them on their toes.

Joe and Amy Voorhees welcomed a daughter, Autumn Lehua Voorhees, into the world Oct. 26, 2015. Autumn was welcomed not only

by Joe and Amy but also by two older sisters, Avery (5) and Jocelyn (3, I think).

Phil and Angee Kerns welcomed a daughter, Siena Rae Kerns, Sept. 30, 2015. Phil and Angee report that they’re doing well, and Chiara (2) is enjoying the role of big sister.

Last but not least, Andy and Chelsey Biesterveld announced that they are expecting their second child, due in February 2016 (may be here already).

Speaking of expanding the ’03 family, I know

Class of 2003: Jim Hitch and Summer Teal Simpson were married Oct. 11, 2015. In attendance were Kyle Haire and Josh Gonzales.

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that Jimmy Hitch got “hitched” to Miss Summer Teal Simpson Oct. 11, 2015. In attendance at the wedding to celebrate the nuptials were Kyle and Juli Haire and Josh Gonzales.

Brian Andrew and Ashlie (sorry don’t know maiden name) were married June 7, 2015. In attendance were Craig Blackwood and Lars Wagner. It’s been awhile since I’ve spoken with Brian, but based on what I can tell from Facebook, life is well out in sunny California.

In other news, John Noonan and his wife have moved down to Miami, Florida. Per John’s wedding photos last year, he’s continuing to bring back the trend of Bermuda shorts while rolling with the top down AIA Beach Front Avenue!

While I’ve not had a chance to make it to any football games at the Institute this fall, I know that Taylor Goodall was up there for the one, and Chaz Wagner has made a few visits. Phil Hampton and his crew and T.J. Claytor and his family have been able to get up for a game, as well.

Patrick Schaerrer made it to the summit of Mount Blanc in September. Mount Blanc is the highest mountain in the Alps and is ranked 11th in the world in topographic prominence.

Will Gentry climbed to the summit of Mount Whitney Oct. 12, 2015, and has been posting pictures on Facebook of his numerous climbs in the western part of the U.S. I ran into Adam Britt and his daughter, Caroline, at a Subway restaurant back in June. They were on their way home from the pool while we were on our way to drop Savannah off at camp. All was well with him and Suzanne, and they were enjoying the hectic life with three

Class of 2003: Brian and Ashlie Andrew were married June 7, 2015.

In attendance were Craig Blackwood and Lars Wagner.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes kids. I think he was also able to catch up with Willie Hale and Chris Walsh in Lexington for a football game in October.

Well, folks, that’s about it for now. Keep sending me updates, photos and anything else you want, as it’s all appreciated. I hope everyone has a great start to 2016!

Rah Virginia Mil! ’03, ’03, ’03!

’04

Scott E. Campbell

C. Justin Roberts

past March, and Ryan started a new assignment in the National Guard this past July assigned to Special Operations Command. Congratulations to both of you!

Jason Boone and his wife, Deanna Boone, became parents Oct.28. Lillian Teresa weighed in at 7 lbs., 1 oz. and was 19.75 inches long.

The family is settled in St. Augustine, Florida, and doing well!

Brent Banks and his wife, Natalie Banks, decided to be parents for Halloween this year.

Landon William Banks was born weighing in at 6 lbs., 11 oz. and was 19.5 inches tall.

John Ginder and Drew Harden teamed up to run the fourth annual Oktoberfest Triathlon at Cross Creek Ranch in Texas Oct. 11.

The Richmond Rox Triathlons were held Oct. 4 here in Virginia. I finished the Olympic distance aquabike, which turned into a time trial compliments of Hurricane Joaquin. The James River was approaching flood stage at the

Class of 2004: Josh Montero and his daughter, Anna, after the Marine Corps Marathon Oct. 25, 2015.

We’ve done it again: We got married, made babies and some pulled off some pretty incredible feats in general!

James Volosin and his wife, Kristen Volosin, became parents for the first time in June. Annabeth is doing well. The family has been living in Glynco, Georgia, since James started the NCIS Special Agent Basic Academy. He graduated Nov. 19, 2015. The family will be heading to his first duty station in Ventura, California. Jake Reich has also been in Glynco attending the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Class of 2004: The Koniaks with the VMI collective were, from left, Explosives National Academy.

Rory Miller, Chris Buchness ’98, Jeff Van Cleave, Nicole Knoiak, J.B. Rosson and his wife, Summer Ryan Koniak, Harley Jennings, Stacy Rostorfer, Chip Satterlee, Rosson, welcomed their son, Bryan John McGrady ’01 and Mark Searles ’06.

Thomas to the world June 20.

Bob Downey and his wife, Cristin Downey, welcomed their third son to the world in July. The family is doing well!

Ryan Koniak and Nicole Fusco were married Oct. 10, 2015, in front of friends and family at the George Washington Masonic Memorial in Alexandria, Virginia. The reception that followed took place at the Officer’s Club at Fort Myer in Arlington, Virginia. The ceremony was officiated by Chaplain Chip SatterClass of 2004: The Koniaks approaching their saber arch after lee. Ryan and Nicole bought a new the ceremony. home in Gainesville, Virginia, this

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time of the race, but it was the only race that wasn’t canceled anywhere on the East Coast that weekend.

The invite is open for an impromptu class reunion at a tri sometime in 2016. Andy Harris is planning to join John, Drew and me for the next one. (Date and location to follow.)

Bree Guiterman is now the executive officer for the Navy Reserve Surflant Readiness Detachment C in Norfolk, Virginia. On the civilian side of life, Bree has her real estate license in anticipation of a career change.

Josh Montero ran this year’s Marine Corps Marathon. He finished in an impressive 4:27:24! Congratulations!

Clark Laster has a new job; he is now teaching special education at Middlesex High School and working as a manager at Bethpage Camp Resort. In May, Laster received his master’s in education from Mary Baldwin College. He currently lives in Wake, Virginia, with his wife, Erin, and his two kids, Sarah and Sawyer.

According to a Facebook post from Erin at the end of August, “Clark has a summer habit of growing his

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Class Notes head tour with HSC-25. Brent and hair out and looking like the dishis wife have moved back to San tant relative of a chia pet. For the Diego for his department head tour last five summers, he has been the with HSC-14. Brent also mentioned pool manager at Bethpage Camprunning into Joe Montagna at a Resort. The lifeguards are mostly helicopter convention earlier this late high school and college kids year, and he, too, is doing well! Joe who end up being older siblings for is currently in Arlington, Virginia, our kids. Those kids are the reason completing a three month fellowClark keeps with it every year. They walk ‘as a family’ after shifts to the ship with the Defense Advanced lifeguard parking area. They say, ‘I Research Projects Agency. love you,’ which always starts as a If I missed your update, I apolojoke but ends up being heartfelt. We gize. I tried pulling what I could do everything we can to help them. remember from Facebook, but I Sometimes one will live with us for haven’t received any updates this the summer. Sometimes we are their time around.

Class of 2004: Drew Hardin and John Ginder after finishing the free therapy. Sometimes they are 4th Annual Oktoberfest Triathlon at Cross Creek Ranch.

Take care! Be safe and keep in ours. It’s a great reciprocal relationtouch!

Scott Campbell ship. They’re just a few more of our extended $500, he would shave his head. My dad gave $50 as soon as that announcement was made.

Bethpage family.

“This summer, one of Clark’s guards was Plenty of others put in no less than $20 – some Tom Hardinge $100 or more. That night, these kids showed having some back pain that didn’t seem normal. About mid-season, Austin Weiner what extended family does for one of their own found out he has leukemia. He is 16. We and raised $2,000 for their friend and co-workwere heartbroken. Not only did Clark lose an er. I’m proud of them.”

Gary Cutler wrote from Wiesbaden, Geramazing and reliable kid as a lifeguard, we Timothy Johnson know this kid whose life has suddenly and irmany, to say that all is well. He had the chance revocably changed. Austin has been strong. to see a few BRs during his time in Europe. He This past Saturday was the annual Bethpage met up with Ryan Thiel in Izmir, Turkey, back crab feast, where the lifeguards act as the wait- in September. Matt Sanders came to visit for Brother Rats, the Rugby World Cup 2015 in London. Erin staff and are able to collect tips. This year, the I hope you all had safe travels back from the guards wanted to give their tips to Austin. To and the girls are doing well, and they’re lookhelp, Clark promised them that if they raised ing forward to another great Christmas Market Institute and have recovered from one great weekend. It was great to catch up with so many season. of you over the course of the weekend’s events, Jim Bean is officially a graduate of the Command and General Staff College at Fort Leav- even if it was brief. As I spoke with a brother enworth, Kansas. His next assignment will be rat recently, I believe he summed up everyone’s at Fort Bragg, where he will deploy to Iraq with feelings when he said, “I wish the time wasn’t the 82nd Airborne Division Headquarters. so short.” Certainly, it seemed like the moment Kim was working with John Collier ’09 for a I checked into the hotel Thursday night and short time before John’s return to Fort Bragg the view of Lexington in my rearview Sunday afternoon were separated by mere seconds. As and hasn’t run into any other alumni since. the class assembled in barracks for Old Yells Jonathan Saburn passed his Command Qualification Board last month. He is finishing up following the parade, a wave of memories preparations for a 12-month deployment to swept over me of the time we lit the pillars of barracks on fire during a rat riot or the time Afghanistan starting in early December 2015. we set our woolies on fire and Jay Coleman Justin Roberts is expecting his second daughter around Nov. 20 and recently received a almost set himself ablaze, too. For one brief promotion within the Department of Veteran second, we were together again within the walls we hated so much so many years ago, but Affairs. this time, we were happy; yet we missed our Brent Banks wrote in to say that he was staClass of 2004: Clark Laster, post-shave, tioned in Guam with Keith Yull for about six days together as brother rats. While graduation with the check – $2,004.04! months. Keith is doing well on his department meant freedom and new lives, it meant leaving

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VMI Alumni Review

From left, front row: Michael Tittermary, Wells Griffith, Greg Van Pelt, Jay Coleman, Mark Lenzi, Will Deshazor, Tim Johnson, Josh Simulcik, Justin Favreau, Sam Stephens, Chris Perry, Brad Miller and Gabby Arraiz. Row 2: Colin Alstad, Ken Cooper, Chris White, Jason Downs, Ben King, Sean Matson, Will Ray, Ian Dunlap, Ben Melton, Conor Heely, Corey Englehard, Jamaal Stafford, Mark Lloyd, Josh Lyles, Adam Rouse and Mildred Cooper.

Row 3: Robert Oaks, Tony Boone, Justin Fallin, Lucas Moore, James White, Lev Pobirsky, Sam Johnson, Ted Henderson, Paul Bryan, Matt Kurz, Charles Ehnot, Tom Ferrara, Jeff Durham, James Shambley, Eric Kaltrider, Greg Staat, Garrett Brickner and Logan Manning. Row 4: Ben King, Alex Correll, Nick Taran, Doug Aloisio, Mark Conley, John Johnson, Tom Hardinge, Travis Hord, Shore Stokes, Felix Guerra, Shelby Sears, Dan Spanu, Aaron Thatcher and Jonathan Vaughan. Row 5: Andrew Gordon, Gerrid Gall, John Leacock, Lawton Way, Jeremy Ward, Derek Rankin, Sean Moore, Chris Johnson, Cody Grey, Doug MacDonald, Chase Porter, Jim Driggs and Ty Denby. (Editor’s Note: Caption provided by class agent.)

Class Notes

10th Reunion – Oct. 10-11, 2015

The Class of 2005

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Class Notes 1.

3.

2.

4.

5.

6.

Class of 2005 1. The Class of 2005 looked up and eagerly awaited Ben King to lead them in Old Yells following the reunion parade Oct. 10.

2. Class Agent Timothy Johnson said of this photo, “Who wore it better?

Derek Rankin and Andy Miller recreated a shot before the class dinner taken during guard mount in fall 2004.”

7.

3. Derek Rankin and Conor Heely posted the Class of 2005 colors before the reunion parade Oct. 10.

4. From left, Derek Rankin, Andy Miller, Conor Heely and Cory Engelhard met up for Friday’s parade before the class dinner Oct. 9, 2015.

5. Andy Miller, Jason Reinitz, Ben Melton, Derek Rankin, Jay Coleman, Sam Stephens, Greg Van Pelt, Rob Oaks and Will DeShazor showed off their VMI pride before the reunion parade Oct. 10.

6. From left, Chris White, Andy Miller, Derek Rankin and Jason Reintiz reminisced about their days in the cadet gray following the reunion parade Oct.10.

7. Class Agent Timothy Johnson said of this photo, “Ben King, Ian Dunlap and Tim Johnson led the class in an Old Yell for the best class in barracks – 2005!”

8.

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8. From left, Jeff Smith, Jimmer Kingsley, Wells Griffith, Derek Rankin, Jim Driggs and Tom Innes caught up at the class dinner Oct. 9.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes each other and having to accept distance and in- Ben Melton summed it up best when he said, “I Conroy imitation and laud the glories of VMI frequent visits as the new normal. Before I stepped always thought life would be great as an alumnus and the Class of 2005, I understand that many down from the sentinel box, I looked around for a and that we’d spend many days and nights togeth- of you aren’t here for that and are looking for second just hoping to transport back in time for a er reminiscing about our time together. We would some updates. Many were in attendance at the bit and see the beautiful gray brotherhood assem- meet wonderful spouses, raise families together, reunion, and I heard many wonderful things bled – throwing baseball in the courtyard, form- and grow old together and have a blast doing it, that are going on in the lives of our class, but due ing up for parade, shooting the breeze at the Sally but life had a funny way of spreading us across to the hectic nature of the weekend and the imPort or running like the devil for a POV and a free the world in ways I never thought possible.” His bibing of several adult beverages, my recollection ride up to a glorious gray box James Madison sentiment captured the way I feel most days; frus- of updates may not be as accurate as described University weekend. Yet these were just visions trated and mired in a world of mediocrity and or befitting their due. I do apologize for the lack forever sealed in my memory to make me smile dishonesty, I stare at my classroom door hoping of notes in the fourth edition of the 2015 Alumni or laugh on a hard day. Sure, brother rats proudly one of you walks in to help me set the world back Review, but with the preparations for the reunion sauntered around barracks showing and the fundraising campaign taking their wives and girlfriends old rooms place, I never received any updates and stomping grounds and regaling and could not find the time to write an them of stories about the legendary entry for that edition. As usual, there Class of 2005. We laughed, we ate, we aren’t too many actual submitted updrank and we shared the same stories dates, so I’ll start with those and give a again and again, perhaps told from a recap of the reunion. different perspective or the same way Derek Rankin sent word that Chris it was before, because it was just that White married Miss Maria Reggi in funny. As we tailgated from the porch Berryville, Virginia, Oct. 31, 2015. Ken on Moody Hall well into the evening, Cooper and Derek were groomsmen our jovial guard post overlooking post for the event, and Derek had the duty was just one more opportunity to of best man. They had “a helluva good hang on to a great weekend we knew time, enjoyed copious amounts of was slowly slipping away. We would bourbon and played multiple rounds regroup later that evening in town, but of the famous name game.” As if the as the minutes of the evening slowly boys had any choice! Rumor has it slid off the clock, so did brother rats they held the bachelor party in Austin, as they said final goodbyes and made Texas, and rocked out to the always their way back to the hotels before immortal songs of Van Halen. Derek crossing back into their normal lives. recently was promoted to major. He As I walked around the portico of is currently living in New Braunfels, Moody Sunday afternoon, the final- Class of 2005: Ken Cooper, Chris White and Derek Rankin in Texas, and flying a desk at Randolph front of a VMI flag at Chris White’s wedding Oct. 31, 2015, in Air Force Base doing the good Lord’s ity of the weekend struck me. Life at Berryville, Virginia. work ... giving people assignments. the Institute had returned to normal.

Unfortunately, Kirk Stokes was unable to make Everyone had gone home, the signs of the pre- on its pedestal. While life at VMI may have been vious days’ festivities had all been removed and tough and downright miserable at times, the Class the reunion, but he sent the following update of 2005 made it better. At least I can recall the from halfway across the globe: “This past May, I the Corps returned to its familiar ebb and flow of stature and character of you crowd of honorable finished my MBA in global finance at the Thunlife at the Mother I. For a minute, I felt jealous of the Corps and wished I could be in their shoes. I youths and know every day I step into the class- derbird School of Global Management. I have wish I could tell them not to want to get out of room that I have your images firmly ensconced since returned to Singapore with Goldman Sachs, this place so desperately but to enjoy their time at the forefront of my mind. I do the best I can to where I’ll be working with their Private Wealth here and understand the great privilege it is to be carry on your legacy and let the world, no matter Management group. Looks like I’ll be spending considered a brother rat. While life beyond the how small my audience may be; that I count my- most of my time between Singapore and Indonegates of post has certainly had many great joys self as one of the proud few of the Class of 2005. sia. No wife. No dog. I’m excited about the new and experiences, it carries with it a certain bitter- And, it’s in these gatherings – no matter how reg- job and future opportunities. In addition, I was sweetness. It’s during my highest highs and lowest ular their occurring – that I find myself renewed able to have dinner with Tsai yesterday here in Singapore. He will also not be able to make it to lows that I wish I could walk a room down and and energized. I know that as I look down on that share them with you guys, but I can’t. Distance, big hunk of gold inscribed with the beautiful ap- the reunion, but we had a great time sharing a few stories and thinking about you guys. He and I are life and responsibilities keep us from each other pellation “05” that I carry you with me. in ways we couldn’t understand back then. I think While I could continue to do my best Pat planning on meeting for a beer next weekend to

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Class Notes salute you guys back home! I might even see if Austin Cam can come down from Hong Kong...”

In August, I had the opportunity to head down to Charleston, South Carolina, to get some beach time in and hang out with Chris Johnson. The main reason for the trip was to celebrate the 30th birthday of his girlfriend, Taylor, but being the eternal romantic, Chris stepped up his game and used the opportunity to propose to Taylor.

Of course, she said yes (who wouldn’t say yes to a beautiful man such as Chris) and the two are planning a wedding in May 2016. Chris just finished up his pediatric orthopedic surgery rotation at Scottish Rite Children’s hospital in Sandy Springs, Georgia. He has about a year left with his residency and will split time between Columbia, South Carolina, and his home station, Eisenhower Army Medical Center, at Fort Stewart in August, Georgia. When he completes his residency, he hopes to start an orthopedic surgery fellowship. Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center in Richmond is at the top of his list, so if you know anyone over there, put in a good word. It would be great to have Chris in the Holy City for at least two years.

Ben Melton recently separated from the Army.

He had been slotted to head to Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, for Command Staff College, but had grown tired of the constant moving and the strains it put on his family. He’s hoping to enroll in dental school in the fall of 2016 and is currently taking the required undergraduate prerequisites at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville, Tennessee. He and Courtney live in Nashville, Tennessee, with their wild and wonderful 2-year-old son, Preston.

Brandon Wheeler could not make the reunion due to business in Eastern Europe and the Middle East, but he sends his regards to the class.

Chris Perry continues to work at VMI in the Commandant’s office. He recently married Miss Ashley Harris Aug. 1, 2015, in Lexington, Virginia. Hopefully, this brings out the soft side of Chris we all love and know to the Corps of Cadets ... (I’m still giving hay downs with your authorization.)

Tim Reimann is currently stationed in Okinawa with the Marine Corps and sends his best to the ’05 crew.

Lt. Col. Wiggers couldn’t make the reunion but wanted me to relay the following to you all: “I want to wish you and your families all the best on this very special reunion weekend. I regret

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that Betsy and I cannot attend and share in the wonderful memories and friendships; we are hoping for the 15th. I hope each and every one of you know how special you are to me and how incredibly proud I am to be one of your brother rats! You are family, and I sincerely hope all of you have a fantastic weekend! Semper Fi and Rah Virginia Mil!” Titus Green couldn’t make the trip down to Lexington, either, as his son decided to make a late appearance. Congratulations, Titus!

Ryan Murphy found himself another victim of the machine that is the Army. He is currently stationed at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, attending the Army Command Staff College. He and his wife added a son, Callum Alexander, to their clan in early 2015. Older sister Rowan is quite happy with the addition.

Henry Hak sends his regards from Enterprise, Alabama, where he is with the Army as a warrant officer flying helos.

