2018-Issue 3 VMI Alumni Review

VMI

2018 - Issue 3

Alumni Review

Same Information - New Sections As we consider the reorganization of the VMI Alumni Agencies, we are also taking a strategic approach to how the content falls within the pages of the Alumni Review with you, the reader, in mind.

We have not removed any sections, just recategorized them. For example, all athletics stories, NCAA or club sports, will be in one section. Academics and military content is in a section titled “On Post.” Fundraising progress is grouped in a section titled “Progress.”

Take a look at a few of the new sections included in this issue:

On Post Highlights the academic and military aspects of the Institute today

Athletics Season recaps, cadet-athlete recognition and upcoming schedules for your Keydet sports

Progress Financial support for continuing the mission of VMI: Reunion giving, scholarships and other gifts to the Institute

Events Find all chapter and Alumni Agencies event coverage here

Staff News Updates on staff members of the VMI Alumni Agencies

Class Notes Class Notes now feature red corner tabs on every page to make finding news about your BRs easier than ever

Class Notes

Contents

Virginia Military Institute Alumni Review 2018-Issue 3

In This Issue . . .

This issue includes class notes and news items covering the time period of Feb. 15, 2018, to May 15, 2018.

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Our Alumni Serving Safety in the Sea: Long ’16 Serves as Surface Rescue Swimmer 8 Williamson ’60 Writes About VMI Legacy of Service 10 VMI Alumni Commission into Navy Civil Engineer Corps

In Memory 11 Col. James J. Hentz ................................................................................

Features 12 Bowman ’73 Doctors from the Heart 15 Rankin ’68 Helps Wounded Warriors, Families 17 Kosecki ’09: Serving Others – Fighting Cancer 18 Kroner ’17 Serves Refugee Populations in Ohio 20 50th Anniversary of Racial Integration at VMI 24 First Spring Reunion April 20-21, 2018 28 Second Spring Reunion April 23-24, 2018 ................................................................................

News and Updates

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PUBLISHER The Chief Executive Officer of the VMI Alumni Agencies

CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER: Amy Goetz Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Whitman Assistant Editor: Molly Rolon

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Volume 95, No. 2

2 33 44 48 59 64 68 192 194 201 205 206 208

Message from the Agencies Board Chairman On Post Athletics Events Progress Staff News Class Notes Provisional Appointments Taps Alumni News Alumni Agencies Directory VMI Alumni Chapter Directory Calendar of Events

ALUMNI REVIEW ONLINE www.vmialumi.org/alumnireview

PUBLISHING OFFICE The VMI Alumni Agencies 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 Agencies, 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.

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 Front Cover: Cadets march down Letcher Avenue during the 2018 New Market parade. VMI photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

Inside Back Cover: Graduation 2018. Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

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Message from the VMI Alumni Agencies Board Chairman T. Bryan Barton ’68

Apart from my service as an Army officer, I spent my entire professional career working for IBM. Over the course of more than 40 years, I had a front row seat at the technological revolution that swept American business, government and society. It was an exciting time. New products and services were introduced at what seemed to be an ever-faster pace.

Certainly some organizations were deeply interested in the latest technology breakthroughs, and there were always technical details to be considered and discussed. What struck me was how our customers described their primary interest in technology. It was not necessarily having the newest and most innovative products.

Instead, they were more often interested in how a new technology or a new technology-enabled product could help them serve their customers better, to provide them with a better experience, or to deliver a product or service more effectively. In other words, they were interested in outcomes. Businesses had an eye on the bottom line, and government agencies focused on accomplishing their mission more effectively and efficiently.

In a sense, this may be a helpful way to think of the work of the VMI Alumni Agencies – the VMI Alumni Association, the VMI Foundation and the VMI Keydet Club – in terms of outcomes. It is tempting to gauge the success of what the Agencies do in terms of the number of events held, how many alumni return for reunions, how many members of the VMI family made a gift or commitment or how much money was raised. Of course, we pay attention to these numbers, because they are useful internal indicators of success and provide benchmarks we can use to evaluate our processes and programs. Yet, as important as the amount of Barton ’68 support raised in a fiscal year or whether internal measurements were met is, it is more important to consider how this support affects the ability of the Institute to attract the best and brightest cadets, field the best possible athletic teams, draw the VMI family closer together and, overall, accomplish its critical mission.

In May 2018, VMI conducted its inaugural Day of Giving. It was an undeniable success: 868 donors gave more than $170,000 in a 24-hour period.

They also unlocked $100,000 in challenge gifts, bringing the day’s grand total to $270,859. As impressive as the numbers are, what is more significant is that most of the money raised went to the Foundation Fund and Keydet Club Scholarship Fund and, therefore, will be put to immediate use to support the education that VMI provides to its cadets.

The work of the Alumni Agencies is important because of the outcomes they enable. It might be useful to consider that the generosity of alumni and friends has been the foundation for improvements in every aspect of the Institute’s extraordinary educational experience. In the case of the just completed An Uncommon Purpose: A Glorious Past, A Brilliant Future: The Campaign for VMI, consider that it will translate for many years into a continuation of the remarkable improvements in the education and program that VMI provides. Please also consider the life-changing impact that donations to the various forms of scholarships – need-based, merit and athletic – have on the cadets who receive support through them: Opportunities provided, horizons widened, doors opened, potentials realized and lives transformed.

Everyone associated with VMI wants the Institute to be in a position to provide the best possible education for current and future generations of cadets. These outcomes drive every action by those involved with the VMI Alumni Agencies and what has prompted our successful reorganization.

Each gift matters, because it makes a difference in the life of a cadet, their future as graduates and the lasting reputation of VMI. Thank you for your continuing generosity and support for VMI and the Corps of Cadets.

T. Bryan Barton ’68

(Editor’s Note: Barton became the chairman of the VMI Alumni Agencies Board July 1, 2018. He is a retired vice president and partner with IBM Corporation. At IBM, he held management positions in sales, marketing, product development, consulting and professional services. Currently president of the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees, Barton has been a trustee of the VMI Foundation since 2008, and before becoming its president in 2017, he was the organization’s vice president-development.)

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VMI Alumni Review

Our Alumni Serving Recognizing Those Who Serve Others in Their Communities, Country and the World Are you or someone you know serving the community, country or the world? Send in a photo and a description of what you’re doing, where and for whom. See instructions below.

The VMI Alumni Agencies would like to pay tribute to our citizen-soliders, who are, as Col. J.T.L. Preston said and as printed on the parapet, “an honor to our country and our state, objects of honest pride to their instructors ... and ready in 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, legislators, doctors offering their services to those less fortunate, alumni volunteering at food pantries or

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serving as Boy or Girl Scout troop 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: Assistant Editor. We will review your submission and consider it for publication.

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Safety in the Sea: Long ’16 Serves as Surface Rescue Swimmer

by Elaine Wood, Contributing Writer

Raymond Long ’16 prepares to be hoisted out of the water with the rescue strop, which is used to lift uninjured military personnel during helicopter operations.

“VMI definitely prepared me well. ... The biggest factor for completing [surface rescue swimmer] school is having the toughness to see it through and not quit, and I think any cadet would have the mental tenacity to see it through.”

The idea of plunging into the vast ocean is enough to terrify someone. But if you have made it your career to do so in an effort to save others, as U.S. Navy Ensign Raymond Long ’16 has, you’d forget what lurks below you, the waves crashing around you, and focus solely on the mission ahead. Long isn’t afraid of being out in the ocean. “I’ve always been around the water since I was young kid,” he explained.

“I scuba-dived and abalone-dived, fished, and I was on the swim team in high school.” His distinct familiarity with the ocean combined with a desire to dedicate his career to service is what catapulted him into the U.S. Navy and, ultimately, what motivated him to certify as a surface rescue swimmer.

After graduating from VMI and commissioning in the Navy, Long was assigned as a

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strike officer aboard a guided missile destroyer out of Rota, Spain. As a strike officer, Long’s responsibilities include leading a division of 14 sailors in the maintenance, operation of the vertical launching system and leading a team of fire controlmen in the proper employment of tomahawk land attack missiles. Through a friend who attended the U.S. Naval Academy, he quickly discovered that an opportunity existed to become a surface rescue swimmer as a secondary duty. It was a unique chance he couldn’t pass up. “I found out I was eligible to do the program, so I volunteered before I even got to my ship,” he exclaimed. For about a month before proceeding to his assignment, Long had a flexible schedule that allowed him to start preparing, and he took advantage of it by putting long hours in at the pool each day. “I was

pretty prepared going into it,” Long highlighted.

“The school itself is only a month long, as well.

It’s pretty long days – usually starting at 5:00 in the morning and ending at 5:00 in the evening.”

Besides the stamina needed to endure such extensive hours of training, the physical challenges certainly come into play, as well. The intention is to be trained well enough so that, if needed, you would be able to approach another person or multiple people in the water and successfully get them untangled from their flight gear and out of the ocean. That requires the strength to carry someone who is most likely injured, disoriented and in desperate need of help. But as Long also described, it also takes a sense of organization, as there’s a set system that needs to be followed.

“You have to follow certain procedures, because it’s all based around saving downed aviators

VMI Alumni Review

who have parachutes or some sort of harness attached to them. So, you have to know how to get them out of their gear,” Long explained.

For most, the physical standards would be the toughest part of making the cut. But Long insists his familiarity with the water alleviated that pressure for him. “It is challenging, but if you prepare well and are a comfortable swimmer, it is not the most challenging thing,” he divulged.

“I’d say the hardest part for most people is just getting used to following those procedures in the water when there are instructors splashing you and fog sirens are going off. ... They make it hectic, and there are people in parachutes in the water, people screaming and with legs injured; they simulate the scenario pretty well and make it realistic.”

Although every rescue swimmer trains for those life-or-death scenarios, thankfully, putting those learned skills into action is a very rare occurrence. Therefore, the everyday tasks of a rescue swimmer vary, and their responsibilities are vast. “There’s not too much of a typical day out here [on the ship], really,” Long stated. “A lot of it is just going to the pool and doing swim conditioning when we are in port. All rescue swimmers have to be first-responder medically qualified, so we practice tourniquets, and we do the same sort of training as combat casualty

care. We brush up on that every week and continue to practice scenarios.” A rescue swimmer is also expected to keep up with their necessary equipment so it is ready for use whenever the need might arise. “We can’t just jump in with our swimsuits,” he jested. “We have our knives and search lights, because man-overboards will probably happen at night. We also have our dry suits for cold water, because we deploy all over the world.”

Preparation is key, and Long is consistently readying himself for the possibility of a time in which his certification will be put to the test.

By working out and physically keeping up with his job’s demands, he feels he will be at his best in that moment. “I would never want to get in the water to save somebody and not be trained enough to do that and cost somebody their life.

Of course, you can pass the school and allow yourself to deteriorate and get worse, but I think most rescue swimmers will train four to five times a week just so they know that they can perform if they have to,” Long emphasized.

Being a surface rescue swimmer is a career that Long is passionate about, but it is a secondary duty. His current assignment is as a strike officer, and through his joint career through the Navy, he has taken part in some extremely significant events. “The last patrol I was on in April 2017,

I was the strike officer for the tomahawk shoot into Syria ... so that was probably the highlight of my career thus far. But as a rescue swimmer, I’ve been on about 20 small-boat operations, and I’ve also recovered ordnance dropped into the water from other ships. That is my highlight as a rescue swimmer, even though I don’t have any actual saves out there yet,” Long expressed.

Going forward as an officer, there will be a point at which the Navy will decide his career will need one definitive focus. “I really enjoy being a rescue swimmer, but it’s more of an enlisted member’s job, so once I hit about O-3, [the Navy] will start phasing me out. I will look to do something else, but I want to continue in a place or community that is going to challenge me the same way this has,” expressed Long.

He also emphasized that he was unaware as a cadet that the opportunity to start training to be a rescue swimmer was available at the Institute, and he stressed that any cadet curious should still go after the opportunity with vigor, as he has found tremendous value in what it has allowed him to accomplish. “VMI definitely prepared me well for the [surface rescue swimmer] school.

The biggest factor for completing that school is having the toughness to see it through and not quit, and I think any cadet would have the mental tenacity to see it through.”

Long conducting small boat operations in the rigid hulled inflatable boat, or RHIB.

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Richard Wise ’68 and Maurice Menefee ’58 visited with World War II veterans Willard Gilley and Dan Dorchak at Lexington Court Rehabilitation and Healthcare in Richmond, Virginia, Jan. 30, 2018. Gilley, who died Feb. 10, 2018, fought in Europe under Gen. George S. Patton ’907, while Dorchak flew with Capt. Claire Lee Chennault’s Flying Tigers in the Pacific theater. Wise and Menefee both served combat tours in Vietnam. Both men, along with Dorchak, are active members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart Chapter 1965 in Richmond, Virginia. All of the men received the Purple Heart medal for wounds received in combat.

On National Vietnam War Veterans Day March 29, 2018, Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 honored Vietnam veterans at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond, Virginia, by presenting each veteran in attendance with a special commemorative pin to honor them for their service to both the commonwealth and the nation. Billy Seargeant ’68 received a pin from Northam, who also declared March 29, 2018, “Welcome Home Vietnam Veterans Day” in the commonwealth. John “Clay” Mountcastle ’94, director of the Virginia War Memorial, was also present. Photos by Suzanne Feigley, Virginia War Memorial.

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 pinned Billy Seargeant ’68 to honor Seargeant for his military service during the Vietnam War.

John “Clay” Mountcastle ’94, director of the Virginia War Memorial, spoke with Northam and Seargeant.

Christopher A. “Chris” Parks ’84 serves as scoutmaster for Boy Scout Troop 119 in Charlottesville, Virginia. He has held this position since the troop was founded in 1999. Parks’ son, Tucker, earned the rank of eagle scout in October 2017 and serves as assistant scoutmaster for Troop 119.

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VMI Alumni Review

Above: U.S. Army Reserve Col. William B. “Bill” Dyer III ’84 was promoted to brigadier general Dec. 8, 2018. The promotion ceremony took place at the Spates Community Center in Fort Myer, Virginia.

Dyer’s wife, Jill, took part in the ceremony, as well as U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Charles Pede, judge advocate general of the Army.

Left: Several VMI alumni were able to attend Dyer’s promotion ceremony. Pictured were, from left, Rob Taylor ’88, U.S. Army Reserve Col. Andy Petretti ’84, Jim Hoy ’84, Barry Coceano ’84, Dyer, Tom Anthony ’84, Keith Mangum ’84, Bill Nixon ’88 and Steve Barsamian ’84.

U.S. Army Capt. Quentin M. Sweetser ’13 and 1st Lt. Tyler A. Owens ’14 met up in March 2018 while serving in Operation Inherent Resolve in the Middle East. Both are assigned to 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) in Fort Polk, Louisiana. Sweetser commands Company J, while Owens leads a platoon in Company C.

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Williamson ’60 Writes About VMI’s Legacy of Service

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor

Newly minted author J. Bolling Williamson ’60 has gathered a comprehensive look at VMI’s storied history, emphasizing the exemplary record of alumni service. “On the Field of Honor: The Military Heritage of Virginia Military Institute” also examines VMI’s early history and walks readers through the founders’ vision of a practical college whose graduates would be “capable and motivated to serve.”

For Williamson, the journey to publishing his first book began several years ago when he initiated a project to honor VMI’s numerous service cross (Navy Cross, Distinguished Service Cross and Air Force Cross) recipients. Those awards rank below only the Medal of Honor, yet the recipients were not commemorated as a group on post, and he wanted cadets to be aware of the heroes who had come before them. The fruits of Williamson’s diligent labors now reside on the walls of Kilbourne Hall, where cadets pass the exhibit on their way to ROTC classes.

Each service cross awardee is pictured, along with the citation.

Williamson’s realization that many of his fellow alumni were unacquainted with their heritage of military valor led him to seek a means of sharing VMI’s legacy with a wider audience. Using the VMI Archives and the VMI Museum, he began working on this book, and soon recognized the difficulty of narrowing his focus: VMI alumni had compiled an extensive record of service and achievement in addition to acts of valor.

Through the years-long process of writing and research, Williamson said Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System director, was instrumental with help and guidance in the realms of history, publishing and design.

During his research, Williamson substantiated what he already knew in his heart: the Institute had an amazingly rich military heritage, particularly considering the Institute’s relatively small size.

“It’s hard to talk about the accomplishments of our alumni without talking about the institution that produced them,” Williamson recalled. With that thought, Williamson had the first chapter in his book. The founders’ primary goal was reinvigorating the younger 8

Bolling Williamson ’60 with a copy of his book, “On the Field of Honor: The Military Heritage of Virginia Military Institute.”

VMI Alumni Review

generation with a sense of service, duty and patriotism, because they felt the spirit of service and patriotism that had carried the colonies through the revolution was “dying off,” Williamson said. They also wanted to make college education accessible to middle classes, and to give students a useful education.

“They wanted a school that was unique: One that would develop character along with intellect,” Williamson explained.

Lexington was also home to one of Virginia’s state arsenals, which proved instrumental in VMI’s beginnings. College education became available to the middle classes when VMI cadets were allowed to trade their service as state arsenal guards for tuition. The birth of a small military institute in drafty state arsenal buildings began something that endures today: cadets continue to be trained in discipline, duty and patriotism, while citizensoldier alumni provide exceptional service to their communities, states and countries.

“The extraordinary record of military service established by VMI alumni is exactly what the founders expected,” Williamson wrote.

Williamson relates the Institute’s early history, dedicating a chapter to the Battle of New Market, where the founders’ vision of instilling duty and commitment in their students was realized. The Corps of Cadets responded to the call to serve beyond all expectations.

Their performance and service at New Market has made them the stuff of legend; for those who survived, their service as citizen-soldiers continued well after the battle.

Williamson writes that VMI alumni have served in all military conflicts from the Civil War to the present conflicts in Afghanistan and the Middle East. He also noted alumni who have risen to high levels of responsibility and that VMI is the only college in the nation with graduates who have headed three of the four major military services. Many alumni attained the rank of four-star general in not only the U.S. military, but also in foreign militaries. Other accomplishments include several Chiefs of Engineers and an assistant Secretary of the Army.

Williamson outlines in detail the valor shown by VMI alumni in multiple conflicts, specifically Medal of Honor and service cross awardees. Seven alumni have been awarded the Medal of Honor, and VMI alumni have earned 86 service crosses. There are fewer than 86 awardees, Williamson points out,

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“On the Field of Honor: The Military Heritage of Virginia Military Institute” is available for purchase from the VMI Museum Store. because some alumni earned more than one service cross. One of those was Albert K. Earnest ’38, who earned three Navy Crosses. In World War II’s Pacific Theater, bomber pilot Earnest was sent, along with five other planes, from Midway Island to bomb an incoming Japanese fleet. The six bombers soon found themselves under intense fire from a superior force, but pressed on. Earnest’s crew – minus one – was killed during the action, and his plane was severely damaged; but he continued his mission and dropped his torpedo at close range, earning his first Navy Cross.

Without the use of instruments, which were damaged in the battle, he managed to limp his bullet-riddled plane 200 miles back to Midway Island, guided by smoke from the Japanese attack on the island. There, the ground crew waved him off several times because his landing gear was malfunctioning. Earnest, who knew his wounded radioman was unlikely to survive ditching the plane in the sea, landed the plane on one wheel. On the ground, he realized his plane was the sole aircraft to return.

His actions earned him a second Navy Cross in the space of hours. The third award came for service at Guadalcanal a few months later.

Williamson profiled several alumni whose service after the military was truly remarkable.

Among others, he highlights Verne E. Chaney ’45, M.D., who was decorated for bravery in the Korean War and then devoted his life to humanitarian medical service. He founded the Dr. Tom Dooley Foundation to improve health care in underdeveloped countries by providing medical equipment and supplies.

Williamson, who was inspired to attend VMI by his own family’s tradition, acknowledges the impact the Institute has had on his life, saying it changed and developed him. He continues to be inspired by VMI’s legacy of citizen-soldiers serving, and hopes his book will help VMI connect with diverse audiences in addition to cadets and alumni. Williamson, who said his “respect for [VMI] grew exponentially” while writing the book, doesn’t think VMI “is given the credit it deserves. I hope this will help tell the story outside the VMI family.” Aside from the general public, Williamson feels there are many corporations and foundations who “subscribe to the same values as [VMI] does,” and who could be encouraged to support VMI in the future.

Proceeds from book sales will benefit VMI. “On the Field of Honor: The Military Heritage of Virginia Military Institute” is available at the VMI Museum Store. For mail order, call the Museum Store at 540/464-7334.

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VMI Alumni Commission into Navy Civil Engineer Corps

U.S. Navy Ensign Christopher Davis ’16, Ensign Nathan Cole ’16, Rear Adm. John Adametz ’89, Ensign Edward Gloeggler ’14 and Ensign Tyson McClellan ’17 after the four ensigns graduated from Navy Civil Engineer Corps Officer School May 12, 2018, in Port Hueneme, California.

Retired U.S. Navy Rear Adm. and VMI engineering professor Wayne “Greg” Shear, U.S. Naval Academy ’79, attended the graduation of four VMI alumni from Navy Civil Engineer Corps Officer School May 12, 2018, in Port Hueneme, California, where U.S. Navy Ensigns Christopher Davis ’16, Nathan Cole ’16, Edward Gloeggler ’14 and Tyson McClellan ’17 became some of the newest additions to the Navy’s Civil Engineer Corps. After the graduation ceremony, Shear administered the oath to ensigns Cole and Davis, who were promoted to lieutenants junior grade.

The 15-week school is not a technical course but gives new CEC officers a contracting warrant plus a basic overview of functions they will perform and supervise for the Navy. Commissions into the Navy’s CEC are cousin to the more well-known commissioning route of ROTC. The CEC differs from ROTC programs, which take college graduates regardless of major and train the new officer in a specialty that may have little relation to the officer’s college degree. These fields are ultimately chosen by the respective military service. The Army, for example, could send a civil engineering major to be an infantry officer, the Navy might train a physics major as a submariner and the Air Force could choose to make a pilot out of an economics major.

Applicants for CEC, conversely, must have completed an engineering or an architectural degree, accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology or the National Architectural Accrediting Board, before the CEC grants a commission. Officers can arrive at a CEC commission through three routes: direct accession, collegiate bachelor’s program and collegiate master’s program.

Direct accession is for applicants who have already completed a degree. Some are already serving in the Navy, but can also apply from the civilian sector. The major requirement for application is completion of a bachelor’s or master’s degree accredited by ABET or NAAB. In both the collegiate programs, students commit to future Naval service while they are studying for either a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Essentially, they are placed on active duty but their duty is to

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finish their studies, Shear said. Placing students on active duty as officer candidates with an OCSN, or E-3, rank, allows students to collect a monthly paycheck in order to fund their studies. During the program, students must maintain a GPA of 2.7 on a 4.0 scale, no less than a C in any technical course and must pass a physical to enter the program and again before commissioning.

Entrance to the CEC is very competitive, and “VMI cadets do very well with it,” Shear noted. Shear, who retired from the Navy as Chief of Civil Engineers, has written numerous letters of recommendation for cadets and alumni to include in their application packets. Each applicant’s information is screened by a board of Navy officers, who select candidates for entrance into the program.

Approximately 15 VMI alumni have been commissioned, or are en route to a commission, as CEC officers since Shear came to VMI in 2011. Notable VMI graduates who serve in the Navy CEC include Rear Adm. John Adametz ’89, who was recently promoted to rear admiral lower half and is currently the commander of Navy Facilities Engineering and Expeditionary Warfare Center in Port Hueneme. Adametz commissioned as a surface warfare officer and transferred into the CEC after achieving his warfare qualification on board ship.

Once commissioned, CEC officers work within three main areas in the Navy: Construction battalions, known as Seabees; public works; and contracting. Seabees build ports, airfields, camps and anything else needed within a combat or combat support zone. Seabees constructed many of the camps and infrastructure to support U.S. troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, Shear noted. Public works include Naval base maintenance, from water lines to building infrastructure.

Navy CEC officers manage contracts for large building projects. If the VMI post were a Navy base, a Navy CEC officer would have managed the contract for the CPFT, Shear said.

For more information about commissioning in the Navy CEC, please visit https://www.navfac.navy.mil and click the jobs link.

VMI Alumni Review

In Memory: James J. Hentz

Hentz On Feb. 17, 2018, Col. James J. Hentz, head of VMI’s department of international studies and political science and a member of VMI’s faculty since 1997, died after suffering a stroke. He was 62.

A proud native son of Philadelphia, Hentz earned his bachelor’s degree from St. Joseph’s University. After graduation, he participated in the Marist Volunteer Teaching Program in American Samoa from 1979-81 and later taught secondary school at St. Charles Lwanga Seminary in Zambia from 1987-89.

In between those teaching stints, he earned a master’s degree from Georgetown University and worked as a legislative assistant for U.S. Rep. Thomas Luken (D-Ohio). After his return from Zambia, he earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in international studies from the University of Pennsylvania. From 1993-94, he was a visiting scholar at the Rand Afrikanner University in Johannesburg, South Africa, a position that provided him a front-row seat to that country’s transition from apartheid.

An internationally renowned scholar on security in sub-Saharan Africa, Hentz regularly traveled to Africa where he lectured on security issues, including a 2017 presentation to senior officers in the Nigerian Army. He also consulted with the U.S. military and lectured

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for the Naval Postgraduate School on issues related to international security, especially in Africa. Besides founding the journal African Security, he published widely on the topic of African security, authoring numerous articles and books, including “South Africa and the Logic of Regional Cooperation,” (2005) “Routledge Handbook of Africa Security” (2013) and, with Hussein Solomon, “Understanding Boko Haram: Terrorism and Insurgency in Africa” (2017). At the time of his death, he was revising the manuscript “The Nature of War in Africa” for publication. He also was a coeditor of “New and Critical Regionalism and Security” (2003) and editor of “Obligation of Empire: U.S. Grand Strategy in the New Century” (2004).

Hentz was a Fulbright Scholar at the Miklós Zrínyi National Defense University in Budapest, Hungary, in 2003. He served as a visiting fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution and at Cambridge University’s Wolfson College in 2008 and 2009, respectively. He also received the Virginia Social Science Association’s Scholar Award for Scholarship in international studies and political science in 2014.

Hentz’s time at VMI began in 1997 when, after teaching at Dartmouth University, he joined the staff of the nascent department of international studies and political science, led

by Col. Patrick Mayerchak. His abilities as a teacher, mentor and scholar and his devotion to cadets – all of which were immediately evident – helped spur the development of the still-young department and turn it into one of the most popular among cadets. Hentz’s efforts led to recognition of the international studies and political science department on and off post for its excellence, and for playing a major role in the academic renewal of the Institute.

In 2006, he became the head of the department. In his remarks at Hentz’s memorial service in Jackson Memorial Hall Feb. 23, Brig. Gen. Jeffrey G. Smith Jr. ’79, deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty, described the position of department head as “the most demanding job at VMI,” and said Hentz “did it as well as anyone in memory.” He stressed Hentz’s relationship

with his faculty. “Jim was a strategic leader.

He hired and developed faculty for the long view. First, he built a team meant to represent the diversity of human opinion, a group of ‘alphas’ who argued their personal views (in classrooms, in research and in conference) via academic frameworks through which constructive dialogue could proceed. Second, he yoked those diverse professors and their divergent views to VMI’s unique educational military framework.”

Hentz was also known among faculty and cadets for his willingness to put in long hours at work. Rare, indeed, was the day when he was not in the office by 7 a.m.

He was thoroughly devoted to the professional sports teams associated with his hometown of Philadelphia. He also was renowned for a wry sense of humor – often manifested in sayings know among the department as “Hentzisms” – and a direct manner that stemmed from what Lt. Col. Dennis Foster, current head of the department, described as his “commitment to the truth ... especially in the face of injustice. The best thing – indeed, the only thing – that one can do is to be on the side of right, even if wrong seems like it has the upper hand.”

Among the many honors he received while a professor at the Institute were the VMI Distinguished Teaching Award in 2004, the Matthew Fontaine Maury Research Award in 2006 and the Virginia Outstanding Faculty Award in 2007. In 2010, he received the Adams-Collins Faculty Research Award presented by VMI’s John A. Adams Center for Military History and Strategic Analysis.

Smith said Hentz’s dedication to realizing his vision of the international studies department’s mission and his dedication to its faculty was such that “the Institute is now considered by many professional observers to be one of this nation’s pre-eminent destinations for the study and teaching of the applied political sciences.”

Hentz is survived by his wife of 23 years, Michele; daughters, Julia and Katherine; mother, Dolores Hentz Smith; two sisters and three brothers. His father, James A. Hentz, and his step-father, William D. Smith, predeceased him.

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Features Bowman ’73 Doctors from the Heart

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor

Every day when he arrives to work, Mac Bowman ’73, M.D., is “excited by the possibilities.”

His enthusiasm for his life’s calling is just as strong now as it was when he began practicing medicine. Bowman considers himself rich – not in economic terms, but in the intangible gifts he has been given. His “greatest blessing is to share with others through service,” he said. Bowman has given back to VMI as a regular donor, and by serving on both the Board of Visitors, from 19962000 and the Keydet Club’s Board of Governors from 1992-95. Bowman said he made some of “the best friends” of his life at the Institute and received tremendous support from older alumni who had graduated during the 1930s and 1940s.

These men impressed Bowman with their dedication to VMI and gave him “an appreciation of what a great school it is.”

Augusta, Georgia – where Bowman has been practicing since 1986 – has benefited immeasurably from his service mindset. He subscribes to the old adage, “An ounce of prevention is

said James Davis, president and chief executive officer of University Hospital. HASP offers comprehensive prevention services, including coronary artery imaging, genetic testing and advanced cholesterol testing. The vascular imaging services offered at HASP have an accreditation held by fewer than 2 percent of U.S. vascular laboratories. The center can test people whose family members have been diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases or who already have known risk factors, like high blood pressure or diabetes. Augmenting HASP, Bowman began a community outreach with a mobile screening unit called the “Heart Cart.”

“One of the things Doctor Bowman is expert at is seeing a need, and meeting a need,” said Laurie Ott, president of the University Health Care Foundation. “He’s very passionate about making sure we can get out into the community and screen those folks who otherwise wouldn’t make the time to see us, or for whatever reason can’t come to us.”

“What he has shown me and this whole medical staff is that greatness is not about being a doctor or who you are or what kind of car you drive,” Randy Cooper, M.D., University Hospital’s chief of surgery said. “It’s about serving people.”

Bowman was named a Hospital Hero by the Georgia Hospital Association in 2016. The awards are presented annually to people who have “tirelessly given of their time, talent and expertise to improve their organizations and the world around them,” according to the GHA website.

Bowman maintains a busy schedule, seeing patients daily at University Hospital and selflessly spending many evenings and weekends educating people about cardiac disease, prevention and treatment. Balancing a jam-packed life is something Bowman, who came to VMI on a football scholarship, has been doing since his cadet days. VMI taught him to prioritize by balancing a “tremendously hectic” schedule – the

“I know every day I set foot in this hospital, I’ll have a chance to make a difference in somebody’s life.” worth a pound of cure,” and began working to implement a program to reduce the risks of strokes and heart attacks. He focused on educating people with the objective of stopping cardiac events before they became extreme.

Even though modern technology allows many cardiac patients to “regain normalcy” by using rehabilitation programs, avoiding cardiac events in the first place is better for everyone, Bowman said. Prevention is less expensive for insurance and health care providers. Potential patients can avoid the partial or total disruption of their daily lives – the results of strokes and heart attacks – by learning to change simple things like diet and exercise. Bowman pressed on toward his target of prevention, and eventually an entire department was added to University Hospital: The Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Center.

“It was his idea, his drive to try to prevent strokes and heart attacks that started [HASP],”

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The Heart Cart began by providing free screening and education to first responders.

Next, Bowman’s team began working with area schools to provide free heart screenings to local student athletes. The Heart Cart team diagnosed multiple issues after screening the student athletes, including severe diabetes, heart problems, high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol levels. HASP and the Heart Cart touch more than 8,000 lives annually in Augusta’s three-county region.

One family even credits Bowman with saving their daughter’s life through a diagnosis made during a Heart Cart screening, Ott said.

The sophisticated services advocated for and provided by Bowman and the HASP staff are cutting edge, but the way the services are provided show Bowman’s character. He is widely known as a humble, caring man, who gives the same careful attention to everyone, regardless of economic or social status.

combination of VMI’s military requirements, football practice and academic studies – and to “do it every day.”

Bowman took his Institute-taught organizational skills plus his considerable academic prowess to the Medical College of Georgia. At the time, MCG, like VMI, had only been admitting African-American students for a few years.

“It was socially traumatic,” Bowman recalled.

Although there were not protests, he did not have the same level of support offered to other students in an incredibly challenging academic environment. Despite the challenges facing him at MCG, Bowman refused to allow his context to define his outlook. Instead, he said, “You face challenges [and] you adapt. You don’t whine; you just do what you need to do.”

Throughout his life, Bowman’s mother taught him to always look for a positive alternative. Divine intervention, shaped by “culture and social norms of the time” molded his path to becoming

VMI Alumni Review

Bowman in University Hospital’s cath lab, where patients with cardiac issues undergo diagnostic procedures. Bowman, a cardiologist, is a longtime advocate for preventative cardiac education and care.

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Bowman says the mindsets of athletes and physicians are similar. Both are striving to reach a particular goal and require constant, consistent evaluation to continue improving performance.

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a physician, Bowman said. He’s been practicing medicine for more than four decades, but was not born in a hospital. A midwife attended Bowman’s birth in a relative’s house, located on the land of a former plantation.

“I did not see a doctor until I was 7 years old,” Bowman said. One day in second grade, Bowman wanted to play horseshoes with older children. As is the way with children, the older ones refused to let the younger Bowman into their game. Bowman, whose young heart was full of mischief, ran back and forth through the game as horseshoes were thrown.

“A horseshoe hit me right under the eye,” Bowman recalled. “I saw blood all over everywhere.”

The school called Bowman’s mother. Due to segregation, Bowman could not attend school in his hometown nor could he be seen by a doctor nearby. Waiting for his mother to retrieve him from school, plus travel time to a doctor’s office added to the young Bowman’s anxiety. At the doctor’s office, his nervousness mounted as he and his mother used the separate entrance dictated for them. His encounter with the doctor would not only ease his nerves, but set his life on a trajectory he is still following. The doctor “made me feel very comfortable, very unafraid.

[He] was very kind,” Bowman recalled. “I told my mom that day ... ‘that’s what I want to be when I grow up. I want to do what he does.’”

His mother did not point out the obvious strikes against Bowman: His economic status and ethnicity combined with the culture of 1950s southern Georgia.

“She said, very spontaneously, ‘If that’s what you want to do, that’s what you can do,’” Bowman remembered. “‘If that’s what God’s put in you, [it] can’t be denied. You work hard, do what you’re supposed to do ... God does the rest.’”

From that point on “it was galvanized in my mind,” Bowman said. In every school assignment, he wrote about becoming a doctor. His focus on his future profession wavered only once, during his junior year at VMI. Following his success on the college gridiron, NFL scouts began courting Bowman with serious offers.

He called his mother and was floored when, after informing her that he would be delaying medical school in favor of playing with the Green Bay Packers, she admonished him. “‘You’re going to do what?’” he remembers her scolding him. “‘Why would you put off something you wanted to do all your life, to do something where you could get hurt and it’s all over in a minute?’”

Bowman ignored his mother’s caution, figuring she would come around when she saw him playing in the NFL, but “God had

A football scholarship brought Bowman to VMI, where he led the Keydets in rushing in the 1970, 1971 and 1972 seasons. He was recruited by several NFL teams, but ultimately continued with his childhood goal of pursuing medicine. Photos courtesy University Health Care System. another plan,” he related. He was playing in an important scrimmage, with scouts milling around. The coaches called his favorite play, and thoughts of showcasing his talents for the scouts filled Bowman’s mind. “The next thing I know, I’m writhing in pain on the ground. When I looked at the films, nobody had touched me at all; I’d stepped in a little gopher hole.”

After his injury the scouts vanished, but Bowman took time to reflect and “recommitted” to his goal of becoming a physician, even turning down further offers to play football after VMI. Bowman felt it was God’s way of telling him that the world had a plenty of good running backs, but – for him – there was a different purpose.

After graduating from VMI with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, Bowman attended MCG on an Army scholarship. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from MCG, followed by nine years serving as an Army physician. In 1986, Bowman settled his young family in Augusta and soon began to work at University Hospital.

He remains committed and enthusiastic about his life’s calling – treating, helping and educating people. From medical to emotional support “God always gives me something to take into a patient’s room ... I know every day I set foot in this hospital, I’ll have a chance to make a difference in somebody’s life,” he said.

VMI Alumni Review

Rankin ’68 Helps Wounded Warriors, Families

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor

W

hen retired U.S. Army Col. Dick Rankin ’68 decides to do something, there’s no holding back: He puts his entire heart into the effort.

Three years ago, Hawaii-based Rankin began focusing his energy on helping wounded veterans through building community and relationships.

To truly support his local wounded warrior population, Rankin realized it was essential to include not just the veterans, but the veterans’ families, in his efforts.

“We really needed to do something for these families,” Rankin said, recalling the organization’s beginnings. “I knew I could raise money, and I wanted to focus attention on the families of wounded warriors.”

In a brainstorming session with Don Inouye, who later became the organization’s vice president, the two friends came up with the perfect name for their new organization: Wounded Warrior Ohana.

“In Hawaiian, ‘ohana’ means family, and it is descriptive of what we do,” Rankin said. “We try to provide family-enriching experiences for the wounded warriors.”

Rankin began reaching out to veterans by connecting with local military bases, where WWO found wounded warriors who were still on active duty. Next, Rankin contacted the Veterans Affairs to connect with veterans who had been discharged. Exiting the military can

leave veterans and their families feeling alienated or overwhelmed, and WWO provides valuable support, Rankin noted.

Rankin has also been able to reach some of his peers, fellow Vietnam-era veterans, who don’t always have family nearby. Connections made through WWO become a family support system.

Older veterans need to get out and socialize as much as younger ones, Rankin observed. “The older veterans get a lot out of our events. Initially, they don’t talk very much, but they are able to mix with younger veterans, and by the end of the day, they’ll be exchanging stories.”

The 100 percent volunteer-run WWO hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year,

Dick Rankin ’68 on post for his 50th Reunion in April 2018. Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

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including beach picnics, athletic games, whalewatching cruises, luaus, magic shows and water parks. A common theme throughout every event is a meal. Rankin purposefully includes a meal in each event to give the veterans and families time to relax, talk to each other and hopefully make new connections.

“It’s my hope that while they’re sitting around having lunch, they’re interacting,” Rankin said about encouraging warriors and families to socialize. “That part is really good for [wounded warriors]. We include a meal with every event we do so we have that kind of time. We’ll sit down and have lunch and talk. That’s how we try to get after the socialization piece.”

WWO diverges from many veterans organizations, which have focused solely on combatwounded, post-9/11 veterans. Conversely, WWO opens its arms to all wounded warriors from any era – regardless of how the wounds were received – and their families.

“We take care of sick, injured – if they’re a part of the military and something has hit them in a bad way, we don’t care what era [they’re] from,” Rankin declared.

In the three years since WWO began, it has grown from a fledgling organization on a shoestring budget to serving upward of 1,000 area wounded warriors. Rankin “never dreamed” that WWO, which started with just his family and a few friends, would be helping so many people.

He has the steady support of talented volunteers.

Professional services, including legal, public relations, chaplain, accounting and fundraising, are all provided pro-bono.

“There are many more people who need help than you would think,” he said. “I used to worry when I held an event whether I’d be able to cover it with the money I had.”

In WWO’s early months, Rankin was only able offer a few tickets for his events. As word spread about what WWO was doing, Rankin gathered backing in in many areas. These days, when WWO hosts an event, Rankin can issue an open invitation. “I had to put a cap [on the invitations] the first couple of years,” Rankin said. “Now, I simply say, ‘If you want to come, come!’”

WWO partners with several area organizations, including AccesSurf, a nonprofit innovator in enabling people with disabilities to participate in adaptive water sports; Koa Beach Service, which provides water equipment and adaptive floating and sand wheelchairs; and Waikiki Beach Services, which provides everything from umbrellas to beach wheelchairs. The organization has also garnered sponsor support from nationally-known names, like Hilton and the Kiewit Corporation.

WWO receives assistance from area attractions in the form of free or discounted goods, tickets and services, allowing wounded warriors and their families access to events otherwise financially difficult or even impossible to experience.

None of this may have happened if it weren’t for two things: Football and VMI. A football scholarship led Rankin to VMI, VMI led Rankin to the Army, and the Army led Rankin to both Hawaii and teaching.

“I may not have gone any place if it weren’t for football,” Rankin recalled. “I just loved football.

That’s how I felt back in those days.” Rankin’s

Wounded warriors paddle kayaks during Wounded Warrior Ohana’s Day at the Beach Feb. 15, 2017. Wounded warriors and their families were able enjoy many water recreation opportunities and spend time with each other while eating lunch on the beach.

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Rankin shakes hands with wounded warrior and former Navy Petty Officer 1st Class Jason Elkins, who was medically discharged from the Navy in 2016. Elkins sustained a non-combat related spinal injury that left him paralyzed while swimming with his wife and children in 2015. father had died, and his opportunities were limited. So, when VMI offered Rankin a “full-on” football scholarship, his mother advised him to take it.

The young Rankin arrived at VMI full of mischief but soon learned a different approach to life. He says that VMI changed him and taught him a better way to do things. He learned to “get it done, and do it right,” he remembered.

“Everyone has to be a member of a team, and you have to cooperate. That’s how you get things done properly. I took that into the Army and became very successful. I owe that all to VMI. I love VMI for what it did for me.”

After graduation, Rankin spent more than two decades in the Army, including a combat tour in Vietnam, postings in Hawaii and a stint teaching at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point. When preparing for military retirement, he recalled how much he loved teaching at West Point, and turned down the banks and businesses courting him in favor of teaching high school economics at Honolulu’s ‘Iolani School.

During his 20-year teaching career, Rankin won awards as a teacher and coached an economics team to state and national championships multiple times. Before his second retirement in 2014, he organized a student wounded warrior chapter – called Raiders for Wounded Warriors – at ‘Iolani School. The Raider chapter actively continues to support WWO. To learn more about WWO, visit their website at www.wwohana.org, or contact Rankin at dickrankin@wwo.org.

VMI Alumni Review

Kosecki ’09: Serving Others – Fighting Cancer

by Elaine Wood, Contributing Writer

Kosecki ’09 Growing up with both parents in the science field, Chelsea Kosecki ’09 always had a unique interest in medicine, but she had no idea where that curiosity would take her. “I chose to major in chemistry at VMI mostly because I adored the professors, and my dyke was a chemistry major.

My twin brother [Derek Kosecki ’09] also chose chemistry [at VMI], so it felt like home,” she explained. That comfort in the field eventually led Kosecki to a career as a lead scientist in the development of multiple cancer-curing drugs, most of which have been instrumental in treating cancer and have seen revolutionary results.

Her most recent work focused on KISQALI, a drug intended to treat women diagnosed with breast cancer, which entered into in its premiere investigational stage in 2013. Now, the drug is available by prescription in countries all over the world, and its impact on its patients is extraordinary.

A significant victory of Kosecki’s research is that KISQALI has earned breakthrough therapy designation by the Food and Drug Administration. As Kosecki explained, the goal behind earning that status is that “it is intended to expedite the development and review of potential new medicines that treat serious or

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life-threatening conditions if the therapy has demonstrated substantial improvement over an available therapy on at least one clinically significant endpoint.” She also pointed out that a breakthrough therapy designation encompasses Fast Track program features and more intensive FDA guidance on an effective program for drug development. Currently, the drug is able to treat postmenopausal women that have HR+/HER2- locally advanced or metastatic breast cancer, but because of Kosecki’s diligence, it is in the process of being approved for treatment for premenopausal breast cancer.

Kosecki explained the science behind KISQALI further, noting that the drug is “a selective cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor – a class of drugs that help slow the progression of cancer by inhibiting two proteins called cyclin-dependent kinase 4 and 6. These proteins, when over-activated, can enable cancer cells to grow and divide too quickly. Targeting CDK4/6 with enhanced precision may play a role in ensuring that cancer cells do not continue to replicate uncontrollably.”

After finding herself submerged in working with KISQALI, Kosecki dedicated her research to treating breast cancer in the premenopausal stage. This cancer behaves differently in its development and progression than it does in someone who has breast cancer after menopause. “Hormones play a large part in cancer, and they can make it more aggressive or difficult or different to treat compared to breast cancer in postmenopausal women,” she explained. “Society treats breast cancer the same for premenopausal and postmenopausal women. My recent study showed that, indeed, there is a need to treat these women differently.” Her concentration was innovative and was presented to the public for the first time at the San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium in December 2017. The response to Kosecki’s research led to it being submitted for approval around the world.

Combining her personal goal to serve others with her drive to succeed, Kosecki has seen substantial advancement in her career. In April 2018, she was promoted from expert clinical scientist to director in clinical research. Her motivation for working so hard in the lab is simple – the more dedicated her efforts, the

greater potential she has to save lives. But she doesn’t shy away from admitting just how demanding and consuming the research can be.

“I can’t tell you how much time and energy and money it takes to bring a product to market,” she said. “There are hundreds of people and doctors around the world who work on this one product.

I touched almost every study for KISQALI in the last five years, and there is still so much left to be done ... the clock never stops.”

The great passion Kosecki demonstrates through her research stems from seeing just how transformative her work on a drug can be.

“I review CT scans and MRIs of patients for hours each day. I see their cells in a microscope, and then in a couple of weeks or months, when I get to review their scans after taking my drug and see that their tumor has shrunk, or they no longer need to be on chemo – that is the most rewarding part of my job. The fact that I had a hand in extending their life so they could see their grandchildren or have a baby gives me so much joy,” Kosecki expressed.

KISQALI is not only ceasing rapid progression of the disease, it also greatly enhances the quality of life of patients being treated for breast cancer. Another instance that Kosecki recalled was when a patient asked if she could travel to another country to visit a family member. That filled Kosecki with absolute joy and solidified her research’s purpose even further. “Asking me that [question] meant [my patient] was well enough to travel and enjoy life, and that means so much more to me than anything.”

Although it is clear that Kosecki is the perfect mix of what is needed for a successful researcher – determined, caring and motivated – she insists that another factor that helps her in her career is a mentality solidified during her time at the Institute.

“Quality is something that VMI taught me,” she stated. “I always tell myself ignorance is not an option at work. Quality is something that cannot be forgotten while developing new drugs. There are times when it would be easier to document an error in research and let it be, but for me, I feel guilty doing that. I want to find out the root cause and fix it. I want to make sure it doesn’t happen again. I want to better the research for the next person, because that might mean it helps more people in the long run.”

(Editor’s Note: Photo by Marie Papp Photography, Inc.)

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Kroner ’17 Serves Refugee Populations in Ohio

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor

Rachel Kroner ’17 (front row, third from right) spent the past year volunteering with the Capuchin Franciscan Volunteer Corps helping refugees navigate the U.S. health system in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cap Corps also had volunteers in Washington, D.C., and, along with Catholic Charities, aids U.N.-designated refugees in acclimating to life in the U.S. Photos courtesy Capuchin Franciscan Volunteer Corps.

While the year following college graduation finds most young people fervently working on themselves – furthering careers and building resumes – Rachel Kroner ’17 followed a different path. She’s living on a $100-a-month stipend and spends her days teaching refugees how to access health care in Cleveland, Ohio.

Initially, Kroner, a distinguished graduate of VMI who earned a Bachelor of Science degree in psychology, planned to attend graduate school for clinical psychology. She was in the middle of a research project during her senior year at VMI when she realized she wanted to do something unusual.

“Suddenly, it dawned on me that I didn’t want to go straight to grad school; I really wanted to do a year of service to work with people, especially people who are unfortunate, who experience suffering,” she recalled.

Unusual is a good description of Kroner, said Lt. Col. Glenn Sullivan, Ph.D., associate professor in VMI’s psychology department, and a licensed clinical psychologist himself, who worked closely with Kroner on several research projects.

Kroner was “unique,” he said, in her concern for others. “A person’s research interests reflect who

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they are, and the fact that Rachel was interested in empathy was not an accident.”

After exploring her options, Kroner found the Capuchin Franciscan Volunteer Corps, or Cap Corps, a volunteer organization led by an order of Catholic friars. Kroner, who is Catholic, says her personal spirituality played a part in choosing to apply for the Cap Corps. Her time at VMI also led her to seek a challenging service opportunity. “[VMI] is a hard experience. It’s not average.

It was the four hardest years of my entire life,” Kroner recalled. “I knew how fruitful VMI was to my life and my character. I knew if I chose a service that was ... demanding and totally out of my comfort zone, [it] would be just as fruitful.”

Through the Cap Corps, Kroner was assigned to work in the Migration and Refugee Services department of Catholic Charities in Cleveland, Ohio, where she is a health care navigator working with a local refugee population. Refugees, different from immigrants, have fled from their home countries due to “a well-founded fear of persecution based on religion, race, nationality, political opinion or membership in a particular social group,” according to the U.S. Department of State website, and their status

as refugee is officially determined through the United Nations, a U.S. embassy or specially trained nongovernmental organizations, who work to resettle the refugee in another country.

“There’s a mentality that [refugees] come to America and feed off the system. It’s just not true,” Kroner observed. “They’d rather be in their home countries, but they can’t because they’re escaping persecution.”

Kroner’s role is to help refugees learn to use the health care system in their new home. She assists in scheduling doctor’s appointments and often takes refugees on their first visits to the doctor. From the ground up, Kroner supports the refugees in learning how health care in the U.S. works.

“Some people have never even experienced what it is like to go to the doctor,” Kroner related. “Health care in other areas does not work like the health care system in [the U.S.]. Some people have never brushed their teeth before. To teach them all these things, to make health care a priority, that’s what I’m there for.”

If there is no caregiver for children, Kroner will bring the whole family to appointments.

She spends much of her 40-hour workweek

VMI Alumni Review

transporting patients from their home to appointments. The difference in time perception between the U.S. and other cultures – where schedules are based around entire days, or even seasons, not hours and minutes – is something Kroner has learned to plan around. “[Time in the U.S.] is much different from the refugees’ time. Other cultures’ [time] doesn’t work like ours,” Kroner related. “At VMI, I learned very much to go by a schedule. Here, I’m learning to be much more flexible.”

Often, Kroner arrives an hour early to a refugee’s house in order to get the person to the appointment on time. Sometimes, this is her first meeting with the person. When she’s not shuttling between Cleveland doctors’ offices and refugees’ homes, Kroner grabs a few minutes in her office to schedule appointments before heading out to pharmacies to pick up and deliver prescriptions. Catholic Charities’ goal is for refugees to become self-sufficient within about one year of arrival to the U.S. To facilitate this goal, Kroner teaches her clients how to get to appointments on their own, via bus or by scheduling a taxi, and how to use a pharmacy.

Most of the refugees Kroner works with do not initially speak English. While younger people are usually quick to pick up the new language, older adults have a much more difficult time learning English, Kroner said. The lack of a common language combined with stark cultural differences has the potential to be frustrating, but Kroner thinks of compassion. If circumstances were reversed, she hopes strangers would treat her own parents compassionately and applies the golden rule to the refugee population she serves. She’s also learned that communication transcends language.

“I definitely learned that, as much as there’s a

language barrier, when you see a mom crying about her child, you don’t have to say anything,” she related. “Our own humanity – we understand these things without language. We understand when someone’s sad or anxious or upset. Things like a smile or holding a hand, these speak tremendous volumes outside of language.”

Part of the Cap Corps philosophy is to bring their volunteers closer to the populations they serve. To do this, volunteers live together in a community, rather than in a solo apartment or home. Mirroring the friars who lead the Cap Corps, the volunteers work together to take care of their assigned houses, any associated chores, and then eat and pray together each evening. Beyond room and board, the volunteers receive a small stipend monthly. Kroner’s stipend is $100.

“You don’t ... take a vow of poverty, but you make a commitment of poverty,” Kroner noted.

“So, you spend that year making $100 a month, and you have to live within those means of $100 a month. We are supposed to be living in poverty, just like the people we serve. So being actually able to live the way they live has been a tremendous, eye-opening experience.”

Growing up in a middle-class family, Kroner had never personally experienced poverty.

People – including refugees – don’t choose where they’re born or the circumstances they are born into, she noted, thinking of children she has met over the past year who were born in refugee camps.

Kroner’s experience serving refugees has been enlightening. Before Cap Corps, she had never before been in a place where many different languages were flying around the room, and English was the distinct minority. Relating a story about a refugee family where the father had been a doctor in his home country but is now thankful to have a job laying tile, she says she has realized the temporary nature of “privilege and fortune” and that what material things and status you have one day, may be gone the next.

“There’s a dire need for us to know how other

Kroner ’17 people live,” Kroner said. “It would make us ... a lot more helpful, a lot more understanding.”

Her work with refugees has strengthened her desire to pursue advanced studies in psychology, possibly to work with refugees or other cultures.

Although mental health issues carry a stigma in the U.S., the degree of shame associated with these issues is vastly different in other countries, Kroner has learned. Many of the refugees she assists come from cultures where people “don’t even want to acknowledge” the possibility of mental health problems.

In August 2018, Kroner finishes her year commitment as a Cap Corps volunteer, and will marry Andrew Vaccaro ’18. Vaccaro, one of the U.S. Army’s newest second lieutenants, will soon report to training at Fort Benning, Georgia.

While there, Kroner hopes to find an opportunity to work with underserved populations.

“They found out I was getting married, so they decided to teach me how to carry a baby on my back for future reference! In many, if not all, parts of Africa the women carry the children on their back like this. This allows them to work, cook and walk long miles. The Congolese women are very close to their children, and I am almost always brought to tears by their relationship with their babies. It is truly beautiful.”

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50th Anniversary of Racial Integration at VMI

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor contributions from Bolling Williamson ’60 and Gene Williams ’74

Foster ’72

Gore ’72

Randolph ’72

In late-1960s Virginia, a newspaper headline caught a young man’s attention. The headline announced VMI had accepted its first black applicant. Harry Gore Jr. ’72 – who was the subject of the headline – remembered thinking, “I was just accepted by VMI. I’m black. That’s me.” It was spring 1968, and Gore was preparing to graduate from an integrated high school in Hampton, Virginia. Although the Civil Rights Act had passed in 1964, the young Gore did not dwell on his pioneering role in breaking VMI’s color barrier. He was one of five African-Americans who would become brother rats of the Class of 1972 in fall 1968. The others were Larry Foster, Adam Randolph, Richard Valentine and Philip Wilkerson.

Beginning in the mid-1950s, a handful of black students were admitted to doctoral and graduate programs at the University of Virginia, and then the College of William & Mary on the grounds that such courses of study were not available at historically black colleges and universities, including then-Virginia State College in Petersburg. Leaning on the separate but equal ruling, a few African-Americans applied successfully to undergraduate professional programs like engineering because there was no counterpart at the HBCUs. Gore met VMI’s rigorous academic standards and was quickly followed by Foster, Randolph, Valentine and Wilkerson. The reasons they came to the imposing tan barracks topping one of Lexington’s green hills mirrored those of generations before them: VMI was a small school that offered a practical, economical education in a military environment. Gore had wanted to be an Air Force pilot since childhood.

Valentine was looking for a technical education in the engineering field. Wilkerson came from a military family and was also looking for a military career.

Gore recalled several other factors that helped swing his decision.

Col. Arthur Lipscomb ’934, the director of admissions, pointed out that he wouldn’t have to spend money to maintain a wardrobe since everyone wore the same uniform, nor would he incur the expenses for maintaining a car, since they weren’t allowed. Finally, he could focus on his academics without being distracted by girls.

“When you did go out on dates, the girls came there to pick you up!

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Valentine ’72

Wilkerson ’72

I was sold; VMI was the school for me,” Gore recalled.

Applicants in following years perceived other benefits. Marvin Watts ’74 realized he needed a structured environment, because “I preferred to march to my own beat,” he said. He was drawn to a high school teacher, whom he sensed had experienced some of the same authority issues while growing up. Watts respected the focus and values he saw in his teacher, and when he learned that he was a VMI alumnus, he believed the school could help shape him without changing who he was.

Mac Bowman ’73, M.D., was the first African-American to graduate from his high school in Georgia and was also the first black player on his high school football team, which he led to two state championships. College interest in Bowman was minimal. One of his high school football coaches put him in touch with VMI, and Bowman was struck by the fact that the football players had real academic majors, including pre-med and engineering. He chose VMI because he believed he could not only contribute athletically, but pursue his goal of becoming a physician.

The minutes from a VMI Board of Visitors meeting reported that Maj. Gen. George R.E. Shell ’931, then-superintendent, announced five black applicants had been accepted for the 1968-69 academic year but did not report any further discussion. The announcement was made in a volatile national climate: Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Sen. Robert F. Kennedy had been assassinated, and anti-Vietnam protests were at a fever pitch. Racial tensions were high, and the social fabric which held the country together was being stretched to the breaking point.

Shell realized that he needed the full support of the Corps to successfully make this transition. He viewed racial integration as an order that would be carried out, and he took the bold step of putting the responsibility of preparing the returning upper classes to accept those men in the hands of the cadets themselves. He made it crystal clear that the class officers would be accountable: “I hold you and your classes entirely responsible. And if you bring disgrace to VMI because of racial prejudices, you all are going to pay the price,” Shell told the cadets.

Frank B. Easterly ’69, who served as class president for most of the 1968-69 academic year, willingly took on this responsibility. “We

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formed a group called the Contact Committee,” he remembered. The group included cadet leadership from multiple aspects of post life, including the Bomb, the Honor Court, the Executive Committee and the General Committee. Easterly laid the groundwork with a series of meetings with members of his class and with other leaders in the Corps to emphasize that there would be no discrimination. The black cadets were to receive no unusual attention in the Rat Line – either on the tough or lenient side.

Easterly said two main factors led to the uneventful integration of VMI. The first was the Tet Offensive, which began in January 1968 and went on through September. Most cadets would be commissioned after graduation and go on to military service, with a high likelihood of tours in Vietnam. The seriousness of their futures was the preoccupying concern at the forefront of everyone’s mind, Easterly said. The second factor was the VMI system, which takes cadets from all walks of life, subjects them to the Rat Line and sees them emerge as a single unit: A new class.

“We didn’t see it as any particular big deal to prepare the school for this because we knew the Rat Line in and of itself was going to integrate the different backgrounds and cultures of the kids that came to VMI and turn them into a class. We had the benefit of a class system and a Rat Line,” Easterly said. “The school itself and the system of the Rat Line is an integrating model ... because it takes people and turns them [toward] sort of a common interest. The common interest is the brotherhood, the brother rat system. So the system worked, because they came out as brother rats. I doubt they thought of themselves as black or white brother rats, they were just brother rats. They had all suffered together and gone through the system together. [They] came out the other end of it successfully, and that’s generally what happens.”

This was an emotional issue dividing the nation and some pundits were certain there would be abuses, but aside from the occasional racial slur, the Corps was largely accepting. Many cadets had attended integrated high schools, so having African-Americans in the Corps wasn’t a big deal.

Because there were only five men involved, there was some anxiety over whether they would be overwhelmed by stepping into what had been a totally white society and living on such close terms with the other cadets in integrated rooms. The administration was determined that they would be VMI cadets in every sense of the word, and Lipscomb explained their approach in this manner: “The admittance of blacks was simply a matter of social acceptance. So far as their physical presence was concerned, they were just like whites. Everything was the same for them as for whites. So what is your complaint other than that they look different?”

Gore acknowledged some concern about how he would be received – both by the upperclassmen and by members of his own class. “My concern about the upper classes was dashed when the late Corville Nohava ’69 showed up in uniform at my high school during VMI’s spring break, explained the dyke system, and then asked me to be his dyke. He reassured me that most members of the Corps were supportive of VMI integrating and that we black cadets would get a fair shake in the Rat Line,” Gore recalled.

The five who entered VMI in fall 1968 all made it through the first year. Wilkerson, remembering his rat year, said, “The Rat Line was not as physically demanding as I had feared, and I took good advice from my dyke to maintain a sense of humor. Humor helped me to overcome the emotional and psychological aspects of the Rat Line.

In addition to my dyke’s advice and helping hand, his roommates and plenty of upper-classmen offered friendship and provided top cover that ensured that no one would inordinately harass us. I’m not aware of any of my brother rats ever expressing any negative sentiment or being anything but supportive to us first African-American cadets, and I had the good fortune of having good relations with all of my roommates.”

Gene Williams ’74 had similar observations: “I liked the fact that we were all held to the same high and difficult standards; that we all knew what was expected when we did well and when we screwed up,” he said. “Although one could tell who came from wealth or poverty, in the barracks and on post, VMI was an equalizer.”

Ronnie Moore ’76 remembered, “I thought it was great that as 4th classmen you all started at ground zero. Everybody was equal in that regard. There was no lower, middle or upper class, and there really wasn’t enough time in the day to think about racism.”

There were lighter moments, as well. Gore recalled one evening his roommate suggested that the two of them take a shortcut across the Parade Ground – an upper class privilege – to get back to barracks: “It’s getting dark. They’ll never be able to tell we’re rats,” the roommate said.

Gore responded, “Fool. There aren’t any blacks in the upper classes.”

Suddenly thrust into an environment of restrictions and regulations, and in many cases away from home for the first time, virtually every cadet contemplates dropping out at some point. Many rats find themselves questioning the rigors of VMI, especially when compared to friends living a comparatively laid-back life at other universities.

The first African-American cadets experienced the same feelings, but they also encountered other factors unique to their particular situation.

Many felt a sense of obligation to not discredit their race, and to

Harry Gore ’72, pictured at left and above, was one of the first AfricanAmerican cadets to attend VMI. Gore made it through the strains of his rat year and was able to enjoy some lighter moments with his brother rats before graduating and becoming a military pilot.

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avoid an I-told-you-so from integration opponents. Lexington’s black community went out of their way to support the cadets. Sunday church attendance was mandatory, and the entire Corps would form up and march downtown to the church of their choice. The African-American churches warmly embraced the new cadets, with church members inviting them into their homes after services for Sunday lunch. The sight of young black men in a VMI uniform was a source of pride, and they would be stopped on the street and congratulated. Wilkerson observed that the “encouragement reminded us that our cadetship was more than just a personal journey: We were proxies for the hopes of many people.”

Whenever they were allowed off the post, black cadets would troop up Diamond Hill to enjoy home cooking and the opportunity to relax in a home environment. They were literally treated as a member of the family. These families lifted the black cadets through rough times and rejoiced with them in their triumphs. Those strong relationships have continued to this day, and many alumni visit their friends when they return to VMI. “The kindness of the black community has to have been the most uplifting experience for me. I believe it was a two-way street. The community was proud of us for being VMI cadets, especially after years of segregation, and we, as cadets, were honored and flattered that the community would accept us into their homes and their lives so that we would feel more at home while away from home,” recalled Ron Norman ’75.

men was the profusion of Confederate symbols around the VMI post.

Many of the black cadets didn’t expect to encounter them, and the Institute administration wasn’t expecting their reaction. One reason might be that they assumed VMI’s role in the Civil War was so widely known that it went without saying that symbols of the Confederacy would be present. To the administration, the Confederate battle flag and the playing of “Dixie” were simply reminders of the school’s heritage.

But to the African-American cadets, those symbols meant something entirely different. Bowman remembered an experience from 1964 when he and his father were driving through rural South Carolina one evening.

“My dad told me to keep my head down, but that made me look up all the more. I saw the fires and the blazing cross, the robes of the Klansmen with many Confederate flags being waved,” he recalled. “It was a vision I’ve never forgotten. Though I was not harmed, this image and what it represented toward me and all African-Americans came to be cemented all the more in my psyche as I grew older.”

Bowman, an excellent football player who was later recruited by the NFL, was unprepared for a cheerleader dressed as a Confederate soldier and waving a Confederate flag while the band played “Dixie” following a VMI touchdown. It brought back memories of anti-integration protesters at his high school.

“I went in to talk with the head coach and told him if that display was present on the sideline that I would never be on the field,” Bowman

Dick Valentine ’72 played football all four years at VMI. He chose the Institute because it offered a practical, affordable education in technical fields.

Valentine earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. Phil Wilkerson ’72 studying during his cadetship. Wilkerson achieved the rank of company commander while at VMI, followed by a career as a U.S. Army officer.

Although there were no African-Americans on the faculty or among the ranks of alumni, support came from those groups. The Big Brother program, an activity initiated by the Alumni Association, linked a young rat with an older alumnus who would volunteer to keep in touch throughout the year and provide the cadet with someone who could help put things in perspective. Col. Beverly M. Read ’41, the Alumni Review editor from 1971-86, offered counsel and continued as a source of guidance in the years following graduation. Several faculty members struck up relationships with the rats.

Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Von Bashay ’74 observed: “The most important thing to me was that the teachers in your area of study were always there to help you academically if you needed help.”

With time, the Institute leadership understood that long-standing, previously accepted traditions were insulting and belittling to AfricanAmericans. The most upsetting aspect of the VMI experience for these

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said. “He was upset with me and had not expected that conversation.”

Bowman was not alone in his feelings. Charles Tyler ’74, a basketball player, had a similar reaction to Bowman’s: “The playing of ‘Dixie’ before basketball games was a major concern. I sat during the playing of ‘Dixie’ at The Citadel, and the next week, I was called before General Irby [’39], the superintendent, to explain my action. It turned out to be one of the most positive experiences and discussions I had while I was at VMI.” The most problematic experience was mandatory participation in the annual New Market Day ceremony. Marching past Virginia Mourning Her Dead and looking into a sea of Confederate flags while the band played “Dixie” was viewed as a celebration of Southern resistance by the African-American cadets, who voiced their objections to the mandatory participation in the ceremony.

“I believe I am correct in saying that none of the African-American

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Wilkerson, Gore and Valentine at their 45th Reunion in September 2017. Since 1968, AfricanAmericans matriculating to VMI have held every upper leadership position while at the Institute, including class president, Honor Court president, regimental commander, battalion commander and company commander.

cadets had a problem with the New Market parade. Our problem was with VMI having a mandatory formation which concluded with the Corps marching to ‘Dixie’ and saluting the Confederate flag. We tried to explain to the administration that ‘Dixie’ might be a patriotic and motivating song to some, but to African-Americans, it was a degrading song that praised slavery,” Norman said.

The administration was reminded that Confederate symbols had vastly different meanings for different groups. What whites had seen as historical was seen by African-Americans as a desire to turn back the clock to segregation and oppression. Initially, black cadets could volunteer to take guard duty in exchange for marching in the parade, but that approach simply side-stepped the matter, and the problem grew larger as the numbers of African-Americans in the Corps increased.

Matters came to a head in 1975 when Norman, a high-ranking member of the regimental staff and vice president of his class, refused to march in the New Market parade. He was stripped of his rank and confined to his room. Two days later, Norman marched across the stage to receive his diploma, the bare sleeves of his coatee clearly showing the creases left by the chevrons he had worn days earlier. Because of its brief duration, his punishment was essentially symbolic; however, the repercussions of his actions were not. The administration had become very concerned by the growing disunity in the Corps, and in retrospect, this was probably a tipping point.

Col. William J. “Buck” Buchanan ’50B, the new commandant at the time, chose not to take a rigid and authoritarian stance with respect to dealing with objections to the ceremony, but instead played a leading role in seeking to resolve the problems by meeting with Corps representatives to reach an understanding. Changes were made in the format of the ceremony. While the stated purpose had always been to commemorate the bravery of the cadets who served and the sacrifice of the 10 cadets who died in the battle, it was clear that the Confederate flags and the playing of “Dixie” were distorting the significance of the event, and they were dropped. The purpose of the ceremony was also expanded to recognize the sacrifice of all alumni who have died in service to the nation. A concerted effort was and continues to be made to educate all incoming cadets about the commitment and sense of duty of the New Market cadets, focusing on the example they set for those who followed them in the Corps.

Racial integration occurred at VMI without incident at a time which saw disruption on other campuses. A great deal of credit for the manner in which it was implemented should go to the young men who broke the barrier – not only for meeting the challenges but also for the manner with which they conducted themselves. They earned the respect of their white

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contemporaries and set an example for the minority cadets who followed them by the manner with which they dealt with issues which were simply intolerable to them. They accepted the consequences of their actions and worked for resolution.

The military experience of VMI’s leadership also contributed to the successful execution of integration. These were men accustomed to making difficult decisions head-on and who recognized that adopting half-measures would smack of tokenism and not only bring discredit on the school, but be a disservice to the individuals involved. Furthermore, they recognized the importance of working through the elected class officers to ensure that their objectives and intent were clearly and widely communicated and understood throughout the ranks. Their efforts to work through the established leadership in the Corps and gain their support served to inhibit most of those who may have harbored deep racial animosities from expressing opposition. Shell’s decision to make only minimal changes in policy left little room for those who opposed integration to express their disapproval.

Three of the first five men who integrated VMI graduated. Wilkerson became the first African-American to attain the rank of cadet captain, commanding Company F his 1st Class year, and was designated a distinguished military student at graduation. In endorsing his nomination for the Hughes Trophy – given to the top Army ROTC graduate in the United States – Gen. James M. Morgan ’45, then-dean of the faculty, wrote: “Perhaps Lieutenant Wilkerson’s most valuable personal asset is always striving to do his best regardless of the difficulty of the task at hand. He is an individual of rare natural ability who promises to be one of the most outstanding of the VMI graduates.”

Valentine earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering and went on to earn a master’s degree from Cornell University.

He had a successful business career, holding an upper management position in the Human Resources Department at AT&T in New Jersey. Gore realized his dream of becoming a military pilot after being commissioned in the Air Force at graduation. His duties included a four-year tour on the faculty of the Air Force Academy after earning a Master of Science degree in applied mathematics from North Carolina State University. The remaining two young men did not graduate from VMI. Foster died in a tragic accident the summer following his rat year, and Randolph left VMI after two years.

Since 1968, African-Americans matriculating to VMI have held every upper leadership position while at the Institute, including class president, Honor Court president, regimental commander, battalion commander and company commander.

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First Spring Reunion April 20-21, 2018

Classes of 1978, 1988, 1998 & the Honored Class of 1968

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Second Spring

Reunion

April 23-24, 2018 Classes of 1943, 1948, 1953, 1958 & 1963

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Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

On Post New Market Day 2018

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On Post

Commissioning Class Largest in Recent History

by Ashlie Walter Commissioning numbers are up across the board for ROTC, with the Air Force expecting almost a triple jump in its commissioning class size.

In 2017, 15 cadets commissioned into the Air Force, according to Col. Steven Biggs, commander of the Air Force ROTC at VMI. Not including cadets needing summer classes, the commissioning Class of 2018 will have 42 cadets, the largest group in recent history.

“It makes me feel good, as a commander.

The previous commander and his staff laid the foundation,” said Biggs.

The increase is largely due to a programming change from the U.S. Air Force headquarters, which has allowed cadets to join the Air Force ROTC program later than the previously required three years.

VMI was fortunate in the fact that cadets are required to do all four years of ROTC, regardless of a commission, which made it easy for them to join for just one year, he explained.

“They still had to cover the other curriculums, like cramming in four years of programming.

The beauty of VMI is all cadets are required to have four years of ROTC. They are already caught up, and very easy for us to accept their training already,” he said.

However, after this year, the one- or two-year program will be done. Cadets with high qualifications who still want to join the Air Force by their 2nd or 1st Class year may be admitted

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on a case-by-case basis.

The temporary program was instituted when the Air Force Officer Training School reached capacity and couldn’t take any more people.

That’s when the ROTC programs stepped in to “widen the pool and fill that potential,” Biggs said.

Next year’s commissioning class will be fairly large, as well, with two years from now being closer to average, he said.

Meanwhile, Army ROTC is also on track to have one of the largest commissioning classes at 130 cadets.

“There’s a lot of interest in terms of commissioning,” said Col. Michael Wawrzyniak, Army ROTC commanding officer. “Currently, there’s no constraint on numbers, as long as we are able to keep the quality high and cadets physically and academically able to do what we need them to do.”

The Army asks for a certain number of officers each year, and VMI has often been able to exceed that mission. This year’s mission was 125 officers in the Army.

The last five years have shown a steady increase in commissioning numbers for the Army. With only 22 cadets commissioning in 1997, the recent numbers show the change in direction Army ROTC has taken over the past two decades.

In addition, the Class of 2018 will include 46 distinguished military graduates – about a

third of the class. The Army ranks all graduates intending to commission across the country, and those in the top 20 percent are given the honor of distinguished military graduate.

Wawrzyniak said scholarships can be a big incentive for cadets to join the Army. Currently, about 80 percent of the 2018 commissioning class is receiving some form of a scholarship – either for all four years or less.

Another recruitment tool is cadets learning about the Army’s job requirements through other cadets.

“Everybody’s able to talk about what goes on, as well as the system, here. Cadets are in touch with [alumni] out in the real world, or they hear from their dykes about it,” Wawrzyniak said.

The Class of 2018 is one of the largest in recent years, and the increase will correlate with the increase in commissions. The class was expected to graduate about 380 cadets, more than 200 of whom earned commissions.

According to Cmdr. Dan Turbeville, Naval ROTC executive officer, the Naval commissioning class is the largest since 1991, at 62 cadets.

For Naval ROTC, the numbers are a continuation of a recent trend of small but steady increases over the past five years.

Commissioning ceremonies for the Class of 2018 were held May 15.

(Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in the May 2018 Institute Report.)

VMI Alumni Review

Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies, and H. Lockwood McLaughlin, VMI Communications & Marketing.

On Post

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On Post

Graduation 2018

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Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

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On Post

Daniels Ceremony Offers Cadets a Chance to Reflect

by Cadet Ben Outland ’19 On March 7, 2018, 4th Class cadets met in the Daniels Courtyard for the annual Jonathan Daniels Ceremony.

The ceremony featured laying a wreath in front of the 3-by-4-foot bronze plaque dedicated to Daniels. With the commandant of cadets and the superintendent in attendance, the VMI pipe band played “Amazing Grace” as cadets and faculty stood somberly.

Cadet Liam Kelly ’21, a member of the newest class in barracks, attended the ceremony.

Afterward, he got the feeling that “they wanted us to know this courtyard meant something,” and that “anyone can make a difference in the world whether you commission or not.”

It was an important lesson for new 4th Class cadets, who are used to military training but are now beginning to more deeply understand the importance of the citizen-solider concept at VMI. Daniels’ story is of the utmost importance to the VMI spirit, and at the beginning of the Rat Line, all rats must attend a lecture and view a film hosted by Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System, about Daniels’ sacrifice.

Rats held that lesson with them as they endured the Rat Line. At the ceremony, newly minted 4th Class cadets paid their respects to Daniels once more.

Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, spoke to Joey Brown ’18, 1st Class president, and Finn Swenson ’18, regimental commander, after the Jonathan Daniels ’61 ceremony in Daniels Courtyard March 7.

Daniels was born and raised in Keene, New Hampshire, and matriculated to VMI with the Class of 1961. After graduating as the valedictorian of his class, he attended Harvard to pursue a graduate degree in English, but soon found his calling in ministry and began to pursue his divinity degree at Episcopal Theological School in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

In 1965, while working on behalf of voter

registration for the Civil Rights movement in Alabama, Daniels was killed by a shotgun blast as he protected Ruby Sales, a 17-year-old African-American. Dr. Martin Luther King called Daniels’ selfless act “one of the most heroic Christian deeds of which I have heard in my entire ministry.”

Daniels, who died wearing his class ring and represents the VMI citizen-soldier service concept, is honored by the Institute with the courtyard and the archway that joins the courtyard to Old Barracks. Daniels Arch bears the quote: “I wish you the decency and nobility of which you are capable,” which originates from Daniels’ valedictory address.

The ceremony offers 4th Class cadets a chance to reflect on the sacrifices inherent to the concept of the citizen-soldier.

“His commitment to a greater cause is an important lesson that we take from his story,” said Kelly. “You can leave from this place and make a major impact on society.”

(Editor’s Note: This article was first published in the March 2018 Institute Report.)

From left, Brown; Col. William Wanovich ’87, commandant; and Swenson saluted after placing a wreath in Daniels Courtyard. VMI photos

by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

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VMI Alumni Review

On Post

Cadet Leadership Enrichment Opportunities Program at the CLE The Institute has a distinct ability to develop leaders of character prepared for military and civilian service. Although leadership skills are instilled across post, VMI’s Center for Leadership and Ethics has a dual-focused mission to advance the understanding, practice and integration of leadership and character development at the Institute and to share insights gleaned from VMI’s programs with a broader national audience. The center translates that mission into three lines of effort – educate, engage and inspire – and has developed cocurricular programs to support those lines of effort. Cadet programs include the Cadet Leadership Book Program, Cadet-Superintendent’s Advisory Board, Cadet Ethics Team and Cadet Leadership Enrichment Opportunities program. The Cadet Leadership Enrichment Opportunities program seeks to further develop the skills of current or upcoming leaders in the Corps by providing opportunities to attend conferences or symposia hosted by federal service academies, senior military colleges and other like-minded institutions.

By providing these opportunities to cadets, the CLE is able to accomplish both tasks in their mission by advancing an individual cadet’s leadership development and exposing the VMI experience to other colleges and symposia attendees. The price of admission for cadets to participate in this program is simple: Remain in good academic and disciplinary standing. Upon their return from a conference, cadets write a reflective essay about best practices learned, best speakers or events and whether or not the CLE should continue to send cadets to that specific conference or symposium.

In academic year 2017-18, there were several programs available, including the American Veterans Center and the World War II Veterans Committee’s 20th Annual Conference in Washington, D.C.; VMI’s eighth Annual Leadership and Ethics Conference; the Alliance Linking Leaders in Education Conference and the Civil Military Relations Conference, both hosted by Tufts University; the U.S. Naval Academy Leadership Conference; the U.S. Air Force Academy National Character and Leadership Symposium; the U.S. Coast Guard Academy Ethics Forum; Texas A&M’s

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Student Conference on National Affairs; and The Citadel’s 11th Principled Leadership Symposium.

The Institute strives to send current and rising leaders, mainly 1st and 2nd Class cadets, to represent VMI at these events. The CLE works closely with the commandant’s staff to decide which cadets should attend a conference or symposium. The cadets heading out on the road have a solid, professional reputation across the Institute and have demonstrated that they are capable of representing themselves and the Institute well.

“We know the reputation of VMI is in good hands, because we are putting some of our best and brightest out there to represent VMI,” explained Col. Pat Looney, deputy director of the CLE. The majority of the conferences are open invites with no prerequisite work ups, so VMI receives the invitation and then selects cadets to send. The exception to that rule is the U.S. Military Academy McDonald Conference for Leaders of Character, which requires the selected cadet to prepare for the conference in advance so they are able to readily contribute.

Between 75 and 100 cadets participate in these leadership conferences and symposia during an academic year. Each conference is a little different; some are heavy on the active listening and learning side, while others are a chance for a cadet to passively learn from the presenter’s life story or message.

The majority of the funding to send cadets to these events comes from the CLE. For two specific enrichment opportunities, the CLE partners with the international studies and history departments: The International Humanitarian Law for Military Academies Competition in San Remo, Italy, and the Olmsted Staff Ride, respectively.

Looney explained that the Institute benefits greatly from sending cadets to these events, because “we are getting a better young man or young lady back. They can bring back what they learned and we have a year or two to gain from their experience. There is a mutual benefit to the cadets and VMI.” CLE leadership believes that cadet feedback validates the resources spent in support of this effort when cadets return with comments like this: “This weekend was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet some of America’s greatest heroes who define what it means to serve. VMI’s philosophy of the citizen-soldier is a true illustration of how these inspiring individuals carry themselves in their military and civilian careers.

Having attended multiple leadership conferences and hearing multiple speakers discuss aspects of United States military and politic climate, the American Veterans Center Conference was by far the most impactful,” and, “I am grateful for the opportunity to interact with cadets from other academies and have challenging discussions with them regarding the difficult ethical decisions that we will have to make as future officers.”

Alex Warren ’18, center, at Texas A&M’s Student Conference on National Affairs. Photo courtesy VMI Center for Leadership and Ethics.

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On Post

Business-Focused Summit Connects Cadets, Alumni

The March 18-20 Business Leadership Innovation Summit provided opportunities for alumni to mentor cadets about the business and entrepreneurship world through networking opportunities, panels, speakers and contests. BLIS is part of a larger effort by both alumni and professors at VMI to increase entrepreneurship training at the Institute. Above, Dean Kershaw ’68 speaks with a cadet at a BLIS event.

The Business Leadership and Innovation Summit is a collaborative effort to celebrate VMI alumni successes in business innovation. The summit affords a platform for alumni to bond, educate, mentor and inspire the next generation of Keydet business leaders and innovators.

“VMI has many successful alumni entrepreneurs and business leaders. We believe ... the totality of the education they get from VMI has something to do with this. The idea of the summit is to expose cadets to the reality that the training they get at VMI prepares them to be innovative leaders in the private, public and military sectors,” said Brig. Gen. Robert Moreschi, Ph.D., newly-appointed VMI dean of the faculty, who formerly served as head of the department of economics and business. “Cadets benefit from the inspirations and rich experiences of alumni while alumni benefit through networking and

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collaborations with other like-minded alumni and the Institute.”

Held March 18-20, 2018, the inaugural summit provided an avenue for reconnecting, networking and educating and inspiring cadets by tapping into the rich experiences of alumni in business, including alumni entrepreneurs. “VMI is the ideal place for an entrepreneurship program because the ... training that cadets have to go through sets a solid foundation to become a successful entrepreneur,” John Kemper ’68 said. Kemper is a military veteran who has worked in the public and private sector and owned and sold his own businesses, and who now mentors university students and individuals starting businesses in the Richmond, Virginia, metro area. VMI alumni “prefer to hire VMI people” because of the qualities the Institute instills, Kemper noted.

“Integrity, the time management, honesty – all

of that is missing in society today.”

Recently, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, endorsed the newly-launched Growth4VA campaign, which seeks reforms and reinvestment in Virginia’s top-ranked higher education system for job creation. The summit supplements this effort by providing cadets the education, mentoring, inspiration and networks relevant to support their self-growth in business.

Research shows that those with military experience are more entrepreneurial and have higher entrepreneurial success rates.

“I wish the summit was around when I was a cadet. When I graduated in 2010, I was set on a career in the Marine Corps. I had an incredible four years in the Corps, but when I ultimately decided to leave, it took me some time to figure out my options. I didn’t know what an MBA was or how transferrable my skills might be,”

VMI Alumni Review

On Post

Left: Brian Maguire ’18 and Jack Smith ’18 with Maj. Dee Mornah, Ph.D., assistant professor of economics and business. Maguire and Smith won first place in a contest held during BLIS. Right: Jeffrey Minch ’73 was the speaker for the summit.

Photos courtesy VMI Office of Communications and Marketing and Mornah.

said Barker Squire ’10. “The summit was a great way to introduce cadets to the world that most of them will ultimately join – the world of business.

In addition to educating cadets on options postgraduation/service, I see the summit as a way to give Keydets a head start on networking with our incredibly successful alumni.”