As for the reunion weekend, those in attendance can attest to the great time had. On Friday morning, a group of 20 or so of us headed to the Lexington Golf & Country Club for a round of 18. Despite a few bad drives, captain’s choice shot selection made the round move a little faster, and the beers helped, too. As Rich Litwin holed out on 18 from bunker below the hole, we knew the weekend would be a great one.

After cleaning up from golf, we reconvened at the Marshall Leadership Hall for a cocktail hour and class dinner. The keynote speaker was me, and I managed to say a few poignant things despite some of my tangents. Everyone had a great time and I’m pretty sure the bar had to close to get us to move out. After dinner, we headed down to the Palms, where, for once, they were excited to see us. Having heard the fundraising total update, Alex Correll and I used the opportunity to put the screws on a few guys to get our fundraising goal.

My apologies go out to the wives of Sam Johnson, Ben King, Ryan King and Jay Coleman and the ladies of Jarod Wheeler. Thanks to your generous donations, we were able to meet our goal and make the Institute a better place. What we might have done is limited your ladies’ abilities to purchase the extra niceties of domestic life ... my bad. The next morning, we wiped the sleep from our eyes, showered off the previous night’s fun from our bodies and headed to the Institute for Saturday’s festivities. After holding the “bugle” a few times, we had our class picture, which should

be in these notes. Following the picture, there was a brief period for catching up, walking around post and tailgating. At 10:30 a.m. sharp, we took our seats on the review stand as the honored class of the weekend. Much to Lawton Way’s disappointment, I would not be announcing the parade. At the end of drill presentation, I was joined by Shore Stokes and Paul Bryan in presenting the class check. Thanks to the efforts of our fundraising committee (Shore Stokes, Ben Melton, Jon Proctor, Josh Sullivan, Travis Hord, Scarlett Collins, Will Paullette, Jeff Smith, Alex Correll and Kirk Stokes) and the generous donations and pledges of you all, we were able to raise $255,720.05. It was certainly humbling to present this check on your behalf to Gen. Peay ’62 and VMI and to take review that day. After Indian Company (yes, India Company) passed the reviewing stand, we took our places in the column and made our way into barracks. After some confusing Old Yells from the younger classes and a hilarious Old Yell from the Class of 2000, Ben King, Ian Dunlap and I took our places atop the sentinel box to lead the class in Old Yells. The hairs on my neck still stand up when I think of the view I had that day. After Old Yells, we made our way to Moody Hall for a class tailgate courtesy of CHEFS Catering. After some initial confusion surrounding some kegs, I was able to get the beer flowing with the help of Ian Foley and Stewart Wilkinson ’12. Once everyone had their fill, we made our way down to Alumni Memorial Field to see the Keydets take on the

Class of 2005: Miss Ashley Harris married Chris Perry Aug. 1, 2015, in Lexington, Virginia.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Bulldogs of Samford University. I wish I could say husbands and wives that try to raise your families things turned out in our favor, but as many of us up in the right way in an ever-changing world. You are the ambassadors to the world that a small, libhave come to accept, the scoreboard does not always look favorably on the Flying Squadron. Even eral arts school in the valley of the Shenandoah though the postgame held no scheduled events, produces people that the world needs. Telling your the ’05 guys bring the party with them. With a few stories has been the experience of a lifetime. Howkegs still breathing life, we spent several hours on ever, the greatest stories in the world aren’t told by the grass of the Parade Ground and the porch of the same person. They need new perspectives and Moody drinking beers and catching up. Thanks to new words. With that in mind, moving forward I the quick thinking of Shore Stokes, we secured am going to take a step back from my role with some Domino’s pizza and kept the party going. the class notes. Graciously, Tom Hardinge has Once the beer had been finished and the pizzas stepped up and will be writing the notes. I will be eaten, we made our way into the always unpredictsliding into the role of fundraising and social coorable Lexington night. Regrouping at Macado’s, dinator /class agent. Due to work commitments the Class of 2005 made its presence known. I reand a potential move, Will Ray will be reprising member distinctly two hipster minks walking into himself of the aforementioned class agent duties.

Class of 2006: Wilson Nance on a misthe bar, seeing us and saying, “This seems to be After eight years of compiling the notes and plansion in Africa. ning two reunions, I needed a break to recharge a bit of a VMI crowd. We better go.” While the evening was enjoyable and quite memorable in and to work on a different aspect of our lives as Christmas furlough to the final stretch before and of itself, the antics of Lawton Way, a bottle of alumni. For the February 2016 submission date, starbursting to the paths that would eventually silly string and a certain prank pulled on Will Pauplease send your updates to Tom Hardinge at find us back here, reading these notes in anticipalette made the evening unbelievably hilarious. As HardingeTC@hotmail.com. This is not goodbye, tion of the year ahead. the clock inched its way toward midnight, we all but a see you soon.

In November, I spoke with Wilson Nance, who Well, that concludes the latest edition of the had just returned from a deployment to Africa. said our final goodbyes and hoped it wouldn’t be another five years before we could do this again. In notes. Please keep us updated of your goings on While there, he was attached with six other U.S. the words of Jeff Smith, “It was a great weekend, and let us know if we can help. Remember, we’re personnel to specific NATO Special Operations all in this together. Until next time... to say the least...”

Forces units. He may have been 2,600 miles away In the bonds, As I begin to conclude the notes, I wanted to from his boss in the States, but that didn’t stop Tim Johnson pass along one final word to the class. Over the him from running into Ben King ’05 and a few last eight years it has been my great privilege and other alumni in Niger. Funny, I ran into Ben Shawn Driver honor to write the notes. To hear of the wonderKing in a different random part of the world a ful events that occur in your lives year after year couple of years ago. Seems the more remote and is a great joy and I look forward to receiving your Spartan the conditions, the more VMI alumni emails. Sure, the work can be hard and frustrating, you find. Wilson lives in Sneads Ferry, North but I couldn’t imagine working for a greater group Carolina, with his wife, Jessica, and two children, Brother Rats, than you all. Telling your story and trying to capJaxon (4) and Lydia (1).

A new year is upon us, and not just any year. ture the true essence of what occurs can be a real Another one of our Devil Dogs and my rat challenge. The Class of 2005 is not a class that can Ten years ago, most of us were coming off roommate, Charlie Brennan, is a captain in U.S. be conveyed in five pages of size 12, Marine Corps Reserve working at Times New Roman font every quarCamp Lejeune as a contractor. When ter with an allotment of five 300 DPI I checked in with him in November, photos. It’s so much more than that. he and his wife were expecting their You are the newest generations of citifourth child. zen soldiers that will see our country I also spoke briefly with Kyle Madthrough the next two decades of conden. He and his wife are doing great flict. You are the lawyers in the courtand expecting a child in February. room arguing for justice to be served.

If you’re like me, you rarely make it You are the titans of industry that are back to Lexington to see how much making the next great business deal. it’s changed and how it’s actually You are the doctors that work tirelessly stayed the same. I’m sure the same for your patients and promoting the will be true for all of us in October. sanctity of life. You are the American Class of 2006: Shawn Driver, far right, and two of his crews going I apologize for the brevity of these out over the Black Sea. ideal. You are the fathers, mothers, notes, but at the time of writing, I’m

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Class Notes

Class of 2006: Ben King ’05 and Wilson Nance. consumed with redeploying my company from our outstation on the Black Sea. We’re off to a good start laying the foundation for this fall’s reunion. We’ve still got a lot to do, but with all of your help, we can make this a truly memorable event. I’m looking forward to seeing what this year brings you and wish you all the best, wherever you may end up.

Shawn (Editor’s Note: In the 2015-Issue 4 Review, the captions for the photo of Scott and Cara Bartholomew (pg 141) and the photo of John Diehl’s wedding (pg 140) were swapped. The caption for the wedding photo on page 140 should have read, “At John Diehl’s wedding were Adam Diehl ’15, Andrew Upshaw, Troy Nold ’07, Wes Haynes ’07, John Diehl, Mary Boyce Hicks (the bride), Brad Bascope, John Shillingburg and Marc Castillo. Not pictured and MIA is John Kite ’05.” The wedding photo on pg 141 should have been captioned, “Scott and Cara Bartholomew, center.” We apologize for this error.)

’07

Sally Bushore

Happy winter! I hope everyone is doing well.

Erin Saucier informed me that she recently moved to Dayton, Ohio, with her family and

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that she ran into Evan Hanks. She also wrote that she and her husband welcomed a son into the world Dec. 17, 2014. Congratulations, Erin!

Matt Saccone wrote me a nice email a couple of months ago. He said that he and his wife recently welcomed a daughter, Arianna Elizabeth, and he can’t believe how the time is flying.

He was also able to spend some time with his

brother, Nick Saccone ’06, recently at a Pittsburgh Steelers game after Nick returned from a deployment. Matt said that Tom Pepka and his wife, Emily, stopped for a visit recently with their four children. They are living in Ohio, and Tom is still in the Air Force. Matt also managed to visit with Mike Peranski when the two of them enjoyed a Luke Bryan concert together.

He wrote that Mike is working full time and pursuing a graduate degree simultaneously.

Matt also wanted to pass on that James Sandman is now living in Cleveland, Ohio, and not Newport News, Virginia. Matt says he plans on visiting James and his wife, Sherry, in the near future.

Congratulations to Rosemary and Wes Hopkins and on the birth of their daughter, Elizabeth Emily Hopkins! She was born Sept. 11, 2015, in Austin, Texas.

Matt Kania just graduated from the Air Force Institute of Technology with a master’s in aeronautical engineering. He and his family moved to Naval Air Station Patuxent River, where Matt is assigned to the H-53 Program Office.

Corey Bafford PCS’d to Camp Lejeune in July and checked in with the 1st Battalion, 10th Marine Regiment. He took command of Charlie Battery in October and said that they planned to attend mountain warfare training in January, followed by training in Norway in the February-March timeframe.

Jake Willis married the new Mrs. Danielle Willis Sept. 5. David Metzler was his best man, and serving as groomsmen were Brad Beckner,

Class of 2007: Arianna Elizabeth Saccone, daughter of Matt Saccone.

Class of 2007: Erin Saucier with daughter Savannah and new son Cooper.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 2007: Matt Saccone and his brother, Nick Saccone ’06, enjoyed a Steelers game after Nick’s return from deployment.

Michael Moorman and Anthony Tolomeo ’06. Also in attendance were Vic Rosen, Josh Sullivan ’05 and Scott Snow ’77. Jake is in Roanoke working for Norfolk Southern. Brad is also in Roanoke, and Mike is in Richmond finishing his Master of Business Administration degree. Dave is in Harrisonburg working for Shenandoah Valley Electrical Cooperative. Vic and his wife recently purchased a home near Charlottesville, and Vic is working for Federated Insurance.

Hope everyone has a safe and wonderful holiday season!

In the bonds, Sally

’08

Robert Hill

By now, I trust you’ve had a wonderful holiday season and hopefully you’ve been able to avoid shoveling too much snow. First and foremost, I’d like to offer condolences to Brian Sain, as his father Todd Sain ’75, died after a long battle with cancer Oct. 16, 2015. Our prayers are with you, Brian, and your family.

Jonathon Schmidt said hello from Kabul, Afghanistan. He was serving as an inspector general adviser for the Afghanistan Ministry of Defense. While in Kabul, he ran into Shannon Smith ’09. When Jonathon returns stateside, he’ll be headed back to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to see his wife, Emily; daughter, Margaret; and son, Ethan. The photograph that Jonathon provided includes a VMI flag.

This flag displayed in Kabul is the same flag

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Class of 2007: Enjoying the party at Jake and Danielle Willis’ wedding, were, from left, David Metzler, Mike Moorman, Anthony Tolomeo ’06, Danielle, Jake, Vic Rosen and Brad Beckner.

that was flown at his parent’s house during his entire cadetship.

Jon Roland was recently returned from a tour of duty in Iraq. Jon was deployed with the 5-73 CAV, 3rd BCT, 82nd Airborne Division.

Jon was deployed with Lowell Patterson ’11, Patrick Sasai ’13 and Robert Dilley ’13. While in Iraq, they ran into Zachary Stark ’14. Zach was deployed with the 1-87 IN, 1st BCT, 10th Mountain Division.

Chip Chace checked in from Texas. Last year, Chip moved from Virginia to Austin, Texas, and became the dean of students at St. Michael’s Catholic Academy, and of all things, he is in charge of discipline. I guess you have had to be on the receiving end of it to know how to dole it out?

In addition to the discipline role, Chip is teaching history and coaching football. At the time of our communications, Chip’s football team was 4-3 and ranked No. 1 in their district. Chip is really enjoying his time in Austin and occasionally runs into “Dancin” Dave Feltes and the former Ms. Jessica Rheinlander. Speaking of Jessica, she was married Oct. 24 to Matthew Brynestad in Texas.

Congrats, Jess and Matt! Rick Goodwin and the former Ms. Kelly Burleson were married Sept. 26, 2015. The two celebrated their wedding with a honeymoon in Hawaii. Congrats, Rick and Kelly!

Chris Duane took a moment to say hello from Richmond. Chris is employed as a police officer with the city of Richmond. He is also working with John Douglas. They currently are attached to the Virginia State Police Fireman’s and Fugitives Task-Force. Stay safe out there! Jonathan Ostermann recently completed his master’s program. Jonathan completed a master’s in engineering management from Old Dominion University in fall 2015. Congrats, Jon!

This fall was a popular time to add to the 2008 family. Just down the street from Lauren and I, Ben Curle and wife Megan welcomed Rachel Beth Aug. 31.

Phillip Jones and wife Christine added John Francis Aug. 29 at 8 pounds, 2 ounces.

Christoph Lohr and wife Katharine welcomed Juergen Albert Sept. 25 at 14:53 hours. Juergen measured 20 inches and weighed 6 pounds, 7 ounces.

Brett Lucas and wife Erica welcomed son Colin James Sept. 26 at 23:43 hours. Colin weighed 7 pounds, 11 ounces.

A little earlier in the day on the 26th, David

Class of 2008: Jonathon Schmidt holding a VMI flag – flown at his parents’ house during his cadetship – in Kabul, Afghanistan, where he was serving as an inspector general advisor for the Afghanistan Ministry of Defense.

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Class Notes said that Carter should be returning Shedd and wife Megan expanded stateside in early November (so by the family to include Grayson Dathe time you are reading this, Carter vid at 02:57 hours. Grayson was an should be home). Cal said he is doeven 7 pounds and measured 19 and three-fourths inches long. ing well and melting in the swelterJared Weber and wife Briting days and nights. tany added to the family Sept. 28, Pete Saragnese and wife Arianne 2015. Genevieve Rhea was born at gave birth to their first child, Maverick Anthony Saragnese, who was 13:51 hours, tipping the scales at 7 born Aug. 23, 2015, at 03:19, weighpounds, 1 ounce and a length of 18 inches. Congrats to all the expanded ing in at 5 pounds, 15 ounces. Mom, families! dad and child are doing well.

In addition to the adding Rachel Grant McManus and wife Tiff Beth to the family, Ben Curle menwanted to announce the arrival of their daughter, Janalyn. She was tioned he switched jobs and is now born at 11:59 Aug. 4, 2015. Janalyn a project manager in the consumer Class of 2008: Officers Chris Duane, left, and John Douglas workdirected health care industry for ing together for the City of Richmond Police Department as part weighed in at 5 pounds, 7 ounces and was 16-and-a-half inches long.

ConnectYourCare. In addition to of the Virginia State Police Firearms and Fugitives Task-Force.

Grant told me that she will be a pohis job in the health care field, Ben is edition. Christoph is also serving as the local approaching his third year as a company comtential member of the matriculating Class of mander with the 1067th Transportation Com- chapter of the American Society of Plumbing 2037.

On Sept. 5, 2015, Kyle Johnson got marpany in the Pennsylvania National Guard. Ben Engineers’ legislative vice president. Congrats, ried to Courtney Blowers. The wedding was in hopes to finish a Master of Business Admin- Christoph.

While in Washington, D.C., I had the pleaCanton, Ohio, and was well attended by our istration degree in spring 2016. This fall, Ben sure of having dinner with John Sollock and had the chance to visit with the Cuttings in class. Barrett Luxhoj, Alex Oliver, Matt and New York. While visiting Nick Cutting, Sean his lovely wife, Nikki. It was good to see them, Roxy Hyatt, Graham Stolle, Rammy Barbari, and Lauren and I look forward to hosting and I rounded out the Keydet contingent at the Ruppert stopped by, as well.

Christoph Lohr also had the honor of being them shortly after VMI takes on Pennsylvania wedding. It was a great time, and we are all State University in basketball in Happy Valley. wishing the best for Kyle and Courtney. Here’s published in the Plumbing Engineer magazine with the cover story in the October 2015 Lauren and I also planned to make the trip to to many years together.

Colorado Springs, Colorado, for the wedding Speaking of weddings, Barrett Luxhoj also of Matt Mitchell. Matt and fiancée Arlene Raquel Cruz have set a date of Dec. 12, 2015.

Until next time...

’09

Class of 2008: Christoph and Katharine Lohr with son Juergen, born Sept. 25, 2015.

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Bradley Simpson

Brother Rats: I hope this edition of the Review finds you and your families well. It has been a crazy summer catching up with everyone.

In the last issue, I got notes from Thomas Duncan about his recent child’s birth. I got the notes but was unable to get the picture in the last issue. Again, Tom and Kathleen, congrats, and we are all really excited for the both of you.

I heard from Cal Murray at the end of the summer. Cal said that Carter Murray had been in the Persian Gulf since March on the USS Farragut, attached to the Theodore Roosevelt. Cal

Class of 2009: Barrett and Caroline Luxhoj at their wedding at the end of September 2015.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes being back in Lex Vegas. tied the knot at the end John is living in the Richof September. Barrett mond area and seems to married Caroline Stolle really enjoy it.

Sept. 26, 2015. Judging by the pictures, it was Randy Phillips was able also well attended by to come spend a few hours many Keydets. It looks with us Friday night, but like it was a beautiful unfortunately work pulled wedding; congrats again, him away for Saturday.

Barrett and Caroline. I He is living and working wish nothing but the best in the Covington, Virginia, for the both of you. area. He tells me he is doChris Ford and wife ing well for himself with a Claudia gave birth to construction company he their first child, Anne Class of 2009: Barrett and Caroline Luxhoj with the VMI crew at their wedding. owns. Randy, you work Reagan Eleanor Ford, too much, bro. Just saying!

Sept. 9, 2015, at 1:59 p.m. She weighed in at 7 pounds and was 20 inches long.

A slew of people came up for the football game Vincent Abruzzese has been admitted to the Saturday, and none other than Adam Aikens surbar in Virginia and has entered active duty with prised us, along with his wife, Laura, and baby the Air Force. He also completed Judge Advogirl, Olivia. Adam is doing well. He just took a cate Staff Officer’s Course, officially making job in the Marine Corps special operations comhim an assistant staff judge advocate in the munity and is enjoying being a father. I think being Air Force JAG Corps. Vincent is currently at a dad is his biggest accomplishment. It was great the Chief of Legal Assistance at Barksdale Air catching up, dude!

Force Base in Louisiana. He said he was exLogan Swanson surprised everyone ... not becited to be finally in the service. cause he showed up, but because the Army made Well, that about does it for this round of a man out of him! He is jacked now and has a notes. As always, it was great hearing from deeper voice than L-Train! (Laugh out loud.) Afeveryone who got in touch with me this go ter the Army, Logan found a job in defense conaround. As always, you stay classy, ’09. tracting and seems to really enjoy it. Lay off the supplements, bro!

Cody Hennelly John Winoker and his family graced us with their presence, as well. He also became a father not long ago to a handsome little boy. Do I hear “VMI 2033+3” chants in the future? I hope so!

Kelly Vickery made it down for the entire weekClass of 2009: Carter Murray on board Well, well, well ... Can you all believe that the end and, from what I gather, had a blast! She is the USS Farragut during his recent 5th Reunion has come and gone already?! I must in the Washington, D.C., area working for a three deployment. say, it is bittersweet. I got a chance to reconnect letter agency ... can’t say which, or else she would with so many of you, but it is bitter to know it canhave to kill me – seriously! not happen every day or week. For those of you Lucas Whitman graduated the “I” this past year who couldn’t make it, we thought of you often and is now down in the Roanoke area as a police throughout the weekend and hope y’all can make officer. I hear he and Jason Morgan get together the next one! Enough of this, let’s get to the good every so often and b*!&% about me ... At least stuff: You guys and gals! they are still talking about me! (Laugh out loud.)

This edition, I am going to try and cover some Jason is down in Roanoke as a law clerk. He people who we have not heard from in a while. passed the bar in the fall and should start practicI apologize if I leave you out; it was a very busy ing soon! Good luck to both of you guys; sorry I weekend, and I am old now and cannot remember can’t join in on the whiskey nights! everything!

A name we haven’t heard in years is none other Class of 2009: Thomas Duncan’s newA couple BRs that surprised us early on in the than Budge Hunter XXVI! (I can’t recall what born child, Campbell, playing with his weekend were Tim Maypray and John Pope. Tim number he is in his family, but it is something big brother. is now coaching at VMI and is really enjoying ridiculous like the 26th.) I actually didn’t get to

’10

2016-Issue 1

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Present at the reunion were: Evan J. Aguirre, Rory P. Alfree, Matthew L. Allen, Robert L. Allen III, Paul S. Bailey Jr., Charles M. Barnett, Christine M. Beach, Silas A. Belt II, Jonathan C. Bisulca, Ian M. Black, Brian M. Bopp, Eric S. Brigham, Donte D. Brown, Edward C. Burton III, Stephen R. Cauley, William R. Correll, Jacob T. Cox, Kevin M. Cox, John M. Curtis, Christopher P. Czupryna, Marjorie Davis, Scott J. Delo, Caleb C. Dixon, John M. Duffy, Andrew L. Faulconer, Joshua L. Favaro, Robert L. Fendley, Justin T. Ferrell, Gregory F. Fiasconaro, Andrew D. Fleenor, Shawn A. Fox, Garland Gray III, James G. Griffith, Sarah W. Gunter, Rachel E. Halnon, James A. Hartzell, Cody J. Hennelly, Robert L. Hindle Jr., Richard M. Hozik, Austin L. Hunt, Charles M. Hunter V, Ross W. Hussmann, Preston M. Landt, Jared C. Lawson, Christopher M.P. Leach, Chien Lin, Nicholas J. Lizotte, Scott T. MacDonald, Jake D. Maier, Christopher R. Martin, John S. Maurice, Matthew W. Mawyer, Timothy W. Maypray II, Dogucan Mazicioglu, Racheal T. McElligott, Joshua B. McPherson, Justin S. Minter, Corey T. Morgan, Jason D. Morgan, Robert P. Morris, William R. Orndorff III, Brandon A. Page, Daniel G. Parker, Asia T. Pastor, David M. Phillips, Randy O. Phillips, Gerald B. Popko, Michael J. Purpura, Jacob A. Robertson, Even T. Rogers, Matthew H. Sagar, Matthew R. Satterwhite, Tanner H. Sewell, Joseph M. Simmers, Bingley B. Squire, Jared E. Starin, Robert T. Stockman III, Emerson T. Suttenfield, Jorge Tellez, Fletcher S. Thompson, Owen C. Thulin, Joshua K. Toomey, Kelly M. Vickery, Alexander M. Wade, Daniel L. Welsh, Leonard M. Weschler, Lucas M. Whitman, James Z. Williams, Jonathan N. Winoker, Paul J. Wojtas, Jonathan W. Wright and Nicholas A. Young.

Class Notes

5th Reunion – Oct. 10-11, 2015

The Class of 2010

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 1.

2.

4.

3.

7.

5.

Class of 2010 1. Rat roommates Cody Hennelly and Lucas Whitman at the class tailgate during the reunion.

2. From left, Mike Hozik, Garland Gray, Chris Leach, Brian Bopp, Patrick Wentzel, Alex Wade, Tanner Sewell and Bobby Morris during the Morris tailgate party.

6.

3. Class Agent Cody Hennelly said of this photo, “[The Class of] 2010’s class ring embodies everything we strive to be as citizen-soldiers and reminds us of the sacrifices made to allow us our freedom.” Photo courtesy Shawn Fox. 4. From left, Garland Gray, Shawn Fox and Jacob Robertson at the class dinner.

5. From left, Jared Lawson, Rob Allen, Rachael Toman (McElligott), Jacob Cox and Ross Hussmann posed for a minute outside of the class dinner.

6. Garland Gray and his fiancée, Valerie, along with Jacob Robertson and his wife, Brittany, at the 2010 class dinner.

7. From left, Steve and Leanne Kerr, Shawn Fox, Robert and Emily Stockman, and Jacob and Brittany Robertson outside of barracks after Old Yells.

8.

2016-Issue 1

8. Rachael Toman (McElligott), Kelly Vickery, Donte Brown and Dan Strausbaugh enjoyed some pre-dinner drinks at the Wingate.

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Class Notes

Class of 2010: Kyle and Chelsea Nickmard at their wedding ceremony in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Oct. 10, 2015. talk with him much, but he said he is doing well down in North Carolina and is working in the family business. I am ecstatic that you could join us, dude; hopefully it will not be another five years before we get together.

Will Correll is another alumnus in the Charlotte, North Carolina, area. He is a construction supervisor for Rodgers Construction down there.

He and his wife, Emily, enjoy the mixture of the city and country life, plus he gets to play Nintendo with Charlie Barnett almost every night! (I know because they send me snapchats regularly ...

Please stop, by the way! Laugh out loud).

A special thank you to our honored guests, Alumni Association second vice president Asa Page ’79 and his wife, Mrs. Karen Page; Col. Lucy Hurlbut (HBR); and Col. Marjorie Davis, for joining in celebrating our VMI heritage. The weekend would not have been the same without you!

Well that is going to do it for now. I think of all of you often; please, if I have not spoken to you in a while, reach out and let me know what you are doing! Till next time, remember, “For we are nothing without brotherhood.”

Cody

’11

Allen McCown

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 2011.

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Class of 2010: Kyle and his groomsmen from the Class of 2010 at the wedding reception. In attendance were Sloan Burns, Tim Howard, Justin Brinkman, Justin Ong, Dave Padgett, Brandon Stratz, Bill Feldmann, Lance Long, Paul Devalk, Damiso Alexander, Mike Johnson, Hugo Bustamante, Mike Louthan, Anthony Prioletti, Reid Sartori, Brian Molina, Dave Lottman, Hunter Naff, Julian Bowers ’11, Mario Scott ’11, John Sturgill ’11 and Chris Conte ’11.

’12

Bruce Howard

Brother Rats, First off, let me say that since the last edition of the Alumni Review, our class has suffered a great loss. As many of you know, we lost one of our very own this past September, Caroline Wortham.

As unfortunate of a circumstance as it is to lose one of our own, it shows the camaraderie that exists among the VMI community; we truly are a family that comes together when needed the most.

This care for one another was on full display based on the amount of support who attended Carrie’s memorial service. Carrie was a positive influence to us all and truly brought out the best in each person she encountered. I think what I will remember most is that she had such a contagious persona that if you spent any time with her, she made you want to be the best version of yourself possible. Carrie was truly a shining star in not only the VMI community, but also in life. I think I speak on behalf of the entire class when I say we are better men and women because of the impact Carrie Wortham will forever have on our lives. (Editor’s Note: Please

see page 6 for Carrie Wortham’s obituary.)

Since the last edition, we only had a few members of our class send in new updates. Jacob Inman recently started a new job with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office in North Carolina. Best of luck with the new career, Jacob.

Quinn Adams is getting married to Danielle Dwight in May 2016. Congrats on the engagement, and I’m looking forward to the pictures of

Class of 2012: Flowers sent on behalf of the Class of 2012 to the memorial service for Caroline Dawn Wortham.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the wedding with Justin, Ben and Ross.

In addition to the marriages listed Quinn is also graduating Washington above, I have had several updates from and Lee University law school and will the class: be starting a job with Hunton and WilBrice Scott is currently stationed at liams in Richmond.

Fort Sam Houston, Texas, at the Army I have to give a shoutout to my good Medical Department Basic Officer Leader Course for Medical Services friend and roommate, James Rivas, Corps. Both Dan Nice and Nathan who is engaged to Hillary Martinez Webster are attending the course with since this past October. Congratulations Brice, who mentioned, “It’s nice to to the both of you. have some BRs around to make the Also, congratulations to Spencer Wackelin, who married Kaitlyn Wal- Class of 2012: At a Washington Nationals baseball game at transition out here smoother.” Not too lace. Spencer and his wife were married Nationals Park Aug. 25, 2015, were, from left, as heads appear, long after Christmas, Brice will report Chase Worthington; Andrew Deal; Colin Miller ’11; Cory SpanOct. 21 in North Carolina. I wish you genberg ’13, the starting second baseman for the San Diego to Fort Riley, Kansas, with the 1st Infantry Division, 1st Armored Combat both a long and happy marriage.

Padres; and George Piccirilli ’12.

I appreciate everyone who sent in upTeam, 101st Brigade Support Battalion. dates, and thank you to everyone who has sent me the Class of 2015 group in an effort to have better He is very excited about this. Good luck to Brice his or her new addresses and personal informaaccess to everyone. I have had great feedback, and Scott, Dan Nice and Nathan Webster as they tion. I have updated all of the contact info sent my I hope those who wanted to send me an update move along with their careers as Army officers.

Clark Kirkpatrick will be going to China in way into the Alumni Association database. have been able to do so either through Facebook, November to teach English for a year in the city Until next time, email, phone or post. of Shenyang.

Bruce Brother Rat John Titus swears he sent me a carQuinn Ellis is working at the Washington Navy rier pigeon, but I have yet to receive it. I am doing Charles P. Jones my best to stay up on top of all avenues of com- Yard in Washington, D.C., doing bridge inspecmunication, so continue to reach out and keep tions for the Navy.

That is all the updates I have for this edition. the class updated!

Now for the good stuff: The following people Remember, as you all are getting married, moving on with post VMI education, and completing have been married (and notified me) since graduEditor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the ation. Be sure to congratulate your BRs. Josh your initial military training; please send me an Class of 2013. and Alexis (Wissinger) Aanderud were married update. You can email or call me at any time to May 18, 2015; Dylan and Anica Guthrie July 25, send some good news, or just catch up and chat.

As always, please spread the word about the 2015; and Brent and Casey Clark, July 18, 2015.

Samuel Guidry Alumni Review and the Class of 2015 Facebook I know there have been others who have gotten married, so please be sure to send me your page to your group of friends.

Whole damn team, anniversary date as well as your spouse’s name Johnny so I can update your information.

’13

’14

Taylor Floyd

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 2014. The class reunion photo appears on pg. 25 of this Review.

’15

Johnny McDonald

Brother Rats, As some of you may have noticed, I have created a Facebook account and have been posting to

2016-Issue 1

Class of 2015: VMI was represented at Alexis Wissinger’s wedding May 18, 2015. Alumni present were, from left, Katheryne Austin, Kristen Voss, Mary Schriver ’14, Sam Druen, Josh Aanderud (groom), Alexis Wissinger Aanderud (bride), Mackenzie Perkins, Logan Gower, Tatiana Wabrek, Killian Buckley, Cadet Joyce Zabala ’16, and Cadet Ethan Ciampaglio ’16. Also present but not pictured were Mark Esposito and Quinn Ellis.

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Class Notes

Baby Keydets

Baby Keydets

BOONE – a daughter, Lillian Teresa, to Deanna and Jason E. Boone ’04, Oct. 28, 2015.

LOHR – a son, Juergen Albert, to Katharine and Christoph Lohr ’08, Sept. 25, 2015.

DOWNEY – a son, Rowan Conri, to Cristin and Robert F. Downey III ’04, July 22, 2015.

LUCAS – a son, Colin James, to Erica and Brett J. Lucas ’08, Sept. 26, 2015.

ROSSON – a son, Bryan Thomas, to Summer and J.B. Rosson ’04, June 20, 2015.

VOLOSIN – a daughter, Annabeth, to Kristen and James P. Volosin ’04, June 13, 2015.

SHEDD – a son, Grayson David, to Megan and David Shedd ’08, Sept. 26, 2015.

WEBER – a daughter, Genevieve Rhea, to Brittany and Jared P. Weber ’08, Sept. 28, 2015.

Marriages

DUNCAN – a son, Eli James, to Emily and Brian E. Duncan ’05, Sept. 29, 2015.

MILLER – a daughter, Maxwell Nicely, to Joy and Bradley P. Miller ’05, July 15, 2015.

MURPHY – a son, Callum Alexander, to Rachel and Ryan A. Murphy ’05, April 10, 2015.

PROCTOR – a daughter, Catherine Elizabeth, to Christine and Jonathan A. Proctor ’05, Aug. 18, 2015.

SULLIVAN – a son, William Tucker, to Anna and Joshua C. Sullivan ’05, July 7, 2015.

CURLE – a daughter, Rachel Beth, to Megan and Benjamin A. Curle ’08, Aug. 31, 2015.

JONES – a son, John Francis, to Christine and Philip A. Jones ’08, Aug. 29, 2015.

PERRY – Ashley Harris to Christopher O. Perry ’05, Aug. 1, 2015.

WHITE – Maria Reggi to Chrisopher E. White ’05, Oct. 31, 2015.

BRYNESTAD – Jessica M. Rheinlander ’08 to Matthew Brynestad, Sept. 26, 2015.

GOODWIN – Kelly Burleson to Frederick D. Goodwin IV ’08, Sept. 26, 2015.

CLARK – Casey Burgess to Brent S. Clark ’15, July 18, 2015.

GUTHRIE – Anica Kees to Dylan M. Guthrie ’15, July 25, 2015.

WISSINGER – Alexis I. Wissinger ’15 to Josh Aanderud, May 18, 2015.

VMI’s 25 Most Senior Alumni According to the records of the VMI Alumni Association, the people listed below constitute the 25 senior alumni of the Institute.

Please contact the Alumni Review staff if any errors are noted.

158

William E. Cantrell ’926

Oct. 17, 1905

Henry B. Johnson ’38

Aug. 9, 1915

Richard D. Schmitz ’931

Feb. 24, 1908

Floyd S. Smith ’41

Sept. 7, 1916

Ernest C. Johnson ’929

May 19, 1908

Raymond W. Parks ’37

Oct. 6, 1916

Thomas M. Zeledon ’930

Dec. 21, 1908

William R. Landrum ’934

Dec. 3, 1910

James M. Witt ’39

Dec. 23, 1916

Emmett J. Heerdt ’934

Feb. 27, 1912

Ira N. Saxe ’39

Feb. 9, 1918

Richard H. McCormick ’934

Dec. 4, 1912

James L. Lennox ’40

March 23, 1918

George W. Meador ’35

Jan. 1, 1913

David R. Gaitskill ’40

April 9, 1918

James E. Kirk ’36

Oct. 25, 1913

Preston T. Syme ’41

April 13, 1918

Edwin T. Arnold ’35

Feb. 7, 1914

Donald E. Hillman ’40

Aug. 24, 1918

James C. Sherman ’35

March 31, 1914

B. Anthony Fisher ’40

Sept. 14, 1918

John A. Gialanella ’36

Aug. 28, 1914

William W. Middleton Jr. ’39

Sept. 20, 1918

John H. Divine III ’36

Nov. 13, 1914

Robert L. Spear ’41

Oct. 21, 1918

VMI Alumni Review

Provisional Appointments APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

Caleb N. Franklin Joseph Franklin Madison Reynolds

John E. Franklin ’90 John E. Franklin ’90 Robert A. Miller ’62

James E. Tulskie Jr. William W. White

Robert A. Miller Jr. ’89 Joseph J. Tulskie ’78 Mark W. Williams ’85

Father Father Greatgreat-uncle Cousin Uncle Uncle

2021 Christopher N. Gros ’94 John D. Fernandez ’93

Father Uncle

Michael J. Tulskie

Paul R. Hiner ’07

Step-father Grandfather Greatgrandfather Second cousin

Joseph J. Tulskie ’78

Uncle

Scott C. Doody ’84

Father

James M. Hennigan ’90 Lovick S. Hiner ’76 John T. Hiner ’43

2023 Abaigeal Doody

Mark W. McSwain ’90

Father

Brady R. Penn

Scott H. Brotherton ’03 Robert W. Brown ’78 Vincent Laorenza ’04 Natasha M. Laorenza ’04 George E. Penn Jr. ’56

Trevor A. Warrington

Donald A. Brown ’67

Father Grandfather Father Mother Greatgrandfather Grandfather

Tara L. McSwain 2034 Grant H. Brotherton Jezzabelle A. Brown Alessandra M. Laorenza

Taylor M. Murphy

Isreal L.E. Amsel Benjamin Q. Barnwell Jaxon B. Brown Declan R. James Giana Y. Laorenza Francisco M. Mackenzie Nora M. Penn

Travis C.J. Guidt ’02 Mark W. McSwain ’90

Uncle Father

George R. Crocker Jr. ’69

Grandfather

Michael L. Sexton ’65 Luther L. Sexton ’41

Grandfather Greatgrandfather

Bryan E. Amsel ’86 Allen M. Barnwell Jr. ’67 Robert W. Brown ’78 Roderick V. James ’04 Vincent Laorenza ’04 Natasha M. Laorenza ’04 Burt C. Mackenzie ’70 Michael R. Mackenzie ’73 George E. Penn Jr. ’56

Grandfather Grandfather Grandfather Father Father Mother Grandfather Great-uncle Greatgrandfather Uncle Uncle

2036

2024 Tate A. Hamilton Georgia McSwain

RELATIONSHIP

2035

2022 Garrett N. DeFazio Ethan Cipriano-Rodriquez

ALUMNUS-CLASS

2033 (cont.)

2020

Michael N. Gros

APPOINTEE’S NAME

Jackson E. Scarbrough

Michael W. Huggins Jr. ’07 Jacob D. Huggins ’19

2025 2037 Jacob A. Crocker

Eleanor McSwain

Mark W. McSwain ’90

John N. Dalton III ’14 Benjamin C. Dalton ’17 John B. Phillips ’51

Cousin Cousin Great-uncle

2028 Callum J. M. Early Caroline S. McSwain

Evan M. Walters Wesley J. Williams

Daren M. Williams ’03

Father

2027 Harper G. Moore

James W. Rountree Jr. ’67 Michael J. Smith ’77 Douglas D. Adams ’66 David A. Adams ’11 Robert W. Brown ’78 Keith R. Sawyer ’83 Robert A. Benson ’72 Brandon R. Matthews ’03 Brett E. Matthews ’95 Bryan H. Wacker ’03 Jon L. Sastri ’75 Lewis F. Rea ’71 Hunter S. Seal ’96 Christopher M. Strock ’97 John A. Strock ’98 Carl A. Strock ’70 David C. Strock ’74 John P. Strock ’76 Lewis F. Rea ’71 Brenton L. Underwood ’06 James P. Volosin ’04 Bradley J. Beckner ’07 Richard H. Cole ’51

Gage W. Benningfield Henry J. Bishop Benjamin T. Brais

2026

Todd C. Early ’91 Frederick B. McNeil ’65 Mark W. McSwain ’90

Father Grandfather Father

Robert W. Brown ’78 Roderick V. James ’04

Grandfather Father

Shiloh K. Brown James R. Hendrix Benson R. Lintz Wyatt L. Matthews

Harper E. Rea Hawkins C. Seal Cecilia R.M. Strock

2032 Josie C. Brown Ellie G. James 2033 Elizah R. Amsel

2016-Issue 1

Bryan E. Amsel ’86

Grandfather

Emmilou R. Trubey Barrett W. Underwood Annabeth C. Volosin

Grandfather Grandfather Grandfather Uncle Grandfather Grandfather Grandfather Father Uncle Uncle Grandfather Grandfather Father Father Uncle Grandfather Great-uncle Great-uncle Grandfather Father Father Uncle Greatgrandfather Father

159

Taps Edward H. Jones ’42 Edward Hamilton Jones ’42 of Richmond, Virginia, died June 22, 2015. He was 96.

Jones matriculated from Richmond and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Ursula; sons, Perry (Beverly) and Steve (Holly); grandsons, Ryan (Emily), Chris (Christine), Michael (Kensey) and Patrick (Kim); and nine greatgrandchildren.

John C. Santee ’45 John Curtis Santee ’45 of Saint Maries, Indiana, died Oct. 4, 2015. He was 93.