Nearly 60 alumni returned to post to provide mentorship to cadets during the summit, which benefits both alumni and cadets. Cadets had opportunities to learn from alumni experiences the valuable advantage a VMI education provides in the business world. Through interaction with cadets, alumni are able to connect their time and talent with the Institute at a personally rewarding level.

“The summit was an excellent start to what I hope will become a yearly tradition. While many cadets commission upon graduation, most will join the world of business at some point as entrepreneurs, executives, managers or investors,” noted Squire. “The world needs more honorable business leaders, and I can think of no better source than our very own VMI. This summit was a great start to closing the gap between cadets and our alumni.”

The summit began on a Sunday evening with a networking reception and dinner in Moody Hall.

Monday morning started with a welcome led by Maj. Dee Mornah, Ph.D., assistant professor of economics and business; Gen. Jeffrey Smith ’79, dean of the faculty; and Kemper. The rest of the morning consisted of hour long panels featuring several alumni, followed by a networking session, during which cadets presented posters to pitch

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ideas to interested alumni. The afternoon also included breakout sessions. The event concluded with dinner, when cadet winners were selected from the cadet poster session earlier in the day.

Moreschi introduced Jeffrey Minch ’73, who spoke about the value and uniqueness of VMI education in preparing graduates for entrepreneurship.

In a later interview, Minch – a veteran and entrepreneur who has also headed major companies – echoed Kemper’s comments, saying VMI is a great place to train entrepreneurs. An entrepreneur, he said, is a person “who takes a risk someone else would be unwilling to take” and VMI cadets have already taken a risk in attending the Institute. Entrepreneurs are leaders and team-builders, who take their teams of employees places the employees would “never go without [the entrepreneur] leading.”

“Very few schools in America teach leadership,” Minch noted. “VMI lives leadership.”

The leadership training is easily converted to the business world, he continued, whereas it is much more difficult to teach a person trained solely in business to be a leader.

Minch and Kemper are both part of an alumni steering committee working to bring increased entrepreneurial training to VMI. The summit was a realization of one part of the alumni steering committee’s goal, which includes numerous objectives. Among these objectives are increasing alumni mentorship for cadets and beginning this mentorship early in cadets’ time at VMI, not just during the1st class year; adding interdisciplinary entrepreneurship classes at the

Institute; partnering cadets and alumni during shorter-term summer programs to give cadets practical experiences; and facilitating business internships for cadets.

The objectives all lead to the multifaceted goal of teaching all cadets to “know the training they get here at VMI prepares them really well for the business and entrepreneurial world,” Mornah said, and with further expansion of entrepreneurship programs at VMI, to expose cadets to tools and resources to prepare them to enter the business and entrepreneurial world.

Mornah taught a mini pilot entrepreneurship course during the 2017-18 academic year. He will teach a full semester pilot course open to computer and information science majors – Entrepreneurship and Capstones – in fall 2018.

Alumni working in business and entrepreneurial realms are invited to connect with Mornah via the LinkedIn group https://www.linkedin.com/ groups/8642640.

“The inaugural Business Leadership Innovation Summit was a great success, and it set the foundation for an ongoing focus on innovative businesses at VMI,” said Bob Louthan ’82, VMI Alumni Association immediate past president.

The 2019 BLIS is already on the calendar, scheduled for April 11-13, 2019. The summit will begin with an informal networking evening, followed by a “cadet-centric” day, Mornah said, and will conclude with an alumni-centric last day, including a speaker and panels. For more information, please visit http://www.vmi.edu/academics/departments/economics-and-business/ business-leadership-and-innovation-summit.

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On Post

Updates from the CLE provided feedback to students who took part in the joint VMI and Washington and Lee University National Security Symposium and visited various ROTC classes.

WWI Commemorative Symposium: American Leadership and Generalship During the Great War

Maj. David Dixon ’99, CLE assistant director for leadership development, with members of the Cadet-Superintendent’s Advisory Board.

Cadets from the CLE’s CSAB Program Conclude Two-Year Research Project The Cadet-Superintendent’s Advisory Board met for their year-end briefing to Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, April 25, 2018.

Col. William J. Wanovich ’87, commandant of cadets, and retired Ambassador David C. Litt also attended. Litt served as the CLE’s leader-inresidence during the spring semester.

Each year, cadets serving on the board research an assigned topic and present their findings and recommendations to both the superintendent and commandant. Cadets exercise critical thinking, problem-solving and strategic planning skills while researching and briefing. Through the process, cadets gain valuable experience in presentation and public speaking. Both the superintendent and the commandant praised cadets for their efforts. The CSAB out-brief concludes a twoyear research project on Corps life skills, which included an alumni survey and cadet feedback.

Col. David Gray, Col. Pat Looney and Maj. David Dixon ’99, CLE staff members, supervised the board’s research and briefing, providing guidance and feedback on the board’s communications, assessments and briefing presentations.

Cadets Victor Kolle ’18 and Michael Hulcher ’18 represented the CSAB and presented the briefing.

to post who has a proven history of working in leadership roles in varied areas: industry, military, government or the nonprofit sector. They are normally on-hand for two weeks during the spring semester to foster a mutual exchange of ideas on leadership and ethics with cadets, staff and faculty. Litt visited post twice during the 2018 spring semester: March 5-10 and April 23-27. Litt spoke at the Superintendent’s Annual Leadership Dinner; his remarks addressed the need for foreign service agents and the ethics of State Department employees having a protected outlet for dissent without retaliation.

During his visits to the Institute, Litt attended several classes where he spoke, answered questions and engaged in discussions. He also

More than 100 participants attended the World War I Commemorative Symposium April 27-28, 2018. The Virginia WWI and WWII Commission partnered with VMI along with contributing partners the Marshall Museum, the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library and Museum, the United States World War One Centennial Commission and the Profiles of Honor mobile touring museum.

The conference opened Friday evening with an introduction by Col. David R. Gray, CLE director, who provided historical context on Europe in 1914-17. Presenters included Col. Robert J. Dalessandro ’80 from the American Battle Monuments Commission; Lt. Col. Kelly Jordan ’87 of American Military University, and Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System. Attendees had several options, including museum visits on post; a weapons presentation at the VMI Museum; and a trip to the Woodrow Wilson Museum in Staunton, Virginia. Experts discussed the role of Virginians – including VMI alumni – in the Great War.

2018 Leader-in-Residence The CLE’s 2018 spring leader-in-residence was retired Ambassador David C. Litt. The leader-in-residence program brings an individual

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Retired Ambassador David Litt, 2018 spring semester leader-in-residence, spoke during a lunch with cadet athletes.

VMI Alumni Review

On Post

Brig. Gen. Robert “Bob” Moreschi was named deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty. He assumed this post July 1, 2018, as VMI’s 11th dean. Please view the June edition of Turnouts at www.vmialumni.org/turnouts for more on VMI’s new dean. The 2019-Issue 1 Alumni Review will also include an article about Moreschi and his first months in this new post.

CLE Upcoming Conferences and Symposia Sept. 24, 2018 The Vietnam War at 50: Critical Reappraisals Oct. 2-3, 2018 VMI STEM Education Conference focus on engineering – Inspiring Teachers Oct. 29-30, 2018 VMI’s Annual Leadership and Ethics Conference Feb. 22-23, 2019 3rd Annual Commonwealth Cyberfusion and Virginia Cyber Cup Competition (invitation only) Mar. 26-28, 2019 30th Annual Environment Virginia Symposium April 12-13, 2019 Business Leaders Innovation Summit in partnership with the VMI economics and business department

Visit http://www.vmi.edu/cle to learn more about CLE programs or to link to the CLE conferences website and social media.

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Athletics Gibson New Keydet Head Wrestling Coach its daily operations, managing funds and directing 20 In March 2018, Dr. Dave Diles, VMI director of intercolcamp counselors and four clinicians. legiate athletics, announced that James Gibson accepted “In Jim Gibson we have found a highly experienced the position of head wrestling coach. coach with impeccable credentials,” Diles said. “He Gibson comes to the Institute by way of Bucknell Unihad an outstanding competitive career and is a high versity in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, where he served the achiever in coaching and recruiting at a prestigious past six years as the head assistant wrestling coach and institution. Most importantly, he articulated a vision recruiting coordinator for the Bison. On top of coaching, and plan for moving our wrestling program forward that Gibson was tasked with scouting and evaluating prospecwas compelling. Jim distinguished himself throughout tive student-athletes across the country, developing a our review process for having the most detailed recruitcompetitive schedule every year, managing team travel and ing plan and had done an extensive assessment of our accommodations, and overseeing and determining the best program and VMI. He’s the leader we need.” use of the program’s financial aid and scholarship budget.

Gibson began his coaching tenure at Clarion UniIn addition, Gibson monitored the academic standards versity of Pennsylvania as a graduate assistant coach and progress of the team’s 35 student-athletes, planned and from 2007-12 for a program that produced two Allimplemented on- and off-campus recruiting activities, aided Americans, 11 NCAA qualifiers, six PSAC champions, the regulation of the team’s yearly operating budget, and three EWL gold medal winners and four Academic cultivated potential donors to assist in reaching the team’s Gibson All-Americans. The Golden Eagles placed 18th at the yearly fundraising goals.

2012 NCAA Championship.

Gibson helped coach the 2014-15 Bison wrestling squad that went 15-4, A four-year starter at Edinboro University in Edinboro, Pennsylvania, reaching its highest ever national ranking at No. 22 and setting Bucknell’s Gibson qualified for the NCAA Championships as a senior after earning record for single season dual meet wins. The team placed third at the an Eastern Wrestling League runner-up finish at 197 pounds and was Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association championship in both a Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference champion. He started at the 2015 and 2016.

197-pound weight class on two NCAA Top 10 teams while at Edinboro.

“VMI is a school with a lot of history and tradition and the wrestling After college, Gibson qualified for the 2009 world team trials and was program has had some great wrestlers throughout the years,” Gibson said. the champion of the 2009 Northeast Regional qualifier. In 2008, he placed “I am excited to work with the current cadet-athletes to assist them with fourth at the Northeast Regional qualifier and finished in the top eight at their goals in the sport and to bring high-caliber recruits into the program. the 2008 U.S. National Championship’s Challenge Tournament to qualify I couldn’t be more excited for this opportunity. I would like to thank Dr. for the 16-man U.S. National Championships.

Diles, Lenny Brown, Jamie Severns and everyone else involved in the Gibson graduated from Edinboro in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in selection process. Their faith in me is greatly appreciated.” health and physical education with a concentration in health promotion.

Other highlights from Gibson’s time at Bucknell include three nationHe went on to earn his master’s degree in education with an emphasis in ally ranked All-Academic teams (2014-16), 26 EIWA placewinners and athletic coaching from Clarion in 2009. the program’s 100 percent graduation success rate for three consecutive He married his wife, Sarah, in May 2009. The couple have one years. Since 2015, Gibson has served as the co-owner and director of the son, James.

Bison System Wrestling Camp in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, overseeing

2018 Women’s Soccer Schedule Aug. 6 - Longwood (Exhibition) - Farmville, VA Aug. 10 - VCU (Exhibition) - Lexington Aug. 17 - Hampton - Hampton, VA Aug. 20 - S.C. State - Lexington Aug. 23 - Delaware State - Lexington Aug. 30 - Radford - Radford, VA Sept. 1 - American - Lexington Sept. 7 - UNC Asheville - Asheville, NC Sept. 9 - Campbell - Buies Creek, NC Sept. 13 - Richmond - Richmond, VA

Sept. 16 - William & Mary - Williamsburg, VA Sept. 21 - UNCG - Lexington Sept. 28 - Mercer - Macon, GA Sept. 30 - The Citadel - Charleston, SC Oct. 5 - Wofford - Lexington Oct. 7 - Furman - Lexington Oct. 12 - ETSU - Johnson City, TN Oct. 14 - Western Carolina - Cullowhee, NC Oct. 19 - Samford - Lexington Oct. 21 - Chattanooga - Lexington

Oct. 24 - Nov. 4 - SoCon Championship at Various Sites

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VMI Alumni Review

Athletics

Baseball Season Recap Keydet baseball went 26-27 in 2018, marking the most wins by a VMI club since winning 27 games in 2011. The Keydets enjoyed a year that saw them post wins over South Carolina and the University of Virginia, both of which were ranked when VMI bested them, as well as a triumph over Virginia Tech that gave them two wins over ACC schools in the same year for the first time since the early 90s.

VMI was also led by a school record six all-conference honorees, including Cadet Matt Pita ’19 and Peyton Maddox ’18 earning First Team All-SoCon honors.

Pita became the first Keydet ever to win three conference player of the week awards in the same year. He finished the season in the top five in the SoCon in 10 different categories, including leading in slugging percentage and total bases. He also became the first VMI player since 2008 to hit an inside the park home run and stole a school single-game

record six bases in a game against Longwood. Finally, Pita was named First Team All-ECAC, becoming the first VMI player to ever earn that recognition.

Maddox earned his first career all-conference honor on the strength of career highs in batting average and on-base percentage. Maddox hit .325 in conference play and had the 10th-highest on-base percentage in the league in SoCon games (.446). He was the second VMI catcher in the past four years to earn First Team All-SoCon honors.

Cadets Jake Huggins ’19 and Josh Winder ’19 were selected Second Team All-SoCon, while Cadet Nathan Eaton ’19 (Second Team, Coaches) and Will Malbon ’18 (Second Team, Media) were also honored.

Finally, Jonathan Hadra ’04, head coach, surpassed longtime VMI stalwart Donny White ’65 for the third-most coaching wins in school history with a late season triumph over Samford University.

Barbery ’18 Earns SoCon Postgraduate Scholarship The Southern Conference named Brandon Barbery ’18 as one of 10 postgraduate scholarship recipients for the 2017-18 academic year.

Barbery received the David Hart Scholarship.

A left-handed pitcher and team captain for the Keydets, Barbery was a weekend starter for the first three years of his career, going 5-3 in 2015 en route to earning SoCon All-Freshman honors. As of May 1, 2018, Barbery had made nine appearances with three starts. He collected a win over No. 15 University of Virginia Feb. 20, 2018, and earned the Gen. Shale SoCon Student-Athlete of the Week honors for his efforts. Barbery majored in biology and held a 3.95 GPA. His honors thesis on neurobiology research related to Parkinson’s disease was published in the scientific journal, Toxics, and he will attend medical school in the fall.

The president of VMI’s chapter of Beta Beta Beta biology honor society, Barbery was a member of the VMI Institute Honors Program and was inducted into the Phi Eta Sigma freshman honor society. He has also logged hundreds of hours of community service, including many during his summer spent playing with the Brazos Valley Bombers in College Station, Texas.

While with the Bombers, he participated

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Barbery ’18 in weekly reading to children, Habitat for Humanity projects and a church rebuilding and cleaning. He also volunteered at numerous baseball camps and local fishing events.

Barbery has served as a teaching assistant at VMI, presented at the SoCon Undergraduate

Research Forum and held the positions of squad, team and platoon leader as a member of the Army ROTC at VMI. For more information on the other SoCon postgraduate scholarship recipients, please visit SoConSports.com.

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Athletics

Water Polo Season Recap The Keydet women’s water polo team enjoyed another spectacular season after qualifying for the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Tournament for a second straight year. Although the Keydets were unable to snag a victory at the league tournament, VMI finished the season with a 20-12 record and 8-6 mark in the conference standings. The Keydets recorded their second consecutive 20-win season – one of only nine teams in the country to win 20 or more games in each of the last two seasons. The Keydets also scored 363 goals this season, second most in program history.

Already the program’s all-time leading scorer as of her 2nd Class year, Shelby Barkley ’18, center, finished her illustrious VMI career with 314 goals, which is 123 more than the previous record of 191 career goals set by former Keydet Mackenzie Perkins ’15. The only record she needed to break heading into the 2018 season was the 2013 single-season goals mark held

by Celine Lazzaro ’15 (93 goals), which Barkley attained by totaling 107 goals during the season. To accomplish the feat,

Shelby Barkley ’18 took a shot in a home match against George Washington University March 17. Despite a tough 14-12 loss in overtime, Barkley scored three goals on five shots and logged one assist.

Natalie Rivas ’18 registered two goals on four shot attempts and tallied four steals in a 19-11 win over Gannon University.

the Riverside, California, native averaged 3.34 goals per match, also topping the previous program-best mark of 2.91 goals per match average.

Natalie Rivas ’18 also finished an outstanding Keydet career, as she played in 115 matches over the past four seasons – a new program record. She also graduated as the program’s No. 3 alltime scorer with 185 career goals after notching 56 this season, third most on the team.

Both Barkley and Rivas were named to the All-MAAC First Team for their efforts during the season.

Cadet Sarah Dolitsky ’19 had a breakout year by scoring 70 goals for the season, the most of her career for a single season and second most on the team. She is only the third Keydet in program history to hit the 70-goal milestone.

Cadet Isabel French ’20, goalie, continued to dominate in the cage as she became the program’s all-time saves leader midway through her 3rd Class season with 592 – and counting – with two years to go. She also set a single season program record with

306 saves for the year and a record for best goals-against average (7.9) for a season, almost two goals per game lower than her 4th Class season in 2017.

The Keydets lose the services of Barkley, Rivas, Sophia DelBondio ’18, Catie Berry ’18, Rebecca Serrano ’18 and Haley Scott ’18 but look to continue the upward trend of success that Ryan Pryor, head coach, has assembled during the past four years at the helm.

Although she played only half the match, Cadet Isabel French ’20, goalie, recorded three saves and allowed only three goals in a 19-11 victory over Gannon. Photos courtesy Chuck Steenburgh ’86.

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VMI Alumni Review

Athletics

Track Season Recap Cadet Jahanzib Shahbaz ’20 won the men’s 800 meter, leading VMI track and field’s efforts at the SoCon Championships in May in Cullowhee, North Carolina. Shahbaz stood atop the podium for the 800 after clocking in at 1:53.71, just ahead of the runner-up effort by Josh Willard ’18 of 1:54.25. Also earning all-conference honors on the men’s side was Lee Warren ’18, who wrapped up his Keydet career with a third-place finish in the 110 hurdles (14.46).

Other results included Donovan Walton ’18 finishing third in the javelin (55.91 M/183’5”) with a personal best effort and Cadet Andrew Arlint ’19 placing fourth in the pole vault (4.75 M/15’7”).

On the women’s side, Cadet Tiffany Quick ’19 delivered the top finish

of the day with a runner-up effort in the discus (43.38 M/142’4”) a few spots ahead of the sixth-place effort by Cadet Maura Logan ’20 (39.45 M/129’5”).

Kerisha Goode ’18 earned a pair of top-five finishes, highlighted by an all-conference effort in the 200 meter, where she finished third in 24.51. Goode was also fourth in the 100 meter in 11.96.

Julia Logan ’18 also earned an all-conference finish, placing third in the high jump (1.63 M/5’4 1/4”), and Cadet Sarah Leckman ’21 was fourth in the shot put (13.08 M/42’11”).

In the open 400 meter, Cadet Ariana Ruffin ’21 was seventh (57.63) with the second-fastest time in program history.

Lacrosse Season Recap The 2018 season can be defined as another successful one in the VMI lacrosse annals.

For a third consecutive season, the VMI lacrosse team won two games over Hampton University and the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and individual accomplishments racked up.

Wesley Sanders ’18, attack, eclipsed the century mark in career points April 28 by registering two assists against Jacksonville University to become only the 17th Keydet since 1983 to accomplish 100 career points. Adding a goal a few days later against No. 10 University of Virginia, he joined another exclusive VMI lacrosse club by tallying his 70th career goal, The Keydets celebrated with Cadet John Daniel ’20, attackman, who finished the game versus as he put one in with only four minutes left on the University of Richmond with seven goals, a Southern Conference single game record and tied the clock in what was the season finale. for third in the VMI record book.

Cadet Kyle Walsh ’19, defender, was named to the All-SoCon First Team for the country in faceoff winning percentfirst time of his career, as he ranked age at .619 for the season – second second in the nation in caused turnbest in the league. overs per game at 2.82 and 10th in Cadet John Daniel ’20 also had a the NCAA in groundballs at 7.00 breakout season, as he recorded seven per game, both tops in the Southern goals against the University of RichConference. mond March 10, which broke a SoCon He anchored a defensive backline record for a league game and tied for that was especially tough throughout third in the VMI history book for goals the season, ranking fifth in the NCAA in a single game. in caused turnovers per game at 9.27.

Cadet Bill Osteen ’21, goalie, had a Cadet Eric Lane ’21 also ranked in terrific season in the circle, as he ranked the top 10 nationally (No. 7) in caused 15th in the country in saves per game turnovers per game at 2.27 per outing. Wesley Sanders ’18 looks for a shot against Bellarmine. Despite the at 11.09.

Cadet A.J. Krstulovic ’20, faceoff loss for the Keydets, Sanders scored a goal in the game and would The team will use the collective indispecialist, was named to the All-SoCon go on to earn his 100th career point the following weekend at Jack- vidual success stories achieved during sonville. Photos courtesy Chuck Steenburgh ’86.

Second Team, as he ranked 10th in the the year to build on in 2019 and beyond.

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Events

Legacy Day 2018 Legacy Day is an annual event during which the Alumni Agencies invite alumni to bring their children or grandchildren to VMI for the day to share in the VMI spirit. Legacy Day 2018 took place April 14, a warm, sunny Saturday.

“It was a total team effort,” said T.J. Lighton ’15, program outreach coordinator.

“Folks from all around post put their heads together to make the day special for our alumni and their families. Everyone from the superintendent’s office to the laundry department played a role.”

After checking in, each legacy was assigned to a group based on their age.

Everyone proceeded to the Parade Ground, where the legacies were met by their cadet group leaders. “It was important that we had cadets there for the kids. Cadets Catie Berry ’18, Jessi Slakman ’19 and Nate Mumford ’19 were instrumental in the day’s success. They recruited volunteers and executed the plan of the day seamlessly,” explained Lighton.

The groups spent the first half of the day in the Corps Physical Training Facility, where Capt. Isaac Slone and his cadre guided the different groups through various stations and obstacles. From there, the cadets led their groups to the baseball field, where all participants participated in a cookout and were encouraged to stay and watch the Keydet’s baseball team take on the Western Carolina Catamounts.

Lighton explained, “I thought the cadets made the day. There were so many people who came up to me throughout the event to comment on how great the cadets were. Obviously, the legacies who were here already have a strong VMI influence in their lives, but to have the cadets there to interact with them was huge. I also think it says a lot about the 30-plus volunteers we had, because it was an open weekend. They could have left to go home or to hang out with friends at other schools, but they stayed at VMI for the day to make the day special for our alumni and their families.”

In all, more than 300 people attended Legacy Day 2018, and more than 150 of them were legacies. Age ranges were between 10 months and 17 years old.

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VMI Alumni Review

Photos by Elaine Wood, contributing photographer.

Events

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Events

Supporters Recognized at Annual Benefactors Luncheon

Warren J. Bryan ’71, VMI Foundation chief operating officer, addressed those attending the luncheon.

Paul Conteh ’18 and Ross Schmeisser ’18 spoke about their experience at Lockheed Martin’s Engineering Ethics Case Competition.

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Lt. Col. Gary Trinkle ’74 with his cousin, Jenne Merkli. Special mention was made of the scholarship established by Trinkle and his wife, Alison, in honor of Trinkle’s mother, Virginia.

VMI Alumni Review

VMI photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin, VMI Communications & Marketing.

On April 13, 2018, more than 100 benefactors were recognized at an annual luncheon for their generous support of the mission of VMI and the cadets who attend. Many benefactors – those alumni and friends who have established scholarships, professorships, chairs and other funds – or their representatives were in attendance, along with 66 cadets and 49 other guests who included members of VMI’s leadership, faculty and staff, as well as the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees.

The Benefactors Luncheon, hosted by the VMI Foundation, is 16th of its kind. “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to sit down and talk to cadets we support. We look forward to it each year, and we are reminded of the caliber of students who attend VMI, and the amazing faculty and program here,” stated one long-term attendee.

During the luncheon, T. Bryan Barton ’68, VMI Foundation president, addressed the donors. After describing the important role that private financial support plays at the Institute and how almost all of the non-governmental scholarship aid comes from the VMI Foundation and the VMI Keydet Club, he stated why he enjoys this particular event. “Quite literally, it puts a face – actually many faces – on our donors’ generosity. They can see ... the potent

Events effects that philanthropy has on cadets: Opportunities granted, horizons widened, doors opened and potentials realized. This opportunity to spend time with and, in some instances, meet for the first time the benefactors of their particular scholarship lets our cadets see the depths of devotion that the VMI family has to their success.”

Barton illustrated the notion that behind every gift is a unique story by highlighting the generosity of Gary L. Trinkle ’74, and his wife, Dr. Alison M. Trinkle, who recently fully endowed the Virginia S. Trinkle Memorial Scholarship, which will support a cadet majoring in English, rhetoric and humanities from 3rd Class year through 1st Class year. “What makes this gift so special is the person who it honors,” said Barton. “Ginnie Trinkle performed that task which often goes unsung, but every cadet knows is critically important: She was the parent of a cadet. Actually, she was the parent of two cadets – Gary Trinkle and his brother, Edwin [’70]. That’s eight consecutive years of being a VMI parent.”

After he concluded his remarks, Barton introduced Cadets Paul Conteh ’18 and Ross Schmeisser ’18 and Col. Jay Sullivan of the mechanical engineering department. In February, the two cadets took part in Lockheed-Martin’s Engineering Ethics Case Competition. Aimed to prepare undergraduate students from technical disciplines to face the ethical challenges of the 21st century, the competition demanded that each team analyze the engineering, business and ethical aspects of a certain case and then recommend solutions. Advised by Sullivan before the competition, the cadets placed third out of 12 teams (the University of Arizona and Virginia Tech placed second and first place, respectively).

The three discussed their experiences preparing for the event and described the competition. Both cadets mentioned that living in VMI’s challenging environment prepared them for the rigors of the competition, citing a moment when they were told to cut a presentation, and that their experience living with the Honor Code prepared them to think deeply about the ethical component of the challenge.

As always, the luncheon provided plenty of opportunities for cadets to meet with the alumni and friends who support them and strengthen the ties they have with each other; ties that frequently continue well past the cadets’ graduation. “Spending time with those who have established the scholarships that support them helps cadets understand the intense commitment that the VMI family has to their success and to the Institute overall,” said Stephen Maconi, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer. “We hope that it also prompts them to start considering what role in providing this type of support that they’ll play in future.”

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Howard E. Cobb ’62 spoke with Cadet Oladokun Ekundayo ’19 during the luncheon.

T. Bryan Barton ’68, VMI Foundation president, welcomed the benefactors, cadets, faculty and staff to the event.

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Events

Jeff “Pup” Morgan ’80 Leadership Outing

The Keydet Club welcomed more than 200 leadership donors and guests for the annual Jeff “Pup” Morgan ’80 Leadership Outing June 1, 2018. It was a beautiful day in Lexington as 104 golfers attempted to channel their best Jack Nicklaus impression at the Lexington Golf & Country Club, while others enjoyed tennis with Dan Earl, head basketball coach; and Jonathan Hadra ’04, head baseball coach. A final group showed off their shooting skills at Quail Ridge Sporting Clays.

The daylong stewardship event culminated with a wonderful banquet catered by the Southern Inn and a program where the ever-enthusiastic Scott Wachenheim, head football coach, highlighted team progress and recognized the wonderful work of all of the head coaches at VMI. He

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closed by thanking Keydet Club donors for their continued investment in VMI’s cadet-athletes and punctuated the impact made by their generous and loyal support.

Buzz Birzenieks ’64, Keydet Club Board of Governors president, closed the program with a board resolution offering special thanks to Donnie Ross ’74, Keydet Club vice president, who retired June 30 after 20 years. It was a wonderful day.

The Keydet Club is ever grateful to its donors, especially the more than 900 leadership donors whose financial support helps make VMI’s remarkable education accessible and affordable to cadet-athletes.

VMI Alumni Review

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Events

Boise Chapter Holds First Gathering On Feb. 15, 2018, Boise area alumni gathered for the first time at 10 Barrel Brewing for drinks and dinner. In attendance at the event were Mark Draper ’84, Jeffrey Morrison ’99, David Davis ’66 and James Smith ’02.

Hampton Chapter Holds Old Corps Luncheon Hampton Roads area alumni gathered for an Old Corps luncheon March 15, 2018. Andrew Deal ’12, Keydet Club vice president, hosted the event. Pictured at the gathering were, clockwise from left, Sean Hingley ’07, regional director; Bob Heely ’69; Deal; Lee Barnes ’69; Ed Blair ’72; Hal Hostetler ’68; Donnie Ross ’74, Keydet Club vice president; and Dave Bisset ’60.

Jonathan M. Daniels 1961 Seminary Scholarship Doctor G. Lee Southard ’59 and his family established the Jonathan M. Daniels 1961 Seminary Scholarship in 1985. The purpose of the scholarship is to assist VMI graduates pursuing an advanced degree leading to Protestant Christian ministry. The scholarship is named in honor of Jonathan M. Daniels ’61, who, after graduating from VMI, followed a call to ministry and entered seminary.

For more information, applications and instructions, please contact Mary Cannon, administrative assistant in the VMI Chaplains’ Office, at cannonml@vmi.edu. The degree pursued must lead to service as a pastor or military chaplain in Protestant ministry. The deadline for submitting the application is July 15 of each year. Scholarships are awarded in August.

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Florida Alumni Gather Jim Joustra ’76 and Jack McEwan ’65 visited Harry Siebert ’42 and his wife, Joan, in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, March 19, 2018. They talked with Siebert – who is one of VMI’s 10 oldest alumni – about his cadet time in VMI’s cavalry, his active duty time in the horse cavalry patrol on the Mexican border and his World War II duty in the European theater.

VMI Alumni Review

Events

Minnesota Chapter Holds Kick-Off Event The Minnesota Chapter held a kick-off at the American Burger Bar in Minneapolis, Minnesota, April 12. Attending the event were, from left, Peter Fisher ’15, Rick Sheridan ’82, Ron Reimann ’85, Dale Vaughn ’56, Phil Jones ’88, Dano Owens ’97, Dariush Akhavan ’79, John Bangs ’75, Russ Johnson ’78, Greg Gooch ’88, Brent Schaufert ’15 and Rob Clark ’90.

South Florida and Treasure Coast Chapters Hold Dual Chapter Event

The Southern Florida and Treasure Coast Chapters met for dinner at P.F. Chang’s restaurant in Boca Raton, Florida, March 24, 2018. The gathering was the second annual dual-chapter event.

VMI Seeks Commissioning Information for Classes of 1990-2009 In order to more accurately reflect commissioning percentages at VMI, the Institute is seeking to uncover those alumni who have commissioned in any branch of service following their graduation through an Officer Candidate Program or other commissioning avenue. VMI believes that there may be a

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sizeable number of alumni in this category. If you commissioned after graduation, by some means other than direct commission through VMI ROTC, please contact Col. Gary Bissell ’89, deputy chief of staff and operations, by email at bissellga@vmi.edu or by phone at 540/464-7104.

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Events

Upstate/Pigsah Chapter Hosts Event

The Upstate South Carolina/Pigsah, North Carolina, Chapter held an event March 25, 2018, at the St. Paul Mountain Vineyards in Hendersonville, North Carolina, in which the chapter formally installed leadership and discussed upcoming events.

Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, attended and gave an update on news from VMI.

Williamsburg Chapter Holds Old Corps Luncheon

The Williamsburg Chapter hosted an Old Corps luncheon at the Center Street Grill in February 2018. Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, attended and shared news from VMI. Several local area chapters were represented, and both alumni and spouses enjoyed lunch. Sean Hingley ’07, Hampton Roads regional director, also attended. The Williamsburg Chapter hosts three to four luncheons per year.

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VMI Alumni Review

Events

Wilmington Chapter Holds Annual Oyster Roast

The Wilmington, North Carolina, Chapter held its annual oyster roast at the Wrightsville Beach Brewery March 18, 2018. Approximately 45 alumni, spouses and guests attended.

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

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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 Edward 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 Col. Atin Basu at basuchoudharya@vmi.edu.

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Events

Westminster Canterbury Richmond Hosts VMI Christmas Party The Westminster Canterbury Richmond retirement community, located in Richmond, Virginia, hosted a VMI dinner party before Christmas. Guests included Thomas G. “Tom” Henning ’89, who is a construction project engineer. (Editor’s Note: We are sorry to note the death of Jo Ann O’Hara, widow of Robert G. O’Hara ’35. Mrs. O’Hara died April 18, 2018. For many years, she submitted information and photos to the Alumni Review.)

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7 10

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1. Theda Royall (widow of William A. Royall ’37).

2. Juliet Goode-Hupp (widow of Henry T. Hupp Jr. ’44).

3. Thomas S. and Camilla Williamson III ’54.

4. Margaret “Peggy” Stallings (widow of James M. Stallings ’52).

5. Charles B. “Charlie” Miller ’42.

6. Edward L. “Ed” and Sarah Smith ’50B. 7. True M. Luck (wife of Charles S. Luck ’55).

8. Jackie Whitmore (widow of John E. “Jack” Whitmore ’42), Bettie

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14 Jacobson (widow of Ted B. Jacobson ’47) and Elizabeth Lee (widow of Harry G. Lee ’47).

9. George C. and Mary Hutter ’52.

10. Kenneth M. “Ken” and Chris Perry ’53.

11. Ann Artz (widow of Edwin H. Artz Jr. ’53) and R.B. Barnes ’54.

12. John W. and Susan Frazer Jr. ’65.

13. Thomas G. Henning ’89.

14. Henning and Jo Ann O’Hara (widow of Robert G. O’Hara ’35).

VMI Alumni Review

Progress Class of 1968 Presents Initial Proceeds of 50th Reunion Campaign

The Class of 1968 celebrated its 50th Reunion April 20-21, 2018. With 299 brother rats and guests attending, the class participated in a number of events over the two days. On Friday, many took part in a golf outing, while others went to Quail Ridge Sporting Clays for a clay pigeon shooting contest. That evening, as the honored class during the spring reunion weekend, the class gathered in Marshall Hall for dinner with the superintendent.

On Saturday, after a memorial service in Jackson Memorial Hall and the traditional class picture on the steps of Preston Library, the class participated in the time-honored reunion parade. Five brother rats representing the Class of 1968 – T. Bryan Barton, Dean A. Kershaw, W.M. Jeffress Jr., Thomas J. Hickey

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and George H. Roberts Jr. – presented the Institute with initial proceeds of the class’ 50th Reunion Campaign totaling more than $14 million during the traditional reunion parade. Robert P. Louthan ’82, then-VMI Alumni Association president, and Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, accepted the check on behalf of the VMI Alumni Agencies and the Institute, respectively.

Added to the $1.83 million raised by the Class of 1992 for its 25th Reunion Campaign and the $222,000 that the brother rats of the Class of 2007 donated for their 10th Reunion Campaign, this brings the grand total raised during this academic year’s reunion campaigns to more than $16.1 million.

Following the parade, the class joined the

other reunion classes in marching into the Old Barracks courtyard and giving the traditional Old Yells. The reunion’s formal events ended that evening with a class dinner at Washington and Lee University’s Evans Hall.

John J. Wranek III ’85, VMI Foundation vice president for annual and reunion giving, stated, “Reunions allow our alumni to reengage with each other and the Institute in extremely positive ways. Reunion campaigns emphasize the bond alumni have with every young person who follows them into barracks and spurs their energy and generosity – which translates into gifts and commitments that strengthen every aspect of the amazing education that VMI provides its cadets.” Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

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Progress

Coach Mike and Carol Bozeman Track and Field Scholarship Some 90 members of VMI’s track alumni gathered to personally deliver a surprise to Mike Bozeman, their former coach, Feb. 24, 2018. For several months, a committee of former track athletes under the direction of Doug Bartlett, Keydet Club vice president, quietly conducted an effort to build an initiative to both thank Bozeman and offer financial support to VMI’s track program: the Coach Mike and Carol Bozeman Track and Field Scholarship.

Under the guise of visiting Lexington in conjunction with the Southern Conference Indoor Track and Field Championship hosted in VMI’s new Corps Physical Training Facility, Bozeman Bozeman, left, in 2008. and his family were invited to an after-meet social at the Lexington Golf & Country Club. There, after brief remarks by Meade King ’85, chief operating officer of the Keydet Club, and Dr. Dave Diles, VMI director of intercollegiate athletics, Bozeman was caught completely by surprise as several of his athletes presented the scholarship. After regaining his footing, Bozeman delighted the gathering with tales from his years coaching at VMI. Throughout his 23-year career, Coach Bozeman and his talented teams captured 12 Southern Conference titles, numerous individual athlete records and accolades and he was named SoCon Coach of the Year 13 times. By any measure, few have been more impactful on the development of cadet-athletes or more zealous in support of the VMI spirit.

A former track athlete said it best when it comes to Bozeman: “Take a few moments to think back on all the experiences your time as a VMI track athlete afforded you.

Although some of us span different eras in the track program history and may have slightly different memories, the common denominator for all of us is the mentorship of Coach Bozeman. For some of us, he made good athletes great. For others, he saw a diamond in the rough that was overlooked. For many of us, he just plain recognized someone who would benefit from the type of life experiences and selfrealization that can only come from challenging yourself to be the best you can be on and off the track! For all of us he was not only coach but an advocate and mentor.”

As a scholarship that now exists in perpetuity, donations may be made by anyone and at any time to the Coach Mike and Carol Bozeman Track Scholarship.

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A Day for VMI On May 1, 2018, hundreds of alumni and friends participated in VMI’s Day of Giving.

With the theme of Moe Needs a Ride, it urged the VMI family to make a gift to the Institute to help Moe. This event garnered more than $270,859 in immediate support – more than enough to get Moe back to barracks by taps.

While this was the first time that VMI joined other colleges and organizations in conducting a day of giving, it was not the first time that alumni have been urged to set aside one day to give to the Institute. The first “day of giving” actually occurred 101 years to the day before the recent event. And, like the event this May, it was aimed at reinforcing VMI’s proud citizen-soldier tradition.

Before World War I, it had become apparent to many leading Americans – including the presidents of numerous colleges and among them VMI’s superintendent, Brig. Gen. Edward G. Nichols – that if the United States entered a major conflict, the country would not have enough trained officers. In 1913, the U.S. Army established Student Military Camps – which were supported strongly by Maj. Gen. Leonard Wood, Army chief of staff – to help alleviate the situation. In 1915, the Plattsburgh Camps succeeded them. Congress took matters in hand the following year, passing the National Defense Act of 1916 which, among several provisions,

This flier was used to appeal to alumni during the fundraising campaign in 1917.

VMI Alumni Review

Progress

For almost three decades, cavalry and horse-drawn artillery were fixtures on post, and horses were part of every cadet’s education. established the Reserve Officer Training Corps – a uniform, nationwide program of officer training.

At the time, the cavalry remained an important arm of the Army, and almost all field artillery was horse-drawn. Thus, what was known as “mounted instruction” was an essential part of ROTC training. Under the terms of the new law, however, while the Army would provide horses, forage, equipment and a training cadre, VMI was required to build the stables and training grounds for the horses.

As it has since its earliest days, in order to raise the necessary funds – $10,000 – the Institute turned to its alumni. In January 1917, Nichols contacted William Couper ’904, who was a successful railroad executive in New York City and had established the New York Alumni Club in 1907, and asked him to organize the effort.

Couper agreed and, with seven other alumni in support, set to work with a purpose. The most daunting task was the creation of mailing lists. Starting with an admittedly incomplete list of 1,318 alumni compiled in 1915, they asked alumni chapters and individual alumni for names and addresses. In the space of three painstaking months, the committee created a card index containing more than 4,000 names and addresses.

The next question was what shape the mailing would take. It was decided to create a one-page circular that would present the necessary information and appeal for the recipient’s participation. An envelope stamped with the class of the recipient but otherwise blank and a stamped envelope addressed to Nichols, the chairman of the effort, would accompany it. The idea was the

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gift in the form of, as the circular stated, “draft, check, money order or coin of the realm” would go into the numbered envelope that, along with others, would be placed in a ballot box, thus allowing donors to remain anonymous. Those who wanted an acknowledgment of their gift were asked to enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope in which Nichols would enclose a note of thanks.

Just as the 2018 Day of Giving had a hook, specifically Moe Needs a Ride, so too did the effort in 1918: A Day for VMI. This idea came from C.F. Dykeman ’906, a member of the committee. As the circular stated, “Every man who has worn the Grey can afford to give ONE DAY’S EARNINGS TO V.M.I.” The day chosen was

the same in 1917 and 2018: May 1.

While the Day of Giving differed from A Day for VMI in that it had no stated goal, it was, like the 1917 effort, a success. The 1917 campaign exceeded its goal, raising $11,999.14 against costs of $300. Among the alumni who participated was then-Capt. George C. Marshall ’901, who gave $10, which is a little more than $212 in today’s dollars.

American involvement in World War I delayed the arrival of the men, horses and equipment associated with ROTC. The war also delayed the construction of the new facilities to house the horses. On July 7, 1919, 100 horses arrived, and the stables were ready for them Nov. 1, 1919.

Over the next few decades, hundreds of VMI cadets learned the basics of being an officer in these facilities. Many took these lessons, added them to what they had learned in the Institute’s classrooms and laboratories, and through practical application, wrote another brilliant chapter of service to country.

The willingness of alumni to heed the Institute’s call to give May 1, 1917, was founded in the firm belief in the importance of the citizen-soldier and the Institute’s special role in providing such leaders for the country. Later wartime meritorious military service by VMI alumni on land, sea and in the air stemmed from the generous giving of alumni who supported the Institute on A Day for VMI. Now, VMI will be better equipped to continue its mission of graduating “fair specimens of citizen-soldiers” thanks to those alumni and friends who heeded its call to give generously to it May 1, 2018.

Donations from alumni were used to build these stables, shown here in the 1920s.

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Progress

Day of Giving Supports the Corps of Cadets

The Day of Giving storyline began with VMI mascot Moe stranded in New York City. Through alumni giving, Moe was able to city-hop back to Lexington, making it back to barracks in time for taps. The event energized alumni and friends of VMI, with nearly 900 people making gifts.

The VMI Alumni Agencies, conducted its first Day of Giving from 11:30 p.m. April 30 until the same time May 1. When the gifts received during those 24 hours were tallied, they added up to $271,000 from 868 donors, including $100,000 in challenge money from an anonymous donor.

“Many schools across the country have engaged alumni and friends through a day of giving and enjoyed considerable success,” said Steve Maconi, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer. “Not only are days of giving financially successful, they also provide an opportunity for alumni to engage in the effort by wearing their school colors, attending regional events and sharing the opportunity to support the school with family and friends.

Considering the intense loyalty that members of the VMI family have toward the Institute, we decided to host a day for VMI.” “We knew we wanted to achieve the most online gifts in one day in the history of VMI, but our first time out of the gate, we were without benchmarks on which to set specific goals,” said Amy Goetz, VMI Alumni Agencies chief communications officer. “So, we created the goal of getting Moe a ride back to barracks while unlocking challenge gifts throughout the day. Thus, the theme ‘Moe Needs a Ride’ was born, and by giving, alumni and friends would help Moe make his way from New York City – via Philadelphia, Baltimore, Washington and Richmond – back to post. It was backed

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by a robust social media and digital marketing communications effort aimed at getting the VMI family involved, and they got involved in a big way.”

Throughout the day, as the number of donors and the amount of gifts received kept climbing, the level of excitement rose, too.

“It was amazing to see the large number of emails and growing number of comments on social media posts,” said Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies graphic design and marketing manager. “People were sharing in the excitement of the event.” Tim Thompson ’77 participated at every level. He wore his colors, posted a photo of himself, gave a gift and shared his sentiments on social media, “I am honored and proud to donate money to VMI’s first Day of Giving. Plus, I wore my VMI alumni colors. God bless VMI ...

OohYa!” They also had fun prodding each other on. Mark Benvenuto ’83 wrote, “Hey, if they got a lazy, cheapskate ... bum like me to donate, the rest of you ‘fair specimens of citizen soldiers’ should be able to. Good luck, Moe!” Lisa Toohey, a VMI parent, got involved as well by sharing on Facebook, “LOVED all the videos. Especially loved Moe’s ride into barracks on a motorcycle!”

For the day, the VMI Alumni Agencies emphasized raising unrestricted funds through the Foundation Fund and giving in support of cadet-athletes through the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund. “Unrestricted money is

extremely valuable to VMI,” said Maconi, “because the Institute can use it wherever it is most needed. In the just-concluded academic year, the Institute directed the unrestricted money where it could impact cadets the most. Dollars were spent on support for faculty and staff, expanding scholarship resources for cadets in need and providing program money for the Chaplain’s Office.

In the case of some sports, the NCAA allows a certain number of scholarship equivalencies; our current level of endowed scholarships do not yet reach that cap. So, giving to the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund helps close that gap.”

Although the day’s campaign would be conducted largely via email and social media, the VMI Alumni Association also organized events celebrating VMI, resulting in events held throughout the nation: Boston, Richmond, Norfolk, Florida, California and Denver. According to Thom Brashears ’95, chief operating officer of the VMI Alumni Association, nearly 20 percent of the Association’s chapters hosted an event related to the Day of Giving. “Although these were not fundraising events, it was great to see the energy from alumni across the country come together to celebrate VMI and salute the mission of the Institute to develop leaders of character for our nation,” he said.

On the day itself, donors began to come forward with gifts immediately. “That got us off to a great start, but giving really began to pick up later in the morning,” said John Wranek

VMI Alumni Review

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When Moe made it to Philadelphia, he celebrated by running up the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, just like Rocky Balboa in the film, “Rocky.”

Many donors chose to update their profile photos on Facebook with a special frame created for the Day of Giving encouraging others to show their support, as well.

III ’85, the VMI Foundation vice president for annual and reunion giving, and the leader of Day of Giving activities. “The planned emails, in which videos were embedded, began to go out, and the social media effort in support of the Day of Giving accelerated.”

At one point in the morning a donor was making – on average – a gift every 30 seconds.

A core staff of five people – Wranek; Goetz; Miller; Denise Koch, VMI Foundation assistant director of annual and reunion giving, who also played a major role in the planning and preparation; and Jennifer Palmer, information technology specialist – kept tabs on the campaign’s progress throughout the day. They also sent the day’s emails, executed the social media plan and kept an eye out for opportunities to celebrate donors’ generosity. One came when the $100,000 mark was passed. “That was an incredible moment,” Goetz recalled, “and we were able to immediately post a video on social media celebrating that achievement. There was some celebrating going on in Neikirk Hall, too.”

As the day went on, the VMI family kept up its giving, and as taps drew closer, it became obvious that the Day of Giving would finish strongly. “At 6 p.m. – that is, 18-and-a-half hours into the event – we figured that donors had been giving roughly $6,400 per hour. While the pace later in the day wasn’t as strong as it has been earlier, the giving remained strong and steady right up until the deadline,” said Wranek.

The results, including the challenge gift showed that, while donors gave to 95 funds, gifts to the Foundation Fund totaled $130,957 and $92,563 for the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund. Another great story, according to Wranek, was that 47 VMI alumni donors and 37 nonalumni donors made their first gift to VMI during the Day of Giving.

These alumni and friends provided more than $5,300 in gifts. Joining them were 219 people who had not given in more than five years; they gave almost $37,000.

“This was quite a day for VMI, and we are grateful for the hundreds of donors who came forward to support a great American institution and its faculty, staff, coaches and, especially, cadets,” Maconi concluded.

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Will Collier ’06 shared this photo of his children in their VMI colors on Instagram for the Day of Giving.

The Day of Giving event was tracked online both through the Alumni Agencies’ website and social media, allowing Institute alumni, friends and family to follow along as Moe made his way down the East Coast. He arrived back on post to the sound of cheering cadets, a metaphor for the help received by many cadets through generous giving by the VMI family.

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Staff News Page ’79 Becomes VMI Alumni Association President Until March 2009, the relationship between VMI and retired U.S. Navy Capt. Asa H. Page ’79, who became the new president of the VMI Alumni Association July 1, could be best described as somewhat distant. While he had kept up with many of his brother rats, he rarely returned to VMI until his 25th Reunion. His duty assignments, numerous overseas deployments as a career naval officer and juggling family responsibilities with two sons while married to a deploying Navy Nurse Corps officer prevented him from even attending events at his local chapter.

That all changed in 2008, when he received a brochure detailing the March 2009 Caribbean cruise hosted by the VMI Alumni Association.

Before he could discard the announcement, his wife, Karen, grabbed it and said, “Not so fast!”

She then offered the cruise as an early retirement gift to Page, who was due to retire from the Navy in September 2010. For him, it would be “a complete game changer,” he said. When the Pages boarded the cruise ship in Barbados, the welcome-aboard cocktail party – attended by more than 200 alumni and guests – was in full swing.

“Coming on board, Karen and I didn’t know a single soul. Within 10 minutes, both of us felt like we were at a family reunion. Everyone was like a brother rat; all of them were very warm, welcoming and genuine. I felt an incredibly renewed connection to the Institute.

All of the old ties to VMI, the barracks humor, the Old Corps stories. It all came back into focus over the next several days,” he recalled.

A conversation with Randy Blanks ’67, who would become the Association’s president in July 2009, in which Blanks challenged him “to get back into the game of supporting VMI,” prompted even more reflection.

“I dug down deep inside and considered what VMI had meant to me. I was from rather humble beginnings, and no one in my family had ever attended college. Thanks to a Virginia State Cadetship and other need-based scholarships, established through the generosity of alumni, I was able to attend VMI and achieve the goals I’d set for myself throughout my life,” Page said. He also considered the impact of what he had learned in the classroom and the leadership lessons taught in barracks on his

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30-year naval career. “I fell back on the life lessons I learned at VMI time after time during my years in the Navy,” Page said.

Back home, he threw himself into local alumni activities, and, later that year became the co-regional director of the Hampton Roads Region. In 2014, he was named the Association’s second vice president, a position that ultimately led to his new post as the president of the VMI Alumni Association. “All that constituted quite a surprise to a guy who really didn’t go back to the Institute or get engaged until my 25th Reunion,” Page stated.

Bringing him even closer to the Institute was the decision of his two sons – Brandon ’10 and Addison ’14 – to become cadets. “Both had seen the long-lasting relationships I had had with my brother rats, and they watched me re-engage with the Institute through my involvement with the VMI Alumni Association.

Looking back, there’s no doubt in my mind that those experiences influenced them to attend VMI,” Page said.

Asked about the role of the VMI Alumni Association, Page replied, “After graduation, the close bond that alumni have with VMI and their brother rats can sometimes fade. They become absorbed with starting their careers, getting situated and involved in new communities, and starting and raising a family. And

Asa Page ’79 pictured with his wife, Karen, and sons, Brandon Page ’10, right, and Addison Page ’14, left.

that’s OK, because there’s a time and a place for everything as we all strive for balance within our lives. However, every one of us eventually has an opportunity to re-engage with the Institute and with our fellow alumni. And when we do, the VMI Alumni Association must be ready to renew and enhance the bonds that tie alumni to the Institute and to each other.”

As Page sees it, the Association’s primary mission is alumni engagement, and that means many things, from helping alumni transition career paths to organizing reunions and chapter events. But for him, it’s a two-way street. “One way to give back to VMI is by the giving of our time and talent in support of the VMI Alumni Association’s staff. They are hard-working and professional, but they are few in number. So, they always appreciate alumni volunteers in support of reunions or chapter events.”

Since early 2017, the VMI Alumni Association, the VMI Keydet Club and the VMI Foundation have been re-evaluating how they accomplish their missions, to include how they are organized and staffed. This led to the hiring of Steve Maconi, Alumni Agencies chief executive officer, and establishing a stand-alone alumni communications office. The process has made the Agencies, in Page’s words, “more complimentary, cohesive and effective.”

“The reorganization has been going on for less than two years, but already we’ve seen significant improvements in staff synchronization and improved communications to the VMI family, as well as ever greater operational and administrative efficiencies,” said Page. “I’m looking forward to playing a role in realizing even more improvements in the Agencies’ work over the coming years.”

He then spoke to the work of the Alumni Association. “I want to continue to improve our alumni engagement efforts, particularly among more recent graduates of VMI. I feel strongly that we can facilitate and improve opportunities for our more senior and established alumni to engage with our younger alumni who are just starting out in life, particularly those who chose not to pursue a commission in the military and still may be undecided in their career choices.”

As Page sees it, the VMI Alumni Association is in an exceptional position to connect recent

VMI Alumni Review

Staff News graduates with senior alumni, who can help provide networking support, offer mentorship and otherwise help them establish lasting careers.

“The VMI experience made a lifelong impact on my values, my personal ethos and undoubtedly accelerated my career. In today’s Corps of Cadets, there are many young men and women who deserve the same kind of opportunities that a VMI education provided me. That is why, back in 2009, I decided to begin giving back to the Institute – and not just in the form of donations but also of my time as a volunteer. Call it payback, call it appreciation, but I have immensely enjoyed serving my fellow alumni and the Institute since then, and I’m genuinely looking forward to pursuing even greater alumni engagement during my tenure as President of the VMI Alumni Association.

I hope that all VMI alumni think back on the opportunities that a VMI education afforded them, and that they consider giving back to the Institute, to the Corps, and to their fellow alumni in accordance with their means in terms of time, talent and giving.”

Retired U.S. Navy Capt. Asa H. Page ’79 Since October 2010, retired U.S. Navy Capt. Asa H. Page has served as the comptroller for Naval Special Warfare Group Four in Virginia Beach, Virginia. In that position, he leads an organization responsible for providing the financial resources necessary for the training, equipping and deployment of Naval special warfare maritime units worldwide.

He served as a supply corps officer in the U.S. Navy from November 1980 until September 2010. During his career, he served as the supply officer for the USS Duncan (FFG-10) and the USS Saipan (LHA-2). He also served on board the USS Nimitz (CVN-68) and in numerous logistics and readiness billets ashore. In his last active duty assignment, he served as the director of contracts, fleet and industrial supply center, Norfolk, Virginia, supervising eight contracting activities across six states.

During his Navy career, he received the Legion of Merit (two awards), the Meritorious Service Medal (three awards) and two awards of both the Navy Commendation Medal and the Navy Achievement Medal.

A history major at VMI, he earned a Master of Science degree in Acquisition and Contract Management from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. He also attended the Business Resources Management Program at the University of Virginia’s Colgate Darden Graduate School of Business Administration, the Columbia Senior Executive Program at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business Administration, and the LOGTECH Advanced Program in Logistics and Technology at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill’s Kenan-Flagler Business School.

Anderson ’18 and Flynn ’18 Intern at the VMI Alumni Agencies Carlee Anderson ’18 served as a cadet intern for the VMI Foundation during the 2017-18 academic year. Her adviser, Maj. Steven Knepper, recommended the position to her based on her career interests in the business world. During her time with the VMI Foundation, Anderson worked on many tasks, including memorandums of understanding, monthly newsletters, the Thank a Giver Day letter and cadet-written letters to donors. She also assisted with the Institute Society Dinner in November 2017. About her time at the Foundation, Anderson stated, “I Anderson ’18 learned so much from the Foundation.

I never realized how large and strong the VMI alumni network is until I started interacting with them through this internship. I made so many great connections through this position; I know it will help me in all of my endeavors after graduation.”

Anderson reported directly to Christina Hatcher, VMI Foundation donor relations coordinator. Hatcher stated, “Carlee was a valuable asset to our team and worked hard all year behind the scenes to help with a multitude of projects for the Foundation. We will miss her and wish her all the best in the future.” Anderson matriculated from Vinton, Virginia. She received the David Wallenborn ’77 Athletic Scholarship and played women’s soccer all four years of her cadetship.

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Following graduation, she hopes to attend business school.

Jack Flynn ’18 heard about an opening at the VMI Alumni Association in May 2017 through the Office of Career Services. He worked for the Alumni Association throughout the summer and during the 2017-18 academic year. Flynn assisted with many Legacy Day, rat send-off and reunion projects, as well as worked on getting the job board running on the new Alumni Association website and updating it. Flynn explained, “While at the Alumni Association, I learned how to Flynn ’18 work well in an office environment and gained an understanding of the function and importance of the Alumni Agencies. I also learned just how powerful the VMI alumni network is.”

Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, said of Flynn, “Jack Flynn has been a tremendous addition to the Alumni Association over the last year. He came to us early last summer and has provided much needed assistance in all elements of what we do at the Alumni Association, from supporting rat send-offs to consolidating and managing multitudes of data. He will be greatly missed in the office.”

Flynn matriculated from Herndon, Virginia, and plans to pursue employment opportunities with the federal government or state department.

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Staff News

New VMI Foundation Trustees Recently, the VMI Foundation welcomed four new members to its board of trustees. Drawn from three decades – and including one of VMI’s early female graduates – they have widely diverse experiences that reflect the preparation a VMI education gives graduates for all sorts of careers. These experiences also have prepared them to be engaged and effective in their work for the VMI Guiterman ’04 Foundation.

A native of Gainesville, Florida, Bree Adams Guiterman ’04 can trace her VMI roots back to Isaac Holcomb Adams Jr., Class of 1881. A biology major, she was on the dean’s list all four years as a cadet. She was a corporal, a color sergeant and the regimental S-1 captain, as well as a member of the cadre for three years. She participated in VMI Theater, was a member of the English Society and received a varsity letter for swimming.

After VMI, she served as an officer in the U.S. Navy. Her first assignment was as the strike officer on the USS Cowpens (CG 63) from 2004-06. For the next two years, she was the navigator on the USS Underwood (FFG 36) and, during that tour, deployed for seven months in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

From 2008-10, Guiterman served on the staff of the deputy chief of naval operations for operations, plans and strategy at the Pentagon. While there, she was involved in relief coordination efforts for the 2010 Haiti earthquake, counterpiracy operations and 2010 Deep Water Horizon oil spill cleanup in the Gulf of Mexico. After completing this tour in fall 2010, she transitioned to the Navy Reserve. There, she has served in a variety of posts and deployed to Japan in 2011. Starting in November 2012, she served seven months on active duty on the staff of U.S. Naval Forces Southern Command/4th Fleet. In December 2016, she took command of 2nd Platoon, Company B, Coastal Riverine Squadron 10, based in Atlanta, Georgia, and currently holds that position.

From 2014-15, she was a resident student at the Marine Corps University’s Command and Staff College and earned a master’s degree in military studies and her joint professional military education phase 1. Her decorations include two awards of the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal and five awards of the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal, as well as the Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Humanitarian Service Medal.

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Immediately after leaving active duty, Guiterman entered the civilian sector and worked for Boston Scientific for two years as a production supervisor. In that role, she was in charge of three manufacturing lines that produced components for cardiac pacemakers. After her time at the Marine Corps University, she entered the real estate industry. She is now is the vice president of Associates Realty Services, Inc. in Gainesville, Florida, and will transition to becoming its president in January 2019.

Guiterman lives in Gainesville with her husband, Justin; son, Isaac; and daughter, Nora Jane.

Originally from Dornsife, Pennsylvania, and a distinguished graduate of VMI, Kimber L. Latsha ’77 earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history. Excelling academically, he received the Second Jackson-Hope Medal at the end of his 1st Class year. He was also a distinguished military graduate and received several ROTC awards. In his 3rd and 2nd Class years, he was a corporal and sergeant, Latsha ’77 respectively, and during his 1st Class year, he was the S-1 for 2nd Battalion. He was the president of his class and wrestled at the NCAA level all four years at VMI. He was the co-captain of the wrestling team as a 2nd and 1st Class cadet.

Latsha attended the University of Pittsburgh Law School, and after graduation, he served in the U.S. Army Judge Advocate General’s Corps from 1981-84 and received the Meritorious Service Medal for his service. After active duty, Latsha served for five years in the U.S. Army Reserve.

In private practice, Latsha has been a national leader in the field of health care law and has been recognized as one of the most accomplished attorneys in the field by the prestigious publication, The Best Lawyers in America. He is currently an attorney with and managing partner of Latsha Davis & McKenna, P.C., and works out of the firm’s Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, office.

His professional and civic service has been considerable. He has been involved with the Harrisburg Christian School and the Evangelical Free Church of Hershey as well as the American Health Lawyers Association and the LeadingAge Legal Committee.

His service to VMI and the VMI Alumni Agencies includes being one of the leaders of the effort to establish the Central Keystone Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association. He served as one of the chairmen of the Class of 1977 25th Reunion

VMI Alumni Review

Staff News

Committee, which raised more than $7.7 million in gifts and commitments. From 2009-17, Latsha was a member of the VMI Board of Visitors. While on the board, he was a member of numerous committees – including the External Relations and Cadet/Military Affairs Committees – and served on the Academic Affairs Committee and the Appeals Committee all eight years on the BOV. Latsha was the chairman of the latter committee from 2012-17, and under his leadership, the committee reviewed and reformed the Honor Court’s standard operating procedures. He also advised the Superintendent’s Representatives to the Honor Court and acted as a mentor to members of the Honor Court.

In 2012, the BOV recognized Latsha’s many contributions to its work by selecting him as a member of its Executive Committee and one of its vice presidents. He served in those roles for the remainder of his time on the BOV. He served from July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018, as an alternate member.

His brother, Kirk, is a 1979 graduate of the Institute. Latsha and his wife, Deborah, have three children and six grandchildren and reside in Middletown, Pennsylvania.

Sterling T. Sweeney ’96 matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and graduated with distinction from VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business. He was a member of the crosscountry team, marathon team and the Cadet Investment Group. In summer 1995, he participated in the Virginia Program at Oxford, a six-week school held at St. Anne’s College, Oxford University, U.K. Sweeney ’96 Since 1996, Sweeney has been employed by the C.J. Thomas Company, Inc., an independently owned and operated insurance agency headquartered in Saint Louis, Missouri, that manages a variety of fields to include construction, development and real estate. Sweeney began his career as an account executive, became a vice president in 2008 and a director in 2013, and now runs the company’s office in Richmond, which he established in 2001.

Sweeney has been a deacon at West End Presbyterian Church in Hopewell, Virginia, since 2006. He has served on the board and the executive committee of Veritas School in Richmond and currently coaches the school’s girls’ basketball and girls’ varsity soccer teams. He and his wife, Karen, have been married since 1996 and have three children, including a son whom Sweeney hopes will attend VMI. Charles L. “Lane” Toomey ’74 matriculated from Cary, North Carolina, and graduated with distinction from VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. He

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then began a 26-year military career in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. From 1974-88, he served in the 82nd Airborne Division, the 3rd Infantry (Mechanized) Division and 3rd Armored Division in West Germany. He also earned a master’s degree in civil engineering from North Carolina State University. Following graduate school, he served in Saudi Arabia as the assistant area engineer for a $1.24 Toomey ’74 billion construction project that built a new military academy for the Saudi Arabian army. From 1988-90, he studied at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas: First at the Army’s Command and General Staff College and then at the School of Advanced Military Studies, where he earned a Master of Military Arts and Sciences degree.

Assigned afterward to the G-3 plans section in the XVIII Airborne Corps headquarters at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, he was among the first group of soldiers from XVIII Airborne Corps to deploy to Saudi Arabia in response to Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990. For the next seven months, he helped plan the Corps’ activities in Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm.

In 1992, he became the deputy commander of the 20th Engineer Brigade (Airborne) at Fort Bragg, which was the first unit to deploy to South Florida in the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew.

From 1992-94, he served on the U.S. Army staff in the Pentagon.

In 1996, Toomey returned to Fort Bragg to serve first as chief of current operations, XVIII Airborne Corps G3, and then as director of plans, mobilization and training. He retired from active duty in 2000 with the rank of lieutenant colonel. His numerous decorations include two awards of the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star.

He currently works as a civilian on the staff of the XVIII Airborne Corps. His duty involves implementing Army force structure changes. During 2003 fighting in Iraq, he was a military analyst for one radio and two television stations. In 2004, he published “The XVIII Airborne Corps in Desert Storm: From Planning to Victory.” He maintains his interest and currency in civil engineering and is an active registered professional engineer in North Carolina.

Toomey has worked in New Cadet Recruiting efforts and has been active in the Cape Fear Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association. From 2005-11, he was a member of the Alumni Association Board of Directors and was its liaison to the Board of Visitors Military Committee from 2006-07. He is married to the former Karin Ann Lerch. Together, the couple supports a scholarship at Ohio University – Karin’s alma mater – for young women in sciences.

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CLASS NOTES

1935

Richard H. Knight Jr. ’70

was thrilled by all of the attention he received.

Consider this: Jim is the only man still standing from the 1930s. He entered the Corps in 1931 – 87 years ago. President Hoover was in the White House, and Babe Ruth was calling his shot in Wrigley Field. From what I have been able to determine, Jim is the first Keydet to enjoy his 104th birthday. That is quite a record.

Jim is very appreciative to the alumni, the cadets, the staff and every member of the VMI family.

And so am I. Until next time, here is wishing the very best to you and yours.

Dick Knight ’70

(Editor’s Note: Before going to press, we learned the sad news of the death of Jim Sherman May 21, 2018. Please see page 199 for an article about Sherman, who recently became the oldest alumnus of VMI.)

1939

Frank Parker III ’64 Greetings from the VMI Class of 1935.

Jim Sherman celebrated his 104th birthday March 31, 2018. It was quite an occasion.

For weeks, Jim received a steady stream of birthday cards and well-wishers. My BR, Diehl Jones ’70, hearing that Jim was in the neighborhood, The temporal Class of 1939 is no stopped by and introduced himself and more. With the passing of Ira Saxe, to presented a copy of the Nov. 11, 1939, Satthe best of my knowledge, 1939 has no urday Evening Post to Jim. (Try finding a more earthly representatives. At SRC nice copy of this issue on eBay.) Thom in that great beyond when Regimental Brashears ’95, chief operating officer of Cadet Capt. Hastings commands, “Rethe Alumni Association, traveled down port,” the response will come back up and paid his respects. the formation from company commandBirthday cards arrived from near and ers Cadet Capts. Echols, Riddleberger, far. My class launched a campaign, and Mosley, Baldwin, Booker and Strickler the Class of ’70 was heard from on Jim’s to battalion commanders Cadet Capts. birthday.

Chiles and Bond, “All present.”

Susan Worsham, the wife of Tuck WorWhat an amazing body of men. The sham ’67, called for contact info. After I ’39 Bomb contains some 156 members shared Jim’s address with her, the conof the class. Unfortunately, in my 10versation quickly turned to Tuck’s “star plus years as class agent, I have only turn” in J.M. Hall the day he introduced personally met a few and corresponded my class to the RDC. What a scary guy. with others. The experience has left me And now, decades later, we know he was a amazed at all they did and regretting not great guy then and a great guy now. meeting many more.

I heard from Eddie Arnold’s boys, who Most served during World War II, conveyed their very best to Jim on his Class of 1935: Jim Sherman celebrated his 104th birthday March 31, 2018. many in Korea and a few, such as Howbirthday. Readers may recall that Eddie ard Overton Golladay, also in Vietnam. yielded his senior status to Jim about two Brother Rats Charles Castro Arms, years ago. Eddie and his eldest, Dr. Tom Raymond Cecil Brittingham Jr., BerArnold, rendered valuable assistance to nard Pitzer Carter Jr., William Winston this class scribe over the years.

Coleman, Joseph Henry Fleming III, I received a very special email from CaFrederick Allen Hippy, William Perdet William P. Jackson ’21. Cadet Jackson ham Kevan Jr., Jackson Sterling Litwanted to send greetings to Jim, and he trell, Robert Williamson Nix III, Frank promised to enlist the participation of his Moorman Parker Jr., William FrederBRs. I couldn’t help but be touched by this ick Topham, George Major White and gesture. Cadet Jackson is 51 years junior to John David Wilson gave the ultimate me (a relatively “young” guy) and 86 years sacrifice for their country. Others, such junior to Jim. Now, that is what makes us as Col. Henry Joseph Cronin, died VMI. while on active duty.

I heard from many outstanding cadets Here are a few recollections of the and alumni, and it gave me great pleasure Class of 1935: Diehl Jones ’70 presented Jim Sherman BRs. I’m sure it is incomplete but will to forward their fraternal greetings to Jim. with a copy of the Nov. 11, 1939, Saturday Evening Post. give a sense of who the BRs were and Ian Sherman, Jim’s son, wrote that Jim 68

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes what they as a class accomplished. Harman Paul Bigler, long time ’39 class agent and my mentor, was with the OSS in China spying on the Japanese and a career engineer. Col. Alexander Henderson Morrison, great-grandson of Gen. Francis H. Smith, founder of the economics department at VMI and counselor for the sons of ’39 while they attended the Institute. Eldon Halsey Hill, U.S. Army Cavalry, served in North Africa and Italy and was a career general insurance agent. Ira Nelson Saxe, a career at NASA from Project Mercury to the Space Shuttle. Joseph Lynn Savage, judge in Veterans Affairs. Cy Fraser, executive with DuPont. Charlie Nelson, banker. Jack Peebles, businessman. Omar Lee Brayton, cotton farmer. William Henry Cox, physician. Lawrence Grant Mathews, dentist.

Edmund Jackson Tice, VMI alumni secretary.

Maj. Gen. Richard Logan Irby served in World War II, Korea and Vietnam and was VMI superintendent from 1971-81. Col. John William Chiles, B-17 pilot who carried Gen. MacArthur from Mindanao to Australia. Col. Nelson Whitney Toby, who participated in the invasions of North Africa, Sicily and Normandy, severely wounded at the Normandy breakout, and wagon master of the Sesquicentennial Wagon Train across the U.S. in 1976. Col. Edward B. Williams, blue water sailor. Ilbert de Lacy Brayshaw, engineer, builder and pilot.

Many played important roles in the life of the Institute while at VMI, which are recorded in the Bomb. After graduation, the following were recognized for their athletic accomplishments and were charter members of the VMI Sports Hall of Fame: William Murrell Echols, Thomas Woodrow Gray, William Allen Irving, Vendel Paul Kovar, Richard Donald Strickler and Andrew Joseph Trzeciak.

These are just some of the BRs I have been able to correspond with or have been provided information on by family members, friends or other BRs. I can only imagine the myriad stories, experiences and accomplishments all of the other BRs must have had.

Over these years, I have been supported by many wives and family members, especially Roberta Bigler, Mary Nance, Jo Morrison, Libby Chiles, Nancy Vaughan, Virginia Bernstein, Lisa Tracy and Jennifer Platt, who have provided me much information and inspiration.

It can be truly said that the Class of 1939 was “heard from” over the last almost 80 years

2018-Issue 3

throughout this country and the world.

On behalf of the Class of ’39, I want to thank the staffs of the Alumni Association and Alumni Review who have made our keeping in touch possible. They have played an important and often unrecognized role in the lives of our class and the Institute.

It has been my privilege and honor to be ’39’s class agent. I will miss hearing their stories and opinions on current issues. VMI could not find a better representation for its ideals of honor, duty and country. They will be missed but not forgotten.

Raise a glass to the brother rats of ’39; it matters not if beer, whiskey or wine.

No salute is more deserved; no class is more revered.

1941

Stuart Seaton Jr. ’73

Greetings from the three surviving brother rats of the VMI Class of 1941. In the last Alumni Review, it was noted that all three are now on the “10 Most Senior VMI Alumni” list, with Col. Robert C. Maling holding the second position.

Col. Charles “Chuck” Abbitt, who resides in Richardson, Texas, told me he isn’t bragging but turned 98 years old May 25. He stated he is in pretty good shape, still drives a bit and, if needed, can call on his son who also lives in Richardson.

Col. Abbitt shared a story about how, while at VMI, he and several brother rats would grab a taxi Sunday afternoons and visit Randolph Macon Women’s College. He said quite often they would return late and have to enter their rooms from behind barracks. Some things never change at VMI! Col. Robert C. Maling, who resides in San Antonio, Texas, was recently visited by his son and my brother rat, Bob Maling ’73, and is reported in good health. During his visit, Bob presented his father with a new artillery red walker and, as Bob stated, “Dad now feels he is back in fighting shape.” At the conclusion of his visit, they shared their traditional cocktail and toasted both VMI ’41 and ’73. Rah Virginia Mil! Jack N. Williams, who resides in Hot Springs, Virginia, stated that he stays busy taking care of normal daily chores like running to the mailbox

Class of 1941: Col. Robert C. Maling, who resides in San Antonio, Texas, was recently visited by his son, Bob Maling ’73. and cutting his lawn, and when things quiet down, likes to pick up a good book and spend time reading. Mr. Williams spent his working career as a pharmacist in Hot Springs for 59-and-a-half years, and when computers arrived on the scene, he decided to go ahead and retire. He is in good health and stays active among his community.

Respectfully submitted, Stuart M. Seaton Jr. ’73

1942

Harry Siebert

Dear Brother Rats, Back in January, I got a short letter from Charlie Miller stating, “I quit as class agent, and I name you as my replacement.” The Alumni Agencies verified it, so I will do my best to carry on. Needless to say, we all thank you, Charlie, for your many years of service which you performed as class agent in exemplary fashion.

Good job and well done!

Before getting to the news, I want to delve into the history of our class. I believe it was Sept.

5, 1938, some 220 young men matriculated at VMI. It was a shocking experience to enter the

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Class Notes

Class of 1942: On Harry Siebert’s 98th birthday, Thomas Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, visited Harry and brought birthday wishes and gifts from VMI.

Miller’s beloved wife, Mary Easterly. My condolences to you, Charlie. Also, with deep regret, I received a call from Jimmy Leech ’78, son of Brother Rat Brig. Gen. Lloyd Leech, to give the news of Lloyd’s death March 25, 2018.

Lloyd served with distinction in the U.S. Army.

I remember him so well at our 25th Reunion, June 9-11, 1967. Some of our brother rats attended. At that time, Lloyd was a colonel and was serving as commandant of cadets. He and his wife, Ginny, resided at the commandant’s home on the Parade Ground. They most graciously hosted our group for coffee and continental breakfast and a bloody mary party at their home. It was the highlight of our reunion remembered by all of us. Lloyd had a terrific military record; we can be proud of his service.

In January, I was honored by a visit from Thomas Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer. He had called and suggested a visit during the week of Jan. 21.

Much to my surprise, he telephoned me saying he had just landed at the nearby Orlando Airport early on the 25th, my 98th birthday. What a birthday it was, having the Institute sending Thomas all the way down to Florida. I was truly elated to be honored in this fashion. Adding to the occasion, Thomas presented me with a birthday proclamation and a beautiful throw as shown in the picture. Thank you, Thomas; you are a great representative of the spirit of VMI. Bob Goodman has contacted me via phone with interesting conversation about his life and family in Texas. He and his three daughters and their spouses recently enjoyed a cruise out of Galveston, visiting various ports in the Caribbean. He promises to show photos soon.

Fred Love lives in Delray Beach, about three hours south of us. Jody and I had the good fortune of visiting with him and family on his 96th birthday. Fred is the youngster of our class. He recently had a short hospital stay but sure looked “fit as a fiddle.” Hang in there, Fred.

Last but not least, John R. Cavedo ’64, class agent for his class, was found to live in nearby Ormond Beach, Florida, some 30 minutes away.

He and his dear wife, Sherrel, visited with us, and we had a great talk about VMI. Our conversation dwelled on the duties of class agents and he was most helpful in schooling me on my new job.

Thank you, John.

Send me news, brother rats – thumbs-up!

Harry

1943

Jeffrey G. Smith

barracks, which most of us had never seen. Some I have the sad duty to report that my “cousin,” turned around, returning home. Some never reGordon Smith, died Feb. 22, 2018. I have borturned after Christmas leave. Others dropped rowed much of what follows from several sources. out during the year. At the end of four years, Gordon grew up in Illinois until his father we had about 120 cadets to finish up. sent him to Riverside Military Academy in World War II had been the major event to afGainesville, Georgia, for high school. His math fect our lives. Maj. Gen. Charles E. Kilbourne teacher was a VMI graduate and a major influ’894 was superintendent, and the United States ence on Gordon’s attendance at VMI. Gordon War Department was in dire need of troops, had a very successful career as the president of especially junior officers. Our graduation was Watson-Smith, a wholesale distributor of fine scheduled for June 15. Army services schools’ carpeting located in Chicago’s Merchandise next courses were to start May 25. Kilbourne Mart. He was proud to have been a member of announced that graduation would be moved VMI’s 1943 state championship team. up to May 15, giving us 10 days leave, He was a longtime generous supporter and for us to report on active duty May of the Keydet Club. In 2006, he created 25. The shocker was no final exams. the 1943 State Championship EndowAll with passing grades would gradument Scholarship within the Keydet ate! I don’t believe this ever happened Club. In addition, he has been a longagain in the history of the Institute. So, time generous supporter of the Institute off we went to school – infantry to Fort Society. Gordon was a longtime resiBenning, Georgia; field artillery to Fort dent of Mundelein, Illinois.

Sill, Oklahoma; and cavalry to Fort RiMy son, who is the dean of the facley, Kansas. We then moved on to duty ulty at VMI, reported that Brother Rat assignments. During the course of the Vince Thomas’ grandson, Cabell ’18, war, 16 of our brother rats died on the graduated May 16, 2018. Jeff Jr. kept fields of honor. That adds up to more Class of 1942: Harry Siebert and his wife traveled to Delray a close watch over Cabell and reported than 10 percent of our class!

Beach, Florida, to wish Fred Love a happy 96th birthday. Fred that Vince would have been so proud of Now, on to current news. It is my is only 96, the youngest brother rat of the class. his grandson’s superior performance. sad duty to report the death of Charlie

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1943: Floyd Gottwald and Settle Frank attended the 75th Reunion in April. Gottwald was pictured in front of Preston Library, and Frank was pictured in J.M. Hall with Cabell Thomas ’18, Jeff Guild ’94 and John Samitt.

Cabell majored in economics and business and will go to work for one of the leading commercial real estate firms in the nation, with “duty” in Norfolk, Virginia.

It is with great regret that I report the death of Shirley VanLandingham, wife of our class’ first captain. I received an email from Johnny’s son (VMI 1968) with the sad news. He remarked that both of his parents loved VMI, and that his father loved VMI only a little less than he loved his church and his golf game.

I am sorry that my notes are so minuscule, but you, my dear brother rats, are largely to blame. No news from you means no new news to report.

I do so much hope and pray that I do not have to rely upon the sad news for what is new news.

At this stage in our lives, we need to keep reminding ourselves to thank the good Lord for the many years he has already given us.

I look forward to the next three months when, God willing, I will send you a new edition of your class notes.

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1944

Tom L. Peyton Jr.

Reminder: the 75th Reunion for our class will take place in Lexington Monday and Tuesday, April 15-16, 2019.

Dick Niess submitted an unusual photograph, appearing in this issue, showing the remaining members of our class who returned to the Institute in summer 1943, shortly following the completion of our 2nd Class year. The majority of these classmates were enrolled in the pre-med program. Those shown underwent an accelerated schedule, and 16 graduated Feb. 5, 1944. In this group, Bob Marston commanded Company A and was awarded the First Honor of the Jackson-Hope Medal. Dick commanded Company B and was awarded the Second

Honor. The photo shows the summer uniform prescribed by the Institute at that time.

I recently received a letter from Earl Watson III advising that his mother, Roberta Davis Watson, died Nov. 16, 2017. She was born and raised on Chincoteague Island, Virginia, and was married to Brother Rat Earl Watson Jr. for 58 years. Her home for the past 50 years had been in Lansdale, Pennsylvania. She and her husband, Earl Jr., leave their son, Earl III, and daughter Linda Parks; four grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren to cherish fond memories. The message left for her survivors: “Play the hand you’re dealt, and be kind to one another.”

We recently learned of the passing of Mary Blanton Easterly, 94, who died in Richmond March 20, 2018. She was the daughter of Dr. Wyndham Bolling Blanton and Natalie McFaden Blanton. Mary was married to late Brother Rat Harry Watkey Easterly Jr., who died June 16, 2005, and later to Charles Bruce Miller ’42 of Richmond, who survives her.

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Class Notes arrived in Lexington about 1:30 p.m.

Mary attended Converse ColApril 23 and checked in at the Wynlege and completed the award of a Bachelor of Arts degree at Wesdham. I walked into the lobby using thampton College, followed by a a cane and used it throughout the master’s degree in education at the reunion.

Soon, we saw Jim Warrington. He Richmond Professional Institute. drove his Honda CRV from Bailey’s She taught art at Saint Catherine’s Crossroads (near Arlington NaSchool for 13 years. Aside from teaching, her career included real estional Cemetery) to Lexington. He said it was a six hour trip. It seemed tate agent, retail manager of clothing Class of 1944: Company B in summer 1943. Cadets wore army tan uni- to me that Jim could not walk any sales and manager of a towel and forms to match uniforms worn by Army Specialized Training Program bath shop. Mary had a wide interest trainees, who shared VMI barracks during World War II. VMI cadets better than I could, but he never used a cane. He managed to get in writing, gardening, interior design returned to regular gray uniforms with white ducks in the fall. in and out of the shuttle vehicles and antiques. As the wife of our and do all of the reunion walking without assisclass president, she played an active role in suptance. He never asked for help of any kind. Jim porting Harry in his leadership responsibilities is still an active Episcopal priest and his attire to maintain close ties among his alumni classWilliam A. Eliason mates in the VMI tradition. Many of our class included a Roman collar. recalled that she and Harry graciously opened In September 2017, Jim came into the office of Col. John Brodie (Hon.), VMI Band and Glee their beautiful home on the James River to a Club director, with a request. Warrington wanted mini reunion of our class, where many of her to know if the band could play the song “Lili Martalents were on impressive display. She and Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the lene” during the reunion.

Harry had five children, four of whom surJim noted that it was his favorite song from vive: Dr. Harry Watkey Easterly III ’67, Frank Class of 1946.

World War II and went on to tell Brodie some Blanton Easterly ’69, Tighe Easterly Antrim of his personal history. In 1943, while attending and Natalie McFaden Easterly. She is also VMI, Jim was drafted and served as an infantrysurvived by Charles Miller’s two children, 13 Lionel T. Wolford man in Europe. He returned home from World grandchildren and 18 great-grandchildren. A War II in 1943, graduated from VMI and went on memorial service was held at St. Stephen’s Episto serve as a military chaplain in Vietnam. Jim excopal Church, Richmond, with burial in Hollyplained further that “Lili Marlene” had also been wood Cemetery. a favorite song of many of Jim’s Army buddies, In April, I spent a couple of days in the RaleighBrother Rats, this past February, the Ramsey who have died.

Durham, North Carolina, area and was able to have an enjoyable visit with John Irby. John lives family celebrated George Ramsey’s 90th birthBrodie wrote out the chord chart for “Lili Marin a very nice retirement community and has the day in Lynchburg, Virginia. Congratulations to lene” based on a 1940 Marlene Dietrich recordwatchful support of his son, two daughters and a George, Harriet and the entire, very numerous ing and gave it to the band the night before the friendly neighbor. I found, not surprisingly, that Ramsey clan.

April 2018 reunion. Although four members In March, the much, much smaller Wolford of the Class of 1948B made it to the reunion, he and I are dealing with most of the same aging issues that our other brother rats most likely have family celebrated Lionel Wolford’s 90th birthJim was the only one able to walk into barracks to contend with. We find that a positive outlook day in Monroe, Louisiana. To my knowledge, the for Old Yells. As he entered barracks, the band goes a long way in coping with the potholes that only younger ’48B was my old roommate, Robert played “Lili Marlene.” Jim cried and sang along Duke. Bob died several years ago, so the surviving with the song. we encounter along our path in later life.