Santee matriculated from Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and attended VMI for one year.

He is survived by his sons, Scott Santee (Katherine) and Todd Santee (Teresa); daughter, Barbara Low (Theodore); seven grandchildren; one great-grandchild; sister, June Gallagher; and dear friend, Diane Chestnut.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Delbert Santee Jr., and sister, Elizabeth Houck.

Sam S. Walker ’45 Retired U.S. Army Gen. Sam Sims Walker ’45 of Pinehurst, North Carolina, died Aug. 8, 2015. He was 90.

His obituary appears in the front section of this Review issue.

Robert E. Nichols ’46 Robert Edward Nichols ’46 of Richmond, Virginia, died Sept. 25, 2015. He was 90.

Nichols matriculated from Richmond and attended VMI for less than one year. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his daughters, Susan N. Ingram and Lynn N. Shippee; son, Craig P. Nichols; sister-in-law, Betty Bond Nichols; and five grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Barbara (Darby) Patton Nichols, and brother, Lee L. Nichols Jr. ’44, who died May 10, 2000.

William S. Swecker ’46 William Sterrett Swecker ’46 of Stuarts Draft, Virginia, died March 10, 2012. He was 86.

Swecker matriculated from Crabbottom, Virginia, and attended VMI for less than one year.

He is survived by his wife, Ann Stuart McClure Swecker; daughter, Mary Tate Swecker; son, William S. Swecker Jr.; sisters, Betty Ann

160

Abbott and Mary Judy Riddick; and brothers, George R. Swecker and James L. Swecker.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Frances Celia Crown, and brother, Robert T. Swecker.

Thomas M. Whittemore ’46 Thomas Marshall Whittemore ’46 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died Aug. 18, 2015.

He was 91.

Whittemore matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and attended VMI for one year. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

He is survived by his wife, Jane Whitmore Whittemore; sons, Thomas M. Whittemore Jr. and John Angeny Whittemore; daughter, Katherine Corbin W. Panzella; grandchildren, Christopher Corbin Whittemore, Joan Marshall Whittemore, Evelyn Byrd Panzella and Jennifer Ann Pierce; and brother, H. Waller Whittemore.

Virginia, and attended VMI for less than two years.

He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Naval Academy.

He is survived by his wife, Doris; children, Marilyn (Sweeney), Forrest and Barbara (Palmer); and grandchildren, Patrick Sweeney, William Hawkins II, Jacob Hawkins, Renay Palmer and Corey Palmer.

Robert W. Massie III ’49B Robert Withers Massie III ’49B of Lynchburg, Virginia, died Oct. 26, 2015. He was 88.

Massie matriculated from Lynchburg and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his sons, Robert W. Massie and Richard M. Massie; daughter, Margaret D. Massie; and four grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Anne “Susie” Duval Massie.

Alfred M. McCauley ’48B

Earl R. Lawhorne ’49C

Alfred Miller McCauley ’48B of Louisville, Colorado, died Oct. 13, 2015. He was 88.

McCauley matriculated from Goode, Virginia, and attended VMI for one year. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

He is survived by his wife, Mary; daughters, Catherine Hellbaum (Bruce) and Carol Keaty (Jim); and grandchildren, Paige, McKenzie, Gwyn and Neal.

Earl Rudolf Lawhorne ’49C of Savannah, Georgia, died Aug. 30, 2015. He was 88.

Lawhorne matriculated from Lexington, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Jeanne Hoyt Lawhorne; sons, Stephen Lawhorne (Christine) and Gregory Lawhorne (Dianne); daughters, Diane Lawhorne and Suzanne Yaskow; grandchildren, Jason Lawhorne (Caroline), Eric McNeely and Elizabeth Lawhorne; and three great-grandchildren.

Thomas A. Stamey ’49A

Thomas Alexander Stamey ’49A, M.D., of Homer Ambrose Jr. ’51 Portola Valley, California, died Sept. 4, 2015.

Homer Ambrose Jr. ’51, Ph.D., of Falls He was 87.

Church, Virginia, died Aug. 24, 2015.

Stamey matriculated from RuthHe was 84. erfordton, North Carolina, and atAmbrose matriculated from Altended VMI for two years. He earned exandria, Virginia, and earned his his Bachelor of Arts degree from Bachelor of Science degree in civil Vanderbilt University and his Doctor engineering from VMI. He earned his of Medicine degree from Johns HopMaster of Science degree from Iowa kins University.

State University and his Doctor of He is survived by his wife, Kathryn, Philosophy degree from California and children, Frederick, Charline Coast University.

(Douty), Alex, Theron (Cooper) and Allison.

Ambrose ’51 He is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Marie; daughter, Anna; son, John; William F. Hawkins ’49B step-children, Angela, Byron and Donna SuWilliam Forrest “Bill” Hawkins ’49B of zanne; and grandsons, Zachary, Liam and Jack.

Mount Pleasant, Michigan, died April 13, James H. Evers ’51 2015. He was 88.

James Harry Evers ’51 of Saint Charles, Hawkins matriculated from Richmond,

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Illinois, died in 2015. He was 87.

Evers matriculated from Nutley, New Jersey, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. (Editor’s Note: We have no further information on Mr. Evers.)

Charles R. Chamberlain Jr. ’52 Charles Richard “Dick” Chamberlain Jr. ’52, M.D., of Augusta, Georgia, died Oct. 30, 2015. He was 84.

Chamberlain matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Anne Chamberlain; sons, Charles R. III (Colleen) and David E. (Kathy); grandchildren, Ellen Chamberlain, Eric Chamberlain and Bridget Chamberlain; brother, Robert; and sisters, Patricia Roach, Mary Catherine Wagoner, Thaddea Globash and Stephanie Barnett.

David V. Harvey ’52 David Vaughan “Donnie” Harvey ’52 of Bumpass, Virginia, died Aug. 25, 2015. He was 84.

Harvey matriculated from Bumpass and attended VMI for two years.

He is survived by his children, Janet L. Harvey, David E.W. Harvey (Melissa) and Sarah H. Pugh (William); grandchildren, Justin, Joey and Stephen; and great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Nancy S. Harvey.

Robert L. Lambert ’52

Lynchburg, Virginia, died Oct. 6, 2015. He was 85.

Nay matriculated from Wheeling, West Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from Columbia University.

He is survived by his daughters, Kathryn Nay Clay (Lucius), Betsy Nay Schwengel (Robert) and Jenny Nay Masters; grandchildren, Luke, Dina, Riley and Teddy; brother, John Godwin (Kathy); and sister, Janet Nay Carenbauer.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Geraldine “Gerry” Tullock Nay; brother, Robert E. Nay; and sister, Barbara Nay Raine.

William H. Soong ’55 William Hwayu “Bill” Soong ’55 of Las Vegas, Nevada, died Sept. 12, 2015. He was 86.

Soong matriculated from Shanghai, China, and attended VMI for less than one month.

He is survived by his wife, Connie; son, Steven; daughter, Sharon; sister, Soong Jing Yun; and brothers, Hou Ji Feng and Hou Ji Yu.

Wendell L. Shay ’53

Paul L. Bark ’56

Wendell Lee Shay ’53 of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, died Aug. 14, 2015. He was 84.

Shay matriculated from Power, West Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his daughter, Tawny Shay Hall (Buzz); son, Michael R. Shay (Jeri); five grandchildren; four step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and brother-in-law, John Rowand.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Anna M. (Fulks) Shay.

Paul Leslie Bark ’56 of Burleson, Texas, died Sept. 26, 2015. He was 81.

Bark matriculated from Natural Bridge, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his daughter, Lecia Willingham (Joe); son, William Bark (Terrie); grandchildren, Joey Willingham, Elizabeth Engelhardt (Brian) and William F. Bark Jr.; great-grandchildren, Aiden and Mason Engelhardt; and sister, Patricia Lorraine.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Betsey, and son, Paul Dandridge Bark.

Robert L. Modjeski ’54 Robert Lenard Modjeski ’54 of Pensacola, Florida, died Aug. 22, 2015. He was 83.

Modjeski matriculated from Fontana, Wisconsin, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned his Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree from Marquette University.

He is survived by his wife, Ivy Modjeski; sons, Leland Modjeski and Thomas Modjeski; daughter, Kimberly Richardson; step-son, Scott Chriss; step-daughter, Tracey Callahan; and grandson, John Patton.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Maurine Modjeski-Patton, and son, Robert Modjeski Jr.

Robert Leland Lambert ’52 of Williamsburg, Virginia, died Oct. 27, 2015. He was 86.

Lambert matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Betty Ruth Luck Lambert; daughter, Kay King (Dennis); son, Robert L. Lambert Jr. (Betsy); grandchildren, Sarah Hersh (Stephen) and Daniel Lambert; Herbert R. Ford Jr. ’55 and sister, Joan Morgan (Harold).

Herbert Ross Ford Jr. ’55 of WilHe was preceded in death by his Lambert ’52 liamsburg, Virginia, died Jan. 25, brother, Richard D. Lambert.

2015. He was 81.

Howard R. Nay ’52 Ford matriculated from Chatham, New JerHoward Riley “Skip” Nay ’52, M.D., of sey, and attended VMI for less than one year.

2016-Issue 1

He earned his Bachelor of Science degree from Lehigh University.

He is survived by his wife, Louisa; sons, H. Ross Ford III and Bruce (Sou); and grandchildren, H. Ross Ford IV, Alexander Ford, Parker Ford and Caroline Ford.

John R. Black Sr. ’56 Retired U.S. Army Reserve Col. John Robert “Bob” Black Sr. ’56 of Broadway, Virginia, died Aug. 4, 2015. He was 79.

Black matriculated from Broadway and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Edna Benner; sons, John Robert Black Jr. and Randall Lorne Black (Brenda); daughter, Deborah “Dee” Lynee Black; grandchildren, Ryan Sayre, Melissa Nguyen, Jack Black and Scott Black (Dwayne Berezny); and sister-in-law, Ann Black.

He was preceded in death by his brother, L. Neil Black.

Charles V. Lavery ’56 Charles Vincent Lavery ’56 of Palm City, Florida, died Oct. 18, 2015. He was 81.

Lavery matriculated from Williamsburg, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Helen Craig Lavery.

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Taps Joseph M. Davidson Jr. ’57 Joseph Mays “Joe” Davidson Jr. ’57 of Bedford, Virginia, died Aug. 29, 2015. He was 80.

Davidson matriculated from Bedford and attended VMI for one year.

He is survived by his wife, Joy Davidson; daughters, Lisa Harvel (Calvin), Laura Krzeski (Charlie) and Jennifer Moelchert (Chip); grandchildren, Danielle Mitchell (Stephen), Ashley Wells (Akeem), Tyler Krzeski, Copper Moelchert, Zach Moelchert and Braden Moelchert; and great-grandchild, Ryker Mitchell.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Mildred “Mim” Brown, and daughter, Carolyn Jo Davidson.

Chan H. Yeh ’60 Chan Hue Yeh ’60, Ph.D., of Sunnyvale, California, died Aug. 25, 2015. He was 81.

Yeh matriculated from Lexington, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned his Master of Science degree and Doctor of Philosophy degree from Cornell University.

(Editor’s Note: We have no further information on Mr. Yeh.)

James R. Berger ’61 Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. James Robert Berger ’61 of Lexington, Virginia, died Oct. 9, 2015. He was 76.

Berger matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned Berger ’61 his Master of Arts degree from Gonzaga University.

He is survived by his wife, Carole Wright Berger; sons, William H. Berger and Scott D. Berger (Nora); and grandchildren, Elaina Carole and Jesse Theodosis Berger.

Walter O. Stokes ’61 Walter Off Stokes ’61 of Greensboro, North Carolina, died Sept. 18, 2015. He was 77.

Stokes matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Anne Groseclose Stokes; daughter, Sharon Stokes Sweisford (Brian); son, Walter David Stokes (Rebecca

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Babcock); grandchildren, Matthew and Sara Sweisford and Jacob and Copeland Stokes; brother, Richard Gaines Stokes Jr.; and sister, Mary Douglas Stokes Warren (Fred).

Carl A. Loop Jr. ’63 Carl Arbra Loop Jr. ’63 of Cary, North Carolina, died July 30, 2015. He was 73.

Loop matriculated from Rocky Mount, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned his Master of Science degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy Tilson Loop; daughter, Caroline Loop; son-in-law, Mike O’Driscoll; and grandchildren, Claire and Seamus.

James G. Todd III ’63 James George Todd III ’63 of Portsmouth, Virginia, died Aug. 4, 2015. He was 74.

Todd matriculated from Portsmouth and attended VMI for one year.

He is survived by his wife, Jean; daughters, Elizabeth Adair Wilson (Steve) and Holly Lewis (Andrew); grandchildren, Peyton Wilson, Corbin Wilson, Andrew Lewis and Chandler Shearin; sister, Margaret Todd Dickenson (Fred); brothers, David Gill Todd (Debbie) and Richard Dunn Todd (Lorrie); step-children; and step-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by Julia Todd.

Leo A. Roach Jr. ’64 Leo Aloysius Roach Jr. ’64 of Crozet, Virginia, died Oct. 18, 2015. He was 73.

Roach matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Ginny Roach; daughter, Jackie Arismendi (Charles); son, Dan (Holly); grandchildren, Jane and Alex; sister, Connie Waggy (Reid); brother, Jon Roach (Jane); sister, Ellen Price; and brothers-in-law, Bill Peek (Sue), Richard Peek (Melissa) and Greg Peek (Irene).

John G. Fitzgerald ’65 John Gunn “Rusty” Fitzgerald ’65 of Roswell, Georgia, died Aug. 31, 2015. He was 72.

He matriculated from Pittsburg,

Pennsylvania, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Maebeth; daughter, Erin; son-in-law, Yusuf; grandchildren, Connor, Riley, Keller and Emma; sister, MaryEllen; and brother, Mark.

He was preceded in death by his son, Michael, and brother, Peter.

John S.C. Robertson Jr. ’66 John Saint Clair Robertson Jr. ’66, Ph.D., of Winterville, North Carolina, died Aug. 3, 2015. He was 71.

Robertson matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He received his Doctor of Philosophy degree from Florida State University.

He is survived by his wife, Judi Robertson; daughters, Rebecca Robertson Dunn (Chris) and Ruth Anne Harrell (Maurice); grandchildren, C.J. and Morgan; brother, William Robertson; and brother-in-law, Ronald Barrett (Anne).

James B. Dick ’70 James Benjamin “Ben” Dick ’70 of Charlottesville, Virginia, died Aug. 29, 2015. He was 67.

Dick matriculated from Winchester, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Richmond.

He is survived by his children, Leigh Dick and Tyler Dick, and their half-sister, Grace Feazell; siblings, Greg Dick, John Dick (Sally), Anne Clare Morrison, Celia Burton (Neil) and Thomas Dick (Trish).

Todd G. Sain ’75 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Todd Gardner Sain ’75 of Las Vegas, Nevada, died Oct. 16, 2015. He was 62.

Sain matriculated from Ridgewood, New Jersey, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in modern languages from VMI. He earned his Master of Business Administration degree from Mount St. Mary’s University.

He is survived by his wife, Vicky W., and children, Brian Sain ’08 and Eric Sain.

David M. Cameron ’78

Sain ’75

Retired U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. David Mason Cameron ’78 of Monrovia,

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Maryland, died Aug. 30, 2015. He was 59.

Cameron matriculated from Vienna, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He is survived by his parents, Larry and Mary Ann Cameron; sisters, Barbara Taylor (Gil) and Diane Anderson (David); and brother, Douglas Cameron (Belinda).

Sheahan ’79 and Robert F. Sheahan.

He was preceded in death by his father, Robert R. Sheahan.

daughter, Sophie; and parents, Lee and Denise Morris.

Stephen W. Morris ’92

Caroline Dawn “Carrie” Wortham ’12 of Richmond, Virginia, died Sept. 5, 2015. She was 26.

Her obituary appears in the front section of this Review issue.

Caroline D. Wortham ’12

Retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Lt. Col. Stephen Wayne Morris ’92 of Centreville, Virginia, died Sept. 16, 2015.

He was 45.

David J. Sheahan ’80 Morris matriculated from David Joseph Sheahan ’80 of SaraMechanicsville, Virginia, sota, Florida, died Aug. 26, 2015. and earned his Bachelor He was 56. of Arts degree in internaSheahan matriculated from Fairtional studies from VMI. He fax, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor earned his Master of Arts of Arts degree in history from VMI. degree from George Mason He is survived by his mother, Sheahan ’80 University.

Anne Lilly Sheahan; sister, MariHe is survived by his wife, anne Sheahan; and brothers, Daniel S. Stephanie; sons, Ryan and Daniel; Hoang ’19

Sean D. Hoang ’19 Cadet Sean Duc Hoang ’19 of Fairfax, Virginia, died Sept. 21. He was 18.

Hoang matriculated from Fairfax and was a biology major at VMI. He is survived by his parents, Brian and Van Ly Hoang, and siblings, Pauline Hoang and Ethan Hoang.

VMI Family Joan G.L. Braford Joan Gail Lawson Braford of Natural Bridge Station, Virginia, died Oct. 6, 2015. She was 75.

Joan retired from the VMI Foundation after 25 years of service.

She is survived by her husband, Douglas “Ned” Braford; sons, William “Bill” Braford (Jeanette) and Mark Braford (Shelia); sister, Brenda Stoner (Randy), brother, Fred Lawson, and companion, Linda; grandchildren, Timothy, Douglas, Jasmine and Ashley; and great-grandchildren, Alex, Sabrina and Caiden.

Jane T. Patton Jane Taylor Patton of Lexington, Virginia, died Sept. 24, 2015. She was 86.

Patton worked at the VMI Post Exchange for 17 years.

She is survived by her daughters, Olivia Lynn Patton and Karen Patton Priest (Josh); granddaughters, Ann Taylor Priest, Blair Elizabeth Priest and Rebecca Cady Patton; daughter-in-law, Pamela Messer Patton; and sister, Nell T. Baker.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Claude Herbert “Red” Patton ’50B, who died July 9, 1992; sons, Claude Herbert “Pat” Patton Jr. and John Fewell Patton; daughter, Katherine Jane Patton; brother, Jerry H. Taylor Jr.; and sister, Olivia Taylor Allen.

Thomas F. Seebode Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Thomas Frederick Seebode of Hopkins, South Carolina, died Aug. 26, 2015. He was 77.

Seebode previously served as a professor of aerospace studies at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Carole (Gifford) Seebode; daughters, Elizabeth S. Waldrop (fiancé Andy Colucci) and Jennifer S. Day (Rick); grandchildren, Taylor and Sarah Waldrop and Rebecca and Alex Day; sisters, Kay Robinson and Gail Evans (John); and sister-in-law, Melissa Hallstrom.

2016-Issue 1

163

VMI Alumni Association Directory The VMI Alumni Association, Inc. President

First Vice President

Edgar J.T. Perrow Jr. ’96 tperrow@wwassociates.net

Robert P. Louthan ’82 rlouthan1@gmail.com

Executive Vice President

Immediate Past President

Adam C. Volant ’88 avolant@vmiaa.org

Directors at Large

Robert A. Heely ’69 bobheely@yahoo.com

The VMI Foundation, Inc. President

Second Vice President

Hugh M. Fain III ’80

Asa H. Page III ’79 vmi79@verizon.net

Chief Executive Officer

Gregory M. Cavallaro ’84

Terms Expire June 30, 2016

Terms Expire June 30, 2017

Terms Expire June 30, 2018

Anthony U. Moore ’78 amor_78@comcast.net E. Sean Lanier ’94 av8sean06@hotmail.com

Jessica J. Schmaus ’04 jessica.schmaus@gmail.com Samuel N. Stocks ’90 sstocks@kbsgc.com

Chapter Alaska Arizona Greater Los Angeles Hawaii Inland Empire Nevada Northern California Pacific Northwest Pikes Peak Rocky Mountain San Diego

Director: Matthew R. Hemenez ’90 Chapter President

Trent L. Boggs ’93 Kevin Black ’99 Terrence S. DeGray ’04 Russell Shun Takata ’74 Andre S. Gibson ’78 Kenneth S. Krynski ’89 Brian K. Andrew ’03 James R. Farmer ’68 Thomas R. Clark III ’73 William V. Trumpore ’89 Micah T. Wei ’99

President’s Email tboggs@gci.com kblack@executivecommand.com tdegray@gmail.com russell.takata@yahoo.com andrejg@aol.com krynskiks@pendleton.usmc.mil brian.k.andrew@gmail.com seattlefarmer@comcast.net vmiman@comcast.net vailkeydet@gmail.com mwei100@yahoo.com

Director: James F. Dittrich ’76

Region II – Midwest Arkansas Bluegrass Centex

James F. Dittrich ’76 Gregory McDearmon ’99 Stephen J. Barcik III ’85

jfdinarkansas@aol.com ggmcd34@earthlink.net steve.barcik@htds2.com

Chicago

Daniel C. Young ’88 Molly M. Hastings ’13 Brian D. Skusa ’00 David C. Hagemann ’80 Jeffrey D. Vordermark ’79 R. Conor Evans ’02 Hamel B. Reinmiller ’98

dan.young@wfadvisors.com hastingsmm@mail.vmi.edu BSkusa@kforce.com dhag80@aol.com vordermark@juno.com conorevans@hotmail.com HBRvmi98@vmialumni.org

Daniel J. Fitzgerald ’89 Stephen P. Weiss ’86 J. Micah North ’00 David P. Loduca ’81 Murray F. Hudson ’82

Daniel.Fitzgerald@hdrinc.com Steve.Weiss@LibertyIU.com j.micah.north@gmail.com loduca@pbworld.com murfh@urbaneng.com

Cleveland Detroit Kansas City, Missouri North Texas – Dallas Oklahoma Rio Grande San Antonio Southeast Texas – Houston Southwest Ohio St. Louis Third Coast (Corpus Christi)

Region III – Northeast New England New York City – Long Island North Jersey

Central Keystone Maryland Southeastern PA Western PA – Pittsburgh

Region V – Southeast

Director: Patrick J. Griffin ’80

John W. Wainwright III ’82 Christopher J. Brandriff ’06 Richard C. Wolffe ’78

Region IV – Mid Atlantic

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President

William A. Paulette ’69

Joel W. Andrus ’04 jandrus@kemperconsult.com A. Damon Williams ’90 damonwilliams@msn.com

Region I – Far West

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

Brian S. Crockett

The VMI Keydet Club, Inc.

Historian

Thomas W. Davis ’64 davistw@vmi.edu

Chief Executive Officer

jwainwright38@comcast.net christopher.brandriff@jpmorgan.com RWolffe@tspcapitalmgt.com

Director: Peter R. Charrington ’66

Robert P. Hill ’08 Thomas M. Wirth ’98 Frederick J. Killmeyer IV ’95 Thomas N. Gelles ’80

rphill48@gmail.com twirth@mragta.com rickkillmeyer@gmail.com tng317@verizon.et

Director: C. Patrick Haddock ’00 Terence L. Bowers ’68 Thomas N. Daniel Jr. ’60 David R. Nagel ’01 Mark P. Parton ’08 Christopher R. Jones ’96 William E. Kirby III ’96 Robert P. Quarles III ’80

terrybowers@vmialumni.org tomdaniel60@charter.net nageldr78@hotmail.com partonmp@gmail.com crj2112@gmail.com ktkirby@comcast.net rpquarles@buckman.com

Email: mrhemenez@cox.net Chapter Representative Trent L. Boggs ’93 Joseph S. Howard III ’97 Matthew R. Hemenez ’90 Russell Shun Takata ’74 John D. Christie ’59 Todd E. Arris ’87 James R. Farmer ’68 Hershel H. Lackey ’07 William V. Trumpore ’89

Email: jfdinarkansas@aol.com Hugh R. Hill ’85 Christopher J. Whittaker ’90 J. Andrew Hardin ’04 Donald A. Noschese Jr. ’92 Stephen M. Chiles ’89 Mark A. Benvenuto ’83 Todd J. Jacobs ’90 Garry C. Varney ’76 Thomas R. Shaw ’78 Steven P. Weiss ’86 J. Micah North ’00 Robert C. Polk ’61 M. Douglass Payne ’73

Email: anchors80@comcast.net A. Bruno Loefstedt III ’80 John R. Gibney Jr. ’80 Kevin P. Sincavage ’87

Email: pcharrin@comcast.net H. Larry Mays Jr. ’73 Thomas J. Hickey Jr. ’68 John T. Pace IV ’77 J. Mark Hennigan ’90

Email: vmitranspo@hotmail.com Raymond R. Lawson ’81 Campbell C. Hyatt III ’65 Charles C. Schoen IV ’86 Kevin L. Snell ’82 Charles S. Sanger ’82 Philip J. Altizer Jr. ’80

VMI Alumni Review

VMI Alumni Association Directory

Region VI – Carolinas Camp Lejeune/Crystal Coast Cape Fear Central North Carolina – Raleigh Charlotte Club of the Triad Coastal Carolina/South Carolina Palmetto, South Carolina Wilmington, North Carolina

Director: Charles L. Ramsburg ’66 Paul M. Webber ’00 Charles L. Toomey ’74 Laurence B. Wilson Jr. ’62 Michael S. Anderson ’88 T. Matthew Creech ’96 N. Aric Southworth ’94 Carl B. Hammond ’00 John P. Gangemi ’61

Region VII – Deep South Birmingham Central Florida Greater New Orleans Mississippi Mobile Northeast Florida – Jacksonville Northwest Florida Southern Florida Southwest Florida – Fort Meyer Tennessee Valley The Villages – Florida Treasure Coast West Coast Florida – Tampa

William H. Cather Jr. ’65 John C. Nagle IV ’87

Charles M. Rogers IV ’83 Jason M. Goldstein ’02 James D. Friskhorn ’81 Scott A. Houser ’98 Bradford T. Herrell ’01 Herbert U. Fluhler ’77 Don L. Holmes ’66 Donald D. Carson ’64 Robert M. Bailey ’72

max.rogers@mobileinfirmary.org jmgoldstein@mactec.com vmi81@comcast.net housersa@yahoo.com vmigrad1@hotmail.com huf2000@aol.com donlholmes@aol.com dcarson678@bellsouth.net bobngracebailey@tampabay.rr.com

John H. Friend III ’82 Grafton D. Addison III ’82

Norfolk Peninsula Virginia Beach Western Tidewater

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

Director: Douglas B. Warner ’03 Director: G. Anthony Esteve ’00 John D. Kearney Jr. ’00 A. James MacDonald ’83

kearney.jay@gmail.com macvmi83@yahoo.com

Director: Hilbert S. Wilkinson III ’94 Director: William R. Charlet ’01

M. Keenan Entsminger ’02 Samuel L. Mattocks ’74

Region XIII – Rappahannock Fredericksburg – Quantico Rappahannock Southside Williamsburg

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

Director: Michael S. Ogden ’79 Director: Sean P. Hingley ’07

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

Region XII – Central VA Richmond Tri Cities

shduerson@gmail.com bradburrus@yahoo.com reeldadx2@gmail.com

Director: T. Keith Jarvis ’82

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

Region XI – Metro D.C. George C. Marshall Potomac River

Director: Bland Massie ’77

Samuel H. Duerson III ’87 Gerald B. Burrus ’96 Andrew M. Reel ’03

Region X – Hampton Roads Eastern Shore

Email: waltchalkley@aol.com

billcather@bellsouth.net jay.nagle@parsons.com rhys.david.williams@gmail.com

Region IX – Shenandoah Valley Allegheny Highlands Blue Ridge Charlottesville North Shenandoah Valley Rockbridge County Stonewall Jackson Valley

Director: Walter L. Chalkley ’72

Paul M. Webber ’00 Charles L. Toomey ’74 Ronald R. Wall ’69 James A. Sharp ’93 Charles H. Alligood ’61 Eric L. Duncan ’99 F. Grey Farthing III ’79 Henry Brown ’60

William H. Cather Jr. ’65 John C. Nagle IV ’87 Rhys D. Williams ’07

Region VIII – Southwest VA Lynchburg New River Valley Roanoke

webberpm@gmail.com toomeyl@pinehurst.net lbebwilson@aol.com vmi2army@gmail.com tmatthewcreech@gmail.com aric.southworth@yahoo.com hammondcb@yahoo.com jgangemi@ec.rr.com

Email: clramsburg@gmail.com

keenan_entsminger@ccpsnet.net samuelmattocks762@gmail.com

Director: Richard A. Duke ’90

Brett R. Martin ’00 Raymond J. Pietruszka ’77 Don Holmes ’66 Robert M. Bailey ’72

Email: super77@vmialumni.org Dennis A. Hackemeyer ’80 Gerald B. Burrus ’96 Alan G. Soltis ’79

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

Email: vmi79classagent@aol.com Email: sean.p.hingley@wfadvisors.com Thomas F. Wilson ’80 James A. Parsons ’80 David J. Trenholm ’70 H. Ali Mahan ’80 Oliver D. Creekmore ’66

Email: douglas.warner1@vmialumni.org Email: anthonyesteve@gmail.com Stephen B.Traina ’03 Henry J. Foresman Jr. ’76

Email: bretwilkinson@gmail.com Email: wcharlet@gmail.com Marc L. Antonelli ’06 Augustus Robbins III ’47

Email: rduke517@gmail.com

Carl J. DeBernard Jr. ’94 Stephen E. Wilson ’68

carl.debernard@dhs.gov sewilson68@verizon.net

R.C. Thompson III ’74 William F. Brent ’67

John E. Karafa ’84

john.karafa@leebcorservices.com

Jim E. Henry ’68

chingpu@saturn.yzu.edu.tw

Ching-Pu Chen ’85 Vaipot Srinual ’72

Region XIV – Pacific Rim Taiwan Thailand

2016-Issue 1

Ching-Pu Chen ’85 Vaipot Srinual ’72

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Alumni News Robert G. “Bob” Tanner ’69 was featured in an article for the Atlanta Business Chronicle June 19, 2015. In the article, titled “Atlanta Lawyer Doubles as Civil War Historian,” Tanner described where the inspiration and motivation came from to write his 1996 book, “Stonewall in the Valley: Thomas J. Stonewall Jackson’s Shenandoah Valley Campaign, Spring 1862.” In 2001, he followed the book with another titled, “Retreat to Victory?

Confederate Strategy Reconsidered,” which explored a theory that the South could have won the war if it had pursued a strategy aimed at wearing out the North over time.

According to the article, it was Tanner’s interest in the Civil War that led him to VMI. At the Institute, he was able to access primary source material, as well as travel to the University of Virginia and the city of Richmond, which had served as the Confederate capital.

However, after realizing his passion for writing and talking, the history major decided to enter into a law profession. He now works primarily in medical malpractice, as it accounts for 90 percent of his caseload. One case garnered national attention, and in the last decade, 18 of the 20 cases he has tried were total victories, while the other two ended with hung juries.

Tanner matriculated from Malibu, California, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from Wake Forest University.

On July 21, 2015, Lt. Gen. John D. Johnson ’77 retired from the Army after 38 years of service.

Sportsmen’s Foundation and the World Forum on the Future of Sport Shooting Activities; was on the Federal Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council; as a professional member of the Boone & Crockett Club and a member of the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies Blue Ribbon Panel on Sustaining America’s Diverse Fish & Wildlife Resources; is on the Board of Firearms Advisors for the Cody Firearms Museum; and is chairman of Project ChildSafe, Inc. He is a National Rifle Association certified rifle, pistol and home firearms safety instructor and the recipient of the 2004 Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Award.

Sanetti matriculated from Hicksville, New York, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from Washington and Lee University.

On Aug. 27, 2015, Stephen L. Sanetti ’71 was one of 18 members who were appointed to the Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation James A. Lofton ’76 was recognized by Council by the U.S. secretary of the interior the American Bar Association, Section of and the U.S. agriculture secretary. Established Environment, Energy and Resources, as the in 2010, the Wildlife and Hunting Heritage 2015 Government Attorney of the Year. As a Conservation Council advises departments government lawyer, Lofton has handled high on wildlife conservation, habitat conservation profile trials, managed teams of trial lawyers, and hunting. settled numerous cases that have improved Sanetti is the president and chief executive human health and the environment, and officer of the National Shooting Sports Foun- advanced the careers of countless attorneys dation, Inc. and the Sporting Arms and Am- for more than 25 years. munition Manufacturers’ Institute, Lofton began his work as a trial Inc. He previously served 28 years at attorney in 1991 after six years in Sturm, Ruger and Company, rising to private practice. He has a been a the position of president, chief operlegal specialist for the ABA Rule of ating officer and vice chairman of the Law Initiative teaching criminal law board. He also previously served as a to students in Ukraine, a Fulbright member of the Executive CommitScholar teaching environmental law tee at VMI, coach of the VMI Rifle in Turkey and an Atlantic Fellow in Team and president of its Rifle and Public Policy for the University of Pistol Club. Sanetti has served as a Cambridge, England. He regularly board member of the Congressional Lofton ’76 teaches at the National Advocacy

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Center, the Justice Department’s training center for its attorneys.

Lofton matriculated from Jefferson, Georgia, and graduated with distinction from VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts Degree in modern languages. He earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Richmond.

On July 21, 2015, Lt. Gen. John D. Johnson ’77 retired from the U.S. Army after 38 years of service. The ceremony was held at Fort Myers Henderson Hall and had full honors rendered from the 3rd U.S. Army Infantry Regiment (The Old Guard).

Johnson most recently served as the director of the Joint Improvised-Threat Defeat Agency – formerly the Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization – and achieved the goal of establishing the new agency as an enduring capability for the Department of Defense. He also laid the groundwork for a Department of Defense strategy to shape counter-IED strategic planning worldwide.

Johnson matriculated from Tulsa, Oklahoma, and earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He also attended the U.S. Command & General Staff College and the Army War College.

Yanyong Phataralaoha ’77 donated 2 million baht to the Asian Institute of Technology in an effort to modernize the institute’s library. This is Phataralaoha’s third donation to AIT, including over 2 million baht donated in December 2014 toward three academic scholarships for students from Laos, Cambodia and Myanmar. The three Thai Pipe Industry Scholarships include full tuition and registration fees and are intended for master’s degree candidates in the field of

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News water engineering and management at AIT’s School of Engineering and Technology. The Thai Pipe Industry Co. Ltd. was established in 1963 and is Thailand’s major producer of PVC pipes and fittings.

In February 2015, Phataralaoha announced a full scholarship for a bachelor’s degree graduate of VMI to study for a master’s degree at AIT beginning in August 2015. It was the first time a scholarship from AIT was given to an American citizen.

Phataralaoha matriculated from Washington, D.C., and graduated with distinction from VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He earned his Master of Science degree and Master of Engineering degree from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

He earned his Doctor of Engineering degree from the Asian Institute of Technology.

The American Chemical Society named Mark A. Benvenuto ’83, Ph.D., to the 2015 class of ACS Fellows July 21, 2015. The class of fellows included 78 distinguished scientists who have demonstrated accomplishments in chemistry and important contributions to ACS, the world’s largest scientific society.

Those named to the class were recognized at a ceremony and reception Aug.17, 2015, during the Society’s 250th National Meeting & Exposition in Boston. The ACS Fellows Program was created in December 2008 by the ACS Board of Directors.

Benvenuto matriculated from Henrietta, New York, and received his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Virginia.

Sheldon D. Johnson Sr. ’86 was the winner of two events at the USA Masters Outdoor Track & Field Championships in July 2015. The competition, held in Jacksonville, Florida, spanned four days and attracted an estimated 1,000 athletes who competed in five-year divisions, starting at the age of 30.

Johnson won the men’s 50-54 age group titles in the hammer throw (51.55m) and the weight throw (17.14m). Johnson had previously won the weight throw title at the USATF Indoor Championships in North Carolina.

Johnson matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in mechanical engineering from VMI. He earned his Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh.

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Petitte ’65 Earns Recognition for Efforts Against Human Trafficking

by Elaine Wood, Editorial Assistant Retired U.S. Army Col. Ron D. Petitte ’65, D.P.A., has a story that begins like many VMI graduates’. After graduating from the Institute, he immediately commissioned in the Army and held a successful military career. But what makes Petitte’s story different is that his post-military career led him into focusing on combating a social injustice that is simply hard to stomach. Human trafficking is a term becoming increasingly apparent in the news; however, the depth of the issue was just as unknown to Petitte in the beginning of his journey as it is to most of us.

Petitte’s awareness of the issue began during his professorship at Bryan College, where he has now been for 22 years. He stated that his love for teaching was initially recognized after he finished his first primary active duty tour and had a reserve commission that allowed some flexibility and freedom. Prior to his time at the college, he was hired at the American International School as a coordinator of math for kindergarten through eighth grade, the director of the athletic program and a teacher for grades five through eight.

Later, at Bryan College, Petitte found that political science was not a source of study for students. Disheartened by this, Petitte designed a unique course that taught politics, philosophy and economics in an integrated manner. This program was the foundation stone for what are now five majors based upon politics offered at Bryan College.

Petitte’s efforts with human trafficking initially came from his students. In 2007, a small group of them asked to attend a conference on the subject at Barden University.

“Well, they found the conference; I didn’t,” joked Petitte, who quickly began searching for ways to fund the trip. Help came to him through a colleague who liked the idea, and Petitte was able to get permission for his students to attend. “[Once] they got back, they couldn’t stop talking about it, especially one presenter, Christine Dolan, so I thought ... there’s something here,” said Petitte.

Further researching this topic, Petitte quickly reached out to Dolan in hopes of

bringing her to Bryan College to present. He was successful, and although the day that she came rested right on the brink of final exams, over one-third of the student body turned out for the event.

But that wasn’t the end of his efforts. As Petitte put it, “God has given me, with his wonderful sense of humor, [the characteristic] that I can’t give up on things. So I decided that I was going to contact the State Department, because I had learned that they have an agency that deals with monitoring and combating human trafficking.” But his calls to the department weren’t immediately answered. After many attempts, Petitte was referred to Dr. Abraham Lee, who had previously encountered the issue of human trafficking during missionary work. Petitte also reached the desk of a detective sergeant at New Scotland Yard who was very heavily involved in the issue, in order to invite him to a conference at Bryan, along with Lee. This started a successful series of conferences centered on the crisis of human trafficking spanning eight years. “The first solution [to human trafficking] is education. Because so many people are unaware ... I was,” stated Petitte.

Petitte then began the process of working with the administration at Bryan College to produce the option to major in human trafficking. Students at Bryan now have the

Ron Petitte ’65 presenting a paper on human trafficking to the Oxford Round Table at Harris Manchester College in the University of Oxford, England, July 31, 2013.

This paper was part of the book, “Civilization at Risk: Seeds of Strife.”

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Alumni News ability to major in politics and government with a concentration in human trafficking.

Going further, he even created the ability for a student not majoring in those topics to minor in the study of human trafficking. In comparison, Harvard University is the only other college in the nation to offer study of the topic, yet it only offers the option of two classes.

Before this groundbreaking program was created, Petitte received annual invitations to join an Oxford Round Table at Oxford University in England. “They select scholars from around the world and assemble them at one of the colleges in the university,” stated, Petitte. “So I finally decided I was going to write and accept [but only] if they let me give a paper on combating human trafficking.” This approach was a strategic effort, as attending conferences is expensive, and Petitte knew that his small college did not have the means for such an expense. By being allowed to present a paper, Petitte was bringing recognition to Bryan College. Petitte presented his first paper at an Oxford Round Table in 2008.

He was asked to return a couple of years later, and then the invitation was extended a third time.

Adding to his already aggressive efforts, Petitte directs the Center for Leadership & Justice at Bryan College, which in turn sponsors the Justice & Mercy Initiative. One hundred percent of the proceeds Petitte receives from his book, “Civilization at Risk: Seeds of Strife,” go toward this initiative in order to fight human trafficking.

Petitte stated that an estimated 30 million people worldwide are victims of human trafficking. However, there is speculation that the number of victims could be an insurmountable 150 million, with the primary victims being women and children. Petitte also insists that the punishment for these crimes is lighter than one might expect.

In his second book, a sequel to “Civilization at Risk: Seeds of Strife,” titled, “Civilization at Risk: Seeds of War,” Petitte highlights many efforts being made against the social injustice that allow hope for combating the issue. “We’re not going to end it,” stated Petitte, “But we can try to make an impact to lessen it.”