25 or so ’48Bs are all 90 or older.

George Ramsey and his passenger, Doug HamBecause of my rheumatoid arthritis problem, ner, drove from Lynchburg and also checked into I was quite doubtful about attending the ’48B the Wyndham. Harriet Ramsey was not able to 70th Reunion in Lexington April 24. Phone calls attend because of bursitis issues. George looked William Quarles from George Ramsey and Doug Hamner plus a absolutely great, just as he looked five years ago. promise of help from my daughter, Ann Wolford, He looked like he belonged to a younger class. turned me positive, so I decided to go, even though George reported that he played in a golf tourI would have to walk with a cane. nament the previous Saturday. Doug’s son, Hal Ann drove from Colorado and arrived in Hamner ’84, drove from Richmond and was of Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Monroe April 18. She helped me pack and load great assistance to Doug throughout the reunion. my Toyota RAV4. We left Monroe April 21 and Doug managed quite well using a walker. Later, Class of 1945.

1946

1948B

1945

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes we took the shuttle to the all-class dinner.

At cocktails, I met a lady who is the granddaughter of Lt. Gen. C.E. Kilbourne ’894, former VMI superintendent. We discussed the general’s “throwing the book at me” (her words) for one of my transgressions. Our group of six sat at the ’48B table and were joined by Meade King ’85, a friend of Hal Hamner ’84. Meade recently assumed the role of chief operating officer of the VMI Keydet Club.

We had a great time but were warned that the next day’s parade might be canceled if predicated rainfall happened. Indeed, light rain was falling as we returned to the Wyndham. We agreed to meet for breakfast at 8 a.m. We woke up to a rainy April 24, but we met for breakfast and each had a story to tell.

Doug recalled that after he returned to VMI

from military service, he roomed near the northwest corner of what is now Old Barracks. That section of barracks was built on the site of an old dump which still housed a colony of rats. One day, a large rodent entered the room, and Doug and his roommates took action to rid themselves of the uninvited visitor. Doug grabbed his bayonet from the gun rack, cornered the rat behind the radiator and killed it. Maj. Walter Greenwood ’40 was walking nearby and heard the scuffle. He excitedly entered the room and asked what caused the ruckus. In an attempt to calm the major down, Doug exclaimed, “It’s OK, major; I just killed a rat with my bayonet.” Doug still remembers the look of horror on the major’s face who thought that Doug had murdered a new cadet.

I added that Maj. Greenwood was serving as an adviser (Korean Military Advisory Group) to

the South Korean Army when the North Koreans attacked in June 1950. We met briefly in Japan in early 1951 when I was going to Korea and he was on his way home. Maj. Greenwood is mentioned favorably and frequently by Marguerite Higgins in her book, “War in Korea.”

Jim Warrington mentioned that his cat, Prince, was staying in his office while he was on the reunion trip.

The next reunion event was a visit to the Marshall Museum. I skipped this, but the others attended and enjoyed the tour. I dressed in rain gear and caught the 11:30 shuttle, which picked up the rest of the ’48B group and dropped us at Crozet Hall. I had not been in the mess hall since 1947 but had been forewarned that Bogus, the former head waiter, would not be there. We were told to sit at a table with a white tablecloth and that

Class of 1948: Present at the reunion were H. Douglas Hamner Jr., George P. Ramsey Jr., James M. Warrington and Dr. Lionel T. Wolford.

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Class Notes

Class of 1948B: Doug Hamner, Jim Warrington, George Ramsey and Lionel Wolford in Crozet Hall.

Class of 1948B: George Ramsey’s 90th birthday celebration.

Class of 1948B: The class flanked by Ann Wolford and Hal Hamner.

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food was self-service. All of the empty tables were quite a distance from the self-service, but George found a convenient table with a black tablecloth.

We settled down there. Some colonel told us that this was the commandant’s table and suggested that we move. We gave him a Bronx cheer and enjoyed our excellent meal.

A short time later, it was announced that the parade was canceled, but the Old Yell for each class would take place near the sentinel box in Old Barracks. We took the shuttle back to the Wyndham, changed clothes for the class picture and took another shuttle to J.M. Hall. After posing for the class picture, we took a vote on attending the Old Yell ceremony. Since it was raining, we decided not to go. We settled down to wait for the bar and dinner.

After a few minutes, we noticed that Jim Warrington was missing. Ann and Hal went to look for him and were gone for quite some time. Eventually, they showed up with Jim. He had noticed that the rain had stopped and walked to Washington Arch. He was in time for the Old Yell ceremony but did not climb the sentinel box. Thom Brashears ’95 did and led the Old Yell for ’48B. Thanks, Thom! After a short wait, we attended the ’48B class dinner, along with guest speaker Col. Keith Gibson ’77, VMI Museum System executive director, and his lovely wife, Pat. We were joined by a team of five cadets who ate with us.

They were talkative and informative and livened up the dinner a lot. They were also good listeners.

On the shuttle back to the Wyndham, we were entertained by a terrific rendition of the old World War II song, “Lili Marlene,” sung in German by Jim Warrington. Way to go, Jim! The next morning, George, Doug, Ann and I had breakfast together. Hal had returned to Richmond. Presumably, Jim left early to care for Prince. We told more stories.

Doug recalled that, as a returning veteran, he could request permission to marry before graduation. He made the request, received permission and married Betty Joe during his last semester. He further remembers having to submit a written request each weekend to visit his wife.

It was a great reunion! (Many thanks to Ann for getting me there and for helping me throughout the reunion.) It seems to me that Hal was equally helpful to Doug; furthermore, we have Hal to thank for the pictures. It was a great group of six.

After trying several times without success a year or so ago, I recently made contact with Dick

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Ayres from Alexandria, Louisiana. I believe that I last saw Dick Jan. 2, 1945, on the train from New Orleans to Lynchburg returning from our first Christmas leave. Like many, he had to leave VMI for wartime service after one year. After service, Dick went to Georgia Tech and earned a degree in industrial engineering. He started his own business and is still running it. We set up a meeting but had to postpone.

I also talked to my 3rd Class year roommate, Billy Guin. His wife, Nancy, died in January, so he was quite busy with many details. He was considering going to the reunion, but obviously did not. We missed you, Billy!

I received a call from Charles Brown, my second semester rat year roommate. Charles was doing very well. He reported that his Marine major grandson-in-law had completed his language studies and will be assigned to the American Embassy in Beijing soon. Charles was the best roommate I ever had. Three or four of us may get together for a mini reunion in the near future.

Lou Castellano reported that his first wife had very serious health issues and that he would be unable to attend the 70th Reunion. We missed you, Lou! George Ramsey contacted Sonny Laine. He found Sonny in poor health. An infection in his foot had spread. The infected area required bandages which have to be changed twice daily by nurses. Hope you get well soon, Sonny!! We missed you at the reunion.

George Ramsey also contacted Al Loth who in turn contacted me. Al reported that he could not attend the 70th Reunion but that he did represent ’48B at Chi Mills’ funeral in Richmond.

Al and Chi were roommates their 1st Class year in 1948. If I remember correctly, Al was on the top of the list of ’48B corporals named after the completion of our rat year. But, like the majority of our class, Al was called to military duty. Many, including Al, returned to VMI after completing military service. These returning veterans were a year or so behind the 25 or so who were named cadet officers in 1946 and went on to graduate in 1947.

Paul Applin and, eventually, George Ramsey were named cadet battalion commanders, but the cadet regimental commander was Jim Morrison ’45. Jim did a great job and later became a personal friend, but he was not ’48B. One year later, ’48B did get a first captain when Al Loth was named

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cadet regimental commander. With pride, I have read his name on the wall in Jackson Arch. I was glad to hear from you, Al. Please keep in touch!

1949A

James Harrington

Harrison Whitten tried to call Bill May. Here’s his report: “Bill May’s number has been disconnected. I will try to locate him. I was 91 in February – still playing tennis and boating. I don’t know how long this will last. My grandchildren are running the business, and everybody is happy. I am so sorry that our class numbers are diminishing.”

This, from Herb Johnston: “Hope this is not too late to be useful; at least you will know that Jeanne and I are still around. These last few weeks have really been hectic. I think I told you that Jeanne had another fall about six weeks ago. She was in the hospital about a week and a rehab center for another four weeks. She is home now, and with some furniture moving, we have adjusted to living on the first floor of our house. We bring all of our meals in. We talked to our daughter in California yesterday. She had just seen the movie about Justice Ginsberg. Chris said they did a nice job of telling the VMI Supreme Court story and that it is really worth seeing. News for older people that wear hearing aids. I was just involved in getting a loop installed in the main areas of our church; it seats about 1,000. I explored the system several years ago and installed a loop in our family room.

It really makes hearing so much better. Europe has been the major pusher of this technology. The last item of interest is our dog. He fell yesterday. He is 16, and we are trying hard to get him better. We hope Ann is doing well and that you get lots of news from the rest of the class.”

Herb, there is not much “rest of the class,” and the news is just as sparse.

Here’s Allen Penniman’s: “As usual, Joanie and I are moving along at a gentle pace at this time in our lives. But even as we are calm and sitting around enjoying life, there is a lot going on around us. By this, I mean our family and what is happening is not calm at all. Let me share just a few words of explanation of what is going on in

our wonderful family.

“First, we have a new great-granddaughter, Calder Grace Bourne, born to one of my granddaughters. This makes five great-grandchildren Joanie and I have. Also, we have a number of graduations, including Anne W. Boudreaux who is being graduated by Louisiana State University and will enter LSU law school on a dean’s scholarship. Anne has received honors all the way through school, and I am thinking she will make a wonderful lawyer. Laurie McDuff, my first daughter, will receive a master’s degree at LSU for her work in social services. She is most accomplished and is a tremendous help to me as I plod through life.

Last but not least, we have a destination wedding scheduled for the 25th of this month. Mary Katherine Atkins is to be married to Matt Jorgensen, and it will be a wonderful occasion. If there is anything else going on, I haven’t heard about it yet.

“All of us have reached the age of living our lives through our children and their accomplishments.

This is a great blessing to me, and I can hardly keep up with the many activities and accomplishments that Joanie and my children have. As I was thinking about these notes, I received a call from Sarah Hussion, who lives in Portland and is the oldest of Joanie’s grandchildren. It never ceases, and this is a great blessing to me. As far as Joanie and I are concerned, we continue along enjoying good health and the accomplishments and great activities of our family.”

Lionel Wolford’s ’48B notes in the last Review brought back many reminiscences – some pleasant and some not so. I enjoyed reading them and wish that my eyesight and writing skills enabled me to emulate them. As with most of us, we’re on the downhill slope. The Harringtons will have to make some adjustments similar to Herb Johnston in that we’ll soon have to leave our loved home on our island and move into more convenient accommodations. I’ll let you know when and where.

This home has so much meaning to us; I was instrumental in developing Bald Head Island into the prime resort it now is, and we have been here for more than 30 years. I’ll be sad to leave. Our health conditions dictate a move.

With some research, I have located Bill May. He’s still at Brandermill Woods but has moved from his apartment into assisted living quarters.

After four attempts, I finally got through the administration network and spoke at some length with Bill. He’s somewhat incoherent but said he was healthy and doing a lot of exercise and

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Class Notes swimming but no longer driving, so he says he will miss the VMI football games. He’s proud of his family, including now two great-grandchildren.

He asked to be remembered to any VMI folks I encounter.

1949B Dan Smaw

In February, Teancy Outland died very suddenly, having given no sign that anything was wrong.

A funeral service was held Feb. 24, which was well attended. A reception was held following the service at the Norfolk Yacht and Country Club. I have talked with Grover a couple of times, and he is doing as well as can be expected. One interesting thing is that he is taking cooking lessons. Greg Nelson and Nux Enochs have been to visit him.

I have had a couple of calls from Buddy Marshall. He informed me that he is doing well, as are the Striblings. He also told me that Effie Stockton died.

I spoke to Izzy Maxwell the day after the Masters, and the last of her Masters guests had just departed. They had a good time during the tournament. I talked to her recently. She had a birthday party April 21 with about 60 people, including Nux Enochs. They had a great time.

I talked with Lon and Doris Walter. They are doing pretty well and enjoy where they are living with everything they need fairly close.

I talk to Ding and Nobbie Patton every so often.

Ding had pneumonia a while back but is over that and is in pretty good shape.

It would be a great help if you all would give me something to write about. As you can see from the above, I don’t get too much.

God Bless America, VMI and ’49B.

1950A

that Syd died at his home in Fairbanks. What a loss. To all of us who were privileged to know our “flying Eskimo,” as Dick Mandt so appropriately called him, Syd was the epitome of the term, “Prince of Men.” Harriet and Jennings Bunch are still doing well up in eastern Pennsylvania. Kenny Stagg is having treatments on one of his knees. Ralph Mooney has had a bout with a lung infection but is presently doing well.

Debra and I continue to enjoy our time together. She has a demanding schedule, which includes a full-time job, family, old friends and me. She has decided to retire at 65 instead of at 67, which will give her more time for family, old friends and me/us. Two years and two months until then. I continue to enjoy excellent health with one non-life-threatening exception. I have a mitral valve leakage, which needs be repaired in the near future. I have no symptoms other than a moderate shortness of breath upon exertion, which I’ve never had before I noticed it late last fall. I’ve been fighting Anthem for the past several months, as they consider the mitral clip technique still experimental. Major hospitals have been using the clip procedure for several years with a 99.9 percent success rate. A clinical trial is presently taking place comparing the clip procedure with a repair via open heart surgery. The study began in 2015 and is to be concluded this September. Interim reports in 2016 and 2017 have been very positive with a 99-plus percent success rate. After September, insurance companies will not have any peg to hang their hats on regarding the experimental designation. I can wait.

I apologize to our ladies for not being able to give a report on them in the notes this time.

All of the above plus spring duties here on “the hill” have taken all my time lately.

1950B

Joseph B. Kohen Jr.

Bill Moore

As I write these notes, I received word from Syd Stealey’s daughter, Catherine, informing me

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I heard from Jones Felvey, who hired a personal trainer and, after 10 months, went hiking in Provence, France, on a National Geographic tour. He stated, “What a difference getting in shape makes.” He also loves watching VMI

Class of 1950B: Alex Mitchell, pictured last year, recently suffered health issues.

After several months of rehab, he was able to move into an assisted living facility near the community where his wife, Nancy, lives.

Class of 1950B: Joseph Kohen had an apricot, mocha mousse and chocolate crumble cake baked for his 89th birthday. baseball on the computer.

I just returned May 1 from a cruise on the Danube River aboard the Crystal Mahler from Budapest to Vienna. I rode a bicycle through the vineyards of the Wachau Valley and visited the nearby special Mariellen apricot orchards and sampled their product. On my 89th birthday, I rode an e-bike on the man-made island across

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes months later, to the day, I played 27 holes. from Vienna where high-rise office buildings, In the last issue of the Review, the death of apartments and condominiums create a 21stSidney Hannah was reported. A telephone century vista. call from a close family friend of Sid’s in earOn Saturday, April 28, 2018, the families of twin sisters Betty Saunders and Gloria Berbly April provided the information on his meerich gathered in Charlottesville to celebrate morial service. It was scheduled for April 21 the twins’ 90th birthdays. The twins’ late in Clifton Forge, Virginia, Sid’s hometown. husbands were Sam and John, both from the Sam Scott, a native of Salem, Virginia, was Class of 1950B. Those present included Dain the area at the time of Sid’s memorial servid Saunders ’83, John Saunders ’09, Sam vice and attended it, so the Class of ’51 was Saunders ’78 and Jake Berberich ’76. well represented.

I received the following note from Nancy Frans Kasteel checked in from the Virginia Mitchell, Alex Mitchell’s wife, in response coast to say that he and Daphne are doing to a photo I took of him a year ago: “Alex well, being “busy practically every day with had his aortic valve replaced Nov. 20, and all boat, dog, book groups, Coast Guard Auxwent well. Unfortunately, on Thanksgiving Class of 1950B: Joseph Kohen atop a 57-story building iliary, sick friends, funerals, graduations, four days later, Alex had a stroke, followed on the Danube River with views of Vienna, Austria. etc.” They are planning a visit to the Nethby, as they said, a shower of strokes. After erlands to visit his family – “taking a plane the gauntlet was another.

He is pessimistic about five months in rehab, we have him in a very nice rather than swim!” assisted living place across from our community his attendance at the 70th because of his health As for me, I continue to enjoy good health; I so we can easily see him every day. I thank you problems, but in my reply to him, I told him we play golf a couple of times a week and drive localwere all in the same boat. for the picture and hope you will keep in touch.” ly but not for long distances. The family all lives He quoted statistics, which indicate that only within a 40-mile radius and remains attentive to seven alumni manage to make it to their 70th the old father, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Reunion. We can beat the statistics – all 55 of Jacob H. Wamsley II us! Unfortunately and sadly, in mid-April, Dick Cole, Bill’s roommate for three years, sent me an email telling us of Bill’s death April 12, 2018. James M. Mecredy Later, I found out that the cause of death was a stroke, suffered while he and his wife were on a This covers the period from Feb. 15, 2018, to trip. Although he graduated with the Class of ’50B, he considered himself a brother rat of the May 15, 2018.

Shortly after submitting the last class notes, I Class of ’51, as I do.

Spring has now arrived in Georgia, and it is The sad news continues – Sally Carstens, faithgot a welcome letter from Jim Close, who wrote time to turn in my class notes. I will start with from his and Alice’s winter home in Florida. He ful sister rat and wife of Carl (Bounce) Carstens, the good news. Andy Dickinson wrote that reminisced about the post-VMI career of Joe died March 2, 2018, after a lengthy illness. Our he and Bill Ruffin played a few rounds when Tom Howard, who entered medical school with condolences to you, Bounce. in Florida recently. All is well except the golf.

A note from Fred Watson reported that he Andy recalled: “Bill and I recalled that he was Jim at the University of Virginia but decided that a medical career was not for him, withdrew and and his wife have joined those of us who have nine and I was 10 on a 10-man golf team for was called up by the U.S. Air Force. He went to downsized; they now live in an apartment in Fort four years at VMI, and neither of us played in flight school and wound up flying B-25s. After Worth instead of a house in Weatherford. a match or ever saw a match; B.D. Mayo did Jack Ross celebrated his 91st in early April.

In five years, he returned to Norton, Virginia, to renot know our names, yet we both got a letter!”

I received a letter from Cadet Mark Peake organize and then operate his family’s business talking with him on that day, I learned that he no successfully. He retired and moved to Florida, longer drives but manages a walk each day. I also ’20, a history major from Lynchburg, thanking where he and his wife got reacquainted with learned that Marie was in the hospital at the time the Class of ’52. He is the current recipient of the Walter G. Robertson Jr. 1952 Memorial Jim and his wife. Jim reports that he and Alice of my call but did not get any details.

A note from Bounce Carstens in mid-April Scholarship. Mark wrote that he has four sibremain in good health. reported that he had back surgery and has not lings in separate Virginia colleges, so our supAbout the same time Bill Sacra reported in, probeen on the links for a while. When he gets port helps his parents and him immensely. The viding more reminisces about the trials and tribulations of being a “3rd Class rat.” Having to go to back, it is probable that Jim Enochs will want market value of the fund was $172,014 as of class with the same people who had just finned to double their bets. If it is any comfort for him, Dec. 31, 2017, and has $8,090 currently availhim out unmercifully was one example. Having I had a spinal fusion back in the l960s and was able for scholarships.

Dick Valack is alive and not kicking until after to return to a final exam in calculus shortly after told not to swing a golf club for six months. Six

1951

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1952

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Class Notes his knee replacement in April. Dick continues to meet Walt Ames, Cecil Welsh, Gary Pittman, Zeke Finney, Andy Dickinson and Bill Ruffin for breakfast every couple of months.

Betty Gladestone is managing to stay in her home in spite of physical limitation, which a chiropractor helps her maintain. She needs more help around the house, so she is going to stop putting it off. She is continuing to live in the home she and Jack had in Morehead City, North Carolina.

Chris Holland continues to be limited by an injury to his leg a couple of years ago. He uses a cane and takes a collapsible rocker with him so he can sit rather than stand. He no longer drives, and recently, Sugar fell and broke her wrist. In spite of these limitations, Chris continues to be upbeat. Chris says he feels good; he just has these limitations.

Charlie Coulbourn died peacefully Feb. 14, 2018. He is survived by his wife, Sigrid Rossner Coulbourn; brother, Thomas Edgar Coulbourn (wife, Mary Carpenter); daughters, Anna Kristina “Tina” Coulbourn Wood and Kathryn Marie Coulbourn Kerr (husband, Adam Kerr); and five grandchildren, Charlie and Anna Wood and Paul, Christina and Jonathon Kerr. After serving as an officer in the United States Army, Charlie earned a master’s degree in electrical engineering from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

A short time later, he moved to southern California to work in the aerospace industry. There, he met the love of his life, Sigrid Rossner. They were married at Neighborhood Church Aug. 28, 1961, and settled in Rolling Hills Estates.

While working at Aerospace, Charlie received a U.S. patent relating to waveguide lens antennas.

In 1982, he joined Los Angeles Scientific Instrument Company as a vice president and worked there until his retirement. Charlie had a passion for woodworking and building fine furniture.

He enjoyed spending time at the family home in Mammoth, hiking and listening to jazz, always surrounded by friends and family. One of his greatest pleasures was his daily walks along the Palos Verdes coastline with his buddies and his dog, Bailey.

Jim Martin remembered: “Charlie is and always will be the source of one of my fondest memories. We were in the officer’s club at Fort Lewis having an early evening beer when Charlie stood up and said, ‘I’ll be right back. You don’t buy beer, you just rent it.’”

Red Redman went to be with our Lord March 12. He had been in hospice. I called in February to learn he came down with a cold in January, which developed into pneumonia and heart and lung cancer. He was not expected to live. Harriet sent me a note announcing his death and included an obituary along with a

Class of 1952: Chuck Haley gave this wooden carving to his wife, Virginia, when they were dating in 1951. They recently saw similar carvings on “Antiques Roadshow.”

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copy of the funeral service. He was buried in a private service with full military honors.

I have called Stillman Chesson a number of times and phone is either busy or disconnects.

Stillman, if you have another number, let me know. (I tried 804-556-0603).

Ray Hart Jr. called me March 14 to report that his father, Ray Hart, died March 8.

I heard from Jim Miller. He and Pat are downsizing and moving into an apartment. They are both doing well with minor health problems and are going through the perils of downsizing.

I called Boyd Guttery in March, and he is still holding his own. He just had his 90th birthday.

Boyd never fully recovered from a fall in 2012 and needs a walker or a cane to get around.

Chuck Haley had hip surgery to repair a torn ligament March 22. He had a lot of trouble throwing off the effects of surgery anesthesia and post-op opiates. He was to be on a walker for three more weeks, and his patience was wearing a little thin. I had no idea of the degree of Chuck’s difficulty with the torn ligament. I am already praying for his complete recovery, and may the Lord provide the patience Chuck needs to finish recovering.

Virginia Haley wrote: “I am going to send you a photo as soon as I finish this email. I was watching the Antiques Roadshow from Portland, Oregon, last week, and a lady had a collection of Carter Hoffman wood carvings of Pacific Coast Conference mascots carved between 1949-52. The appraiser valued them at $300-$500 each and said he had carved many different college mascots during that period.

While Chuck and I were dating in 1951, he gave me a little VMI wood carving, which he said came from the men’s clothing store in Lexington. It is signed, ‘A Carter Hoffman Original.’ We are wondering if any other brother rats or wives may also have or had one. It’s hard to believe this little fellow may have value.

He is a little worse for the wear; his two shoe tips have been reattached with glue.”

George Hutter called to thank me for his birthday card. I had congratulated him on being the oldest one in the class. He is in fairly good health and is keeping that way by exercising every day. He sent a nice gift to VMI, and in appreciation he received a nice silk scarf and VMI tie. Just so you all know, a big gift has its rewards!

Stover Thomas called to thank me for his

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes birthday card. He celebrated his birthday a day early because the family could gather on a Sunday more easily than on a Monday. Stover says he is in good health considering that he is getting older and needs a cane to keep him from falling down. Stover roomed with Homer Ambrose ’51 and Russ McCarthy and continued rooming with Russ after Homer graduated. I am receiving thanks for birthday cards more often.

It seems the older we get, the more we appreciate birthdays. My birthday was two days before Stover’s, and I am pleasantly surprised to recognize that I am still around at age 90. I had an annual checkup recently, and the doctor couldn’t find anything to complain about except that I am not as young as I once was.

That is all for this time. Please continue to keep in touch so I will have something to say in future class notes.

Keep praying for our nation.

Jim

1953

William C. Noell Jr.

These class notes will summarize our great 65th Reunion, mainly for those that were not able to attend; thus you now can kind of be a part of it.

It started out with a social hour at our house from 4:30-6:30 Sunday, with about 50 wandering around our crowded home. The weather was good, so those who wanted to were able to sit out on the deck to visit. The committee, via Warren Koontz, furnished beer and wine, and we did light snacks and soft drinks.

There were many cars parking out front, so my neighbor decided to help out and became a very happy parking attendant for all, even helping some that need walking assistance. We then had dinner at the Bistro on Main at 7:00, which opened that Sunday for our class. From what I heard, all had very good meals, and the evening was very enjoyable. The restaurant of our 60th Reunion, Café Michel, which everyone really enjoyed, is now back over the mountain in Clifton Forge, where we ate to celebrate my 87th birthday. A few of us joined Will and

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Christina Allison next door after the dinner at Haywood’s, as Sunday is their jazz night.

On Monday morning, we had a North Post tour by bus by the baseball field, soccer practice and lacrosse fields and physical training/ climbing facilities on the ridge, and we ended up at the new state-of-the art pistol/rifle range.

A demonstration was put on by several cadets, and we had a very good briefing by the range staff. There was considerable interest shown by the ladies, as well as BRs. With the facilities being closed in, it was very loud, and thus ear covers were definitely required. From the range, the group went back to the hotel for a short rest, etc., and then on to Sigma Nu Headquarters, a block-and-a-half away, for a catered lunch by the Southern Inn on the Sigma Nu grounds. Those who have email received my summary on the history of Sigma Nu and VMI before the reunion. My son-in-law, Brad Beacham, is the national chief executive officer who organized this great program for our class.

After lunch, all were invited to tour the headquarters and VMI museum room and received a briefing on the history of Sigma Nu and VMI. The lunch and tour were enjoyed very much by those attending, and the weather was very good for dining under the tent. I do not have an accurate count, but 64 were signed up for this event. Those of you on the class email list received the group photo in these notes from Brad that afternoon.

Monday evening, dinner and cocktail hour were sponsored by the Alumni Association for the five senior classes having their reunion at this time. The event was held in Marshall Hall of the leadership building, where Gen. Peay ’62 gave us a very nice briefing on VMI today after the dinner.

Tuesday morning started off with our memorial service to our deceased BRs in Jackson Memorial Hall. This was organized by Ted Marani, and Ted and Parker Cross alternated reading off the names of our deceased brother rats. Reed Johnson tapped a bell after each group of names were read. I read a passage from the Episcopal prayer book. Col. John Brodie (Hon.), VMI band director, along with Don Matherson, played taps – John on the bugle and Don on his trombone. After the memorial service, we received a very good briefing from the new chaplain in the VMI theater; he did a lot of comparison of the Corps of today

as to when he was in the Corps, as a member of the Class of ’87. It was a very good briefing.

He also noted, lastly, what the VMI chaplain does for the Corps.

Next on the agenda was lunch, would you believe, in the VMI mess hall, at the same time as the Corps. It was a good lunch – cafeteria style – and even Judy thought it was very good. We finished lunch by getting ourselves ice cream cones. The organization now managing the mess hall took over in January. Even the cadets stated the food is so much better than it used to be – in fact, they like it. Of course, in our day, we ate family style and had waiters, and as I recall, we were never impressed with the quality. The afternoon was spent with a virtual tour at the VMI theater then an actual tour of the new state-of-the-art cadet training facility. It is quite impressive and makes the tracks we ran on as cadets look like they were dirt paths. The building itself is the largest on post, other than barracks. Due to rain Tuesday morning, we did not have a reunion parade on the Parade Ground. In fact, we had to have our class picture taken in J.M. Hall, since at the time, there was still a light drizzle. However, when it was time to enter barracks for the Old Yells, each of the five classes were able to march from J.M. Hall through Jackson Arch and into the courtyard with the band playing on the stoop above the arch. Each class had representatives climb the sentinel box, as normal, and lead the Old Yell. For us, it was Parker Cross, Ted Marini and your class agent holding roommate Pete Cox’s reunion flag, which Judy and I have updated for the last two reunions.

Tuesday evening was our ’53 banquet at the Lexington Golf and Country Club, beginning with a social hour and a dinner of surf and turf – crabcake and filet mignon. Wine was served as part of the meal, but the bar continued to be open for those who wanted other libations. We had two cadets provide music – piano and flute – and Col. Bill Wanovich ’87, commandant, gave of an excellent talk on VMI today. At the banquet, we had five graduating grandsons of our BRs and five widows – Anne Goddard, Susan Moncrief, Ellen Hofhieimer, Betty Woodward and Lucy Mosie – as class guests. We also had several other invited cadets as guests.

I posted enlarged sign-in/matriculation sheets for when we became the brother rat Class of 1953 for all to view. Table flowers of red, white

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Class of 1953: Row 1: J. Wesley Gray Jr., William H. Allison, J. Parker Cross Jr., Theodore F. Mariani, John F.Lisella and William H. Atwill. Row 2: Paul E. Fortin, Frank E. Spencer Jr., Isaac Norris Kantor, John B. Wilson, Robert A. Cheatham, Charles M. Williams, Terry H. Davis Jr., Warren W. Koontz Jr. and William C. Noell. Row 3: Wilbur S. Hinman, Donald M. Matheson, Robert S. Miller, Frank T. Wootten Jr., Fred F. Hauser Jr., John J. Lund, Walter M. Sanders III, John D. Evans Jr., J.C. Sutherland, Jack W. Trigg Jr., Reed Johnson and Floyd L. Moore. Not pictured but present were Ronald D. Haywood, John L. Gilbert and Eustace Bellinger Jr. Caption provided by Bill Noell, class agent.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and yellow were ordered and delivered by my wife, Judy, which really looked good on the tables. Of course, Parker Cross started the festivities with a brief talk then introduced our speaker. Afterward, Parker said a few more words, and as your class agent, I ended the evening with some comments; however, no one said they would like to take over the class agent task up through our 70th. At last count, we had 84 or 86 at our banquet dinner. Of course, for the whole reunion, we had some family members attending who came to help our BRs get around or drive them to Lexington. We really appreciate this effort made by family members for our BRs. In regard to distance, Bill Hinman came the farthest – California.

In closing this summary, we do regret that many of you were not able to join us for the reunion but wanted to let you know that it was a very good reunion, and the committee, appointed by Parker, did an excellent job on it. Warren Koontz, our chairman, made several trips to Lexington to work out details of the reunion, and as class agent and being in Lexington, I handled a lot of the coordination. For those of you who were able to return, we appreciate very much your participation in the 65th and certainly hope you really enjoyed your visit back at the Institute and found the reunion very informative.

Class of 1953: Ted Mariano and Bill Noell prepared the class for Old Yells.

Class of 1953: Bill Noell, Ted Mariano, Parker Cross and Will Allison in barracks during the April 21, 2018, reunion.

Class of 1953: The class had lunch and a tour at Sigma Nu Fraternity National Headquarters during the 65th Reunion.

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Regretfully, just before our reunion in early April, we lost our BR William Horne down in Florida. His obituary appears in the Taps section of this Review.

On a lighter side, Jack Trigg and Elizabeth flew over for the Masters but were home Sunday for the finals.

Charles Williams is still excelling in track events at our old age. He was awarded the National Championship Award at the USA Track and Field National Masters Indoor Championships, held in Landover, Maryland, in February. He received a gold medal for the 85-89 age group 1,500-meter race walk and also for the 4x200-meter relay team.

Lastly, Judy and I and family were able to spend time on Mother’s Day with chaplain Charles Caudill and his wife, Jan, who are now retired in Florida. Charles married Judy and me in J.M. Hall 27 years ago and married our daughter, Jennifer, and her husband, Brad, outside at Maple Hall, as well as performed the services for Judy’s mother in West Virginia. It was very nice getting back together with our old VMI chaplain.

Judy and I attended the New Market parade and graduation with Henry Atwill ’18 and all of his family. Roommate Bill and Agnes stayed with us.

Since I was questioned during the reunion about many statistics on our class,

Class of 1953: The 65th Reunion flag.

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Class Notes What a primo experience!

I decided to provide a few to you here Tom Kane sent a fascinating story in my so-called trivia section of these that shows the VMI character from notes. two standpoints. In the 1951 step-off First off, we matriculated 258 in (the great step-off), he was posted September 1949 and graduated 158 on guard duty at Washington Arch. in June four years later (according to There was a very large and unruly the alumni roster). However, 15 BRs crowd there, ignoring a cadet who had graduated a year later. There were 46 been hurt. Tom could not get anyone who did not complete the rat year and to help him. Tom took the initiative 35 who completed only the rat year. to leave his post to take the injured There were six who completed just two guy to the infirmary. While he was years; two transferred to Washington gone, certain of the superintendent’s and Lee University and one went on artifacts were damaged or trashed. to the U.S. Military Academy at West The inevitable happened: Tom was Point. There were 15 who were with called to the superintendent’s office us only three years, but graduated with to explain why he had deserted his us. Therefore, 177 started the 3rd Class post. He explained and was forgiven year, but the Class of ’53 contained 218 – at least to an extent. The meeting BRs. (I do not count anyone that did was calm, but Tom was given penalty not complete the rat year.) If you look Class of 1953: Signatures from the day the class matriculated tours. Nothing more draconian. Tom at our graduation bulletin, it showed into the Institute. had owned up (back then when we 160 graduating, but 11 of those were did that), and the superintendent was not enraged the BRs of ’52. Two did not graduate until 1954, (Those winters in the valley – bitterly unpleasor overly punitive. and one was dismissed by the Honor Court. ant in my memory, except when I was a kid.)

I was on guard duty that night, as well, but in Therefore, this would leave us with 146 actually Sue checked around in January, and it seemed the courtyard by Jackson Arch. Perhaps I wrote graduating in June 1953 and adding our 15 that she and Al would be unable to get away; it was graduated the following year, we come up with just too late to book passage anywhere. Cunard about this before. Anyway, on the fourth stoop, someone had filled a trash basket with newspa161 graduating members of the Class of 1953 – had nothing, but American Airlines had just 62 percent of our matriculated class of 258. Our started a cruise company, and they found a spepers and then poured water on them until they current mailing list totals 123 – 79 BRs and 44 cial deal. For the price of a standard stateroom were well-soaked. Seeing me down below, whowidows, with three BRs not having addresses, and with payment right then, they were able ever it was dumped the entire sodden load of etc. As for email, we only have 56 addresses for to book the absolute best guest stateroom on a newspapers down on my head. Guess my neck BRs and 12 for widows. For our deceased BRs, Celebrity cruise ship. Sue didn’t wait to talk to Al; could have been broken, but just before that load the total is now 114 – including 12 who just comshe just did it. To Florida after all! They reached hit me, I sensed it and moved a bit over to my right. It hit me on the shoulder like a ton of – pleted the rat year. The above is about as accurate Port Everglades Feb. 17. Consider these amenias I can come up with without spending hours in ties: Shore excursions in Nassau and Bahamas, well, wet newspapers. My rifle went flying along Institute records. For a completely different trivPuerto Rico, St. Thomas and Charlotte Amalie; with my hat, and I was instantly flattened. No inia, I assume all of you have noted that our class a penthouse suite; a personal butler; a private resjury. What a night. Fires set, property destroyed, number, 53, is marked on the lower front corner taurant for people staying in suites (50); exclusive gates at Jackson Arch closed; I can still see it. of all 18-wheelers.

National news. club – Michael’s Lounge; complimentary beverAl Mattox also wrote about his experience our age package and unlimited internet; separate living and dining area with Baby Grand piano; and rat year when he was sent to the room of Rufus a private veranda with Jacuzzi and also a Jacuzzi Lazell ’51 and Taylor Hay ’51 by his dyke next J.M. Perry Archer in the master bath. The suite was 1,680 square door. Rufe was Schubmehl’s dyke, and Taylor feet, bath 389 square feet and deck 129 square was mine. They put Al in a brace, Schub was hung on a coat hook and I was draped head first feet. And consider the services of the butler: Delivered and ordered breakfast; same-day laundry out of one of the windows. As Al says, “Ah, services; personal in-suite cocktail party with those were the days.” Nowadays, I suppose caAl and Sue Mattox enjoyed a very special bartender; provided daily snacks; constantly dets might hire plaintiffs’ attorneys. Can you cruise in February. They have a place in Florida resupplied fridge, mixers, water and soft drinks; even imagine what that might be like now? but had rented it out, so they were “looking forMore of the interesting “tales of Killer Tilinvitations to special tours; parties with captain ward” to another frigid Virginia winter in Weyand crew; computer problem assistance; fresh ler.” I may have, in fact I have, told you that ers Cave and the miserable cold, as Sue put it. fruit and flowers daily; and reservations setup. I believe Jack would have been a very good

1954

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1954: Al and Sue Mattox left the Virginia winter in favor of a Caribbean cruise in February and stayed in a penthouse suite. Sue is pictured with the butler, whose services were included with the room. Their cruise stopped in the Bahamas, St. Thomas and Puerto Rico.

Class of 1954: Charlie, Perry Archer’s first great-grandson.

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trial attorney; I’ve hired many, and were age and conditions right, I would offer Jack a job in my firm. Once, when he was stationed with the U.S. Army Signal Corps and was out on a date with a pretty fraulein, he had a bit of a verbal set-to with the local German police. (“Far across the deep blue water lived an old German’s daughter ...”) He was driving with the fraulein in his black ’55 Chevy after dark.

They came to a stop at a construction area with a one-lane road that allowed two-way traffic, controlled by a large rotating disc divided into red (stop) and green (go) lights. When green reached the top of the disc, traffic facing it could proceed. The road for Jack was downhill. The disc turned green and Jack proceeded. Coming up the hill at the same time was a police car with two officers inside. They stopped Jack, and the police told Jack in German to turn down his high-beam headlights.

The Killer replied, “My lights are not on high beam!” Whereupon his date whispered, “Stop it! You can’t – you don’t – argue with the police!” (Sie konnen nicht mit police argumentieren!) Jack, ignoring her, told the police officers to back up, and he would show them that the lights were not on high beam! Muttering things like, “Dummkopf,” the officers backed up in the direction from which they’d come and waited, facing Jack’s car. Jack put his foot on the button on the floor (you all remember that button). The brights came on and flooded the scene like bright-as-day Klieg lights. The constabulary apologized, wished Jack and his fraulein a guten abend, and sent them on their way. Tiller wins again!

I had a similar experience with German intransigence in 1954 in Bayreuth. A buddy and I

were there for the Wagner Festspiele in July and were returning from supper to our rooms in a very heavy rainstorm. We had no umbrellas or hats. There was a red traffic light facing us with a lighted signal telling pedestrians not to cross this very narrow street yet. Across from us on the opposite curb was an elderly couple, shielded by a large umbrella. We started to step into the street. Instantly the old woman across from us shouted, ‘Halt! Du kannst nicht kruezen!’

(To heck with that. We hurried on anyway to their great and vociferous displeasure.)

Ollie Hux sent pictures of many grandchildren and said, in effect, who cannot love grandchildren? True enough. (Some grandparents are more assiduous, of course.) At any rate, Providence recently made me a greatgrandfather; the wee bairn is named Charlie.

I have seen many photos of newborns over the decades, but none as curious as Charlie and his facial expressions very soon after birth.

Put your own captions to them, but in one he looks to me as if he’s ready for a fight, and in the other like a lawyer cross-examining a witness. I am from West Virginia (lots of fights) and also a trial lawyer (questioned many witnesses), and I was struck by these. Chip off the old block? (By the way, Ollie has asked: How does Johnny Knapp manage to stay so durn young-looking!?)

Lastly, please watch carefully at service stations and at ATM machines. Thieves are placing pinpoint cameras and card-reading devices on these places, and folks are being robbed regularly. The attached devices look as if they belong as part of the fuel-delivering pump and the ATM. My daughter and one of my friends here were hit recently.

I ask all again and as usual to send me any

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Class Notes news that you would like to have included in the Alumni Review. The best reason is that we get to share with each other. Secondarily, it makes my job even more interesting. Please send news, stories, VMI memories, accomplishments, stories from your days in military service, professional memories and experiences.

Thanks, ’til next time.

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Read Hanmer

Bob Bancroft said, “I’m not complaining, but these are the facts: I have a radiology oncologist, a rheumatologist, a hematologist, a nephrologist, a cardiologist, a gastroenterologist, a urologist, an orthopedic surgeon and a primary care physician.

They all have the same middle name – Vampire – because they all send me for blood draws. Consequently, I’m anemic and damn near out of blood.

I wonder why? But I am still vertical and appreciative of the great skill, care and knowledge which is available and from which I am benefiting. Question: Can you trust such young physicians?” Bob went on to say, “I enjoy college basketball and remember being amazed at the speed and agility and skill of the athletes. Now, I marvel at the ability of a cheerleader to jump and land on his/her feet.

What does that tell you?” Bob, it tells me that I, too, am facing down a similar list of professionals.

Joe Brenner, in a quick and welcomed note, said, “I know you (and we old Colonials in Connecticut surely do) appreciate the seasonable weather. No news from here; just keeping up with denuclearization and denunciation of world figures – our own especially. See elsewhere Frank Brooke’s note on the Brooke family and longevity in general. Let’s all give thanks for having made it this far along on the journey. All the best, Joe.” Barney Lawless opined, “Not much here, as we are busy being the financial support of the medical profession of northern Virginia. We are awaiting the arrival of our first great-grandson due any day, so we keep the car gassed up and pointed toward North Carolina. Watch for the announcement of provisional appointment in the next issue of the Alumni Review.”

Bob Bowden observed that the benefits of aging seem to be coming at a regular rate. “I have just

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had the third hip replacement (I will never be let on an airplane again). Jane is using a walker, so we are not venturing far from home. I hope we will be able to get to Sandbridge by mid-June to check the sand and the ocean. I guess we are now at that level of maturity when survival is an accomplishment, so here we are.”

Leon Cock wrote: “I see where Jim Sherman ’35 of the Class of 1935 turned 104 March 31, 2018, and is now VMI’s oldest living alumnus. I hope one of you BRs lives for 20 more years and takes up the flag. Our class is ‘only’ 20 years behind Sherman’s 1935 group. Happy Mother’s Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day. Have a nice balance of 2018, anyhow.”

In a companion note, Frank Brooke wrote, “The article about Jim Sherman ’35 in the current Alumni Review also mentions that George Doswell Brooke ’900 was the previous oldest alumnus living to be almost 104. He was my uncle. There are several other Brookes in this family, including my father, Class of 1908; my brother, Ralston Brooke ’50B, who is 90; my grandfather, Thomas Vaden Brooke ’864, who fought in the Civil War; and my cousin, Thomas ’37, George Brooke’s son. Unfortunately, there are no current Brookes, but hopefully one or two in future generations. Anyway, 104 years is still a long ways away.”

Ray Collins said he was saddened to read Dave Woolwine’s obituary in the recent Alumni Review. Dave was a great friend, and one of VMI’s war heroes. Ray continued: “I do not belong to a senior exercise class, but I do get on the bedroom floor three times a week to do back exercises, and then Kim helps me off the floor. We did a cruise to Aruba in March. I had to increase my meds because of the salty diet. Otherwise, it was a fine trip. We did a lot of slow dancing, too! P.S.: I enjoy your class notes.” Thanks for the comment, Ray. Q.T. Barrett: “Unfortunately I must report that my wife, Jeanne, who is Louis Rossie’s sister, is suffering from dementia. We are still in our home but not sure for how long. I have some professional help along with my three adult children. I still have my boat in Reedville, Virginia, where our Brother Rat Casey Jones used to live before abandoning me and moving to Fredericksburg. I fish when the bay is right, and if not, I play golf. The years have been very good to us, and like they said 62 years ago, for better or worse. Hope this helps you out a little bit in your review input.” Thank you, Q.T., for letting us know about Jeanne. Our thoughts are with you.

Barney Lawless informed me of the death of Bill Wainwright May 4. Barney noted that Bill was his roommate during our rat year. Barney said, “I’ll miss the friendship and constant ragging of one absolutely swell guy.” Bob Bowden observed, “The long gray line is getting shorter.”

Also, I was recently informed of the death of Eugene “Fergie” Ferguson, of Chester, Virginia.

Gene died Tuesday, April 17, 2018. He was 85.

Born and raised in Richmond, Virginia, he was the son of the late Francis and Evelyn James Ferguson. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Frances Sherry Ferguson; son, Scott Ferguson of Midlothian; daughter, Sherry Baum and her husband, Geoff, of Louisville, Colorado; and grandchildren, Megan and Brandon Ferguson of Midlothian and Lindsay and Amy Baum of Denver, Colorado. His daughter, Susan Christian Ferguson, preceded him in death. Gene graduated from Thomas Jefferson High School in 1951.

He went on to earn a degree in civil engineering from Virginia Military Institute and was a proud member of the Class of 1955. He was an avid fan of VMI and attended many of the school’s events throughout his life. Gene went on to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps. After his service, he operated several ready-mix concrete companies and later began his own concrete inspection business. An avid builder of sailboats, he loved spending time on his 45-foot ketch, Esprit, which he proudly built himself, on the Chesapeake Bay. Gene also devoted many hours volunteering for the Lions Club, Masons and the Jaycees.

Lee Graves McKnight, a retired Bell Laboratories physicist, died April 1, 2018, at his home in the Collington Lifecare Community in Mitchelleville, Maryland. He was 84. He had suffered from late-onset multiple sclerosis complicated by congestive heart failure. Lee was born in Washington, D.C., in 1933 and grew up in Bethesda, Maryland. Lee attended schools in Maryland and Washington, D.C., graduating from Wilson High School in 1951. He graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1955 with a degree in chemistry and served in the U.S. Army as a first lieutenant. In 1955 he married Deborah Winship Heers at St. John’s Church in Bethesda. He received his Ph.D. in chemistry from the University of Michigan in 1961. Lee was awarded a NATO Science Fellowship to conduct postdoctoral research in physics at University College London. Returning to the United States, he accepted a position in the research department of AT&T Bell Laboratories

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Stevens, who has been slowed down after the in Murray Hill, New Jersey, in 1964. His 35-year Museum at Solomon’s Island, Maryland. stroke he had. I got to see a spring training Please keep the emails, letters and especially piccareer at Bell Laboratories began with research season game between the Mets and Senators on ion-molecule reactions and went on to process tures coming. in Port St. Lucie. In spite of a cold and having Read Hanmer control of industrial processes using computers. to drive 2,800 miles over the month in Florida, Lee wrote two patents, and in 1983, he received I thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity to visit the Distinguished Member of Technical Staff and see things I normally don’t. award from Bell Laboratories. After his retirement Richard M. Smith Marshall Mundy called to tell me I made a in 1999, he served as a volunteer for the Madison mistake about the reason for his retirement Historical Society and the Morristown National from his law practice. He said it had nothing Historical Park. In 2007, he moved from New Jerto do with his lack of memory, as I had related sey to Collington Lifecare Community. Lee was what I was told by another BR. He went on to delighted by history, music, bridge, genealogy and tell me he was sending a picture of him and I had the pleasure to spend a month in Florhis family. He is survived by his wife of 63 years, Monika with Betty and Wes Foster on vacaDeborah Heers McKnight, and two sons and their ida during March and enjoyed missing the snows and northeastern storms. Again I ention in the Barbados. He also is sending inforfamilies.

Finally, an obituary on Bill Poffenbarger: Arthur joyed the company of several ’56 BRs and their mation about a book written by his daughter, Lee “Bill” Poffenbarger, M.D., 84, of Charlotte families. I introduced Spider and Anne Allison Liza, called, “Code Girls,” about how a group Hall, Maryland, formerly of Charleston, died to two of my friends with whom I stayed while of women broke the Japanese code during World War II. She has been on a tour across peacefully surrounded by his family on Easter in Melbourne. I got to play two rounds of golf Sunday, April 1, 2018. Bill attended college at the with Paul Gronroos, and we dined, as usual, the country speaking for the publisher about Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia. at Pineapple Joe’s Bar and Grill. Neither of us the book’s background. She spoke at VMI Feb. He graduated in 1955 with a Bachelor of Science can carry a tune, so we didn’t join in for the 5, and the book has sold more than 90,000 copdegree in biology and was commissioned as a karaoke. ies. Marshall and Wes have both had falls in I next spent four days with Scottie Boland the past, so he cautions all brother rats to not second lieutenant in the United States Army field artillery. Bill served in the U.S. Army Reserve as an and his family in Winter Haven doing some fall. Marshall was recognized by the Roanoke artillery officer while he attended medical school fishing and drinking some of the best Scotch Bar Association May 1, 2014, for a lifetime at the University of Maryland. After graduation, available, since his daughter is an authority of achievements by presenting him its highest Bill was promoted to the rank of captain in the U.S. on all spirits. Scottie is an actor, having made honor, the Frank W. “Bo” Rogers Jr. Award, Army Medical Corps and began serving on active several movies for Hollywood. He even was after 52 years of practice. He has served on the duty during the Vietnam War as a neurologist at hired to oversee one of Tiger Woods’ parties. VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors We talked with his old VMI roommate, Jimmy Fort Hood, Texas, and Fort Bragg, North Caroand the Keydet Club Board of Governors and is a past president of the Roanoke lina. Subsequently, he began his private Chapter of the VMI Alumni Associapractice as a neurologist in Charleston. tion. Marshall has established a scholDuring the time of his practice, he was arship fund at VMI for deserving caalso a professor of neurology at West dets – the Mundy Family Scholarship Virginia University Medical School, and – in memory of his father and brother, taught neurology medical residents at who were also VMI alumni.

WVU’s campuses in Morgantown and A group of BRs and wives and Charleston. He took care of many of friends got together at Brio’s Restauhis patients at Charleston Area Medical rant in Richmond recently for a nice Center, Charleston General Division. luncheon. There were 16, including While working at CAMC, he served the Farthings, Gottwalds, Hesleps, as the chairman for the department of Manns, Nelsons, Belshas, Motsy neurology, served one year as the chief Foster, Elsie Tolley, Jim Dillard and of staff and was nominated as a memfriend Gay Serick, and Honey Rector ber of CAMC’s board of trustees. Bill and I. Betty did a fine job of arranging and his wife, Patty, moved to Charlotte everything. I even got a cake and ice Hall, Maryland, after his retirement in cream for my birthday. We discussed a 1995. Bill was an avid fisherman and outdoorsman and also enjoyed a num- Class of 1956: Dick Smith played golf with alumni from the possible mini reunion that Bill Nelson ber of activities including bicycling, Classes of ’14, ’15 and ’16 during a golf tournament for former agreed to chair with help from others.

VMI baseball players at the Lexington Golf & Country Club I had the pleasure of having Dillard snow skiing, hunting, woodworking May 12, 2018. and Gay spend the evening at my and volunteering at the Calvert Marine

1956

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Class Notes summer as VMI concludes another home the night before, after a visit to successful year in its long history of relatives in North Carolina. the preparation of young men and The following weekend, I planned women for service to the commonto spend two days in Lexington attending the second golf tournament wealth and our nation. consisting of former baseball players We write these notes in the days of at VMI. I look forward to seeing two finals week: The annual New Market baseball games against Wofford ColCeremony, change of command palege, since we are ranked fifth in the rade, commissioning ceremonies and Southern Conference at present. graduation – the culmination of the Paul Gronroos wrote that he is goarduous four-year cadetship. ing to Del Mar, California, soon to The Institute and the Class of 1957 see five grandkids and two daughters. continue to press ahead. The Institute has never looked or been better. If you One granddaughter graduates from have not visited post in recent times, seventh grade and her brother from Class of 1956: In Barbados in February 2018 were, from left, we encourage you to treat yourselves. high school. He will be attending The Wes and Betty Foster and Monika and Marshall Mundy.

If you plan a visit, let us arrange a University of Southern California in guide and on-post transportation for the business program. Paul is enjoyyou. It’s quite a tour. ing the frustrations caused by PresiWe have reported individually the dent Trump, whom he knew when losses of Brother Rats Joe Gilbert, living in New York. He hopes our new Tom Vaughan and Charles Jenkins governor will do a good job of runby email. Their obituaries will be ning the affairs in Virginia. published again in the Taps section of I received another of the very Alumni Review in a future issue. We thoughtful birthday cards for my 84th all have so many good memories of from Bob Brickner. He continues these guys. They will not be forgotten to promote healthy living habits by to the last man standing. participating in the 75-plus-year-old Allow us to comment that each of marathons which usually find him in these brother rats had interesting, first place. He expects to enter about Class of 1956: Betty Mann organized a luncheon at Brio Tuscan long and productive lives, each expeseven such events this year. He com- Grille in Richmond, Virginia, May 8, 2018. Present were Fred Farrienced the highs and lows of life’s mented that 2017 was a good year for thing, Jim Mann, Doug Gottwald, Dick Smith, Don Heslep, Bill Nelson, Jim Dillard, Les Belsha, Mary Jo Farthing, Betty Mann, equivalent Rat Line many times over, his investments, and it will be helpful Betsy Gottwald, Else Tolley, Honey Rector, Jo Heslep, Motsy for the sizable donation to VMI from Foster, Melissa Nelson and Gay Selick. and each left a legacy of success. Life his Robert Love Brickner Charitable is a celebration, and we lift our hands Foundation to be managed by his successor in salute to our brother rats who have crossed trustee that will never end. over the river and rest in the shade of the trees.

Larry Miller wrote that he and Betty planned As George Sydnor pointed out, Joe Gilbert to attend the opening of the a restaurant called George Sydnor Jr. played a very significant part in the design of the Polynesian May 23 in the Broadway theater our class ring, having served as committee district of Manhattan owned by their youngest Howard Lawrence chairman. Joe Spivey remembered Joe as one son, Brian. His dad says that “he was born and of the funniest of our brother rats – especially schooled to be a celebrity bartender.” his impersonation of Jack Palance, the notoriBob Morecock and Bettyjo will be in Lexingous movie gunslinger. We had a nice note from ton in mid-August for a gathering of the GrigsJoe’s wife, Toby, thanking us for remembering by clan. His mother was a Grigsby, and they Joe. As many of us may remember, Joe attendplan to visit VMI and see the physical changes ed VMI for two years but failed to return for our 2nd Class year in fall 1955. Does anyone that have taken place.

That’s all there is, folks, for this issue. Hope know why? It is a well-kept secret? Perhaps Remember: “All the news that is fit to print.” Toby can tell us. you are all holding together as best possible Our news depends on your input. and hugging one another as often as possible!

Dick Collier and Kirk Hubbard attended A beautiful spring has finally returned to the Tom Vaughan’s memorial service in WilliamsYours in the spirit, Shenandoah Valley and is fast rushing into burg and talked with other old VMI friends in Dick

1957

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Now, on the brighter side ... no attendance: Maj. Gen. Joe Gray more “doom and gloom.” ’58; Rusty Loth ’59; Lt. Col. Bill Pat and Howard Lawrence enWray ’63; and Tom’s brothers, Herb Vaughan ’60 and John Vaughan joyed dinner in early May with John ’67. Tom left behind a true legacy and Carole Whittle and as always of a kind, considerate, Christian remain impressed by their “blowin’ man – an example of a true follower and goin’.” John and Carole had of “The man from Galilee, Jesus just had lunch with the inseparable Christ,” which was the theme of “roommate gang of four,” Lynn and Tom’s memorial service.

Suzanne Avis, Harry and Sis WarHoward Lawrence attended ner, and Kirk and Kitty Hubbard at roommate Frank Gilmore’s memothe Southern Inn in Lexington. All were doing well. John reported that rial service in Oxford, Mississippi, Harry wrote another book, which in late February and gave a eulogy we will read and report on in the devoted to Frank’s days at VMI. next issue of these ramblings.

Other eulogies included his childTommy Hunter reports from Mihood days and early work ethic, Class of 1957: Dick Collier, Kirk Hubbard and retired U.S. Army his time as chemistry department Maj. Gen. Joe Gray ’58 attended Tom Vaughn’s memorial ser- lam, Texas, that “he is aging gracehead at Ole Miss, his successes as vice at Williamsburg Presbyterian Church April 12, 2018. Also at- fully and still enjoying life in East tending were Rusty Loth ’59 and Tom’s brothers, Herb Vaughn chancellor of Montana Tech and ’60 and John Vaughn ’67.

Texas.” He is shooting trap, doing a his days as president of the Goldlittle fishing, said his shooting skills are not what they used to be, and water Scholarship Fund. It was a alas, he is not putting as many miles brief but impressive summary of on his motorhome as he used to. So, his accomplishments. Ann appreciTommy, what else is new? You are ated the picture Dick Collier sent right in tune with the rest of us. her of brother rats in Col. Pickral’s We had a nice note from Nick 1955 chemistry class. Dick referred Kallelis, who had attended the 60th to Frank as a “chemists’ chemist.” birthday of his daughter, Karen, Kirk Hubbard said, “It was a priviMarch 28 in Philadelphia, Pennsyllege to have Frank as a member of our class. He helped make the rest vania. He stopped in Reading to see of us look good.” A subsequent medaughter Cindi and had lunch with Joyce Schladitz, who, he reports, morial service was held for Frank at is doing well. The Kallelis family Montana Tech in Butte, Montana, includes five great-grands and 15 in April. grands. The Greeks have always Bill Moore reported that he and believed in living fully, albeit with Lionel Hancock attended Charlie Jenkins’ memorial service in Nor- Class of 1957: Quantitative chemistry lab class in fall 1954 was taught great passion.

Howard and Jack Trant recently folk, along with all of his room- by Capt. Cecil H. Webb ’52. From left, kneeling, were Nick Kallelis, mates present: Claiborne Copeland, Pete Riddle, Dick Newman and Frank Gilmore. Standing: Jim Bryant, reminisced about Jack’s days in the Mark Doty, Al Baumgartner, Capt. Webb, John Machen ’56, Bob Army Medical Corps as a practicing Drummond Ayres and Charlie Susnar, Dick Ymiolek and Dick Collier. medical doctor, although he had not Jeckell. Charlie practiced law in Norfolk after earning his law degree from we go to press, we should report that Howard completed his ophthalmology residency/speWashington and Lee University. Charlie had has just received a report from Betsy Davis that cialty at that time. Jack’s experiences took him served in the Marine Corps, loved baseball and Russ’ condition continues to deteriorate, and around the globe from Turkey to the Far East. was known to have a “crusty exterior but big his prognosis is not good; we say a prayer for On one flight to the Far East, he met a crewand kind heart.” our class president. member who had lived on the 4th stoop with us We want to continue to recognize those on We ask each of you to become a part of the but left school early. Now, who would that have the gim list and stay in contact with and sup- working support group to reach out to those been? The moral to the story is: “VMI may be port them and pray for their return to good of our brother and sister rats who are facing small in number, but it is everywhere.”

Jay and Sonja Musser emailed recently from health. They are: Russell Davis, Bob Hall, complicated health issues. Cards, letters, phone a road trip vacation he and Sonja made to OrJohn Quillen, Dixie Thomas and Phil Peters. calls and emails mean a great deal to those of Are there others we need to know about? As us facing late-in-life challenges. Semper fidelis. lando with a visit to his daughter in Destin,

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Class Notes and Frances moved to St. Louis in Florida. Jay’s final comment: “On the 1984, where he was a professor of road again.” surgery at the Washington University Ben Elmore wrote that his next School of Medicine in 1994, where door neighbor is golfer Jerry Pate who Bill remains on a retired/emeritus has a one-hole golf course in his backstatus. To which Tex replied: “Sir! My yard. Ben has always found a way to son graduated from WashU.” A small “live the good life.” world it is, indeed. Tex recently retired Field editor Garland Sullivan, from Auburn University as professor following a dedicated arduous efemeritus, department of managefort, located Lew Diuguid this past March at his new address: 830 ment, and now lives in Florida on 40th Street, Apt. 303, Baltimore, Amelia Island; he invites all who will MD 21211. Phone: (410) 243-4018. to come on down to the island and Email: lewkaydiuguid@earthlink.net. Class of 1957: Roommates Lynn Avis, Harry Warner, John Whit- visit. The only catch is that you have Lew seems to be enjoying total tle and Kirk Hubbard. to stay at the Ritz Carlton, as he does retirement (whatever that is) folnot provide room and board. His final words were: “Lost a wife and gained a fiancée.” lowing a long and successful career with The Nothing politically correct about Tex. Washington Post.

We continue to be serious about reaching out Lew and Garland reminisced about their muand contacting “no contact” brother rats and tual interests in jazz, complete with past trips to ask for all to help. We have about 19 classmates such venerable jazz clubs as Birdland and Hickory who remain “MIA.” They are Sam Barker, Bill House featuring such greats as Marian McPartBlackwell, Bob Blocker, Bill Colvin, Dave Davland, Nat King Cole, Count Basie, Dave Brubeck and Billy Taylor. They also recalled the times when enport, Mark Doty, Cliff Dowdy, Bruce Dunswe had a couple of great jazz bands, as well as the eth, Bill Haas, Jerry Harden, Art McCrary, Jim big bands like Ray Anthony and Tex Beneke, at McCrary, Phil Miller, Fred Newcomb, Bob VMI for formal dances, such as Louis Armstrong Rader, Pete Riddle, Fritz Scholtz, Joe Wickes and Stan Kenton. George Sydnor was president of and Vic Wolf. If anyone has news of or about the Hop Committee in those days, and the band these guys please let us know. selection group of three included George, Carter As a parting observation, we remind you of Fox and David Dunn, who both individually and the front of barracks Class of ’57 brick memorial collectively knew of no fiscal constraint at all to where names of brother rats who have donated Class of 1957: Names of Class of 1957 ring the consternation of treasurer Marvin Reinstein, to VMI will live forever! To qualify for a brick committee members pictured under a photo of the class ring. who remained convinced that we were doomed to with your name appropriately inscribed, all you bankruptcy the entire ’56-’57 year. need do is donate at least $2,500 to VMI on a cuGarland and Lew continued on, reflecting on he had scratched his bald head a bit then pulled mulative basis since June 1, 1998, to any and all their past friendship with much-admired friend an old memory chip out of the recessed cell stor- alumni funds. To check the status of your brick, and Brother Rat Bill “Eagle” Vaughan and his age area in his somewhat demented brain, it fi- phone the vice president of annual and reunion nally dawned on George that this Tex guy was remarkable career from VMI cadet to general giving at (800) 444-1839, ext. 244 or 250. Our Bill’s rat dyke, Mike Carr ’59, as we knew him barracks brick display is impressive, and if you counsel for General Motors Co. Garland related that he and Eagle had been bachelor officer quar- at that time. When we were 2nd Class cadets, have not been “bricked,” why not go ahead and ters roommates at Fort Benning, Georgia, for the Bill had the requisite sabre carrying, cadet ser- qualify now, and join so many of your brother Basic Infantry Officers Course before going their geant rank that qualified him to have a dyke, rats who are there.

As your class agents, we work to gather all the separate ways to respective duty stations. After and so, by default, Tex got the four of us – Bill news we judge you want to hear and then some. his Army commitment, Eagle taught and was a Gay, Drewry Fox, George Sydnor and Greg Your notes, pictures, emails and calls are the TAC officer at VMI, earned a law degree from Taylor – in September 1955.

Thanks for reaching out, Tex Carr ’59 (texcarr@ golden nuggets we publish – following appropriWashington and Lee University, served with the Department of Environmental Affairs in Wash- gmail.com). It’s been a long time since those long- ate censorship, of course. Please let us hear from you and about you and your contacts in the VMI ington and then became manager of energy pro- ago days in No. 256 some 63 years ago. As you may be aware, that room is now part of the wom- family. curement for General Motors Co. en’s sinks, which rise vertically from the old Nos. In the bonds until the sun sets for the last time George Sydnor and Bill Gay received a surprise 156 and 154 to the old Nos. 454 and 456. and then for eternity. email back in mid-February, the subject line of In his response to Tex, Bill mentioned that he George and Howard which read: “This is your Dyke, Tex Carr.” After

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VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1958: Present at the reunion were Julius L. Berman, Howell L. Bowen, Joseph M. Boze Jr., David L. Camper, Jack A. Clark, H.H. Hunter Clarke, J. William Corr, James W. Cowan, John T. Cunningham, C. Ernest Edgar III, Louis A. Farmer, Kenneth E. Godfrey, Joseph G. Gray, Frank S. Hancock, William G. Harshaw Jr., Charles B. Hayes, William M. Holt Jr., Onza E. Hyatt, Anthony R. Lash Jr., David P. Martin, A. Lee McCown, Maurice F. Menefee Jr., Peter J. Muto, H. Hull Negley III, Frank C. Norvell Jr., John A. Paganelli, Roy E. Palmer Jr., Jerome T. Paull, John B. Payne III, John O. Peters, Robert E. Phillips, David T. Pitkethly, James E. Poteet, James M. Rea Jr., Richard B. Robertson, J. Paul Royer Jr., Thomas A. Saunders III, Harry D. Shepherd III, James E. Stilwell, Ronald X. Swirk, Beverly G. Sykes Jr., Paul Drewry Troxler, William J. Walker Jr., S.W. Whitehurst Jr., S.L. Williamson Jr., Jan B. Woodman and William W. Yaun Jr.

Class Notes

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Class Notes our popular reflections session, phoned many BRs to urge them to come and suggested the popular VMI ’58 socks as the class gift. Thanks, too, Lee McCown to Barney Odend’hal for taking care of our class flags between reunions and getting them where they were needed on time.

It appears that our class had one of the longer reunions, starting Sunday night with a cocktail party at Moody Hall and ending WednesThese class notes follow April’s 60th Reunion day morning with a brunch sponsored by Jack in Lexington, where we didn’t let a little rain keep Payne. Thank you, Jack, for brunch, for the idea us from having a terrific time, as verified by the of having reflections and for being the high bidcollage of photos taken of our class. der ($1,000) on the VMI belt once owned by Staff Our turnout included Sheila and Jules Berman; Balderson, brought to the reunion as a fundraiser Ewing, wife of Charlie Best; Howell Bowen and

by Bill Harshaw. Proceeds went to our ’58 footRosemary Connelly; Lynn and Jack Boze; BarClass of 1958: After the rain, Charlie ball scholarship fund. bara and Dave Camper; Betty Jean and Hunter Hayes, Lee McCown and John Payne, along with Jan Woodman and his Here’s what some of you had to say about our Clarke; Catherine and Bill Coor; Jim Cowan; grandson, Ben Johnson, headed to60th.

Jane and Jack Cunningham; Elizabeth and Erward barracks.

Our class president, Stirling Williamson: “I nie Edgar; Jean and Lou Farmer; Lorna and thought that our 60th Reunion turned Ken Godfrey; Betty and Joe Gray; Gale out about as good as it gets. We had a and Frank Hancock; Carolyn and Bill great turnout, and just about every brothHarshaw; Charlie Hayes; Landa and er rat who was physically able attended.

Bill Holt; Becky and Onza Hyatt; Tony We shared a lot of organ recitals and a Lash; Annie Mae and Dave Martin; Lee lot of good memories. The Institute and McCown and Laura Cameron; Carol the cadets looked the best I can rememand Moon Menefee; Judy and Hull Negber, and despite the parade being rained ley; Frank Norvell and Martha Booker; out, the Old Yell for ’58 in the courtyard Barney Odend’hal; Roy Palmer; Karen by the whole Corps was a highlight. and Jerry Paull; Jack Payne and Helle “Every reunion event appeared to be Kiiss; Susie and John Peters; Mara and successful, and we owe a special thanks Dave Pitkethly; Peggy and Jim Poteet; to Laura Cameron and Lee McCown for Monte Rea; Robbie Robertson; Paul all that they did to make it happen and Royer; Tom Saunders; Harry Shepherd; for all they do every day for our class. In Harriet Schrieves; Kay and Jim Stilwell; Ron Swirk and four of his children, Class of 1958: Doc Carroll in bronze and Doc’s boys plus addition, their daughter, Alane Cameron Frank, John, Mark and Yvonne; Janice one: Jim Poteet, Dave Pitkethly, Gates Sykes, Hull Negley, Ford, conducted a very thoughtful meCharlie Hayes and Bill Harshaw. morial service that left few dry eyes. and Gates Sykes; Drew Troxler and his “In hindsight, I am so happy that the daughter, Chambliss Stevens; Bill Walkamazing Corps Physical Training Faciler; Eleana and Stuart Whitehurst; Jane ity did not exist in our day. I don’t think and Stirling Williamson; Jan Woodman I could have physically done what every and his grandson, Ben Johnson; and cadet is required to do in that facility.

Darla and Warren Yaun.

There is no doubt in my mind that the Laura and I enjoyed collaborating on Corps is much more fit than we were, but the reunion with hardworking BRs like I doubt if they have any better time than Stirling Williamson and his high school we had at such renowned establishments sweetheart/wife, Jane, who expertly as the Liquid Lunch. handled arrangements with VMI, among “I have to add that it was great to hear many other things; Bill Gee, who did his the voice of my roommate, Jim Moore, usual outstanding job on the class bookon the phone at our class dinner.” let – we missed you and Vivian and hope Ernie Edgar: “We got home from to see you next time; Joe Gray, whose Class of 1958: Maj. Gen. Charles Edgar ascended the sentiour trip last night, and I could not let transportation planning was perfectly ex- nel box for the Old Yell. today go by without writing. Our 60th ecuted; and Jan Woodman, who emceed

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes was a fun time, and its success was so because of your extra efforts in overcoming all those Lexington challenges you know so well. Thank you, thank you. Elizabeth and I really enjoyed being with everyone.”

The Edgars headed to Norfolk after the reunion where they saw Carolyn and Bill Harshaw, the masterminds behind the renovation of the 11 Moses Ezekiel ’866 statues in the Norfolk Botanical Garden: “We really enjoyed the Ezekiel statuary ... The Harshaws certainly did a magnificent job in making that happen, and Bill, Carolyn and the executive director squired us around in a golf cart. The azaleas were gorgeous, and there was a Chinese exhibit to top it off. If you haven’t visited, you should. It is well done.”

Tom Saunders: “It was a great reunion, and I enjoyed being with everyone. I had a really great – I should say a fabulous – time. I love the energy that exists in all of the 1958 brother rats. It does one’s heart good. Exaggeration aside, I find myself laughing as I write this thinking about the stories and experiences that we shared over the last few days. It is a great honor to be a brother rat in the VMI Class of 1958. Thank you for the 64 years we have spent together and for cherished memories that will remain with me forever. Godspeed to you and your family until we get together again. Warmest regards.”

Class of 1958: Lorna and Ken Godfrey in Norway, keeping up the hectic travel schedule described in the last Review.

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Martha Booker, who came, as always, with Frank Norvell: “How I wish I had gone to VMI! This reunion was so much fun and so beautifully planned. My alums could learn serious lessons on how to plan such a special event. Thank you, thank you for all of your hard work and time involved. I am still trying to recover from being around so many party animals!” Frank phoned to pass on his thanks, too.

A reunion experience several BRs enjoyed, thanks to Charlie Hayes’ efforts, was a chance to see the bust of Doc Carroll in Maury-Brooke Hall that Charlie made happen. He sent pictures of this gathering, plus this report: “I contacted Buddy Bryan ’71 [VMI Foundation chief operating officer] and asked for the names of any of our BRs who had made donations to the Carroll Fund or the biology department in the past five years. I learned that Gates Sykes had been making regular donations to the biology department discretionary fund. I thought that he should know that his BRs who were biology majors appreciated his generosity, so we cooked up a little ceremony to present him with two ‘certificates.’ The first certificate read as follows: ‘Be it known that, in recognition of his good looks, charming personality, high intellect and extreme generosity to the biology department of the Virginia Military Institute, Beverly Gates Sykes Jr., is now and forever will be one of Doc’s boys.’ The certificate was signed

by Bill Harshaw, Charlie Hayes, Bill Keefe, Hull Negley, Dave Pitkethly and Jim Poteet.

“Doc’s boys stressed with Gates that they ‘never forgot the importance and value of civil engineers’ and gave him a second certificate saying: ‘Civil engineer, overheard June 10, 1958, at Virginia Military Institute graduation. Four years ago, I could not even spell engineer; now I are one!’ This certified featured a cartoon cat in a sandbox, building a castle that looks suspiciously like the one used as the symbol of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.” Pretty funny, Charlie!

A highlight of the reunion was a new feature, reflections, the brainstorm of Jack Payne, emceed by Jan Woodman, where BRs, and in one case a spouse, reflected on important chapters in their lives.

Moon Menefee described harrowing experiences in the Vietnam War and made us happy he was alive to tell the tale. Roy Palmer talked about his career in the Air Force and at Boeing, accompanied by a slideshow that let us watch him age ever so slightly. Dave and Mara Pitkethly’s

photographs showed the Kenyan family they are helping in a big way with the children’s education and clothing and by making life in general a little smoother. Drew Troxler talked about his childhood in other countries, where his father worked on big infrastructure projects such as dams. Jan Woodman’s grandson, Ben Johnson, who helped his grandfather make the trip and played guitar at the memorial service, also read Gene Grayson’s memories of his Vietnam service. Ben will be attending Gettysburg College in the fall.

A highlight of the reunion was getting to meet Stuart Whitehurst’s new wife, Eleana. This, from Stuart: “Eleana and Betty were really close friends, and her husband died in 2010. We have been ‘couples friends’ for 50 years. Several months after Betty died, we started going to dinner, and after a year, we decided to get married.

We were married Jan. 27, 2018. I moved into her townhome and sold my home! All of this was very unexpected but has turned out to be the best thing for both of us! You never know what life has in store for you!”

While the parade was canceled by rain, there was an unusual quality to our “march” into barracks: The band played “Lili Marlene,” perhaps best known as sung by Marlene Dietrich. It was a huge World War II hit with both Allied and Axis forces, who were sometimes close enough to each other on European battlefields to hear it coming from the enemy side in another language. There is a seven-CD set of 200 different artists singing it!

When we thanked band director Col. John Brodie (Hon.) for the choice, he told us he was asked a year ago by James Warrington ’48B to play it for his 70th Reunion. “I wrote it out from a piano score, and the band worked it up the day before the parade,” he said. “We will use it again next year, I think. So glad you liked it, too.”

We pulled up one Dietrich version when we got home, and it was definitely a march. Based on a poem written by a German soldier during World War I, it was adapted for a German song in the 1930s. What a great way to honor the alumni and alumnae of a military college. I am told it caused some grown men and women to cry.

Others who helped tremendously with reunion planning deserve our thanks: Becky, wife of Onza Hyatt, called all of the sister rats to encourage them to come, succeeding with Ewing Best, wife of Charlie Best, and Harriet Shrieves, wife of George Shrieves. It was great to see both of them. Becky also helped with

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Class Notes many details in the hospitality suite, and Martha Booker helped at the memorial service.

Some of those who could not attend the reunion but enjoyed receiving the directory and the socks included the following. Sue, wife of Earl Bennett, wrote: “I have received the wonderful VMI ’58 socks and the great booklet. How thoughtful of you to send this to me. I love the picture of Earl and all of the comments from those planning to attend. Congratulations.”

Shelby, wife of Staff Balderson, left a phone message saying how much she enjoyed the mailing, ending with, “Love the socks.”

Don Cuthrell wrote: “I received a copy of the reunion booklet today and was moved by reading the notes of our BRs now 60 years away from our VMI experiences. Congratulations on what I have read and heard was a terrific event.”

Sandy, wife of Dan Yon, wrote: “I had a pleasant surprise this morning when I went out to get my paper. I thank you so much for the both the directory and the socks. I enjoyed reading about what everyone has been doing, and I was surprised that so many of the class are no longer with us. I love the socks and will enjoy wearing them come winter. Thank you for making me feel like a part of the 60th, even though I wasn’t there. In the spirit.”

The following BRs indicated strongly that they would have come to the reunion but had a restriction or obligation: Sybil Baker, Frank Boeggeman, Bob Buckland, Art Carnevale, Alex Clarke, Don Cuthrell, Brooke Doggett, Gene Grayson, Sully Griffin, Bruce Haldeman, Guy Hence, Bill Keefe, Gene Martin, Flip Miller, Jim Moore, Tom Nance, Mike Smeltzer, Bob Spurrier, Earl Talley and Roland Tharp.

Upon returning home from the reunion, I received this heartfelt message from Annemarie following Wes Roberts’ death: “Close behind Wes’ love of God and family was his love for his BRs and for VMI,” she said. “Right to the last, before he became incapable of response, he would acknowledge recognition of names of BRs who were calling in to check on him.

“I have said to you, Lee, and so many other BRs, that Wes would always recognize your names when I would share messages from any of you.

God bless you all for the brotherly love you have shared for so many years. Please keep my name on your BR contact list, so I do not lose track of Wes’ ‘band of brothers.’” You are on that list for life, Annemarie. Keep in touch.

Wes was our class agent for 13 years, and he and

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Annemarie made an outstanding team. He was an Army first lieutenant paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne Division, a military police officer and then a special agent with the FBI for 33 years, retiring in 1993. His obituary described him as “a devout Christian, church leader and founding member at St. Thomas Lutheran Church in Miami, Florida, and a member of Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Lexington, Virginia. His fondness for country life led to the purchase of Estherbrook, a 50-acre homestead near his college town of Lexington where he and his wife spent many summer months after retirement.” Many of us remember the wonderful reunion hospitality offered by Wes and Annemarie at Estherbrook some years ago.

Lorna and Ken Godfrey were at the reunion, and I am including a photograph of them on one of their many trips, this one to Norway. I described their hectic travel schedule in the last Review but didn’t have the photograph then.

I heard from Arnie Schlossberg’s sister, Deda Miller, who remembered getting to know Jim Moore and Lenny Rubin at VMI through Arnie.

She called Jim and Lenny after we spoke and enjoyed talking with them. Arnie and Deda grew up in my hometown of Roanoke, although I did not know them until VMI because Arnie went to Mercersburg Academy for high school, and Deda is younger. Working with Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System, Deda was responsible for the exhibit featuring recordings exchanged between Arnie and his wife during his time in Vietnam. I strongly recommend you hear these. Arnie rose to major general in the U.S. Army, and after a highly decorated career lasting more than 30 years, moved to Orland Park, Illinois, where he became one of the founders of The National Insurance Crime Bureau. He died of a brain tumor in 1994. I was interested to learn that, while serving in the Army, he was awarded a Harvard University fellowship and taught at the John F. Kennedy School of Government.

Lenny’s new phone numbers and email are correct in the roster at the back of our reunion directory, but not in the individual input pages with photos.

Gentle reminder to all: When you make your yearly contribution to VMI, please designate all or a part to go to the VMI Class of 1958 Football Scholarship Fund honoring our undefeated team of 1957.

Many of you have probably, with your contributions to VMI, earned the right to have bricks in

front of barracks in the ’58 section. Jan Woodman recently very generously donated bricks in memory of classmates Bruce Baker and Bo Noyes (his roommates), plus Bob Hickerson and Jack Trafton. All of these bricks were in place in time for our reunion.

If you want to find out how many bricks you have earned and/or if the people you are thinking of honoring already have a brick, contact Sam Sorrells at ssorrells@VMIAA.org.

Cheers, Lee

1959

Shep Shepard

This quarter began with a shocking call from June Smith informing me that Mark died Feb. 5 at The Adler Center, a hospice facility, in Loudoun County. Mark’s ashes were buried in the family plot at Leeds Cemetery in Markham, Virginia. His family and a few close friends like Harlee Pate and Bet and Jim Vermillion were present for the graveside service. It was a gray, cold day fitting for bagpipes and old Scottish tunes, which Mark loved.

He would have approved of the weather and the music. June added a beautiful touch by putting two yellow roses and two of Mark’s favorite cigars in with the ashes. The flowers from the class, sent

by Rusty Loth, were perfect. June said she enjoyed the arrangement many days after Mark’s service.

Bill Kirkland wrote that he has cancer – colon, pancreatic and liver. The doctors are optimistic about the pancreatic and liver cancer, which can be treated with medication, but they can only slow down the colon cancer. Bill has come to grips with the fact that he has only a limited amount of time left and has learned to take life on from day to day.

I received the sad news that Ed Talley recently suffered a loss no parent should have to face. Ed lost his son, Christopher, to cancer. Unfortunately, our class has had far too many who have lost a child. Kurt Berggren, Jim Sam Gillespie, Jim McFalls, Ina Ingram and Skip White have all suffered that loss. Christopher Talley was a very successful orthopedic surgeon who lived in Vero Beach, Florida. Ed is holding up well and recognized earlier when Christopher was diagnosed with cancer that the outcome would not be good.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Keep June, Bill and Ed, as well as all our other brother and sister rats who have lost loved ones, in your prayers.

Jim and Bet Vermillion are doing fine. They were in Lexington, Virginia, not long ago to watch their grandson, Cadet Michael Spence ’21, who is a pitcher for the VMI baseball team. It is Michael’s first year on the team and that day he saw nothing but the walls of the bullpen.

Buzz and Virginia Nowlin were unable to attend our Florida group mini reunion, because Buzz is still recovering from rheumatoid arthritis which has affected his lungs. He was pretty much on the mend but had a setback when he caught the flu in January. Buzz and Virginia still live in Hot Springs and go to most football and basketball games.

Pete McWane has now reached the golden age of 80 and is feeling fine and still seeking out new adventures. Pete noticed that his last adventure was highlighted in an article about the Memorial Ring Program in the last Alumni Review. Pete was instrumental in starting the program back in 2013. It was not implemented as he imagined it; he wanted to emulate the U.S. Military Academy program where the gold from the donated alumni rings are melted down and blended with the 2nd Class rings. Our program is a start, but Pete hopes to someday change it to be more like the USMA program. Recently, Pete took a trip to the island of Svalbard, a Norwegian island north of Norway, where he visited a town named Longyearbyen where they have total darkness six months out of the year. The temperature in Longyearbyen was

in the 20s, whereas the temperature in Columbus, Ohio, his hometown, was 11 degrees. This winter has been especially brutal. Pete is looking forward to our next trip together, a transit through the Panama Canal in June 2018.

The Florida group finally got a mini reunion in after canceling the last one scheduled for September due to Hurricane Irma. Lee and Nancy Southard pulled together the reunion, and they did yeoman service. They planned and executed

Class of 1959: Shep Shepard with his son, Phil ’83, after Phil ran the Melbourne Beaches Music Half Marathon in Melbourne, Florida.

the reunion despite the fact that, for the past year, they have been in the process of renovating their new home in Fort Myers. Lee and Nancy feel they could make a sequel to the movie, “The Money Pit.” It is completed now, and it is a beautiful home they can enjoy for many years to come.

They chose a beautiful hotel in the best small city in Florida, Punta Gorda, for our reunion. The turnout was exceptional – perhaps due to the horrendous weather most people faced north of the Mason-Dixon Line. Don and Carol Messner, who winter just across the harbor in Port Charlotte, were there. They reluctantly sacrificed a portion of their time in their beloved Pittsburgh to stay in Florida specifically to attend the mini reunion.

It was great to have Ron and Mary Alice Marley there in good health. Last year, while visiting relatives, Mary Alice got tied up with a dog leash and a wayward dog. She suffered a nasty fall, doing some serious damage to her back. She’s doing better now. It was good to see that Ron did not wear his coveralls. Mary Alice is doing such a great job with so little to work with. Dave and Sandy Goode were there. Dave can relate to the dangers of dogs and leashes, having experienced a similar incident years ago resulting in a repeat hip replacement. We were delighted that Bob Haines brought along his granddaughters, Brittany and Heather Haines. The third member of Bob’s “Charlie’s Angels,” Tiffany Haines ’15, was the first woman at VMI to be selected for U.S. Air Force pilot training. Tiffany completed Air Force pilot training in Columbus, Mississippi, and is now stationed at

Class of 1959: The Florida group assembled at the Vietnam Memorial Wall in Punta Gorda, Florida, to pay tribute to the 44 VMI alumni who died in Vietnam. Attending the event were Todd Helt, bugler; Don Hussey, bagpiper; Nancy and Lee Southard; Betty and Penn Whitescarver; Bob and Lois Hobson; Carol and Don Messner; Connie and Bill Nebraska; Bob Haines and his granddaughter, Brittany Loftis; Ann and Shep Shepard; Robert and Priscilla Martin; Art and Ginny Brandriff; Rachel Keesling, mayor of Punta Gorda; Jean and Mel Anderson; Terrie Conrad, VMI Foundation vice president of planned giving; Tex Carr; Dave and Sandy Goode; and Ron and Mary Alice Marley.

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Class Notes Little Rock Air Force Base flight school, where she is completing advanced training in the very modern C-130J. Brittany is a very accomplished emergency room nurse in Dallas. She and her husband just moved into their new home north of Dallas. Heather is a student at Texas A&M in Corpus Christi. Bob and Lois Hobson joined us from Utah by way of Atlanta, where they were visiting family. Art and Ginny Brandriff joined us all the way from Chesapeake, Virginia. We should be seeing a lot more of Art and Ginny in Florida, since their son and his family have moved to the Tampa area. I was glad to see that Mel and Jean Anderson were able to fit us into their tight travel schedule this year. I believe they are making a play for the globe-trotter award at our next class reunion. It was great to see Tex Carr and Emily Hanzok from the Amelia Island area. We are expecting an exciting announcement from them any day now. Robert and Priscilla Martin were there from Bradenton, where they are enjoying life in a lovely retirement community. Penn and Betty Whitescarver were back in Florida from Bel Air, Maryland, just in time to attend the reunion. Bill and Connie Nebraska came down from Hernando. Everyone had a great time kibitzing and catching up on what everyone was doing but the highlight of the reunion had to be the Vietnam Wall Memorial Ceremony. We conducted a beautiful memorial ceremony at the Vietnam Wall Memorial in Punta Gorda honoring the 44 VMI alumni who died in Vietnam. Our ceremony emulated the New Market Day ceremony held at VMI every year, including, of course, the roll call of the dead.

We called out the name of each alumnus who lost his life in Vietnam followed by the traditional response, “Died on the field of honor, sir.” Once all names were called, a bugler played taps and then, led by a bagpiper playing “Amazing Grace,” we all walked to the center of the wall where we sang the “VMI Doxology” and gave an Old Yell for the Class of 1959. Bill and Connie Nebraska did a wonderful job carrying a red, white and yellow wreath to the wall. When Lee and I were discussing who should carry the wreath and Bill’s name came up, I was a little apprehensive, because I had just finished reading the book, “Best Regrets,” the story about Coach John McKenna and his years at VMI. Considering the number of fumbles Bill had as quarterback, I wasn’t sure he could carry the wreath without fumbling it, but I knew Connie was there to recover the wreath. I am happy to say that Bill made it all the way to the wall without

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an incident. We were honored to have the mayor of Punta Gorda, Rachel Keesling, attend our ceremony, as well as Howard Kunik, the city manager. The mini reunion was a great success thanks to Lee and Nancy.

Several months ago, I promised you a blow-byblow description of Bob Haines’ trip aboard the USS Nimitz as it made its way from Hawaii to San Diego. Bob reported that the Navy’s Tiger Program is a winner. Cody, Bob’s grandson, is an F-18 jet engine mechanic, and he invited his father and Bob to join him for the final leg of their cruise from Hawaii to San Diego aboard the carrier. They watched launches and recoveries, fueled a destroyer during a heavy sea refueling operation and got a demonstration of the ship’s defensive fire power. They watched an engine run-up on the test cell in the stern of the ship. The engine undergoing the test got stuck in afterburner mode and had to be manually shutdown. Guess whose job it was to do it? Cody. Without hesitation, he put on his safety gear and proceeded to shut down the monster engine. The program is not for the faint of heart, nor for those with medical issues. Each day they had to climb/descend the equivalent of eight stories of very steep “ladders.” Bob said it’s a bucket list experience.

During the past 13 years, there has been a “love story” associated with the Stonewall Class. It all began the second evening of our 45th Reunion. As we were standing about enjoying liquid libations

Class of 1959: John and Pat Van Kesteren’s great-grandson, who is entering first grade in Melbourne, Australia, wears a hat that both represents VMI well and is perfect for the Outback.

and enjoying repeating those never-ending war stories, into the room enters Leon Elsarelli. After procuring a drink, he noticed a most attractive sister rat on the far side of the room and inquired as to who she might be. He was told she was Marjorie, the widow of Jim Garnett and a guest of the Class of 1959. After introductions were made, Leon told Marjorie he had been in Korea with Jim during the Cuban Missile Crisis; they were both Doc’s boys at the Institute and sometimes studied together. The pleasant evening came to an end, and three months later Leon and Marge were married. Congratulations, Leon and Marge, and may you enjoy many more years together.

When Tex Carr and Emily Hanzok were on a river cruise traveling through Greece, Spain and Italy, on two occasions, women stood up on a bus and offered Tex their seat. A few weeks ago, as Tex was checking out of Lowes, he asked to get the veterans’ discount, where upon the young man at the checkout counter thanked him for his service and added that “it must have been rough in Korea.”

Some people just do not age well.

Lee and Nancy Southard have completed the extensive remodeling of their home in Fort Myers, Florida. Most decisions were made by Nancy, because Lee was tied up publishing his book, “To Know with Certainty,” which hits the bookstores in October. Bobby Ross was kind enough to write the foreword for Lee. Lee explains that the purpose of the book is to prepare Christian high school kids to intellectually defend and contend for their faith in any setting. Lee feels we are losing far too many young people from the Christian faith before graduation and/or too many graduates are ill prepared to defend against competing worldviews.

A major reason young people cite for leaving the church is that, while in school, their questions were not adequately answered by the church, the school or parents. This cuts across all Christian denominations. The book addresses those questions with evidence and facts. To learn more go to www. toknowwithcertainty.com. Lee has been teaching a course on the subject for the past four years, and now he is preparing it for download from the website. He had a memorable interview on WBIT TV in Augusta, Georgia, in April. What started out as a book to address a problem has now become a cause for Lee, and he reminds us that Moses was 80 when he led the Israelites out of Egypt. Jim Wood, Larry Wood’s twin brother, has a daughter, Sharon Wood, who recently graduated No. 1 in her civil engineering class from the University

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes of Virginia. She went on to get her master’s and change his living quarter to Memphis in June. It’s a so proud – as she should be. good move for Rusty, as he’ll be close to daughter Spence and Beverly Tucker are busy getting doctorate degrees in civil engineering and received two distinguished awards, the Opat Award and the Laura and will have no trouble, knowing Rusty, their gardens ready for the growing season. EveryUVa 2018 Distinguished Alumna Award. Con- making new friends at the retirement community, thing in Lexington is lush and green, and Spence gratulations, Jim; you must be very proud of your which looks to be a very nice fit for “The Bear.” It has his vegetable garden already planted. Spence might bring him out and be good for his lifelong published another book, “The Roots and Condaughter’s accomplishments.

John and Pat Van Kesteren think we are lucky shyness problem. sequences of Independence Wars.” Beverly, on Dick and Judith Irons are still playing old folks: the other hand, has been actively spearheading to be living in Florida, especially this past winter.

No luck to it; after spending a couple of winters in Taking their pills, coping with aches and pains, an effort to restore Stonewall Jackson Cemetery.

Kansas, we swore we would never be cold again. doting over grandkids or great-grandkids, oc- Spence has graciously accepted the challenge of John and Pat had a nice lunch with Marvin Bocasionally thinking of old friends, and hopefully, preparing a history of our class for our 60th Reswell while they were in Charlottesville recently thanking God for our ability to still breathe. Dick union next April. You’ll be hearing from him. and reported that he is doing well. John is trying to plays golf once or twice a week, looks after JuOne of the many things we could do while in get Kurt Gloeckner to come to the Eastern Shore dith and goes to church Sundays. Not real excit- Punta Gorda attending the mini reunion was to to evaluate the dams he built to create irrigation ing, but he’s grateful that they are able to do that visit the Military Heritage Museum. While there, ponds. Kurt is a specialist in dam building the curator mentioned they were doing and is still actively involved in the business. a program to honor women who served The socialites Ralph and Janice Rae their country during World War II. I sugLawson continue to kibitz with brother gested to Lee Southard that he introduce and sister rats all over the country. They them to his mother-in-law, Nancy’s mom, met with Buzz and Virginia Nowlin while Alice Burke, 92 years young, who was one they were vacationing at The Homestead of the original Rosie the riveters. Alice has in Hot Springs, Virginia, home to Buzz been a fixture at our mini reunions and is and Virginia. Ralph and Janice Rae also sort of the matriarch of the Florida group. spent some cherished time with Jim and Nancy thought her mother would not Bet Vermillion at the Williamsburg VMI want to do it, but when asked she broke luncheon. They need to take on the job as down in tears and said it was time that class social directors. someone recognized what they did. Lee We missed Carl and Phyllis Kasko at and Nancy, along with Don and Carol this year’s Florida group mini, but they Messner, accompanied Alice to the interwere in the process of closing on their view, and all went well with a little help house. They were to move to their new from Nancy. Alice worked at Bellanca home in Reading, Pennsylvania, in June.

AirCraft Corp. in New Castle, Delaware, They have a daughter living in Reading Class of 1959: Bill Nebraska with his two sons and grand- from 1944-45 riveting the wings of the son on their annual steelhead trout fishing trip in northern and a son and daughter within a three Pennsylvania. From left, Bill’s grandson, Mark; son, Paul; Twin Engine AT-21-BL Trainer with the hour drive. Despite living in Mobile since Bill; and son, Todd. innovative tricycle landing gear. Bellanca 1983, they were all alone. They felt that, was across the street from William Penn at our age, it was time to move back with family. much. Dick and Judith hope all ’59 brother rats High School, where Alice went to school. After There new address is: 16 Regina Drive, Sinking are as lucky. Jack Christie writes that one of his graduating, she took a job as a secretary, hated Spring, PA, 19608. Carl and Phyllis invite anyone grandsons, Hunter Thompson, joined the Marine it, quit after two weeks and went to work at Belwho happens to be in the area to stop by and visit; Corps three years ago and just received his fourth lanca, because she wanted to help in the war efthey would love to have brother rats come and sit promotion; he is now a sergeant. Hunter said he fort. She met her husband there, and he went on with them for a spell. wanted to be a Marine to follow in some of Jack’s to help develop the arresting apparatus (tailhook) Bill Nebraska gets his boys together every year to footsteps. Jack says he has exceeded everything he for the aircraft carriers. A real wartime love story make their way to northern Pennsylvania, where ever thought he would achieve and makes Jack right out of a romance novel. Alice spoke about they cast their lines for the elusive steelhead trout. very proud. the working conditions, her work uniform, the A first last year for grandson, Mark, who is a fast Bonnie Pomponio has been staying close to riveter and many other interesting things. They member of the group now. Fantastic father, son home lately; however, she seems to be spend- had refreshments then all went out to dinner to and grandson get-together. ing a lot of time at grandchildren’s sporting celebrate a very successful day where Rosie the Ned Addison had lunch with the “Tuesday four- events. Basketball and flag football for David, 10, riveter was finally recognized. An interesting side some” (Loth, Martin, Addison and Myers). They and Tae Kwan Do for both David and J.T. J.T., note: Lindbergh’s first choice for his New York to were joined by honorary BR Johnny Sievers, who now 13, earned two gold medals at Special Olym- Paris flight was a Bellanca WB-2. The company’s wanted to wish Rusty bon voyage as he prepares to pics in Charlotte, North Carolina, and Bonnie is insistence on selecting his crew drove Lindbergh to

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Class Notes Ryan. Two years later, a Bellanca plane made the first trans-Pacific flight from Japan to Washington state.

As he often does, Brad Willard sent me a plethora of interesting information about his life and the history of his family. He recently received a letter from the editor of the Vietnam Magazine telling him he had just read an article titled, “Combat Engineers in Vietnam: The First Year,” that Brad wrote while attending the Engineer Officer Career Course some 51 years ago and wanted to published it in the April 2018 issue. It is the story of Brad’s first year in Vietnam. The editor told him it was a story that needed to be published. Brad is a standing member of the Society of American Military Engineers, received the Toulmin Medal in 1971 and was a nominee for the Wheeler Medal in 1971. In 1976, as the executive officer of the 864th Engineer Battalion, he carried his battalion commander’s flag to the summit of Mount Rainier, 14,410 feet. Brad thinks it might be the highest an Army engineer flag has ever been. Thanks, Brad.

Ann and I are doing fine, experiencing the same aches and pains as everyone else. Kids and grandkids are doing great. We are expecting a couple of weddings in the next few years. Our little Olympian, Megan, continues to excel in swimming, and if she can complete a 1-mile open water course, she may be eligible for the next World Olympics in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in March 2019.

I remind everyone that our 60th Reunion will be held in Lexington April 15-16, 2019. Lots of info will be forthcoming but mark your calendars.

Keep those cards, emails and letters coming in.

Yours in the spirit, Shep

1960

James A. Smith III

Greetings from St. James Plantation. I returned last night from a surgical mission to the Dominican Republic, having been away from Feb. 10-23.

I’m fortunate to be able to go.

While I was away, Joe Morabit had a birthday Feb. 10. He had some cardiac difficulties that were readily taken care off and is doing well.

Other birthday boys were Jon Parnell and Ed

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Martin Feb. 12 and Bill Keens and Jeep Goodwillie Feb. 15. All got birthday wishes.

On Feb. 12, Howard Moss sent an email in thanks for the support folks have given toward the sale of his book, “Kiss the Talisman.” Howard wrote: “I wanted to write a note of thanks and support on what you have done in fostering the sales and written reviews in support of ‘Kiss the Talisman.’ Thus far the book and e-book sales are now over 540 copies. Last week, Amazon came out with the second edition, which now includes several reviews which many of you wrote. We have done three book signings and have two more scheduled in the near future. The local newspapers have given us three excellent local reviews, and the prestigious Daedalus Flyer Magazine gave the book a featured review. Most importantly, the book has provided a donation approaching $4,000.00 to Capt. Paul M. Bayliss 1960 Memorial Scholarship fund at VMI. Personally, I must say the book has been a very trying and emotional experience for me but worth every second of it. I can’t thank you enough for your help along the journey. Love to you all, Howard.”

On a recent Facebook post by one of Howard’s flying companions, we were reminded of the wonderful service Howard performed while a flying in Vietnam. His colleague posted on Facebook: “With my first A-10 Squadron commander, retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Howard Moss, at our 510th Fighter Squadron reunion this past weekend – a truly outstanding leader who led the 510th as it was newly reactivated to an A-10 fighter Squadron at Royal Air Force Bentwaters, U.K. He put the ‘we’ and ‘us’ in the squadron and formed the team which won the 81st Tactical Fighter Wing Thompson Trophy, the semiannual trophy for overall bombing and gunnery scores, five times in a row. It was a great privilege for all of us to serve with him.”

I was able to speak with Carl Benner Feb. 18.

Carl was excited to be able to be one stroke closer to shooting his age. He is well. I received an email from George Coulbourn, who had spoken with Carl. George wrote: “Jimbo, in January, Judy and I were in Tucson on family business for a few days.

Afterward, we drove up to Sedona for some hiking and sightseeing. En route, it was convenient to stop at Anthem. I’d heard about the veterans’ memorial there, so we went over to visit it. It’s very well done. The base of the memorial is a set of inscribed bricks not unlike those in front of the VMI barracks. I scanned them looking for names

of interest. I spotted ‘Carl Benner,’ with the right dates to be our Carl. I had Bill Elliott’s info in my iPhone, so I checked in with him, and he confirmed that Carl actually lived in Anthem. I called and had a chat with his wife, Barbara, and later with Carl. They were leaving for Hawaii early the next morning, and although Carl graciously offered to find time for a visit, we decided to take a rain check. He did confirm that they’ll be coming to our 60th. George.”

On Feb. 21, I caught up with Guy Smith. He had just gotten off the golf course and was doing well.

I received an email from Lou Shuba ’61 with the bad news of the passing of our Brother Rat Ken Scott who had endured a long illness with great courage. His obituary is as follows: “Kenneth ‘Ken’ Scott Sr., 79, of Murrysville, died peacefully Sunday, Feb. 18, 2018, in Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center, Windber. He was born Sept. 3, 1938, in Pittsburgh, a son of the late John and Melda (Ford) Scott. Before retiring, Ken was employed as the director of commercial research by PPG Industries. He was a graduate of the Virginia Military Institute and the University of Pittsburgh, where he earned his Master of Business Administration degree. Ken was an Army veteran. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, horses, boating and spending time with his family. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his beloved first wife, Linda Lee (Lederer) Scott; sister, Melda Lee (Scott) Duxbury; brother, John E. Scott Jr.; sister-in-law, Jean Scott; and brother-in-law, John Duxbury. Ken will be greatly missed by his loving family. He is survived by his beloved second wife, with whom he shared many special moments, much happiness and wonderful adventures in his later years, Wanda Scott; daughter, Kimberly Scott-Carl and her husband, Jeff; son, Kenneth R. Scott Jr. and his wife, Melanie; brother, Jim Scott and his wife, Peggy; and a number of nieces and nephews. Ken will be especially missed by his grandchildren, Kaitlin and Hannah Carl, both of whom he was very proud. Family and friends will be received from 2-4 and 6-8 p.m. Thursday at the VAIA Funeral Home Inc., 463 Athena Drive, Delmont, (724) 468-1177. Funeral and committal services for Ken will be conducted at 11 a.m. Friday in the funeral home with the Rev. Marnie Silbert of Newlonsburg Presbyterian Church officiating.

Military honors accorded by Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 33 Honor Guard, Greensburg, will follow services. To send online expressions

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes AFROTC commander. Welcome to the fourth of sympathy, and obtain grief support informa- many more birthdays.

On April 5, the 2018 the Capt. Paul M. Bayliss presentation of the Capt. Paul M. Bayliss 1960 tion or directions, please visit www.VaiaFuneralHome.com.” Each of you can make a memorial 1960 Memorial Scholarship was presented to Ca- Memorial Scholarship. In attendance today, we gift in Ken’s name to the charity of your choice. A det Charles Remig ’19, a 2nd Class cadet in Air have some distinguished guests that I would like gift to VMI in his memory would be wonderful.

Force ROTC. The following statement was made to specifically recognize: Captain Bayliss’ wife, I wished Jim Tumlinson happy birthday over by Col. Steve Biggs: “Good afternoon, I am Col. Reba; multiple members of the class of 1960; and the phone Feb. 28. He and Sue are in Melrose, Steve Biggs, VMI professor of air science and brother rats to Captain Bayliss. It is through all of their kind generosity and desire to honor Florida, a place they stay during Janutheir fallen brother rat that we have the opary, February and March. They then return to Pennsylvania State University portunity to present this scholarship. where, as a professor for nine months, he The freedoms we enjoy today are because teaches the chemistry of insect ecology, of the sacrifices of those that came before a subject certainly out of my wheelhouse us. Today’s presentation gives us an oppordespite my being a chemistry major. He tunity to remember a VMI alumnus, a pahas four graduate students under his triot and an airman who made the ultimate wing. He is a full-time professor. Jim is sacrifice for his country and to recognize just as outstanding in his later years as he a high performing future officer who has was at VMI! I miss seeing him. demonstrated the desire and capability to I spoke with Jimmie Seeley March 7, a follow in the footsteps of Captain Bayliss. day after his birthday. He was celebrated “Paul Martin Bayliss matriculated to all over Facebook. He had a good day.

VMI from Alexandria, Virginia, in 1956.

I tried to speak with Brad Lampshire Known as ‘Eagle’ by his brother rats, he March 7, a day after his birthday, but persevered as a private throughout his cacould only leave a voicemail. I wish them detship. He graduated in 1960 with a deClass of 1960: On the steps of Preston Library with Cadet both many more birthdays.

Charles Remig ’19, 2018 Capt. Paul M. Bayliss 1960 Memorial gree in civil engineering and a commission On March 21, I tried to call Ridge Scholarship recipient, were Reba Bayliss, Remig, Bob and in the United States Air Force. Beginning in Parks, but the number we have is no Lucy Clay, Jim Pittman, Bolling and Theresa Williamson, Jim 1962, he served as an instructor pilot flying longer in service. We wish him well and and Suzie O’Dell, Tom and Barbara Daniel, Hap and Mary Mill- the T-37, T-33 and T-38 before he joined the er, Jimbo and Ruth Smith, Herb Vaughan, Howard and Susan many more birthdays.

606th Air Commando Squadron and flew Moss, G.G. and Frances Phillips, and Ed Tolley.

On April 5, I called Dave Maddox T-28s modified for the ground-attack misand left his birthday message on his voicemail, sion against the Ho Chi Minh Trail. He was killed as well as by email. We wish good health and in action in November 1966. Among his decorations are the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Purple Heart Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, the Vietnam Campaign Medal and the Vietnamese Gallantry Cross Unit Citation.

“During his cadetship, Paul Bayliss was goodnatured, enthusiastic and fun-loving yet a hard worker and a bit mischievous. He was the type of cadet who made life at VMI bearable for those around him. Members of the Class of 1960 chose to honor Eagle for his sacrificial service to his country and for the special memory of their days with him in barracks. By doing so, they not only honor the sacrifice of Captain Bayliss and all other VMI alumni killed in action while flying with the Air Force, they also recognize cadets who are entering the demanding field of military aviaClass of 1960: Mrs. Reba Bayliss with Cadet Tristan Silverstorf ’18, the 2017 Class of 1960: Mrs. Reba Bayliss and Cation, and encourage these young people to become recipient of the Capt. Paul M. Bayliss det Charles Remig ’19, the 2018 recipient leaders in the Air Force.

1960 Memorial Scholarship, and Cadet of the Capt. Paul M. Bayliss 1960 Memo“First given in 2015, this scholarship assists VMI Charles Remig ’19, the 2018 recipient. rial Scholarship. cadets who are pursuing a commission in the Air

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Class Notes

Class of 1960: Mark Markland, left, and Ed Tolley on Mark’s 80th birthday.

Force in a rated career field. This year’s recipient is Cadet Charles Remig [’19]. Cadet Remig is in his 2nd Class year and has been awarded a remotely piloted aircraft slot. He recently had Lasik and is hopeful that he will be able to pick up a pilot slot.

He has always dreamed of flying. A computer science major and the informal barracks information technology specialist – and, as I understand it, answers desperate calls of help when other cadets can’t connect their xbox to the network and other crises – Cadet Remig has demonstrated success in the Corps and within the ROTC cadet wing. Within the Corps, he has been a corporal, a sergeant and held cadre positions in the remedial PT program and Rat Challenge. Within ROTC, he is the wing executive officer, has been an assistant flight commander and is the recipient of the Daughters of 1812 Award for leadership, military discipline, dependability and patriotism.

“Mrs. Bayliss, if you could please come up and present the citation to Cadet Remig. Cadet Remig, the floor is yours. ... Ladies and gentlemen, thank you again for attending today. This ends the official portion of the presentation. Cadet Remig will stay for a while if you would like to talk with him.”

Cadet Remig accepted the award and made a statement expressing sincere gratitude, not only for the award, but also for Eagle’s contribution during the Vietnam War. In addition to Mrs. Reba Bayliss and her friend, Mrs. Linda Howell, our brother rats attending the ceremony were Bob and Lucy Clay, Eagle’s roommate; Bolling and Theresa Williamson; G.G. and Frances Phillips; Howard and Susan Moss; Herb and Terry Vaughan; Hap and Mary Miller; Jim and Suzie O’Dell, Tom and Barbara Daniel; Jimbo and Ruth Smith; Ed Tolley; and Jim Pittman.

Buddy Bryan ’71, VMI Foundation chief operating officer, was also present. This year’s award was $8,000. The current market value of the scholarship, due to our class’ generous

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contributions is $280,000. Buddy informed me that next year, the estimated award will be $10,000. Many of our brother rats have continued to make contributions to the scholarship. It is notable that all of the collections from the sale of Howard Moss’ book, “Kiss the Talisman,” go to the scholarship fund. Bolling Williamson has dedicated his monumental book, “On the Field of Honor,” to Eagle. Bolling has designated that of the proceeds from the sale of the book are also to go to the scholarship fund after the initial cost of its publication is met.

On April 12, I left a birthday message to Wayne LeBlang on his voicemail as I was unable to speak with him. We wish Wayne good health, safety and many more birthdays.

On April 12, Darryl “Mark” Markland turned 80 and had a surprise visit from Ed Tolley. He was rewarded with a trip back to VMI for the first time since graduation. He wrote: “It was my 80th, and a fantastic surprise one, at that – including a trip back to the Institute for the first time since graduation. Phone number is 210-416-3757, Georgetown, Texas. Thanks for the wishes.” On April 18, Bill “Peanuts” Elliott started the day in the dentist chair. I was able to speak with his delightful wife, Jan. Peanuts, like most of us, has “married up.”

He called me back allowing me to wish him a happy birthday and many more.

On April 21, Jack Horgan celebrated his 80th in St. Lucia. I spoke with him a few days later. Jack is the healthiest of all of our brother rats – biking, jogging and staying fit as a fiddle.

On April 26, Dick Evans, George Salaita and Otis Pool celebrated birthdays. I was unable to speak with Dick or George, but they got birthday emails. Otis celebrated his day with a party in Vero Beach, Florida, his and Arlene’s winter home. Otis

is recovering nicely from cardiac surgery.

On April 29, I spoke with Jim Greathead in Colorado, giving him birthday wishes. Also April 29, Vaughn Foxwell enjoyed his birthday in Washington visiting his children. I got an email from Vaughn saying he was ready to get back to his farm in Maryland to plant soybeans.

From April 30 through May 3, Jimbo and Ruth Smith, Bill “Peanuts” and Jan Elliott, Jim and Suzie O’Dell, Jack and Anneliese Willard, G.G. and Frances Phillips, Henry and Linda Brown, Otis and Arlene Pool, Joe and Ella Sisler, and Jack Seamon gathered at Talamore Golf Resort in Southern Pines, North Carolina, to play golf, socialize and tell old lies. We played golf for two days at Talamore and Mid-South courses with the organizer of the outing winning money on both days. What can I say?

On May 2, we celebrated the birthday of my wife, Ruth, in a high-class sports bar, the Hickory Tavern. The birthday cake was delicious.

On May 3, Joe Sisler and I punished ourselves with a round at the Mid Pines Golf Club. The Donald Ross greens “ate our lunch.”

John Hilliard had his 80th birthday May 8. I spoke with John the next day. John continues to give tours of the launching facility on the Space Coast in Florida, both to the public and media during launches. Other than some ankle problems, all is well with John.

I received an awfully nice phone call from Ray Crickenberger May 10. Ray was enjoying time with his family at the beach in Hilton Head, South Carolina. Ray and Terri moved from Greenville, North Carolina, bought a 30-year-old house and plan to renovate only the first floor. The hurricane changed their plan, as water damage resulted in the redoing the entire house. Ray related that he

Class of 1960: At Talamore Resort in Pinehurst, North Carolina, for golf were Jimbo and Ruth Smith, Jack Seamon, Jack and Annalise Willard, G.G. and Francis Phillips, Suzie O’Dell, Ella and Joe Sisler, Jim O’Dell, Henry Brown, Otis and Arlene Pool, Linda Brown, and Jan and Peanuts Elliott. Ruth’s birthday was also celebrated.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and Terri are “living the dream.”

On May 11, I tried to catch cup with Bobby Graves in Pensacola, Florida, but was unable to speak with him. The reverend got an email birthday wish.

On May 12, Bolling Williamson was in St. Louis visiting children and grandchildren. He called me two days later to report in. Bolling is the “old man” in our group, having turned 81 years. He sure is well preserved. As you all know, Bolling’s book, “On the Field Of Honor,” is truly monumental. This has been a herculean seven-year effort. By now, you all have received G.G. Phillip’s letter requesting that we, as a class, pitch in and support the effort with contributions to the VMI Foundation to cover their cost of publication. The book will make a wonderful, memorable gift to someone you care about.

This brings this edition of our class notes to a close. I’m always reminded that it is a privilege to serve as your class agent. Please stay in touch.

Please support our VMI. Please support our class’ legacy, Capt. Paul M. Bayliss 1960 Memorial Scholarship, and Bolling Williamson’s book. Stay healthy, safe and in touch.

In the spirit, Jimbo

1961

Sal Vitale Jr.

As mentioned in the last Review, the Williamsburg class luncheon in February was a success. I received thank you notes from the widows who were our guests, and they enjoyed being with us.

Hopefully we will do it again in 2019. On Valentine’s Day, Sue and I, along with Bill and Joyce Gibbings, were with Dave and Charlotte Harbach at their home in Herndon, Virginia. Many years ago, the six of us and several other BR and spouses gathered for Valentine’s Day, and we had a blast.

Now that we are older and wiser, we spent the evening reminiscing, sober and reserved. March was Florida month. We left Virginia Beach March 1 and drove to Clearwater on Florida’s west coast to visit my 90-year-old cousin, Rosalie (who looks like she may be 65). Rosalie cooked all my favorite dishes, and I did not want to leave. Then we went to Venice and visited with John and Linda Moore.

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John signed our class flag, and all things considered, he is doing well. John Rudibaugh has a condo in Punta Gorda, and we planned to see John and Doris, but John was at the physical therapist and would not be home for hours so we moved on.

In Naples, we stayed with Andy and Peggy Myruski. Peggy showed Sue how to create gifts from sea shells, and the two spent many hours together creating gifts. Sue and I were very pleased that we had a chance to be with Jack and Nancy Bell, Hill and Heather Browning, Dave and Jude Elliott, Andy and Peggy Myruski, and Ray and Sally Hanlein (visiting from Arlington). We had a grand time. The first night, we had dinner at Cracklin’ Jack’s, a unique restaurant, and the second evening at my favorite place, Gino’s Trattoria Per Tutti. Dave Elliott looked like he never fell off the roof. His back was straight and his gait strong.

Jack Bell says his radiation treatments have not stopped him from playing golf. The weather was not kind to us while we were in Naples, and Hill Browning had to cancel a boat trip he planned because the wind was blowing 25 knots. Hershel Murray and Pete Roberts were not able to join us either night. Then it was off to Vero Beach to visit with a cousin and catch up with Jim Cranford and Bill Eubank. Jim is not doing well, and I only spoke to Carol. I enjoyed meeting Bill Eubank’s wife, Charlene. Bill is a Civil War collector and history buff and also reloads for his own shooting pleasure and both are doing well. From Vero, we headed to Amelia Island to play golf. Clayton Smith did an outstanding job arranging golf, cocktails at the Hampton Inn and three wonderful

restaurants for our evening dinners. Weather was a little on the chilly side, but being with classmates and spouses kept things lively and warm. Jim Bickford conducted his painting class, and Mary Callander, Sue Vitale and I painted a boat scene.

It was nice to see Charlie and Margie Finnigan and Jeff Barg. Both BRs signed the class flag. The golf course was excellent, and we had enough people for five foursomes: Bob Polk, Charlie Finnegan, Warren Copenhaver, Lee Crow, Spike Callander, Henry Huntsberry, Ray Hanlein, Di Stone, Stu Crow, Dick Stone, Robert Williamson, Sally Hanlein, Clayton Smith, Bob Burks, Don Rishell, Sue Vitale, Jim Bickford, George Henning and Sal Vitale. In addition to the brother rats and wives who played golf, the following were also in attendance: Harrison and Terry Fridley, Margie Finnigan, Bronnie Polk, Kathy Copenhaver, Mary Callander, Brenda Huntsberry, Pat Williamson, Blair Bickford, Jeannie Burks and Edna Henning. The ladies did a lot of shopping.

Ann Rishell had to cancel due to a medical issue.

As luck would have it, I had a teeth-rattling experience at 4 a.m. on the day we were leaving Amelia Island and did not know why. By 8 a.m. I was OK, and we decided to drive to The Villages to be with the Copenhavers rather than go home. When we arrived at Copenhavers’ house, Warren said I did not look good and took me to urgent care. The PA on duty inserted IVs and said I may have pneumonia and to return the next day for X-rays. We returned to the Copenhavers’. At 4 a.m. the next morning, March 17, the shakes, chills, etc. returned, and by 8 a.m., I was burning up. Warren

Class of 1961: Jack Bell, Nancy Bell, Sally Hanlein, Peggy Myruski, Sue Vitale, Jude Elliott, Ray Hanlein, Andy Myruski, Heather Browning, Dave Elliott, Hill Browning and Sal Vitale gathered for dinner at Gino’s Trattoria per Tutti March 9, 2018.

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Class Notes called the rescue, and they took me to Leesburg and parking was no problem. Bill and Wendy out- or grocery shopping but were in fact about advenRegional Medical Center about 30 minutes from did our wildest expectations, and John Wiggins; tures and great, wonderful fun in France, Italy, The Villages. My temperature was 105.8, and I Carl and Becky Hirsch; Bill and Jane Hill; J.C. Korea, Belgium, Vietnam and elsewhere, left me don’t remember much. I ended up on the cardiac Tharrington; Spike and Mary Callander; Ed feeling a bit like a hermit. But they also left me in care floor, because the doctors were concerned Doleman; and Sal and his daughter, Cathy, en- awe of how fantastically varied our lives’ paths that the high temperature may have injured my joyed a wonderful afternoon. (Sue was caring for have been, yet the bonds of a brotherhood survive new heart valve. I had bacterial pneumonia and a our daughter, Barbara). The poached fresh salmon all the strains of time and distance those anecdotes lot of IVs. Sue and the Copenhavers missed the St. with garnishes, including capers and egg slices, represent. In the midst of people I’ve seldom seen Patrick’s Day party that evening, and unfortunate- was to die for. Ed Doleman missed the last two in years, I believe I felt less alone than I have in ly, all the other events that were planned for us reunions, so for him, this was an enjoyable mini years.” (Ed Doleman signed the class flag). The reunion. Ed said, “Listening to the stories so casu- boat marina that John Wiggins stayed at in Floriwere canceled. A special thanks to Warren Copenhaver, George Henning and Bobby Burks for ally tossed out as if the BRs were mowing the lawn da during the winter was wiped out. John was taking Sue back and forth to the hospilucky that he was not in Florida this year, and his boat was moored in tal. I did not feel strong enough to Maryland. Bill Braithwaite is still drive, so to be on the safe side, my teaching at St. John’s College in Andaughter, Lynn, flew down to Orlando from Baltimore to drive us home. On napolis. This year, he is teaching art March 23 at 4:30 p.m., I was released and music. Bill Hill is retired from law, from the hospital and Sue, Lynn and I and Carl Hirsch is still a good storyleft for home. We arrived in Virginia teller. Mary Callander had us laughing Beach the next day at about 8 p.m. when she told stories about meeting Some vacation! April was a busy her Irish relatives for the first time. J.C. month for me. Sue and I, along with Tharrington is the class keeper of inmy grandson, Jackson Cross, attended formation on where our BRs are burthe scholarship lunch and Legacy Day ied at Arlington. My daughter, Cathy, activities at VMI. The ’61 Scholarship was selected as one of the Maryland’s is being used by Cadet Tyler DeJoe Top 100 Women. The women recog’18, an international studies major nized are high-achieving Maryland from Brocton, New York. Tyler was women who are making an impact commissioned in May as an Air Force through their leadership, community combat system officer. Gates and Marservice and mentoring. Tim and Sandy Bryant were supposed to be at lunch, garet Richards were at the scholarship but Tim was in the emergency room lunch. Their scholarships support with a swollen leg. Thank God it was three female cadets. More than 150 not a clot. In early May, Sue and I were kids of all ages attended Legacy Day in off to James Madison University for addition to parents and grandparents. the graduation of our granddaughter, We met Hugh Gouldthorpe and his Victoria Cross. Victoria signed a congrandson and Larry Wetsel and his three granddaughters. The activities tract with City Corp, an arm of Ameriwere in the new Corps Physical TrainCorps, and will teach children in low income areas in Baton Rouge, Louisiing Facility, and the events like rock climbing, cargo net boarding and other ana. We are very fortunate that Bill activities were very well supervised.

Haeberlein is only one hour away, and The kids had a ball. Then we were off his two daughters live in Baton Rouge, to Maryland for a luncheon hosted by so Victoria has support if needed. Now Bill and Wendy Braithwaite at their for the class news! home in Annapolis. The lunch was Class of 1961: Gathered for a golf outing at the Hampton Inn in Robert and Patricia Williamson Amelia Island, Florida, were Bob Polk, Warren Copenhaver, Lee originally planned for a restaurant, but enjoyed their Viking river trip from Crow, Spike Callander, Henry Huntsberry, Ray Hanlein, Di Stone, Bill convinced me that his home was Stu Crow, Dick Stone, Robert Williamson, Sally Hanlein, Clayton Budapest to Bucharest. Accommo“quieter than Ram’s Head, the ambi- Smith, Jeff Barg, Bob Burks, Don Rishell, Sue Vitale, Jim Bickford, dations were wonderful and the food ence will be superior, the food and ser- George Henning, Sal Vitale, Harrison Fridley, Terry Fridley, Bronnie and activities great. The Williamsons Polk, Kathy Copenhaver, Mary Callander, Brenda Huntsberry, Pat have volunteered to host the VMI 1961 vice excellent.” Bill engaged one of his Williamson, Blair Bickford, Jeannie Burks and Edna Henning. tailgate party for the VMI versus Old military-veteran students as wait staff,

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Dominion University football game in November. It has been many years since we gathered at Robert’s house, just a block from the stadium, and we plan to make it a memorable event.

The football tickets will be in demand, so call the ticket office when you read this. For details, call Robert at (757) 489-8991.

Larry and Joanne Respess took a four-week trip to New Zealand and Australia. They spent three weeks in New Zealand visiting their daughter and her husband, who is the U.S. defense attaché at the U.S. embassy in Wellington. In New Zealand, Larry hiked the Milford Track, a famous hiking 34-mile long route at the southern end of the South Island. During the second day of the hike, it rained a torrent all day, was very cold and the wind reached about 50 mph at McKinnon Pass, the high point. On the hike, Larry met a lot of very nice and interesting people, particularly a group of six businessmen from Melbourne and Sydney. One of them entertained Larry and Joanne for dinner in Melbourne and two others for dinner in Sydney.

They had a great time sightseeing in both countries. For the past 10 years, Shirley Hartford has devoted her life to care of cats, and the local newspaper, the Auburn Journal, featured and an article on the work Shirley has done.

Now she needs to retire. Lynn Hartford’s grandson, Matt, is considering VMI and plans to visit there this summer. Willard Hoskins’ oldest grandson received acceptances from VMI and VPI. However, VMI’s business department was full, so admissions sent him an acceptance into applied math.

Virginia Tech accepted him into the Pamplin School of Business, and the ROTC department offered him an $8,800 scholarship. He wavered for a while but decided to attend Virginia Tech. Geraldine Nicholas had a foot of snow in her yard when she left Virginia for two weeks in sunny Miami. However, Miami residents wore sweaters and the temperature

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Class of 1961: Hill Browning, Bill Hala, Irene (Bill Hala’s friend), Heather Browning, Peggy Myruski and Andy Myruski met for lunch at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar and Grille in Fort Myers Beach, Florida.

Class of 1961: Hill Browning, Heather Browning, Peggy Myruski, Andy Myruski, Nancy Bell, Jack Bell, Dickey Stone and Di Stone gathered for dinner at the Brick Top Restaurant in Naples, Florida, March 18, 2018.

Class of 1961: On April 21, 2018, Bill Braithwhite held a gathering in his Annapolis, Maryland, home. Those gathered for lunch included, from left, John “J.C.” Tharrington, Sal Vitale, Braithwaite, Carl Hirsch, Bill Hill, Spike Callander and Ed Doleman.

was cool. Joe Lisiecki said they had 15-plus inches of snow over a nine day period of continuous measurable snow fall and with arctic temperatures.

It was the longest continuous cold period since 1902. While Joe was freezing, Gaylia Hudgins spent February in Hawaii hiking and then will be in Jackson Hole for the summer. Laura Ward, George’s wife, truly enjoyed the flowers sent for George’s funeral and hopes someday to meet a few of us. At of the submittal of these notes, Jo Ann DiBella has not received a date from Arlington for Jim’s interment. Roger Suiter is doing OK. He especially enjoyed the article on Kenner Rice, who he said deserved the awards. Kenner is still working at NIH. I have heard many stories about how Ken “Rabbit” Patrick earned his nickname. Bob Coltrane dyked in the same room as Kenton during our rat year, and he has a different version of how “the Rabbit” acquired his nickname. “Whenever Kenton became excited (which occurred frequently), his nose would twitch, so our dykes started calling him ‘Rabbit.’” Bob said the three upperclassmen in the rooms were G.R. Schell ’58, Gene Grayson ’58 and Marty Fisher ’55. Marty Caples sends out emails on subjects he feels we need to be up speed on. Recently, we learned a little about his family roots, and he told a fascinating story. In 1868, greatgrandfather Caples brought his family to America from Ireland, and his son, Marty’s grandfather, was three years old. They settled in Boston, where great-grandfather supported the family by pushing his cart around town sharpening knives and scissors. Grandfather Caples obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from MIT and had a career of designing and constructing railroads worldwide. Immigrants had to work for everything, so Marty didn’t know how they paid for a MIT education, as there were no giveaways back then. Grandfather Caples designed and supervised the construction of the railroad to allow 100-car

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Class Notes coal trains to travel from Kentucky to the port in South Carolina while crossing the Appalachian Mountains. For a train with 100 cars loaded with coal climbing the mountains, grade and alignment of the railroad track is supercritical. Larry Wetsel said they still used that railroad when he was working with Norfolk Western. In 1978, while on R&R from Marty’s Saudi Arabia project, his aunt handed him his grandfather’s diary written on a sea bound trip to Columbia, South America, to oversee design and construction of a railroad to haul coal. In 1982, Marty was transferred to Columbia to supervise construction and operation of a coal mine, which included 120km of railroad to the coast and ship loading facilities. This was his grandfather’s railroad, and the El Cerrejon-Zona Norte mine is still in successful operation. In early February, Tom and Barbara Phlegar took a sevenday cruise to the Western Caribbean: Jamaica, Grand Cayman and the Bahamas. In Jamaica, Tom convinced Barbara to go whitewater tubing (yes, with an inner tube), down a river coming out of the mountains. Unfortunately, Tom lost his waterproof camera and doesn’t have any pictures. In the Bahamas, they went parasailing behind a boat pulling a parachute rising about 400 feet and enjoyed every minute of it. Tom recommends that event for everyone. Back in Charlotte, Tom’s chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution hosted President Thomas Jefferson (Bill Barker from Williamsburg) for a gala evening with more than 250 people in attendance. Tom was the coordinator, programmer, host and everything else, and it resulted in an evening that will not be forgotten.

Gerry Eubank completed his move to Lake Keowee in Salem, South Carolina. Gerry is still waiting for the date his son will receive his brigadier general star. Howard Dyer is back on the tennis trail and his knee is 100 percent. Howard is playing four times a week and is ready to play all those who think they can beat him. Wyatt Durrette changed the firm name with the addition of a new member. The firm name is now Durrette, Arkema, Gerson and Gill. Wyatt’s recent Virginia Supreme Court legal case was covered by Jeff Schapiro in the Richmond Times-Dispatch metro section. The appeal to the court deals with redistricting, and Wyatt represents a group that is challenging the districts as hyper-partisan gerrymandering. This appeal is being closely watched, as it impacts 11 legislative seats. Also in the news was Irv Wells.

The TV interview focused on the unsolved 30-yearold Colonial Parkway murders that happen during

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Irv’s tenure as FBI special agent in charge of the Norfolk office. Irv remembers, “We mobilized the entire office, and we worked what we called ‘a special,’ where essentially every resource in the office was devoted to the investigation.” On a lighter note, many months ago, Irv ordered a gospel book holder to present to his church “in loving memory of Sue Summerson Wells.” The blessing and dedication of the Bible cover/holder was on Easter Sunday at the early service Sue and Irv attended. Sue never wanted notoriety, so this was the perfect gift to the church in her memory. Pete Roberts sees Hill and Heather Browning often for vacations in St. Maarten, dinners out and trivia night at the club. Pete is in the Bonita Bay Cruise Club, as is Hill Browning. Pete and Carol were in Key West and had lunch with George and Edna Henning. George and Pete are from Roanoke, and they roomed together. Pete says they are living the dream in Florida! Mitch and Jennifer Kot are home from Vietnam. Mitch said the trip was successful, and the business students he visited were very pleased to see them both. During their trip, they went to Dubai and stayed at one of the classy hotels. Mitch said the city was unbelievably nice.

Bill Hala vacationed in Florida and enjoyed being with Hill Browning and Andy Myruski in Bonita Springs. They boated over to Doc Ford’s at Fort Myers Beach. Myruski and Hala have known each other since fifth grade, 69 years, and roomed together with Dave Bella all four years. On March 30, Bill and Irene were scheduled to take the Auto Train north but the train was canceled due to a derailment of the southbound train the previous night near Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Several vehicle cars derailed but no passenger cars. They had to join the stop and go I-95 north. Ray and Sally Hanlein had a similar experience with the Auto Train south. When they arrived in Lorton to load up, they were advised that the train was canceled due to a derailment and power shortages somewhere in North Carolina or South Carolina. The Hanleins had to drive both ways and were able to gather for events in Naples as well as Amelia Island, and when they returned home, Ray had his knee replaced. As of these notes Ray has “cast off his walker and is going solo with the cane. What freedom!” Dick and Dianne Stone also were in Naples and Amelia Island. I wonder if the Naples brother rats are tiring from all the visits (smile). Dick Stone was not able to get a golf/ social package worked out for early May in Southport. They hope to work out a time period that is

good for most and again host the event. Dick looks the best I have seen him in the past few years, and he and Di have been playing golf with a scramble group now that the weather is better. Battle Haslam and grandson Wynn Haslam ’17 enjoyed a fascinating visit to Hawk Manor Falconry in Lillington, North Carolina, 60 miles south of Chapel Hill. Hawk Manor presents a highly educational program on birds of prey from ancient history to physiology. Wynn had to drive 250 miles from near Asheville for the experience, and Battle asked Wynn to figure his driving time so they would try to arrive at the falconry location around the same time. When Battle was only 2 miles away, his phone rang: Wynn was there! There’s a lot of VMI in that young man – the fourth generation of Haslams to go through the Institute. After five months of teaching sessions, Battle was confirmed and joined the Episcopal Church April 22 at the Chapel of the Cross in Chapel Hill. Battle has now belatedly decided to learn more about Christianity and the evolution of the church. Confirmation is a part of that process. I talked to Paul Goldman. He and Rae will be coming east in October, and we plan to get together.

Nelle Gouldthorpe has been to hell and back.

She spent 21 days in the hospital on a feeding tube and clear liquid diet. Hugh and Nelle are staying at their home on Fripp Island for recovery time, and Nelle remained on the feeding tube for several more weeks in order to allow her stomach and pancreas to rest and heal. As these notes were being prepared, she is off the feeding tube completely and on a low-fat, regular diet. However, Nelle will never eat Jello again. She is getting stronger each day and walking to rebuild her strength. Turtle patrol started mid-May, and Nelle planned to be walking patrol for her beloved Loggerhead turtles on Fripp and Pritchard Islands. Hershel Murray is back in Naples from his operation in Tampa.

The surgery was complex, and three world class surgeons participated, not counting two for anesthesia. For almost two years, Hershel has not been able eat and swallow properly; therefore, he continually lost both weight and muscle mass, which affected his cardiovascular health and his ability to combat the demands of Parkinson’s disease. Hershel’s esophagus was essentially rebuilt from top to bottom, and he could not be more pleased with the predicted results. He is up and about with what he hopes will be a “new lease on life.” John “J.C.” Miller missed Amelia Island due to a long overdue hip replacement. He recovered and is playing

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes golf. Bette Miller has been considering a corneal transplant for years, and in May, she had it done.

John Miller, Rhett Clarkson, Clayton Smith and Jud McLester rented a house together in Augusta for the Masters Tournament and had great fun.

Lee and Betsey Badgett are still in Colorado. They are trying to finish up their scheduled doctor visits.

By the time you read this, Spike Callander and his committee will notify you about a 1961 golf outing in Williamsburg Sept. 10-13, 2018. The golf course is the Jamestown Course at Williamsburg National, which is friendly to old folks. It is hoped that the location will draw a large turnout.

The Olde Mill Golf outing in Hillsville was canceled for 2018.

Consider joining us for the class cruise to New England and Canada Oct. 3-12, 2019. The ship selected, Grandeur of the Seas, is a small ship, which means it will be easy to get around for those like me who have a problem with mobility. As of February 2018, we have eight cabins reserved, which translates to one freebie fare to be split among those attending. The 16th person goes free. It is not too late to sign up and join us. For details, contact Tom Phlegar at (704) 535-2154, (704) 776-8166 or btphlegar@aol.com or me.

The Institute Society Dinner will be held Nov. 9. I hope we have a large turnout. We have been dwindling in attendance in recent years. The dinners are good.

I am sorry to inform you that Brother Rat Robert E. Lee Huddle III died April 9, 2018. According to the Virginia State Police, his car was driving southbound on Virginia 787 in Floyd County when the car veered off the road and down an embankment, overturning before coming to a stop upright in a stream. The wreck happened around 8:30 p.m., and a passerby spotted the car early the next morning. I have not been able to find out much about arrangements, but Barry Orndorff was able to talk to Bob’s friend, BeeGee. Bob was cremated, and the family plans to spread his ashes in Wytheville County at his parent’s gravesite and at the grave of his first wife, Margaret, in Raleigh. A memorial service may be held in the future at the Indian Valley Presbyterian Church. What I remember about Bob was his love for running. He was captain of the cross-country team that had a 9-1 record and won the Southern Conference and the state AAUI championships. You may remember that iconic picture of Bob, Larry Williams and Bill Braithwaite crossing the finish line at the College of William & Mary meet in a three-way tie for second

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place. May Bob’s soul rest in peace.

I have reached my page limit. Sorry if I missed writing about something you told me. I pray every night that God takes care of you and me, VMI and the USA. Stay in touch.

1962

Monty Williams Jerry Burnett

Mother Nature played an April fool’s joke on us as it is the middle of April and it still feels like February. So much for global warming. Hopefully spring will arrive by the time I submit these notes.

Burial with full military honors for retired U.S. Army Col. Jerry Wagner was held April 11, 2018, at Arlington National Cemetery. A celebration of life reception was held at the Fort Myer Patton Hall and Spates Community Club following the service. Brother rats in attendance were Lewis Graybill, Mark Graybill, Gary Gilmore, Columbus Cartwright, Wayne Pacine, John Anthony, Joe Roberts, Len Collins, Bob Miller, Dennis Merklinger, John Cummings and Doug Marechal. Doug reported that it was a good day for Jerry’s family and a fitting tribute for a fallen hero and brother rat.

John Anthony and Cynthia hosted Columbus Cartwright and Phyllis and Robert Hashenspiel ’76 and his wife at their home in the nation’s capital, where the six of them had an enjoyable evening and dinner. In addition, in early May, he and Cynthia, together with Robert Evans and Beverly; Jack Carles and Linda; and Bonny, the widow of Bill Sydnor, spent a delightful three-day weekend at a rural retreat near Chestertown, Maryland.

Jerry Burnett is no longer in private practice and is working with DermOne Dermatology in Southport, North Carolina. He commutes from South Boston, Virginia, during the week and returns to South Boston on the weekends.

In September, he and Joy went to the Streamsong Golf Resort in Florida. They ran into

Dick Stone ’61 and Marc Mueller ’92 at the Wilmington, North Carolina, airport. Jerry played in a National Ryder Cup golf tourney and shot five over par in his last match on the tough, new north course at Streamsong. At Thanksgiving 2017, he and Joy went to Costa Rica for 10 days and while there did some zip lining over the rain forest, as well as taking in all the beautiful Pacific Ocean sites. He still enjoys good health, golf and working at his tree and wildlife preserve. He has no plans to retire since he loves his work and all the things he and Joy do. His bird dog is getting old, but they enjoy quail and duck hunting. The grandchildren enjoy four-wheeling on the 60 miles of trails at the preserve. They spent some time in Arizona in February.

Bruce Seiling reported that he and Sheila are doing well. Their oldest son is an Air Force colonel assigned to the Pentagon, and their youngest son is an Air Force major on the Allied Air Command staff in Germany. Their middle son is architectural software sales manager in Atlanta for a small firm and he does house watercolor renderings as a side business.

He said the sad news is that Per Madsen is now living in an assisted living facility waiting for a room at a Veterans Affairs facility. Per has not had good health in recent years and suffered the death of his wife in 2016.

Jim Cox and Judith spend the spring and summer in Friday Harbor, Washington, where it is very beautiful with great weather and community spirit. They have been spending most of the winter in San Diego, California, but are unsure how much longer they can maintain the property and pace. Last year they enjoyed a 30-day cruise from Athens around the Mediterranean and finishing in Ft. Lauderdale. The highlight was three days spent in Israel, which was a lifelong bucket list item. This May, they are going again (on the same ship, the MS Prinsendam) for a 14-day trip from Ft. Lauderdale to Dover, Great Britain. The highlight of this trip will be a day excursion to the beaches of Normandy (another bucket list item). Except for the ravages of older age which we all are bound to suffer, they are doing OK. He is still able to fly his Bonanza around up in the Northwest. Last spring, they took an 8,500-mile motor trip across the U.S. to attend their reunion in Florida. They took the southern route to San Diego, California, and stayed for a week and

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Class Notes then back to Friday Harbor, Washington.

1. At 0500 April 2, he left for Myrtle Beach, South John Shelhorse says all’s well in Richmond and Carolina, with a group of 12 for a week of golf.

Manakin-Sabot. Bonnie is recovering from rotator The weather was great for first three days, cold cuff surgery that will keep her off the golf course the fourth and fifth days, and he got back late for a few more months. He completed his 10th Saturday. It was a lot of golf in light of the winter year as senior clerk for the House Appropriations weather, but the trip was a lot of fun.

Committee during the General Assembly session I reported in the 2017-Issue 3 Alumni Review that includes a very well done annual reception that John Anthony had been appointed by Sen. hosted by Brother Rat Peay and staff. He says the Pat Roberts, former Sen. Bob Dole, and retired Corps showed very well for the inauguration pa- Gen. P.X. Kelley to the Eisenhower Memorade of Gov. Northam ’81. rial Commission. At the end of the memorial’s Ware Smith and Belle spent some time in Bar- groundbreaking in the center of the nation’s capibados just cooling out, swimming, strolling on the tal recently, Mac Thornberry, House of Represenbeach, paddle boarding, playing tennis and drink- tatives Armed Services Committee chairman, reing lots of rum. marked to a group of attendees: “Doctor Anthony In mid-March, the Judy Nicholson Kidney Can- introduced me to the Middle East. I was part of cer Foundation (jnfkidneycancer.org), in Jacksonville, Florida, concluded a Kidney Cancer Educational Symposium in support of patients, survivors and caregivers, with speakers coming from as far away as Canada. Nick Nicholson started the foundation after his wife, Judy, lost her battle with the disease. He realized during their journey that they were very much alone.

Upon Judy’s death, Nick wanted to create opportunities for family, patients and caregivers to have resources to better navigate through the illness at various stages. Amongst the foundation board of directors are George Mayforth ’82 and Hunt Ozmer ’76, who are key members of the team respon- Class of 1962: Dan Prall saw the 2017 eclipse. sible for the outstanding event. The foundation is dedicated to furthering awareness and education, providing support and funding research for renal cancers. The foundation serves as an advocate on behalf of patients in the United States and globally.

Joe Weakley advised that Theresa retired from teaching and is doing pretty well adjusting to retirement. She still has two steel pan groups, gives lessons on guitar, flute and keyboard, and she is involved with playing in three music groups. He still chases the little white ball around the golf course.

In early April, he went in for a transesophageal echo. This is a step in checking on the condition of the mitral valve in his heart, which has been determined to be leaking. If it gets to a certain stage, Class of 1962: Crayton Walters, The Citait will have to be repaired or replaced. Ah, just andel ’83, and George Collins on the sailother “benefit” of aging. boat ChessieRacing.

Bill Mizell celebrated his birthday Sunday, April

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a Congressional staff delegation that he took to Saudi Arabia and Yemen. He was the scholar escort. Without any question, what that experience did for me transformed my life. I’ve benefited from it ever since.”

The 12th Infantry Regiment out of Fort Carson, Colorado, has named Red Warrior, Ed Northrop, honorary colonel of the regiment. Ed is an active Red Warrior and served as company commander in 1966-67. The command sergeant major nominated Ed for the honor after the two met during the 12th Regiment Monument dedication in Columbus, Georgia, in May 2017. A waiver was required for him to be approved, as he retired as a lieutenant colonel. He was the project coordinator for the building of the 12th Infantry Regiment monument.

Edmund Strickler’s brother, Michael ’71, who retired as assistant to the superintendent at VMI in June 2013, visited Ed recently. Michael had never been to the western part of Texas where Edmund and Margie lived for four years, so he flew into San Antonio, and the two of them (and a large bottle of bourbon) took their RV and traveled West. They spent three days in Alpine, Texas, where they had lived, and five days near and in the Big Bend National Park. During this time, they took a raft trip on the Rio Grande through Santa Elena Canyon in the park. They really had an enjoyable time, as this was the most time they had been able to spend together since they were kids living with their parents. On Ed and Margie’s bucket list is a trip to Australia and New Zealand, so they plan to take a 35-day land tour with Overseas Adventure Travel for their 45th wedding anniversary beginning March 24, 2019.

They will spend five to six days in Tasmania and split the remainder in Australia and New Zealand.

Obviously, there will be a report with pictures when they return from that. They plan to spend this summer in several locations in New Mexico at higher elevations to avoid the heat and return to Texas in early October.

Dan Prall sent a photo of the August total solar eclipse that he shot in Nebraska. He says it was his fifth total eclipse since his first in 1991 where he combined the trip to Baja, California, with a week of scuba diving. For the other three, he had to go to Turkey twice and Curacao once. He may go to

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Chile in late 2020 for another, but if not, in April 2024, he’ll get almost three minutes of totality in his backyard in Carrollton, Texas.

Ran Hamner (and Allison) hosted Tony Bueschen and his wife, Norma Jean, on their recent visit to North Carolina. Tony was giving a presentation to the urology department at Wake Forest University. They extended their trip to a long weekend at Snake Acres. Ran and Tony met as rats when they both discovered that Scott Shipp Hall was a great place to study. He made arrangements for them to join them for a walking tour of the Duke Gardens and a piano concerto, also at Duke. (Ran doesn’t mind going to Duke once they got bounced from the Big Dance.) They also played golf, which was a little chilly. Between the two of them, they hit some good shots. They had a wonderful weekend and plan on seeing them again in Atlanta. Ran also spent a delightful Friday night with Bobby and Nancy Mitchell in Winchester.

He was on his way to Gettysburg to watch his son, Christopher, run his 27th marathon. It was so good to see Bob and Nancy. They went out to a favorite place for dinner Friday night. Bob also had 20 yards of mulch delivered and handed him a shovel Saturday morning. Ran could not get out of there fast enough. While in Gettysburg, Christopher took him on a staff ride of the battlefield.

It was fascinating to see and hear all the strategies, personalities and tipping points unfold.

Sonny Robbins is still working coaching chief executive officers by running a Vistage (TEC) Group and finds that quite rewarding. On Nov. 24, 2017, he and Betsy celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in Richmond. They gathered there with their three kids and four grandkids. They had a dinner party to celebrate. Buck and Louise Bradley, Tom and Carpie Coulbourn, David and Nancy Plageman, and Dick and Marti Thomas were able to join them, along with lots of family and friends. They’re both healthy and active in Jacksonville. Betsy’s on the club tennis team and plays golf. He gets to the gym frequently but has discovered his weight control issue: He works out once a day and eats three times a day! He does see Nick Nicholson from time to time. Their daughter, Beth, was ordained as a Unitarian Universalist minister May 6 in Boston and they planned to fly up for that. He continues to fly their plane – he flew out to San Diego in January on business!

They’re going to Costa Rica in May for a week.

(On Delta!)

In March 2018, Cal Seybold went to visit his

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son, Lt. Col. Clinton C. Seybold ’92, who is living in American Samoa, which is located in the South Pacific near New Zealand and Tahiti.

American Samoa is a protectorate of the United States. While visiting, they went to visit the nation of Samoa, which is a 30-minute flight away from American Samoa. However, Samoa is across the international date line from American Samoa, and Samoa does not go on daylight saving time as American Samoa does. Therefore, when they flew to Apia, the capital of Samoa, from Pago Pago, the capital of American Samoa, March 14, 2018, at 08:00 a.m., they arrived at 09:30 a.m. March 15, 2018. That was just interesting; however, when they flew back to American Samoa from Samoa, they left at 4:30 p.m. March 16, 2018, and arrived at 4 p.m. March 15, 2018. He counts this as a bucket list item/goal of time traveling! In April 2018, he and part of his family went to Los Angeles, California. While there they went to see the King Tut exhibit at the California Science Center.

A couple of things really stood out to him about the King Tut exhibit: 1) The Egyptians had developed and used “boomerangs” – some would return, and some would not. 2) King Tut died at age 19 and was buried in the Valley of Kings approximately 1,000 years after the last pyramids were built. He did not realize how long the Egyptian pharaohs ruled in Egypt (3,150 B.C. to 343 B.C.). King Tut’s tomb is the only Egyptian pharaoh tomb that has been discovered undisturbed so far. They went to President Reagan’s Library and saw a great Genghis Khan exhibit, as well as the library. Khan ruled an empire twice as large as any other ruler in history. Khan’s postal delivery system was the model for the Pony Express

in the U.S.; he developed a writing system for the Mongols; he conducted regular census of his people; he granted diplomatic immunity to visiting diplomats; he allowed freedom of religion; he developed paper money; and he developed the fork. Here, he just thought Genghis Khan was an illiterate barbarian who commanded a great cavalry force that almost captured Europe.

Cal’s son has appeared on the fiscal year 2018 reserve component colonel Army promotion selection board order released May 8, 2018. He will relinquish his battalion command in American Samoa this coming July and be available for reassignment. He assumes he will then be considered for, and slotted in, a full colonel (O-6) position.

He has heard him say that he wants to attend the Army War College and, of course, there is now the possibility of brigade command. Cal said the big problem now is now his son officially outranks him. His extensive tenure as a lieutenant colonel no longer carries any weight. If he expects Cal to call him, “Sir,” he just might have to leave town whenever he is there. All kidding aside, he could not be prouder!

Jim Richards has been cleaning up from the winter blows, pruning and mowing for the first time. He says everything in the mountains is starting to green up and leaf out. He is still involved as facility manager for their church. He and Florine haven’t done much traveling lately, except to occasionally visit their daughter in South Carolina.

In June, they traveled to Idaho to visit their other daughter in Boise, Idaho. As he follows VMI, he has become aware of how much education has changed in the 50-plus years since we graduated.

There seems to be so much more research and

Class of 1962: Brother rats and ladies at Jerry Wagner’s burial.

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Class Notes independent study these days. From reading the Institute Report, it seems that our cadets are no exception. It is far cry from the “nose in the books” approach as when we were cadets. He thinks it must be working, as graduating classes are getting pretty much full employment regardless of major.

Those accepting commissions in the armed forces are approaching 50 percent (a bit disappointing to him, as he has heard brother rats who just served their minimum commitment describe how much they enjoyed serving). He speaks to Bob Tyson every week. Bob is pretty much confined to bed these days but seems to remember even the minutest details of VMI. Bill Harris reported that things in Jamestown Farms (Florissant, Missouri) have not changed much this year so far. He and Christa are planning another cruise later this year. Their only trip so far this year was to leave in the snow in February to drive down to their neighbor’s second home at Hilton Head Island for a great week on the beach in 85-degree weather. He says it’s nice to have neighbors with lots of cash!

George Collins is back in the business of offshore racing. After a five-month repair at Thunderbolt Marina, Georgia, ChessieRacing, a Tripp 62 sloop, returned to competition at Charleston Race Week April 13-15. Winning the two long offshore pursuit races, ChessieRacing finished fifth in the short race and second in the series against 24 competitors. The repair was quite extensive to the lifting keel as a temporary boat delivery captain decided to run too close to the shoals off Cape Hatteras almost taking one out. Helping guide CR around the tight courses was senior harbor pilot Crayton Walters, Citadel class of ’83, and a former Air Force officer like George. Who would have guessed a Keydet and a Bulldog would work together so well? George has had to cut back on offshore racing due to health concerns, but a few races not requiring long distances offshore are on the schedule along the East Coast. Any BRs wishing to sign up should notify George. He is happy to have a few rail sitters.

Tommy Layne has moved from Charleston, South Carolina, to Winchester, Virginia. After his years at VMI, plus teaching in the Shenandoah Valley for 51 years, he missed the mountains and slower pace of life. He has been following the Keydets on the website and RooTube and plans to be at some home games this fall.

Ed Vinieratos has retired in the northern European country of Latvia after 24 years of teaching

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mostly English but also terminology for mathematics and physics in Russia and Moscow and also, a year in Ukrainian Sevastopol, the home port of the Russian Black Sea Fleet. On April 22 he returned to Los Angeles to prepare for a routine lower back surgery at the large Veterans Affairs Hospital. Afterward, he hopes to visit Hampton, Virginia, for his high school class’ 60th reunion.

In January, Carol and he took a road trip to Melbourne, Florida, to visit Carol’s sister. The highlight of the trip were their visits to the Kennedy Space Center (they spent two days there). It was very interesting, and he was amazed by the size of the rockets. They took a guided tour of the launch sights one day and saw the Space-X Falcon Heavy rocket on the launch pad (the one that put the Tesla in orbit). He highly recommends a visit to KSC if you are in the area. They are planning a trip back to Florida in late November for their nephew’s wedding.

Thanks for all your help in providing me with the information for these notes. Keep the information coming.

1963

Michael J. Curley

Class agent’s corner: First, a quick word.

Your class notes are going to be written as a team in future. We will lead off with a few words from me, then Pres Holtry will continue and write most of the notes. He is a published author, so this new format should be a lot of fun and more interesting to read – hope you enjoy the new concept. Remember that when you share your life events and pictures with us, it’s like we’re catching up on family ... our very own Facebook!

Sadly, we lost another brother rat this quarter, Dave Gootee. As I’m sure you may recall, Dave was Band Company commander, and I remember him quite well as a good leader.

After graduation, Dave enjoyed a long and successful career in the CIA. Highlights of his life centered on family, volunteer work in the rescue field and, very interestingly, he wore the hats of an officer in the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps and the U.S. Air Force. Bill Bell and I attended his memorial service in

March, and it was obvious he was loved and respected by all in attendance even though he was a quiet man. He and his wife, Agnes, were married for more than 50 years! Paul Thomson just notified me also that Liza, his wife of more than 50 years, died following a lengthy illness. We have no obituary yet, however Paul said that is forthcoming. Elizabeth was buried at Our Lady of Nazareth May 17 in Roanoke, Virginia.

The scribe’s corner: What a fantastic 55th Reunion we had! We all thought the weekday dates for our reunion might dampen our enjoyment, but it certainly didn’t turn out that way.

The committee, aided by Peggy Riethmiller, made us all smile from Sunday’s dinner at The Sheridan Livery until Wednesday morning’s brunch hosted by Peggy at the Center for Leadership and Ethics. Sadly, the far-superior Possum Hollow venue was rained out! We missed all of you who were unable to attend; however, we partied for all of you! Next time, please try to make the celebration.

It’s hard to believe five years can go by so fast and so sad the three days for the 55th went by faster than lightning! Certainly, it wasn’t enough time to get caught up on what everybody has been doing since we last convened.

I did note that much of the “catching up” seemed to include the latest medical maladies, problems with aging parts and the constant question, “What did you say?” indicating hearing is a challenge for most of us. Enough of the aging stuff!

A big thanks goes to the reunion committee for toiling away to make the festivities a rousing success. A special call-out to Mike Curley, who continues to defy time and the medical community for doing the essential probing and prodding to get the show staged and running.

By golly, even the buses were there when they were supposed to be! A huge round of applause is for his decision to continue as class agent.

It took a lot of pleading – even debasement from some of us – to continue. Mike, beware the next reunion when a man may be lurking in the wings with a bucket of bronze paint to immortalize you. Additional accolades to the other members of the reunion committee: Bill Jones, Mike Smithers, Art Phaup, Beau Walker, Bob Earle, Bob Powell, John Mills and Richard Warren. Guys, you did great! Thanks to Steve and Peggy Riethmiller, who served as

VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1963: Present at the reunion were Aaron F. Allison Jr., Charles R. Amory Jr., John R. Amos, Warren T. Anderson, Robert R. Baldwin, Clifford M. Beasley Jr., William A. Bell, Pierre E. Brunel, Josiah Bunting III, Robert L. Byrd, Marion L. Caldwell Jr., P. Donald Campbell, William R. Cato II, Paul C. Clare, William C. Cowardin Jr., William G. Crisp, Dennis W. Crowley, Michael J. Curley, Wayne W. Custer, George H. Delk Jr., James U. Downs, Gary C. Eifried, James F. Ellis, Eric J. Fygi, David M. Glantz, H. Hobbs Goodwin, Fred K. Green, Robert G. Gregory Jr., Gary R. Hermon, James B. Hoge, Anthony K. Holtry, Preston W. Holtry, W.O. Jones III, John W. Jordan IV, J. Patrick Kelly III, James S. Key, Walter J. Kleine, S. Wayne Kohlwes, Hinton Lampley Jr., R. Dennis Marchant, James V. McMahon, J. Clifford Miller III, Joseph A. Miller Jr., John A. Mills III, G. Gilmer Minor III, John B. Mitchell, Fausto E. Molinet Jr., P. William Moore Jr., Phillip R. Ogden, John L. Parks Jr., William N. Pendleton, A.A. Phaup Jr., Robert B. Powell, Harry C. Redd III, John F. Reid, Howard I. Reynolds, Steven Riethmiller, Douglas S. Rowe, George N. Savage III, Edward H. Shield, Michael T. Smither, Lee Spessard, Michael M. Stockdell, Charles E. Straub III, Robert C. Troxler, Ralph E. Turpin Jr., George I. Vogel II, David C. Wade III, M. B. Walker III, Robert S. Walton III, Richard D. Warren, J. Michael Warring, William A. Wells, Edwin S. White Jr., N. Kirke White, Tom W. Whitford, C. Randolph Williams Sr., Kent S. Wilson and William E. Wray Jr.

Class Notes

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Class Notes the informal local host and hostess always ready to provide a warm welcome and a fond Possum Hollow goodbye.

Activities started Sunday afternoon as the BRs started rolling in. The first question being asked, “Where’s the beer and wine?” We had a good turnout, with 75 of us making it on time for assembly and 135 total attendees. Bob Troxler was fashionably late, citing problems about a French connection that didn’t go down well. And you thought he was in the banking/investment business. Anyway, that was his cover story, but I’m making enquiries on the side. Much to my surprise, I learned Jim McMahon is living in Patagonia, about 50 miles as the crow flies from Tucson where I live. Who knew? There were some last-minute cancellations, including Charlie Talbott and Fausto Molinet; still, it was a good turnout for a bunch of old coots.

John Mills organized the golf tournament at the Lexington Golf & Country Club Monday. I have no idea how that turned out, since I was in bed all day Monday with whatever got me late Sunday afternoon. Pat Kelly also went down for the count, but we both rallied enough by that evening to attend the VMI Alumni Association dinner. The ladies looked charming, the guys somehow managed to tie a necktie and everyone behaved during the presentation by Gen. Binnie Peay ’62 except when he dared to mention a name (read former commandant) that should never be uttered in the presence of the Class of ’63. He reported 10 percent of the Corps is women – a reality for which Si Bunting deserves a lot of credit, as he established a smooth and successful transition to a coed Corps.

There’s no question from the general’s report the Institute is doing well, with even greater things scheduled and budgeted ahead.

Rain Tuesday gave the Corps cause to give profuse thanks to the rain gods for a timely intervention which canceled parade activities. The class picture was moved into J.M. Hall, and a ragged volley ensued as many BRs came late to the formation, necessitating another photo op. The VMI staff worked a technical miracle to merge the two photos. Some for those who went back for the retake may have two pictures (there are probably at least four images of Pete Brunel). By the way, most if not all the pics included here were shot by Pete; Mike and I culled out the 50 selfies he included.

Following the photo shoot was time to tour the VMI Museum downstairs. Wow, I’d forgotten the professional presentations of the history of VMI of yesteryear and the famous luminaries who

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played such prominent roles in the Institute’s history. To my surprise, I saw Jan Gray’s fatigues in one of the displays. Jan was my four-year roomie.

I think what interested me the most was the display showing what the typical barracks room now.

Hinton Lampley and I observed the layout comparing what we recalled and contrasting it with what the cadets enjoy today. Not huge differences, but enough to suggest a modernity we certainly did not see then. The hay looked different and, frankly, less comfortable. One of my biggest mistakes was not taking my hay with me. I couldn’t afford the FOB rate as a brand-new second lieutenant. Hinton did, but I kept my chair! Still have it and sit in it every morning to put on my socks.

The honored classes assembled in an Old Yell formation outside J.M. Hall then ambled into the main courtyard to the tune of “Waltzing Matilda.” Somehow, that seemed appropriate given Moe, the VMI mascot, is a kangaroo. Curious, for years I thought it was a rat. Once again, our favorite cheerleader, Frank Allison, mounted the steps to the top of the sentinel box with his usual agility and élan. We were loud, and we were proud of what we did so many years ago. More importantly, we are proud of what we are today because of the four years we spent in barracks square in the shadow of House Mountain. A final comment: If any of you guys didn’t get a lump in your throat when the band played those familiar songs, you must have had your hearing aids in your pocket!

Tuesday night was the highlight of our time together. Apart from a really great dinner which did the Natural Bridge Hotel proud, the evening was about camaraderie, memories and “mentioning special people in dispatches.” Get out your hanky, because there were many touching moments.

Candy Prystaloski managed to tug the heartstrings of all when she talked about the support given by the class when Don died before our 50th Reunion.

Don was Company E, as was I, so her words were especially poignant for me. Her message to the class, both BRs and distaff, was about the solace she took from the outpouring of support from Don’s classmates that over time transcends to our significant others, AKA sister rats. Candy and her daughters, Donna and Diane, thought it was only fitting that Mike Curley, who lost his class sweater in a manner which doesn’t require details, should be given Don’s sweater.

Then there were Billy Wray and Leland Caldwell helping our BR Ed White who, in recent years, has been traversing a hard road with

physical difficulties. What Billy and Leland have been doing to help Ed exemplifies the BR bond solidly forged during a challenging time and that endures.

Bunny Reynolds updated us on the Tucker Oliver scholarship fund. Tucker is our only classmate who died on the field of honor in Vietnam. As Bunny reports: “The quinquennial wine bottle raffle – that would be the 1863 Madeira that is to be consumed by the last few BRs still standing and able to drink – was won by Frank Allison and raised $600 for the benefit of the Oliver Class of 1963 Scholarship Fund. For those who missed the occasion, the fund value is currently about $200,000 and has awarded some $60,000 to 12 cadets, including two economics/business majors just completing their rat year.” The rumor is Frank thought he was buying insurance to avoid custody of the bottle for the next five years. Way to go, Bunny. Tucker would be more than pleased!

Artie Phaup was pleasantly surprised when the class presented him with a clock made by Phil Vaughn’s company in recognition for his tireless efforts in getting the class website up and running.

He responded by telling Mike, “I’m wowed by the clock; it’s beautiful! It came as a total surprise and very touching. I’m truly moved.” You realize, Artie, the job of website guru is a lifetime commitment.

Finally, there is the “travel award,” presented to our long sacrificing, self-effacing class agent – yes, the one, the only Mike Curley – who was ready to hang it up after 15 years; however, there was a groundswell that pushed back. In the late hours, in the darkness of the moon during the ebb tide, there was a brilliant thought – Mike can be bought!

Therefore, a travel stipend (not to include a private car or business class travel) was approved – an award for a modest getaway from the cares and concerns of VMI alumni tasks and suspense dates.

A few quick updates were reported over the course of the reunion. Before coming to the reunion, Jim Hoge had an angiogram that revealed an artery 80-90 percent blocked. Thanks to a stent, he says he’s “feeling much healthier today and attributes that to a happy heart.” On a not-so-happy note, I asked Gary Eifried where Joe Liberti was and learned he has some major health issues; Joe, Wardlee, our thoughts are with you!

On the literary market, Si Bunting’s latest biography is about the life of Gen. George C. Marshall ’901 and is scheduled for release this fall. On a less operatic note, my latest novel, “Legacy,”

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 1.

2.

3.

6.

4.

5.

8.

7.

Class of 1963:

9.

1. Peggy and Steve Riethmiller, local hosts for the 55th Reunion, with Bob Troxler.

2. W.O. Jones, class treasurer, and his wife, Caroline, enjoying Bo Delk, pre-dinner speaker.

3. Keepers of the Tucker Oliver Scholarship Fund, Judy and Bunny Reynolds.

4. Candy Prystaloski, Judy Mills and Christy Custer relaxing during the 55th Reunion.

5. Remaining at his post, Rudy Amos, class president for life, and his wife, Judy, at the 55th Reunion.

6. Art Phaup, webmaster, and his wife, Ann. 7. Judy (John) Mills and Lisa (Bill) Moore at the Natural Bridge Hotel.

8. In March, class members gathered for lunch at Wegman’s in Short Pump, Virginia. Those present included Art Phaup, Mike Curley, Buddy 2018-Issue 3

10.

Cato (Emporia, Georgia), George “Bo” Delk (Nelson County), John Mills (Richmond and Virginia Beach), Gil Minor and W.O. Jones.

9. Jim Hoge and Catherine Liu following an evening of dancing at the 55th Reunion.

10. Pres Holtry, newly appointed class scribe, and his wife, Judy.

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Class Notes the second volume of the ARRIUS Trilogy, was released on Amazon a week before the reunion convened. It continues a story set in the second century Roman Empire – Andy Anderson, give it up and at least invest in the cheap Kindle version.

OK, troops, here are the scribe’s rules of engagement for future input to the class notes. The minimum requirement is to submit at least one update each year. Failure to do so will force me to make something up, and as a novelist, I can assure you my endless trove of seamy situations may include you. I think the Russian word is kompromat. Besides writing “airplane” books which you read on the plane then leave on the seat when you’re done, I was in the intel business, and I still have my sources. On a more serious note, I want to send a call-out to our sister rats who sadly have lost a significant other. I welcome an update and will include you in in future dispatches. Candy P., Christi Weddington, I’m talking to you! Your loss is our loss, ladies, and we love you!

A final comment: There’s another me. I’m not Tony, and he isn’t Pres. We look alike, although I’m younger and look as much. Six minutes is significant when you’re an identical twin. What’s important is any negatives for class notes coverage may be sent to Tony at Gloucester Point, Virginia; positives are welcome in Oro Valley, Arizona.

In the meantime, stay safe, stay well and, as curleyrat would say, in the bonds!

Pres

1964

After dinner Friday night at their home, Don lined up dozens of possible activities Saturday, to include spring training baseball, an antique car show, time at the beach and time for shopping.

Saturday evening, we had a restaurant booked for dinner, followed by dessert prepared by Margaret at their home.

Sunday morning, we again showed up at the Carsons’ door for a fabulous brunch. Then it was tearful goodbyes. However, to take advantage of the warm Florida weather, several attendees stayed over in a rental house.

Chuck MacDonald: “Not much changed since what I wrote in the Christmas card to you. June is still doing physical therapy from her left hip replacement in November, and we visit her surgeon next Tuesday to see when we can schedule her right hip. This may be complicated by having to be in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, March 22 for our son-in-law’s surgery on his neck to replace two discs. Michael has been in great pain for about three weeks. Fortunately, they now seem to have pain management in sync.”

Richard Beatty sent an invitation for his wedding to Patricia Duelfer (Mickey), which was held June 23 in Kaslispell, Montana. Congratulations. Unfortuantely, Sherrel and I were out of the country. That trip will be covered in the next class notes.

Bill Grubb: “As you remember, my wife passed away last year. She suffered from heart failure for five-plus years. She passed away quietly and with

John R. Cavedo

By the time this Alumni Review hits your home, there will be only eight months until our 55th Reunion in Lexington April 14-16, 2019 (SundayTuesday). Commit and sign up early.

The first event occuring during this last period was the eighth annual mini reunion hosted by Don and Margaret Carson at their home in Jupiter, Florida. Some of the best attendance yet: John and Sherrel Cavedo, Bill and Marion Garber, Bill and Dyan Crone, Dan and Sandy DeForrest, Kevin McCarthy, Bill and Lila Mendal, Tom and Yvonne Myers, Butch and Joan Nunnally, Tom and Penny Sebrell, Roxane Spitzer (Fleshood), and Bob and Cathy Warren.

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Class of 1964: Judy and Jack Trossbach in Korea in February 2018.

no pain July 11, 2017. She was surrounded by her children, friends and me. I miss her greatly.

“Before she passed on, we made preliminary plans to move into an assisted living facility in Simpsonville, South Carolina. After her funeral, I moved into The Springs in early September 2017.

I got ill after Penny passed away and after I moved into my new facilities, so I did not get a class to teach last semester, and it looks like I will also miss out for the summer semester. Fortunately, I applied for a Veterans Affairs pension, and it was approved, so my rent here is covered. At any rate, I was in the hospital for 5-6 weeks and rehab for another 3-4 weeks. I had pneumonia and had become allergic to one of my long-term medications. I seem to be all right now.

“What has got me through all of this has been my family. My children and grandchildren have made a point of seeing me every week and reserving one night each week to get together for dinner. The Weddington branch calls and drops by when they can. As you are aware my grandson, Whittner Litton, received an offer from VMI to play lacrosse even though he is only a junior. The Weddington lacrosse team has won their conference and is playing in the state championship this week. We have to wait on football. Whittner is looking forward to attending VMI. “I have plenty of reading and study material. I have lots of Amazon videos, movies, etc., and I watch TV on occasion (waiting for football season to start). As a result, I am not bored, and the material stimulates me mentally enough so that I can get my mind off missing my wife.”