To learn more about the Justice & Mercy Initiative, please visit http://www.bryan. edu/clj/jmi.

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Andrew Williams ’07 Inspires Inventors

by Elaine Wood, Editorial Assistant After graduating from VMI and commissioning in the U.S. Marine Corps, Andrew Williams ’07 didn’t necessarily expect that one day his career would focus on creating, inventing and entrepreneurship.

Williams’ path to this career originated while he was serving in the Marines. He deployed twice during his service. He first went to Iraq as a logistics officer running convoys through the Anbar Province. While in Iraq, he became an operations officer for a detachment handling security and mounted patrols in villages of northern Iraq. His second deployment was to Afghanistan, with his responsibilities ranging from strategic logistics to advising.

With these two deployments under his belt, Williams, who held the rank of captain, felt content with his military career. As he thought about joining the civilian workforce, he decided to pursue an idea he had while deployed that would set the pace for his next career.

During Williams’ deployment to Afghanistan, the need for one of his inventions, TacLace, was realized. Along with his peer, Pete Foster, Williams had a sort of “ah-ha” moment when the base they were on was under indirect fire. “In a hurry, you have to get to safety, but there is no hurry with your [boot] laces. It takes up to a minute-and-ahalf. [Foster and I] pondered some ideas for

a device that would help it happen faster,” he said. After a rather intensive refining and testing process and finding someone who could produce the product at a high volume and in the highest quality, the rapid boot lacing system was created. TacLace “allows you to lace up your boots in pull, cinch and wrap. It attaches to your laces and is agnostic to the boot, so long as you have laces,” explained Williams. The hostile environment of a war zone and the immediate need for such an invention motivated Williams in TacLace’s production. “I think creative thinking certainly develops cool ideas, but there is a difference between cool and useful. People want to fix pain points, so inspiration from a need is far more successful. People want things that bring value to your life,” he explained.

The actual creation process of TacLace – as well as other inventions – can be grueling, however. Williams explained it took several try and fail experiences until a quality product was achieved. The original target audience of military, tactical and law enforcement soon spread to reach the outdoor community, as well. “Over the past year, we have seen the outdoor community surpass the military in sales. Our next steps are driving down our costs and pursuing the commercial markets,” Williams said.

It is through this passion and commitment

At the ribbon cutting ceremony for the second location of Elite Innovations LLC Sept. 3, 2015, were, from left, front row, Andrew Williams and Emilyanne Atkinson. Back row: Jay Turner, Jonathan Dineen, Jason Gillikin, Andrew Keener and Edward Hall.

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News to his products and their purpose that Williams he explained. Included in this diverse member- enormous pride in their own initiative, while sought out a collective space for others inter- ship are also do-it-yourself minded students who others require a special touch of motivation.” ested in inventing. Elite Innovations LLC was learned of the makerspace from the partnership Williams was confident that Elite Innovations a product of the frustrations, inspirations and that Elite Innovations LLC has with the Univer- LLC would expand physically and continue sity of North Carolina at Wilmington. determination of the creatively minded who had to progress. He saw that vision come to life in Although such a creative career path seems far ideas but did not have a bearing on the actual September 2015, when – just 10 months after the process of forming those ideas into a physical removed from the disciplined structure of VMI first location opened – a ribbon cutting ceremony product. The deemed “makerspace,” which and the Marine Corps, Williams stated both was held to celebrate the official opening of a secofficially opened in 2013, is settled ond location in the historic riverfront comfortably in the entrepreneurdowntown district of Wilmington. friendly city of Wilmington, North A growing staff that includes a lead Carolina. It boasts 3D printers, designer, sales manager, operations computer-aided-design software, manager and numerous interns are electronics equipment, molding housed at this site. stations, deductive tools (such as The VMI alumni base, according to Dremels), metal fabrication, textiles Williams, was also very instrumental equipment, vinyl cutting and more. in getting the company to where it is.

With such a wide range of available “Elijah Huston ’07 is here. He’s been tools, Elite Innovations LLC charges exceptional in helping me along with a reasonable membership fee. They my business. Brant Priest ’07 started also accept contract customers who his own line of products here in my are charged a fee for service based space but has since moved on to on the estimated hours to complete A peek at the inside of the Elite Innovations LLC makerspace, which [Washington] D.C.,” Williams said. a job. Follow-on services are also officially opened in 2013.

For current cadets who wish to available for manufacturing and marketing through local partners and resources of the company.

Williams insists that although the amount of available resources would seem to be what stand out the most about the makerspace, the best aspect about Elite Innovations LLC is its unique design process. “We have a very diverse and creative group of people here. Having multiple perspectives in the design thinking space really helps us converge on a good product solution,”

experiences taught him vital character qualities that translate into the creative workforce. “The leadership parallels between the U.S. Marine Corps and entrepreneurship are extraordinary.

As an entrepreneur, managing people is one thing, but finding the right role for the right people is another, and that’s the leadership challenge.” He continued, “The biggest challenge is the difference in initiative you see between civilians and Marines or cadets. The latter take

pursue a similarly creative career, Williams offers nothing but support. “I think this career is the path less traveled, continued beyond limits gates. It’s in our DNA as VMI people to pursue a career that challenges us and allows us to take some risk. ...The future of business in America is entrepreneurship. We are just barely touching the surface of the opportunities that we can create...”

To learn more about Elite Innovations LLC, please visit http://eliteinnovationsllc.com/.

... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ...

Instruments of War: Weapons and Technologies That Have Changed History by Spencer C. Tucker ’59. ABC-CLIO Publishing.

August 2015. ISBN: 9781440836541. Available via amazon.com and ABC-CLIO Publishing.

This book of some 150,000 words discusses 260 important weapons and technological developments that have helped shape the outcome of wars throughout history.

Each entry has a list of books for further

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reading. There are numerous illustrations and 25 sidebars that provide interesting examples of the employment of the weapons and technologies. Some examples of the entries are the spear, Greek trireme, longbow, flintlock musket, barbed wire, machine gun, B-17 flying fortress, 2.5-ton truck and improvised explosive device.

Wars That Changed History: 50 of the World’s Greatest Conflicts by Spencer C. Tucker ’59. ABC-CLIO Publishing. October 2015. ISBN: 9781610697859. Available via amazon.com and ABC-CLIO Publishing.

“Wars That Changed History: 50 of the World’s Greatest Conflicts” discusses what the author believes to be the 50 most consequential wars in human history. Organized chronologically, it begins with Egyptian Pharaoh Thutmose III’s campaigns of 479-459 BCE and ends with the Iraq War of 2003-11. For each war, sections discuss the causes, course and significance of that particular conflict. There is also a reading list for each war and numerous illustrations and maps throughout the text.

About the author: Spencer Tucker is a member of the Class of 1959. After a Fulbright year in

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Alumni News France, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in history from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Following two years on active duty as a U.S. Army captain in military intelligence, he taught for 30 years in the history department at Texas Christian University – the last five as department chairman. He then held the John Biggs Chair of Military History at VMI for six years before retiring from teaching altogether in 2003. He is currently Senior Fellow in Military History for ABC-CLIO Publishing. He and his wife, Beverly, live in Lexington, Virginia. Spencer has written or edited 55 books or encyclopedias treating military and naval history, a number of which have won important awards.

Seal of Confession by Preston W. Holtry ’63. Moonshine Cove Publishing LLC. August 2015. ISBN: 9781937327736. Available via Amazon.com, BarnesandNoble.com and moonshinecove.publishing.com.

A man has been convicted and hanged in Santa Fe for the brutal murder of Carlotta Ridgefield. Father Juan Salas, the victim’s confessor, knows the executed man was innocent and wants Morgan Westphal to find who killed her.

Morgan is reluctant to take on a case the police consider closed. When he does agree to look into it, he is challenged by the priest’s refusal to say what he knows for fear he will violate the sanctity of the confessional and church dogma regarding the Seal of Confession.

Set in 1916 during a period of western railroad expansion and disputed Spanish land grants, “Seal of Confession” is a multi-layered plot with seemingly unrelated threads that are tied to both the murder and the execution.

Published in 2013, “Death in Emily 3” was the first in the Morgan Westphal mystery series. The second novel, “A Troublesome Affair,” was published in 2014, and the fourth novel, “The Good Thief,” is scheduled for publication in 2016.

About the author: Preston Holtry is a former ski instructor, Veterans Affairs hospital volunteer and novelist. He graduated from the Virginia Military Institute with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and earned a graduate degree from Boston, University. A career army officer, he served twice in Vietnam in addition to other infantry and intelligence-related assignments in Germany, England

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and the United States. Now a full-time writer, he lives with his wife, Judith, in Oro Valley, Arizona.

in their communities – and the large, yet growing, field of environmental chemistry.

Industrial Chemistry – for Advanced Students by Mark A. Benvenuto ’83. DeGruyter Graduate.

2015. ISBN: 9783110351699. eISBN: 9783110351705. Available via Amazon.com or at www.degruyter.com.

About the Author: Mark Benvenuto matriculated from Henrietta, New York. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI in 1983, and after four years in the U.S. Army, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in inorganic chemistry from the University of Virginia. He has been a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry & Biochemistry at the University of Detroit Mercy since 1993 and the department chair since 2001. In 2015, he was elected as a fellow of the American Chemical Society.

“Industrial Chemistry – for Advanced Students” is an in depth survey of real world industrial scale chemical processes that examines and discusses the various chemical reactions and processes that are both part of industry and a part of the greater global society today. From bio-fuels to butanol; from fluorine to phosgene; from acetic anhydride to vitamins, this graduate level book illustrates many of the major chemical processes that are not taught in other chemistry classes, but upon which our modern quality of life depends.

What You Need for the First Job, Besides the Ph.D. in Chemistry edited by Mark A. Benvenuto ’83. University of Detroit Mercy.

ACS Symposium Series. 2015.

ISBN:9780841229624. Available via Oxford University Press.

Despite having “Ph.D.” in the title, this book is a primer for any person who is about to embark on a career in the chemical industry or in any scientific endeavor. Chapter authors are leaders in industry, academia and government labs and share a wealth of information for the new employee.

Service Learning and Environmental Chemistry: Relevant Connections edited by Elizabeth S. Roberts-Kirchhoff, Matthew J. Mio and Mark A. Benvenuto ’83. University of Detroit Mercy.

ACS Symposium Series. 2015. ISBN: 9780841230088. Available via Oxford University Press.

This book examines service learning – an educational tool in which students interact with and learn from others

The Chickamauga Campaign – Glory or the Grave: The Breakthrough, Union Collapse, and the Retreat to Chattanooga, September 2023, 1863 by David A. Powell ’83. Savas Beatie LLC. 2015. ISBN:9781611212020. Available via www.savasbeatie.com.

Powell’s magnum opus, complete with original maps, photos and illustrations, is the culmination of many years of research and study, coupled with a complete understanding of the battlefield’s complex terrain system. For any student of the Civil War in general – or the Western Theater in particular – Powell’s trilogy is a must read.

About the author: David A. Powell graduated from VMI with a Bachelor of Arts degree in history in 1983. After graduation, he went to work for CBS Messenger – a family business in the Chicago area – but never lost his intense interest in military history, especially in the American Civil War. Powell has written numerous articles for a variety of magazines, more than 15 historical simulations of various battles and regularly leads tours of the Chickamauga battlefield.

His previous books include, “The Maps of Chickamauga: An Atlas of the Chickamauga Campaign, Including the Tullahoma Operations, June 22 - September 23, 1863” (2009) and “Failure in the Saddle: Nathan Bedford Forrest, Joseph Wheeler, and the Confederate Cavalry in the Chickamauga Campaign” (2010), which was the recipient of the Atlanta Civil War Round Table’s Richard B. Harwell Award.

VMI Alumni Review

The Institute The Center for Leadership and Ethics Annually, the Center for Leadership and Ethics is responsible for bringing to post several speakers as part of co-curricular efforts to enhance cadet experiences through integrated leadership and ethical development opportunities. The H.B. Johnson Jr. ’26 Distinguished Lecture Series includes major lectures representing a variety of perspectives and themes with broad attendance by cadets and the local community. Lecturers bring key themes and issues before the Corps – enhanced international and cultural perspectives, contemporary foreign and domestic issues, leadership insights, moral ethical questions, and civic responsibilities.

The first Johnson lecturer for the academic year was Ms. Kirsten Powers, Fox News political analyst, journalist and author of, “The Silencing: How the Left is Killing Free Speech.” She was this year’s speaker for academic convocation held Sept. 9, 2015, in Cameron Hall. Afterward, she attended a luncheon with cadets and other members of the VMI community, followed by a cadetonly Q&A session. She challenged cadets to value free speech – not only as an American value, but also as a necessary part of their academic experience in higher education. She asked them to consider whether we wanted to be the home of the free and the brave or silenced and afraid. For more information, a news article about Powers’ visit appears on the vmi.edu news feed and video is posted on YouTube as “VMI 2015 Convocation - Kirsten Powers.”

VMI supports a national strategic effort of advancing STEM education through its annual STEM Education Conference.

Around 300 educators and administrators from across Virginia responsible for influencing the key demographic of students in grades three through eight attended the hands-on workshop-style conference. This year’s theme was titled, “Hands on STEM: Technology and Project Based Learning.” The closing plenary session featured Dr. Art Benjamin, professor at Harvey Mudd College and popular TED ‘mathemagician,’ who demonstrated his ‘mental math’ skills.

The Leadership Book Program is well underway for the 2015-16 academic year, having completed their first book, “Vigilance: My Life Serving America and Protecting its Empire City,” by Ray Kelly. Cadets and members of the community attended a book signing with Kelly followed by a conversation-style interview moderated by the center’s director, Col. David R. Gray, Ph.D. Kelly’s appearance at VMI is also part of the H.B. Johnson Jr. ’26 Distinguished Lecture Series. Information about the Leadership Book Program, as well as other upcoming events, may be found at www.vmi.edu/cle.

Save the date for March 7-8, 2016, to attend the sixth Annual VMI Leadership Conference titled, “Ethical Dilemmas in the Digital Age.” The conference will explore questions raised regarding the role ethics, honor and leadership play in individual and national character as society becomes more reliant on technology. Specifically, this conference will address ethical dilemmas in national policy and society that have arisen as a result of new technologies.

2016-Issue 1

Kirsten Powers, Fox News political analyst, met with select cadets to discuss the importance of free speech on college campuses.

Dr. Benjamin, professor at Harvey Mudd College, demonstrated ‘mental math’ while volunteers from the audience verified his calculations.

Ray Kelly, former New York City police commissioner, spoke one-on-one with cadets from the Leadership Book Program in Crozet Hall and signed copies of his book. He is pictured here with Cadet Jordan Farmer ’19.

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The Institute The center is pleased to announce that the 2016 Leadership Conference will feature two distinguished speakers: Retired U.S. Army Gen. Keith Alexander, H.B. Johnson Jr. ’26 Distinguished Lecture speaker, former director of the National Security Agency, chief of Central Security Service and former U.S. Cyber Command commander; and Peter Singer, the Richard L. Goodall ’66 and Family Leadership and Ethics keynote speaker, senior fellow and strategist at the New American Foundation, former director of the Center for 21st Century Security and Intelligence, and a senior fellow in foreign policy at the Brookings Institute. Singer is considered one of the world’s leading experts on changes in 21st century warfare. The conference will include four panel discussions on topics ranging from cyber attacks to individual privacy and social media ethics. Alumni are encouraged to attend this fascinating two days of exploring “Ethical Dilemmas in the Digital Age.” For more information, please visit: www.vmi.edu/leadershipconference.

The Friends of Preston Library Preston Library has an active friends group which supports library resources, services and facilities. Membership is open to the public.

Interested individuals are invited to join or make a donation to the Friends of Preston Library online. Please visit the webpage at www.vmi.edu/ friends. Thank you for your support.

Contributions made to Friends of Preston Library support library needs and make significant enhancements to VMI’s academic program, which directly benefits cadets and faculty.

In addition to providing academic resources and funding for other improvements, the friends organize and host stimulating programs for cadets, faculty, alumni and the community at large. Recent programs have been by New York Times bestselling author, S.C. Gwynne, who wrote “Rebel Yell: The Violence, Passion and Redemption of Stonewall Jackson,” and noted southern historian, Dr. William C. Davis, who wrote “Crucible of Command: Ulysses S. Grant and Robert E. Lee – The War They Fought, the Peace They Forged.”

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Center for Leadership and Ethics Upcoming Events Academic Year 2015-2016 Theme: “Living in the Age of Machines”

Dec. 11-12, 2015

Biennial Seiziémistes of the Mid-Atlantic Conference

March 7-8, 2016

6th Annual Leadership Conference: “Ethical Dilemmas in the Digital Age”

April 5-7, 2016

27th Annual Environment Virginia Symposium “Virginia’s Environment: Change, Challenge & Opportunity”

April 8-9, 2016

Virginia State Science & Engineering Fair

April 30 - may 1, 2016

27th Annual Virginia Humanities Conference: “Survival of the Humanities in a Technological World”

May 28, 2016

6th Biennial Stonewall Jackson Symposium

June 5-7, 2016

Applied Mathematics Conference: “Inverse Problems”

Editor’s Note: The CLE article and events schedule was submitted by the Center for Leadership and Ethics. The article about Doc Carroll’s portrait in Carroll Hall was first published in the November 2015 Institute Report.

VMI Alumni Review

The Institute

‘Doc’ Carroll’s Portrait Adorns Carroll Hall Once More A sad, mysterious chapter in the “We are very pleased to have a Institute’s history came to a happy portrait of Doc Carroll once again conclusion recently with the gift of a gracing the building that bears his new portrait of the late Col. Robert name,” said Gibson, who is also “Doc” Carroll to replace one that chair of the Memorials Committee, was likely stolen. a project of which has been to create On the eve of Founders Day weekappropriate foyer displays for buildend in 2012, a portrait of Carroll, a ings on post. “The fact that it was 40-year veteran of VMI’s biology done by one of ‘Doc’s boys’ makes department faculty, suddenly and it doubly meaningful.” inexplicably disappeared from the “Doc’s boys,” now men with cafoyer of Carroll Hall, where it had reers of their own, have their own hung since the building was named memories of Carroll, a figure who in Carroll’s honor in 1980. loomed larger than life during his The VMI police department was time at the Institute, which stretched notified, but no perpetrator could from 1928-68. be found; nor could any trace of Reed, who went on to earn a bachthe missing items, which included elor’s degree from Duke University not only the portrait of Carroll but and a medical degree from the Unialso two rugs and a framed black versity of Florida, recalled Carroll as and white dedication photo. “colorful” and “irreverent.”

Fast forward to early summer “He may have been both of those 2015 and the VMI Museum’s receipt things, but I saw him as kind and of a painting by artist Dr. James supportive – words he never would Reed ’59. Reed, a retired dermahave used.” tologist now living in Waynesboro, Echoing this depiction of Carroll Virginia, hand delivered his oil was Col. James “Jim” Turner ’65, painting, “The Sentinel Box,” now head of the biology department This portrait of the late Col. Robert “Doc” Carroll now hangs in Carwhich depicts a cadet on guard duty roll Hall. VMI photo by John Robertson IV. and the Beverly M. Read ’41 Institute in the courtyard of Old Barracks.

Professor of Arts and Sciences.

Reed stopped to chat with Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director “[Carroll] was a character plus,” said Turner, adding that Carroll’s of the VMI Museum System. eccentricities included bringing his dog to work with him and chewing The conversation turned to Carroll, known for his mentorship of tobacco in every class he taught. “In every room there was a spittoon,” generations of pre-med cadets who became known as “Doc’s boys.” said Turner.

When Reed began to reminisce about Carroll’s influence during the Underneath the exterior of a crusty old man, though, was a heart that two years he spent at VMI, Gibson told him about the missing painting. had the best interests of cadets in mind. “You couldn’t help but be taken “Why don’t I replace it?” Reed recalled asking. in by him,” Turner commented. “He was a character ... but he loved Soon, Reed was making a second trip to Jackson Memorial Hall, every one of his students as his own child. ... It was an experience I wish home of the VMI Museum – this time bearing an oil painting depicting everyone could have had in terms of a mentor/professor relationship.” a head and shoulders image of Carroll. The new painting was hung in For Reed, the artist, the portrait is a thank you letter without words.