Dick Atkinson: “I am writing you from Jerusalem, where I have just been to a Jewish synagogue for the first time. Susan and I are taking our daughter, her husband and a granddaughter to Israel for a tour of the Holy Land. We went to the market outside the Old City yesterday and saw quite a variety of really nice fruits and vegetables.

Things are more expensive here than in the United States, but fruits and vegetables are relatively cheap. Meat is certainly more expensive, and eating out is painful. There were great mounds of spices and a bakery on every corner. We spent the first few days in Jerusalem and tomorrow will start our guided tour and see the usual sites of Masada, the Dead Sea, the Sea of Galilee, Nazareth, the Golan Heights and multiple sites within Jerusalem itself. Susan and I have been to Israel before, so we have seen most of these, but we will also have a trip to Petra which we haven’t seen and

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes are looking forward to that.

“Susan has taken up wall climbing, perhaps in response to living with me in semiretirement, but she goes several times a week to the local climbing gym. She was talking to her physician, and he was quite shocked that a great-grandmother would be climbing walls. I am still editor of the International Journal of Obesity which keeps me moderately busy – consulting for several companies and colleagues across the world, so it isn’t full retirement yet. We recently had our 50th reunion of my medical school class at the Medical College of Virginia. Jim Harkrader and Dick Dean were there from the VMI contingent, but I was quite disappointed that Hank Alperin, John Montgomery and Mike Hanna were not there. Jim is still seeing patients regularly and has no plans to stop anytime soon. Dick was chief executive officer of the Wake Forest Hospital and has retired from that but is still busy with charitable duties. We had time to get to know Dick’s wife, Catherine, which was a treat. The three VMI musketeers agreed that while most of our classmates looked old, we hadn’t changed much.

“On another front, we had a great time at the Florida VMI reunion at Don Carson’s house. Bill Garber, Bill Crone, Dan Deforrest and Tom Sebrell plus our wives shared a house that Garber rented. Having just left a recent snowfall at home to go to Florida, the 75-degree sunny days were wonderful. I am reassessing whether we will stay in Virginia for the winters in the future. I figure that so many of our classmates live in Florida we can just sponge off each of them for a week and stay in the warm weather the whole winter. Sounds like a plan to me.

Garber and I had a round of golf while we were there. Neither of us had played for several months, so the golf was not pretty. We did get the opportunity to hit the ball a bunch of times. There weren’t any woods, so Garber and I didn’t commune with nature a great deal, although we did get to look at a lot of marine life in the lakes trying to find our balls. We stopped keeping score after about three

2018-Issue 3

Class of 1964: Frank and Marci Parker in New Zealand in November 2017.

Class of 1964: Don Jones, left, with Paul Conteh ’18, Class of 1964 Cadet New Market Legacy Award recipient, and Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, at the Institute Awards ceremony May 14, 2018. (Photo courtesy VMI Office of Communications and Marketing.)

Class of 1964: Dan and Sandy DeForrest, Bill and Dyan Crone, and Marion and Bill Garber in St. Petersburg, Florida, in March 2018.

holes but had a wonderful time.”

Yvonne Myers: “We welcomed Francesca Myers into the family March 15.

Dad Brad is Tom’s oldest son. Big brother Hunter is three years old.”

Tom Murtha: “Still living in Key West and still love it here. My oldest daughter, Daisy, has just gotten an apartment with her fella, Ray, and they’re playing house.

She works for Habitat for Humanity. My younger daughter, Rose, is the caretaker for the famous six-toed cats at the Ernest Hemingway house. My wife, Stacy, and I are planning a long vacation this summer out West. Maybe we’ll get to visit Bill and Millie McVey in Texas if I can get hold of them. Just finished the role of John Hancock in a production of “1776.” Got chills every night when we signed the Declaration of Independence – a wonderful play. Waiting for our sultry summer to get here. Beautiful now with daytime highs in the low 80s. My God! Is it really almost 55 years since we threw our hats in the air in the courtyard? We’re all approaching our 80s.”

Tom Davis reported that he had lunch with Ron Rogers recently. Ron lives in Hampton and joined Helen and Tom for a meal at their retirement community in Newport News.

Bob Warren: “Cathy and I are on the way from our home in Florida to our farm in New Hampshire. Over the winter, we spent a lot of time with Don and Margaret Carson in Tequesta. We also spent a night with the Garbers and the Crones at their vacation house on Singer Island in April. Before leaving Florida, we spent a weekend in Key West watching our son, David, perform on Duval Street. He is currently doing a solo acoustic guitar show at the Bull and the Tiki on weekends and some week nights. He has played most of the spots in Key West, including Willie T’s, The Green Room, The Smoking Tuna and others. He released his first album last year titled, “Into the Sun.” You can catch him on Facebook at David Warren, Key West.”

Tom Sebrell: “I’m in that I-haven’tdone-a-thing boat. We are going to Bozeman, Montana, in two weeks (May) to

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Class Notes visit my son, Andy, and his family. Hopefully, the snow will be gone by then. After that to Nashville to visit Penny’s daughter, Maggie, and grandkids.

In June, we have two middle school graduations in Virginia (didn’t really know they did this). Unfortunately, they are two weeks apart, so it means two trips. And, sounding like the same old story, we are returning to Vista Verde Ranch near Steamboat, Colorado, in September for some more cattle work.”

Lola Tornabene sent in the following: “Our family gathered in a Richmond, Virginia, to celebrate the birthdays of the oldest (Bill) and the youngest (Sadie, our granddaughter). Wonderful to get the family all together.”

Jack Trossbach: “We just returned from a twoweek cruise to China, South Korea and Japan.

The photo was taken at the DMZ in South Korea.

We had just finished a very enlightening tour of the third tunnel used by North Korea during the Korean War.” David Ayers: “The last thing I thought I would be writing about is my health. I have been very lucky to be able to exercise pretty regularly and have kept my weight down. However, my eating habits were not very healthy (junk food late at night); consequently, my left carotid artery became 80 percent blocked. Successfully cleaned out April 23, and I am on the road to recovery. Kind of scary when all the literature about the procedure warns of possible stroke from dislodged plaque when the operation itself is aimed at preventing strokes. Already changed my eating habits and will get back to exercising next week. The Nunnallys are back from Florida now, and we will get together soon.”

Joe Chompaisal sent a couple of wonderful photographs of a gathering of Thai officers who attended VMI. Look on our private Facebook site.

Don Jones: “Diana and I have stayed busy the last two months working with school groups as well some adult ones, too, in the American Museum of the Civil War here in Appomattox. It gives us much pleasure helping the young folks understand Civil War time period. One of the adult tours was led by none other than Jack Mountcastle ’65 from Richmond. He visits here frequently, but this is the first time we have been able to sit and talk a little.

“Starting next week, I will begin work with a friend of ours who is a playwright, actress and former head of the renowned Nation Builders Program of Colonial Williamsburg as she starts researching and writing a one person play on

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Elizabeth (Lydie) Clinedinst-Crimm, known to many as Mother Crimm. We will be in New Market and on post looking at many letters and other material from her, her cadets and other sources. It should be an interesting trip.

“Also May 14, we will be on post as I will be presenting the Cadet New Market Legacy Award to the member of the Class of 2018, as awarded by his/her classmates. We look forward to that visit. We will also be back on the 15th for the New Market Day ceremonies, which we have attended regularly for the past few years.

“I have also undertaken one more final restoration project for the fun of it, as I am now restoring a first-generation 2000 Nissan Xterra. This was Nissan’s first attempt at a midsize SUV and a dependable and solid vehicle built on their Frontier truck frame with modifications. Hope to have it done later this year. We really enjoy our life in central Virginia, and our home is open to all who wish to stop in.”

Frank Parker: “Marcy and I recently toured Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. It was a great trip and a neat part of the world to visit. It is much changed since I was there in the late 1960s.”

Ted Gammon: “This summer, we have an ambitious trip planned in June (but not accomplished yet). It happens that Sherrill has a trip to Helsinki to present some papers at her company headquarters there. So, I am tagging along to carry her bags.

Since Finland is close to Russia, we decided to take a side trip to St. Petersburg, a three-hour high speed train ride away. Helping with the decision was that we don’t have to obtain visas, because one of the World Cup soccer tournament cities is St. Petersburg, and tickets to a game will suffice during the tournament. My son got to travel to this city as a midshipman at Maine Maritime Academy years ago and always said it was unique. Some concern is that our consulate has been shut down in a reciprocal move for kicking out diplomats.

“After a few days in Russia, we are heading for Copenhagen, which is another place we have never visited and looks nice – Denmark: the happiest country in the world. We’ll see.”

Parker Duncan: “The only news I have is that I had bypass surgery, four of them, April 25 here in Nashville. Came home Monday, April 30. Recovering nicely.”

Tony Putamanonda: “Dusadee and I are in the process of building a new home. The old house, which many BRs had visited over the years, was plagued with chronic problems of flooding after

heavy rains and termites. Many friends say we are too old for all of the headaches which come with such endeavor, but we have no choice. Either we face it now or the burden falls upon Koi, our daughter, who will inherit the property.”

Jan Rudinoff: “Paula and I took a 30-minute train ride from Venice to Treviso. A pleasant city, few tourists and honored for prosecco. Yes, we had a glass with lunch. It was good. We spent three or four hours walking the town.”

King von Schilling: “I have been enjoying retirement more than I thought I would. Have dined, visited and been shooting with Major General Jim Begley ’85 and Tab Warlitner ’85 and had a great time. Will be in the Florida panhandle vacationing for two weeks or so in May and probably look at possible relocation sites. Can’t decide whether to move or stay put. Hunting this year was a bust.

In my primary spot, the Corps of Engineers and Environmental Protection Agency were there to redesign the water flow. What they did scared all deer away. They planted 38,000 trees. In several years, it will be prime. I hope we live that long. The gated community where I live has formed a vets club. Very informal for fun and to keep each other up on changes that are occurring in our benefits.

I have only found two other Vietnam vets so far.

Maybe we are getting to be a scarce commodity. My collectors’ club is sending two exhibits to the National Rifle Association annual in Dallas, Texas, either of which could win a silver medal.

We are hopeful. My shooting club is continuing

Class of 1964: Mike Murphy and his championship horse in Virginia in January 2018.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes its tradition of crushing clays for kids. Proceeds go to St. Jude’s. We have done it for many years now and raised several hundred thousand dollars for them and have fun doing it. Mary is finishing up her therapy and has almost full use of her arm and shoulder. Still a small issue with her hand, but it gets better with each session. I found out how much she had done for me when I shattered my shoulder. Good thing I was finally retired or I would have had to hire a nurse to care for her.”

Bill Mendall: “Lila and I greatly enjoyed visiting with brother rats at the Carson-hosted mini reunion. The Carsons are terrific hosts. A few weeks later, we traveled from Florida to Louisville, Kentucky, to attend my A Company, 4-23rd Infantry reunion, which we hold every spring. I commanded the company during 1967 operating in the region north of Saigon. About 50 old soldiers and wives attended and had a great time retelling the same old stories, but they get better with time.

While in Louisville, we took time to travel the Bourbon Trail and visited the Willett, Barton and Jim Beam distilleries. I came home with many important samples of the bourbon craft. Should anyone wish to travel the whiskey trail, I recommend making Bardstown your central location.”

Cliff Crittsinger: “I continue to remain busy between the Class of 1964 Cadet New Market Legacy Award and as the Alumni Association regional director of the Great Northwest Region.

First, the CNMLA: This year was the first time the cadets ran the entire selection process on their own. Translated, this meant that no BR of the Class of 1964 was present to either assist or provide assistance during this process. The written guidelines, which have evolved over the four years since its inception, provided the necessary tools to ensure a smooth conclusion. This year’s fifth winner was presented May 14 by Don Jones.

“Second, the Alumni Association Great Northwest Region: It has been a busy year with significant travel while shoring up existing chapters and laying the groundwork for new ones. Colorado Springs (Pikes Peak Chapter), Denver (Rocky Mountain Chapter), Seattle (Pacific Northwest Chapter), Honolulu (Hawaii Chapter) and Anchorage (Alaska Chapter) are all alive and re-energized to serve surrounding alumni. Inroads have been made in the Boise, Idaho, area while organizing an event in the planning stages for this summer in Salt Lake City, Utah. I encourage those BRs in these geographic areas to support these chapters and encourage our newer alumni to participate in

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what is the greatest alumni association of any college in the United States.”

Dan DeForrest: “The week after the Florida mini reunion, Bill and Marion Garber plus Bill and Dianne Crone journeyed to St. Petersburg to visit us. The group enjoyed sitting in the sun and watching the St. Petersburg Grand Prix. Bill and Marion are big race fans and are teaching the rest of the group in the finer points of racing strategy.

Dan likes the crashes the best. It looks like this could become an annual event. We also saw Ken and Barb Dice before they headed back to Smith Mountain Lake for the summer.

“We are also busy helping with the twins of our daughter, Michelle, as well as some significant remodeling/rebuilding of the house of our son, Dan, in St. Petersburg. If anyone is interested in buying a camp in the Adirondacks, Dan has one for sale.”

1965

Mickey Finn

Big news from Donny White: “He did it again! Ben Dyer won the Richmond (Monument Avenue) 10K road race Saturday in his (our) age group. Approximately 25,000 runners and walkers participated. This is probably his fifth or sixth consecutive win in this race in his age group. This time he ‘destroyed’ the competition, beating the second place guy in the 75-and-over age group by almost 10 minutes. I have to admit that Ben had an age advantage this year. Ben turned 75 April 12, two days before the race, so he was a young 75-yearold. However, his time of 48:48 was better than the winning time of the 70-74 age group winner, and amazingly, his time was better than the winner of the 65- to 69-year-old group winner. Therefore, he basically won three age groups, beating more than 320 men, combined, in those groups. Last year, the race was run April 1, so Ben competed as a 73-year-old (in the 70-74 age group) and, of course, won that race. But this year’s race was moved to April 14, requiring his participation in the over 75 group. He was probably happy not having to deal with those young 70-year-olds again, but as it turned out, he dusted them as well as the

young 65-year-olds. Congratulations, Brother Rat Dyer!”

The vacation adventures of Charlie Russell: “So, on a ‘rare’ vacation to New York City, we headed up 8th Avenue seeking our hotel, towing our suitcases and having a great time. All of a sudden, Barbara stepped on an uneven spot on the sidewalk and fell like a case of potatoes. All around us helped, gathering her to her feet and helping with the suitcases, but it was a futile effort, as we learned later she had sprained her foot and suffered a slight fracture.

What to do? We pulled into a bar for some ice and a strategy for getting to our hotel some eight or nine blocks away. After recuperating a bit, we decided that the show we had paid for (Carole King’s ‘Beautiful’) was mandatory, so we trundled over there by cab and saw the matinee. Long and short: Barbara is doing fine. It’s amazing that after some 15 or 20 trips to NYC on business, our only ‘vacation’ trip ended up this way. We will return to NYC.” At graduation time at James Madison University, Danny Hogan was there: “Thanks for the note, Mickey. Most excitement right now was graduation of my granddaughter, Sara Elizabeth Pope, last Friday at James Madison University with summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa honors. I am also nearly finished

Class of 1965: Danny Hogan with granddaughter Sara Elizabeth Pope at her graduation from James Madison University May 4, 2018.

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Class Notes showed up? Hint 1: He drove more than 350 miles and crossed two state lines. Hint 2: He drove a red Porsche Carrera and complied with VMI colors by wearing a yellow hat and white polo.

Hint 3: The yellow hat included the annotation, ‘Class Agent.’ That’s right, all the way from Wilmington, North Carolina – none other than Mickey Finn!

Seems our class agent was included in some exclusive dinner arrangements later today in Washington, D.C., so he left ‘a little early’ in order to make our lunch. Thank you, Mickey!

“Everyone signed a get-well card for Class of 1965: Brother Rats Bob Southworth, Fred Bishopp, Bob Brother Rat Phil Taylor and sent along Wilkinson, Tommy Howard, Jeff Wilkins, Bob Deaderick, Mickey Finn, Wayne Chiles, Granny Amos, Lou Siegel, Ron Obenchain and our prayers. Over the past year, WarrenChuck Hough gathered for lunch at the Longhorn Steakhouse in ton has become our regular meeting Warrenton, Virginia, May 7, 2018. place. It has been as close to equidistant as we have found for all those interested in getting together. This time, we agreed to try a new location for next month.

We are meeting out on the Northern Neck in Tappahannock June 14. We are hoping some brother rats in the Richmond area will join us. During lunch, our conversations center around catching up with each others activities and sharing tales of our time in barracks and in uniform. Bob Wilkinson is a wealth of knowledge about Veterans Affairs benefits and also helped several of us Class of 1965: Al Orgain took this photo of Bruddy Baillio install the VMI Alumni Association and Joe Nichols enjoying the wood shop at Al’s Waterstep app on our smartphones. Bob used the Woodcrafters Feb. 7, 2008. All three men have died and are VMIAA app to search for all brother deeply missed by the class. rats in the area and upon finding Mike Yenchochic was only 10 miles away gave him a call. No luck getting an answer, but we tried.”

Phil Taylor provided an update on his health: “I’m home and doing what the doctors said, resting, taking my meds and on a very low sodium diet – less than 550mg daily. No driving or outside activity except to go to doctor appointments.

Susan is on leave of absence from work to drive me to the VA at McGuire in Richmond and the VA clinic in Fredericksburg. Routine primary care starting in June will be here at the house. We’ll still have to go to McGuire for a few special appointments. I’m scheduled for a cardio version May 24 at McGuire. Hopefully, that will put the heart back in rhythm and out of a-fib. If not, a defibrillator may have to be put inside the heart. I’m Class of 1965: Members of the class at the Institute Society Dinner. staying quiet and resting like the doctor ordered. I

writing my VMI book about all of the infrastructure that is named – buildings, houses, athletic facilities, statues and memorials – and a brief biography for everyone named for those objects. This has been so interesting, and I hope to finish the draft by summer. Also, going to Rye, New York, in June for my grandson’s high school graduation.”

In the late evening of Tuesday, May 8, John Millard Butler Baillio died unexpectedly at home. The services were held at 11 a.m., Saturday, May 12, at the First Presbyterian Church of Virginia Beach. The family received guests immediately following the service at the Princess Anne Country Club, Virginia Beach. His obituary will appear in the 2018-Issue 4 Review.

Daryl McClung wrote upon hearing about Bruddy, “I hate to hear of the passing of any of our brother rats.

Bruddy roomed next door in our 1st Class year. Taught me to play the guitar, then I bought his. I think of him each time I pass his sand and gravel business in Virginia Beach. Guess I’ll find an alternate route in and out of town. I hope all is well with you and Jane. Give her a hug from me. Thanks for all the work over the years.”

Chuck Hough filed this report on the northern Virginia lunch in Warrenton, Virginia. “The Class of ’65 extended northern Virginia contingent threw a party, and guess who

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1965: Johnny Mac and Jamie Marshall enjoyed a break on the beach while attending a judicial conference in Galveston, Texas, May 9, 2018. will let you know of any changes. Hope all is well with you and yours.”

Larry Umberger reported, “Last weekend (May 5) was a special event in Olin, North Carolina.

My roommate, Ken Jordan, was married to Liz (Elizabeth) Gobel at a small church which was founded in the 1800s. As you may remember, Ken’s first wife, Sally, died several years ago. Over the last three or four years, we have been getting to know Liz at VMI football games in South Carolina and North Carolina when Ken and Liz could drive over and join us. At the wedding, Ken’s grandchildren were the ring bearer and the flower girl, and there was a church full of friends and family to witness their joining their lives together. Among those present were Ken’s and my roommate, Bob Semple, and his wife, Becky, as well as Sally’s brother, John Davis ’68. You can think of them as they both have a home and separate lives to blend together, as Ken continues to work for Duke Power and Liz is retired from a teaching career. Bob and Becky still live on the Virginia/North Carolina border near I-85 on

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her family’s farm, where they are involved in the church and community and care for a number of cats and dogs. Fi and I are both essentially retired and enjoy helping with our grandchildren, Branner, 12, and Bella, nine. I have been engineering and overseeing construction of a new parking lot being constructed for our church on a new piece of property adjacent to our current parking lot. It was good to go see the VMI baseball team beat the University of South Carolina in the first game of the season here in Columbia. If you are ever coming to Columbia, South Carolina, or through, please give a call and stop for a visit!”

Lou Siegel is starting the planning for our 55th Reunion with, “Hi, BRs – this is Lou, and this is the middle of May 2018. I talked with the Alumni Association this morning to get a preliminary read on our 55th. This reunion will be held on a Monday and Tuesday in April 2020. Exact dates are not known yet. Hotel: We will not get an option on using the same ones for our 50th.

I asked if we would be in the outback and got a cloudy answer, so I will keep at this topic. Meals: On the first evening, Monday, the association will host an all classes event in the Marshall leadership center. I don’t know if we pay for this or not.

Tuesday evening, we could have Moody Hall, but this is a first come, first served thing. If we want it, we need to claim it now. Please let me know at clouissiegel@gmail.com. By the time you get this, Mickey and I may have talked about it and claimed Moody Hall. We can always give it up, but if we’re late, we’re late. Cost of the 55th – no detailed information at this time. So, sometime early next year (2019), we’ll get a letter out to all of you on the reunion. No volunteers yet on who will be the main guy. Suggestions? Let Mickey and me know. Everyone, take care of yourselves!”

I ran into Bill Ryan May 14 at the Harris Teeter, and he looked great! He told me that he and Carol would be leaving in a few days to go to Memphis to attend the wedding of their granddaughter, McKenna Seely, daughter of Billy Seely ’87.

McKenna is a very talented lady who is a recording artist and writer.

I have just received the obituary of Robert Gary Whirl who died May 5, 2018. He was buried with military honors at the National Cemetery of the Alleghenies Wednesday, May 9, 2018. Details will be published in the November issue of the Alumni Review.

Time to close these notes with an Old Yell for ’65! ’65! ’65!

1966

Nick Hoskot

Items of interest about the area around Lexington, Virginia, can be found in the most unusual places – in this case, the May 2018 edition of “The Costco Connection.” On page 148, entitled “The Show Must Go On,” is an article about Hull’s Drive-in Theatre, located 4 miles north of Lexington. As the article notes in the lead paragraph: “Hull’s is the first and only community-operated nonprofit drive-in in the United States and is managed by its loyal fans, a nonprofit membership organization known as the Hull’s Angels. The drive-in was built in the Rockbridge area in 1950 and was operated by Sebert W. Hull from 1957 until his death in 1998. The next new owner found that the many technical improvements/upgrades needed made it impossible to operate from a financial standpoint. Today, Hull’s is open from mid-March to late October, with double features on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (also Thursday nights in July and August).” Check it out when you’re in town.

These notes are being compiled on New Market Day 2018, and BR John Jumper received the New Market Medal for his service to our country and the Institute. Congratulations, John! On the evening preceding the presentation, BRs Sadler and Louthan and cohosted a get-together for 30-plus BRs and their guests at the Sadler home in Glasgow, Virginia.

Bill Edmunds is still a docent at the Smithsonian’s Udvar-Hazy Center at Dulles airport and wrote that he would welcome the opportunity to provide any of us a tour of the museum.

Just contact Bill if you would like to arrange a guided tour of the center.

Jim Smith shared the wonderful news that he has reconnected with a wonderful friend of many years, and he and Sandra Lynne will be married July 28. As he noted: “Your ol’ BR ain’t dead yet!” Congratulations and best wishes from the Class of 1966 to Jim and Sandra Lynne.

Paul Robblee noted that he and several others, including Cliff “Scoop” Martin, Al “Moby” Carr and Bob Odom try to get together for

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Class Notes lunch every other week in the greater Lexington area. Brother rats who happen to be in the area should contact the guys above for info regarding these informal meetings. Your presence would be greatly welcomed!

Rich Hines provided the names of brother rats who were able to attend the services for Terry Crump: Bob Fowler and wife Marge, Rich and wife Wawa, G.P. Michael and wife Susan, Carrie Louthan and son Frank (Frank was unable to attend), John Turner and wife Pam, and Al Pond ’69 and wife Kathy.

Rick Kiernan shared a couple of anecdotes about events from long ago: First, he attended the Army’s jump school in 1985 when he was 43 years of age in order to qualify for his assignment as the chief of public affairs for XVIII Airborne Corps.

He said those black hats “smoked me like a cheap cigar” and “allowed” Rick to be the right guide on all 4-mile runs, first man out of the towers during week two and first man out of the plane for every jump! “How smart those noncommissioned officers were. They knew the 20-year-olds would be watching the old man! They were correct, and I could never let those wonderful young paratroopers down! Airborne!” On April 30, 2018, Rick was invited by the Vietnamese American Community of the USA to be the guest speaker for the flag raising of the Republic of Vietnam at the City Hall, City of Philadelphia. As Rick noted in his email to me: “A distinct honor to be with my Vietnamese friends after having been a U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam adviser in 1969-70.”

Also in April, Tom “the world traveler” Evans wrote in from a visit to Bora Bora, “one of the most beautiful and iconic islands in the world.

We had two days there.” Tom regularly posts on the Facebook listings on VMI Class of ’66.

Thanks, Tom; always good reading about wonderful places.

Hugh Adams and Jim Smith meet on occasion while attending baseball games for their grandsons, Jack and Christopher. Also on these teams is the grandson of Hugh Dowdy ’65 and son of Tim Dowdy ’00. Hugh also attended the dedication of the Vietnam Helicopter Pilots and Crewmembers Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery and then went to a reunion of his Vietnam company: “Damn, everybody’s getting old!”

These class notes are not as voluminous as usual but interesting to receive and share with you all. So, having said that, your inputs make these notes interesting to read and keep all of us

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relatively up to date with what is going on with brother rats. So, please mark your calendars for these “due” dates for the remainder of 2018: Aug. 12 and Nov. 12. I look forward to receiving news from you about BR gatherings/meetings/ events/etc., by any means you choose to use.

Thanks.

1967

Jan Abernathy

Some of this set begins the day after the February deadline when several of you sent updates. I was able to get the written notes in, but you will recall I sent photos of Joe Stafford and his granddaughters and Ann and Jim Phleger by email, as the five permitted photos were already in and approved. Many of these notes below came in just after closing time to lead off this issue.

Dan Wells: “My Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. I turned 72 two weeks before leaving for Saint Johns Pied de Port (France, and at the foot of the Pyrenees) for a 500-mile walk to the city of Santiago (Saint James). I walked alone for 35 days (but did meet some wonderful folks along the way), averaging 14.3 miles per day and took five days off: One day in Burgos to be a tourist and enjoy the cathedral and a meal along the river at an outdoor café; Three days in Leon to recover from food poisoning (I lost 15 pounds and did not have it to lose); and the last day in Astorga to have a chipped molar repaired due to eating a very hard bocadillo. I arrived in Santiago in early November, found the pilgrim office to obtain my compostela and waited patiently until it was my turn. (I did not realize that I was patient.) It was a celebration to receive this, as the 500-mile walk was quite a walk. Food was very healthy but not enough of it, and octopus is delicious; I highly recommend it.

The other part of my story started a few months earlier, in April 2017, shortly before our 50th Reunion. My fingers became numb while painting, and after a week without improvement, I went to the Veterans Affairs emergency room, where I was diagnosed with a bad disk in my neck that was creating inflammation. After another week of no improvement (my feet were then becoming numb, and I was losing my balance), I was referred to a surgeon, who wanted an MRI. Once he saw

it, I was told that unless surgery occurred quickly, I would be paralyzed and in a wheelchair, as another disk was creating a crescent indentation in my spinal cord, shutting down the electrical impulses needed for the nerves to work. I could not hold a glass of water and had very limited feeling in either hand. I was also told no exercise, as a fall could kill me. After surgery and permission to exercise was granted, I was only able to walk less than a mile with a staff for support and had but 10 weeks to train before leaving for Madrid. I covered 550 miles during those 10 weeks and felt that I could make the trip with a walking staff to support me, as my balance had not recovered. I received much help along the way from very kind pilgrims and locals. I was blessed to be able to do this. The camino should be on everyone’s bucket list as it is an experience of a lifetime. ‘Buen camino’ means good walk in Spanish, and I feel that my life has been a good walk, but more to come.”

Chuck Krebs: “We are doing reasonably well here in wonderful Indian Land, South Carolina.

I am recovering from DMEC cornea transplant of the right eye (check with George Sanborn for greater explanation). I have been going to a great ophthalmologist, and he has now done both of my eyes. ‘Man, this growing old isn’t for sissies.’

Best wishes to you and Joan and family. Chuck and Mya.” Terry Moore has a lifelong habit of tracing his family tree(s). I should say his forest, as I think he can go back to somewhere in the New Testament. I recently have begun a modest trip into

Class of 1967: Tom Engleman and Patti attended U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s on-stage interview at VMI in February 2017.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes that interesting arena. More on this later in this column, but for now, I add that it turns out William Fleshood and I are related three generations back. Meanwhile, Terry sent this request. “Jan, please send me Jimmy Ferrell’s email address. I have a family line of Ferrells going back into Virginia and want to get his parents’ and grandparents’ info [names; birth, marriage and death dates; and locations] to check it out.”

Joe Stafford: “Joyce and I have been on the go, as usual. We spent a week in Hilton Head with friends in early January. In late January, we spent nine days in Sarasota and Ft. Myers. It was a nice break.

Just recently, we were in New York to see two of our granddaughters play at Carnegie Hall. Their high school in Duxbury, Massachusetts, has an amazing music program. More than 50 percent of the students are in the program. I have attached a couple of pictures we took the night of the performance. In addition to Joyce and I were our two granddaughters, Lauren and Ella; their brother, Grant; and our son-in-law, Brad.”

Jack Thompson: “Sandra and I celebrated our 50th wedding anniversary Dec. 27. Here’s a pic of us with our daughter, Elizabeth Sweatman, on that evening for notes in the Alumni Review. Jack.”

Fred Smith: “Toured some beautiful areas with glaciers here in Torres Del Pines National Park, Patagonia, Chile. It rained off and on all day but always cleared just before the picture. Beautiful area to visit.

Food’s not bad either. Ate way too much tonight. Hiked about five miles today.

Maybe that will help.” (Fred sent some beautiful photos of glaciers but none of himself and Judy.)

Tom Engleman: “Tomorrow, March 9, 2018, is the 50th anniversary of the passing of Lawrence Walker Scanlan in Thua Thien province Republic of Vietnam.

Larry was killed in what became known as the Tet Offensive. The Imperial City of Hue is in Thua Thien province. The true horror of that war was brought home by the battle for Hue. Something in the spirit of America was bruised then, as we never looked at ourselves the same way again.

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Class of 1967: Jack and Sandra Thompson with their daughter, Elizabeth Sweatman, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary Dec. 27.

Class of 1967: Ann and Jim Phlegar on their trip to Antarctica.

Class of 1967: Chuck and Ginny Keblusek in Cartagena, Colombia.

Sadly, I believe, like it or not, Larry died fighting in vain for a lie. The divine universe unfolds exactly as it is meant to – it is what it is; I am who I am. There are no mistakes; be good each other. Engelman.”

Anne Guthrie Kupsick: “Hi Jan. It’s been almost 60 degrees here this week in Casper, Wyoming – almost balmy. I’m sure we’ll have another blizzard or two before June. We love the snow; the deeper the powder, the better the snowboarding!

And, of course, the town rarely shuts down on account of snow! (I asked if she could do the snowboard tricks shown in the Olympic TV coverage) I prefer not to leave the ground on my snowboard. The problem with lofting one’s self into the air is you have to come down at some point, and I am rather attached to what little cartilage I have left in my knees and spine.

Gotta make it last! With love, Anne, Asher and Tim.” Jan adds that young Asher Bland Kupsick has been sponsored for a provisional appointment, Class of 2040, by the Class of 1967 brother rats.

I have received several requests over time for info about our class. Current records show the following.

Matriculants: 372. Graduates: 372126=246. Left VMI without graduating (still considered BRs): 126. Lost: 23 (Julin Da Lu, Company B, is the only lost BR who graduated). Deceased: 58. Remaining BRs living (assuming all lost BRs are living): 372-58=314.

J.I. Orrison seems to have repopulated his phone contacts just fine but now has an excuse to not do his own laundry!

Neil Schlussel sent a memory about Tom Coughenour: “Whenever Tom visited the Washington, D.C., area, he always called me, and we got together. Every time we had to go visit a fire station so he could talk to the local firefighters. He really enjoyed doing this, and the locals were always so nice to him; there is a special bond between firefighters which I got to observe close-up. They shared more stories than I can recount. As a band member, especially when he was the bugler when Bill was ‘sleeping,’ he always stopped in my room (in sally port) to warm up and make sure all of us were awake before the first call.

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Class Notes outfit. There is a new section that also can trace not as many. The biggest issue is sleeping at Tom will be missed. I am so glad he was able to you back to famous people (presidents, scientists, night, which is spotty at best. Stephanie has make the 50th.”

Sally Miley and family: “Mike’s surgery was a etc.) to show who might be in your tree. Turns been there for me. I have tried to keep requests success – tumor gone and clear margins. It lasted out Joan is a distant descendent of Sam Adams to a minimum. I am getting around better and almost eight hours due to blood vessels being en- and three signers of the Declaration of Indepen- doing more things, but it will still be a while. Recased by tumor. This is why surgery was originally dence. Apparently, I am not related to anybody hab will continue until the end of May unless the deemed not an option. Even with shrinkage from famous, as I could not get the machine to work doctor calls for more.” chemo, it was still tricky. Doctor Evans had to re- properly. My point is you might want to visit the Barrett Graham: “Since April 1, 2017, I’ve move all of pancreas and spleen because of the place someday. They even teach you how to con- downsized my practice, moved out of Morehead blood vessel involvement. However, we already tinue your searches at home through their free City and into a small building in my backyard, reduced my hours, and am working toward some knew that there would not be enough pancreas left networking. to be functional, so Mike will be on insulin and Neil Schlussel: “Colombia was great. Attached form of retirement. It’ll be interesting to see how pancreas enzymes. Today (Saturday) Mike is still are two pictures from there. The one with my this will shake out.”

J.B. Farley: “All’s well here on the left coast! in ICU and will transfer to a room later. Everyone brother (Kent ’70) was taken at El Castillo in is really pleased with how well he is doing. He Medellin. All the cartels seemed to have left Me- We are leaving next week on a trip to Durango, does have some pain but no more than expected dellin, and it is really a very safe place. There is Colorado, and plan to cruise somewhere – not decided yet – for the autumn. Our on the first day. We are beyond four grandchildren are growing up thrilled! Last summer and fall, we too quickly but are lots of fun to didn’t dream this would be possiwatch and participate with. We ble. We are so grateful for the great are blessed in so many ways, and care he received at Dean Oncology I hope we all can remember to be and from Doctor Evans and team thankful for those blessings despite at Froedtert. Sally, Katherine and the little problems that sometimes Sarah.” distract us. I still enjoy rememberRon Lowry: “I’m headed to the Bahamas Thursday for three ing the 50th and look forward to weeks of fishing with friends – 23rd another reunion in the future. Best straight year together. My left arm regards to all BRs. J.B.” is very slowly getting worse, but I Jack Sheeran asked who among get along fine. Patsy is fine and gous, beyond himself and Fred Smith, have actually kissed the ing to Richmond next week. I have Blarney Stone. my annual physical tomorrow and In reading the Alumni Review will forward you a copy. Ron.” Class of 1967: Attending Skid Garrett’s service in Tennessee were Jan Abthat just arrived, I see I left Karl Do you have a favorite city other ernathy, Dixie Walker, Karl Kanitz, Dave Hobgood and J.I. Orrison.

Kanitz’s name off the list of BRs than where you live? Joan and I annually visit Salt Lake City for a wellness confer- a picture of my friend, Shelli Ross, and me on a attending Skid’s service – apology to Karl. I also ence, and we love the place. Clean, spacious and carriage ride in Cartagena the night before we left. realize I have misplaced info on Wojcik and Kespectacular mountain views from just about any The food was great. The other pictures were taken blusek that covers each of them having a medical near Bosque de Palmas (Park of the Palms) in Val- procedure that stops the heart on purpose and place. We used to go a week early and camp all over Utah, Nevada and Montana. But, age and restarts it to correct rhythm issues. I have spoken le Del Cocora, where we had a local drink called stuff has slowed that down, so this year, we visited Canelazo. (Do not mind my two-fisted drinking; I with them both, as they are recovered, but canthe planetarium and natural history museum, but held someone’s drink while they took the picture. not find my notes as I close this for the Review most of all we spent time in the Mormon genea- That is my story and I am sticking to it.) The other deadline.

If you feel you notice a pattern in the names and logical archives. The place has a series of rooms person in the picture is Kent’s wife, Judy. Neil.”

Taras Galysh May 7 at 3:07 p.m.: “It has photos that appear in the notes, the explanation is and volunteers to guide you through your family history. If you have a name for a starting point, been three weeks today since I had my knee re- this: I use what comes to me. If I am short with they can go back generations. Joan found ances- placement surgery. I am getting around using a news, I remind you of the deadline, and you retors back to the 14th century and quit only because walker but have started transitioning to the use spond if you have something to share. Same with of time. I knew my great-grandfather, John James of cane around the house. Have completed two photos, but those (only five allowed per issue) have Hazelwood, was in the Army of Northern Virgin- full weeks of rehab and will now be having re- to pass muster with the Alumni Review staff for ia but not that he was a prisoner of war after First hab twice a week rather than three times a week. pixels, shadows and content, etc. (No ConfederManassas. After he was paroled, he re-enlisted. The rehab guy says I am doing great. I still have ate flags and such.) Some among you load me His father was in his 60s but was in a Home Guard pain in my knee and am taking pain meds, but up – just want your name and picture to become

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VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1968: Row 1: Walton Jeffress, Howard Chapman, Hal Switzer, Charlie Bishop, Dixon McElwee, Jack Long, Dee Biggs, Ed Anderson, Leigh Edmunds, Gil Piddington, Bob Sagnette, John Lane, Paul Chamberlin, Paul Quillen, Bert Butterfield, Rick Eades, Steve Vaughan, Buck Miller, Tommy Norment, Chips McCallum, Gary Klemas, Bob Crenshaw, Les Martin, David Avery, John Hince, John Crim and Steve Powers. 2nd Row: T.A. Showalter, Bob Schmalzriedt, Jim Fleming, Dean Kershaw, Dick Rankin, George Buzzard, Phil Lanier, Jim Polley, Lew Yeouze, Dave Clark, Frank Pinizzotto, Steve Hubbard, Joe LeVine, Joe Petitta, Bill Bouck, Rick Siegel, John Hart, John Balch, Ben Hedrick, Tom Coffey, Don Lynch, Bryan Barton, Joe O. Smith and Guy Drewry. 3rd Row: Bruce McGlothlin, Andy Bradley, Bill Carter, Roddy Delk, Jack Bareford, Skip Roberts and Dave Law. 4th Row: Bill Bragg, Mike Smythers, Bogart Holland, Howard Donald, Wayne Spruell, Peter Goldman, Vic Huang, Bill Cobb, Skip Harding, Doug Schnabel, Jim Lambert, Richard Wood, Kit Tyler, Steve Wilson, Marvin Thews, Creigh Kelley, Buzz Sprinkle, Jim Henry, Wes Padgett, Greg Wall, Larry Ryan, Irv Grodsky, Barry Archer, Bill Todd, Mike Michelson and Herb Brasington. 5th Row: Dick Wise, Johnny Lester, Guy Wilson, Mac Smith, Bill Cloyd, Rick Brothers, Berry Wright, Rob Trenck, John Byrd, Tayo Leduc, Terry Bowers, Bob Fletcher, Terry Emerson and Ned Harris. 6th Row: Rob Steele, Dave Gehr, John Warburton, Chandler Williams, Herbert Laine, B.J. Waldo, Kerr Kump, Rick Andrassy, Slick Wilkinson, Richard Wallach, Di Johnson, Tom Boyd, Jack Andrews, Clay Thompson, J.B. Timmons, Jay Slaughter, Bill Millan, Ad Hagan, Billy Mike Seargeant and Tom Jeffrey. 7th Row: Lewis White, Gordon Van Hoose, Pete Farmer, Dave Gibbons, Roy Dornsife, Tom Ricketts, John Griffin, Bob Waldron, Smokey Beirne, Skip Anders, Paul Hebert, Jim Burns, Val Sledd, Tom Arensdorf, Mike Gompf and Curtis Beach. 8th Row: Charlie Kershaw, John VanLandingham, John Andrews, Creg Howland, Dana Duthie, Myron Dickerson, Wayne Burton, Rev Jones, Hal Hostetler, Fred Rencsok, Tom Hickey, J.B. Meadows, George Walton, Bill Welsh, John Kemper and Kevin Henry. Present but not pictured was John Royster. Caption provided by Tom Hickey, class agent.

Class Notes

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Class Notes famous, perhaps – but many just do not take the time to share. That is OK, but I do try to make contact with the ‘quiet’ among us. And, if it is worthy of sharing (in my opinion) but not suitable for the AR, I send it by email. That is why you have me in place as the editor for ’67. Let me add I am not much for social media sites. The only thing in this set of notes from a social site is about Taras Galysh that someone sent me after seeing it on Facebook. If there is a message I want to share it is: “Y’all come and bring your stories and photos for all to see. Don’t wait for me to ask or call you.”

1968

Tom Hickey

As I finish this set of notes, our 50th Reunion is receding into the past. I thought that a great weekend was organized by the Reunion Committee under Dean Kershaw’s (Fairfield, Virginia) leadership. I’m not going to fill up the notes with lots of comments but will provide several that I think capture the feelings of many who attended.

Wayne Burton (Kingland, Georgia) wrote: “This was the best class reunion ever. It was an emotional moment when cadet men and women congratulated us as we entered barracks. When we gave the Old Yell, many with tears in our eyes, one brother rat said, ‘There is no other school like this.’

I couldn’t have said it better. A few of us came with lonely hearts, as we had lost our wives in recent years. And yes, Carole was my Ring Figure date.

So, I offer a tribute to my brother rats who came alone to this magnificent reunion whose wives are gone but not forgotten. God bless our class and VMI.” Lew Yeouze (Peachtree City, Georgia) wrote: “We started VMI as a bunch of teenage boys.

Over the years and now no longer young men, we’ve come to a much fuller appreciation of VMI as well as life and good friends.”

Paul Quillen (Cartersville, Georgia) had a fun experience while at the reunion – an experience of which I am envious. He wrote: “I went into the electrical engineering building and saw a colonel and some professors standing in the auditorium. It was obvious that a meeting had just finished and they were about to leave. So, I just walked inside the door of the auditorium and waited for them

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to finish their conversation to ask my question.

The colonel immediately walked over to me and saw my 50th nametag and asked if he could help me. I said yes, I graduated in electrical engineering 50 years ago and would like a tour to see if there had been any changes. He busted out laughing and signaled for an electrical engineering professor to come over and told him what I said. Professor Smith busted out laughing. Professor Smith said he’d be more than glad to give me a tour, let’s start by taking the elevator down to the 300 level. I said: ‘Elevator?’ Both of them busted out laughing again. Anyway, I got a great tour and was blown away. I thought I was at the Georgia Tech electrical engineering department.”

John Byrd (North Chesterfield, Virginia): “Margaret and I thoroughly enjoyed the reunion. We had a great time visiting with brother rats. Dean Kershaw did a wonderful job. I appreciate Skip and Kay Roberts (Lexington, Virginia) opening their home Thursday night. We enjoyed spending time with Peggy Simmons (Courtland, Virginia) and Joe and Diane Petitta (Safety Harbor, Florida). It was great to visit with Buddy and Carol Bryan ’71. We are looking forward to visiting with our roommates, Bill and Vicki Cobb (Pompano Beach, Florida), Rick and Ivy Butterworth (Hingham, MA), and Berry Wright (Ashland, Virginia) at Rick and Jane Brothers’ (Sedona, Arizona) place on Hatteras Island this coming September.

We don’t see each other often, but I do get together with Berry Wright on a regular basis. We enjoy spending time with our two granddaughters, ages 4 and 2, and our three children who live nearby.

I am still playing tenor sax in the Chesterfield Concert Band. I was inspired by Hal Hostetler (Portsmouth, Virginia), who plays in the Tidewater Concert Band. I continue to perform in private ventriloquist gigs. Last October, I held my first performance at a local theater which was open to the public. Please like my Facebook page, @john. byrd.ventriloquist.”

Now, the usual notes.

Wayne Burton wrote: “I spent Christmas with my son in California but could not wait to get home to my fiancée, Sylvia. By the time you read this, my bride and I will have been in Lexington for our reunion.”

Skip Anders (Mesa, Arizona): “Marta has been very busy trying to make her Etsy business a paying concern. My daughter, Elizabeth, married her longtime boyfriend just before Thanksgiving. It was a bit of a ‘spur of the moment’ thing, done by

the local justice of the peace, so the cost to dear old dad was minimal. Marta and I empty-nested it for a short while before job concerns caused the kids to move back in – hopefully temporarily. Just before Christmas, I got together with BR Ned Harris (Phoenix, Arizona), who snowbirds here in Arizona, for a few coffees at the local Dutch Brothers; we spent quite some time catching up. I have been working on my master’s degree off and on for a few years through American Military University (actually started the program when I was still teaching). I’m now working on the last requirement, the thesis, which I should have completed before the reunion.”

Tom Byrd (Berryville, Virginia): “I am retired after 47 years at our newspapers. Yesterday (March 6, 2018), it was announced that our two daily and four weekly newspapers have been sold to Ogden Newspapers of Wheeling, West Virginia. Our family has been publishing in Winchester for 120 years and in Harrisonburg since 1923. My son, Thomas W. Byrd, will continue with the new owner. He was the fifth generation of our family to manage The Winchester Star.”

Paul Chamberlin (Woodbridge, Virginia): “Highlights since graduating include a happy marriage to my dear wife, Kay, in 1974; three children; and five grandchildren, as well as a rewarding career as a specialist in Korean affairs that includes being a published author and a fun retirement since 2012.

“Some blind dates work out well. A friend and his wife introduced me to the ‘perfect girl for me.’

Skeptical but curious, I looked forward to meeting her May 15, 1972. We married a little over two years later and still look forward to another happy tomorrow.

“After leaving Lexington, I enjoyed the next 25 years in the regular Army, field artillery, and as a Northeast Asia foreign area officer specializing in the Koreas. My last two assignments were as a military attaché to our embassy in Seoul and politico-military adviser to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Colin Powell. For the next 24 years, I helped private companies with interests in Northeast Asia, wrote a number of published articles regarding the Koreas and served as an adjunct fellow with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, which, in 2001, published my ‘Korea 2010: The Challenges of the New Millennium.’ Retirement in 2012 provided more opportunities to enjoy golf, dancing and other passions with my bride.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes “In short, life since June 1968 has also been ‘good to me.’ But the four years at VMI made it possible for me to ‘become what I resolved to be.’”

Mike Robertson (Richland, Washington): “First 21 years after VMI were with Uncle Sam’s Army.

I enlisted to avoid the draft (1968). I distinctly remember our ROTC folks telling us they would communicate our status at the Institute with our local draft boards. Coming home after my academically-challenged 2nd Class year, I discovered that was BS. With my draft board hot on my heels thinking I was a draft dodger (nothing from the VMI ROTC people about my being in ROTC for three years), I enlisted in the Army for counterintelligence special agent 97B. I was going to be an Army James Bond. Come on, those recruiters never lie.

“Actually, it was a good 21 years. I served with a lot of great people. I picked up my warrant after only four years. Pretty good for a non-aviator. I met my wife-to-be while TDY to Fort Huachuca. I retired as a chief warrant officer 4. The new superwarrant ranks were just starting to open up; however, the only CW5 slot that interested me was in Munich. That was cut, so I decided to pull the pin and retire at 21 years. I had been offered a job at the FBI’s laboratory south of Washington, D.C. (I was a tech agent most of my military intelligence career.) But after learning it would take them six months to process my clearance and not being able to live in the D.C. area on my Army pension while waiting, I took a job with Battelle, which was operating Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in Richland, Washington. At that time, they had a contract with DOE to teach technical security countermeasures techniques to other DOE contractors. I was a telephone security

Class of 1968: Jim Burg visited with BRs at his home in Prescott, Arizona. ‘expert’ and had headed up the Army’s TSCM school at Fort Meade the last couple of years before I retired. So, they offered me an instructor’s slot, which I took. That lasted three years until DOE reduced the funding. Luckily, I was able to shift over to the lab’s telecom group as a voicemail admin. After a couple of years, my manager retired, and I took over the group. I was fortunate to manage the telecom group for 18 of my 24 years at the lab. I pulled the pin on my second career in July 2012.

“As I guess you can see from the volume of information I’ve provided above, I have too much time on my hands at the moment. But that also gives us time to spend with our three grandchildren who live nearby. We’ve got 6-year-old and 2-year-old granddaughters and a 5-year-old

Class of 1968: Billy Seargeant, Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 and Clay Mountcastle ’94 at the Virginia War Memorial March 29, 2018.

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grandson. We also have a 5-year-old granddaughter who lives in California with her dad. We don’t get to see her much. We do get to baby-sit quite a bit with the ones close by.”

Dana Duthie (Broomfield, Colorado): “I’m fully enjoying retirement now after 25 years flying fighters in the Air Force and 20 years running a water utility in Colorado Springs. Talk about a difference in jobs! Anyway, we moved up to Broomfield, a Denver suburb, to be closer to our daughter and her kids. We’ve been spending a lot of time in Vero Beach, Florida, where Candy’s folks are. They’re not doing too well, so Candy is down there quite often. We usually spend the bulk of the summer up in Steamboat Springs – by the way, lots of room, good golf, fishing, tubing, lying and drinking for any BR visiting the area. We also have been taking a bucket list trip or two every year. This year, it’s a Canadian Rockies train trip in September. Scotland, the Mediterranean and sailing in the Caribbean are on the list yet.”

John Hart (Staunton, Virginia): “Both my wife and I are retired now. I retired from the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality in 2003 and then worked as a contract watershed program manager for the city of Buena Vista for four years. This was watershed work done through the United States Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service. We got two debris basins and two bridges constructed before the federal money ended. Judy retired from the Staunton city school system in 2014. Our son, Matthew Hart ’99, works for Wells Fargo Bank in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, and our daughter is a vet tech at the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro, North Carolina. We have two-and-one-third grandchildren. Yes, our daughter is 13 weeks into

Class 1968: Clay Mountcastle ’94, director of the Virginia War Memorial, pinned Mike Gompf with a Vietnam veteran lapel pin to commemorating Mike’s Vietnam War service.

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Class Notes her first pregnancy. All of my vehicles have VMI in the license plates (VMI GRAD; VMI 1968; an antique tag, 99VMI68; and the popup trailer is 3VMI68).

“Last year, the VMI Foundation told me I was getting a brick in front of barracks, so I am hoping to see it during our reunion weekend. I saw Dean Kershaw at the Lexington National Guard Armory last fall. It was a presentation to Vietnam veterans for the 50th anniversary. Rep. Goodlatte made a presentation to each with a special Vietnam veteran pin.

“In summer 2017, I was on the national staff of the Boy Scout Jamboree in West Virginia. It was my 10th jamboree – two as a youth and eight as an adult. It also was my 1989 van’s seventh jamboree. Yes, I have driven the same van to last seven jamborees.”

Jack Andrews (Louisville, Kentucky): “Tilda and I are in California now (March 2018) for the wedding of our youngest son, MacLeod. He lives in Los Angeles. Son Jackson V, grandson Jackson VI and granddaughter Catherine are all in tow.

Great fun! Reminds me that on our first visit to L.A. six years ago, the Delta stewardess asked me where my ring was from. I said, ‘VMI.’ she said, ‘That’s where my daughter went; she’s now an officer serving in Afghanistan, written up in The New York Times!’ Proof VMI women are doing us proud! Good to me!”

Barry Archer (New Braunfels, Texas): “Iris and I are enjoying retirement here in the hill country of New Braunfels, Texas. We see Jim Fleming (New Braunfels, Texas) and his wife, Patty, quite often, as they live on the next street over in our subdivision about nine-tenths of a mile away (big subdivision) out here in the country. Iris and I spend most of our time enjoying the country music and activities nearby at Gruene Hall, the oldest continuously operated dance hall in Texas. For some of our time, we head on down to Rockport, Texas, where we have a second home and enjoy the Texas bay environment and seafood. We experienced some damage to that home from Hurricane Harvey last year, but we’ve finally repaired everything with the wonderful help of our wind insurance money.”

Lew Yeouze: “Turning 71 was great. I’m still a young man; 29 years shy of 100! Joyce and I are well and looking forward to being at the reunion.

Joyce and I are coming up on our 46th wedding anniversary. I am enjoying retirement. I retired as a principal from Mercer Consulting in 2010.

I did human resources health benefits consulting

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for large employers and state governments. I think that Joyce is tolerating the twice the husband, half the money bit.

“We are blessed with and enjoy our three married children and three grandchildren. We live southwest of Atlanta. We’ve been traveling a lot (at least by our standards) with multiple trips to the kids/grandkids each year (Richmond; Memphis; Columbia, South Carolina) and several international pleasure trips each year. We’ve been blessed with good health.

“I do some volunteer work with Atlanta innercity addiction recovery. Besides travel, I enjoy biking, kayaking, long walks, photography, our family and church family. We all owe much to VMI. It takes several years of life and life experiences to fully appreciate much of the foundation that we received at VMI (even if some of it was less than pleasant at the time).”

Dave Clark (Doswell, Virginia): “Sold the small business I had the summer before last. That’s made both Jean and me officially retired. Still living on 10 acres near Ashland, Virginia. Enjoy it thoroughly, but the 10 acres gets bigger each year.

I still have my rental properties to keep me busy.

“My daughter is a pediatric dentist at the Medical College of Virginia and lives 45 minutes from us. She adopted a 2-year-old named Jacob about a year ago. We visit them when we can and sit for Jacob once in a while. It’s a real treat, but it takes two of us. My son got out of the Air Force a couple of years ago, having served for 12 years. After living in Nevada, California and Texas, we are glad to have him and his family 45 minutes north of us in Fredericksburg. He is an engineer working for the Navy at Dahlgren. He has a son, Matthew, and a daughter, Rebecca, ages 5 and 8. The kids have sleepovers at our place, keeping us busy. We had all seven of them here for Thanksgiving and Easter.

“We’ve done a little traveling with friends to London/Paris/Rome a few years ago and a week in Ireland two years ago. Planning a Grand Canyon area trip this fall. We went to pilot training class 70-03 reunion in Tucson (48 years) and The Citadel game with Gil Piddington (Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania) and Clay Thompson (Salisbury, Maryland) and their wives last fall. For the last few years, we have spent a week at the beach in the summer with our daughter and her family.

Hopefully, our son can join us this year.”

Dave Avery (Lyme, New Hampshire): “We stopped by the museum at Carlisle, Pennsylvania,

on our way back to New Hampshire. I’ve been to the museums at Fort Knox; Fort Benning; Fort Lee; the ordnance museum at Aberdeen; and the Medical Museum of the Civil War at Frederick, Maryland, but Carlisle is doing something a bit different. Where the others tend to be large collections of artifacts with identifying cards, the Carlisle museum is trying to tell a concept, what it was like to serve at different times. It’s notable for having full-scale reproductions of some field fortifications, for example: Redoubt No. 10 at Yorktown, a soldier’s cabin at Valley Forge, a German bunker from Utah beach, a segment of a World War I trench, a team house from Vietnam and a World War II mess hall and motor pool shop.

“Maybe because it’s at the War College, but there was a lot of attention to detail. The barbed wire at the German bunker is real German army wire, not agricultural barbed wire bought at the farmers’ co-op. They got the structures right, but sadly not the smell. I guess expecting the A team hut to smell like a real hut in the Republic of Vietnam is a bridge too far for even the War College. I thought it was very nicely done.”

Steve Powers (Malvern, Pennsylvania): “What is it about Billy Davis that seems to forever place him in our memory? Kevin Henry (Winston Salem, North Carolina) is kind enough to put together the ‘WGD ’68 golfathon’ every spring to honor Groovy. Many of us make it a priority on our calendar. During our reunion weekend, I, like many from the class, visited the Stonewall Jackson Cemetery. The grave markers for Billy and his wife, Janice, are located close to the cemetery office. As I stood there, I reflected back on the great memories I have of him. He was my roommate, No. 1 basketball fan, brother rat and friend. Many times before a big home game, Billy would look me right in the eye and say; ‘Powers, you have been wrong too long ... you better be right tonight!’”

Billy Seargeant (Fredericksburg, Virginia): “I have been intending to send out a group photo of the VMI guys who were at the Vietnam War event at the Virginia War Memorial March 29, 2018, but got busy with other events. I was particularly impressed with Governor Northam ’81 spending quality time with each Vietnam veteran in the line at this event.”

Tommy Norment (Williamsburg, Virginia): “I still live in Williamsburg, where I continue to enjoy practicing law full time with a large firm as a trial attorney. As an avocation, I teach two classes each semester at William & Mary to juniors and

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes seniors in the government department and thirdyear law students. It is stimulating and keeps me youthful.

“When I have a few minutes, I continue to be in the Virginia Senate, where I have been for 28 years (many say 27 too long!) and serve as the majority leader and cochairman of the Senate Finance Committee that writes the Virginia budget.

It has allowed me to form an effective partnership with the remarkable General Peay ’62 to enhance bricks and mortar at VMI. I stay in touch with my ‘357 forever’ roommates of Bucky Miller (Wilton, Connecticut), Chips McCallum (Norfolk, Virginia) and Krita Kritakara (Bangkok, Thailand).

We are planning a trip to Thailand in 2019 to visit Krita. I have two wonderful grandkids who live in the same subdivision as I do, which makes being a grandparent a lot easier.”

Vic Huang (Cupertino, California): “Shirley and I are at Dulles airport en route to St. Petersburg, Russia, where we will be embarking on a Baltic cruise, ending up in St. Petersburg in 10 days.

There, I will be attending an Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers conference on industrial cyber-physical systems and giving a talk. So, this is sort of a birthday present where we get a chance to see the Scandinavian countries (actually ports/capitals) and experience some of the ‘midnight sun.’”

Wes Padgett (Montgomery, Alabama): “I officially retired from the working world the last day of March. Ruth retired earlier, about three years ago. Together, we’re now trying to figure out what we’re going to be since we’ve grown up! Ruth is already a certified master gardener, while I currently serve as her muscle. We’ve also been playing a bit more golf. I continue to serve as the president of our church choir and sing in the Montgomery Chorale. I’m sure I’ll eventually tire of looking for things to do and find somewhere to volunteer.

For now, it’s just nice to be able to do anything we want. We’ll be visiting grandchildren later this month and up at the University of Vermont later this year for Ruth’s 50th reunion. We hope to see some leaf color up there but certainly not looking for any snow!”

Tayo Leduc (Hiawassee, Georgia): “We celebrated our 39th wedding anniversary Jan. 28 to start the year off right. Now, we are going to Florida for our granddaughter’s college graduation May 18, followed by a grandson’s high school graduation in Fishersville, Virginia, May 21. Then back to Florida for a week of R&R with our son

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in Marco Island, where the fishing is never bad.

“I still work part time at the local hardware store here in Hiawassee. I still have fun and it keeps me out of Betty’s way while she bakes all kinds of goodies. People often ask me why I don’t weigh 300 pounds with all her baking. Simple: We give most of it away to all of our ‘taster’ friends. People are always willing to try dessert any day of the week.”

Rick Eades (Ridgeland, Mississippi – in May): “[At the reunion] I stayed in the six-man dorm room in the basement area of Moody Hall and was fortunate to have front row views and experiences of the post for four days. I have fully retired from two S corporation businesses that I owned.

At present, my wife, Suzanne, and I plan to move to Gulfport, Mississippi, where I have been remodeling a condo. It is on the seventh floor of a condo tower and was not affected by any of the hurricanes, including Katrina. We are about an hour from New Orleans, as well as the same from Mobile. For all of you touring cyclists, there are bike lanes and routes from Alabama to New Orleans and plenty of good restaurants to stop at when traveling. The bridges at Ocean Springs and Bay St. Louis have dedicated and protected bike and walk lanes. My condo is on the route, so anyone riding that route, call ahead for a warm shower, good bed, cold beer and terrific views of the ocean.

If needed, I do some bike mechanic work, and a bike shop is close by.”

Rick Brothers (Sedona, Arizona): “Ned Harris, Roy Dornsife (Casa Grande, Arizona), Skip Anders and I spent a great early afternoon visiting Jim Burg at his home in Prescott Valley, Arizona! A fun time catching up with everyone and exchanging our life histories after graduation from the Institute! Jim Burg is one tough hombre and an exemplary example of what VMI men are made of!”

Tom Hickey (Clarksville, Maryland): I’ll begin by telling you that my third grandchild, a grandson named Nathan Ian Dexter, was born in December 2017. He has a provisional appointment (as do his two sisters), but I can’t get their mother to display them. I guess I’ll have to work on those three when their mother isn’t in the room.

In conclusion, I want to acknowledge the remarkable kindness and generosity shown by the class’ establishment of an endowment in my honor. After some reflection, I’ve named it the Thomas and Rosemary Hickey 1968 Endowed Scholarship. For 42 years, I made my living

maintaining, developing and operating Department of Defense and NASA software systems. In addition to the life lessons taught by the VMI “system,” I learned fundamental engineering skills in the electrical engineering major at VMI and took my first computer programming course from Dr. Balazs of the electrical engineering department.

Therefore, I’ve asked that the endowment be used to provide financial assistance to cadets majoring in electrical and computer engineering, or computer and information sciences, or successor majors. I am humbled by the class’ demonstration of the bonds between us through the establishment of this endowment. You do me a great honor, and I am deeply appreciative.

1969

Walter Judd

Greetings, brother rats and friends of the slightly smaller Class of 1969.

This has been a tough stretch of days for our class, with five brother rats passing around their 71st birthdays. It has also been a busy time with lots of conversation and ideas floating around about our coming 50th Reunion weekend less than a year away. April 25-28, 2019, is the time we plan to spend together at VMI, in Lexington and in Rockbridge County.

Tom McLeod (T.C. to many of us) died Dec. 18, 2017, at his home in Florida. His wife, Bunny, said there was no obituary, but I did gather a few tidbits about his life after VMI. Tom was in the Army and stationed in Germany. He moved to Florida many years ago and had the distinction of being a captain on three different types of people-moving boats at Walt Disney World in the Orlando area.

Bunny told me they had almost 15 years together after getting married in Martinsville, Virginia.

Tom left no children.

We learned in March that BR James McHugh died in December in Arizona. Jim attended VMI for a year and then enlisted in the Army. He went to officer training school and served in Vietnam.

His obituary follows: “James E. McHugh, born Oct. 16, 1947, in Washington, D.C., the son of Colonel James McHugh and Alice Zeiler McHugh and younger brother to Nancy McHugh.

Jim was raised in Virginia, with some time spent

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Class Notes in Germany and Tucson. In 1966 [after a year at nieces and nephews in Virginia, North Carolina showed these words: “Tompkins, Hugh Harrison, VMI], Jim entered the Army as a private. He was and Cleveland. Amo was a 1969 Virginia Military of Key Largo, Florida, and Bethesda, Maryland, Institute grad and a proud brother rat. An officer a true gentleman loved by all, died April 18, 2018. sent to officer training and, in 1967 was commissioned a first lieutenant. Jim served in Vietnam in the Marine Corps, Amo served during Vietnam Born in Richmond, Virginia, Oct. 21, 1946, to the then went on to sell commercial explosives and late Rhoda Davis Taylor Tompkins and William and was discharged in 1969 as a U.S. Army captain. Jim went to work for Veterans Affairs in D.C. be a professional hot air balloon pilot. He was a Fraser Tompkins Jr. He is survived by his devoted and transferred to the Phoenix office in 1974. man of the world, having lived in 26 cities and wife, Constance Corby Tompkins; four daughters, Not one for indoor office work, Jim quit the VA countries, including Taiwan and Australia, before Candice Corby Mulcahy, Laura Corby Tanner, to start his own business and enjoy the outdoors. arriving in Cleveland in 1999. He was the general Elizabeth Corby Brooks and Mary Corby Wolff; four sons-in-law, Edward James Mulcahy III, He started Mostly Tennis and taught tennis at the manager of Crow Executive Air, an air ambulance Gregory Charles Tanner, David Church Brooks Kiwanis Tennis Center and Gene Autry Sports and jet charter company. He was kindest, smartComplex. He also coached girls’ tennis at Gilbert est, funniest person most of us knew. He loved to Jr. and Daniel Paul Wolff; “Grumpy” to 10 High School, Highland High School and lastly cook, travel, play golf, cheer on the Indians and grandchildren; and three brothers, William Fraser at Westwood High School. Jim was an avid outBrowns, drink Manhattans and volunteer in his Tompkins III (Dorothy), Seldon Taylor Tompkins doorsman, enjoying running, hiking, camping and beloved Tremont neighborhood. He saw humor (Donna) and Benjamin Temple Tompkins. He tennis. Jim lost his battle with melanoma Dec. 8, in virtually any situation, often irreverently. If a graduated from St. Christopher’s School in 1965 2017. He is survived by his sister, Nancy McHugh, man is judged by how long he keeps wonderful and Virginia Military Institute in 1969, where and longtime friends, Al and Carolyn Sinclair and friends in his life, Amo was rich beyond words. he was a starting defensive tackle for the football family; Ed, Adrienne and Paige Sloat, and Amy An Irish wake for family and close friends to team. He proudly served as a second lieutenant Novotny. A celebration of Jim’s life was held Feb. toast Amo and share stories is being planned for in the United States Army and received a Bronze the Memorial Day weekend. If you would like Star in the Vietnam War. He had a lasting career 3, 2018, at The Falls Event Center, Gilbert, Arito support the causes Amo loved, here are a few in residential real estate and general contracting. zona.”

Lewis Boggs died in February in California. choices: WCPN, Cleveland’s NPR affiliate (1375 Tremendously supportive, Hugh was happiest surVMI received the following obit: “Lewis ‘Alec’ Euclid Avenue Cleveland, OH 44115); Tremont rounded by his wife, daughters, family, friends and Boggs V, of San Diego, California, died Feb. 19, West Development Corp (2406 Professor Avenue, dogs. He loved tennis, swimming, skiing, being on 2018. Lewis was a graduate of Prince George Cleveland, OH 44113) or Virginia Military Instithe water in Cape Cod and music. Hugh was an High School in Virginia and Virginia Military tute, the school that set the path for the rest of his avid car enthusiast with a true passion for vintage Institute, Lexington, Virginia. He served with the life (VMI Foundation, P.O. Box 932, Lexington, car racing. A man to be admired, he was devoted First Air Cavalry in Vietnam. After leaving active VA 24450).” Margy told Bob Heely that Amo to his church and giving back to his community duty, he began a 30-year constituency career. He was on the treadmill beside her, and suddenly he at the Southeast White House in Washington, is survived by his daughters, Alexis Potaman and dropped. His passing was all too quick.

D.C. Hugh was the epitome of charm and will alAshtyn Boggs, of Texas; father, Lewis Alexander Hugh Harrison Tompkins died in mid-April ways be remembered for his wry sense of humor, Boggs IV, and brother, James Boggs, of Virginia; at his winter home in Florida. From The Washwarmth and kindness. A memorial service was and brother, Robert Boggs, and nephew, Travis ington Post came these words: “Of Key Largo, held at All Saints Church in Chevy Chase, MaryBoggs, of Kansas. He was predeceased by his Florida, and Bethesda, Maryland, [Hugh] died land, at 3 p.m. Saturday, April 28. In lieu of flowmother, Marold Dunlop Boggs. No services will April 18, 2018. Beloved husband of Constance ers, donations in his honor to the Southeast White be held. Memorial donations may be made to the Tompkins. Loving father of Candice (Ned), Laura House (D.C. Dream Center) are encouraged.”

National Domestic Violence Hotline at TheHot(Greg), Elizabeth (Dave) and Mary (Danny) and Lee Stillwell sent a wonderful tribute to Hugh as 10 grandchildren.” The Richmond newspaper the word spread among BRs. “Hugh and I stayed line.org/donate.” in touch over the years with his racing at VirAmo Judd’s wife, Margy, wrote this tribginia International Raceway. He was a pro ute for the Cleveland, Ohio, newspaper: at racing and finding a home cooked meal.

“Amo Frank Judd, age 71, born April 3, 1947, died April 11, 2018. The world turned He always came with flowers and wine, and a little less fun last Wednesday when Amo my wife, Susan, would cook dinner fit for a died suddenly. Adored best friend and husking or, in this case, a Hugh. He was a great band of Margy Judd (née Russell) for the friend to many and an inspiration to all.” past 17 years. Born in Dallas, Texas, Amo Lee Barnes wrote: “I will never forget the ‘Cinderella season of 1967.’ Hugh was the was the oldest of the four boys of Amo Class of 1969: Bob Alexander, M.D., was part of a small defensive tackle playing right next to me, the F. Judd Jr. and Mary Jane Judd (both defleet available to assist competitors at the 2018 U.S. Nadefensive end. It was our job to hold down ceased). He loved his brothers, Bob Judd tional Windsurfing Association Nationals. The competition was held April 27, 2018, in Seaford, Virginia. Alexanthe entire right side of the line! What a great (Raylene) of Chesapeake, Virginia; David der co-owns the refurbished Mariner II with his brother, guy and even greater player!” Charlie Bryan AKA Chico (Susan) of Norfolk, Virginia; David Alexander ’73. wrote in remembering “Rhoda” [Hugh]: “I and Larry Judd (deceased), and his many

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes can’t help but remember Rhoda and his princess phone. He was one of eight guys in our class who was an alumnus of St. Christopher’s School in Richmond, the most of any class in VMI history.”

We checked the records, and actually, there were nine BRs from that prep school. Ned Caldwell joined the group their senior year and came on to VMI. So, the nine were Ned Caldwell, Pat Branch, Larry Brydon, George Budd, Frank Easterly, Knox Hubard, Kirk Materne, Hugh Tompkins and Frank Webb. I am pleased to say the remaining seven are doing well and still making positive contributions. I have to say Frank Easterly apparently likes California, where he remains the oldest dad in our class with a toddler running around his house. Pat Branch celebrated the graduation of his step-daughter from the Virginia Commonwealth University medical school (we know it as MCV) May 11 and, most days, can be found at his desk at the brokerage firm of Davenport and Co., LLC. Larry Brydon recently moved back to New York City where his son is an actor, and Dr. George Budd lives out on Virginia’s Eastern Shore. Knox Hubard and Kirk Materne are retired and live near water: Knox in Virginia’s Middle Peninsula and Kirk in Naples, Florida.

Former Army pilot Ned is in the Richmond area.

Larry and I talked via email, and he reminded me after a conversation about downsizing that it was good to be a brother rat and bad – very bad – to be a pack rat. He has such a way with words of truth!

Glenn White and I attended the annual VMI meets the General Assembly reception/party Feb. 2 in Richmond. We were joined by BRs Mike Santoro and Richie Daub and a host of others.

As usual, there were many faculty members and cadets mingling with the alumni and friends in the Virginia General Assembly. I enjoyed seeing many of the people from the alumni offices and catching up with lots of former cadets and their wives. Glenn was once again lucky to find a parking space behind the building we were heading for.

Our timing was superb.

I spent a lot of time this winter transcribing your survey results into a spreadsheet for Charlie Bryan to read and analyze. More than 60 of you have responded so far, and we hope more will soon. Your reasons for coming to VMI are many and varied, as are your levels of preparedness for the Rat Line.

The collection of responses makes fascinating reading for me as your collector of tales and remembrances. I suspect we will be collecting those surveys for several more months, so send yours in

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to me or Charlie sooner than later.

Our class website is now active. www.vmi69. com takes you to Jim Campbell’s masterpiece of matching web technology with names and pictures of our classmates along the way. Visit often!

You can also follow us on Facebook at the class group established by Mike Santoro [with help from his daughter who is a lot more Facebook savvy then he, so he says]. “VMI Class of 1969” is a popular place to visit and share times present or gone by. I have enjoyed reading several stories from “back then” and seeing photos of people I can almost recognize. I encourage you to follow the action on the page.

Bob Waldo and the social committee have not met this quarter but will May 30. Jim Long has been active, however, and we have signed a contract for an informal meal the Saturday night of the reunion at our base of operations, the Holiday Inn Express in east Lexington. Rick Camp is working on original music, and many BRs are contributing photos for various collections. Our gift items are still under development, and several great ideas are being explored by Dave Prugh and Tom Morris. Knox Hubard is working with the committee as a “chair for the day” to ensure our first day of official actions during the reunion is interesting and fulfilling.

As part of the reunion planning, Jamie Totten supplied a list of BRs who were once part of the soccer and lacrosse teams our 2nd and 1st Class years. There was thought that that group of players were the first to play those sports at VMI and that they might have started what are now NCAA sports teams. Alas, I did some checking and interviewed Dr. Dave Diles, VMI director of intercollegiate athletics. He has his staff did some research and found we may have started the teams during our cadetship, but there had been earlier efforts for cadets to play both of those sports. Instead of credit for starting something unique and lasting, we were given credit for restarting earlier efforts and joining others who enjoyed playing those sports.

Both sports are now big deals at VMI and enjoy competing at the NCAA level. Good work, BRs! On April 30, Jamie Totten and Bunny Paulette greeted the fundraising team for our class at supper at the Commonwealth Club in Richmond. We ate a meal together and reconnected with BRs from around the country. Bob Clingenpeel from Arizona and Dr. Chris Brothers from New Mexico came the furthest and got to visit Virginia relatives while in the area. Doug Marks and Jim Hitchcock

came up from South Carolina, and Chunkie Neale made it from Florida. Mike Harper flew in from Kentucky, and Ron Wall made the journey from North Carolina. Tom Jones joined us from Georgia. From various places in Virginia came Charlie Bryan, Bob Flint, John Ishon, Bob Flowers, Win Winfree, Bob Heely, Mike Santoro, Tom Morris, Bruce Gregory, Joe Lynch, Ron Stead, Bobby Watts, Bob Waldo and me. A few others could not make the trip this time. Jay Hoenig had just returned from a trip consulting in Thailand and China and elected not to climb aboard another plane immediately after getting home.

To celebrate getting together with friends that evening, Tom Morris, Bob Heely and I met Mike Santoro in the morning at the Independence Golf Club in southwest Richmond for a round of golf and laughter. Mike had moved into a new home on the course last fall and was eager to give the course a looksee. It was Tom’s birthday, so we enjoyed giving him lots of attention.

On May 1, the gaggle moved over to Bunny’s company site and met for the morning discussing ideas for the reunion in April 2019. Jamie, Bunny, Charlie and Mike Harper led the discussions on the mechanics of fundraising. Our first agreement was our No. 1 goal for the reunion: Reach out to brother rats to encourage them to attend the reunion. Attendance is key. When any of us has talked to a person who has already attended their 50th Reunion, the message is almost always the same: They got a real kick out of seeing so many of their old buddies and brother rats. We intend to make our time together just as memorable. And our goal is to have more than 100 BRs show up for the fun. Secondly, if there is a willingness for individuals to give something to an activity or organization at VMI, we will make the act of donating as easy as possible. There are many ways to give these days, and our fundraising team has been prepared on how to help or when to ask for assistance from the professionals at VMI. Expect some calls from a brother rat over the next few months as we garner support and encourage attendance for our reunion. If your contact info is not current, please advise me and let me pass on the correct info to our team members. My contact info is always at the beginning of my class notes columns in the Alumni Review.

Speaking of fundraising, let me review a topic near to my heart. The “bricks on the bricks” program. As cadets leave Old Barracks via Jackson Arch, they only have to turn left a few feet before

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Class Notes they are walking over our class section of bricks.

Nearly 150 of us have donated at least $2,500 since 1998 to some VMI entity and have “earned” our brick. There is room for many more bricks in our class area, and if we run out of room, we will just push some other group back a bit. There are specific times each year when new bricks are added to the sidewalk, so you will want to take care of your part of this action this year to ensure your name is on a brick in our section by next spring’s reunion.

If you have questions, please ask me, and I will get you the answers you desire. Some BRs have given much more through the years and have earned as many as five bricks. Those extra bricks are sometimes offered in memory of BRs who have died or to other family members with a class connection.

Once again, I can help you with how to use your contributions to honor someone else if you wish.

Brother Rats and friends, I cannot say it any more clearly. There are a lot of BRs working on committees and contact groups at this time, and their goal is the same across the board. Our job is to invite you to be part of our 50th Reunion next April, and our hope is you will make arrangements to be there. No one can predict the future, and we want you to take advantage of this opportunity to be part of the class again for just a few days. You will see physical changes to the Institute and its environs, and you might need a nametag to recognize your old friends and comrades-in-arms.

Be a part of the activity and share a little with the rest of us who plan to be there. It is going to be a blast!

In the spirit, Walt

1970

Warren Grasty

As most of you already know, we lost Brother Rat George Bach March 24. George had evidently struggled financially ever since helping with his parents’ and his own fights with cancer years ago. Unfortunately, none of us knew how tough he had it so that we might have been able to help in some way. George and I shared the same room our first night in barracks and spent more than a few Friday nights during summer school(s) cruising around Lexington and Buena Vista in my ’49

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hemi-humpback Dodge. I can’t remember a single time I saw him when he didn’t have that wry smile on his face, like he knew something that you didn’t that you should. I think I may have related the following vignette in a previous issue. If I did, suck it up, because here it comes again. One summer evening after dinner at club Crozet, George asked me for a ride back up to New Barracks, where we both resided during summer school after our less-thanimpressive rat year. As I already had a carload (Justin Blickensderfer, Chip Humphrey and Bob Wood, if memory serves), George said he would hop up on the hood, which sounded like a great idea at the time. Unfortunately, I had forgotten that I had set the manual brake when I parked before supper, so by the time we made the top of the hill and were coming around the corner in front of barracks, sparks were flying and smoke was streaming from under the car. More unfortunately, Stacey Harris just happened to be leaving Jackson Arch then. Let’s just say that he was not amused. I hope some of the good memories from times like this with his brother rats provided at least a little comic relief for George as he dealt with life. Rest in peace, brother rat.

On a happier note, due to the tremendous response by our brother rats during the VMI Day of Giving May 7, Moe will be wearing VMI jersey No. 70 at all VMI athletic events during the upcoming academic year. Thanks again to each of you who responded and to Ralph Costen for tipping me off to this somewhat underpublicized competition.

Speaking of Chip Humphrey, he uncovered an old 8mm film of the Corps marching into Victory Stadium Thanksgiving Day 1967 – the day, I humbly add, we whupped the Hokies 12-10, but who’s counting? Chip had this transferred to a DVD at the request of Tom Hickey ’68 for their 50th Reunion in April, so he sent me a copy, as well. As a Roanoke rat, that was an extra special weekend, and it was fun watching the festivities knowing what was to play out that afternoon – other than Julian Smith’s injury, of course.

Another Roanoke rat, Dewey George, has recently returned to his and Brenda’s roots in the Star City of the south, where he plans to continue running his government contracting business. I didn’t know Dewey back then, since we went to different high schools, but I fondly remember the rhythm and blues band I was in playing at George’s Rendezvous restaurant and bar in downtown Roanoke, which was owned by his Uncle George and

Aunt Effie. Great people. After each gig, there was always ample pizza, burgers and fries for eight of us hungry lads.

In case you did not see this in a recent Institute Report and the last Alumni Review, Dave Miller was recognized for his generous gift to VMI to fund the Col. Alexander H. Morrison ’39 Institute Professorship in Economics and Business. We are indeed fortunate to have so many brother rats who are so generous with their time and money.

Congratulations to the following brother rats and their families on the recent arrivals of grandchildren. Jim and Susie Gillespie got their first taste of grandparenthood with the arrival of Theodore Patrick Gillespie March 2 to their youngest son, Jonathan, and his wife, Loran. Taze and Katherine Taylor also became first-time grandparents with the birth of a baby girl to their son and daughter-in-law in Charlotte, North Carolina. Jim and Judy Mawyer welcomed grandchild No. 6, Virginia Mae Hypes, who was born to daughter Peyton and son-in-law Mark Hypes May 8, which is also Jim’s birthday. Trying desperately to catch up, A.C. and Beth Arnn added two grandchildren to their expanding dynasty. Caroline Paige Parrish was born to daughter Sarah and son-in-law Michael Parrish March 22 in Burlington, North Carolina. Eleanor Ruth Arnn was born to son Patrick and wife Jessica in Washington state April 29, where Jessica, Eleanor and older daughter Adelaide are staying with Jessica’s mother until Patrick returns from South Korea. Hopefully, he will then be assigned to Shaw Air Force Base where they will be near the proud grandparents.

In January and February, Kent and Judy Schlussel traveled to South America. Their experiences getting there sound more exciting than what they did while they were there. After three flights out of Charlottesville to Easter Island via Santiago and Atlanta were canceled due to winter storms, they drove to Dulles to catch a flight the next day. Then, on the four-and-a-a half-hour flight from Santiago to Easter Island, the plane turned around after two hours over the Pacific due to an “air conditioner problem.” I can imagine it would be hard to find Freon on Easter Island. Once they finally got there, they had a native Easter Islander for a tour guide.

Kent said that the stories he told about the massive Moai statues were much better than the standard academic explanations. After three nights, they traveled onward to Patagonia, which took them through Chile and Argentina. In March, they traveled to Columbia with Kent’s brother, Neil ’67,

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes where he says they felt surprisingly safe. Evidently, Nov. 11, 1939, issue of the Saturday Evening Post Walker, Gary Weishaar and moi. The only mismost of the local drug lords have invested in real that featured VMI on the cover. Well done, Diehl; haps this year were on the course, where Tommy estate which is causing somewhat of a building many happy returns to Col. Sherman and thanks blew out something in his forearm on the first hole boom. They also took a side trip to see how coffee to the many brother rats who sent him birthday one day and had to head home early. Such power cards. Thanks also to Dick Knight, class agent is hard to control. is grown, processed and marketed.

Kent also mentioned that, way back in 2000, he for the Class of 1935, for making us aware of this Meanwhile, some of the GOMBACS golf widobtained a provisional appointment for grandson grand occasion. ows headed to Asheville, North Carolina, for a The annual GOMBACS golf extravaganza Ethan Schlussel. This month, after having has long weekend. Joining Liz in the festivities were been offered an Air Force ROTC scholarship and in Myrtle Beach was moved from February to June Bailey, Nancy Chandler, Judy Mawyer, an Institute scholarship, Ethan decided to Margaret Walker and Lynn Weishaar. go to VMI and will be majoring in meThey toured the Vanderbilt mansion, which was populated with mannequins chanical engineering. He chose VMI over decked out in garb from the movie “Tithe University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Virginia Commonwealth University, West tanic.” And to think I missed that for golf.

Virginia University and Case Western ReIn April, Jimi and John returned to Myrserve University. Kent and Judy posted a tle Beach with Judy and June and spent nice picture of Ethan holding his provia few days at the Marina Inn at Grande Dunes where they got in some golf with sional appointment on the VMI’70 FaceMike Smith ’73. While there, they ran book page. Well done, Ethan! And Kent! into Gordon Williams, who was there on Hoping for a similar result, in April, Phil a golf trip.

Anderson took grandson Stanley Petren, As is my habit, following GOMBACS I VMI Class of 2032, to Legacy Day on post where he had a great time. He wants Class of 1970: Judy and Kent Schlussel in Parque Nacio- rode with Stix back to his home in Orange nal Los Glaciares, Argentina, in February.

Park, Florida, for that weekend’s oyster to play basketball, so he had his picture roast. While there, I attended as his guest taken standing next to 6 foot 10 inch Keya lunch meeting of the Jacksonville Chapdet basketball player, Cadet Tyler Creammer ’20. I am happy to report that Phil ter of the Florida Society of the Sons of has recovered from his bouts with kidney the American Revolution, of which Stix stones and blood clots earlier this year. is past president. The guest speaker gave Also on the medical front, Chip Hatcher a very interesting talk on the life and times wrote in from Georgia that, just after retirof Maj. Gen. Nathanael Greene, where I learned, among other things, how he ing from the civil engineering profession, spelled his first name. he went in for neck surgery for damaged Those of you on Facebook have been vertebrae and spinal cord compression. It able to follow several brother rats on their turns out he sustained these injuries when recent trips around the world, quite literhe was on the VMI wrestling team back in the day. I guess you could say he wrestled ally in the case of Reed and Carol Hedwith that decision for quite a long time. In dleston, who have just returned from an any case, he has six weeks of rehab to look around-the-world Viking cruise. And forward to.

Class of 1970: Bob Costigan, Tommy Cooke, Jim Mawyer, Steve Craddock has been documenting Phil Jornlin is looking forward to his A.C. Arnn, Gary Weishaar, Gray Chandler, Herb Braun, Bill his and Sherrie’s trip to Scotland and Iremandatory six-week home leave this sum- Huffman, Charlie Walker, John Bailey, David Schmidt, Tom land. Liz and I are dutifully taking notes, Massey, Mike Snead, Warren Grasty and Snead Luck gathmer from his assignment in Cyprus. Hav- ered for the 2018 GOMBACS in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, as we are headed to Ireland for two weeks in August. ing spent years working in less developed in March. Not pictured: Ralph Costen.

Over the spring, several brother rats were environments, he remembers the culture able to see a very good Keydet baseball team in shock he experienced on his previous home leave March this year in hopes of minimizing the risk of when he first encountered an automated ordering frostbite while playing golf. The gambit worked, action. Ned Haley and Steve Talley made a day although that didn’t improve the level of golf at trip to Lexington May 13 to see them play Wofstation at McDonalds.

And now for the feel-good story of this issue. all. This year’s combatants were A.C. Arnn, John ford College, a game they lost in extra innings after On March 14, Diehl Jones traveled to Southern Bailey, trip meister Herb Braun, Gray Chandler, having come back from an 8 to 1 deficit. Earlier, Pines, North Carolina, to visit with Jim Sherman Tommy Cooke, Ralph Costen, Bob Costigan, Paul Dickinson said he ran into Dick Cheatham ’35, VMI’s oldest living alumnus who turned 104 Bill Huffman, Snead Luck, Tom Massey, Jim and Peel Dillard in Richmond at the VMI versus March 30. Diehl presented him with a copy of the Mawyer, David Schmidt, Mike Snead, Charlie Virginia Commonwealth University game, which

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Class Notes the Keydets won 4-1. Paul also attended a VMI versus the University of Richmond game but had to leave after eight innings, so he missed the Keydets’ nine-run outburst in the top half of the 10th inning. The following weekend, he and Judy saw Taze and Katherine Taylor at a wedding in Charlottesville, where they were able to reconnect and make up more war stories.

Cameron Seay reported that the first official event of the Valley Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association, a presentation on the Battle of New Market, was a big success. “Our speaker, Waite Rawls, gave a super talk about VMI’s representation at Gettysburg (14 of 15 of Pickett’s regiments were commanded by VMI men) and throughout the Civil War. He also answered well some hard questions during the Q&A. We had around 35 alums and wives there, including BR Don Crawford and his wife, Lois, and Lt. Col. Troy Marshall, site director at the battlefield and Virginia Museum of the Civil War, gave a tour and joined us for dinner, along with six or eight of his costumed volunteers.

A good time was had by all!” Their next event will be a rat send-off in early August. Congratulations to Cameron, Don and all the others who worked to get this chapter up and running.

Jon Vordermark checked in from New Mexico, where he is concerned that they are looking at another hot, dry summer. Ahem, Jon. You live in a desert. Anyway, he reported that in February he submitted a book for publication titled “Problemsolving and Decision-making in Medicine: A Practical Approach.” It was written for people in medical training rather than for academics, which appears to be an unaddressed market. Which sounds like just what the doctor ordered, so to speak.

Also from out West, Glenn Kuntz reported on several brother rat sightings in Park City, Utah.

One day, he was skiing with Jesse Glidewell, who lives on the other side of the mountain, and several days later, he was lunching with Bob and Kathy Candido who were on a ski vacation. Glenn also had a special request of me pursuant to the all-toofrequent emails I have had to send around regarding recent funerals for alumni. So, just in case I pass before him, whoever is left standing should be aware of his wishes, to wit: “I’m fairly healthy and don’t anticipate death in the near future, but if I should die while you’re still class agent, please make sure there are no bagpipes within a mile of my funeral. It is always shocking to me that Beethoven created beautiful symphonies while

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he was deaf, yet the guys who invented those cacophonous bagpipes presumably had normal hearing. Seems like it should have been the other way around.” In that case, Glenn, you probably wouldn’t enjoy a VMI parade, either. All of which reminds me of the cartoon of a beggar with a bagpipe sitting on the curb with a sign that reads, “Will play bagpipe for $10. Will stop playing for $20.”

I don’t think I can top that, so I’ll stop. I look forward to seeing many of you during the upcoming football season. Be sure to check out the VMI’70 Facebook page for 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.

In the spirit!

served as a pilot with the Military Airlift Command. He was an avid supporter of VMI and was a trustee for both the VMI Foundation and the Keydet Club. He is survived by his wife of 42 years, Karen; sons, Erik and Carl; two sisters; one brother; and three grandchildren. A visitation was held Friday, May 4, 2018, in Warrenton. A

1971

Jim Kelly

These notes cover the period of Feb. 15, 2018, through May 15, 2018.

As I began these notes, Kathryn and I were in Richmond looking after our grandchildren, Lauren and Ryan, while their parents were on a weeklong trip to Cabo, Mexico. No longer do we “baby-sit,” since both children are now fullfledged teenagers. Richmond is a beautiful city in the month of May with the azaleas, dogwoods and many other trees and flowers in bloom. The downside is that there is an unbelievable amount of yellow pollen that coats everything, and I am sure it is not a fun time for allergy sufferers. Even a daily washing of the cars is a waste of time. According to Lauren, Richmond has the 13th highest pollen level in the United States (unconfirmed, but certainly possible).

I am saddened once again to report the death of another brother rat. E.C.A. “Ted” Wachtmeister died at his home April 26, 2018. He had battled inclusion body myositis for many years, and at the time of his death had developed pneumonia. Ted matriculated at VMI from Warrenton, Virginia, and majored in electrical engineering. During his time at VMI, he was active in rat track and cross-country, fencing, and spelunking. Ted was commissioned in the United States Air Force and

Class of 1971: Jim Kelly and his grandson, Ryan Fox, watched the VMI versus Western Carolina University baseball game during Legacy Day, April 14, 2018.

Fox scaled the rock climbing wall in the Corps Physical Training Facility during Legacy Day 2018. Fox has a provisional appointment to the Class of 2027.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Lanny Gault, Rick Littleton and John private memorial service will be held at a Wall representing the room 139 scholarlater date. On behalf of the VMI Class of 1971, I extend our sincere condolences to ship. Speed Patterson was among the the Wachtmeister family. guests, as well. Often, there are other BRs Will and LeAnne Wickun took a at this luncheon, but I did not see anyone three-week adventure tour to Tanzania else that day. and Zanzibar which included mountain Saturday, April 14, was Legacy Day at climbing at nearly 15,000 feet, jungle hikVMI sponsored by the VMI Alumni Assoing, land-cruiser safaris and snorkeling/ ciation. Participants are divided into simidiving in the Indian Ocean. Will listed lar age teams of 10-12 each and are guided extreme heat, dust, extreme cold, tsetse by about four cadets per group. I was flies, living in tents, no running water or proud to have my grandson, Ryan Fox, as electricity and “danger close” encounters a first time participant. The morning was Class of 1971: Will and LeAnne Wickun with their guide, with numerous wild animals among the spent in the Corps Physical Training FacilLeo, on the summit of Mount Meru (14,980 feet) in Tanhighlights of the trip. He says that this trip zania, Africa. ity with the young men and women takis “not for everyone” but in all caps related ing part in problem-solving and individual that “we loved it.” Interested BRs should check the football game against Mercer University. Adactivities. Following a picnic lunch, everyone was out africanenvironments.com. ditional information will be forthcoming later in in attendance for VMI baseball in a double header March 22, 2018, marked the 50th anniversary of the summer. Several bikers from ’71 have routinely against Western Carolina University. VMI swept our Breakout from the Rat Line. Sam Kirby sent taken part in this event. the three-game weekend series, which was the beout a copy of a photo taken in barracks just beOn April 13, 2018, the annual Benefactors Lun- ginning of a seven-game winning streak for the Big fore our obstacle-laden trip up to the fourth stoop cheon was held in Marshall Hall at VMI. The Red. While on the subject of baseball, it is worth which, when the last BR arrived, gave birth to the VMI Foundation hosts the event which is not Class of 1971. The photo is included with this only a “thank you” to scholarship donors but also noting that Peyton Maddox ’18 was drafted set of class notes. Do you know where you were a chance to meet many of the outstanding young last year by the San Francisco Giants but electstanding in that rat mass? As you may recall, we men and women of the Corps who are the benefi- ed to return to VMI. A three-year starter at were advised to wear multiple layers of padding. ciaries of financial aid. Buddy Bryan, VMI Foun- catcher, Peyton is enjoying a very good season Some time ago, Buz Booker gave me a set of dation chief operating officer, welcomed those and in all likelihood will be drafted again this etchings of VMI landmarks created by the artist in attendance. I was seated with Bob Lockridge, year (June). According to some sources, at least Day Lowery sometime during the middle 1930s.

These were part of the belongings of Buz’s father, Dr. Armistead P. Booker ’36. Having not seen them before or knowing of their value as artifacts, I contacted Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System, for assistance.

Keith readily identified the etchings and indicated that the artist had done similar work for other colleges. He noted that VMI had several copies of the ones in question. One set is displayed in Smith Hall near the superintendent’s office. It remains to be seen what will become of the set that is now here in Pulaski but not yet on display.

Lanny Gault sent out an email to let us know that one Wayne Hepler and wife Nancy are planning to travel from Atlanta to Lexington for the weekend of the VMI versus East Tennessee State University football game Sept. 15 and to encourage a good showing of BRs for the day. There is also some “stoop poop” that other events may also be in the works.

The VMI Alumni Association announced that the annual Ride to the “I” for alumni and their Class of 1971: The class ready to break out of the Rat Line March 22, 1968. guests will be held Saturday, Sept. 29, 2018, before

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Class Notes four other Keydets have a good chance of being drafted in June. As of this writing, our team is on track for its first winning season since 2014.

The first weekend in May, the National College Lacrosse League held its national championship for club lacrosse at the U.S. Naval Academy.

The Big Red advanced to the final four but lost to eventual national champion, Stevens Institute of Technology. The team was coached this year by Lt. Col. Kevin Faust ’96, who is also the current assistant commandant at VMI. The United States Power Lifting Association held this year’s Raw Nationals in Cocke Hall at VMI. The Keydet power lifters took seven first place medals in their respective weight classes and also claimed two team titles in one of their most successful competitions ever.

A car caught on fire on Virginia 64 near Vesuvius, Virginia, earlier this month (May) and quickly started what became a 1,700 acre fire in the George Washington and Jefferson National Forests and some private land in Rockbridge and Augusta counties. Virginia 56 (Tye River Road) was closed between Vesuvius and the Blue Ridge Parkway. Fortunately, no structures were damaged and no evacuations were required. All of this activity near Vesuvius prompted me to contact John and Laura Metzger to see if they were experiencing any problems. John reported that their property was not in danger at the time and that the lodge is actually located 8-and-a-half miles from Vesuvius in what John referred to as

Class of 1971: VMI mascot Moe flanked

by Dave Kennedy and Ken Yorgey at Richmond’s Canon and Draw Brewing Company during VMI’s Day of Giving May 1, 2018.

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the “suburbs.” He also mentioned that he was in the middle of spring gobbler season and that Van Jolissaint was coming up to do some shooting at Quail Ridge. Fogleman and Paton were on the schedule for lodge activities the first couple of weekends in June.

Ken and Carol Yorgey recently celebrated Carol’s birthday and their upcoming 47th wedding anniversary (May 22) by taking a cruise on the Carnival Harmony of the Seas. More recently, they met up with Dave and Martha Kennedy at the Canon and Draw Brewery in Richmond on the Day of Giving for VMI. Mascot Moe had reached Richmond on his journey back to Lexington and took time to pose for a photo with Ken and Dave. The brewery is owned by Brad Cooper ’09. I don’t have the final totals from the Day of Giving, but an email from VMI indicated that close to $150,000 was donated and a challenge match was to be made if more than $100,000 was raised.

The VMI Board of Visitors, at its most recent meeting, approved tuition increases of 3.3 percent for Virginia residents and 3.9 percent for out-of-state residents. The new rates, including required fees, brings the total cost for Virginia residents to $28,344 and $55,188 for out-of-state residents. Required fees include uniforms, military activities, and room and board.

Kathryn and I planned to be in Lexington during the second weekend of June for the Volunteer Leadership Training Conference. This group is made up of the members of the VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors, regional directors, chapter presidents and class agents. Items on our agenda include relationship building, role of chapter leaders/class agents, iModules for class agents and various roundtable discussions. The Friday night dinner in the Hall of Valor will have our own Jerry Acuff as the keynote speaker.

My thanks to each of you that participated in the Day of Giving and/or made a gift to VMI so far this year. The end of fiscal year numbers should be out in time for the next set of notes, and I am confident that ’71 will continue to demonstrate leadership in its number of donors and percentage of alumni participation. As you can infer from the numbers above, it is increasingly a challenge for the young men and women of the Corps to attend VMI. These cadets have chosen to “not do ordinary.” Let’s do whatever we can to make a VMI education happen for those who have followed us on that journey.

Everyone be safe and take care of yourselves. I look forward to seeing many of you this fall.

Let VMI be heard from today.

Jim

1972

Larry Houseworth

BRs, Sister Rats, Families, Friends and Passers-by, After 36 hours of spring, summer has come to the Holy City. Whispers of color have given way to drifts of golden pollen and air thick enough to cut. I love summer – sniff.

These notes cover mid-February through New Market Day – a quiet time of year for news. But when this issue of the Review arrives, we’ll be within weeks of the 50th anniversary of our matriculation. Speaking only for myself, I couldn’t think 50 minutes, much less 50 years, ahead on that pressure cooker of a day – more pushups than in my entire life and the sudden realization that Dad (U.S. Military Academy ’46) was right about staying anonymous. Unfortunately, my hair didn’t get that message – one that Chris L’Orange ’69, Jim Hitchcock ’69 and a host of others reinforced to me during an invitation only get-together that night.

A quick bit of business: I appreciate hearing of new email and mailing address changes. If you have either, let me know and then take a moment to update your data in VMI Ranks on the VMI Alumni Association website, vmialumni.org, or from the main VMI website (vmi.edu) scroll down to “Information For” and click “Alumni and Friends.” Go to “VMI Ranks” at the top of the page and click “Edit My Profile.” If you haven’t already done so, you can create a profile to gain access to contact information, discussion boards, class updates, VMI Job Board, VMI Headlines and online event registration.

Ralph Redmond continues to mend well after his disastrous encounter with the force of gravity versus terra firma. As I write this, he’s being transferred to a physical rehab facility in Chester, and by the time you read this, he should be home under Denise’s watchful eye. He wants me to pass along his appreciation for the concern and support he’s received.

Joe Knick sent this: “I thought I would share

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes with you our recent efforts in helping to establish a Vietnam War Memorial in Augusta, Georgia, for the Central Savannah River Area. The CSRA is comprised of 15 counties in Georgia and five counties in South Carolina.

“The VMI Alumni Augusta Chapter is on the steering committee. Terry Bowers ’68, our Augusta Chapter president, and I have been heavily involved in the design of the Vietnam War Memorial. I was asked to be the project engineer in October 2017 and accepted. We have completed our design and selected the vendor for supplying the granite and doing the engraving. We released our website today and Thursday, March 29, the mayor of Augusta, Hardie Davis Jr., will make a proclamation announcing Thursday as Vietnam Veteran’s Day. Under the provisions of the Paris Peace Accords signed Jan. 27, 1973, the last U.S. troops departed South Vietnam in March 29, 1973. Also, on this day, as part of the accords, Hanoi releases the last 67 of its acknowledged American prisoners of war, bringing the total number released to 591.

“I got involved in this project due Jack W. Kennedy ’69, who was co-captain of the wrestling team and soccer team, Company E, platoon leader and member of the Honor Court. Jack became MIA Aug. 8, 1971. I knew Jack from the wrestling team and Echo Company. I used to receive letters from his mother, Mrs. Sally Kennedy, after I visited the traveling Vietnam War in Augusta. Jack’s remains were found in 1993, but it was not until January 1995, with improved DNA techniques, that he was finally identified.

“In addition to Jack, three other members of the Class of 1969 made the supreme sacrifice. They were Thomas G. Blair ’69, Arthur Lee Galloway ’69 and Franklin W. Webb ’69. There were 43 VMI alumni killed in Vietnam. Following is the link to our website: https://vwmi-augusta.org.”

Thanks, BR, and a salute to all involved in this noble endeavor.

Sterling Spencer sent a quick note expressing concern for our BRs in sinkhole-prone Florida. I have to believe that our Floridians’ sins may not warrant being swallowed up by the gods, but then again...

Eagle-eyed Carsten Hillson caught a glitch in our editing of the class photo from the reunion.

He astutely noted Mark Pieklik’s presence in the photo and absence in the caption – totally accidental and an editorial hazard when working with two different data sources. Guilty as charged, rectified

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and will not happen again. Thanks, BR. Between now and the end of the year, many of us will attend our 50th high school reunions. It’s a tired cliché, but there’s not one of us who’s not thinking, “No way – I can’t be that far from 18.”

My point is this: Yes, it’s snuck up with blinding speed, and it’s only four more years until our VMI 50th. We will have the opportunity to provide the Institute a statement of our support, each in our own fashion. It’s not too early to consider your role and the means to fulfill that role. We will begin identifying leadership and committee members in the future, but for now, I ask that you simply take it into consideration.

As it’s summertime, and the news is light, that’s a wrap. Let me hear from you, stay safe, and take good care of you, yours and each other.

Larry

1973

Mike Kelly

Hello, Brother Rats!

I hope everyone has had an enjoyable summer. Most of us are probably looking forward to a cooler fall, some great outdoor activities to include football and, most importantly, our 45th Reunion, which will be Nov. 2-3. If you haven’t already done so, make your reservations today!

The past few months have not been kind to our class, as we have lost several of our BRs. In the last issue of the Review, I noted that we lost Maurice Powers and Warren Richards, and my father, William S. Kelly, also died during the winter. However, since the end of February, we lost two additional BRs, and I recently found out that another one died in 2016.

I have not had any contact with Phil Lynch since becoming class agent, but Tom Clark began a search for Phil earlier this year and finally reached Phil’s wife, who lives in California. She confirmed that Phil died Oct. 20, 2016. Phil was a police officer in San Francisco but moved back to his hometown of Albany, New York, where he was living when he died.

Our Brother Rat John Wilson died March 2, 2018, in Lexington, Kentucky, after an extended illness. John worked for more than 30 years at Toyota Motors in Georgetown, Kentucky.

William Rowley died March 16. Bill left VMI before graduation and spent most of his career working in the family business, Rowley General Contractors, in Rochester, New York. Please keep these families in your thoughts and prayers.

Members of our class have lost family members recently. Glenn Younes’ mother died in April, and Art Pendleton’s wife, Phyllis, died April 25.

Art and Phyllis had been married for more than 40 years! Please keep our BRs and their families in your thoughts and prayers, as well.

Ray Burton posted on our Facebook page that he was in the hospital at the end of February and part of March with bacterial pneumonia in both lungs and sepsis. He spent his spring recovering but seems to be doing well now. Tom Clark reported that he spoke to John Ciriaco this spring, and John continues to recover from the aortic dissection incident he had last fall. Glad to hear you are getting well.

I had a note from Rick Gribling saying his wife was recovering from successful heart surgery this spring and seems to be doing well. Rick said he was getting ready to fly to France and Germany for senior military staff rides and class teaching requirements as part of his job. And, of course, he’ll work in a trip to Scotland to visit his daughter. Glad to hear Rebekah is doing well. Have fun on your trips.

Paul Jalbert, as you know, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease several years ago. Last year, he underwent deep brain stimulation surgery and had another one this February. The stimulations provide relief from the physical distractions associated with Parkinson’s, and Paul reported he was doing well. He posted pictures on our Facebook page of him and his wife, Emily Dickson, at the 5K race in Richmond April 8. This race is a fundraising event for the Virginia Commonwealth University Parkinson’s Center. Paul also posted a picture of him and BRs John Landry and Mike Burke, who also participated in the event with him.

Stuart Seaton posted a picture of him with his son-in-law and grandson attending the Richmond NASCAR race this spring and said they had a great outing together. Stuart also serves as the class agent for VMI Class of 1941, which was his dad’s class. Another member of that class is our BR Bob Maling’s father, Robert Maling. Stuart had a message from Bob saying he had been to San Antonio to visit his dad and that he was doing fine. Bob also said he had drifted out of retirement

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Class Notes and was doing some consulting work for a project the graduation of their oldest daughter, Cath- just finished volleyball season and started right in China and that his wife, Kristi, and he looked erine “C.J.” C.J. received a Master of Fine Arts into softball. It is tough getting out of bed the forward to business trips back there, as they lived degree with specialty in modern dance. They next morning. I had my physical, and the doctor in China several years ago. You may recall that were joined by their other daughter, Allie, and pointed his finger at me and said not to act like I was 25! I hope you all have a great trip to Ireland; I mentioned Bob’s scare earlier this year when were getting ready to leave Arizona for a family his plane caught fire. Well, Bob said that after the vacation in Hawaii. C.J. and her husband, Mike, it is one of our favorite places to go. Best of luck smoke cleared, he is back in the air flying a Piper plan to move closer to home to the St. Petersburg/ with the shoulder surgery.

Pat and I don’t have a trip planned this year – at Cherokee. As Bob noted, life continues to be quite Clearwater area this summer. Congrats to the an adventure!

Tiso family, and enjoy your vacation. Roland said least not at this time. We have been really busy all winter and spring as she still works I saw a posting as well from Bill Spencer two days a week, sometimes more, and I this spring where he and his family were at have already had several consulting jobs Disney World enjoying themselves. And this year. We also have been rewiring Ralph Littreal posted pictures of some the ranch in Virginia, so I’ve been going of his travels around the country going up there almost every week for a couple to NASCAR events. Nice to be enjoying of days for the past two months. What a retirement! mess – house built in 1922, only four existMichael Smith and Hal Laughlin are still working to get the Myrtle Beach ing wall plugs in the house; plaster walls alumni chapter back up and running and and ceilings, old knob and tube wiring – had their first organizational event schedand now, of course, the grass is growing like crazy! Maybe after we get this finished uled for May 15. Hope all goes well and Pat and I can relax, sit on the front porch thanks for your work! Paul English conwith a book and glass of wine and watch tinues to do great things with the Pisgah/ the sunset!

Upstate South Carolina/Asheville, North Class of 1973: Roland Tiso with his family at the graduation of Michael Smith and Fred Hall both sent Carolina Chapter and has help from E.D. his oldest daughter, C.J. From left, Roland, Catherine “C.J.” Woomer who lives in the Asheville area. Tiso Inzirillo, Mrs. Judie Tiso and daughter Alexandra “Allie” me messages this month asking where I Doug Huthwaite was getting more in- Tiso. C.J. graduated in May with a Master of Fine Arts (mod- have been. I guess I have been a little slack ern dance) degree from the University of Arizona. this year getting notes out, especially since volved with the Wilmington, North Carowe switched everything over to Google. lina, Chapter but just informed me that he I haven’t been able to set up my emailing and Pat sold their home in Kure Beach, lists in Gmail like I had in Roadrunner, North Carolina, and were moving perbut I have now started using the iModules manently across the state to their home in that the Alumni Association has available. the mountains near Murphy. So, P.X. now It shows 168 email addresses for the class, has another BR in his chapter area that he which is almost as many as I had myself. can call on. I really appreciate your work.

Please go into the VMI Ranks and keep Jimmy Parks sent me a note to say he your information current. Lots of people finally retired in February. Jimmy spent change email address and phone numbers, three years on active duty with the Army, then worked for more than 30 years for the Class of 1973: Pictured from left: Mike and Pat Kelly and Sher- addresses, etc., and if you will go into the Corps of Engineers in both CONUS and ry and Ken Kalisky. Ken and Mike are fellow biology majors. VMI Ranks at vmialumni.org, you can OCONUS assignments, and after retir- Ken and Sherry were passing through Raleigh in February easily keep things current. I will most likeand stopped over to have lunch with Mike and Pat at the Keling from the corps, he worked another 10 lys’ favorite local pub. ly rely heavily on iModules in the future, so years for DoD in the intelligence commuplease keep your information up to date.

I also want to push our class Facebook page. We nity in Maryland. Jimmy didn’t say what he plans he continues to work a couple of contracts from to do next, but made it clear that this was not his home and plans to work, at least part time, for a currently have 83 people signed up. Tom Clark is couple more years. our page keeper and can get you on board. It is final chapter. Enjoy retirement, Jimmy!

Tom and Lois Jennings usually go to Lexington a closed page so only class members have access I also had some correspondence from James Reid and Howard Frank who were trying to catch for New Market Day, but this year Tom said they to it, and there are a lot of things that get posted up with one another; unfortunately, I didn’t get a were taking a trip to Ireland for a couple of weeks. which I think you’ll find of interest. Please considlot of information from either of them for these He was lamenting his return, because as the re- er joining our group, even if you aren’t a regular notes, but they did link up. Keep in touch with me! sult of an accident, he must have shoulder surgery user of Facebook.

Roland Tiso sent a note from Casa Grande, when they get back. And he said something about By the time you get this copy of the Review (earArizona, where he and Judie were attending “parts wearing out.” I know the feeling, Tom. I ly August), you probably should have or soon will

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes get registration information on our reunion. The official dates are Nov. 2-3, however I will have a hospitality room and registration desk open the afternoon and evening of Thursday, Nov. 1. Our main hotel is the Best Western Hunt Ridge, and the neighboring Sleep Inn is the overflow hotel.

You should have received hotel registration information in May. We will get together informally Thursday evening at the hotel. Friday we are planning golf and trap shooting as outings, as well as another event, such as a visit to a winery, for all others who might be interested. Friday night will be an informal hors d’oeuvres and cocktail evening in Moody Hall. On Saturday, we’ll have a memorial service on the bricks, a class picture, parade, lunch in Crozet Hall, football game and then a dinner Saturday night. Sunday will probably be informal breakfast at the hotel. I hope you can attend, as I am sure we will have lots of fun.

Well, that about wraps it up for now. I look forward to seeing many of you this fall at some of the alumni activities and ballgames and at our reunion! Take care, and be safe out there.

In the bonds, Mike

1974

Snookie Parker

Greetings Brother Rats, Family and Friends of the Class of 1974!

These notes will cover Feb. 16 to May 15. Heads up before I start these notes – some things to think about with more to follow: 1.) The 45th Reunion is September 2019, exact weekend to be determined.

2.) Aug. 20, 2020, is the 50-year anniversary of our entry into the Class of 1974 Rat Line – a celebration: mini reunion, dinner, cocktails in Moody Hall.

3.) The 50th Reunion just around the corner.

4.) What to do with class funds – consolidate and/or establish class scholarship?

Recognitions: Many of our brother rats have served VMI and the Alumni Association in various roles throughout the years. I would like to recognize the current BRs serving. I apologize

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up front if I miss someone: Donnie Ross, Keydet Club vice president; Sammy Ratcliffe, career counselor; Sam Mattocks, chapter president, Central Virginia Region, Tri-Cities Chapter; Henry Moncure, chapter president, Hampton Roads Region, Rappahannock Chapter; Lane Toomey, chapter representative, Carolina Region, Cape Fear/Fayetteville Chapter; Al Vicory, chapter representative, Florida Region, The Villages Chapter; Russ Takata, chapter representative, Northwest Region, Hawaii Chapter; R.C. Thompson, chapter representative, Metro/D.C. Region, Fredericksburg-Quantico Chapter; Judge Nottingham; Joe McCoskrie; Kent Wheeless; John Savage; and many others have served in the past. Thanks to all who serve!

Speaking of serving, while in Lexington for the spring Foundation board meeting, Lane Toomey had the pleasure of sharing a table during the Benefactors Luncheon where Gary Trinkle and his cousin were being recognized for endowing a full scholarship for an English major. This scholarship is in memory of Gary’s mom, who sent two sons to VMI and remained a staunch supporter of VMI until her recent passing. Also at the table was Col. Badgett, professor emeritus of the English department. Lane also attended the retirement parade in honor of Sam Ratcliffe. Sam completed 40 years of service to VMI and is a well-known and respected in his field of assisting

Class of 1974: Snookie Parker, retired Col. Margarita “Maria” Aponte and Edgardo “Ed” Vazquez-Bruno with the Class of 1974-donated generator (lower right corner) that is helping power the Mana Nursing home in San Juan, Puerto Rico.

cadets with excellent jobs and graduate schools after graduating from VMI. As an example, 99 percent of the Class of 2017 had jobs, went on active duty, or were in grad school by Oct. 1. Well done, Sam. Now that Sam is retiring, that leaves only Donnie Ross as the lone ’74 member serving VMI in Lexington, and he plans to retire in June. Lane did see Pat Flynn at Sam’s retirement parade. Pat brought his grandson, Samuel (age 9), up from Florida to attend the Legacy Day weekend. This was Samuel’s first time at VMI. Lane said young Samuel seemed impressed by the parade – especially the fixed bayonets on the color guard during the pass in review. Thanks for your service and the note, Lane!

A follow-up on Clarke “Frog” and Brenda “Dinky” Peele from the last set of class notes.

Clarke retired in June 2017 after 21 years with the Air Force and 22 years with Southwest Airlines.

His son, Justin, was his co-pilot for his Southwest Airlines retirement flight, along with the entire family. They have a house on the Rappahannock River near Deltaville, Virginia; a condo in Panama City, Florida; and children and grandchildren in Phoenix, Arizona (USAA employees), so they have living quarters in all locations. I did not know, but Clarke’s extended family members are tobacco farmers from small towns near Wilson, North Carolina, and are very familiar with Parker’s BBQ. Not sure if it’s true, but I heard that Brenda embroidered her name, “Dinky,” on Clarke’s ROTC summer camp underwear way back when. Some Texas A&M boys took notice and said if you were going to name it, Dinky is not what they would have chosen. Touché! Clarke did tell a story on Mike “Baby Tuck” Tucker concerning a Smithfield Ham shipped to Clarke while in the Philippines. Tuck begged, and Clarke gave him two slices. Mike took them home and put in refrigerator. Tuck’s cleaning lady thought they were left overs and gave them to the yard boy.

Supposedly, Mike fired the cleaning lady. Two days later, Tuck asked Clarke if he had any more left. Clarke said he did but was not giving away slices so Tuck could feed his yard boys. Nothing like a coveted Smithfield Ham while serving in the Far East!

We had some real spring-like weather in North Carolina in late February, so I booked a weekend trip to the OBX. Marla and I wanted to visit Ocracoke, having never been there before. In fact, the last/only time I can remember visiting the OBX was going to John Pate’s parents’ place – I think

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Class Notes after our 2nd Class year – accompanied by an interesting cast of characters and highlighted by a memorable fishing trip (caught a boatload of blue fish, as I recall).

I thought I might be able to find my way back to that cottage. Well, the OBX has changed a lot since the early ’70s – totally unrecognizable today. With all the building going on today, I’m not sure if the cottage I remember still exists. Well, this trip did not go as planned. The weather was not cooperating. The spring-like weather was replaced by cold, gale force winds (60-plus knots at times), churning seas, blowing sand, parts of the road near Hatteras flooded ... ferries were not running (which meant no Ocracoke visit) ... several seasonal endeavors had not yet opened ... we landed in Duck for the weekend – at the Sanderling. Highlight of the trip – a Duck Donut doughnut and lunch with David and Penny Stormont at the Blue Point restaurant in Duck. Dave and Penny are doing well and living the life in Kitty Hawk – in real estate and home building (more than 100 by last count) since 1986.

Both Dave and Penny are staying busy but are seriously attempting to ease into retirement. Dave is on the mend from back surgery; all indications are it was successful.

Marla and I plan to revisit the OBX. Dave suggested a better time – consider September when the weather is still good, all the seasonal activities are still open and most of the seasonal visitors (students and tourists) are gone. We’ll be back!

Not long after we left OBX, Phil Parker, Pete Meredith and Dave Stormont gathered in Norfolk to take a stroll down memory lane. Stormont, Meredith and Parker, “past directors” of a place known as “The Lodge” located in the South River Valley, met at an undisclosed location in the Tidewater area for an impromptu board meeting April 4 to conduct verification of activities which allegedly occurred between 1971-74. Being that they were the leadership of that fine establishment during those years and being that they are still hearing rumors of questionable behavior from that period and subsequent years, they thought it necessary to meet and get their stories straight (or what they

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Class of 1974: Clarke “Frog” Peele and his son in the cockpit on Clarke’s Southwest Airlines retirement flight.

Class of 1974: Tom Parker, right, holding the Jade Sword, and his Tai Chi sifu, Michael Paler, when Tom achieved level four certification in Imperial Yang Tai Chi.

Class of 1974: Dave Stormont, Penny Stormont, Marla Parker and Snookie Parker met for lunch at the Blue Point Bar and Grill in the Outer Banks in March.

meant to say was “review the pertinent facts,” which I’m sure none of them will ever reveal).

I saw a picture of Craig Smith and Donnie Ross in shorts on the golf course in February in Venice, Florida. I asked, but they did not want to talk about their scores.

Glenn Greene reported a proud papa moment: Son Marc was promoted to colonel while at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. Marc, a 2000 graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy, also completed his Ph.D. in military strategy. His next assignment will take him back to McGuire Air Force Base as commander, 305th Operations Group. In the meantime, Grace is working on her latest book, which should be released the first week of September. I believe that brings her up to book No. 13 or 14. Her “The Memory of Butterflies” has already exceeded the 100,000 in sales. It’s hard for Glenn to measure up with this family of overachievers. However, someone had to keep them fed, clothed and sheltered!

How about a proud grandpa moment: Rick Hess’ grandson, Marcus Jenkins, is a junior in high school and has been offered two full-ride D1 scholarships: First was the U.S. Naval Academy and second was the Air Force Academy. Congrats!

Any interest in VMI? In April, Phil and Randy Parker dined with Jon and Patty Mounts at their home south of Pittsburgh. Phil reported having a delightful evening and was fascinated with Jon and his running habit. Jon planned to run the Pittsburgh Marathon Sunday, May 6. Jon ran the Marine Corps Marathon last fall. Who cares about your time at 66; the fact that you finished is kudos enough. At 66, I’ll Uber! Congrats, Jon! Thanks for the note, Phil!

On April 18, a coastal Carolina contingent of ’74 gathered in Surf City, North Carolina, at Topsail Island. Robert “Turtle” Frank, Jim “Space” Huddle and Andy “The Professor” Young had lunch on the deck at Sears Landing.

It was a good gathering. I understand Bob’s foot is on the mend, and he’s walking and driving again.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Mark Shively called in search of a class coin. 1996. He said he used to do it on the signal bridge a +4.6 handicap. Daughter Jordan is in college.

Mark is a starving artist living the life in Rich- for the three ships he commanded and has con- Thanks for the update, Eric!

I received a nice note from Kevin Newton. Kevmond, Virginia, focusing primarily on sculpture tinued since then. Tom fell in with a good tai chi and photography. Interestingly enough, Mark also school in Colorado Springs. The sifu, Michael in (and Shelly) got together with John and Diane bakes some world-class cookies. His cookies (pri- Paler, is a designated lineal descendant of the Caldwell during the Caldwells’ visit to Kevin’s marily his ginger snaps) have taken first place priz- founder of Tai Chi – Yang Lu Chan, “Yang the cattle ranch outside of Austin, Texas. Kevin got es in the Virginia State Fair for 20-some years now. Undefeated.” Tom achieved level four certifica- out of the Army (tanker) after six years of active Hall Brodie called while he and Brenda were tion in Imperial Yang Tai Chi, which called that duty and spent the rest of his career in the health care business in one capacity or another: Critical passing by Wilson on I-95 north headed to Rich- because it was taught by Yang Lu Chan to the mond to see their first grandchild, the week-old Imperial Guard circa 1850. Tom says there is no care medicine, orthopedics, spine. John Caldwell Grace Abigail Brodie. I happen to be in church cause for excitement, because there are 13 levels, retired from the Army as a colonel after 27 years Sunday morning. Perhaps I’ll catch them on their and level four certifies that Tom most likely won’t of service and now works for Orbital ATK, where poke himself in the eye with a Chinese sword. At he is senior director. John and Dianne live in trip going home.

In April, while in San Juan, Puerto Rico, I had level 13, supposedly you walk on water, or some- Huntsville, Alabama. The Caldwells happened to be traveling in Texas, so Kevin and John colthe opportunity to break bread and sip some suds thing like that (they won’t say). Well done, Tom! with Brother Rat Edgardo “Ed” Vazquez-Bruno.

Eric Bankit sent a Happy Easter email! Eric and lectively arranged to get together, break bread and I happen to be on the home stretch in a long April are living in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylva- raise a glass or two. Kevin and Shelly raised their journey to have witnessed a ballgame in all of nia, in a drafty old (1750) home. He retired from three sons in California. According to Kevin, the Major League Baseball ballparks.

“Once they were all out of college, we My high school baseball buddies have departed for the great and free state seen them all. I have two left: Cleveof Texas, where we bought our ranch near Austin on which we raise beef land and Toronto. Side note – It seems cattle and grow hay.” I understand like the journey never ends. They keep when Kevin is not doing ranch work; building new stadiums. Atlanta has he is catching bass out of one of the just built a new stadium, so we’ll have four stock ponds on the property or to go back there (Atlanta’s third stacleansing Texas one feral hog at a time dium since we’ve started this journey). from his elevated blind. Cattle ranchIt just so happens that the Cleveland Indians were playing the Minnesota ing in Austin, Texas ... I’m sure Kevin Twins in the Hiram Bithorn Stadium is not one of those “big hat, no cattle” in San Juan, Puerto Rico, so off we cowboys from Texas! Good note. went. The games were oversold – Charlie Toler ran into Al Vicory standing room only. What an event – coming out of a workout facility while so much energy and enthusiasm, it felt at The Villages near Orlando, Florida. like the World Series. But I digress. Ed Some wondered what Al was doing Class of 1974: John “J.F.W.” Caldwell and Kevin Newton strolland I planned to visit the Mana nurs- ing down memory lane in Austin, Texas. at a workout facility and concluded he was likely there to pick up Kathy. ing home to see the generator the class Al claims Charlie must be in great shape, havhad donated. It just so happened that during my the Pennsylvania Army National Guard as a lieuvisit to the facility, the entire island of Puerto Rico tenant colonel after 30 years of service. In 2005, ing seen no beads of sweat on his forehead. The was without power, but not the facility. The gen- he managed to have tours to the Balkans and Iraq. same crowd speculates that Charlie was not there Eric has just retired from the Joint Munitions and working out but there to survey the babes – in The erator kicked on as advertised and was humming along while the rest of the island was without Lethality Life Cycle Management Command, Villages, I think not! Small world! I did wonder power. The generator powers the entire facility. Picatinny Arsenal, New Jersey, after 40 years in if Charlie and Tommy were considering retiring I can’t say enough about the altruistic effort the government service. He finished as the associate to The Villages. It turns out they experienced an director, retired Col. Margarita (Maria) Aponte, director of the Office of Small Business Programs interesting turn of events; someone knocked on and Ed provide for these folks in need. I have to and has since founded a consulting company, their door in Pensacola Beach, Florida, and wanttell you, it is one thing to read about it. It quite Milepost Consulting. Eric also does some part- ed to buy their house (which was not for sale) and another to witness the devastation and recovery time work with a weapons engineering company, made an offer they could not refuse, so it looked firsthand and see the impact a generator can have Subsystem Technologies. (If you know any young like they were going to be temporarily homeless, in this situation. What a blessing for those elderly engineers looking for work, send them his way.) looking for a place to settle. The Villages was in folks in need. Well done, Ed, Chip and the Class Daughter Chelsea is in Norfolk with a Navy man, the mix of options! and son Paul is working for the government at of 1974!

Ted Telle planned to be in Nashville June 22-24 Tom Parker has been studying tai chi since Picatinny. Paul is one heck of a golfer, sporting to participate in the Tennessee Senior Olympics.

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Class Notes Ted planned to compete in three events: 200, 100 and 50 free-style. The top four finishers in each event earn a trip to the National Senior Olympics in 2019, which is to be held in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Ted is staying in an Airbnb in Franklin, Tennessee, and plans to gather with Rich and Ann Forbes and Al and Trixie Beaty while in Franklin.

Good luck, Ted! Paul Van Doren reported on the March 17 Tidewater area breakfast club meeting. Attendees were Chip Beaman, Henry Moncure, Frank Richardson, Al Rasper, George Van Laethem and Paul.

They met at the Waffle World (not to be confused with the Waffle House). Sam Turner was not feeling well enough to make this breakfast. Since then, Sam had been back in the hospital. This time, the experience included extensive physical and psychological exams, because his health conditions had improved so much Sam was now under consideration for being added to the heart transplant list. Given the improved conditions, Paul asked Sam about attending the June 9 gathering. Sam said he couldn’t make the call until morning of June 9. As it turned out, due to Sam’s enlarged spleen and the fact that his white blood cell count has recently dropped, he was not approved for the heart transplant list and has been referred to an oncologist. We all should keep Sam in our collective prayers.

Kudos to Joe McCoskrie for the release of his book on the Civil War in Missouri and the stellar reviews. Book one complete – book two in the works? Heads up Class of ’74 authors: Roland, Harry, Rich, Bob, Lane (and Grace) – you’ve got some competition – a new author in the mix. Congrats, Joe! Walt and Karen Wilson paid a visit to the East Coast in mid-April, lodging with Pat and Sue Flynn in St. Augustine Beach. I think there was bass fishing going on. It turns out that at about that same time, John and Mary Ann Valenstein were passing through St. Augustine and called me for contact information for Pat Flynn, looking for a Class of ’74 rendezvous. I’m not sure they ever made the connection.

Sad news. Elizabeth Beaman, Chip Beaman’s mother, died at age 92 due to complications during surgery to fix a broken hip as a result of a fall. Rod Beard, John Pate, Al Rasper, Anne and George van Laethem, and Paul Van Doren attended the service for Chip’s mother. About 10 days before that, Don Sharpe’s mother passed.

While exchanging notes about Chip’s mother,

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John Williams informed some BRs that his mother had just passed and mentioned that she was the same age as Mrs. Beaman and had similar circumstances. John added, “Treasure your parents; you only get one set.” John also reported that his wife, Linda, “has been in the hospital for a week with possible kidney failure.” Linda did pull through, but I understand is on the hunt for a new kidney.

And a final sad note: Brother Rat Karl Liebrich died May 2, 2018. During the memorial service May 5, John McLaren and Frank Richardson represented our class, paying final respects and saying farewell to Karl. Karl worked as an electrical engineer in civil service for over 30 years. Many of his co-workers from Naval Facilities Engineering Command - Atlantic and NAVFAC Mid-Atlantic attended, along with neighbors, friends and family.

All in attendance honored his distinguished service to the Navy and the nation. Frank and John spoke to Karl’s brother and sister about their time at VMI and shared the bonds the will live forever among brother rats. Keep all of these brother rats and their families in your prayers.

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 or deaths. 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 snookieparker1974@ earthlink.net, Charley Banning cbanning@cox. net or Kevin Nettrour (our webmaster) nettrour@ accessus.net. Check out the website. Send me a note. Yada, Yada, Yada and Yaba Daba Dooooo!

Warm regards, Snookie

1975

Robert Keller

Hello to all my brothers. I am sure that most of you are saying thank goodness spring has finally arrived. Though I’ll bet by the time you are reading this, we all would like to have some of those cooler temperatures back again.

Rick and Suzanne Henning have been keeping a busy schedule this spring, and one of their activities is to take in many of the concerts in their area.

Rick won tickets to see the Tar River Jazz Band

Class of 1975: Peter Diamontopulos ’13, Cassandra (Greg’s granddaughter), Moe and Greg Diamontopulos were at VMI for Legacy Day, April 14, 2018.

Cassandra is undecided but could be a member of the Class of 2031. in concert and later this spring, they attended the Steven Curtis concert and a concert by Wilson Fairchild, where they all got their Statler Brothers fix, as Langdon and Will Reid (sons of Harold and Don Reid, original members of the Statler Brothers) played songs that their fathers did when they were on tour and recording. Rick keeps up with his sports passion by attending the VMI versus Virginia Commonwealth University baseball game at the Diamond in Richmond. He also attends the Mudcats games in Zebulon, North Carolina. While at one of the games, Rick won the prize for dirtiest car in the parking lot. Way to go BR. In addition, Rick and Suzanne keep busy by hosting international students in their home that are attending North Carolina Wesleyan College.

They have hosted children from Peru, Argentina, Mexico, Spain and Nepal. Rick says that they both love doing this. They and Sam were guests at an event and fundraiser for Anna’s Angels, which is a group that supports families of children and young adults with Down syndrome. While there, they participated in the silent auction and they not only succeeded in having the best bid once but three times with the big win being a night at The Inn at Celebrity Dairy in Chatham County, North Carolina. Finally, they met up with some good friends in Fredericksburg, Virginia, from their days when they lived in North Dakota.

Scott tells me that there are many things on their

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes calendar for this summer and I don’t doubt it. Stay busy, my friend.

Tad MacGowan sent me a great update on the activities of him and his family.

He started out by saying that the winter in the Washington, D.C./Baltimore area has been cold and gray and that the cold weather has spread into spring. This has kept Tad from his sailing and kayaking but allowed him time to ‘putter’ around and sharpen his skills as a birdwatcher and to add species to his birding life list.

He goes on to say that while being blessed to have been with the same company for the last 17 years, it is getting time to slow down. He has told his employer that he is going to retire in the next six to nine months, and indications are that they would like him to stay on in a reduced capacity, which Tad thinks would be an ideal situation. Tad relates that he and Bev are entering a different phase of life now that all of their children are out of the nest and all but one are west of the Mississippi.

Tad’s father turned 94 in April and is doing quite well. Tad and Bev spent Easter with him and attended Easter services together at the church of Tad’s brother, Tim. Brianna (Bev’s middle daughter) is located in the Los Angeles area and is living her dream; she created the Winston Pie Company that is doing quite well. I looked this up on the internet, and believe me, this is quite an impressive business enterprise. Tad, you may want to look into spending those cold winters of the East Coast in L.A. and see if Brianna needs a pie tester. You could go sailing every day after work. Kathryn (Tad’s oldest) just accepted a position with the University of California-San Diego in their property management department, where she will be managing a small staff. Brittni (Bev’s youngest) spent nine months touring the world with her husband, Lee, while he is on sabbatical from Portland State. They recently finished a couple of weeks in Australia and are now in Japan. Calee is doing well at the University of Arizona, and Ginny is staying very busy with her responsibilities at N-G. Kyle is hard at work at The Apprentice School, where he has moved from carriers to submarines.

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Class of 1975: Family and friends gather in Richmond to celebrate the career and retirement of Oliver Way in February.

Pictured were Barrett Way ’08, Lawton Way ’05, Oliver and Bonnie, Hal Way ’70, Bill Way ’78, Allen Morgan, Chip Louthan, and Nat Hamner.

Class of 1975: Jim and Linda Seitz, Mike and Teresa Mulligan, and Mary and Guy Conte shared a meal at the Mulligan’s house in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, in early May.

Class of 1975: Dean Armstrong visited with Georgiana Burlage, Joe Brown and Margaret Garcia at the American Defenders of Bataan and Corregidor Convention that was held in Albuquerque, New Mexico, in early May. Dean met them last year on his travels to Bataan/Corregidor. Georgiana, Joe and Margaret’s fathers were forced into slave labor by the Japanese during World War II and transported to Japan on Hell ships. Joe’s father did not survive the transport.

He doesn’t like it as much, as there is less room to be creative in coming up with solutions to assigned tasks. Thanks, Tad, for the update.

Greg Diamontopulos spent April 14 at the Legacy Day event at VMI where he and son Peter Diamontopulos ’13 escorted Greg’s granddaughter, Cassandra, around post. It would have been interesting to hear what Peter and Greg told her, especially from a 2013 and a 1975 perspective. Greg says that Cassandra is very much undecided, but there is a slight possibility that she could be in the Class of 2031. They even met up with Moe at the new fitness center. It’s hard to say who had the best day – Peter, Cassandra or Greg.

I received a really quick note from Jay Jones, who wishes everybody his best.

R.B. Lane sent a note to let me know he is still in his battle with cancer. Turns out another tiny cancerous spot was detected.

To tackle it head on, he went straight to chemo. He has completed his fifth out of six infusions in mid-April. All in all, he says he is finding chemo to be manageable. No nausea but some other side effects include fatigue, some loss of taste, hair loss, and wicked insomnia the day of infusion (due to steroids they give you to eliminate nausea). The last infusion was scheduled for May, and he was counting the days. The oncologist said it’ll take about six to eight weeks after the last infusion before he totally bounces back. R.B. sends his appreciation for and is humbled by everyone’s ongoing prayers.

Oliver Way let me know that he retired in March. Oliver was honored for his years of service with Fulton Bank at a retirement party in Richmond in February.

Among the guests was quite a VMI contingent that included Ollie’s wife, Bonnie; sons, Barrett Way ’08 and Lawton Way ’05; brothers, Hal Way ’70 and Bill Way ’78; and BRs Allen Morgan, Chip Louthan and Nat Hamner. Ollie also passed on that his son, Lawton, has made partner at Hunton & Williams, which I am sure makes Ollie and Bonnie very proud.

He wrote that he is also looking forward to warmer weather and that he recently

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Class Notes started to do volunteer work at Habitat for Humanity. Best to you both.

Bill Overton let me know that even though he retired last summer, he is still on the bench sitting as a Senior Judge. When not sitting on the bench, he and Dolores are visiting and taking care of their five grandchildren. OV says that No. 6 is due in June. In June, the Overtons will be joining Chip and Kathy Louthan for a cruise to Alaska.

In late summer, OV and Dolores will be doing a Baltic Cruise that will include a stop in St. Petersburg, Russia. Bon voyage, BR. Mike Garten sent a quick note to let me know that he is visiting with his daughter Christine for several days as she and her dog Fido drove down to Albuquerque for a break from the unreasonably long and cold winter in Bloomington, Minnesota.

Mike won’t be able to attend the mini reunion at Charlie Hoon’s place in June, as he and his wife, Doreen, were able to get an appointment at the Mayo Clinic to try to diagnose Doreen’s health issues. They have been seeing doctors since January, and her issues have stumped the medical community in Albuquerque. Mike has moved his mother from Sun City, Arizona, to live with his sister, Patricia, in Ellicott City, Maryland, due to her failing health for the past two years. Both Mike and Patricia feel that it is better for their mother to be cared for by family. Doreen is doing well with her jewelry business. She does the design and silversmithing, and Mike cuts the stones that are used. Mike adds that she is a much better silversmith than he, although he has been working silver since learning to do so while at Fort Sill during his Officer Basic Course. Thanks, Mike. Our wishes for a quick recovery for Doreen.

Greg Stultz wrote to let me know that John and Rita Crenshaw had visited with him and Kathleen at the end of April. John and Greg were stationed together at Fort Bragg back in the day, as Greg puts it, and haven’t seen each other since with the exception of brief visit at our 35th Reunion. Greg said John is very upbeat as his battle with cancer continues. They had a lot of reminiscing about our days at the “I.” Greg and Kathleen really enjoyed their visit. Greg also hears from John Plunkett and Salvo Lape from time to time and reported that they are both doing well.

John Young informed me of an article in the April edition of the National Guard magazine that reported of an honor bestowed on one of our BRs. Kimo Wong, senior vice president, regional operations of the Armed Forces Benefit

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Class of 1975: Earlier this year, Paul Bernard and son Chris Bernard ’08 welcomed their grandson and son, respectively, Maverick Wheeler Bernard, who is a possible member of the Class of 2040.

Association, was among those that were honored by the National Guard Education Foundation for their organization’s contributions of substantial financial donations to the NGEF. These contributions came through the Legion de Lafayette program, which is reserved for the foundation’s largest benefactors. Those honored received a replica of an 1832 medal the New York militia presented to Marquis de Lafayette, after whom the program is named. Congratulations to you, Kimo, and thanks, John, for passing this on.

Chip Louthan sent me a great note announcing the arrival of his first grandchild by his son, Michael Louthan ’10, and wife Juliet. The proud grandfather declared that his granddaughter, Frances Dawson Louthan, Class of 2040, will be the first captain when we are back for our 65th Reunion and we climb the sentinel box to give an Old Yell. BR, I hope you are correct. Chip also reported that he was back in Lexington for the reunion weekend for our dykes’ class, ’78. They were wearing buttons that said “I strained the governor.” Chip said it was good to see them and that his dyke, John Forsyth ’78, was back for his first reunion. He just moved back from Germany after 30-plus years. Congratulations!

Rick Law checked in to say it has been a little busy enjoying retired life these days. Pario Lee and he cruised the western Caribbean in April and said that last year’s hurricane damage was quite evident in Puerto Rico, St. Croix and St. Martin, but Barbados and Granada were untouched. In another week in April, they were in San Antonio, Texas, with two of their grandchildren, and in May, they volunteered at the Players Golf Tournament at TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra. After attending the Doobie Brothers concert the night after the tournament, they took off for Europe and

began an eight-day Viking River Cruise down the Danube. Once they return, they are headed to Kiawah Island to attend Mike Hunter’s oldest son’s wedding. Dawg said that on the off weeks, they spend time with their other two granddaughters in Jacksonville. Off weeks? With that schedule, I am surprised you have any free time. Sounds like retirement suits you both well.

Paul Bernard sent me notice that he, too, is a first-time grandparent. In mid-April, Maverick Wheeler Bernard was born to Chris and Michelle Bernard ’08. So far this year we have four grandchildren that are possibilities for the Class of ’40.

That might be a big legacy class. Congratulations to all of you grandparents.

Well, the shoebox is empty. I really want to thank those who have sent me updates and pictures. It makes this job a lot easier, and it is really nice to hear from all of you. If you have not heard from one of your roommates or a close BR, reach out to them and see if we can reconnect with them. If the Alumni Association has info on them, it is online under the alumni directory.

If you can’t find the directory, let me know and I will send you what I know, as that is where I get my information.

Take care, my brothers.

In the bonds, Bob

1976

William Bhatta

The Richmond BRC club met March 2. Jim Mallon reported another great turnout: Lee Bradshaw, Lee Godsey, Rocky Glass, Ed Crews, Kavie Thrift, Mack Curle, Alan Kinker, Tom Moody and Bill Danzeisen. Jim said Bill Danzeisen enjoyed watching the Philadelphia Phillies during spring training; Bill and Lee Godsey were managing to keep VDOT running; and Lee Bradshaw, Mack Curle, Ed Crews, Rocky Glass, Al Kinker and Tom Moody were enjoying retirement.

Hunt Ozmer checked in. He has just about settled in after moving to Lakeland, Florida, in November 2017 to cover the west coast of Florida for his employer, PARC Packaging. Hunt said he heard from Phil Upton; he is retired from teaching

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and lives in Myakka City, Florida. Hunt is serving on the board of directors for the Judy Nicholson Kidney Cancer Foundation. The foundation is Mark Bryant dedicated to furthering awareness and education, 315 Jennifer Drive providing support, and funding research for renal Fairfield, VA 24435 434/962-5687 cancers. Hunt is also chairman of the foundamhbryant77@gmail.com tion’s annual symposium held at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville, Florida. Hunt said, Hello, Brother Rats, “... Nick Nicholson’s [’62] wife died from kidney Submitting these notes here at VMI during ficancer, and that motivated Nick to start the foundation. When I moved to Jacksonville, Nick and nals (New Market Day), and you will see them I met for lunch and when he heard of my experithis August in the Alumni Review. Right about the time we are having our mini reunion tailgate ence with the Niemann-Pick Disease Foundation, Sept.15 on the home football weekend versus he asked me to serve on the board.” UnfortunateEast Tennessee State University. I am also exly, I was unable to publish a picture Hunt sent me Class of 1976: Donnie Fulton was the VFW Post 3219 commander in Phoebus, showing Nick, Hunt and George Mayforth ’82 pecting a cohort of BRs here after commenceVirginia, from 2000-01. His favorite spot as presenters at the annual symposium March 17, ment May 16 to play some golf in Lexington, was the corner of the VFW bar near the 2018.

The Homestead and Roanoke and to hang out entrance, where he could check everyone out as they entered and left.

Fulton Jim and Sharon Joustra are enjoying life in in Moody Hall. Kerry Mullin is organizing this died April 12, 2018.

Florida and everywhere else, too! The Joustras’ “poor man’s” golf vacation for everyone who 2018 travel itinerary included time with Jim and cannot get to Vegas. I may not get pictures until Susan Mallon in Napa Valley wine country; Ron Company A and left VMI his 2nd Class year. He the next edition, but I will make sure the BRs Fellows Corvette driving school in Nevada; and a joined the military in 1975 and retired as a master are accounted for. This is another good idea for trip to Bergen, Norway. At the time of Jim’s note, sergeant in 2001. Following retirement, he worked getting together in between “official” reunions, he was planning to meet Hunt Ozmer for lunch. for the TSA. I had the opportunity to attend Don- for golf or any other reason. Coming to LexingTwo weeks later, he planned visit John and Teri nie’s memorial service May 5 at Veterans of For- ton right after finals, when it is suddenly quiet Coleman in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, en route to eign Wars Post 3219 in Phoebus, Virginia, along here on post, seems like a good time.

Key West, Florida, where he was going to assist with John Strock. Donnie loved the VFW, and it I have heard from a few BRs lately, of which was obvious the VFW loved him. Based on the I am always glad, since it makes writing these with scuba instruction for a week with Randy Pekarik ’79, one of the top divers in the country. Jim stories I heard, Donnie was always ready to help notes much easier.

Mark Hunt let me know he was on post reworks about 20 hours a week on the board of a a veteran, regardless of the circumstances. He will new company called LocatorX, as well as with the be missed. Donnie is survived by his wife, Susan, cently for Legacy Day with his grandson. AlVMI Alumni Association and works with PTSD and daughter, Jennifer. ways good to start the indoctrination early!

Regards, veterans with Stu Kinniburgh ’77. The Joustra’s Mark Waldrop wrote to let us know that he WKB son, Andrew, continues to work in the film inrecently retired from “working on the railroad” all those years and was looking forward to dustry out in California. His company just the time he could now spend with his wife signed Michael J. Fox and Joe Dante (direcand enjoying life in Buckingham County. tor of “Gremlins”) to movie contracts. Jim Rich Howell, Doug Simms, Steve Kelsaid, “I think A.J.’s finally breaking through the Hollywood glass ceiling!” ly, Kip Hamilton and I’m sure several J.R. and Mei Mott, plus their two girls, other BRs are pedaling away on their road have been living in Germany the last four bikes in preparation for a century ride years. J.R. is currently working at a Depart(100 miles) this fall. Let’s cheer them on.

Max Floyd sent in a few pictures to let ment of Defense headquarters in Stuttgart, us know that life in the Canadian Rockies awaiting his next assignment back in the is just fine and that even he could learn a United States. J.R. plans to work a few new skill like use of snowshoes! more year before he retires, then he plans Tim Thompson updated us on his latto be a house husband. Based on what J.R. Class of 1976: David Saunders ’81, John Saunders ’09, Sam told me, Mark Sculley will be retired and Saunders ’78 and Jake Berberich in Charlottesville, Vir- est Dragon Force National Karate Team living in Salt Lake City, Utah, by the time ginia, celebrating the 90th birthdays of their mothers and and its championship status. Way to go, grandmother, twins Betty Saunders and Gloria Berberich, sensei! Tim has led many fine youngsters you read these notes. whose husbands were Samuel Saunders ’50B and John On a sad note, Donnie Fulton died April Berberich ’50B. to self-discipline and accomplishment 12 in Belleview, Florida. Donnie was in over his years of instruction, and once

1977

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Class Notes

Class of 1977: Sensei Tim Thompson with his championship karate team. Photo courtesy Martial Studios.

Class of 1977: Don Browder slugged through a 5K mud race.

again, his Dragon Force National Karate Demo Team and his Royoshin-Kin Karate School have earned a first place gold medal at the 2018 Grand Slam Open Karate National Championships.

Chris Manno is easy to keep track of on Facebook. He continues his flying career with American Airlines, and Dr. Manno now regularly tortures students of English literature as an adjunct professor. We congratulate BR Chris on the publication of his newest novel and on the literary awards he received in recognition of his work! We always knew Manno would do great things, we just did not know they would be so academic in nature.

Mike Korolevich let me know he finally took the plunge and left New Jersey permanently to settle as a retired gentleman in Texas. Hard to picture the big guy outside of his natural habitat, but Killeen, Texas? Why not?

Class of 1977: Mike Meise commissioned his son, David ’18, on New Market Day, May 15, 2018.

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Class of 1977: Max Floyd and his wife learned the art of dogsledding near Calgary.

Our BRs are still represented in today’s Corps with Mike Meise’s son, David ’18, graduating and commissioning with the Class of ’18.

Congratulations! Also, Jerry Haste’s son just finished his 4th Class year. Way to go, next generation.

BR Don Browder has proved that some of us can still move, and he sent pictures to prove it.

He recently completed a 5K mud run and obstacle course while proudly wearing the correct race number! Proud of our leatherneck brother keeping up the pace.

If any of you pass by Lexington or the area, do let me know. I will not be working on post this summer, but I will certainly be around and am scheduled to teach in the fall. It is always great to see any and all, and I am soliciting photos, both old and new, from all.

RVM, Mark

Class of 1977: Mark Hunt was on post with his grandson for Legacy Day, April 14, 2018.

VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1978: Present at the reunion were William H. Atwill Jr., Keith W. Barber, Timothy R. Berkhimer, Ken Blythe, Mark R. Bottomly, Michael Bragale, James R. Branscome Jr., Ernest L. Brown, Thomas A. Brown, R.W. Burke Jr., Kevin J. Callanan, Paul E. Campbell, Ronald Carter Jr., David M. Colonna, James D. Cure, Nelson C.J. Curtis Sr., Glenn R. Dallinger, Earl V. DeCarli, Peter J. Dillon, Ronald M. Dolan, Terrell G. Dorn, Robert S. Eagle III, Alexander M. Earle Jr., P. Andrew Faulconer, Thomas R. Ferguson, Larry L. Fluty, John B. Forsyth, Frank W. Fountain, Michael J. Freeman, Robert L. Fricke, Johnny C. Garnett, Gregory A. Gearhart, Andre J. Gibson, William S. Gitchell, Timothy A. Gompers, David R. Gray, Bil I. Greg, John H. Gregg, William W. Grove Jr., William E. Hardy, Gerald F. Harris Jr., Joseph W. Hutt III, Kenneth W. Jamerson Jr., Robert W. Jenvey II, Robert M. Johann, Bruce G. Kay, Vagel C. Keller Jr., Patrick D. Kelley, Paul W. Kenney, Robert M. Kirby, Scott J. Konkus, John J. Lach, Kenneth J. Lafferty, Mark E. Lambert, Roland D. Lee Jr., Edwin F. Little, Robert M. Loflin Jr., Clyde W. Long, James E. Mackin, Elpidio Manoso III, W.B. McCampbell Jr., Timothy A. McGreer, Mark C. McKissick, David A. Mecredy, Richard P. Meredith, Ronald K. Milligan, Dave L. Montgomery, Anthony U. Moore, I. Allen Moore Jr., Michael A. Moore, John J. Nichols, Stephen M. Oddi, Michael H. Oelrich, Robert S. Parker, Anthony Pileggi, Timothy D. Pishdad, James M. Reynolds, John E. Riester Jr., David F. Ring, William S. Robertson, Donald L. Robey, Samuel E. Saunders III, Thomas R. Shaw, Lesley V. Shimanek, Harry D. Siegfried, James S. Simons, Kenneth R. Singleton, Thomas C. Sliwoski, Gary W. Snyder, Bryant B. Streett, Thomas V. Tanner, Stephen W. Thompson, Daniel P. Thornton, Joseph J. Tulskie Jr., Robert L. Vidrick Jr., Blaine D. Vorgang, Stanley J. Walchock, Craig L. Wallen, Bruce A. Walls, William W. Way, Martin S. Welsh, John K. Whitmer, Rex A. Wiggins, Ralph W. Williams III, Richard C. Wolffe Jr., John E. Woodward III and Jeffrey G. Yates.

Class Notes

2018-Issue 3

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Class Notes

1978

Tom Brown

Salutations, Brother Rats, Wow! What a great time was had this April at our 40th Reunion. There were more than 100 BRs who made it back for this wonderful event. The class is very grateful for the efforts of the reunion committee for all their efforts. A special thanks to Stan Wakchock and Ronnie Milligan for the excellent work they did in making it all come together – salute! For those of you who were unable to attend or attended and cannot remember what happened: A recap. The early arrivals gathered Thursday evening to share a little time together.

Friday saw the golf outing headed up by Rick Wolffe played at the Buena Vista Links. Friday, Stan was a one-man registration whirl-wind. Friday parade was a nice event, as we watched in the wonderful spring weather. The evening event was at Moody Hall. There were so many in attendance that many had to be seated upstairs in the Brad Baker memorial bar area. Much socializing took place, and many former roommates were recounting the glory days of our youth.

Saturday started off with the usual class picture and, as is tradition, there were the usual stragglers who joined us just in time for the picture – no names. Thankfully, no cardiac episodes occurred during the process of getting to the picture. The Corps conducted another excellent parade. I was quite impressed that the announcer actually called my old company by its proper name, “F Troop.” Our regimental commander, Pete Dillon, marched us into barracks for the Old Yell. To lead us in our yell, Ron Carter mounted the sentinel box and gave a great rendition for the class. The Class of ’78 was heard from that day! Afterward, Robby Burke led the class in a memorial service for our departed BRs. Robby did an outstanding job of remembering Craig Badalaty, Brad Baker, Greg Booker, David Cameron, Tom Cook, Tim Desalvo, Clint Franklin, John Garrett, Mark Gentile, Mike Gotham, John Hodges, Sapruel James, Craig Larrimore, Jim Pengson, Bob Richards, Ray Schaper, Basil Smith, Ron Topp and Bont Tolbert. They are all greatly missed.

The afternoon offered the opportunity to see a

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Keydet baseball game, where Bill Hardy threw a ceremonial first pitch for our class. The evening event was a dinner-dance at the Center for Leadership and Ethics, Marshall Hall. We took the opportunity to recognize all of the first-time reunion attendees, each company and the Ring Figure couples. There were 18 Ring Figure couples. The blessing for the meal was given by Tim Pishdad.

Tim used the inscription on the Parapet as an inspiration for the blessing. Johnny Garnett introduced the first VMI Keydet to be inducted into the Southern Conference Hall of Fame, Ron Carter.

Ron spoke to the class briefly and reminded us that, even though he earned an NBA championship ring, his class ring is the one he chooses to wear. The remainder of the evening was one more opportunity to reconnect and have a great time.

For those of you who are planning for the 45th, fall 2023 will be the next one. One more thanks goes to the reunion committee, Stan Walchock, Ronnie Milligan, Anthony Moore and Steve Oddi, for making it a great time.

Now for the status from around the class: Mark Hunter: “I am home now taking it slow after a month in Madigan Army Medical Center.

My body is getting stronger every day. It tells me when I overdo it, and I have to sit down and rest.”

Vagel Keller: “All right!”

Joe Cafarella: “No change. Still trying to wrangle four grandsons each week – three, nine months and two at eight months.”

Kevin Callanan: “I headed down to LaGrange, Georgia, to receive my master’s degree from LaGrange College. Only took 40 years! At this rate, I’ll have my Ph.D. for our 75th Reunion. My oldest, Emma, just finished her first year at Christopher Newport University and was honored to serve as a princess at the 91st Apple Blossom Festival. Only 20 young ladies are picked out of 1,000 local ladies (last year’s high school graduates from the northern Shenandoah Valley) so we were very proud to say the least.”

Bil Greg: “Just wanted to say great reunion!

Room 142 (Tom Shaw, Gary Snyder, Jim Reynolds, Ken Lafferty and me) was ‘all present and accounted for!’ We all had a great time.

First time all of us were back in room 142 in 40 years! Now they turned it into a four-man room! Currently, Carrie and I just checked in for our golf and Jacuzzi week at Massanutten Resort! Unfortunately for me, I’ll have to watch Carrie play golf, and I can’t go into the Jacuzzi for another month! Four days after the reunion,

I had emergency gallbladder removal surgery – hope it wasn’t because of all that good Kentucky whiskey Gary brought that I tried! Doing better day by day.”

George Relyea: “Recently discovered two fellow alumni in the Evansville area. Maybe we have enough for our own alumni chapter now.”

Bob Brown: “Missed you guys at the reunion.

Have been in Korea since mid-January, serving as civilian deputy to the garrison commander at Camp Humphreys. Currently a four-month developmental assignment, it gives me resume experience to compete deputy to garrison commander at Forts Benning or Rucker in fall 2018.

It has been rewarding experience. I traveled to the DMZ and Olympics while here. Local Korean culture and food is great. I return home May 16. I will vacation with my wife in Destin before returning to work (director plans, training, mobilization, and security and Deputy G-3 Fort Benning) May 29. I Facebook stalked many of you regarding great reunion activities. It was an awesome event. Well done by our organizers.

Hope to see you soon.”

Steven Grant Burns: “I missed the reunion – still in Alaska and working for the city of Anchorage now. We took a trip to Seattle to see our oldest son and our three grandkids there instead of attending the reunion. Later this month, we are traveling to Kansas to see our youngest son and his kids. He is deploying to the sandbox in June, so we wanted to see him before he leaves. My wife, Jutamast, was in a car accident in January and is still recovering (neck issue), but it did her good to see the grandkids in Seattle and will do her even more good to see our grandkids in Kansas. Well, that is about it for now.”

Timothy Fredrikson: “Charlottesville; all right!”

Robert H. Simpson: “Still working at Fort Eustis and living in Williamsburg. I’m traveling a lot this spring and summer – Germany, Bosnia, Croatia and China in a mix of business and pleasure. We get to our house at Wintergreen every chance we get.”

Dave Lucado: “Sorry to miss the reunion. I just sold my house in Richmond, and I’m living almost full time in Italy now.”

Donald Jones: “I’ve lived in Orange, Virginia, for more than 25 years. Still working for Washtech – just celebrated 20 years in business.

I have been with the company from start up to today. Occasionally see Rick Sherman.”

David Wrenn: “Still working for Booz Allen

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Hamilton. I have been at Fort Belvoir since August but will be moving to another contract at Fort Meade shortly. Finishing up my year as president of the Montgomery Village Community Band with our Fourth of July parade (no, I’m not the drum major here) and concert. I play tenor sax for them and baritone sax for the affiliated jazz band, the Blue Notes. Saw Tom Tucker perform May 12 as part of the Piedmont Symphony Orchestra accompanying the Reston Chorale. I’ll let him provide the details, but he can still rock! We discussed that the last time I heard him perform was rat year after we broke out. He was on guitar and Clint Franklin on banjo playing the theme from the movie ‘Deliverance.’ We recall Larry Fluty dancing to that.”

Tom Tucker: “Yes! It was most excellent to see David Wrenn at my performance with the Reston Chorale. (We did ‘The Bohemian Rhapsody’ live!) Musically, I have been performing as a ‘hired gun’ for some of the symphonic pop concerts in the region. Good fun, and it forces me to practice. Life is always good at home with Krista.

My career at Edward Jones keeps getting better, and thanks to that, I am able to pay for my music habit! If you are in the Warrenton area, give me a call. I’m easy to find through the EJ website.

Glad you all had such a great reunion. Dave is going to ‘put the band back together,’ so I may make the 45th.”

Gary Snyder: “Great reunion; I can’t believe it was over so fast! Seeing all of the 142 ghetto crew we are still laughing about it. And we are going to ensure we pay some more visits to see our 142 family sooner. I needed more time to connect to more BRs, but Facebook sure helps. Still in northern Kentucky near Cincy and the bourbon trail. Working as a vice president for HDT Global. Except for one daughter in Asheville, all of the kids and grandkids are here. We still travel to Washington, D.C., and we still have our Redskins season tickets. So, we get back there to see mom and dad and my brother and sister.”

Bob Magnan: “Same old – some progress on my sciatica via ablation, introducing an electric current near the nerve ending to kill it. Sounds freaky, but it works.”

Robert Fricke: “Back to the old grind after a wonderful reunion. Great seeing everybody after all these years. Other than that: Status check – all right, sir!”

Mike Oelrich: “Great reunion! It was fun catching up with everyone.”

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Bruce Kay: “Great reunion. Also great seeing everyone.”

Joe Tulskie: “Not enough time to catch up with everyone!”

Andy Faulconer: “Great reunion, one of the best ever. I enjoyed seeing some folks for the first time since graduation. Excellent venues and wellplanned event. Since then, I’ve had extensive sinus surgery May 9. Recovery is slow but progressing. Expecting two new grandkids June 27. My daughter and daughter-in-law (wife of son Drew Faulconer ’10) are scheduled on the same day. It should be a special day.”

Mike Freeman: “Well, nothing new other than great reflection on our 40th. Retired and did a little consulting (or telling them my opinion), but the relaxing and chasing 10- and 12-year-old grandsons is more fun. Great seeing everyone!”

Danny Thorton: “Great seeing all the BRs at the reunion – best one yet!”

Jim Mackin: “Doing ‘all right’ in northern Virginia – looking forward to the annual New Market Day gathering in the center courtyard for VMI alumni working in the Pentagon. I think Bruce Kay and I will be representing ’78 this year, since Allen Moore will be TDY.” Leland Horn: “All right here in Melbourne. I now know what the one-legged guy was going through.”

Garry Brumback: “Jennifer and I have returned home, and I am the city manager of Treasure Island, Florida. We are close to my dad and loving being back in the sunshine state. Sorry we missed the reunion – looking forward to reading all about it.”

Jay Hutt: “Great reunion, but just who were those old guys who all seemed to know my name?

Ha. Kudos and thanks to the committee; we are already looking forward to the next one. A shoutout to my cousin, Bill Atwill, and bride Nicole: Great seeing you, Bill, after too many years, and especially so meeting Nicole. And another to Southampton County homey, Kenny Blythe: We’ll catch up in Franklin soon.”

Bruce Kay: “‘All right.’ Had a great time at the reunion. Wonderful seeing everyone!”

Bob Jenvey: “All right in Richmond, Virginia.

Enjoyed seeing everyone at the reunion.”

Les Shimanek: “I really enjoyed the 40th. Best bunch of guys anyone could ever meet. Off to Guam in June for the month.”

Mikey McCarthy: “All is good here at Fort Leonard Wood. Settling into my new job. The

past 90 days have been focused on learning how to wear the 17 different hats I have here. The next couple of months will have me on the road from Korea to Germany to Israel and the Middle East and United States Southern Command. I will send you a picture from my swearing in ceremony after I arrive.”

Tim Pishdad: “Cynthia and I were so happy to see so many BRs at the reunion. It was an honor to give the Saturday blessing at our dinner. I was committed to buying a VMI tie and was so disappointed at the offerings at the ‘I,’ so I walked away emptyhanded. However, Monday following the reunion, I was blessed to find a vintage VMI tie at a Goodwill in Richmond. It was in perfect condition and a real bargain for three dollars. I continue to open my home to any VMI BR. I have a small place, but you are always welcome.”

Greg Gearhart: “All right! Fantastic reunion; thanks for everyone’s hard work.”

Mark Lowe: “All all right here! Had son, daughter and son-in-law in for Mother’s Day weekend.

Stacey and I are prepping for our trip to Germany.

All the best to you and yours.”

Frank Fountain: “All right! Thanks again for the fantastic reunion.”

Mark Lambert: “All right here. Great seeing everyone again at the reunion. Do we have to wait five more years?”

Ron Carter: “All right!”

Don Robey: “I am working in Leeds, U.K., and living in York, U.K.; I came back Tuesday after the reunion. I will be here until mid-September. Biddy is coming over in May through June. Nothing like seeing the U.K. on company’s nickel – at least on the evenings and weekends. A great way to end my career and help these lads out with locomotive issues.”

Alec Earle: “All right. After the 40th Reunion (great time), we traveled back to our almond farm in California. Now getting ready for our first harvest in August/September.”

Jay Branscome: “All right. It was great to see everyone at the reunion!”

Sam Saunders: “All right. We had a great time at the reunion. Thanks to all who did the planning and organizing.”

Bill Atwill: “All right!”

Ron Dolan: “Spending time in D.C., but what else is new. Board meeting in White Sulfur Springs, West Virginia. Good to see BRs at 40th.

My wife and I are getting closer to semiretirement and have moved to our lake home. I don’t

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Class Notes think I will retire as long as work is challenging and fun. Sixth grandchild is due in mid-July. Traveling to Farnborough for the air show and continue to work closely with many of our defense contractors keeping America safer. Plan to get some fishing in this summer, and any BRs and their families are always welcome to stop by the lake west of Alexandria, Minnesota, to fish, hunt or relax by a fire.”

Rich Bartosik: “All right. I went code blue for 12 minutes after a heart cath. After being revived, I spent two days in ICU and another couple of days in the regular hospital. But I am alive. Also, I want to apologize for missing the reunion, but the last six months have been hard. Wheelchair, ventilator, oxygen and two deaths in the family (older sister and younger brother’s wife). But I am doing well and enjoying my new puppy. Will try to make it to the next one.”

Rick Sherman: “All right!”

Craig Wallen: “I’m sure you’ll hear plenty of accolades for the reunion team; I definitely want to add mine. I had much more fun than I anticipated I would. I bought a couple of VMI-branded wineglasses at the ‘X’ Reunion weekend – red blend tastes so much better! Only other thing to report is that after not having seen Tim Berkhimer in 10-plus years, in addition to spending a bunch of time with him at the reunion, I saw him again this past weekend when I was refereeing his nephew’s soccer game. We had a great time again – two times in less than 30 days!”

Joe Tulskie: “After a great reunion – why wouldn’t it be – I’m heading north to Sea Isle City, New Jersey. Stop by for a beer or an outside shower, fellow BRs. Hate leaving Florida.”

Johnny Garnett: “Made it back to the Pacific Northwest in one piece. All is well on this side of the country, and there is this big shiny thing up in the sky that we here in Washington are unfamiliar with but do see it once in a while. We think it’s called the ‘sun’ by other states, but we just celebrate whenever it comes out. So it’s party time in the PN, at least today. What a great time at the reunion! Was really good to see and spend time with ‘everyone.’ Will try not to stay away so long by keeping a better eye on current class and Institute events. Blessings to all.”

Scott Lacagnin: “Sorry I missed the reunion, but I was taking a battery of classes for court security. Still a police officer and slowly working from patrol into bailiff duties. When I’m not doing that, I conduct technical surveillance countermeasures

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for an investigations firm. I’m into collecting old Colts and Winchesters but did come across a nice Martini Henry .577/450 rifle used by the British at Islandlwana, Zululand, 1879. Gonna be fun shooting a 140-year-old rifle.”

Jimmy Leech: “Well, it’s been a bit of a rough year so far. My father, retired Brigadier General Lloyd L. Leech Jr. ’42, died March 23 at age 98.

He was old and suffering from dementia, so I guess it was time. On the other hand, my brotherin-law, retired Colonel George M. (‘Chip’) Brooke III ’67, was a robust, active 73-year-old when he died four days later of a rare, aggressive type of kidney cancer which had been diagnosed in January. That one was harder to take. Being thus distracted, I missed yet another reunion, but it looks like you guys had a good time. Wish I could have been there. Maybe the 45th. Otherwise, we’re doing OK.” Bill Robertson: “Great 40th Reunion! Status – all right!”

Tim Berkhimer: “All right, sir. Great reunion!”

John Forsyth: “All good. Great seeing all of you wonderful knuckleheads again!”

John Tucker: “All right in Columbus, Ohio.”

Don Hogge: “All right.”

Chris Stone: “Status is all right. Was recently on post for the 2018 Environment Virginia Symposium. I am on the planning committee and moderated several events. Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 spoke to the attendees. Trying to remember if I made him strain or not? Just got back from D.C. and the National MATHCOUNTS Competition. I am on their board, representing the National Society of Professional Engineers.

This year, we had Wil Wheaton of ‘Big Bang Theory’ fame as our master of ceremonies. What a great event for promoting math to sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders. Weather is warming up.

Need to get that surf fishing pole out that my wife gave me for Christmas and try it out soon – any takers?”

Nelson Curtis: “All right. I very much enjoyed the reunion.”

Pete Manoso: “I’m all right. It was good to see everybody at our 40th Reunion. My sincere thanks for all the hard work put in by the committee. You did good. I downloaded the VMI app – my very first. I found it easy to use and very useful. I recommend it to all alumni.”

Ken Blythe: “All right! Happy New Market Day! Started with some Rebel Yell in my coffee, playing Billy Idol’s ‘Rebel Yell’ and giving an ole

rebel yell loud enough to wake our fallen brothers at New Market.”

That brings it to a close for this addition. You have shown that the spirit is still alive in ’78 with all of your input. Thanks for making these notes great. As always, time to send more notes. Remember to join us on Facebook. If you do not use it but your significant other does, have them request to join. See you at a football game, I hope.

Tom/EZ Bear

1979

Michael Ogden

So, I have learned that when lacking class notes inputs, “break glass” and invoke Renee.

Nick Collins’ first ever report “... living the dream in Staunton. About 10 years ago, I left the concrete world and went over to the dark side (asphalt) and partnered with Chuck Weatherman ’92. I get to talk with Jeb Burton from time to time. (Another dark side fellow). We have been blessed in our business endeavor. Otherwise I’m farming on the side, playing music and sitting on our local school board!” Thanks for the first-ever notes submission, Nick!