Carroll Hall in fall 2015, but this time, it has been placed deeper inside “I was never able to thank [Carroll], so perhaps this portrait can be one the building to discourage a second disappearing act. small acknowledgement of what he meant to those of us who knew him.”

Correction: An article titled, “Remembering Doc Carroll 50 Years Later,” appeared in this section of the 2015-Issue 4 Alumni Review. The article stated that Carroll retired in 1965. He did step down as department head at that time; however, he did not officially retire from the Institute until June 1968. Walter Judd ’69 had these words to say about Carroll’s time at VMI: “Many in the classes after 1965 were pleased to have studied under Doc, and one member of the Class of ’69 got into medical school after only three years of undergraduate study because of Doc’s influence.”

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Keydet Athletics Baseball Announces 2016 Schedule The VMI Keydets announced their 2016 baseball schedule, a 55-game slate that will open with four games in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the weekend of Feb. 19. The slate features 2015 regional qualifiers Radford University, Mercer University, Virginia Commonwealth University and defending national champion University of Virginia, as well as in-state opponents Old Dominion University, Longwood University, the University of Richmond, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University and James Madison University.

VMI’s 25 road games begin with a tournament at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, where the Keydets get things started with a Feb. 19 doubleheader against University of Maryland, Baltimore County. The twinbill will double the number of games VMI has played all-time against the Retrievers, following a 15-5 Keydet victory in 1998.

VMI then plays Georgetown University Feb. 20 and Wake Forest the following day to round out opening weekend before traveling to Davenport Field to face the defending College World Series Champions, the Virginia Cavaliers, Feb. 23. The Institute will be looking for its third consecutive win over UVa. All told, the Keydets are scheduled to play 30 games at the friendly confines of Gray-Minor Stadium, beginning with a three-game series against Lafayette College that opens Feb. 26. It

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continues a stretch of the two teams playing every other season that has run since 2002.

A quick trip to Richmond is set for March 1 before the Keydets come home for a 12-game homestand that, if all the games are played, would be VMI’s longest stretch of consecutive games at home since 2006.

It includes single games with Longwood, now coached by Ryan Mau, former VMI associate head coach, and VCU, as well as three-game series with Binghamton University, the University of Maryland-Eastern Shore and Rider University.

The highlight, however, comes March 8, when James Madison, coached by former longtime VMI skipper Marlin Ikenberry ’95, comes to town for the beginning of a home and home (VMI goes to Harrisonburg April 12).

The Keydets finally leave Lexington March 22, when they travel to Norfolk to face Old Dominion in a two-game series, but the team comes right back to Gray-Minor Stadium to take on The Citadel Bulldogs for the opening weekend of Southern Conference play. VMI swept The Citadel last year at Riley Park.

March 29 brings the Virginia Tech Hokies to Lexington for only the second time in five years, and the Keydets wrap up their home series with Longwood the next day in Farmville. In addition to Mau’s presence on staff in Longwood, former Keydet pitcher Travis Thomas ’13 currently serves as the team’s volunteer assistant coach.

The Keydets open April in Greensboro, North Carolina, against the University of North Carolina-Greensboro, and then face the Radford Highlanders in a nonconference road game April 5. Radford, of course, is coming off a 2015 regional appearance and its best season in program history.

Western Carolina University comes to Lexington April 8-10, and after a game at James Madison in the midweek, VMI sojourns to Macon, Georgia, to face the defending SoCon Champion Mercer Bears in a three-game set April 15-17.

Old Dominion visits Lexington April 19, and Wofford College follows the next weekend, April 22-24. The Keydets then go to The Diamond to play VCU April 26 and take on Eastern Tennessee State University on the road April 29-May 1, which leads the team into a break for final exams.

That break ends with a May 11 home game against Radford and a three-game set with Furman University (May 13-15), also at home. That will, in fact, end the VMI home schedule, as a four-game road trip closes out the year. VMI battles Virginia Tech at English Field May 17 before facing Samford in Birmingham, Alabama, to wrap up the year (May 19-21).

The 2016 SoCon Baseball Championship is set for May 24-29 in Greenville, South Carolina, and will take place at Fluor Field, home of the Greenville Drive.

VMI Alumni Review

Keydet Athletics

2016 VMI Baseball Schedule Wake Forest Tournament Winston-Salem, N.C. Feb. 19 UMBC (Game two)

TBA Feb. 19 UMBC (Game one) 10 a.m.

Feb. 20 Georgetown

2 p.m.

Feb. 21 Wake Forest

2 p.m.

Feb. 23 Virginia 3 p.m.

Feb. 26 LAFAYETTE 3 p.m.

Feb. 27 LAFAYETTE

2 p.m.

Feb. 28 LAFAYETTE

1 p.m.

March 1 Richmond 2:30 p.m.

March 2 LONGWOOD 4 p.m.

March 4 BINGHAMTON 3 p.m.

March 5 BINGHAMTON 2 p.m.

March 6 BINGHAMTON 1 p.m.

March 8 JAMES MADISON 4 p.m.

March 11 UM - EASTERN SHORE 3 p.m.

March 12 UM - EASTERN SHORE 2 p.m.

March 13 UM - EASTERN SHORE 1 p.m.

March 15 VCU 6 p.m.

March 16 March 18 March 19 March 20 March 22 March 23 March 25 March 26 March 27 March 29 March 30 April 1 April 2 April 3 April 5 April 8 April 9 April 10 April 12 April 15

GEORGE MASON RIDER RIDER RIDER Old Dominion Old Dominion THE CITADEL* THE CITADEL* THE CITADEL* VIRGINIA TECH Longwood UNC - Greensboro* UNC - Greensboro* UNC - Greensboro* Radford WESTERN CAROLINA* WESTERN CAROLINA* WESTERN CAROLINA* James Madison Mercer*

6 p.m.

3 p.m.

2 p.m.

1 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

4 p.m.

1 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

2 p.m.

1 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

4 p.m.

1 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

Home games are in caps and played at Gray-Minor Stadium

April 16 April 17 April 19 April 22 April 23 April 24 April 26 April 29 April 30 May 1 May 11 May 13 May 14 May 15 May 17 May 19 May 20 May 21 May 24-9

Mercer* 2 p.m.

Mercer* 1 p.m.

ODU 6 p.m.

WOFFORD* 6 p.m.

WOFFORD* 4 p.m.

WOFFORD* 1 p.m.

Virginia Commonwealth 6:30 p.m.

Eastern Tennessee* 6 p.m.

Eastern Tennessee* 2 p.m.

Eastern Tennessee* 1 p.m.

RADFORD 6 p.m.

FURMAN* 6 p.m.

FURMAN* 2 p.m.

FURMAN* 11 a.m.

Virginia Tech 5:30 p.m.

Samford* 7 p.m.

Samford* 3 p.m.

Samford* 2 p.m.

SonCon Championship TBA in Greenville, S.C. - Fluor Field

* Denotes conference game

Men’s Cross-Country’s Second Place Finish Highlights Efforts at SoCon Championships Cadets Avery Martin ’16 and Sean Helmke ’16 earned Second Team All-SoCon honors while Cadet Kyle Sabourin ’19 was tabbed for the All-Freshman Team as the VMI men’s crosscountry team earned a second place finish at the 2015 SoCon Championship, contested Oct. 31 at the Furman Golf Course in Greenville, South Carolina. It was VMI’s highest conference finish in men’s cross-country since finishing second in the Big South Conference in 2005.

Martin was VMI’s top finisher for the second straight year, as he earned his second consecutive Second Team All-SoCon honor on the strength of a ninth-place finish. Martin crossed the line in 24:47 on the 8K course, nine seconds ahead of Helmke’s 24:56, which was good enough for 11th place. It was the second all-conference honor of Helmke’s career as well, after he was also honored in the Big South in 2013.

Sabourin, meanwhile, gave VMI an allfreshman team member for the second straight year by shattering his previous personal best 8K and crossing the line in 25:21.

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In finishing second, the Keydets bested East Tennessee State University by 11 points. Furman University scored 20 points to easily win the team title. Samford University finished fourth with 120 points, University of North Carolina at Greensboro (157) was fifth and Western Carolina University (169) came home sixth. The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (173), Wofford College (216), Mercer University (223) and The Citadel (247) rounded out the final team standings.

VMI’s other finishers included Daniel DeNijs ’16 (22nd) and Cadet Brandon White ’17 (23rd), who crossed the line just hundredths of a second behind Sabourin and were also recorded at 25:21. That marked a 27-second personal record for White. Cadet James Broom ’18 bested his previous personal record by nearly a minute in finishing 24th in 25:36, with Cadets Patrick Spahn ’16 (26:01/32nd), Zach Chase ’17 (26:16/39th) and Micah Ellington ’18 (26:39/52nd) rounding out the VMI results.

On the women’s side, Cadets Bethany King ’18 and Kennedy Flynn ’18 both finished in the top-34

as the Keydets finished ninth in the team standings, four points ahead of 10th-place The Citadel.

King led the way for the fifth straight race for VMI, placing 32nd with a time of 20:00. Flynn was VMI’s No. 2 runner, finishing 34th in 20:09, and Mia Castelveter ’18 was 62nd in 21:18.

In the team standings, the Keydets finished with 246 points, four points ahead of The Citadel. Furman easily won the team title, besting Chattanooga 33-52 behind individual winner Allie Buchalski. UNCG was third (99), ahead of ETSU (121) and a Samford/Western Carolina tie for fifth (141). Mercer (164) and Wofford (193) rounded out the team standings.

VMI’s other finishers included Cadets Riley Neary ’19 (22:26/66th), Christina Hill ’18 (22:30/67th), Julia Logan ’18 (23:30/71st) and Brenea Thomas ’19 (24:37/73rd). Logan and Thomas were running their first collegiate cross country races.

The Keydets wrapped up the 2015 crosscountry season Nov. 13 at the NCAA Southeast Regional Championships, which took place after press time.

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Keydet Athletics

The Institute Places Five on All-Southern Conference Football Squads Five football cadet-athletes were named to 2015 All-Southern Conference postseason teams as announced by the league office Nov. 24, 2015, in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

Wide receiver Aaron Sanders ’17 and return specialist Dane Forlines ’17 were both tabbed to the 2015 First Team All-Southern Conference Coaches and Media teams. Redshirt sophomore inside linebacker Ryan Francis ’17 and redshirt junior defensive lineman Joe Nelson ’16 were voted Second Team All-SoCon by the media, and wide receiver Dontae Mauck ’19 was voted AllFreshman Offensive Team by the league coaches.

“The VMI Football family is honored to have these five cadet-athletes recognized on All Southern Conference Football teams,” said Scott Wachenheim, head football coach. “Football is the ultimate team sport, and these awards recognize the accomplishments of every football team member and the VMI Corps of Cadets this season.”

A capsule of each player’s 2015 season highlights follows.

Sanders led the Southern Conference in receiving yards per game (81.1) and receptions per game (7.6). He caught a school season record 84 passes for 892 yards, surpassing the 73 catches of Mark Stock ’88 in 1988. He set a new single game record for receptions in a game when he hauled in 16 catches for 218 yards against Mercer University Oct. 24. The receiving 218

yards against Mercer was the third highest total in VMI history and earned him SoCon Offensive Player of the Week honors. Saunders started the season with 13 catches for 118 yards and a touchdown against Ball State University Sept. 2.

He had 10 catches for 164 yards against Wofford College Oct. 31 and caught at least five passes in all but one game, extending his consecutive games reception streak to 27 games dating back to the 2013 season.

Forlines ranked second in the Southern Conference in all-pur- Ryan Francis ’17, No. 44, pursued the quarterback during pose running with 112.2 yards the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga game Oct. 17. per game and led the SoCon in against The Citadel and had double-digit tackles punt returns averaging 12.9 yards per return with a long of 49 yards against Samford University. in eight of 11 games. He posted three tacklesHe accounted for 266 all-purpose yards against for-loss for 8 yards against Furman University Samford when he returned three punts for 83 and logged 12-tackle games against Ball State yards, four kickoffs for 84 yards and caught seven and Samford.

Nelson saw time at both defensive tackle and passes for 106 yards. He was second on the team in receptions (53) and receiving yards (690), and defensive end during his redshirt junior season he complied three 100-yard receiving games on and led all Keydet linemen with 52 total tackles.

He also posted 4.5 tackles for loss, which led all the year (9-101-Morehead State University), (7-106-Samford), (9-140-Western Carolina Uni- VMI linemen, as well. Nelson tied season-high versity). Forlines made clutch reception to set with eight tackles and set a 2015 best with 1.5 up the game winning 34-yard field goal against TFL against No. 6 University of TennesseeChattanooga. He also had eight stops in season Morehead State Sept. 12.

Francis led the team in tack- opening game at FBS Ball State and forced a les with 115 total stops, includ- fumble in season finale against Western Carolina. He is credited with three pass breakups in ing 54 solo hits which also topped the team. He ranked first four games of season and had key quarterthird in the Southern Confer- back hurry on the opponent’s final drive to help ence in tackles per game with preserve the win at Mercer.

Mauck averaged a team leading 28.5 yards per 10.5 per contest and ranked second on the team in tackles catch and caught 15 passes for 427 yards. He was for loss with 9.5. He broke second on the team in touchdown receptions up passes in Morehead State, with three and also rushed 14 times for 87 yards and a touchdown. He started his career with an Bucknell and Mercer University games and finished 80-yard touchdown reception against Ball State the season with career-high in the season opener and caught touchdown back-to-back 15-tackle efforts passes against Samford (27 yards) and Chattanooga (69 yards). Mauck rushed for a 42-yard against The Citadel (10 solo Aaron Saunders ’17, No. 21, with a 36-yard completion during hits) and Western Carolina. touchdown against Bucknell and caught a pass a home game versus Wofford College Oct. 31.

Francis forced two fumbles in all but one game of the season.

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VMI Alumni Review

Keydet Athletics

Ludtke Named New VMI Distance Coach Dr. Drew Ludtke was named the new distance coach for VMI track and field and crosscountry, according to information released by the program Sept. 16, 2015. He replaced Jennifer Fazioli, who left in late August to accept a job at Texas Christian University.

Ludtke, who joined the VMI staff as an assistant track and field/cross-country coach, came to VMI from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, where he served as head women’s cross-country coach and an assistant in the women’s track and field program.

On the cross-country course at UW-Oshkosh, Ludtke coached three runners to top-10 finishes at the WIAC Championship, two runners to top-10 placings at the NCAA Division III Midwest Regional and one national champion, Christy Cazzola, who won the 2012 Division III cross-country title.

Ludtke’s track teams are coming off back-toback NCAA Division III titles, including in 2013, when he shared head coaching duties and was named Co-National Coach of the Year. On the track, he has coached 14 NCAA champions at the mid-distances and up.

In 2014, Ludtke’s UW-Oshkosh Titans placed second at the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championship and seventh at the Midwest Regional, their second straight seventh-place finish at that event. 2012 had seen Cazzola win the conference, regional and national titles under Ludtke’s tutelage, while the Titans finished 29th at the national meet, fourth at the regional event and third at the conference competition. Cazzola was named the NCAA Division III Athlete of the Year.

In 2013, Ludtke shared the head coaching duties of the UW-Oshkosh track and field program and was named the National Indoor CoCoach of the Year after helping the Titans to the NCAA Division III title. He coached Cazzola to five national records and the distance medley relay team to one. The Titans went on to win the national title again the following season, with Ludtke acting as an assistant.

Ludtke was the head coach of cross-country and track and field at the University of St. Francis in Illinois from 2005-12. In cross-country,

2016-Issue 1

Ludtke guided the University of St. Francis men to Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference titles each of his final two seasons. The Saints finished 13th at the 2011 NAIA Championship and 14th in 2010. Those national appearances were the first in program history.

Ludtke was named the CCAC Men’s crosscountry Coach of the Year in 2010 and 2011. During those seasons, 13 Saints gained all-conference honors. In 2011, the University of St. Francis women appeared in the NAIA Top 25 for the first time.

As the University of St. Francis track and field coach, Ludtke improved each program immensely. Ludtke had two men gain AllAmerica status in the 5,000-meter run at the 2012 National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Outdoor Championship.

Indoors, his women earned a pair of AllAmerica awards, the first in program history.

Ludtke was the head coach of cross-country and track and field at Lake Superior State University in Michigan from 2002-05. During that time, the Lakers qualified nine athletes for the NCAA Division II championships.

From 2000-02, Ludtke was the head crosscountry coach and assistant track and field coach at NCAA Division I University of North Texas. His men’s cross-country team won the Sun Belt Conference title in 2000 and placed second in 2001.

Ludtke competed at Lake Superior State University and the University of North Texas from 1995-2000. He was a member of Lake Superior State University’s 1996 men’s basketball Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship team.

At the University of North Texas, Ludtke participated in cross-country and track and field. He helped the Mean Green to the Sun Belt Conference cross-country title in 2000.

After earning his bachelor’s degree from Lake Superior State University in 1999, Ludtke received a master’s degree from the University of North Texas in 2001 and a doctorate degree from Olivet Nazarene University in Illinois in 2011.

Ludtke and his wife, Jen, have a daughter, Deena, and son, Tyler.

Women’s Soccer Shows Much Improvement During 2015 T he VMI women’s soccer program wrapped up its 2015 season in the quarterfinals of the Southern Conference Tournament Oct. 31, as the Keydets dropped a 3-0 decision to No. 1 Samford University on the road. The Keydets got to that game with a dramatic shootout advancement against the University of Tennessee - Chattanooga in the first round; the first time VMI had gotten past the opening round of a conference tournament since the 2009 campaign.

The team posted a number of solid results, however, as it finished at 6-13-2 overall, including conference wins over The Citadel and Chattanooga. That marked the third-most wins in school history and the most since the program won seven in 2009. The team also scored 30 goals; the most since scoring 37 in 2008 and more than it had notched in the previous three seasons combined.

Individually, Cadet Darien Dunham ’19 set a new school record for saves in a season and became the first Keydet goalkeeper to post over four shutouts in a year. Dunham also entered the SoCon Tournament ranked in the top-10 in Division I in saves per game, although the final statistics were not available until after press time. In addition, Cadet Olivia Cotton ’19 tied for the fourth most points in team history by a freshman with 14 points.

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

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VMI Foundation, Inc. Message from the VMI Foundation CEO

by Brian Scott Crockett

As you read this, Super Bowl 50 might be just a couple of days away or a very recent memory.

Like most Americans, I cannot resist watching the game, even if my team – the New York Giants – is not playing.

While there is a lot of chatter about the commercials and the halftime show, most people focus on what happens on the field. Long after the ads and the music fade into memory, we will remember the big plays, the hard hits and the standout performances, and we will recall that great moment when the winning team is presented with the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

Every time I watch the players and coaches hoist the Lombardi Trophy, I know that before the last bit of confetti hits the turf, people will be thinking, “Can they repeat?” It seems unfair to do so at this moment of triumph, but it’s not surprising. Success always sets the bar higher. “A Super Bowl win is great. Let’s go for the repeat!”

If the team is successful doing that, there will be calls for a “three-peat,” and if that works out, the establishment of a “dynasty.” The expectations never diminish, and the pressure on coaches, managers, owners and players never lets up.

Repeating as a championship team is not just a matter of bringing everyone back for the next season. First off, not everyone will return.

Players will retire or sign with another team.

Coaches will pursue new opportunities, and a successful general manager might be lured away.

The competition won’t stay the same, either.

Every team will strive to improve through the draft and attracting experienced coaches and proven free agents. During the season, there will be injuries and upsets. Despite all that, however, the expectation for success will remain.

It’s much the same at VMI. The Institute has carried out its mission of graduating well-educated, honorable and purposeful citizen-soldiers for so long and with such success that there is a

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permanent expectation that it will continue to do so. Like a football team looking to repeat a championship, there is a lot the Institute must do to continue its winning ways. For example, it needs to continue to attract and retain the best possible faculty and ensure a continuity of strong and effective senior leadership. It must recruit the best and the brightest for the Corps of Cadets.

Its facilities must be maintained and improved, and its technological infrastructure must be kept up to date. Services to cadets – and the people who provide them – must be first-rate.