Larry Betz wrote in: “Susan and I and our daughter, Laura, are vacationing in Naples, Florida, for two weeks. We have to return to Baltimore for the graduation of my son, Matt, from his Johns Hopkins anesthesia residency Saturday, May 19, and then fly back here for another week in the sun. We hope the weather clears (overcast since we came Friday)! I have been busy at home helping with Habitat for Humanity Susquehanna as a construction supervisor/volunteer and as a proposal writer and instructor for a leadership program at Loyola University (Baltimore). I have a grandson, Lucca, that Susan and I have been watching grow, and Matt and Mel are expecting a new daughter on or about June 15.”

Pete Alvarez scribed, “I am enjoying retired life in our new Denver, North Carolina, home. (No, I do not live near ski slopes!) Charlotte and I live in a new Trilogy active adult community about a half-hour northwest of Charlotte, North Carolina. I have already reached out to Steve Lyon who works in Charlotte, and we hope to meet soon for coffee or lunch. I also recently returned

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes from Australia (business) with an Aussie hat for our good friend, Uncle Stosh (since we occasionally collaborate on military analysis instruction).

I also get up to Springfield, Virginia, a few times a year (also for business) and get to lunch with Brian Tollie since I run classes at his organization.

I look forward to getting really settled in Denver and hope to see any BRs whistling through the area!”

Brian Tollie checked in: “Pete Underwood and I visited Lexington a couple of weeks ago to attend the World War I seminar. We had a great time and Friday night, we were hanging out in Taps (Teddy Gottwald’s [’83] place, I think) on the ground floor of the Georges (aka McCormick Inn, aka ‘Ducks’). Earlier in the day, we visited a World War I weapons display in the VMI Museum, which led to a discussion of the bar. Pete mentioned something about a ‘three-round burst,’ just as the bartender walked by. The bartender said, ‘Three-round burst?’ to which I quipped, ‘Yeah, it’s a drink.’ It wasn’t, of course, but over the next 30 minutes and with Pete’s expert knowledge of mixology, it became just that: A mixed drink composed of ingredients from France, Great Britain and the USA. When he rang us up, the receipt showed ‘3RoundBurst.’ As I said, Pete is the mixologist, so I’ll defer to him on the precise recipe, but it included apple jack and Laphroaig and a couple of French ingredients. Pete and I are planning a Balkan adventure next October, so hopefully more drinks will come of that. I saw Tom Manley yesterday. He returned my wife’s bike after an expert tune up. Tom is planning to walk the Camino in Spain.”

All is well with the Callaway clan in Richmond.

Travis penned, “I’m still with the FBI at Quantico, and Terri has been elevated to principal of Baskervill Architects in Richmond. We are both contemplating retirement but not quite ready to pull the plug yet. Three daughters are all in town – two married, and one of those is expecting in October.

This will be our first grandchild. I use to think I was too young to be called grandad but kinda liking the sound of it now.

Son Coleman is finishing up his 2nd Class year at the ‘I.’ Terri and I were privileged and proud to be present at Ring Figure and see him receive his ring this year.

One more year to go and then maybe we can seriously think about retiring. Our BR and one of my rat roommates, Bahrain

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Zahir Nejad, “Bo,” tracked me down through Terri’s Facebook post, and we have been exchanging emails. Bo has been back in Iran since graduation and is doing well. He has asked about our BR Don Wells and would like to hear from him, so if anyone has contact info for Don and can pass it on, it would be appreciated. Other than that, I’ve been keeping busy with reconditioning a secondhand boat to get her ready for the season and in the water at our place on Gwynn’s Island at the bay. Looking forward to the reunion and seeing old friends again.”

Steve Powers sold their hunting and fishing flying business in Alaska this past January and is

Class of 1979: Greg Weaver and his wife, Althea, at the 2018 Raleigh National College Fair in Raleigh, North Carolina.

trading in his airplanes for tractors and managing their farm in Kentucky. Steve has learned a lot over the years about maintaining and setting up a farm from the master at it, Brad Jones.

Bart Cramer is still working at the same company he has been at for 37 years. He wrote that he’ll give them 40 if they will have him and then he plans to retire. He is helping his wife out quite a bit with her parents, who still live somewhat independently (they are 95 and 92) doing shopping, running them to different doctors’ appointments, etc. His daughters and granddaughters are doing fine so nothing to complain about.

Meade Spotts sent the following with the caveat that I stop the whining: “Besides running Buckingham Slate, Brad Jones has opened a new venture – homemade pecan pies from his mother’s famous Georgia recipe. Pies are delivered hot out of the oven before 9 a.m. Monday-Friday and delivered by Jones himself. Make sure to ask for the BR discount and free samples.”

David Smith lamented, “I wish I could tell you something interesting from the last three months, but it’s been a quiet period. I helped with security and traffic at the Apple Blossom Festival in Winchester, which was uneventful (thank God), and I have been mostly healthy. I’m still trying to promote the Virginia Defense Force, because despite the fact that they’re part of the Department of Military Affairs, as volunteers they get very little support from the commonwealth. They have meetings at VMI sometimes, which is interesting, but mostly prepare to respond to emergencies within the commonwealth and do so at their own expense. They always need more people and more funding.”

Bob Sievert recently got a “reach out” from Eric Schwartz to get advice for the company he works with on potential opportunities to work with other states. Bob shared with his coworkers that while he didn’t have any dirt on Eric to share, he could always dredge up old photos from our days gone by at the “I.” A true BR! They evidently all got a big chuckle. Apparently, Eric is thought of quite highly by his company, and they could not believe that there’d be anything but good things from Eric’s past.

Larry Adams checked in with “It’s been a while; I live a fairly boring life, so I’ll start with my children, whose lives I sometimes live through vicariously.

My son is an Air Force B-52 pilot who

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Class Notes just got back from being deployed to the Middle East for seven months. We were glad to have him visit for a week as part of his R&R. He learned a whole lot, as it was his first deployment, but he was ready to come back to the states, for sure! I think Minot, North Dakota, looked good to him when compared to the Middle East. My daughter works for an (entertainment) artist management company in Nashville and, as a result, was able to attend the Grammy Award ceremony/show as one of their artists, The Secret Sisters, was nominated for Best Album in the Americana genre but alas did not win. I’m still working away at my job and have consistently kept off about 14-18 pounds for about six to eight months now. Hopefully, I’ll be able to keep them off from now on! My wife, Ellen, is looking great and is awesome at everything she does! I am so blessed to have her in my life! My mom is hanging in there, by herself, in her own house and in her mid-80s but just broke her wrist. I, my wife and my daughter are going to Israel for 12 nights this summer, so I’ll try to make room for my shockingly horrible VMI ’79 Hawaiian shirt for a photo or two in it!” Thanks for the great update, Larry! Looking forward to the awesome Hawaiian shirt photo!

Jim Pigg says he’s “too busy” building his RV-7 to write you a note. Jim’s objective is to fly it to our 40th Reunion. It only seats two; he says he’ll bring Cathy with him! I think we need a signup sheet for flights reunion Saturday afternoon! Barnstorming!

Ben Bauman wrote, “Tracy and I are doing well. I am still splitting time between Crystal City and Peachtree City. My son, Ben, and Becky are moving to Nashville from Raleigh with their three children (Ben, Pierce and Georgie). Alana is stationed at Hurlburt Field now. Christina is working in Atlanta and purchased a house this past year.

Tracy and I are looking to purchase a home in the Florida panhandle. We are looking for warmer climate and some beaches nearby. We are looking forward to the reunion next spring.”

John Arthur updated us with, “Pete Underwood and I have met several times – for breakfast, and he came to visit while I was at the lake house! Drinks and dinner – catching up. Doug Doerr just completed the 2018 Virginia Cap-toCap bike ride. He ‘strong-armed’ Jess and I into joining him this year, but several issues precluded us from participating. And Jess and I will be moving to Williamsburg in June. Downsizing and stepping back from the chaos and traffic here in Norfolk/Chesapeake!”

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Tom Baltazar reported he was out in Camp Pendleton a few months ago supporting a U.S. Marine Corps Exercise (MEFEX-18) and called up Rick Hall, who lives in Rancho Santa Fe. Fortunately, Rick was around, and they had the opportunity to hang out few times and catch up.

Zar said, “Happy to say Rick is doing well. He invited me to dinner with Pauline and another Keydet, Will Creekmur ’83, who has been living out there in the land of fruits and nuts for a few years now. In any case, one of the best meals I’ve had in a long time, and the company was even better.

Rick may be coming out to the East Coast to celebrate Noel Harris’ mom’s 90th the first week of June; it will be a good time, I’m sure. Speaking of Mule, I got a surprise call yesterday from Noel. It seems Bill Albro got talked into coming down to his river house on the North River to help move a pile of concrete in his yard. Not sure what Noel offered him, but whatever it was, it wasn’t enough!

Glad summer is finally here. Picked up my oyster spat yesterday and will grow them until around Thanksgiving when they’ll be ready to eat. Nothing like Chesapeake Bay oysters!”

John Kaily said his “numbers” were good again, and the doctor says his clean living means he will be around for a while. John said, “Good thing; I have too much left to do. I have reached Fontana dam and the entrance to the Smokies on the Appalachian Trail. Not sure I am ready for this next bit. Family is OK – oldest has one more year of college. Wonder what a traditional college experience is actually like?”

R.J. Bartol sent, “I am happy to report that my son, Joe Bartol ’09, and his wife, Liz, are expecting the first part of October. This will be Marguerite’s and my first grandchild. Exciting times ahead for us!” Congratulations! Awesome news!

David Taylor wrote, “My youngest of three daughters (Noelle) just graduated from the University of Cincinnati April 28! Although she has no student loans, is it too early to start bugging her about a j-o-b? I mean, it’s been two weeks ... My oldest, Rachel, works full time for the Air Force Research Laboratory at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, and on the side, she is the owner of two ladies’ Dance Fit Studios that recently won Best New Gym in Dayton. All the while, she and her husband raise two children, Raye Lee (4) and David Lee (3). My middle daughter, Sarah, is a mechanical engineer working for Boeing in Washington, D.C. A year ago, she moved from Los Angeles, where she installed propulsion systems

on satellites at launch sites all over the world, to now sitting in a highly-secured facility monitoring them. She preferred the hands-on work much more. The good thing is we can drive to D.C. in a day to see her and our daughter-in-law, who just pinned on major in the U.S. Air Force. I just got an MRI on my left shoulder; tear in rotator cuff, tear in bicep tendon, arthritis, inflammation and in need of collarbone shaving, but I can still swing a golf club without much pain, so surgery will be in the fall. I can’t miss golf season!” No, you cannot.

Priorities, right?

A reminder to mark your calendars for next year’s 40th Reunion! Reunion dates are Friday to Sunday, April 26-28, 2019. I will start contacting each of you this spring to update address, phone and email information. Should you have any suggestions for the reunion, drop me a note.

The tentative plan will be to have the main dinner Friday night with, in all probability, a less formal gathering Saturday night plus a farewell breakfast Sunday morning. Possible Thursday early arrival gathering like last reunion, should we have a local BR volunteer (hint). All venues are still undecided.

Blood pressure 123/73 with resting pulse of 66 – “how’s you doin’?” Annual physical upcoming this fall along with colonoscopy and endoscopy.

A two-fer! Not that you are all that interested in my numbers – just my annoying reminder to make sure you are talking care of yourselves! John Vaughan’s difficult time post-surgery with an infected knee and my oh-so-fun time with an undiagnosed shingles outbreak are just a few examples of our advancing age and our need to be vigilant with our health care. OK, I’ll shaddup. For now.

Stay well, brother rats. Renee and I are so looking forward to next April!

–M

1980

John Gibney Jr.

Hello Brother Rats, These notes cover the period Feb. 16, 2018, through May 15, 2018.

The period began with an email from John Briggs that provided his new email address. Please see the closing paragraphs and the comments

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes about the VMI website and VMI promised to call back – see below.

Ranks.

I received several text messages.

I next received an email from WayFrank Hilton sent a text with a photo land Patterson regarding one of the taken in Nashville where he ran into Bob Hillard. Frank described their regular events he organizes in the meeting as a long-overdue reunion Panama City, Florida, area for alumof two roommates. ni of VMI, The Citadel, Texas A&M I exchanged text messages with and Norwich University.

Chris Dombalis in connection with Joe Paustenbaugh sent an email the VMI band leading the St. Patfrom his home in Liberty, Utah, where he and Michelle are doing rick’s Day parade in NYC and the well. Joe’s message included photos Alumni Association gathering in taken on a backpacking trip that he support of the band. Chris was untook to northern Thailand with his available, but Patti and I attended the daughter, Liza. They hiked from vilevent and watched the band lead the parade. lage to village and stayed with locals Ed Baker wrote that he now has in their huts.

Class of 1980: Dave Gleason, Steve Kraus, Jack Keane, Pete Peteran iPhone. Ed was stranded at his Jack Keane sent an email with a man and Joe Belkoski following dinner in Maryland, April 2018.

Outer Banks beach house due to a photo taken at a surprise birthday Nor’easter. Although Ed, an OB-GYN physiparty for Dave Gleason that was organized

by Dave’s wife, Carol. Our BRs who attended cian, has “retired,” he is very busy at work. were Tom Bersson, Don Bradshaw, Mick Cole, Pat McCarthy sent an email from Maryland Mike Flynn and Tony Zoetis. after receiving his birthday card and noted that Andy Brown sent an email that OK’d the puball is well.

Tracy Wilson sent an email asking if a list of our lication of his photo taken at his retirement ceredeceased BRs exists. Thanks to Jack Keane for a mony (see the last issue of the Alumni Review). prompt response. Names and dates appear below March began with an email from Alex Woelp(with the OK from the Alumni Association). er. Alex wrote that he had been overseas but I spoke with Hugh Fain on his birthday, and sent belated condolences on the passing of Mike we had a FaceTime discussion. Eerily, we were Alston. wearing the same dress shirt. Hugh gave me a I received a call from Jeff Washington. Jeff tour of his law firm that included the way his and Renee were in New York City with their staff celebrated his 60th birthday. daughter to attend a tennis match at Madison Class of 1980: Frank Hilton and Bob HillAs March closed, Brenda Alston sent an email Square Garden. We met for lunch, and Jeff folard reunited after 32 years in Nashville, message containing a thank you to our BRs and lowed up with a text message and two photos Tennessee, in March 2018. to all at VMI who provided support to Brenda – one taken in Grand Central Terminal and the and her family. other at MSG. April began with a call from Ray Joinson. Ray I next spoke with Gary Levenson, VMI’s and Carla were driving from their home in Tendeputy commandant, on his birthday. Gary was preparing for spring break and some time away nessee to Washington, D.C., to help their son, from VMI. Eric, relocate from D.C. to Oklahoma City. Ray I also spoke with Pat Griffin on his birthday. is retired from the Air Force.

Pat was flying solo in snowy (2 feet on the ground) Next, I spoke with John Alerding on his birthNew England, as Beth was visiting Phil and Kathy day. John lives in Lexington and is also retired Munisteri in Long Island and both of their sons from the Air Force as well as from teaching, are out of the house. Pat said that Phil Munisteri although John still wants to do some kind of has retired from teaching, and Kathy is planning work. to retire this year. Their daughter, Meghan, is gradMy wife, Patti, communicates with Tanya Keys, Matthew’s wife. Tanya sent a text to Patti uating from medical school and will be promoted to captain in the Army while beginning her resisaying that Matthew and Tanya are going to be Class of 1980: Jeff and Renee Washgrandparents. dency. Their son, Connor, is a corrections officer ington in Madison Square Garden in Walt Kreitler sent an email with photos from in Suffolk County, New York.

March 2018.

Melbourne, Florida, where he and Carrie now Bill Wallace called, but I could not talk and

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Class Notes live. Walt is doing consulting work in the U.K. and the D.C. area. Walt wrote that he and Carrie established a scholarship at VMI to support the swimming program – thank you! Walt also wrote that he traveled with Ken and Carol Baybutt to Charleston for the VMI versus The Citadel football game. They are also considering a trip to Long Island in June to attend the U.S. Open golf tournament at Shinnecock Hills.

Bert Schneider called from his home in Arizona.

At one point, we discussed the Grand Canyon, and Bert offered an invitation to stay with him and Peggy then sent photos of their home. On May 4 (Star Wars day, may the fourth be with you!) Bert attended the University of Arizona baseball game dressed as Darth Vader. He then visited the pediatric unit of the Diamond Children’s Medical Center, again dressed as Darth Vader.

Class of 1980: Joe Paustenbaugh and his daughter, Liza, took a backpacking trip to Thailand in February 2018.

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I received a call from a member of another class who wanted to connect with Mike Harper.

When this occurs, I reach out to our BR with the requester’s contact information. They did connect.

Jack Keane sent a photo after he met for dinner in Maryland with Joe Belkoski, Dave Gleason, Steve Kraus and Pete Peterman.

I spoke again with Pat Griffin. Pat presides over the New England region of the Alumni Association, and they attended a Red Sox game at Fenway Park May 1 (the Sox then lost two of three at Yankee Stadium). Pat heard from Jack Keane and Dan Sweeney and was planning to visit VMI in June.

I finally caught up with Bill Wallace; my bad for not reaching out sooner. Bill is retired from the Army, lives in Alabama and sees Russ Early from time to time. Bill said that except for the tornado that caused repairable damage to his home, all is well.

May began with a text from Tracy Wilson.

Tracy is planning a family vacation to Peru this summer and wanted to connect with Walt Wood. They are now connected.

Ed Baker called and then sent a text noting that he was passing through the Poconos on his way home from a fishing trip to New Brunswick, Canada, where he escaped the worst flood in New Brunswick in 55 years.

Phil Munisteri sent an email attached to a notification of an Alumni Association cycling event to be held in Maryland in October. Notification of the event was sent to our BRs. As noted above, if you have not already done so, please access VMI Ranks on the VMI website and confirm and/or update your information.

As also noted above, our BRs who are no longer with us, in order of their passing: Mike Burch, April 21, 1977; Pete Barrow, Mike Collier and Bob Shelley, May 10, 1977; Robert Newbill, Dec. 27, 1978; Garth Geiglein, March 7, 1993; Jeff Morgan, April 14, 2000; Dan Allen, July 2, 2004; Tim Dugan Aug. 10, 2006; Hossein Khoshpasand, Oct. 11, 2006; George Snyder, Feb. 13, 2012; Joe Brown, April 19, 2013; Dave Sheahan, Aug. 26, 2015; Denis McCarty, July 24, 2016; and Mike Alston, Jan. 30, 2018.

Thank you for your continued support. Please enter my cell number and email address (both listed above) into your phone so you can more readily keep in touch.

1981

Jerry Manley

BRs, By the time this write-up makes print, it should be mid-August. I pray that each of you have had a blessed summer and a very blessed Memorial Day, as well as a happy and safe Fourth of July! (I hope that I will see/have seen many of you and the annual ski bash hosted by BR Jim Hart and family on the Fourth!)

Regretfully, this edition of our class notes may appear bit rushed. While I had planned to write them early, work and life got the best of me. Far too many demands, and I find myself fine tuning this narrative just hours before it is due. (Kind of like how I used to cram for exams as my dear roomie, Grover Outland, never taught me how to properly break away from all my letter writing and focus; and, yes, I still blame him, haha!)

I don’t typically write much about my own life events in the Review, but I will share that I am just back from nearly two weeks in Hawaii (a place I truly love) where I was able to celebrate the graduation of my daughter, Jenna, from her master’s program. It was a special event, as I was able to take my mother along with me.

Class of 1981: Greg Wolven and Karl Betz at the National Electrical Safety Code Summit.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Code. (The NESC has helped guard The family and I pulled out the stops the safety and efficiency of electric and made it a trip Mom will rememsupply, communication lines and reber. I am also very happy that my daughter, Jenna, and my son-in-law, lated equipment since 1914.) Greg reRobert, will be returning to Virginia mains busy with work and affiliations after his three-year tour with the 1st with various engineering groups. His Battalion, Third Marines at Marine loving wife, Ann, remains busy with Corps Base, Kaneohe. With that, teaching college and grading papers enough about me – onward to the as we approach the end of the school inputs received! year. Greg also shared that he and First in the lineup is recognition Ann, along with BR Dave Loduca, for Maj. Gen. Paul Brier, who attended the New Market dinner with retired after an impressive career the St. Louis Chapter. During the with the United States Marine chapter visit, they all made the pilClass of 1981: Bill Bird, Jeff Adler and Dan Pere admiring Jeff’s Corps. Gen. Joseph F. Dunford license plate – not to mention Jeff’s new Corvette. grimage to the Bellefontaine CemeJr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of tery. Bellefontaine has the distinction Staff, presented the Distinguished of having more Medal of Honor reService Medal to Paul during his cipients than any other cemetery outretirement ceremony Feb. 23, side of Arlington. In addition to vet2018. Paul retired after 36 years erans from every American war back of service upon his return from to the Revolutionary War, it has two Afghanistan, where he served as members of the New Market Corps: deputy commander for civil outPrivate Pendleton ’867 from Comreach and director, advise and aspany A and Private Tardy ’867 from Company B. Ann and Greg are plansist directorate, for NATO’s Resolute Support Mission. Subsequent ning a long weekend at VMI this sumto this deployment, Paul served as mer and hoped to see as many friends commanding general, 4th Marine as possible while there. Greg and Ann Division. (Words cannot capture also continue to provide significant the pride and respect we all hold support to our class Facebook page.

Class of 1981: Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., chairman of the Joint for you, Paul ... I mean BR major (Great sharing, Greg. Many thanks general ... sir. Outstanding accom- Chiefs of Staff, presented the Distinguished Service Medal to for all you and Ann do, BR!) Maj. Gen. Paul Brier during Brier’s retirement ceremony Feb. Dave Taylor reported that his plishment, Marine!)

23, 2018. youngest two, twins Mary and MeAdrian Bogart chimed in with a very welcomed update. Adrian led a U.S. delegan, received Department of Defense SMART scholarships. They are both juniors and sysgation to South Africa and Zimbabwe Feb. 19, 2018. These were breakthrough engagements tems engineering majors at George Mason for which the honorable Emmerson DamUniversity on the accelerated master’s degree track. Comparable to ROTC, these scholarbudzo Mnangagwa, president of the Republic of Zimbabwe, tweeted, “Great meeting today ships cover full tuition, a $25,000 annual stiwith Adrian Bogart, Director of African Afpend, internships with sponsoring agencies and follow-on assignments as DOD civilians fairs of the @WHNSC, and a delegation from at those agencies. Mary will be going to the the U.S. They assured me that U.S. commitNational Geospatial Intelligence Agency and ment to Zimbabwe has not changed. We will Megan to Marine Corps Systems Command. continue to engage.” (See https://twitter.com/ Dave, being the loving and attentive father that edmnangagwa/status/965605604646641665). he is, is looking for any potential mentors from With Adrian at the helm, U.S. relations are our class for these young ladies. If available, sure to be strong. capable and interested, please contact Dave Greg Wolven has been extremely busy with Class of 1981: Adrian Bogart on his way directly! a significant number of business trips this to lead the U.S. delegation to South AfEd Boylan and his beautiful wife, Linda, spent year. His travels afforded him the opportunity rica and the Republic of Zimbabwe in a couple of weeks in Dallas waiting for the birth to catch up with Karl Betz while at an execuFebruary 2018. of their first granddaughter, who arrived March tive meeting of the National Electrical Safety

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Class Notes 29, 2018. Ms. Evelyn Pearl Boylan was a healthy 8 pounds, 6 ounces and 21 inches long.

Momma Bear, as Ed affectionately refers to Linda, already wants to move back to Texas to be near her grandbaby. Ed reported that Linda may pack her bags, leaving him as a geographic bachelor. (Ed, I am betting the under once she sees that we have referred to her as “Momma Bear” in print!) Ed has already started the provisional appointment paperwork for young Evelyn. In additional Boylan news, daughter Peri graduated in May from Johns Hopkins University with a master’s degree in museum sciences and hopes to land a career in a museum on the East Coast.

Dan Gallagher shared that his latest book publishing date has been delayed to late July.

At the time of Dan’s input, he projected that by the end of May, his short story, “The Dawn of Reason” will be in The Earth Anthology from Superversive Press, an Australian company that has published some successful anthologies. Dan also shared that his son, Matt, recently became engaged. His daughter, Kristen, is also doing well in her corporate human resources training and talent retention business, EdifyEdu.com, while other daughter, Erin, is a tutor for several subjects in Charlotte. Dan’s youngest, Joe, just turned 17 and is doing well in 11th grade. To crown it all, Dan and wife Laura recently celebrated their 30th anniversary. (Congrats to you and Laura, Dan, and may God continue to bless Laura, as she clearly is a saint with the patience of Job!) Jim Waring reported that he is still in Virginia Beach. He also does a fair amount of

travel for his job and wrote of his recent return from a business trip to Poland on which his wife, Catherine, was able to join him. Jim attended the VMI versus Old Dominion University baseball game in Norfolk back in March where he usually runs into Jeff Davies, but Jeff was “missing from formation.” (Great hearing from you, Jim. As for Jeff, no excuse, sir!)

Quick Hitters: Gary Morgan shared that he was heading to Ireland at the end of May for “some bucket list golf – seven rounds in seven days and a few more than seven pints!” (I suspect Gary may be more successful with the latter than the former! Send pictures, Gary!)

Mike Denton shared that the latest edition to the ever expanding Denton clan arrived March 9, 2018. Thomas Daniel Shumate is the fifth grandchild and was born to daughter Allie and son-in-law Ryan Shumate. (Congrats, Mike!

Not sure if you are leading the class in grandbabies, but you are certainly a contender!)

Jeff Adler, Dan Pere and Bill Bird all got together for dinner April 5, 2015, in Port Charlotte, Florida. (Not much else was reported by Jeff, so I am guessing that “what goes on in Port Charlotte stays in Port Charlotte!”)

The ever-selfless Rob Costello didn’t have much to share for himself, but he wanted to include news about Danielle Hart, the beautiful and loving daughter of BR Jim Hart, making the U.S. Woman’s Collegiate National Volleyball Team set to compete in Europe in July! A tremendous achievement of that rising Wisconsin sophomore, and I am certain I will be including more on Danielle in future class notes to come!

In closing, I want to recognize the loss of two

Class of 1981: Attending the St. Louis Chapter New Market dinner were, from left, Tim Bailey ’85, Gus Kline ’57, Harry Gore ’72, Fred Werth ’95, Dave Loduca, M.B. Adelson ’73, Mike Burke ’73, Greg Wolven, Louis Rucker ’86, Jay Virtue ’79 and Tony Hamilton ’79. Not pictured is Bob Whaley ’65.

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wonderful women in our extended family of the Class of ’81. It is with sincere love and respect that I write of the passing of Ms. Margaret “Teancy” Outland and Ms. Elizabeth Louise “Beau” Ferry, the beloved mothers of BRs Grover Outland and John Ferry. Both Teancy and Beau were beautiful and devoted mothers with a zest for life; both moved on to the arms of our Lord in February 2018. Since our rat year, many BRs, including myself, had the honor and joy of knowing and loving them both as if they were our own.

There were many more BRs and VMI alumni who showed an outpouring of respect and sympathies to both families. As this year continues, please keep both of these strong and supportive VMI moms and their sons and surviving families in your hearts, thoughts and prayers.

That is all from me for now, BRs! I will work to do a better job for the next edition – still jetlagged and suffering from too many Mai Tais.

Please stay in touch, and keep the inputs coming! Good health and God’s blessings to you all!

In the bonds and with “much aloha,” Jerry

1982

Will Council

Hello, Brother Rats!

Happy spring! Oh wait, the temps are already in the 90s, so it must be summer. What the heck is going on around here? Hope everyone is staying busy, and I know many of you are making the final plans prepping for retirement. A lucky few are ahead of the game, so we could all learn a few lessons from them. Here is the news that is fit to print!

John Boyd is still working hard. Both he and Susan are enjoying their grandchildren, including their new 4-month-old granddaughter. Their son survived his first rugby season, and now Susan can breathe again. Good luck, Susan!

He will keep playing forever. I still remember a rugby bumper sticker from our time: “Rugby players eat their dead!”

Mike Eden has been busy since retiring after 35 years of international banking with HSBC. That included 21 moves across seven countries.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and networking help. If you follow the He definitely will not miss the four-hour VMI Facebook page, you will see some daily commute to New York City. Son really interesting articles Tom has been Jake graduated magna cum laude from submitting regarding VMI history and Pennsylvania State University (underthe 100th anniversary of World War I. grad and master’s) in computer engiAll of this keeps Tom connected and enneering. He will start work for TripAdvisor in Boston in July. Step-son Zach ergized. Oh, he also acts as an Uber drivalso graduated with honors from Ursier for drugged-up old BRs coming down from post-surgery highs – right Doug?! nus College in Pennsylvania. He made Penny and Duke Addison hosted a All-Conference honors in basketball and mini reunion at their home in Jacksonwill be getting his Master of Business Administration degree in the fall. Mike ville the first weekend of April. Those in and Sandy just returned from vacationattendance included: Penny and Duke, Brad Walker, Jay and Christie Roach, ing in Costa Rica. Highly recommends and John and Melanie Friend. Unforthis retirement thingy!

Class of 1982: John Friend, Brad Walker, Duke Addison and The winner with the best facial hair at Jay Roach after a mini reunion and round of golf. tunately, Val had a conflict and could our reunion, Tom McCune, gave me a not be with them. The Fortneys and the checkup; no, wait – he checked in. He and John Daughertys were also missed by all.

Colonna ’79 were recently honored to be the There was a golf outing held Friday at the San physicians on the cover of the Hampton Roads Jose Country Club. Duke was the only one in Physician spring 2018 magazine. There were the foursome wearing the shirt from our 35th nice articles about each of them in the magaReunion. Johnny Funk (aka Billy Bob Thorton) is always gunning for best-dressed golfer. Honzine. (I am sure Tom is very deserving of the honor, but I think the hair played a part.) Tom orable mention: Brad was wearing a red golf reported that he was the centerfold for the isshirt, and Jay’s golf shorts were yellow (at the end of the day), so they all represented the Instisue. Sorry, ladies; it sold out as soon as it hit the newsstand! Ouch, that mental image is not gotute in flying colors. The mini reunion weekend included several memorable meals, a fun outing to leave my brain for a while.

Keep up the fantastic work Dr. Tom! ing at the comedy zone and a day on the beach.

Joey and Carol Keyes just moved to Rock(What, no beach body pics, Duke?! McCune needs some competition.) bridge County. They are renting a big house in Class of 1982: John Bieltz and Dewey MarOn a side note, Duke will be attending his 40th Buena Vista and hope to start building this sumtin attended the Masters Tournament. high school reunion this summer. His high school mer. Remember, they have had the septic system has held a 10th, 20th and 30th, and this summer in the ground for some time now. Just could not will be his first time back to First Colonial in Virget it ready for our reunion. They say the rental is huge, so everyone please come visit. I knew ginia Beach. On the flipside, he has made all seven Joey and Carol had planned a trip to Hawaii afof our VMI reunions and many mini reunions. He wonders how many of you guys have been fortuter the new year, so I inquired how the trip went.

Joey swears he did not anger the volcano gods. nate to attend all of those weekends?

It has been erupting since 1983.

Speaking of golfing, John Bieltz checked in Tom O’Sullivan has been giving back to with a brief update. After having such a great VMI a little bit by visiting periodically for varitime at our reunion and getting back in touch with lots of BRs, John decided to host a getous events. Our former TAC, Col. Bob James, together for Dewey Martin, his two great sons invites him to teach in his international studand son-in-law. They enjoyed the Masters Touries class every year. He also participated in the Business Leadership Innovation Summit sponnament, a few adult beverages and lots of VMI stories. Love the shorts, John! sored by the department of economics and busiSomehow, I got included in an email birthday ness, where he was a panelist on international bashing/wishing between BRs for Rus Stewbusiness. A bonus was that Bob Louthan and Doug Burdette were featured guests, and the art. Affectionately known as “Scooter?” I think Class of 1982: Tom McCune, M.D., and three had a great time together that weekend.

George Mayforth or Bob Louthan started it. In John Colonna ’79, M.D., on the cover of Not enough, there is still more: Tom also takes the mix, though, a name surfaced. Maj. Gen. the Hampton Roads Physician magazine. time to mentor several cadets with career advice Jon Mott, U.S. Air Forces Central Command.

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Class Notes

1983

Hugh Daughtry

Class of 1982: Joey and Carol Keyes while on vacation in Hawaii.

My apologies; I did not realize we still have more stars flying round in the service beside McDew. Can someone please enlighten this class agent?

Bill and Cynthia Jennings tied the knot in Lexington recently. Although there are lots of photos from the wedding on Facebook, I can’t use them for size and quality issues in the Review. My deadline is rapidly approaching, so I can only hope to have them for the next Review.

Many BRs were in attendance in Lexington, including the Louthans, the Keyes, the Crumplers and the Shifflettes.

All is well in this household. I’m still playing in the woods with scouting, BSA (Yes, that is the new name of the program!) I have been asked to step up and be the adviser for the Area 6 Venturing Officers Association. I will get to travel all over Kentucky and Tennessee seeing some awesome youth programs in action for the next few years. Susan; our daughter, Dana; and I will be staffing at Scouting World Jamboree in 2019. Just like we did last year for our national jamboree.

This is the first time it has been back in the U.S. since the early ’60s and is being jointly hosted by Canada and Mexico. Since I will return to be a mountain biking instructor, I need to go back and refresh my foreign language skills. How to say, “Have fun biking; don’t die!” in several languages. So any help from Jose Suarez, George Seiferth, and Dale Davis would be great!

Until next time. Try to keep it between the navigational buoys, Will Council

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Brother Rats, These notes cover the period of mid-February through mid-May 2018. As these notes go to press, it is New Market Day. Your intrepid class agent is at 34,000 feet on the way to Las Vegas, but my heart is back in Lexington as the Corps marches out for what is probably the most important parade each year. Graduation is a couple of days off, but by the time you read this, another Rat Line will be about to get started.

Also, as you read this, we will be less than two months from our 35th Reunion Nov. 2-3, 2018. If you have not registered, get on it, because shake-aleg will be sounding soon! It promises to be a great weekend, as VMI takes on Tusculum. After golf and shooting Friday, we will have a party at McKethan Park with entertainment from The Strain, featuring Sammy Shako. This is a band made up of some of our rats from ’86 you may have seen at some Alumni Association events. For the pregame tailgate, we will be in the lounge at Moody Hall, and then Saturday night will be a little more classy at the Center for Leadership and Ethics.

A big thank you to the following BRs who have helped put this together: Doug Wainwright, Bill Cornett, Owen Perry, Steve Amato, Jim Outland, Joe Leonard, Jamie MacDonald, Scott Belliveau, Dave Warriner, Jay Williams and Spence Westbrook. This group has been hard at it since last November to make sure our class has a great time at the 35th. I’ll be looking forward to seeing all of you!

Unfortunately, during this period, we lost another brother rat. Mike Laughon died April 25 from complications after an accident in his home in Bedford. It is a tragic loss of a man taken before his time. Mike is survived by his wife, Tance; son, Holmes ’17; and brother, Mark ’86. There were several memories shared following his passing on our Yahoo Group, but among the best were Skip Goodwillie: “Many, many funny stories start with, ‘Mike was in my room after taps ...’” and Charlie Luck: “He was always so outgoing and enthusiastic about other people and truly brought life to the room. God bless him.”

Speaking of our Yahoo Group, the word must be getting out on the 35th. April and May saw a spike in new members, as the requests poured in.

Coming out of the woodwork were Tom Winckler, John Gordon, Dave Hall, Breck Gorman, Gregg Brinegar and Brent Dunahoe. A definite Marine Corps flavor. Welcome to the 21st century, gentlemen! I also took the plunge and started a class group on Facebook. It’s probably something that should have been done by now, but with the reunion coming on quick, I want to ensure we leverage all communication opportunities. I tried to invite all of you that were friends with me already, but if you are not or I missed you, search for VMI Class of 1983 or get an existing member to add you.

Dave Hall checked in to ask to be added to the Yahoo Group and let me know he was back in Lexington. Dave retired from the Marines as a colonel and is now the director of international programs at VMI. Our class is well represented on post now with Dave, Jay Williams, Scott Belliveau and Doug Wainwright.

The chatter increases as we get closer to reunion.

Tom Jewett had a question about the weekend but included a great update. He’s been a captain for Delta for 27 years and remarried in 2010. He is now the proud papa of two girls, ages 3 and almost 1. They will be at the reunion, so I think Tom will be instantly recognizable – side-by-side stroller and diaper bag. His two sons are aged 28 and 26 and both work in the pharmaceutical industry.

Not to be outdone, our brother rat who normally wins the award for traveling the furthest for reunion, Andy Jones, reported he has a 4-yearold son, Daniel Mathew Jones, named after Dan Martin and Matt Waring. We’ll be looking forward to seeing them make the trip to Lexington from Thailand.

As part of our planning for the reunion, Jim Outland has been assisting as class agent emeritus. He basically knows where all the bodies are buried and operates as our informal morale officer.

Some of you may have gotten a short note from Jim ensuring you are on notice for November. His note to Brent Dunahoe got a good update from El Cid land. Many of you will remember that Brent met his bride, Lisa, during the infamous Citadel weekend of 1982. For his last tour in the Marines, he returned to the scene of the crime and was the professor of naval science. I happen to know a couple of young men from Charlotte who were cadets during the time Brent was there, and as you

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes with the injury to Sandy Padrick and the loss of would suspect, he was legend. Brent had moved Mike Laughon. Prayers for healing and peace into the defense industry as a consultant for SAIC, would be greatly appreciated. Take care, and I but his update reported he was tiring of that and look forward to seeing you in November. would move over to work for Lisa in her real esThat is all. tate agency. If you are like me, the image of Brent saying he would be working for his wife brought a chuckle, but as Brent said, “I have always worked for her. Plus, the fringe benefits package is better Andy Protogyrou with her than at SAIC.” Jim reports that Brent’s status for the 35th is, “Dooty!”

As reported in the last updates, Duane Padrick’s Class of 1983: Steve and Mary Amato just outside Caminha, Portugal, as they wife, Sandy, suffered a serious brain injury as the prepared to enter Spain in May 2018. result of a horse riding accident in January. Duane New Market Day and Lexington and VMI reported she has no left side function, but she conhave never been more beautiful. Storms seem to tinues in rehab in Norfolk and is slowly healing. arrive each evening, and there was fear of one In the midst of this, Duane and Sandy’s daughstriking during the New Market parade. An unter, Madison, gave birth to their first grandchild, a baby girl named Henley, April 6. Duane said he named Smith Hall type let me know that parade is working on the provisional appointment for the was happening regardless of weather, and as long Class of 2040. Please keep Duane and Sandy in as there was no lightning, the Corps was ready to your prayers. parade in gray blouse. Now we all know how each Normally, when an email from Cal Murray of us had that character building molded for us. pops in my inbox, I am expecting an operations orThe chain does not break. I figured, the battle was fought in the rain, why not? der or a VMI sports update. This message, though, My son, Tony ’16, just finished his first year was different, as Cal was rightfully proud of his of law school at West Virginia University. He is completion of the Richmond Monument 10K. about to head to Dare County, North Carolina, Cal and Jeannie, “my Ring Figure date,” competwhere he and part of his Virginia National Guard ed in true VMI fashion, definitely flying the colors unit will learn to speak to naval flight officers in with a cool looking Keydet football T-shirt. Cal F-18s and call for fire. He said the Army gives new reported that Jeannie finished in 82 minutes and lieutenants GPS so they know their own locations he in 84 for an outstanding average of 83 minutes!

Class of 1983: Calvin and Jeannie Murray when asking for bombs to drop. Again, nothing By the way, Cal says he let her win so they would after crossing the finish line at an averreally changes. Demetra ’19 is editor of the Bomb have the great combined average. Yeah, right. Well age time of 83 minutes in the Richmond, as a 2nd Class cadet and about to get her own rats. done! As you would expect from Cal, he is lookVirginia, Ukrop’s Monument Avenue 10K April 13, 2018.

I saw Jim Kenkel on post, as he was there to see ing forward to celebrating his 35th wedding annihis son graduate. Tony and he talked artillery, as versary in July, “but more importantly the 35th in Jim’s son will soon be at Fort Sill.

November!”

I received a strange call from a RichAnd just as the final notes of assembly drift across the bricks, Steve and Mary mond area alumnus. He told me one of Amato checked in with another world his crews had a vehicle breakdown on odyssey update. He and Mary were in the interstate around Richmond. While Nigran, Spain, on Day Six of a 12-day pilwaiting for a wrecker just off the shoulder of the road, his foreman saw a large grimage to Santiago de Compostela. They gold rock in the grass. He walked over were hiking 160 miles on the Camino Portuguese from Porto, Portugal, to Santiago, and picked up a VMI class ring. He knew Spain. Their trek will end at the Santiago the company’s owner was a VMI graduate and took it to him. The name on the Cathedral which contains the remains of inside of the ring was Bob Epperson. I Saint James. Steve said, “As we complete our spiritual journey, all of our brother rats have tried to reach out to him to no avail. I are in our prayers, with special intentions Class of 1983: Teddy Gottwald, Tony “Snake” Arnold, Mike hear he may be somewhere in deep cover.

Laughon and Bubba Hazelgrove at the wedding of Ha- Should anyone know how to reach him, once we reach the crypt of Saint James.” zelgrove’s daughter, Annie, at Upper Shirley Vineyards in That is probably a pretty good note to Charles City, Virginia, Sept. 30, 2017. please do so or contact me. Also speaking end on. It has been a tough 2018 so far of deep cover brother rats, please contact

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Class Notes me with ways to reach John Brown.

I heard from Hal Hamner that he had the pleasure to escort his father, H.D. Hamner Jr. ’48B, to his 70th Reunion. Hal said, “Words do not describe what a gift it is to be able to disconnect from the working world for a day or two and be afforded a glimpse into the past and a view of the future simultaneously. A wonderful institution, good stories, fine men and the greatest generation.” We are just about halfway to our 70th!

Greg Cavallaro attended the May 7:15 a.m.

BRC gathering of brother rats organized by Steve Reardon at the Bob Evans Restaurant in the west end of Richmond. In attendance were Hank Selman, Mike Melton, Gene Sampey, Mike Locher, Hal Hamner, Bill Janis, Steve Barsamian and Frank Kollmansperger. I spoke to the Cav recently, and he has assumed his new role at VMI as senior major gift officer. Just in case anyone asks, none of his title will require us to call him sir or salute him. In this manner, he works for all VMI agencies. No one over the last 30 years has the institutional memory of Greg, and we are blessed to have him in such an important position.

Also, I just missed seeing Paul Iaderosa in town to see his scholarship recipient, Brice Tucker ’18, graduate. Brice is about to be a freshly-minted Air Force second lieutenant and a great young man.

Well done, Paul. Paul is married with two grown children and living in Norwalk, Connecticut.

He is managing partner with LogicSource, Inc. He invites all of us passing through the area to stay with them. Greg also saw Tom Carboni in

Class of 1984: Paul and Andrea Iaderosa with their scholarship recipient, Brice Tucker ’18.

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the Philadelphia area and caught up with him at lunch. I have received word that Bill and Rosanne Janis are planning a move to Florida and beginning a new chapter in their lives. He, too, invites all to stay with them. Thanks, Bill!

My brother rats, take care. I miss and love you all.

Andy

1985

Matt Daniel

Brothers, By the time you get this, many of us will be packing up our hardy or clever boatfloaties to make the trip from Bean’s Bottom down to Jordan’s Point along the Maury River. In case you are not familiar, here is what the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries (Conserve. Connect. Protect.) has to say on their website about this stretch of water and the activities it attracts: (https://www.dgif.virginia. gov/waterbody/maury-river/).

“Bean’s Bottom (Rt. 631) to Jordan’s Point Park (Rt. 11) Distance: 2-and-a-half miles. Put in on river left above the Rt. 631 (Furrs Mill Road) bridge. This is a short float, but annually during the first weekend in August, it is worth it for people-watchers, journalists, artists, photographers or other curiosity seekers, or people just looking for a change of scenery to catch mankind at its most bizarre during summer months. Take out of the river right at Jordan’s Point Park, just upstream of the athletic field and 700 feet upstream of a 10-foot dam. Anglers, boaters and other river users should take caution and not approach the dam or any of the wildlife, to include the liberally aged and overweight visiting former inmates from the state-run prison that overlooks and casts a chilling shadow on this portion of the Maury. Orange buoys across the river and signs are placed just upstream of the dam to warn people to stay away and not feed or otherwise engage the stuffed and bloated fauna, especially during the early days of the month of August, annually. Please pay particular attention to animals hailing from Ohio, North Carolina and Massachusetts.” No kidding, that’s what it says. Really, I mean it.

Anecdotally, this may be the last year that the Maury will support such activities, as the Lexington City Council has voted to remove the dam, which will lower the level of the water. Maybe, just maybe, as the Class of ’85 continues to frequent this portion of the river, we will displace enough water to temporarily render it useful for our floating mischief and high-spirited shenanigans. More Twinkies and pork rinds, boys!

For more information on the Maury River Dam, Google: Maury River Dam Removal.

For more information on the annual Charlie Company Golf Safari activities (i.e., the Maury boat-float), contact Brother Rat Jake Spivey.

Random name drop: Joe Rose, Paul “Slinky”

Class of 1985: Maj. Gen. Jim Begley with Col. Jim Ring ’88 at Syracuse University in April 2018.

Class of 1985: Class Agent Matt Daniel said of this drawing, “Some things never change, hopefully.”

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Marsenison, Jay Lucas, Tim Bailey.

P.W. Sarver is overseeing the Navy’s counter-narcotics program. Here he works with the Combatant Commands and federal agencies. By the time you read this, he will have been on the job for about a year, but it took this long for Navy human resources and your class agent to catch up.

I saw Sir Terence Ormsby at a high school lacrosse game in early May 2018, where his son was playing goalie. We shared many a good laugh at his VMI roommates’ expense (you know who Class of 1985: Mike Wooten with the Washington you are). At this game, Coach Clarkson skins during the 1987 NFL season.

Meredith ’81 was at the helm of the team that Terry’s son plays for – West Springfield High School in Fairfax County, Virginia – and doing a great job with it. Ormsby and I caught up with him postgame and had a nice VMI discussion. We even head-faked an Old Yell. Hopefully, Terry will make the safari this summer, but no promises. Terry is still working as a GSXV for the feds in foreign military sales of stuff that we did not talk too much about.

Two biggies for Big Mike Wooten: First, in April, Mike was inducted into the SmithfieldSelma High School Alumni Hall of Fame for his athletic accomplishments and civic work.

His BRs’ chests swell with pride. Then, as an even bigger story, Mike was awarded a Washington Redskins’ 1987 Super Bowl ring. This award has been a long time in the making, and finally Mike, along with his replacement player-teammates, was recognized for the significant part played in keeping the team alive Class of 1985: Mark “Action” Jackson and going while many of his teammates held and Cadet Johnny Daniel ’20 after a VMI out in the 1987 NFL strike. Buttons are poplacrosse game at Jacksonville University ping off his brother rats’ shirts at this. We are in April 2018. so proud of Big Mike Wooten.

Mark “Action” Jackson is a true friend and could, Action Jackson. What a guy.

RND: Jeff Young, Jud “Not our Class” brother, and yes, brother rat. In April, our youngest (sophomore lacrosse player at VMI, Springer, Cary Westin, Jeff Norris.

In April, I attended one morning of the huJohn J. Daniel ’20) visited Jacksonville Univermongo Sea-Air-Space Trinket and Tchotchke sity but was unable to play due to a concussion the previous game. My better half and I Show at the National Harbor. There, in line, I ran into Steve “Way More Strack Than His did not travel to the game, but Action came to the game and hung out with the team even Roommates Ever Were or Wanted To Be” Medeiros. Steve looks great and is killing it in a though Johnny did not play. He even called and senior vice president role at Logis-Tech, Inc. in gave me a detailed postgame debrief on the performance of the Keydets and their loss to the JU Manassas.

Were any of you aware that the word “strack” Dolphins. He told me, “You guys could use a guy like Chuck McCarthy on your team.” Indeed we is no longer a thing at VMI?

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I recently spied a Dave Brennan Facebook post where he and Ellen (his lovely bride) were on a geocaching hunt where they located the oldest cache in the state of Kentucky. As we all recognize, there is nothing more dangerous than a lieutenant with a map and a compass, Dave. Ellen must have provided the navigation guidance.

Maj. Gen. Jim Begley sent a photo with himself and Col. Jim Ring ’88 while they were attending the Maxwell School for the National Security ProRed- gram at Syracuse University in April 2018. Jim said, “Yeah, all this national security stuff is cool and all, but I cannot wait to float down the Maury with my brothers! See you at the safari!”

Information: The Ring Figure dyke concept no longer exists.

John “J.A.” Adams comes back stateside with some frequency. In these visits, he comes back to Lexington, hangs out with his pals Lurch and Helmet Head, and drinks beer at the local establishments. In May, he returned home, contacted the locals and went out on a beer quaffing expedition with new-locals Dave “Hello Woodrow” Tingley and Mags “Mags” McGuire (and their better halves). I was happy to receive a notice that he would be in town, but alas, I was not on location. I am sure they did us proud.

RND: Woo Kirtley, Chuck Baker, Tommy “T.C.” Pully, Gary “Clark Kent” Klein.

To close, head nods to Meade “The” King, Joe “Beef ” Irby, J.J. “Shakedown” Wranek and Todd “Professor” Smith who are doing us proud, all working at/for/around VMI. If any of you are like me, you hear from J.J. quite regularly with the drumbeat of informational mailings sharing how well “Mother I” is doing and how much better she might be feeling if I were to crack open my change purse a little. I poke a little fun here, but in reality, he is providing a great service, as are BRs Irby and King.

Todd Smith is providing demystifying engineering to electrical engineering majors in the Corps. The Class of ’85 is making a difference.

So, with that said, I will leave you and ask that you give back to the prison on the hill when you can, if you can afford it.

RVM, amigos.

Matt D.

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Class Notes

1986

Clint Hubbard

Greetings, Brother Rats and Hangers-on!

It is mid-May and time for another volume of class notes that may or may not be filled with “quibbling, half-truths and evasive answers.” Let me wish you a happy New Market Day and hope you drank a toast to the bravery and devotion to duty that is our legacy from the New Market cadets. Here in central Virginia, winter officially ended about two weeks ago, and we jumped right into summer and 90-degree days. What the hay?

We should commence this edition with condolences to our BR Mark Laughon and the Class of 1983 in the tragic loss of Mike Laughon ’83, who died suddenly in April. Mike’s obituary is listed in the Taps section of this Alumni Review. Mike is remembered by the Class of 1986 for being a great rat daddy and a fun-loving guy. I know he was always nice to me. Mike left us too soon and will be missed; condolences to all his loved ones.

One of our favorite sons of Africa, Michael Laban, checked in with a thorough and checkered report. I will try to paraphrase his narrative, as he is living an event-filled life of adventure. Michael hails from Zimbabwe or, as it used to be called, Rhodesia. Michael commenced with a great quote: “Well, I have been to jail again.” Actually, BR Laban did not spend a night inside, just “formalities” to get to court via the cell system.

Our boy was accused of “malicious damage to property” and “assault.” He took down posters of a beauty pageant, which were apparently the property of the opposition political party. Hard to believe, but words were exchanged and push went to shove and some fisticuffs broke out. After six days of going to court, (his accuser failed to show up) the magistrate finally told BR Laban to “move on.” More on his politics in a bit.

Michael did three Rifa trips in 2017 protecting school kids from wildlife 3 kilometers upstream of Chirundu on the Zambezi. He characterized it as a great, expense-covered holiday walking in the bush. The most excitement was when he almost walked into a hyena (in camp) one night, and they had three elephants chase them away from the breeding herd while looking for an impala. Sounds

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remarkably like a mixer at Southern Seminary. It’s just a guess, but Dave Grimm might have something to say about that.

Next on the docket was the launch of BR Laban’s new career as a professional movie star. The film is called “The Telling Room,” produced by MudBug Films and should come out the end of 2018. They approached Michael on location at the Strathaven Shopping Centre where he is the administrator. He wanted to meet some of the actresses, so he volunteered as an extra. Then, the pharmacist pulled out and they were desperate, so BR Laban got his chance. He had two lines with three sentences while looking at a syringe of blue liquid. He says they did pay him but no update on the mingling with the starlets.

He isn’t done yet. Michael took a couple of bike trips on his motorcycle. His description of the best one: “The bigger bike trip this year was out Nayampanda and into Mozambique to Tete, up the north bank of the Zambezi and into Zambia, across west to Lusaka and back home through Chirundu. Maybe 3,000 kilometers over four days. Cooked the head gasket on the way home so limped in and still have cooling problems. But it was a great trip, as I was out of the city.”

BR Laban’s next great adventure was when the Mountain Club of Zimbabwe also hosted the Mountain Club of South Africa up to the Chimanimani Mountains, Eastern Districts. There are less than 100 MCZ members (Michael was one of three who did the hosting) and probably more than 2,000 MCSA members (about 30 came up).

He noted, “The brachystegia boehmii were still in good color, everyone was in awe, and we all had a great time.”

BR Laban closed the update with a recount of the coup in November where Robert Mugabe was deposed. Bob got a nice retirement plan in that he gets to keep his property (houses and farms), he will get $10 million per year and paid medical trips to Singapore as needed, and the presidential armored Mercedes 600. In addition, Mugabe will stay in Zimbabwe and not be exiled or extradited.

To say that Michael is fired up about it is an understatement. BR Laban notes that Harare (where he lives) “has fallen apart, with about 96 percent of the population unemployed, no water, no roads, no rubbish collection and millions of people are ‘missing.’”

So, he plans to run for city council again this year if and when they announce elections.

If he opened with a great quote about being

thrown in jail, he ended with a better one: “I would not live anywhere else. It could be all VMI’s fault. Taught me to never give up.” Reread that last sentence again and think of how well our BR Laban is wearing the ring. Godspeed, brother rat; Never say die!

After the international report, let’s check in with what’s been happening stateside.

Mid-February was the occasion of the annual VMI quail hunt hosted by Darrel Rickmond ’73 and John Karafa ’84. These gents throw on a topshelf hunt at Darrell’s property in Surry County, Virginia. There are guys there from many different classes – mostly all VMI guys or relatives.

John Karafa’s wife is a world-class caterer, and the chow is outstanding. This year, the attendees from our era included your dedicated class agent, Wayne Fuller, Frank Kollmansperger ’84, Jamie Shoemaker ’84 and Tab Warlitner ’85. Make that Tab “Birddog” Warlitner ’85, as he scored an unassisted quadfecta when he pointed a bird, flushed it, shot it and then retrieved it. We tried to give him a dog biscuit and scratch him behind his ears, but he was having none of it. The annual hunt surely is a good time with plenty of birds to hunt, great fellowship and chow, and a sporting clays field to shoot until your shoulder is sore.

BR Fuller and I have been mainstays for the past four or five years; you know, they feed us, so now they’re stuck with us.

Speaking of Wayne Fuller, here’s some VMI trivia. Did you know the VMI Bomb is online?

You can do a web search, and it will take you to the site where you can peruse digital copies of the Bomb from every year up until 2010. Where BR Fuller comes in is his military record at VMI. I know, you’re thinking, “What military record?”

After his sabbatical our 3rd Class year, Wayne remained at VMI during the 1986-87 school year and established a record that hasn’t been touched before or since. Go do a web search, find the 1987 Bomb and go to page 132. Get a shot of liquor before you do it. We’ll come back to this in a minute.

There is big news coming from our house band, The Strain featuring Sammy Shako. They’re playing a few gigs and have inked a deal to play in the fall at the 35th Reunion of the Class of 1983.

Sammy and the boys guarantee that will be a great show.

In late April, Sammy and the boys played a gig at a brewery in Waynesboro, Virginia. After the three-hour gig, they repaired to the Miller estate northeast of town and put on an afternoon and

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes able to step over it. Brother Rat Taggart evening show complete with a cookout. reported that Cole will work at VMI in an All of the regular band members were emergency preparedness capacity before there (Paul Boos, Ralph Frye, Dave he reports to the Coast Guard within the Grimm, Tony Hirtz, Marty Mason, Rob next year. I would imagine the emergency Mason, Dave Miller and one of BR Millpreparedness at VMI would include being er’s local homeboys who joined in with his on the lookout for a raid from the nearby Fender Telecaster) along with their groupgirls’ schools. Tough duty. Not sure if joinie wives wearing custom t-shirts. Dave “Papa G” Grimm handled grilling duties ing the Coast Guard is good news or not; and whipped up some steaks, wings and after all, Larry Watson did a hitch in the grilled yard-bird; it was a feast, I tell you.

Coast Guard and look how he turned out!

I had a mark on the back of my neck for Also graduating from the Institute but three days where the feedbag was strapped without as much detail are Steve Hall’s on. Hopefully, BR Miller made some coin son, Alex Hall ’18, and Dave Tyler’s son, Class of 1986: Class Agent Clint Hubbard said of this photo, David Tyler ’18. Nevertheless, it would recycling the aluminum left behind by this “An official photo of The Strain featuring Sammy Shako. thirsty bunch of cutthroats who squatted Group members include Rob Mason, Ralph Frye, Tony Hirtz, appear that we now have three more eron his property.

Dave Miller, Paul Boos, Dave Grimm, Marty Mason and rand boys with alumni privileges, and the Steve Grudi. The band motto, as evidenced by their stance first alumni privilege is to be sure their In addition to the chow, there were sevin this picture, is: ‘We are the Strain featuring Sammy Shako. dad’s BRs have a cold beer or cocktail eral highlights: (1) Marty Mason playing You got a problem with that? Are you saying you want a when on post. Well done to these young the drums with a cigar in his mouth and piece of us?’” men and their parents! looking like Carmine Galante before he Christopher Newport University graduates got whacked; (2) when they got back to the Miller include John and Karen Hart’s daughter, Kathestate, Sammy and the boys welcomed in a guest guitarist in the form of my oldest son, Bobby, who ryn Hart, as well as Paul and Jen Burch’s son, is an aspiring guitar player, and he had the time of Will Burch. Brother Rat Hart was quick to note his life picking and singing; and (3) Frank Clark that CNU has approximately 60 percent or more made the trip up from North Carolina. You may women than men and was lamenting his college recall that BR Clark was with us for our rat year choice did not include those same statistics. Actuthen did a hitch in the Marines and got busy livally, it proves that Paul Burch was as sharp as we all knew he was, and the apple didn’t fall far from ing life. He rejoined us at the 30th Reunion and the tree. No word on the future plans of these two has been back to several events since then. He is a young people, but congrats to them and their pargreat guy, and we are glad to have him back with us and engaged with the class. The other attendees ents on a great achievement.

Class of 1986: Clint Hubbard and Dave (in addition to the band and BR Clark) included From far beyond the hills of Blacksburg in a field Grimm celebrated Tim Perez’s birthday at the Dave Miller estate in Waynesyours truly, Bob Cabell, Todd McCullough and of rye, Ms. Liza Spivey (daughter of Tim and Beth boro, Virginia. Tim, Dave and Clint all Joe Schinstock. The Miller estate is a beautiful setSpivey) graduated summa cum laude from Hokie, have birthdays within the same week.

Hokie, Hokie High, otherwise known as Virginia ting, and it was great fellowship. We really can’t Tim was not present.

Polytechnic Institute and State University. Well say enough to thank Dave and particularly Shelly done to Ms. Spivey! I don’t know about the rest of for opening their doors for such a crowd of hoodyou, but summa cum laude is not a phrase I think lums. To bring out an old line we’ve used before, of when I hear the name of our BR Spivey. Liza “If Bob Cabell says he’s gotta yak, it don’t mean obviously got her mother’s brains; we can only he has a long-haired buffalo in his backyard.” Achope she likewise got her father’s good looks. tually, I’m not sure Bobby C. found his yak; he Speaking of Jim Taggart, he tells me that the red was gimping along on some kind of plastic boot. tape of state level bureaucracy has a chokehold on Quibble, quibble, quibble, malingering, malingerthe liquor-making business and that our beloved ing, gim-rider, etc.

Woods Mill Distillery may be shutting the doors This time of year brings news of graduation. I on the legal, bonded whiskey business. He is planam sure this is an incomplete list, but the ’86 progeny who are graduates and the institution from ning to liquidate his inventory and sell off the maClass of 1986: Frank Clark and Clint Hubwhich they graduated include: Jim and Paula chinery. I’m sure he isn’t planning to keep even a bard joined the Sammy Shako spring Taggart’s son, Cole Taggart ’18, who built on the small boiler and condenser for running off some gig in Waynesboro, Virginia, at the Taggart family legacy at VMI. Actually, that legahomemade (ahem) “cough medicine” from timeMiller estate. to-time (wink). I offered the services of his BRs cy and its proverbial bar are pretty low; Cole was

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Class Notes to help liquidate the inventory, but he was afraid some of you geezers might pull a muscle trying to get there too fast. BR Taggart has plans to re-enter the world of engineering full time in order to make ends meet. I’m sure his ancestors are all saying, “I told you so; trying to reason with those revenuers from the state is nigh-on impossible.” So head to the nearest Virginia ABC store and grab the legally bonded Woods Mill stuff while you still can; I’m sure none of the loyal readership of this quarterly would dream of ever buying or partaking of illegal homemade “likker” that was crafted by the light of the moon somewhere down in a Nelson County hollow. At least I know Tim Keilty would never do that. Although he might enjoy some moonshine to ward off the chill when he goes Christmas caroling with Monahan, Frazier, Weddle, Malavet, Rivenbark and Tadpole.

Hopefully, if you have a bit of Woods Mill Distillery’s finest sippin’ whiskey, you got some before you looked up page 132 of the 1987 Bomb.

There he is, our boy, one, each, Fuller, G.W., as a regimental S-1 lieutenant. You can’t make this up. Wayne Fuller was on the regimental staff! In the whole history of the Institute, I cannot imagine there was another instance of a three-and-a-half year private with well over, what would you say, 375-plus cumulative demerits, being named as a regimental staffer. The only plausible explanation is that there was a clerical error. They should put that boy’s coatee in the VMI Museum or name an arch after him. Hey, we already have Gitchell arch named in honor of our beloved Ranger Carl Gitchell. Gitchell arch is the one that leads directly to either Mary Baldwin or Hollins. Where is Gitchell arch, you ask? It is the window of any room on the first stoop. As Dave Grimm might say, “I’m just sayin’...”

Actually, BR Fuller’s engineering career is going international. He has a few projects simmering on the stove – a large airport in Thailand and a munitions factory in the Ukraine. The geopolitics of it all is fascinating, especially the munitions factory that will replace the one that the Russians dismantled and took from Ukraine a few years ago.

Apparently, Vladimir Putin doesn’t cotton to having his opposition well-armed. So, the Ukrainians are building a replacement to churn out significant ammo. Wayne will be on the ground over there in the coming months to try and nail down the job and budget. A redneck from Crewe, Virginia, building a munitions plant to help challenge the authority of the KGB-esque

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leadership of Russia; yeah, I can see that. Nothing to see here, boys; move it right along. Stay safe, BR Fuller, and arrange your travel schedule to fit into the fall and winter hunting seasons.

Well, there I was, walking into the Virginia Beach City Government Complex on a sales call.

I look in the distance and see a somewhat familiar face walking toward me. As we passed one another, we gave a glimmer of recognition and stopped to confirm. It was my fellow class agent, Andy Protogyrou ’84. In addition to the highly-regarded position of class agent, Andy is an attorney in Norfolk, Virginia, and was there to see a client in the Virginia Beach lock-up. On the other hand, I was on a very tame routine business call. We had a quick visit on the sidewalk; it was good to see him.

I am continually amazed at how small VMI is and yet how common it is to see one of our brethren in all places.

Social media sometimes takes a hit for how it dominates society these days. There are some good things that come out of it, though. For example, Facebook sometimes shows some historical photos. Someone posted a picture of the Company C rats from 1982-83, and lo and behold, like one of those photos that seems to capture an angel or some other unexplained orb on film, this photo likewise had an apparition that made you marvel at what you were seeing and think of a largerthan-life being. It was a picture with Ben Walker all shined up and in ranks. That, ladies and gentlemen, is not something that occurred often and for it to be captured on film is nearly priceless.

Actually, I got a request to ease up on Walker, B.D. After the last issue and a crack about taking up a collection to purchase a seeing-eye dog for Benny Walker to help him find his way back to VMI to visit his BRs, I got a call from the big dog himself. BR Walker said to name the time and place and he’ll show up. Now all we need is for Jim Jenkins and Cliff Tinsley to make a plan then Ben and I can join them and sponge off BR Jenkins’ tab. I’m sure Jim would be delighted to include Walker, B.D., and Hubbard, R.C., in any BR-oriented entertainment/bar tab. Maybe we can even do it in conjunction with a Sammy Shako gig? We should be able to rely on the attendance of the VMI chief of staff, Col. James P. Inman, too. And maybe Frank Clark will come back that weekend? Or even Frank Trice will get the seeingeye dog we had slated for Ben Walker? I’m telling you; no one is safe here. I would also include Tom deVenoge, but that would be asking way too much

of a seeing-eye dog, and besides, the idea of seeing Thomas P. Houdini is pretty far-fetched. He’s perfected that escape artist/disappearing act.

The last note from Benny-Benny Walker is that his youngest son, Aramis, is quite the high school baseball stud, hitting over .500 at one point in the season playing for the Denbigh High School team near Newport News, Virginia, and near Williamsburg, Virginia; the hometown of BR Walker and also of Papa G – Dave Grimm. Good to know a Walker that finally has some athletic ability, eh?

As Papa G. himself might add, “I’m just sayin’.”

Speaking of new grandchildren, Todd and Donna McCullough welcomed a new granddaughter this quarter. Sawyer Lyn McCullough was born April 19. I don’t have to tell you boys how old you are getting when we are celebrating the births of grandchildren.

The last note will be to note at least one new ’86 progeny in barracks this fall. Sam Moody, son of Jon and Brynn Moody, will matriculate in August. Best of luck to Sam – and to his parents! If there are others out there, let us know so we might spread our wings of watch care around them as they start pressing up the hill of science.

OK, that’s a wrap for this quarter. Send me some news and reach out to a BR or two. If you are planning a tailgate this fall, be sure to include your class agent! We need to get George Sheild and Dave Grimm together on a tailgate, as those boys know how to do it. (Hey, Sheild, what is the 13th word of the Parapet?) Take care, brother rats.

1987

Curt Schoonmaker

Apparently, if you don’t own an RV, you’re not living. By now, Kevin Price must have his, and Craig Covert routinely posts his “keepin’ up with the Barker” photos as he meanders up and down the East Coast with his lovely bride and mini me. Why are you people not working? Having previously offered photo evidence of retirement, Kevin Barker has rejected a life of TV reruns from his easy chair in a drawn-shade living room and has instead mounted it behind a very large steering wheel and red squeeze bulb horn. He is a reliable notes contributor, having all that time and stuff on his hands. He typed, “Pretty much

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the same old for me. Leaving Wellton, Arizona, tomorrow. This year’s travels will include Phoenix, Albuquerque, Colorado Springs, Wyoming, Saskatchewan, northern Utah, Seattle, Grand Canyon and Sedona as a full time RV’r.” Kevin goes through RVs like they’re giving them away.

Congratulations to all of the BRs whose cosigned student loans are no longer increasing. I know I’ll miss a few here, but Facebook reveals Hiram Morales, Terry Sutherland, Paul Munson and Rock Hudson with young’uns departing academia for the real world. Rock wrote, “Our daughter, Vicky, graduated from the East Carolina University Honors College magna cum laude with both chemistry and biology degrees. She’ll be applying to the North Carolina State University veterinary school.”

Reid Garst is buying from now on, having recently become ridiculously rich. He wrote, “On April 2, I sold my business to Motion Industries after a 22-year run. My wife, Lisa, has been at my side at the company for most of that time.

We decided we had done all we wanted to do with the business and were ready for a change.

I have a two-year employment agreement to get us through the transition, and we’ll see what happens after that. I think I got jealous seeing all my BRs retiring. Today, I am heading up to the ‘I’ to watch the New Market parade. It’s my first official day off while somebody else still pays me money. I think I like the idea.” Reid will also be buying an RV, a boat and an island, where he has invited all of us to stay indefinitely. He hasn’t said where yet.

There’s nothing but a party in Florida, according to Owen Curley. I really appreciate his updates since they are half of our notes, but I’m beginning to notice they generally contain the same people doing the same thing in the same places.

Here’s this issue’s drunk-a-log: “A brief update on life in south Georgia (aka, north Florida).

James ‘Lopper Head’ Bright was lured out of the wilds of Texas with promises of Florida fishing. Joining forces was Kenny ‘Watchadrinking’ Marsh; Eric ‘Yes, I am a male nurse’ Davis; and me. We then converged on Andy Zolper’s house in St. Petersburg, Florida, where Andy’s lovely wife, Linda, wisely fled for a get together with her own college friends.

“Once on location, we promptly drank too much and complained that we don’t want to wake up too early (getting old has its privileges). We did go fishing with some excellent local guides and

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commenced to contribute to the depletion of fish in and around Tampa Bay. Really, we caught so many fish that the water level dropped. Really.

The only downside of the entire fishing expedition was that Andy and I were on the boat that lacked beer. Some of our BRs choose wisely.

“The next morning, our hardy band made breakfast that featured James’ bloody marys (utterly fantastic) and eggs Benedict. Andy and I made our own hollandaise sauce and now are discussing starting a food truck that serves only eggs Benedict and hollandaise sauce. And bloodys. We then attended the St. Petersburg Grande Prix (pronounced ... never mind). Thanks to Andy’s company, we were bestowed with free tickets (nothing is really free) and enjoyed grandstand seating. Unfortunately, we were unable to gain entry into any VIP tent, and Kenny was repeatedly denied entry into pit row. I was not allowed to drive, and that is what the nice policeman told me.

“John Boughton (that is ‘Father John Anthony’ to you heathens) stopped by our slice of paradise in search of a new location for a friary. Apparently, warm weather, beach living and palm trees (not to mention Adrian Garcia) was not enough of an appeal, and his group is looking out west to California to start a new one. No, I did not say, ‘California is the place you ought to be...’ but was so tempted. Adrian ‘Mea Culpa’ Garcia joined us for dinner, where in addition to absolution, he got a couple of cold beers to share with the padre.

“Adrian Garcia has been studying Spanish and was able to parley with the padre in Spanish. While I don’t hablo like I did when I was a cadet, I was able to sufficiently recall vocabulary from Mrs. Sandy’s class to recognize the words ‘el presidente’ and ‘el jefe.’ Thus, I knew that they were talking about me.

“Speaking of John, I did make mention of my hopes for his eventual papacy. He assured me that this was not in the works – yet. I told him that he would have my vote, because I heard that the swimming pool at the pope’s summer palace is really, really, really sweet! Father John reminded me that I did not get to vote – yet.

“If you are in Jacksonville, please look me up – or Adrian – but definitely me, because Adrian will hold out on me. Call me first. I will call Adrian.”

By this writing, all deceased BRs should be on the bricks with our class. I am humbled to be among you. Love you one and all.

In the bonds, my brothers, Schoon

1988

Ed Wetherell

I would like to start by thanking our class agent Sam Tate and his wife, Amy, for their leadership and great work on our behalf over the last five years. Not only did they plan and execute a fantastic reunion weekend, but they have also dramatically increased class engagement over the last few years. Our 30th Reunion weekend was our bestattended gathering to date, with 124 brother rats returning to Lexington for at least part of festivities and more than 200 total participants including spouses, friends and family.

Brother rats literally came from all four corners of the U.S. and across the pond: Lance and April Gilman from Maine; Ed Gillespie from Washington; Chris Starling and Ron and Jane Maass from California; Scott Hurst and Gregg and Laurie Thomas from Florida; and from Texas, Rusty and Luckie Sloane and Tom O’Buckley. Traveling all the way from England was BR Mike Schenstrom.

I would also like to thank the members of the Reunion Committee who helped make the weekend a success: Sam Tate, John Keppeler, Walt Coleman, Drew McKone, Bob Clark, Mike Wood, John (A.J.) Williams, Tom Ustach, Dan Shrimpton, Rusty Sloane and Adam Volant.

Each of them contributed greatly to the effort, from contacting BRs and encouraging them to attend; ordering the shirts, hats and coffee mugs; to scheduling the venues for golf, dinner and the reception. It was truly a team effort.

There have been other gatherings of BRs. Rich and Kristin Stone traveled to Thailand and were able to catch up with Mike McGraw and his family, who are currently stationed there.

John Keppeler continues to organize a regular lunch gathering in the Quantico/Woodbridge area, where we have between 10 and 20 BRs regularly in attendance. Regulars include: Scott Stachelek; Lou Sigmon; Wayne Sinclair; Lou Florio; Mike Bryant; Mike Owen; Sam Tate; Andy Tate ’92; Derek McFarland; J.J. Wanat; and Hugh Brien, who has generously picked up the tab for lunch on more than one occasion. Thanks, Hugh!

Many others have been able to join us occasionally after traveling some distance to get there:

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Class of 1988: Front row: Jimmie Weatherford, John Keppeler, Dave Pitts, Vic Sredl, Lew Sigmon, Bill Cronenberg, Trace West, Sean Cantrell, Joe Swink, Ron Kindley and Adam Volant. 2nd Row: Lance Gilman, Rusty Sloane, Roscoe Davis, Eric Woodhouse, John Parrott, Derek McFarland, Steve Pearson, Bill Powers, Doug Jacobsen, Dan Shrimpton and Drew McKone. 3rd Row: Steve Champion, Kris Beck, Bob Clay, Sam Russell, Scott Griffea, Joe King, Scott Hurst, Dan Young, Frank deVenoge, Jim Ring, John Williams, Mark Arboneaux and Paul Hicks. 4th Row: Brian Egloff, Rob Davis, Ron Maass, Mike Clegg, Jim Stepnowski, Bob Clark, Ron Gillespie, John Heslin, Rich Stone and Bill Burns. 5th Row: Dave Carter, Mike Pannell, Dave Sullivan, John Ancona, Chuck Chung, Eric Lassalle, Mike Beyer, Rob Davis, Andy McAllister, Scott Stachelek, Ted Wagner, Thorpe Whitehead and Dave Omstead. 6th Row: Mike Owen, Beatty Barnes, Chris Starling, Charles Nelson, Kirk Dewyea, Mike Wood, Mark Bristol, Ben Semmes, Joe Swider, Calvin Williams, Steve King, Sevren Maynard, Greg Secrist, Mike Coleman, Ed Page and Mike Bryant. 7th Row: Dave Hope, Walt Coleman, Dave Williams, John Scarpino, Chris Demmons, Al Cuellar, Don Calder, Ed Wetherell, Greg Gooch, Jim Florio, Eric D’Anna, Scott Miller, Hugh Brien, Phil Jones, Tim Hooper and Pete McCrary. 8th Row: Thomas Towers, Hugh McGloin, Chris Long, Gregg Thomas, John Doyle, Tom O’Buckley, Bill Reagan, Rob Taylor, Greg Rollins, Tom Reimann, Dan Riley, David Hickey, Hugh McMenamin, Andy Gillespie, John Gillespie and Mike Schenstrom. 9th Row: Mack Carr, Stephen Dorsey, Wayne Sinclair, Todd Friewald, Timothy White, Steve Neary, James Wiecking, Chris Goerner, Chris Hall, Sam Tate, Jim Anderson, Christian Comberg, Charles Cayce, Chris Start, Tony Putre and John Wanat. Not pictured are Andy Andres, Paul Brotzen, Greg Connor, Kevin Davis and Shawn Evans.

Caption provided by Ed Wetherell, class agent.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 2.

Class of 1988: 1. Former lacrosse players Kris Beck, Ron Maas, Tommy Towers, John Ancona, Dave Hope, Steve King and Ben Semmes reunited with Coach Doug Bartlett at the VMI versus Bellarmine University game April 21.

2. Mike Wood and Dan Young at the reunion.

4.

3. Bob Clark, Joey Swink, Drew McKone and Bob Clay at the 30th Reunion in April.

1.

4. Led by Adam Volant, Dave Williams and Mark Arboneaux, the class gave Old Yells for ’85, ’91 and ’88.

5. Mike Schenstrom, who traveled from England, with Pete and Claire McCrary.

6. Greg Thomas, Todd Freiwald, John Doyle, Wayne Sinclair and Steve Neary renewed their BR bonds during the reunion.

3.

7. At the reunion were, from left, Eric Woodhouse, Mike Wood, Jimmie Weatherford, Mark Bristol, John Parrott, Tim White and Beatty Barnes.

6.

8. Some BRs, like Rusty and Luckie Sloane, brought the entire family to the reunion.

9. Members of Company G at the April reunion included Tommy Towers, Mike Owen, John Gillespie, John Doyle, Tony Putre, Sean Cantrell, Walt Coleman, Jim Florio, Dan Riley, Chris Start, Thorpe Whitehead, Ed Wetherell, Gregg Thomas, Al Cuellar, Sam Russell and Hugh Brien.

5.

7.

8.

10. Getting ready for the reunion parade were James Stepnowski, Steve King, Tony Putre, Tom O’Buckley, Dan Riley, Wayne Sinclair, Dave Omstead, Mike Coleman, Adam Volant, Chris Long, Dan Young, Sam Russell, Greg Rollins, Lew Sigmon, Thorpe Whitehead, Rich Stone and Sev Maynard.

9.

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10.

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Class Notes A.J. Williams from Annapolis; John Gillespie from Harpers Ferry; Ray Simmons from southwest Virginia; Steve Neary from Norfolk; Bill Cronenberg and Ed Page from Pennsylvania; Mike Coleman, Todd Oakes and Mark Stock from northern Virginia; John Bordelon from Atlanta; and Chris Starling, when he was back east from San Francisco.

A.J. and Rosemary Williams have graciously hosted a few gatherings at their home in Annapolis – most recently when the VMI rugby team was competing in (and winning) the regional tournament at the U.S. Naval Academy on their way to the Rugby Final Four National Championships in North Carolina, where they finished second.

Bob Clark hosted a mini class reunion at his house in Richmond, as well, and had a good turn out with between 25 and 30 BRs in attendance.

I know that Sam set a high standard as our class agent, and I will endeavor to live up to it.

To that end, I have a few requests to help build on his good work. Please send me an email with updates, pictures and other news. Reach out to and connect with BRs in your area. Make sure your information is up to date with the Alumni Association, and use the VMI app (available in the App Store) to locate BRs and other alumni in your area and places you will be traveling to.

It would be awesome to have regular gatherings of ’88 BRs going on all over the country. Call a BR you have not spoken with in a while and encourage them to join the class Facebook page. I hardly use Facebook for anything else, but there are currently more than 200 BR members, and it is a great way to keep in touch.

A final note for this issue: Congratulations to BR Jim Ring, who has been named the Virginia National Guard director of the Joint Staff and will be promoted to brigadier general, according to an announcement made May 1, 2018, by Maj. Gen. Tim Williams, the adjutant general of Virginia. Be on the lookout for more details in the Alumni News section in the next issue of the Alumni Review.

All the best to you and your families!

1989

Steve Chiles David A. Martin

Greetings from Rubber City at the culmination of an eternally long winter. So glad it’s over. I think this spring must have been busy for many of us, because I haven’t heard much from you guys. Please drop an update to Dave or me whenever you’re able; we’re pretty good at keeping everything on file for when notes roll around.

Our feature for this update is much deserved.

Please help me congratulate John Adametz on his promotion to rear admiral (lower half) this summer. John’s change of command ceremony was scheduled for July 11 at Naval Base Ventura

Class of 1990: Sam Stocks, Daren Payne and Ramon Williams attended the annual VMI Legislative Reception at the Library of Virginia in Richmond Feb. 20, 2018.

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County, Port Hueneme, California. The big pinning was to immediately follow the ceremony.

John’s far better half, Karen, put out an APB for anyone who found themselves in California at that time. John, to say that your BRs are proud of you is a profound understatement. Thank you for your dedicated service and sacrifice.

We also heard from Sean Raborn, who was in Lexington seeing “family” in the middle of May. Sean stopped in at Smith Hall to see Lori Parent, the superintendent’s secretary. Lori was the ME secretary before moving to her existing position.

Sean reported that Lori’s husband, Jeff, who also works at VMI, was retiring.

While Sean was on post, he was able to do a fly-by with Gary Bissell and reported he seems to be doing well. He also touched base with Wuzzer Rader via phone; it sounds like you need to cough up an update, Wuzzer!

I hope everyone enjoys the summer. I plan on attending a game or two this fall. The Ohio class agents of ’89 might even try and make it to the Toledo game Sept. 1. Let us know if any of you might be attending this clash of the titans. Be well, my brothers.

1990

Daren Payne

Brother Rats, I started off this reporting period with a visit from his honor, Judge John Franklin. John and his wife stopped by VMI en route back from a weekend at The Homestead and were able to do lunch in the new PX food court and take a tour of some of the new facilities. John is enjoying the more predictable schedule of being judge and having all of the kids out of the house. The very next day, Fred Minnegerode sent the following update: “My wife, Stacy, and I were in Charleston, South Carolina, this past weekend and had dinner with Mike Pilley and his wife, Sheri. We almost caught up with Ken Robinson, too. I saw a Facebook post that he was having lunch right around the corner from our hotel, but he was flying out that afternoon, and we could not hook up. You never know where you might have a mini reunion.”

Speaking of mini reunions, I was able to meet up with Sam Stocks and Ramon Williams during

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the Legislative Reception in Richmond in February. It was a great event with a great turnout, including the governor, lieutenant governor and a good number of members of both houses of the General Assembly. I also got a note and picture from Raynor Garey, who ended up working out with Mint Ralston at a gym in Charlotte during morning PT in April. Both are now retired from the military and didn’t recognize each other for at least an hour. Mint also reported taking in a Charlotte Knights baseball game with none other than Rich Treanor.

We also had another reunion of sorts that I wouldn’t characterize as “mini,” due to the sheer number of BRs involved. VMI’s Day of Giving, “Moe Needs A Ride,” turned into a great online forum involving more than 30 BRs throughout the evening. The emails, texts and Facebook messages were flying. Forgive me if I attribute something to the wrong person. Rob Hays checked in and donated while flying over Texas. Bill Gaspar was able to donate while out in the wilds of remote Pennsylavnia. Doug Spitz chimed in while traveling, as well. Former class agents Rob Clark and Hunter Trumbo stepped up to help online. I heard from financial planner Mike Morelock out of lovely Glen Allen and Brian Woodford from Fort Belvoir with the Army’s 3rd Transportation Expeditionary Brigade, which among other things, is responsible for all the Army Reserve watercraft.

Bill Ator and John Aydelette checked in from South Carolina, prompting Mike Mullori to email and ask if we would get haydown for donating as if this were a blood drive. Chip Chenery wanted to know if we got a weekend. Lenny Carson was content with just an optional walk down for SRC, while Steve Fitton was hoping Moe made it back to barracks in a drunken state after a stop at the Palms. On the topic of drinking, I believe it was Jim Hynes or Rob Hays who called the guard room offering beer in lieu of a monetary donation. Needless to say, they were told booze is not legal tender. From Richmond, we heard from the ever-faithful Terrence Kerner, as well as Jim Cox and Sam Stocks who probably had a better time being online with the class than they would have had at Moe’s appearance in Richmond that night.