Doing all this and everything else that is necessary to keep VMI strong has never been easy. It becomes more challenging every year, and every year it becomes more expensive. Ten years ago, the Institute’s operating costs totaled roughly $52 million. For the 2015-16 academic year, they will be $84 million. As the cost of maintaining excellence at VMI increases, the need for private support grows at an even higher rate.

Thankfully, VMI has thousands of loyal alumni and friends who support the Institute through immediate gifts, planned gifts and planned giving commitments. As the graphic above shows, thanks to their generosity, one out of every four dollars that the Institute spends

on its operations this year will be as a result of donors’ generosity.

This private money has allowed VMI to keep up with its competition and continue its championship performance. But, just like a football team that wants to continue winning titles, it can’t stop looking for ways to improve its performance. That’s why it launched An Uncommon Purpose, A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI. Through this campaign, the Institute is raising the resources necessary to improve every aspect of the Institute’s renowned education and make sure that VMI can offer deserving cadets the scholarship aid they need to attend and earn their diploma.

I am proud that the VMI Foundation is at the forefront of this effort and even prouder of the immense outpouring of support from alumni and friends. I take great pride in knowing that an expectation of success is synonymous with a VMI diploma. If you are part of the team of generous donors who are helping VMI continue its success, thank you. If you have not had the opportunity to be part of this effort, visit the campaign website (vmi.edu/campaign) to learn more. I promise you, this is one team you will want to be on when the confetti hits the turf!

VMI Alumni Review

VMI Foundation, Inc.

Fall Reunion Campaigns Enjoy Success The two fall 2015 reunion weekends saw brother rats of the classes celebrating their 25th and 10th Reunions come together – not just to renew their ties with each other and the Institute, but also to support the Institute through their Reunion Campaigns.

With 205 brother rats supporting it, the Class of 1990’s 25th Reunion Campaign enjoyed an impressive participation rate of 57.7 percent.

The initial proceeds of this effort that the class presented Sept.12, totaled $1,077,119 in donations and commitments – most of which came in the form of immediate gifts and five-year pledges of support.

Presenting the initial proceeds of its 10th Reunion Campaign Oct. 10, the Class of 2005 beat its goals of 40 percent participation and $205,000 in fundraising. The class’ initial gift came to $255,733, and 43.8 percent of the class made a gift or commitment. As with the Class of 1990, most of the money was given in the form of immediate gifts.

“Thanks to their strong leadership, both fall reunion classes pulled together in an admirable way in support of VMI,” said John J. Wranek III ’85, VMI Foundation vice president for annual and reunion giving. “Both campaigns stressed the need for immediate support of the Institute, and in both cases, the alumni heeded that message, meaning that the bulk of the amount raised will go to work on post immediately.”

“It is important to note,” Wranek continued, “that in both cases, the participation rates reported and the amounts presented at the reunion parades are preliminary. Brother rats in both of these classes have until the end of 2015 to join these efforts.”

“Reunion campaigns always are important efforts that have strengthened VMI immeasurably. During the past several years, they also have added tens of millions of dollars to the grand total raised through An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI,” said Brian Scott Crockett, VMI Foundation chief executive officer. “Everyone in the VMI family owes the Class of 1990 and the Class of 2005 a debt of thanks for their hard work and generosity.”

2016-Issue 1

Class of 1990: Presenting the Class of 1990’s gift were Rob Clark, class agent; Hunter Trumbo, reunion campaign chairman; and Charles Plageman, class president. Accepting on behalf of the Institute and the VMI Alumni Agencies were, from far left, Hugh M. Fain III ’80, president of the VMI Foundation; and E.J. Turner Perrow Jr. ’96, president of the VMI Alumni Association, as well as Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, far right.

Class of 2005: Peay thanked Timothy M. Johnson ’05, chairman of the Class of 2005 Reunion Campaign Committee, who presented the class’ gift along with Paul T. Bryan and Shore A. Stokes, reunion campaign committee members. Also accepting the gift were, from far left, Warren J. Bryan ’71, vice president of the VMI Foundation, and Robert P. Louthan ’82, first vice president of the VMI Alumni Association.

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VMI Foundation, Inc.

VMI Calling

by Cadet Tyler J. Lighton ’15 There is no doubt about it: Members of the VMI family love being engaged with the Institute. Every year, hundreds of alumni return to post for reunion weekends, homecoming and other events. Hundreds more attend other events – such as commemorations of New Market Day and athletic competitions – all over the country and the world. However, for many alumni and friends, direct contact with the Institute – and above all, its cadets – is limited.

There is another way alumni and friends get in touch with the Institute and the young men and women of the Corps of Cadets. Better yet, it demands very little effort on their part – all they need to do is answer the telephone. It is the VMI Call Center, which has helped raise money on behalf of VMI and its cadets since 1978.

The call center began making calls for the 2015-16 academic year Sept. 14. With the sole exception of Denise Koch, VMI Call Center manager, the work is conducted by 19 cadets who are on the phones Monday through Thursday from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Although the center’s work is fundraising, there is much more to it than just asking for a donation. According to Koch, the process includes building a rapport with potential donors and educating them about the importance of private support to VMI and the impact it has on post. “Through these efforts,” said Koch, “we are fostering a culture of philanthropy which pays dividends for every cadet in the Corps.”

According to Koch, because the cadets understand the importance of their work, they take it seriously. “The cadets realize it is extremely important that we don’t lose any time, because we need to get in touch with as many members of the VMI family as we can each night. They arrive early so that they’re ready to make their first call at 6 p.m.”

Before every shift, Koch provides cadets with the names and numbers of people they will be calling. “Our call list is separated into various segments. On a typical night, I assign the cadets to a particular group within the segment we are reaching out to that night,” Koch stated. She also emphasized that all gifts count toward An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI. While working in the call center is one of the

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Photo caption:

Cadets of the VMI Call Center pictured were, from left, Shelby Van Zandt ’17, Julie Fouse ’17, Shane Bohn ’15, Tyler Hurd ’17, Michael Gates ’17 and Matthew Outland ’17. Photo by Micalyn Miller. few paying jobs for cadets on post, money is not the only benefit. When asked about his experiences, Andrew Kelley ’17 said, “I look forward to each shift. It is an incredible opportunity to speak with people who have been successful in civilian and military careers.” There is also valuable leadership experience to be had. New this year to the call center are “shift leaders,” who mentor callers and provide constructive advice on interacting with donors.

There is also another important element to the call center’s work: “Creating a culture of philanthropy, a culture that generates the kind of generosity necessary to ensure a strong future for VMI, means that we’re responsible for more than just asking for money. It is an absolute must that we steward our donors and let them know we appreciate everything they do for VMI,” said Koch. This year, after a caller receives a gift or pledge, he or she records a short thank you video and sends the YouTube link for the video to the donor by email. On some nights, instead of raising money, the cadets conduct “thank-athons,” calling alumni, parents and others just to thank them for their support.

Through their work, the cadets of the VMI

Call Center are helping the Institute achieve its goal of remaining a highly respected college with an uncommon purpose, a glorious past and a brilliant future. They are also giving alumni and friends the ability to speak directly to some of the young people who are benefiting from their generosity and, by doing so, hear that the Institute remains true to its roots and its mission.

Correction In the article titled, “Class of 1965 50th Reunion Campaign,” which appeared on pages 171-72 in the 2015-Issue 4 Alumni Review, W. Gregory Robertson ’65 is misidentified as Harry J. Bartosik ’65. We apologize to both Robertson and Bartosik for this mistake.

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

VMI Alumni Review

The Keydet Club Keydet Club Hosts 2015 Scholarship Awards Banquet Acuff ’71 Delivers Inspiring and Moving Remarks The VMI Keydet Club hosted a record and parents,” concluded Cavallaro. their educations possible,” said Greg Cavalcrowd of nearly 800 VMI cadet-athletes, Wes Foster ’56 said about the event, “We laro ’84, Keydet Club chief executive officer. parents, endowed scholarship donors, an- “Allowing our cadet-athletes an opportunity were very impressed with the Keydet Club’s nual full scholarship donors, fund repre- to interact with VMI benefactors and to Scholarship Awards Banquet. It was so nice sentatives, coaches and VMI administrators to meet the cadets on our scholarships and be inspired, challenged and motivated by in Crozet Hall for the Scholarship Awards outstanding guest speakers gives them a see how much it means to their parents. I Banquet Oct. 17, 2015. was only able to attend VMI and walk on glimpse of what their futures could hold.

The event started off with a cato the football team because of det welcome and dinner blessing three or four alumni scholarships,

by Cadet Al Cobb ’17, quarterback so I know the impact and the for the Keydet football team. Follifelong opportunities attending lowing dinner, Keydet Club staff VMI gave me. The entire evening members Donnie Ross ’74, Anwas outstanding – just wonderful. drew Deal ’12 and Doug Bartlett Betty and I should have been recognized all of the scholarship coming every year. We will from donors and/or fund representanow on.” tives who were in attendance, Following remarks on the state along with the cadet-athletes from of VMI athletics and a warm inthe individual teams. troduction by Gen. J.H. Binford Following the recognition of Peay III ’62, VMI superintenthe scholarship donors and fund dent, this year’s guest speaker, representatives, the Keydet Club Special guest speaker Jerry Acuff ’71 connected with his audience. Gerald J. Acuff Jr. ’71, did not then awarded the prestigious disappoint with his inspirational Three-Legged Stool Award, given and moving remarks that culmito the scholarship-athlete who nated with a rousing standing best exemplifies the three legs of ovation. (Editor’s Note: Please the VMI proverbial stool: highvisit http://vmi.edu/Content. est in academics, leadership and aspx?id=10737433596 to read the athletics. The idea of the VMI speech in its entirety.) three-legged stool was coined by Dr. David Diles, VMI director the late Giles Miller ’924, one of of intercollegiate athletics, said, VMI’s most legendary alumni, in “The scholarship banquet, as describing VMI’s well-rounded always, affirms the dedication of educational mission. This year’s the VMI community that annuaward went to Cadet David Geary ally steps up to support the edu’16, who currently wears academcation of our cadet athletes. Our ic stars as an applied mathematics cadet-athletes, coaches and the major, serves as the president of entire department are sincerely the VMI Honor Court and is a Baseball cadet-athletes Jacob Ottinger ’19 and Kyle Staats ’18 en- grateful for not only the scholarcaptain of the VMI baseball team. joyed the evening with fund representatives Betty and Donny White ship support, but for the warm (Editor’s Note: See article on page ’65 and Linda and Irwin McCumber. relationships that exist between 190 for more on Cadet Geary ’16.) our scholarship donors and those “This Parents Weekend banquet tradition that benefit from their support.”

“As meaningful as the dinner is for the has become the most important annual For more information on next year’s bancadet-athletes, it is also encouraging to hear event for the Keydet Club. It is so encourag- from so many of those who generously sup- quet or how to join in the effort to support ing to bring together all of our scholarship port VMI athletics as to how inspired they VMI’s cadet-athletes, please contact the Keycadet-athletes and many of the generous are after having spent such a meaningful and det Club at 800-444-1839, or visit the Keydet donors and fund representatives, who make engaging evening with their cadet-athlete Club’s website at www.vmi.edu/keydetclub.

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The Keydet Club

Cadet David Geary ’16 Awarded Keydet Club’s Three-Legged Stool Cadet David Geary ’16 was presented with the VMI Keydet Club’s Three-Legged Stool Award at its 2015 Scholarship Athletes Recognition Banquet Oct. 17, 2015. The award recognizes a 1st Class scholarship-athlete who has the highest achievements in academics, leadership and athletics. Geary matriculated from Benedictine High School in Richmond, Virginia. He is an applied mathematics major, president of the VMI Honor Court and leader on VMI’s Division I baseball team.

Over the years, Geary has proved to be a valuable utility player on the baseball teams because of his ability to play numerous positions, including first and third bases. Geary is a consistent and reliable fixture in the middle of the Keydets’ line up as left-handed batter. As a three-year starter, he will be a team captain this year. Not only is Geary a leader on the baseball field, he is also serving in his second year as a member of the VMI Honor Court and has one of the biggest leadership responsibilities in the Class of 2016 as president of this year’s honor court.

While Geary leads in athletics and leadership, his accomplishments in the classroom are also inspiring. As an applied mathematics major, he has been on the dean’s list every semester of his cadetship. He proudly wears academic stars for this achievement and boasts a GPA exceeding 3.5. When asked about Geary, Jonathan Hadra ’04, head baseball coach at VMI, said, “I can’t say enough positive things about David. He brings such a positive attitude and energy to the field every day that lifts his teammates and coaches up. He is a great representation of what the complete VMI experience is all about.”

Cadet David Geary ’16 made acceptance remarks after receiving the Three-Legged Stool Award.

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From left, Coach Jon Hadra ’04, Bromby Earle, Cadet Geary ’16, Bob Earle ’63 and Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent.

Past Three-Legged Stool Recipients Cadet Recipients John D. Simmons ’02 – soccer (2001) Michael N. Lokale ’03 – track (2002) Matthew D. Sharpe ’04 – football (2003) Ty E. Denby ’05 – track (2004) Christopher J. Brandriff ’06 – track (2005) Michael D. Lloyd ’07 – soccer (2006) Thomas E. Cunningham ’08 – wrestling (2007) K. Barrett Luxhoj ’09 – soccer (2008) Audrey E. Falconi ’10 – women’s soccer (2009) Hannah E. Granger ’11 – women’s track (2010) Matthew R. Brock ’12 – wrestling (2011) Joseph I. Munno ’12 – wrestling (2011) Jenna K. Moye ’13 – women’s track (2012) Stanley O. Okoye ’13 – basketball (2012) Edward P. Gottwald ’14 – wrestling (2013) Tyler L. Prasnicki ’15 – lacrosse (2014)

Alumni Recipients

Giles H. Miller Jr. ’924 (2001)

G. Gilmer Minor III ’63 (2006)

Elmon T. Gray ’46 (2007)

VMI Alumni Review

The Keydet Club

Coach Doug Bartlett Lacrosse Scholarship Created In fall 2015, in conjunction with a lacrosse reunion and alumni game, the Keydet Club was proud to announce the creation of a new lacrosse scholarship – the Coach Doug Bartlett Lacrosse Scholarship. The scholarship was

Coach Doug Bartlett, center.

created through the generosity of VMI lacrosse alumni and families in honor of former VMI men’s lacrosse coach, Doug Bartlett – who served as head coach for 21 years – in appreciation for his dedication and commitment to VMI and its cadet-athletes.

Former lacrosse cadet-athletes, whose initial generosity kick-started the scholarship, had much to say about the scholarship and Bartlett. Jack Collins ’92 stated, “VMI lacrosse is experiencing a long-overdue renaissance, and the commitment from VMI to turn this program into a winner is very encouraging. However, if Coach Birsner and the team are going to have a legitimate chance to win, they must be funded at levels commensurate with those we compete against. The time is now for all former lacrosse alumni to step up and do what they can do for a sport they love and which has given them so much.”

“Coach Bartlett is the father of VMI lacrosse,” explained Tom Ripley ’93. “Over the span of three decades, Coach B. has guided this program through his personal leadership and conviction. He is a friend, a mentor and the standard bearer of the

VMI lacrosse culture. What better way to recognize Doug’s contribution than through this scholarship? It ensures an opportunity for future Keydet athletes to have a linkage back to Coach Bartlett and all that he embodies. ‘Lex-Vegas, baby!’”

Coach Jon Birsner, VMI’s new head lacrosse coach and a 2006 graduate of The U.S. Naval Academy – where he was twice named AllAmerican – enthusiastically said, “You cannot talk about VMI lacrosse without mentioning the profound impact Coach Doug Bartlett has had on this program and on the cadet-athletes he taught and mentored. Creating a scholarship in his name allows his incredible legacy, as the heart of our program, to continue forever, and this scholarship will allow my staff and me to recruit better and more competitive prospect cadet-athletes.”

The scholarship provides grant-in-aid to a cadet-athlete who is a member of VMI’s Division I lacrosse team. The Keydet Club hopes an initial endowment of $250,000 can be created.

Gifts to the lacrosse scholarship endowment or to the Team Scholarship Fund – Lacrosse, honoring “Coach,” may be sent to the Keydet Club at P.O. Box 932, Lexington, VA, 24450.

Spirit of VMI Award Presented to Don Heslep ’56 At halftime of the VMI versus the University of TennesseeChattanooga Parents Weekend football game, the VMI Keydet Club presented Don Heslep ’56 with the Keydet Club’s highest honor: The Spirit of VMI Award.

Heslep matriculated from Fairfield, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He was commissioned as an armor officer in the U.S. Army from 1956-58. In 1959, he began what would be a four year stint with DuPont Construction, leading to a 23-year career owning his own business, Donald B. Heslep Incorporated – a large custom homebuilder and light commercial builder in Richmond, Virginia. From 1989 to the present, Heslep developed and built Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent; Jo Heslep; and Greg Cavallaro ’84, Keydet Club chief executive officer, look on as Dr. Dave Diles, VMI director of intercollegiate athletics, congratulated Don Heslep ’56, Keydet Club Spirit of VMI Award recipient.

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The Keydet Club Oasis Sport Park, and he developed, built and managed office warehouse complexes and storage facilities throughout Richmond.

Heslep has been steady and visible in his support for VMI’s cadet-athletes and coaches over the course of his nearly 60 years as an alumnus of VMI and member of the Keydet Club. In 2014, Heslep completed a second six-year term as a member of the Keydet Club Board of Governors and has been a generous leadership member in both the Keydet Club and Foundation’s Institute Society, going back to the late 1970s.

When presenting the award to Heslep, Greg Cavallaro ’84, Keydet Club chief executive officer, said, “The 1956 VMI yearbook, known as the Bomb, had this to say about Don Heslep, and I quote: ‘A very substantial cadet. His classmates know this gentlemanly son of Virginia’s beautiful and historic valley as a quiet and dependable country boy who is destined to reflect great credit on his alma mater.’ Well, Don Heslep did not let his alma mater down. In fact, it should be known that, in May 2014, Don Heslep and his wife, Jo, gave the VMI Keydet Club its first outright cash gift ever of $1 million. The first – ever!

His leadership inspired many others to step up at this critical juncture in support of VMI athletics, which lead to a record this past fiscal year for annual and endowment gifts to the Keydet Club.”

As Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, and Dr. David Diles, VMI director of intercollegiate athletics, unveiled the Spirit of VMI Award, Cavallaro concluded, “Your financial generosity through the creation of Heslep Family Football Scholarship Endowment, as well as your annual full scholarship support, have been critical to the Keydet Club’s efforts to assist with the funding of VMI’s Division I athletic program.

“You are most deserving of this award, and on behalf of the Keydet Club Board of Governors, the entire VMI family and especially the countless cadet-athletes who have been the direct beneficiaries of your generosity, I thank you and am proud to present you with the Keydet Club’s highest honor: The Spirit of VMI Award.”

Editor’s Note: Unless stated otherwise, the articles and photos in the Keydet Club section of the Alumni Review are provided by the Keydet Club.

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Class of 1966 Scores Huge Assist for VMI Basketball Following discussions with Duggar Baucom, previous VMI head basketball coach, members of the VMI Class of 1966 stepped up to fund the purchase of the Noah Basketball Shooting System – a piece of equipment which improves shooting percentages by developing confidence, builds muscle memory and enhances shooting performance. The system works by providing immediate, objective verbal feedback on each individual player’s shooting technique. This feedback allows players to self-correct their shot and build muscle memory as Noah tracks all shots from the free throw line and beyond – including mid-range jump shots and all three point shots.

Cliff Martin ’66, class organizer, was very excited by the outpouring of support from over 40 members of the Class of 1966 who participated by donating $6,066 to cover the cost of the equipment and leaving extra money for the benefit of the basketball program. “We’re very proud that VMI basketball has made a comeback, and we hope this machine will help continue that growth. Who knows, maybe this will help VMI basketball to get back to the NCAA Tournament,” remarked Martin.

When presented with the Noah Basketball Shooting System, Dan Earl, new VMI head basketball coach, shared that the team uses it in individual workouts with different drills, and the impact on a number of the players’ free throws and outside shooting is remarkable. “This really has made an impact, and we are very appreciative of Cliff Martin and all of the brother rats in the Class of ’66 who support VMI basketball. Their support has and will continue to pay dividends for VMI basketball,” commented Earl.

VMI Alumni Review

Nov. 11, 2015