Johnny Hahn joined BRs Chenery and Hynes in ganging up on BRs to help bring in those last few critical donors. One of those last was George Palomar, who checked in at 11:29 and change just as taps was sounding in barracks; yes, he beat the stick. George was followed closely by Jamie

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Setze letting us know he pitched in. A day later, BR Pedigo joined the party from Hawaii, but given he was like five time zones behind, he gets away with a “correct but wish to explain” for being late.

On the opposite end, we had Dave Kaulfers from the West Coast, and Chris Callahan and Kevin Hanford were among the first to come up on the net as soon as I hit send on my reminder email that started this whole nightlong conversation.

The group also had a number of emails during the evening from Rob Gudz, Raynor Garey and Todd Jacobs checking in from the wilds of Arkansas and Rich Mehl from his post in Wilmington, North Carolina. It was an awesome online night of hilarious emails, messages and posts on social media, sharing some terrific memories and reconnecting on the information super highway. Steve Yarbrough summed it up perfectly: “Awesome to read the funny replies from our BRs last night.

Even 28 years later, when I read these emails, I could recall the humor and personalities of our BRs like it was yesterday. As one BR said, it was like an ‘online mini reunion.’ Out of all the VMI classes with living alumni, our class placed third in terms of number of donors and percentage of the class donating. I’m already making plans and looking forward to another similar, but better, event next year.”

Col. Neil Whitmore let me know that Rob Urochuk was in town at the end of March with a contingent of high school wrestlers who got a chance to work out in our new facility in Cormack Hall.

Speaking of Neil, he was recently elected to the local school board.

I also had Rob Gudz in for a visit in March and had the opportunity to show him around some of the new facilities and introduce some of the upcoming projects his firm may be interested in.

I also made a shameless plea for an invite to the VMI quail hunt next year. Rob also offered to sell me an AR-15 at a great price just a few hours before Matt Hemenez called to see if I was interested in his AR, which is now banned in California. I told Matt I’d be glad to keep it safe for him until he can find his way to a more gun-friendly state.

I traded Facebook messages with Andy Beasley around the time baseball season was starting. After living in the Savannah, Georgia/Fort Stewart area twice in my career, I remembered that Andy played minor league ball there for the St. Louis Cardinals organization. The Savvy Cards, as they were called back then, gave way to the current edition of the Savannah Bananas, a college summer

league similar to the Cape Cod or Coastal Plains league. As I attended many games there over the years, I was wondering whether I’d seen BR Beasley play there or not.

Speaking of baseball, your Keydets got off to a great start with early wins over No. 19 South Carolina and No. 15 University of Virginia. On hand for annual VMI gathering for the big game at the Diamond in Richmond against Virginia Commonwealth University were Tony Baker; Charlie Plageman; Hal Jones; the former pitching duo of Barry Johnson and Mike Doczi; Sam Stocks; and Terrence Kerner, who typically provides the luxury box for the BRs. It was actually a perfect night for baseball after a weekend of winter weather, and they cheered our Keydets on to a 4-1 victory in front of a partisan VMI crowd. We also had a decent contingent as part of the great crowd for senior day at the Wofford College game with BRs Minnegerode; Barry Johnson; Payne; and Joey Jones, who brought his entire Little League team to the game. As of this writing, we’ve won 26 games with victories over in-state foes Virginia Tech, Old Dominion University and Longwood University, in addition to the aforementioned wins over UVa and VCU. That gives us a win over every state D-I school we faced except for a one run loss to James Madison University. I’m not positive but think we are on track for the unofficial state championship.

C.J. Bodnar and Lenny Carson were both on post during the week after Easter. C.J. was taking his daughter on the college tour since she is about to finish her junior year. Lenny was here to help with a construction project as part of the Corps spring field training exercise. C.J. continues his work for the city of Portsmouth Department of Public Works, while Lenny is still educating our future leaders as a high school teacher. Also on post recently were BRs Pitman, John Hahn, “T.K.” Tallet-Kelpsa and Gottwald, who were among the literally hundreds of alumni who brought kids up for Legacy Day and the tailgate and baseball victory over Western Carolina University one Saturday afternoon. I’d highly recommend this event for anyone with kids aged 2-16 for next year in mid-April, as I’ve gotten nothing but positive reviews for it.

Also around town, I see a fair bit of the usual suspects: Ramon Williams at the VMI Foundation; Matt Schwarzmann as a basketball season ticket holder; John Burleson, who continues to consult with me on the home I’m trying to build;

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Class Notes Chris Larlee, who was gracious enough to provide me tickets to the Taste of Lexington tour; Neil Whitmore in admissions; and Keith Kornegay, who continues is work for the Department of Health in the area of water resources and is a big help to me with my misadventures in trying to get a well put in on my property. We have a quarterly lunch meeting here in Lexington for the ’90 BRs, so if you are ever going to be in town, hit me up and join us if you are in the area.

Around the same time, I received emails from Chris Callahan; Lt. Col. Rob Hays, who is still in the Air Force Reserve Command as the A3/ A3MV (I’m sure you USAF types know what that means, the rest of us just know it must be important); Kelly Musick; Col. Lee Havird, who was looking to get his ring repaired before heading off to his next command in California; and Col. Mike Manning, who continues to work in the acquisition business as the portfolio manager with Marine Corps Systems Command at Quantico.

Also checking in via email, Weedon Gallagher let me know his son, Connor, is about to be commissioned on active duty into the Corps of Engineers: “I’m still in command. Boss says I have to stay until I get it right! Likely rotate out in the fall.

Not sure where I’ll end up. Hopefully someplace on J-Staff. Hopefully they don’t throw me out yet.

Very proud of Connor. He’s excited to start being a butter bar. Cool time in his life.”

Andy Schaaf paused between ultra-marathons to send the following: “Just the name of Gus Schuster ’87 is enough to give me nightmares! By God’s grace, I am still running and cycling. You need to get a bike! It’s much easier on the entire body, and the cardio work out is great.” He also reported bumping into Paul Valenzuela during one of his endurance events. You guys are truly amazing to still be competing those distances as we hit the big 5-0.

Eric Carpenter dropped me a line from the Pentagon, where he retired from the Army in 2011 and transitioned into a civilian job as a strategic analyst on the Joint Staff J-8 directorate (force structure and resources). Also reporting in was Mark Cunningham (aka Ham) of Dominion Power, who got me linked up with Dave Stanley and Dennis Fogler.

Intelligence gleaned from LinkedIn indicated that Andy Mergens retired from the Army following a nearly 25-year career and is now working for the Anchorage, Alaska, public school system.

He joins BRs Dennis Dupras and Karl Powers

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among those of our class who now reside in The Last Frontier. Thanks for all your service, Andy, and congrats on the civilian job!

I also see on LinkedIn that Tim Edwards recently began a new job in project management with AdvanSix in Hopewell, Virginia, and Chip Chenery started a new job in the information technology field with Insignia. Speaking of new jobs, Dave Ratliff got a new gig at Appalachian Electric Power on transmission line projects after taking a couple of years off and getting bored.

Just before the deadline, Pablo Martinez, Charlie Plageman, Greg Hatchett, Ken Kovac, Mike Kemp, Neil Whitmore, Ramon Williams and I were able to get together for a couple of meals while they were in town for VMI business. It was really awesome catching up with these guys and even more impressive that Pablo, Greg, Kenny and Mike come to VMI on their own time and own dime to do great work in support of the Institute’s programs.

As you are reading this, we are now less than 18 months away from our 30th Reunion. Mark your calendars now for April 10-25, 2020, as our reunion will be somewhere in that timeframe, exact date to be determined. We are not an “honored class” that has to give a big check, and this time we will have much more control over our sequence of events than we had with the 25th. I am going to be reaching out for help in setting up our reunion and coordinating our golf outing, skeet shooting, canoeing and other adventures, as well as seeking out those to help with party prep and set up and the other administrative details involved with the events. Without all of us, we can’t have a successful weekend. If you are able to help in any way, please let me know via email, phone call or text.

Finally, if you are not getting my regular email updates, please email me at paynerd@vmi.edu, and I’ll add you to our 170-plus distribution list, or give me a call/text at 540-287-1252. Until next time, go Keydets!

Daren Payne

1992

William Woodward

BRs, Here are the latest updates from our classmates. It is a little shorter than normal, so please keep sending me your inputs.

First and foremost, I am including a picture that Coach Doug Bartlett sent in of him and Alex Alston at the VMI Foundation during a visit back to post by Alex.

Andy Tate has been doing an incredible job getting our BRs together on a monthly basis up in northern Virginia. I missed the most recent one in April, as I was out in San Diego on reserve duty, but made the March event. Rob Schonberger hosted that evening at Port City Brewery where he works part time when not teaching our kids in the Fairfax County public school system. Rob reserved a table for us out on the brewery floor. We had a great few hours together catching up and planning future evening get-togethers. Most of our significant others attended, as well, and braved a heavy dose of VMI stories. Larry Nevel, myself, Rob, Andy,

1991

Chuck Story

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 1991.

Class of 1992: Col. Tom Timmes with Cadet Douglas Nyguyen ’19 at the annual Benefactors Luncheon April 13, 2018. Douglas, whose father is Anhtuan Nguyen, was the recipient of the ’92 class scholarship.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes New Jersey Army National Guard May Theo Androus and Anhtuan Nguyen 6, 2018, at Joint Base McGuire-Dixtook a photo together at the event. As I Lakehurst, New Jersey. Congrats to J.J., mentioned previously, if you are living and best of luck in your command tour. in the national capital region and are not Todd Pegg reported that he returned to getting emails about these gatherings, VMI in May 2018 where he is the new please let me know, and we will get you deputy commandant for operations, added to the distro. plans and training. Glad to have Todd Speaking of Anhtuan, for those who back at VMI. did not see it on Facebook, he was just Alan Saunders sent me an update selected for full colonel in the Army about a great opportunity that happens Reserve. Congrats to Anhtuan and his the first Saturday in May each year in wife, Linda. Well done and very much Lexington. It is the Warrior Shoot at deserved. Anhtuan also informed me Class of 1992: Larry Nevel, Woody Woodward, Rob Schthat he is mobilizing to Afghanistan for onberger, Andy Tate, Theo Androus and Anhtuan Nguy- Quail Ridge. This is a great sporting clay the next six months and will return to the en during a class gathering in the national capital region. shooting event which supports wounded warriors and local veterans. Alan said he U.S. around December. While we are on sponsored one of the shooting stations the subject of the Nguyen clan, Anhtuthis year in honor of our class. Registraan’s son, Douglas ’19, was the recipient of our class scholarship this year and tion opens at 9:00 a.m. Saturday mornwill be the drum major for Band Coming. You can register at the event that morning or through Quail Ridge’s webpany during the 2018-19 academic year.

Sadly, none of us on the committee could site https://www.quailridgesportingmake it to the scholarship luncheon, but club.com/ by following the ScoringPro our man at VMI, Col. Tom Timmes, was link, create an account and register. able to cover down for us. Tom sent us I was up in Lexington back in early a picture of him and Douglas. Thanks April and went out to observe the FTX for attending, Tom, and best of luck to for the noncommissioning students Douglas during his 1st Class year. that my son, Will ’18, was participatClass of 1992: Col. J.J. Eget held the guidon during his change I received a few updates from BRs who of command ceremony. He assumed command of the 57th ing in. They were out at a professor’s are transitioning jobs related to VMI or Troop Command, New Jersey Army National Guard. home building a pavilion for Rockbridge the military: Capt. Chris Bergen reCounty High School as a service project for the community. While there, I was walking ported he was sorry to have missed the reunion around a large garage that had been turned into but was glad everyone had a good time. Bergs a mess hall for the weekend. I stumbled across said, “I left command of Naval Support Activity BR Clinton Seybold’s VMI chair around one of Lakehurst, New Jersey, in November 2017, and the lunch tables.

I’m now at my (hopefully) final duty station.

Lastly, I wanted to mention that a resolution I’m the director of the United States Strategic was recently sent to Andy and me from the VMI Command Missile Warning Center in Cheyenne Mountain in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

I plan on doing this job for a little over a year and then retire here in Colorado Springs, grow my hair out and stop shaving but still try and find a respectable job.”

Capt. Marc Orgain is turning over command of the Navy Operational Support Center, Norfolk, Virginia, June 28, 2018, and retiring from the Navy after more than 26 years of service earning a well-deserved break and more time with his family, as he has been living and working in Virginia Beach while his family remained in Richmond, Virginia, during this final tour in the Navy.

Class of 1992: Alex Alston and Coach Col. J.J. Eget sent a photo of him taking over Class of 1992: Clinton Seybold’s VMI chair.

Doug Bartlett. command of the 57th Troop Command of the

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Class Notes Foundation. It was presented to the class on behalf of our donation we made at the reunion last September. As you will recall, we donated more than $1.8 million to the Institute for our 25th Reunion. This was an incredible effort by all of us – most especially the members of the Campaign Committee who led the effort. Andy and I are truly grateful for your generosity and extremely pleased that more than 50 percent of our BRs donated to the campaign.

Please let me know of any major life events such as marriages, births, deaths and advanced degrees so I can inform the Alumni Review. If you have a change of address, let the Alumni Association and me know so that we can make sure you get all VMI correspondence.

In the bonds, Woody

1993

Jim Sharp

I hope these notes find everyone in good spirits.

I heard from globe-trotting BR Tray Petty. He is still living in Lynchburg with three kids – two girls, 12 and 10, and one boy, 9. He runs into Andrew Joyner and his three girls often. Tray stays in touch with John Guggenhiemer who is in Wrightsville Beach and he is doing well. Tray also ran into Kirby Smeltzer at a lacrosse day in Lexington, Virginia. Kirby has a daughter playing lacrosse. Recently Tray talked to Gil Minor.

Gil is in Chicago and back in school earning a master’s degree.

Speaking of postgraduate school, Sills O’Keefe dropped in an update. “I graduated from Washington and Lee University School of Law May 5.

It was a great day and the end of a grueling three years. I could not have done it without Adele and Jack! Lincoln Swineford came by the house for breakfast with his oldest (Emma) and youngest (Kat) daughters.

They were in town for Legacy Day. Emma and Kat are great kids, and we had a fun time catching up. Now I am studying for the Virginia Bar Exam (one of the five toughest in the country) and am still in the search for my first job as a lawyer. So, no rest for the weary. As

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always, if any BRs are coming to big Lex, shoot me an email or give me a ring. I’d love to meet up! See everyone at the reunion!” Personally, I would like to see Sills partner with Van Hardenberg to create the firm of Hardenberg O’Keefe in Lexington. I might intentionally get a speeding ticket in Rockbridge to hire them. With those two personalities on a case, I think the judge’s head would spin. In all seriousness, big props for Sills sticking it out with family and all and graduating.

Kelly Holbert is transitioning into the next phase for their family. “I’m giving up command of the 43rd Air Mobility Ops Group at Pope Army Airfield and retiring from the Air Force this summer. Bobbi, Maddi and I are moving to Hendersonville, North Carolina (right in the middle of Southern Conference country), and I have accepted a position flying PC-12 NGs for PlaneSense based out of Charlotte. My oldest, Tyler, will be attending the University of North Carolina-Wilmington in the fall. Looking forward to the reunion!”

Class of 1993: Kelly Holbert with his wife, Bobbi. Holbert’s final Air Force flight was acknowledged with the traditional formal water salute.

Note that Hendersonville is northwest of Charlotte in the foothills below Asheville. In other words, he will be within a 30-minute drive of about 26 breweries. Strong move, Kelly; strong move.

Speaking of breweries, our BRs David Hoy and John Barefoot are hard at work putting together the social side of our 25th Reunion this fall. We expect to see plenty of beer from their two breweries. The dates of the reunion will be Nov. 2-3, 2018. Expect to hear from our Reunion Campaign Committee led by Clifford Foster and Tom Ripley, as they will be seeking everyone’s reunion attendance and participation. Remember the only right answer to them is “Yes, I will be there and will support the ‘I.’” As always, thank you to our BRs who are serving our country in uniform.

Jim

1994

Clay Campbell

Dear Brother Rats, Hope this issue of the Review finds everyone in good health. Since the last time I wrote, Fat Jimmy Bratina had another baby, and Nathan Rush welcomed a grandbaby. Let that sink in for a minute. (These are separate babies we are talking about, just to clarify.) Tim Bailey transitioned out of the Marine Corps and has taken a sales job with James River Equipment in Raleigh, North Carolina. I heard from Mike Eason, who wrote, “I’ve been assigned to a TAFT in Ukraine; basically we help the Ukrainian military with updating their military education and doctrine.” He reported he has been there for about eight months, and at the end, he will head back to Fort Sam Houston.

Jason Nicholls got in touch with me as I was writing these notes. He wanted to report that he is thankful for all the thoughts and prayers. He is in the process of chemo and said he’s going to beat this cancer. I honestly think he pulls off the bald look better than Chris Gros or Buzz Lucas.

Everyone, I hope all is well.

Always, Class of ’94 Pig

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1994: William Harding and Clayton Ricks at the opening of Ricks’ new place, Fountainhead Wine and Beer Bar, in Tampa, Florida.

Class of 1994: Nathan Rush is a new grandfather.

Class of 1994: From left, Cabell Thomas ’18 (grandson of Vince Thomas ’43), Settle Frank ’43 (4th generation VMI graduate), Jeff Guild (grandson of Curt Guild ’43 and son of Jeff Guild ’70) and incoming cadet John Samitt (great-grandson of Curt Guild ’43, grandson of Jeff Guild ’70 and nephew of Jeff Guild) at the 1943 spring reunion April 21, 2018.

1995

Joseph W. Doyle

Brother Rats, I am writing these notes after attending the New Market Day parade. As always, it is my favorite parade all year. It is hard to believe that, 23 years ago, we marched our final New Market parade and five days later walked the stage and received our diplomas (which I’m looking at now as it hangs above my desk). In just two short years, we will all be getting together to celebrate our 25th Reunion. It’s so hard to believe, and I hope we can have a fantastic turnout for that. As of now

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though, when you read this, we will be getting ready for football season. I hope to see some of you at the games. Let me know if you are coming so we can meet up.

William Christopher and I had the chance to chat the other evening. He retired 18 months ago and started First City Farm in Leavenworth, Kansas. It is an organic farm with many different vegetables, chickens and honey. He said the learning curve has been steep, but it has been a lot of fun.

If you get a chance, check out First City Farm’s Facebook page. It is really interesting – especially for me, since I have a black thumb and could probably find a way to kill a plastic plant. His saying that they have on the farm is what I like most: “Not trying to make a lot of cash, just a little change ... change in how people view their food and how it is produced.” If anyone is in the Fort Leavenworth or Kansas City area, let him know

and stop by to see him and his family. Thanks for what you are doing, BR! I also received a great update from Fred Werth.

Here is what Fred has to say: “I recently attended the St. Louis VMI Alumni Chapter New Market dinner, and it made me think that I should check in after a long, silent absence. I continue to live in the St. Louis, Missouri, area (actually in St. Charles, Missouri) and work for Buckeye International. My three kids are all growing up fast. My oldest, Frederick M. Werth IV, is graduating from high school at the end of May. He will be attending Mizzou in the fall and majoring in chemistry.

My 16-year-old daughter, Virginia Lacy, is finishing her sophomore year in high school and currently plays basketball, softball and runs track – the pole vault and 4x800 relay are her best events. My youngest daughter, Sally McGavock, is finishing eighth grade and will be attending her first year of high school in the fall. She is the soccer star of the family and plays on a select team in St. Charles.

My wife, Diane, and I will be celebrating 23 years of marriage in November. All of this just makes me sound really old!

“I enjoyed meeting some of the other alumni from St. Louis at the New Market dinner recently.

I was surprised to learn that two New Market cadets were buried in St. Louis at the Bellefontaine Cemetery. One of the older alumni there was showing a picture of the ‘Woman Out of Uniform ... A Gratifying Spectacle’ poster on E-bay for sale for $175. I let them all know that the Class of ’95 was responsible for that! If our brother rats have not seen it, I highly suggest checking out Fox News’ ‘Legends and Lies’ series on the Civil War. Our BR (and my roommate) Mark Lacy stars in the show as General Ulysses S. Grant. The most recent show was all about Grant, and Mark was the star! Also, the series is directed by our BR Hershberger, so the Class of ’95 continues to make headlines.” Thanks for the update, Fred, and keep us updated on how you and your family are doing.

I also have to say that if you are not watching the “Legend and Lies” series, you are missing a treat. Kevin Hershberger has done an excellent job in his directing duties, and Mark Lacy is by far doing the best U.S. Grant persona I have ever seen. I can’t wait to hear stories from you guys about your acting and directing careers.

Well, that is all I have for now. Keep the updates coming, and I look forward to seeing some of you in the fall at some football games.

Rah Virginia Mil! ’95, ’95, ’95.

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Class Notes Speaking of Christian Hoff, he checked in recently after a hiatus and reported the following: “Last June, we decided to move from Virginia Tom Danielsen to just across the river in Maryland. We love it and have plenty of room if anyone is in the area and wants to stop by. I will be retiring from the Army Reserve at the end of June after 22 years; the Army staff sucked all the life out of me, and it’s time to call it quits. I know a lot of BRs who Brother Rats, are on active duty are starting to retire and think I hope everyone is doing well and having a proof what’s next. I am happy to talk with anyone ductive summer by the time you read this. and offer any advice about what to look for in It is hard to believe March 1 marked 25 years a company and help you network across indussince we broke out and became the Class of 1996.

It is amazing how fast the time has gone and that tries, as well as other alum; just send me a note. we have several more BRs who have been selected “Max Casteleyn is on the Joint Staff, and we for O-6. The latest on the list are U.S. Army Col. get together frequently inside and outside of Karl Painter, U.S. Army Col. Lee Freeman, U.S. the Pentagon. Back in March, a few of us got Army Col. Keith Kruelski and U.S. Navy Capt. together to celebrate our Breakout – hard to beNate Straub. Congrats to all. lieve that was 25 years ago. In attendance were Class of 1996: Tom Danielsen was able Nate Straub was good enough to check in from Max, Kevin Boteler, Dallas Richards and Pete to catch up with Doug Bartlett in LongCalifornia and wrote, “I’m still the base engineer Segersten. It was awesome to have a few drinks mont, Colorado, during a recent business trip. and public works officer at Naval Air Station and dinner and catch up. I regularly speak with Lemoore. Having a great time working with the Scott Shropshire, C.J. Mulligan, Rusty Mcfighter jocks building and bringing the Navy’s first Guire, Mike Waltz, Darren Marting and J.A. F-35 facilities online. The ‘I’ is well represented Glaccum, who are all doing well.” here: My deputy public works officer is Frank Congratulations are in order for several BRs. Mulcahy ’91 and Commander Bill Fallon ’98 First off, congratulations to Jim Flaherty and is the commanding officer of VFA-154 Black his new wife, Hillary, who were married April Knights; we see each other often. I will be here in 28. Jim’s VMI roommate, Jeff Mozgala, also decentral California for another year. I was selected serves congratulations after earning his master’s for O-6 this year and likely will be promoted to degree in nursing science and being awarded a captain in October. Not too sure where the adfamily nurse practitioner license this past May. venture will take us next. Will keep you posted.

And finally, Russ Moore recently made news in I will strive for the 25th Reunion if I am on the the Richmond Times-Dispatch being interviewed East Coast. Hope everyone is well.” by the paper after a recent promotion to office In other exiting news, Matt Bugusky and his managing partner for PwC. Congrats to all!

Class of 1996: Matt Holland and Chris wife, Kara, celebrated the birth of Kaitlyn TayFinally, I heard from Charles Gates who sent in Noe represented the class at Legacy Day lor Bugusky April 6. After some early complia picture from a recent meet up in Honolulu with in April. cations, Matt recently checked in and reported Corrie Brice and Mike Deegan. “We were able to that both Kara and Kaitlyn are doing meet up in Honolulu for dinner, beers and well. Congrats! reminiscing about the ‘Old Corps’ and As mentioned in the last edition of the remarkable individuals in it!” Charles notes, Mike Waltz is actively running for is currently a lieutenant colonel in the U.S. U.S. Congress in the Florida 6th District Air Force and happened to be in Hawaii as a Republican. His campaign is making for temporary duty when both Corrie and progress with several key law enforceMike were in town on temporary duty and business, respectively. ment endorsements. The Republican priThat’s it for this edition of notes. mary is Aug. 28, and I know Mike is apThank you to all who checked in. It repreciative of any BRs willing to assist his campaign. Our BRs John Adams, J.A. ally makes my job easy, and I know the Class of 1996: Corrie Brice, Charles Gates and Mike Deegan class appreciates hearing the updates.

Glaccum and Christian Hoff are already were able to meet up for dinner and drinks while in Hawaii actively involved and are great points of Until next time, all the best to you and on temporary duty and business. contact if you’re looking to help. your families.

1996

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes which direction it was headed. The next wave of BRs arrived starting with John Bushman, fresh in from distant Old Town Alexandria; David M. Hudock followed closely by John Duckworth (no one really knows where he came from); then came Billy Scott, current Burke resident and loyal employee of U.S. Customs and Border Protection; followed by the one and only international man-of-mystery, Jason Middough, also of Old Gentlemen of the Old Corps, Town Alexandria fame, who is currently serving Greetings and welcome to yet another stunning his last term on the board of Northern Virginia edition of your class notes brought you by the letCommunity College and is a world traveler. Yes, ters F, M and L; the numbers nine and seven; and world traveler; Jason spends his time bouncing Kraft food products (of the cheesy variety – not back and forth between Old Town and Ghana be confused with, of course, BR Cheezy). Any(where he has a cocoa plantation) and South Afway! Follow the disjointed and erratic collection of thoughts below to get your quarterly fix on all rica where he has several real estate investments. things ’97 and prepare to be thoroughly It would appear that while he was an inimpressed – or not. I guess it depends on vestment manager at the U.S. Treasury how vested you are in the Washington for TARP, he acquired an affinity for the Capitals this season and their two-game economic fundamentals of Africa. His lead in the Eastern Conference finals as wife, not to be outdone by Jason, is an of this writing. Numerous calls to Leesexecutive at General Services Administration, and were it not for her dedicaburg Police Department have been placed tion to that job, Jason said they’d be in requesting they finally put an end to the South Africa quite a bit! tailgate party at the Ash household which Returning to Whitlow’s: Things really has been ongoing since the Caps denied didn’t start going off the rails until the – for the first time – the Pens yet another Richmond group arrived, chauffeured by run at the 1997 reunion tumbler ... er, I intrepid driver, recently hired VMI emmean, the Stanley Cup. Well, you know what I mean. Speaking of drinking to Class of 1997: Members of the class celebrating the 24th ployee and soon-to-rival-kitten-videosanniversary of Breakout were, from left, Joe Kmiecinski, for-social-media air-time: Ad Hagan. excess ...

Billy Scott, Addison Hagan, Brett Ogletree, Dan Hall, Noah He found room in his heart (and in his Let’s start this episode at the site of a reSlemp, Al Williams, John Duckworth, John Bushman, Matt gas tank) to pick up a few BRs scattered cent celebration of the – wait for it – 24th Smith and Dave Hudock. around the greater Richmond area, inanniversary of the birth of our class. At cluding none other than Matt “Butthead” Smith the suggestion of BR Dan Hall, I contacted the (probably, of that group, the most excited to be only venue appropriate for such an august ocpresent); Brian “Elk” Richardson (sporting, imcasion, Whitlow’s on Wilson, a public house in pressively, what might be one of two or three the nether regions of Arlington, Virginia, which remaining in existence Matriculation t-shirts I knew would have the unbreakable furniture and in mint condition); Brett “Flounder” Ogletree, linoleum floors suitable for this event. Shockingly, who immediately and correctly pointed out my this fine establishment is well practiced in dealing distinct lack of social media interaction (workwith raucous, weeknight crowds and had no probing on it, brother); and Noah “Slemp” Slemp, lem setting aside a room for our class as far away keeping things undeniably and breathtakingly from the law-abiding and civil patrons as possible down to earth on his way north to Arlington. and, more noticeably, the bar itself.

This group of welcomed revelers descended on So, it should come as no surprise then that by Whitlow’s like a herd of cattle on a tea party, the time I arrived, a motley crew led by Dan Hall and it was at about this time that some of those (local), Kenny Pierce (up from Virginia Beach) among us thought it a good time to migrate to and Joe Kmiecinski (employee of HITT Conthe aforementioned linoleum-covered and intracting and in from Winchester) were bellied up Class of 1997: Dave Hudock and Alan destructible furniture-festooned “party” room at the bar ensuring the Institute was being heard Williams celebrating the 24th anniverbefore things really got out of hand. from at that precise moment. Also present and sary of Breakout March 7.

Fortunately, nothing got out of hand! The accounted for was a colleague of Dan’s, who

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coincidentally served in Vietnam with Edward Schowalter ’51, Korean War Medal of Honor recipient and VMI alumnus. Dan’s friend and co-worker brought some much-needed credibility and semi adult supervision to the group and regaled us with tales of VMI legend, Schowalter, who was quite the character apparently, and it was nice of Dan’s colleague to share some firsthand accounts of the now historic figure.

We were truly glad to have him there to partake in our paltry celebration!

Back to bedlam: Steadily, additional classmates began trickling into the venue, which by this time was starting to resemble something between a sweat party and a Hollins mixer – hard to tell which – but you can make a safe bet in

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Class of 1998: Present at the reunion were Paul C. Balassa, Regan M. Baldwin, Joseph L. Bates Jr., Michael T. Baumgardner, Matthew J. Bertsch, Robert A. Bopp, Todd R. Boykin, Joseph C. Brown III, C. Travers Clemons, Mark R. Cox, Christian D. Craft, R. Tivris Dixon II, Shane M. Finley, Brady A. Gallagher, Jonathan E. Gonzales, John L. Graef, Lee R. Guill, Matthew T. Guise, Robert A. Heely Jr., Charles T. Houk, Ryan D. Hughes, Joseph M. Kelleher III, David K. Killian, Travis B. Kurtz, Ryan J. Landmann, Howard J. Lowden Jr., Brian J. Lyerly, Simon A. Macioch, Jeffrey T. Meade, Joshua J. Metcalf, Paul Roger Moosman Jr., John P. Morris, Gardner A. Mundy II, Lee B. Parker III, Hamel B. Reinmiller, Patrick G. Roberts, Ernesto V. Sampson Jr., Tyler M. Shelbert, Jonathan A. Sims, Jonathan W. Spitzer, Matthew A. Staton, Wallace J. Taylor, Timothy O. Trant II and T. Michael Upshaw.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes only real transgression was my insisting that Al Williams was really Rick Hezel and refusing to admit otherwise. I insisted on calling Al “Rick” until I was corrected and offered another beer for memory improvement. My apologies, Al (and Rick), and I am very glad you decided to join us! All things considered, the event was very tame. We are thankful for that, thankful for breaking out in March and thankful for the lack of macaroni and cheese at this event!

But wait, there’s more! The Rev. Jared Wood contacted me; he has been coaching 13- to 18year-old girls’ softball. In June, he’s moving to Dunlap, Tennessee, to become the new pastor of Chapel Hill United Methodist Church, which he thinks should be a pretty good church.

Dunlap is outside of Chattanooga. Head down there to catch the VMI football game this fall, if able; Jared said he’d host!

Dave Short chimed in. He has been recently assigned to Alabama. He said that after being outside of the country for more than six years, it is nice to be “back in the land of Chick-fil-A,” baseball and football. Despite his recent return, Dave is set to deploy pretty soon – probably to a less exciting location, which is good news.

Thanks for letting us know, Dave!

In other news, Ed Ramatowski contacted me after his recent return from Afghanistan, where he served as staff chaplain, Combined Joint Special Operations Air Component. He wore two hats forward – the other being chaplain for the NATO Special Operations Component Command - Afghanistan/Special Operations Joint Task Force - Afghanistan commands.

He is still stationed at Hurlburt Field, Florida, with Air Force Special Operations Command.

If you’re in town and inclined, he would very much like to see you stop by!

And, in ground-breaking news, O.J. Johnson has been planning – and inviting most of us to – his retirement from the U.S. Air Force. Following his retirement May 29, he and his family will move to Fayetteville, Georgia, which is just south of Atlanta and wide-open for visitors! O.J. would very much like to see any passers-by stop in Fayetteville for a mini reunion.

That seems to be all the class can muster at this point, and I thank you for it. My best to all of you, and thanks to those of you who helped make this entry possible. I sincerely appreciate all input and could not have made this episode possible without your help!

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1998

Joseph Bates Jr.

Hamel Reinmiller

As I write these notes in May, we are just at one month after the 20th Reunion, New Market Day is tomorrow and another installment of the class notes is due. As I read through the notes we just received from February, I feel obligated to bone myself for not climbing the sentinel box for Old Yells – although I was on the gim after aggravating a rotator cuff injury two days earlier (coincidentally, the same day Ham asked me) – but someone can make amends in five years. It was great seeing all of those who attended. Special thanks to Hamel Reinmiller for continuing to be the hardest working person at the reunion; I am hopeful that he can plan some breaks in 2023. I always hate leaving, and each time I am reminded of just how special those times in Lexington truly were. I would go back and do it all over again if I could.

The 25th Reunion is a big deal, so it sure would be nice if everyone reading this edition can make it back. We are going to start planning early and intend on laying down a gauntlet that will captivate all. It will be our last reunion on the good side of 50, and a lot of people have never been back for a reunion, so it would be great to see everyone.

I received zero submissions for these notes, so I will do my best to mention all of those I saw and provide an overview of what you are doing (as best I can remember). Forgive me, guys; I did not take notes while talking with you, and I am bad at remembering names – spouse names may have escaped me. We are also limited to 10 pictures, so I used what I could.

I saw Matt Staton (affectionately known as “Fat Head”) for the first time since we graduated, which makes me a horrible three-year roommate.

He is doing well, and his beloved happens to be from Michigan. (My wife is, too; what are the odds that two rednecks from Rockbridge and Amherst land Michiganders?) Matt left us early to go see the parents, but he is doing well working with

the Army and our returning warriors. Let’s stay in touch better!

Robert Bopp and Brady Gallagher made the pilgrimage, and the time spent around those guys took me right back to Company C days, for sure.

Talk about brothers separated at birth; they have not changed, and the conversations were as hilarious as ever. Bopp’s oldest daughter has a surefire way to deter incoming dates, which is a skill she learned working with bulls on the farm, and he has pictures to prove it. He is working as an engineer and running the farm (fourth generation), and other than the finger cast he had, is doing well. Brady is in the Army but looking ahead to life outside the rank and file. He is likely staying around aviation; let him know if you guys know anyone looking for chopper pilots. Surprisingly (not so much), I saw Bopp waiting on Brady Sunday morning as we left the hotel and found out that Brady was tired of waiting for a cab at the Palms, so they force marched from the Palms out to the hotel. I hope you guys appreciate that visual as much as I did; I can see Chong ’96 yelling at Bopp the whole way and Brady making fun of it. Great to see you guys!

I spent some time talking with Mike Upshaw.

His family is doing great outside Washington, D.C. Mike is working with a large gas company in northern Virginia. (He gave me some education on my remodel – thanks.) He commutes early in the morning and afternoon to beat to traffic on I-95. His wife moonlights as a teacher and leads the kids’ activities, which include scouts, baseball, etc. Good seeing you guys and catching up; stay in touch!

I spent quite a bit of time with Josh Brown, Tyler Shelbert, Jeff Taylor, Gardner Mundy, J.P. Morris and Paul Balassa. My wife has not had a lot of time around a group of VMI guys (you Richmond boys are lucky – I miss it), but I can assure you she is eager to hear more of our stories.

We learned a lot about Company A and their affinity to hot sauce; man, how did it take 24 years to hear about that from rat year? I was also surprised that none of you guys were involved in the midnight beatings that were delivered to underperforming brother rats during the Rat Line; all along, I thought every company was involved, and come to find out, it may have just been a Company C thing. Ralph Ohland was not there to enlighten us or remind me of the name of the guy from Company F that did not come back from Christmas, so maybe we will see him in five years. Tyler Shelbert brought his mini me with him and is doing well.

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Class Notes

1.

3.

2.

4.

5.

7.

8.

9.

10.

6.

Class of 1998: 1. Former and current residents of room 161.

2. Hamel Reinmiller, Jeff Taylor, Mike Kelleher, Dave Killian, Todd Boykin, Ernesto Sampson and Charles Houk played a round of golf.

3. Aaron Frazier, Jon Spitzer and Jimmy Stanley reunited on the first stoop.

4. Coach Doug Bartlett and Stephen Schwanke, who has his very own midfield line: Connor, Brayden and Andersen.

5. Tim Trant, Mike Upshaw, Travers Clemons, Jon Gonzales, Ryan 172

Hughes and Christian Craft made their way to Bean’s Bottom.

6. Matt Baldwin, Joey Bates and Hamel Reinmiller with the ’98 guidon.

7. Ernesto Sampson threw the first pitch.

8. Trey Parker, Charles Houk, Hamel Reinmiller and Matt Bertsch at the class party.

9. Tori and Joey Bates with Jeff Taylor at the class party during the 20th Reunion.

10. Brady Gallagher and Robert Bopp together again.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes He treated us all to laughs at the after-party and a safe ride home; thank you! Jeff Taylor and Gardner Mundy are doing well (Jeff recently moved, according to Facebook), and we had a good time making fun of 3rd Class year and being neighbors.

John Dewey was mentioned a few times, but only with the most noble of intentions. Josh Brown continues to be the “only person from New Jersey that Aaron Frazier has ever liked” and reminded me of the meme from “Goodfellas” that you always see of Ray Liotta as we all sat around the fire.

Seriously, it was a blast.

Speaking of Aaron Frazier, we were able to catch up briefly. His family is doing well down in Greenville. I saw Jon Spitzer for a moment at the class picture and he and Trimble (Virginia Women’s Institute for Leadership) appear to be doing well. I did not see Jimmy Stanley, but I did borrow a picture for the edition of the hard chargers (Hotel) in barracks during Old Yells.

I spent some time talking to Travers Clemmons and was happy to hear about the outdoor travels that he and the family enjoy – hunting, fishing, etc. He is doing well working and enjoying a little farming on the side. I saw a picture on Facebook of Tim Trant, Mike Upshaw, Travers Clemmons, John Gonzalez, Ryan Hughes and Christian Craft.

I caught up with John Gonzalez for a brief minute, and that was all it took to share some Ken Dohanish stories of his recent escapades. Ken moved away from Charlotte after a brief stint there, but I will reach back out to him. John, look me up if you pass through soon.

Ryan Hughes seems to be doing well. We spoke briefly at the party (a few beverages in for me).

He moonlights running his own business and spends as much time as he can with the family enjoying the great outdoors on hunting/fishing adventures, which are the memories that matter most. Very cool!

Simon Macioch was out and about and is doing well as he winds down his career in the military.

We chatted with Paul Moosman, who is actually back at the “I” teaching.

Charles Houk was in attendance, and we all got caught up on his exploits running Southern Junction and the recent musical acts he has had through there, along with a few stories of his bouncing start in Charlotte. It was good to catch up, and if you find yourself passing through his area, come in for a drink.

I saw Jason Doucette for about 98 seconds on

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the Parade Ground after Old Yells, and he was headed out to get back for baseball practice (I seem to remember). Anyway, Deuce, it was good to see you for a minute – hope to catch you next time.

Finally, Col. Bush, our honorary brother rat, joined us for the festivities and, after a brief retirement, finds himself running an academic department at Liberty University, which appears to be on his terms and a rather amusing journey. It was great catching up; we will see you in five years!

I apologize for not having more content to share after our reunion. As I scrolled through one of the class pictures in front of the library, I realized that quite a few folks made the picture, but we missed you at the other events. How do we change that for the 25th Reunion? I would love to hear what everyone wants to do so that we can create an event for all to attend and spend more time catching up. I guess I still see Ring Figure in my brain, or maybe that is just what keeps me feeling young – I don’t know – but either way, I hope you are all doing well!

I encourage you to download the VMI Alumni Association app so you can see who may be around you in your travels; it is interesting. The next editions of class notes are due Aug.15, 2018, and Nov. 15, 2018, so please send me some updates (vmi98classnotes@gmail.com). If anyone wants to link up in Charlotte, then shoot me a note.

Rah Virginia Mil! ’98, ’98, ’98!

needless to say, he has been extremely busy. He blames his schedule on not being able to keep up with BRs better than he has, but he has an open invitation for anyone passing through Abingdon. He is still flying now that he has had his pilot license for two years and that is what he likes to do in what little spare time he has. Brian Withers is at Robin Air Force Base in Georgia.

He recently completed a charity bike ride called the 2018 Journey for Autism that took place in Macon, Georgia, on Lake Tobesofkee. He mentioned he works down the hall from three other VMI alums, but didn’t mention who or what class.

J-P Pesare sent me a rather long note and since he believes it is his first update, I will include it in its entirety: “Not sure I’ve ever written in, so here’s the short version: After getting out of the Army, I spent about a year in the desert oasis as a civilian winning hearts and minds and traveling the countryside with my pet sheep, Eunice (for disguise, of course). I then joined the government, where I learned to make friends and influence people. Sometimes, it worked. Finally, I entered the much kinder and gentler (insert sarcasm here) world of commercial real estate.

1999

William Steinbach

Brother Rats, Dallas Clark told me we had a great turnout for Legacy Day. Jake Britt, Jeff Holder, Lee Rees, Chuck Reinhold and several others Dallas says he is probably forgetting were in attendance. Dallas said it was great catching up with everyone and meeting the kids. Speaking of Chuck Reinhold, he tells me that he and his wife will be celebrating their 19th anniversary May 16. Congrats to Chuck and Christen!

Shane Steele is still in Raleigh, North Carolina, two years and counting.

Randy Eads has been the city attorney for Bristol, Virginia, since January 2017. Last July, he was appointed city manager, as well, so

Class of 1999: At VMI on Matriculation Day 2018 were, from left, Dallas Clark, Ben Ashmore Jr. ’18+3 and Ben Ashmore Sr. 173

Class Notes

2000

Jim Boatright

Class of 1999: Brian Withers at the 2018 Journey Ride for Autism in Macon, Georgia.

I recently started my own firm, Kinetic Bridge, which conducts site selection and acquisitions for investors and developers nationwide. Since graduation, I’ve tried (poorly) to keep up with several BRs, including Marrone, Trubenbach and Forrest. I had a great lunch a few years back with Varner, Dunville, Turpin and Brown, and I’ve recently had the great misfortune to be reconnected with Eads, Campbell and Wright. After all this, my wife still hasn’t left me, and we have a wonderful 10-year-old daughter. Life is good, and I hope it is with you and the whole class. I’d love to catch up with anyone who has time, and I look forward to seeing everyone at the next reunion! RVM! J-P.” Good to hear from J-P. I knew he had left the Army, but I wasn’t sure where he had landed.

Ben Ashmore sent me the following update: “Granted I got that unexpected early start, but ’99 now has its first – of what will hopefully be many – legacy through the Rat Line! I’m on post more these days, and it was good to see Dallas Clark keeping the Institute on track. My son, Ben ’18+3 (class added by Bill), also enjoyed seeing those of you who came up to him during the year. My oldest, Faith, is a rising senior at American University, and my youngest, Luci, claims she wants to go to VMI – at least for now!” Congrats to Ben on having the first legacy from 1999 to matriculate and complete the Rat Line. Both firsts for our class, as Ben mentioned.

Better turnout for notes this time. Appreciate the input.

In the bonds, Bill

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Brother Rats, As I write this update, summer is here along with the hot temperatures, and I’m wondering where spring went. I hope family, life and work are going well for everyone. Please keep the updates coming so we can let the class know how you are doing. I think this has been one of the best responses we have had for a set of class notes, and I’m excited to have heard from so many of you – especially those who have just checked in for the first time in a long time or ever. I received two return to sender notes this month, and they were for John Chisolm and Ken Landberg. John and Ken, please send an updated address when you have a minute. Right after the last set of notes were due, I received the annual new year update from the Arllen family. Christian and Kelley are doing well, with Christian working for Amazon Web Services and Kelley splitting time with family, work, volunteering and endless kids’ activities. Christian and Kelley have two daughters, Sydney (fourth grade) and Reagan (first grade). The family enjoyed a Disney cruise earlier this year, and Kelley’s parents were able to join.

Thanks to the Arllens for the update, and I look forward to receiving it each year.

Right after getting Christian’s update, I received an email from Tony Cerella. Tony updated that his family is well, and they just departed Germany in the summer for an assignment in Italy. The family is heading to a NATO assignment at NATO Rapid Deployable Corps Italy near Milan, and Tony says they are very excited. He’s also started a Doctor of Education degree program in organizational change and leadership at USC. I forgot to ask if that is Southern California or South Carolina, so Tony, please let us know.

I was excited to get an email and great update from Landon Allen. Landon has been living in Harrisonburg, Virginia, since 2014. His wife, Tabatha, is a Harrisonburg native, and they have been married for five years. Landon has a step-daughter, Gracyn (11); daughter, Sophia (3); and son, Hunter (18 months). Landon spent 2000-11 in the Marines, where he flew the F-18 Hornet and deployed twice to Japan. He then deployed to Afghanistan

as a forward air controller and finished as a T-34C flight instructor in Florida. After military duty, Landon flew privately for a year and then returned to the military as an Air Force reservist in Florida only to get out again in 2014 to focus on family.

Landon now flies for Southwest Airlines out of Baltimore (Baltimore-Washington International Airport). He recently reconnected with Mickey Wing, his roommate of three years at VMI. They also grew up together playing basketball from elementary school through high school. Landon has had a few lunches with Mickey and his wife, Leigh, during layovers in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Tim Amorim-Joyce (now Tim Brooks) got in touch with Landon about a year ago and updated that he is in the Boston area at a law firm and has a new baby girl.

Paul Lee checked in with Landon earlier this year and updated that he is doing well and working in Washington, D.C. Paul is preparing to assume command of a Marine Corps Reserve squadron. Landon recently reconnected with his dyke, Mike Guarin ’97, after almost 20 years of no contact. They had lunch in Boston, where he works for Department of Transitional Assistance.

I received a phone call from Vern Dooley which was unexpected and a great treat. Vern is doing well, lives in California and practices family law.

Vern has a daughter who is interested in federal law enforcement, and I was able to connect him with Justin Wood to get some career advice.

I also caught up briefly with Michael McDaniel on LinkedIn. Michael works in the software industry and lives in Herndon, Virginia.

Class of 2000: Jay Kearney and Will Warthen with their families at Stonehenge, England, in March.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Juliette Ryan Keller, and Tony Esteve and I was fortunate to visit with a few brother Jay Stafford ’05 were in attendance. Matt rats at a second annual mini reunion in said he started his own law firm last sumDraper, Virginia, in early April. In attendance were Whit Johnston; Scott Johnmer. Jay is an employment attorney in Maryland, and they do some crossover son; Jay Kearney; and our great friends, work together. Matt continues to focus on Danny Jones and Jason Bowman. Will federal contract law in northern Virginia.

Warthen was there in spirit and hopes It was great to get an email from Don to be able to join next year. A couple of Ferguson, and he updated that he acWhit’s friends from home were also in attendance. We ate some great food, told cepted a position as a plant manager for stories and drank a lot of beer. It was great Advanced Drainage Systems in Buena to catch up and embrace this stage of life Vista, and he relocated to Lexington in where family and work make it harder to July 2017. Don said he recently spent a stay in touch like we used to but also being weekend in Miami with Shawn Fisher Class of 2000: Tony Esteve, Jay Stafford ’05 and Matt Keller able to pick up where you left off like it at a first birthday party for Matt’s youngest daughter. and Derek Engelhard to celebrate Derek’s was yesterday.

40th birthday.

Jay Kearney also sent me an email I heard from Matt Guerin, and he said update and a picture of him and Will he took a break from military service afWarthen with their families at Stoneter VMI but immediately decided to enlist and is now a captain in the Army. He henge in England. Jay and his family works for the 51st Civil Support Team visited Will during their spring break in out of Augusta, Michigan. Matt has two March. They were all able to explore kids, a son (11) and daughter (9), and a London and Oxford during their visit. loving wife “who puts up with more crap Jay says the kids all had a blast, which than what I could ask any woman to ever included his two, Gianna (11) and Jackdo.” Matt stays in regular contact with son (8-and-a-half), and Will’s two sons, Jason Crabtree. Jason works for the VirChanning (5) and Troy (3). Jay’s wife, Josette, stays busy with the kids between ginia school system following a career as school and sports, and Jay continues to Class of 2000: Landon Allen with his family. an officer in the Air Force. be the VMI Alumni Association regional A little personal news to close out this director for northern Virginia and hopes to plan Adams, Josh Spradlin, Ethan Graham, Kyle edition of notes is that I launched a commercial something for our class in that area.

Pabin, Ryan Mitchell, Scott Hillyer and Stefan construction company in April, and the name Supon. Happy birthday guys; here is to 40 more is Lexdyn (pronounced Lex-Dine). The ‘Lex’ Chris Boswell and I were able to visit Friday of the Masters Tournament. We had coordinated a great years. is for Lexington, Virginia. We’re starting small, As I was wrapping up this set of notes, I sent place to meet since you can’t have phones, and but I’m ready for the challenge after working for it was good as always to catch up and certainly a note to Pat Haddock and asked him to get the a couple of large companies since VMI. Emily memorable to do it in Augusta, Georgia. word out on social media that class notes were and I have been married for 18 years, and our Let’s continue the tradition of recognizing our needed. Shortly after, I received several updates. two kids, Madeline (11) and Whitaker (10), are brother rats who have celebrated 40th birthdays Thank you, Pat, as always! doing great. We’re discussing a first trip to VMI since the last set of notes: Chris Pilger, Matt First to check in was Devon “Deebo” Jones. and Sweet Briar College so the kids can see Okuley, David Emmerich, Jason Rasch, Brian Devon’s youngest daughter, Tabitha, turns 1 year where all these crazy stories and memories were Lee, Donald O’Sullivan, Matt McComas, Jake old at the end of May, and he is still working for made. Speaking of memories, my four-year Bilthuis, Carl Hammond, John Stewart, Jay Ke- Liveperson, which is a consumer facing technolroommate, Jon Hartsock, and I traded a couple arney, Mike Landberg, Will Warthen, Danny ogy that makes computers chat like a human of quick emails back and forth. It is always great to hear that Jon and his family are doing well Boyers, Frank Lucero, Luke Hale, Jeb Cox, Pat would.

Haddock, Kelly Underwood, John Gilbert, Phil Mike Mulé was next to check in and updated and that Jon is continuing to proudly serve our Nature Boy Hopkins, Nick Castleberry, Todd he is living in Richmond, Virginia, and working great country. That is all for this edition, and Kennedy, Derek Englehard, Whit Johnston, at Capital One in the fraud strategy and analysis I hope to hear from many of you for the next edition. Please remember you can send updates Clint Mundinger, James Mahala, Mike Lim, department. Mike closed his email with a “SemAnthony Rayome, Kenny Stigler, Lee Davis, Bill per Fi,” which was followed minutes later with to classnotes2000vmi@gmail.com. Finally and Meyers, Steve Roman, Josh Hilewitz, Charlie an email from Matt Keller with a subject line that most importantly: all our brother rats who have Pramawat, Adam Priest, Josh Manzano, Paul read, “YYYUUUUTTTTT!” Matt updated he served or are currently serving our great counKeeton, Chuck Minski, Dave Hoffman, Eric just celebrated the first birthday of his latest baby, try, be safe and thank you!

2018-Issue 3

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Class Notes overseas tour as a family. Saw Ryan Blake a few weeks ago; he is in Suffolk, Virginia, with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. He Rich Groen and Meghan and his son, Finn, are doing well.”

Congrats on command and awesome that you got to reconnect with Ryan!

My old friend, Derek Bogdon, contacted me with an update. “Had the opportunity to visit VMI and work with Eric Hunter ’08 to teach Brother Rats of the Class of 2001, a LS-351 noncommissioning leadership class.

I hope everyone enjoyed the transition into The topic was being a leader on Day One in spring – a time for new beginnings and reconyour job after graduation. Had a lot of fun; necting with friends! I’m going to challenge you great questions and engagement from the caover next few days to reach out and reconnect dets. Then had an opportunity to speak to the with members of class. Some are doing tremenlacrosse team during lunch on networking. Also dously well, but others are fighting the good fight Class of 2001: Mark Bauserman and Dan got to do dinner with Coach Bartlett and see within their lives. Kind words from a fellow BR Schindler disassembling an early 1800s a VMI lacrosse game while in town; I got my go a long way, so please reach out and reconnect! two-story log house.

VMI fix. I have been coaching youth girls’ laJason Whitaker recently contacted me to tell crosse, grade 3-4. We had the opportunity of Jim Bourie’s wedding. “Good evening, to go on the field at halftime during the and hope you’re well! Wanted to provide women’s Brown versus Dartmouth game this photo from Jim Bourie’s wedding in in Providence, Rhode Island.” Awesome, Italy May 4, 2018. Attending were Fred Derek! It’s great to see you still working Hair, Jon Palmer ’00, Lisa (Jim’s bride), with VMI and providing support to your Jim and Matt McComas ’00. I’m told it community. was a great time, and from the pictures, Mark Bauserman and Dan Schindler I’m jealous my wife and I were unable to were able to meet up, “Dan Schindler and attend. A few weeks before their wedding, I, with help from my aunt and uncle who Parker Reeves, Nate Charles, Justin Harhave a boom truck, disassembled an early ber and I hung out with Jim at his and Li1800s two-story log house on my farm and sa’s place in northern Virginia. We drank stored the logs, flooring, trim and other Nate’s homemade brew, told old Rat Line Class of 2001: Fred Hair, Jon Palmer ’00, Lisa (Jim’s salvageable materials. The plan is to reasand VMI stories like the Jeep to Lisa (the bride), Jim Bourie and Matt McComas ’00 at the Bourie semble the log house with a new foundastories get better with age, as we all know), wedding May 18, 2018. tion on the same location in the hopefully and watched ‘Blade Runner 2049’ late into not so distant future. In the background is the evening. Additionally, Justin and his the 1912 stick frame addition, which was wife, Dawn, are expecting their first child, built against the original home. Not shown a daughter, later this month. We’re all exis a later 1800s balloon frame story and a cited for them as they begin a new chaphalf addition which will be relocated and ter in their lives with parenthood.” Great repurposed on the farm.” Looking great, news to hear of Jim’s marriage, reconnectfellas! ing with some of our BRs and Justin’s new Members of our class were able to conarrival. Thanks, Jason! nect with alumni outside of our class. Sam Ethan Weber hit me up to tell of his Fishburne wrote, “I ran into Captain Dengreat news and when he connected with ver Reese ’13 at the medieval martial arts Ryan Blake. “Hey, brother. Wanted to tournament I put on in Norman, Oklahosend some class notes on the Webers. ma.” Very cool, Sam! Christine and the boys and I are moving It’s amazing to see the strong bonds that to Germany, where I will serve a year on our class displays despite distances. Again, the U.S. Army Europe staff before taking if you get a chance, pick up your phone and command of 2nd Military Intelligence Battalion within the 66th Military Intel- Class of 2001: Derek Bogdon coaching at the Cran- reach out to our BRs! It was great to hear ston Lacrosse Club during the Brown versus Dart- from all of you, and please stay connected! ligence Brigade in Wiesbaden in summer mouth game. ’01, ’01, ’01!

2019. Everyone is excited for our first

2001

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Class Notes

2002

Salmaan Khawaja

notes this go around. I look forward to hearing from my other BRs soon! Best wishes to all of you. ’02! ’02! ’02!

In the spirit, Salmaan

Brother Rats, I hope that you all are well and enjoying 2018!

Sarah (née Withrow) and Matthew Cichy got married Sept. 16, 2017. Eddie Cade and Tony Franklin were in the wedding party. Matt said, “It

Class of 2002: Paul Carroll married Dr. Carly Scahill in September 2017. Pictured at the wedding were Connor Curtis ’01, J.M. Nemish, Derick Swenck, Paul and Carly. was great having some old roommates standing beside me. We couldn’t have asked for better weather that day.” Matthew and Sarah are now living in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

Matthew is working as a consulting engineer for Herbert, Rowland & Grubic, Inc. specializing in water distribution and wastewater collection and conveyance and pipeline rehabilitation. Congrats, Matt and Sarah!

Special thanks to J.M. Nemish for assisting me with class notes. John let me know that Paul Carroll married Dr. Carly Scahill in Folly Beach, South Carolina, in September 2016. In attendance at this wonderful event were Connor Curtis ’01, J.M. Nemish and Derick Swenck. Congrats to the happy couple!

Dan Chung is retiring from the Department of Defense after working in multiple domains including infantry, military intelligence, cybercom and the Defense Intelligence Agency. Dan noted that “Anthony Donahue will be graduating from Oxford University this July. Lau will be getting his second master’s from Georgetown University late this summer. Rah Virginia Mil!” Thank you to all those who kindly submitted

2018-Issue 3

Class of 2002: Matthew Cichy married Sarah Withrow Sept. 16, 2017. Eddie Cade, second from left, and Tony Franklin, far right, attended.

Class of 2002: Dan Chung and Jude Lau grabbed a bite this spring. Chung is retiring, and Lau will complete his second master’s degree from Georgetown University in the summer.

2003

William Talley V

Happy New Market Day! As I submit these to the Institute for publication, Facebook is alive with posts regarding those who “died on the field of honor.” As I write this, we’re about 120 days away from our 15th Reunion, and the buzz has started already. By the time you read this, we’ll be about 30 days away from doing Old Yells in the courtyard. If you haven’t already registered, please do so. Class wide events will include dinner and drinks at Moody Hall Friday evening and Marshall Hall Saturday evening. We’ll also be providing the opportunity to play golf or shoot sporting clays Friday. This reunion will be a casual, family-friendly one providing plenty of time to catch up with BRs over the weekend.

I must start the updates by noting that I missed putting the following update in our last set of notes, even though it had been provided to me in advance. Billy Schaller and Dr. Katherine Bernal were married in May 2017. In attendance at the wedding was Billy’s roommate (some may say former, I still call mine roommates) Josh Bandy with his wife, Kimberly. Additionally, Billy and Katherine are expecting their first child, a daughter, in August! Billy says they’re both very excited about the adventure they’re about to embark on and noted that if he was absent from the reunion, he had a valid excuse.

Congratulations, Billy and Katherine, and I’m sorry for the delay.

Jared Swanson, the stalwart provider of updates, reported that all is well up in Boston with his family. They are glad winter has finally ended.

He noted that Dave Burdette and his wife, Blair, had their third son, Robert Jackson Burdette, in December 2017. Dave also had the privilege of attending VMI’s inaugural Business Leadership and Innovation Summit this past March.

Steve Nakawa has just made a move to NASA, and things are looking up! He and his girlfriend, Laura, are regulars at Washington Nationals games and remind me via Facebook of what life without little people is like.

Greg Shpunder is flying Unmanned Aircraft

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Class Notes phone, as well. Spence is doing well – same vibrant personality as ever. His daughter has him wrapped around her fingers, which isn’t a bad thing.

Joe Vorhees is doing well down the Virginia Beach area – a big thanks to Joe for helping out with the golf part of our reunion. I saw Lara

Class of 2003: Chaz Wagner caught up with the Talley crew in April for a cookout one Saturday evening.

Class of 2003: Class Agent Bill Talley said of this photo, “John Noonan continues to convey fear into the eyes of others with his intense glare.”

Class of 2003: Chaz Wagner, Spence Robbins and Chris Drinkwater caught up one evening in March in the Washington, D.C./northern Virginia area.

System missions in Korea and growing his real estate empire.

Jordan Fox is expanding his construction business in Omaha. Jordan is headed on a mission trip this summer to help a youth camp in Africa.

John Noonan is still doing Senate work. Apparently, his daughter is taking swimming lessons with Derek Brown’s son – small world.

I’ve been in touch with Chris Drinkwater the last month or so, and he’s working hard and doing great things at Walter Reed Medical Center. He’s also still gloating about the fact the Eagles won the Super Bowl.

Spence Robbins and I connected via

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Class of 2003: Billy Schaller married Dr. Katherine Bernal in May 2017. Josh Bandy and his wife, Kimberly, attended the wedding.

Tyler and Stuart Chambers at the VMI Legislative Reception in Richmond back in February.

They’re doing well; life is fun with two boys who keep them active.

Jason Lambert reminds me about every day that I’m not running enough, based on his Facebook posts. I don’t know how many pairs of running shoes he goes through a year, but go ahead, man, and get some!

Blake Traina is getting ready to get back from Afghanistan. He and Jennifer are expecting that second son in September. While abroad, Blake has beefed up his inventory of various items sporting red, white and yellow.

Andy Biesterveld and his wife, Chelsey, found out that their third child, due in August, will be a little girl. She’ll join big brothers Lincoln and Alden. Andy’s down in Jacksonville waiving his Ohio pennant and buckeye necklace at all the Southeastern Conference fans. Brandon Matthews and his wife, Audrey, are doing well in Richmond. Brandon continues to take out the delinquents in Richmond, Virginia, with the Henrico Police Department.

I ran into Jason Annis’ wife, Theresa, recently while at an open house for Cosby High School in Chesterfield where she is a guidance counselor. They’re doing well with three young ladies keeping them busy. It was a memorable night for me, as my daughter, Savannah, will be a freshman in high school in the fall, which made me feel really old. However, knowing that Theresa is there to help keep eyes on her made me feel better. That VMI BR connection continues to pay back exponentially!

Chris Adams and his wife, Jennifer, just announced they’re expecting their second child, due in November 2018. Their son, Jackson, turned four in April, and I’m sure is excited to be a big brother.

Chaz Wagner was down in Richmond in April, and he caught a golden beverage or two with Lara Tyler and Vickie Ortiz and then ended up coming down to our house to grill out. He rode down on his Harley, and in addition to playing “The Spirit” and” Doxology” on his speakers, he took the kids, AmieAnne and I for a ride around the neighborhood. It was quite the sight to see with music, light effects and, of course, noise associated with a motorcycle that evening.

The kids can’t wait for Chaz to make another trip back to the house or see him at a football game this fall.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes While I haven’t spoken to him in a long time I keep up, to some extent, with Justin Phelps via Facebook. I don’t know exactly what he’s up to in the Richmond area, but I do know that he’s got a beautiful daughter, Aimee, and always seems to be up to something good.

Life in the Talley house has continued to roll at a fast pace over the last few months. We’ve been dealt a few challenges, but isn’t that part of life?

I know I’ve said this in previous editions, but as VMI alumni, we’re blessed with an awesome network and support system. Sometimes we don’t realize it or may take it for granted until something happens, but it’s been my experience that, when needed, we discover we have help and support from alumni that span all of the classes. That’s something truly unique and something we should all hold sacred. See you in 30 days! Rah Virginia Mil! ’03, ’03, ’03!

Class of 2004: Will Simmons and his wife, Danielle, welcomed Rowan Christine Simmons to the world May 9, 2018.

2004

Scott E. Campbell

C. Justin Roberts

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.

As you all are aware by now, we lost Terrell Jackson April 9. To everyone who was able to make it to Charleston for the funeral, has reached out to Jess and the rest of his family or offered support in any way, thank you!

To the best of times, Mariah Goodall and Doug Goodall welcomed a third tiny human to the world May 4, 2018. Emma Lee Francis Goodall weighed in at 10 pounds even and was 21-and-a-half inches long! Another big baby, just like her brother and sister, according to Mariah.

“We are all doing well and feel very blessed to be a happy and healthy family of five.”

Will Simmons and his wife, Danielle, also added to their family. They welcomed Rowan Christine Simmons to the world May 9, weighing in at a healthy 9 pounds and 2 ounces. Danielle and Rowan are doing great, and Tyler is pumped about being a big brother. Life is good,

2018-Issue 3

Class of 2004: Mariah Goodall and Doug Goodall welcomed a third baby, Emma Lee Francis Goodall, to the world May 4, 2018. according to Will. He’s still working for a biotech company in New Jersey and “had a killer deer (pun probably intended) season this past year,” so if any BRs interested in getting some hunting in, let him know.

I ran into Jim Palmer at the change of command

Class of 2004: Class Agent Scott Campbell said of this photo, “Will Simmons had a ‘killer’ deer season.” ceremony for the 29th Infantry Division at Fort Belvoir May 5. He and Libby Olson announced their engagement a few days before that. Libby also completed her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from East Tennessee State University that same week. Congratulations to both of you! Libby will be moving to Virginia later this summer.

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Class Notes the New Market parade and finally got to see the Natural Bridge! I hope to make it back down this fall for a football game and see some of y’all. Cheers!” Derek also had the pleasure of meeting Gen. John P. Jumper ’66, who was awarded the New Market Medal – the Institute’s highest honor – May 15, 2018.

Sean Matson continues to enjoy the massive Tom Hardinge success of Strike Force Energy. If you missed it, make sure you go back and read the featured write-up in the 2018-Issue 2 Alumni Review.

Dan Spanu dropped a quick line: “I ran into Ian Dunlap and Jason Downs at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where Timothy Johnson they are both stationed. I’ll be going to MonClass of 2005: Jonathan Johnson with terey, California, shortly, where I will be stahis son, Oakley, who was born Dec. tioned for a year. Felix Guerra is having a great 20, 2017. time stationed in Germany with his family.”

In other news abroad, Kurt Karpov visited Brother Rats, Thailand this past May and met up with Austin Hello again! I like to imagine that each of House. Kurt reported that Austin is doing really you has a cold glass of beer in-hand as you well and has recently moved with his wife and enjoy these notes on lazy summer evening. At three kids from Thailand to Myanmar. If anyleast that’s what I’ll be doing; I highly recommend this approach. Just a brief update this one is in Southeast Asia, they should feel free month, so let’s get into it. to give him a shout, as he knows the area well.

Andy Karnes checks in after a busy start to In baby news: Kristen and Garrett Brickthe year: “The first quarter was a busy one ner are expecting their first child at the end for me down in Charleston, South Carolina. of September. Lauren and Jonathan Johnson I started a new job in the logistics departwelcomed their third child into their family just before Christmas last year. Oakley Ryan was ment at the new Volvo Cars plant that is being born at 10:50 p.m. Dec. 20, 2017, and was a launched this year. Most importantly, though, healthy 8 pounds, 4 ounces and 22-and-oneI got married March 24 at Folly Beach, South fourth inches long. Jonathan still lives a busy Carolina, to the former Jennifer Walker. Sevlife in Florida with his family and recently eral Keydets were able to make the trip. Jenny’s Class of 2005: Derek Rankin and his daughter, Scarlett, with retired U.S. made it back to post (with new baby Oakley in aunt is a widow to a member of the Class of Air Force Gen. John Jumper ’66 on tow) for a track and field reunion. My calcula1961 and was happy to join in the photo op. It New Market Day. was a great weekend and great to see so many tions put Oakley on track for the Class of 2039, BRs again.” which would be seriously rad, as that is Derek Rankin wrote in from the road also the 200th year anniversary of the as he was in the process of moving his Institute. Just saying... family from Texas to New Jersey. “The That’s all for now! Thanks to each of family and I have been on a small adyou that wrote in for your help. I’m sure there is still much more to tell, so please venture from Texas to New Jersey for continue to keep those updates comthe past few weeks. We will be stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, ing. Even though I only ask once every New Jersey, for the next year attending three months, don’t be afraid to reach school. On our way, we stopped by the out any time with any new and excit‘Mother I.’ I can’t believe it’s been 13 ing life events that I can relay to the rest years; it feels like yesterday, minus the of the class. We all enjoy reading them, dad bod and gray hair!

Class of 2005: Andy Karnes and his bride, Jennifer (formerly and you make my job that much easier.

“It was a fantastic visit. Hotter than Walker), together with Nate Gilbert ’04, Will DeShazor, Ben As always, stay safe and be well. hell, but we had lunch with my mentor Melton, Lawton Way, Jay Coleman, Trisha Sweetser (widow Rah Virginia Mil, of Barry Smith ’61) Ryan King and Billy Karnes ’76. and friend, Scott Belliveau ’83, attended Tom Hardinge The Alumni Association website is showing us slated for the first fall reunion weekend in 2019, but we don’t have a specific date yet.

Take care! Be safe, and keep in touch!

Scott Campbell

2005

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2006

Andrew Upshaw

Hey, Everyone, Hope you’re all having a great summer! Thanks for all the great pictures and updates this quarter!

I’ll be heading out to U.S. Army Europe Headquarters in Wiesbaden, Germany, so if anyone is in the area, please look me up! Rah Virginia Mil! Brian Lennon: “Hope you’re doing well out in Kansas. A family friend just got his appointment to VMI, so it’s been on my mind a lot recently. It’s

Class of 2006: Dan Rogers with his wife, Audrey, and daughter, Adeline Maria (provisional appointment for the Class of 2040).

Class of 2006: Nate Parsons with Shawn Riley ’13 on St. Patrick’s Day in Little Rock, Arkansas.

Class of 2006: Nate Parsons with Tom Bradford at Little Rock Air Force Base.

been a long while since I sent in an update, so I figured I should be a halfway decent alum and send one in. I quit my full-time job as a Blackhawk instructor with the Tennessee National Guard to start flying jets for American Eagle last year. We moved back to the Nashville area back in June to make it an easier commute to Charlotte, where I’m currently based. It’s been a good ride so far!

Good company to work for, and lots of opportunities on the horizon. I’m still flying part time in the guard, so maybe our paths will cross again soon on the military side or at some random airport.”

Nate Parsons: “The Parsons family is moving back to the Castle Rock, Colorado, area. I’ll be Denver-based with Southwest, and my reserve unit is in Colorado Springs. Hoping to get involved with the Rocky Mountain Chapter and drink more Red Leg with Todd. Below is a picture of myself and Tom Bradford at Little Rock Air Force Base. Tom is an Instructor Navigator in the 189AW in Arkansas. They teach all Army National Guard and reserve C-130 students. I was there for C-130 requalification. The other picture is of me and Shawn Riley ’13 on St. Patrick’s Day in Little Rock. Shawn is flying C-130Js and just got back from a deployment. I flew against Shawn in his formation solo flight when he was in pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base in 2014.”

Dan Rogers: “I was fortunate enough to get back-to-back orders in the same location for once.

Audrey and I are currently living down in sunny San Diego, California, flying the MH-60s. Our first child, Adeline Maria (Class of 2040) was born Oct. 22, 2017.”

Will Collier’s daughter, Ann Caroline, was born Feb. 22, 2018, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

2007

Maury Denton

2122 Liesfeld Parkway Glen Allen, VA 23060 804/921-6607 maurydenton@gmail.com

Class of 2006: Will Collier’s daughter, Ann Caroline, was born Feb. 22, 2018, in Cincinnati, Ohio.

2018-Issue 3

Class of 2006: Brian Lennon began flying jets for American Eagle out of Charlotte last year.

Brother Rats, As 2018 is well underway, I hope you and your families are doing fantastic. As I write these notes on New Market Day, I am both reminded and humbled of not only our endeavors at VMI but also the principles of the citizen-soldier that every alumnus strives to exemplify. Whether you are from the “Old Corps” or “New Corps,” all VMI alumni share the common bond of reverence to

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Class Notes champions (Pittsburgh). Tim and wife those heroic citizen soldiers that willingly Megan are expecting their first child, a followed Breckinridge’s order: “Put the girl, Aela Rose, scheduled to arrive in boys in...”

July 2018. Tim is also preparing to take On behalf of the class, Elise Woodover the family business, Gallina and worth officially accepted a resolution in Sons, an insurance brokerage based in April from T. Bryan Barton ’68, VMI Bridgeville, Pennsylvania. Congrats on Foundation Board of Trustees presiboth fronts, Tim, and we’ll be thinking of dent. Our 10th Reunion campaign raised you during our reunion. $222,254 with 35 percent class participaErin (Cipperly) Peterson and husband tion! Thanks again to all brother rats for Ryan welcomed their son, Caleb, May contributing.

8. Caleb tipped the scales at 8 pounds, My wife and I celebrated the birth of 6 ounces and measured 22 inches. All our second daughter, Scarlett Evelyn are doing well. Congrats to the Peterson Denton, Feb. 17, 2018. I also joined the family!

Watson Health team at IBM, and we Also adding to the family was Branden recently moved our family back to Rich- Class of 2007: On behalf of the class, Elise Woodworth officially accepted a resolution in April from T. Bryan Barton Delong and wife Jessie. Emma Kathrine mond, Virginia.

Everyone, make sure to keep “setting ’68, VMI Foundation Board of Trustees president. The 10th was born Jan. 11, 2018, and was the first Reunion campaign raised $222,254 with 35 percent class parthe tone” in your personal and profes- ticipation. Class Agent Maury Denton said, “Thanks again to of their three children born in the United States. Branden was also recently promotsional lives. Our class notes are fairly thin all brother rats for contributing.” this time, so please remember to keep me ed to major in the U.S. Air Force. Making great weekend in Lexington! informed so we can all stay up to date on everythe moment more special, Mike Vinacco was the A well-deserved congratulations to many of one’s key milestones. narrator for the ceremony, and Lt. Col. Matthew you who have recently been promoted from an Robinson ’92 was the presiding official.

In the bonds, O-3 to an O-4 ranking. I’d take a stab at naming Josh Wilson completed his Master of BusiMaury Denton you, but I’d probably forget someone. We look ness Administration degree. He graduated from forward to celebrating with you at the upcoming State University of New York at Oswego May reunion.

12, 2018. He graduated top of his class and was A nice crowd gathered in Savannah, Georaccepted into two honor societies. Congrats on gia, during the first weekend in May 2018 for your achievement, Josh! the wedding of Jeremiah Shenefield to the forJeremiah Sexton is doing well at Tinker Air mer Ms. Julie Krause. “Sheney” and Julie were Force Base. Recently, Jeremiah was able to visit joined by Kyle Adams, Mike Boykin, John Richthe East Coast and met up with Phil McCloskey. ardson, Devon Millson, Jake Jackson and Matt Phil is still serving in the Army at Fort Meade, Dowdy ’05. Congrats to the new Mr. and Mrs. and his wife is working on her doctorate.

Shenefield.

Evan Lyne is living in Richmond, Virginia, Joe McIntosh and family are relocating from and got engaged to Nicole Mayberry this past Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana to Buckley Air Force in Denver, Colorado. John Mark Class of 2007: The Dentons celebrated Pittman is relocating to Charlottesville to begin the birth of their second daughter, Scarwork on a Master of Business Administration lett Evelyn Denton, born Feb. 17, 2018. degree and a master’s in data science. Joining Joe and John on moving are John Arthur, wife Kathryn and children John VII (5), William (2) and Elizabeth (2 months) will end up in Washington, Robert Hill D.C., after John spends about nine weeks in Arizona. The Arthur family was previously located at U.S. Army Human Resources Command in Fort Knox. John is looking forward to meeting Class of 2008: Branden Delong and wife Jessie welcomed their third child, Emma up with our large contingent of brother rats in the Kathrine, to the family Jan. 11, 2018.

Time is flying, and we are closing in on our 10th area. Thanks for all the updates, John – much apEmma is the first of the three Delong chilReunion. If you haven’t registered yet, please do preciated. dren to be born stateside.

Timothy Gallina checked in from the city of so as soon as possible. We are looking forward to a

2008

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Class Notes

Class of 2008: Chris Nottingham preparing a crawfish boil for Evan Lyne and his fiancée, Nicole, in New Orleans this past spring.

Class of 2008: Branden Delong was promoted to major recently. Lt. Col. Matthew Robinson ’92, left, was the presiding official at the ceremony which was narrated by BR Mike Vinacco.

Class of 2008: While visiting the east coast with the U.S. Air Force, Jeremiah Sexton was able to spend a bit of time with Phil McCloskey.

2018-Issue 3

Class of 2008: Evan Lyne and his fiancée, Nicole, enjoyed a night out in Oahu last October with Stu Montgomery and his wife, Lindsey.

February. They are getting married in October 2018. Last October, Evan and Nicole had the chance to visit Stu Montgomery and his wife, Lindsey, in Oahu, Hawaii, where Stu is stationed with the Navy. Evan and Nicole have also been spending time with Matt Kokal and wife Rachel, who moved to Richmond in July 2017. Matt is working in sales for a medical testing laboratory.

This past spring, Evan and Nicole also spent some time with Chris Nottingham in New Orleans, where Chris is working as a sommelier at a few restaurants, including the Commander’s Palace. While in New Orleans, Chris treated Evan and Nicole to a huge crawfish boil.

Clinton Adams enters his first class note to mention his lovely family – wife Christine and two boys, Nate and Alex – whom he misses very much. He is currently aboard the USS Iwo Jima flying the MV-22B for his third Marine Expeditionary Unit deployment. The third time is not the charm for MEUs. Also representing the Institute on this deployment are Joshua Daly ’09, Robert Hindle ’10 and Nicolette Huntley ’17. Clinton is looking at future opportunities outside of the Marines starting with applying for a Coast Guard transition. We will see what the future holds.

Lauren, Addyson and I were able to visit Lexington in late April for the annual alumni rugby match. The event was well attended, both by playing and observing alumni. Joining me on the field were Kyle Adams, Brandon “Ox” Bryant, Justin Tammelin ’09, Dan Hingley ’09, Sean Hingley ’07 and Anthony Menas ’07, as well as one of our rats, Travis Woods ’11. I also was able to spend time with Col. Tom Timmes ’92, who was at Penn State working on his doctorate while I was working on my master’s, and Joe Irby ’85.

I was also able to work with Eric Hunter to iron out some of the details on our reunion. We are

very lucky to have a brother rat who works within the Alumni Association.

We were also lucky enough to be joined by Matt Mitchell, wife Arlene-Raquel and daughter Ava in early April as we celebrated Addyson’s first birthday. Matt and family are headed to Fort Leavenworth for a year while Matt attends schooling associated with his promotion to major. It’s my understanding we should have quite a few BRs in the area.

2009

Bradley Simpson

Brother Rats: I hope this edition this of the Review finds you and your families well. I had a great time catching up with all of you through the emails and messages I have gotten.

Rick Frantz emailed me to let me know he and his wife, Kate, moved to Kalamazoo, Michigan, this past fall after he left active duty Air Force.

Rick finished up a second master’s degree to change career paths to cyber security. Rick also took a position with the Air National Guard. If that all wasn’t enough, they welcomed their first child, a daughter, into the family. Zélie Frantz was born April 24, 2018. She came in at a happy and healthy 8 pounds, 2 ounces. She is a happy, healthy, ball of fire and definitely with a little VMI spirit in her.

Alexander Brush emailed me from their corner of the Pennsylvania coal region. Alex and wife Rebecca gave birth to their son, Luke, Feb. 25, 2018. Both Luke and Rebecca are happy and

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Class Notes Virginia. Nick recently bought a motorhealthy. Alex added that their dog and other child are not as happy. Kinley, Alex’s cycle and told me he loves the feel of the daughter, loves her newfound interest in wind in his face, as he wears a full face art, taking after her namesake Georgianna helmet cruising sub-25 mph in his neighBrush (Mimi) and coloring their driveway borhood; he’s quite the adrenaline junkie. with chalk almost every day.

“Sean Peterson and wife Sam are in Trent Blackman and wife Sarah gave northern Virginia, as well, but will be birth to their third daughter, Ariella Ahaheading overseas soon for a tour with the State Department. He still listens to terva Blackman, March 13, 2018, weighing in at 6 pounds, 11 ounces. rible music, most notably 80s pop, and Amanda Moore and fiancé Jeff weltries to convince everyone they’re clascomed their first child, Salvatore James sics; I guess four years in barracks wasn’t Class of 2009: Alex Kelley, Brian Nilles, Danny Von enough.

Tesoriero, April 19, 2018.

Schuch, Sean Peterson and Nick Kriz with their families Alex Kelley emailed me at the last min- on a beach vacation.

“My wife, Genevieve, and I have our daughter Madeline and added Jack last ute before the notes were due, so instead February. We live in Tuscaloosa, Alaof translating his Alabama nonsense, here is his note. “Last October, several of bama, where they recently got dial up inus headed down to the beach near Panternet with this cool service called AOL. On the flipside, I do get to enjoy relishing ama City, Florida, with the families for in Crimson Tide victories and needlessly some fun in the sun; we even had some hanging it over all other Southeastern sweet matching VMI tank tops. And Conference fans ... sorry, Brad.

I figured it was high time to send some “Unfortunately, Justin Smith was too updates out. Danny Von Schuch and his busy preparing for hibernation in Boston wife, Kate, now have two young boys, to come to the beach, but he did send us a Luke and Grant, and are living in northpic of his new mustache, which is apparern Virginia. Grant was lucky enough to inherit both his father’s sausage fingers ently a lady killer up that way. Must be a and, more importantly, his love for pickweird New England thing.

“Michael Vaughn and his wife, Sarah, ing heavy things up and putting them are in Norfolk, Virginia, where Mike is down. Brian Nilles, along with his wife, still a Navy helicopter pilot. They just had Tiffany, and their son, Calvin, are still Class of 2009: Andrew Rice, Daniel Welsh ’10, Chad Simtheir second son, James, along with their in California but thinking of heading to mons ’07, Rammy Barbari and Graham Stolle. firstborn, Everett. We don’t usually text back to God’s country, Virginia. Since Mike, because it always turns the text from blue to the last time I saw him, Brian decided to display green; who still uses Androids, anyway?” his affection for ‘Game of Thrones’ by adding a Andrew Rice sent in a picture entitled “VMI sweet dragon tattoo to his shoulder. commonwealth attorneys.” I am not sure what is “Nick Kriz and his wife, Emily, with their two sons, Nathan and Henry, are also in northern

Class of 2009: Amanda Moore’s newest addition to her family.

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Class of 2009: Rick Frantz and his new baby.

Class of 2009: Alex Brush’s daughter, Kinley, and son, Luke.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes going on in the picture, but I was up against the deadline and couldn’t reach Rice to get any context. Sorry, Andrew.

Well, that about wraps up everything I have for you this go around the sun. As time allows, please let me know what is going on in all of your lives, it’s always good catching up with you all. Take it easy and hope everyone has a great summer.

2010

Cody Hennelly Garland Gray III

Class of 2010: Dave and Caitlin Messina after they completed a 70.3 mile Ironman in Delaware. It was Dave’s third and Caitlin’s first.

Class of 2010: Jacob and Brittany Robertson welcomed their son, Gunner, Dec. 20, 2017.

Brother Rats of 2010, I hope this issue of the review finds you kidding), Justin Ferrell graduated from happy and well. Things have certainly the Virginia Commonwealth University been a whirlwind for Jess and me since School of Medicine. He and Lauren will the las time I wrote; most notably, we be heading to Cincinnati Children’s Hoshad a kid! I know, I know ... many of you pital for his residency – his first choice. Abthought it was illegal or something for solutely amazing, my friend. Good luck; me to reproduce, but it turns out it’s not! we all know you will crush it!

Laugh out loud. Jess and I are so excited I recently caught up with Tim Howto announce that our baby boy, Wyatt ard; he is another newly-married KeyPaul Hennelly, was born Feb. 17, 2018, det. He married a beautiful young lady, and weighed in at a whopping 8 pounds, 4 Amanda, in a gorgeous ceremony on the ounces. He is incredible, smart, funny, perbeach in Delaware. Not to mention, he sonable, intelligent, athletic, handsome, also just graduated from the very chalstrong, gifted, beautiful and sweet – just Class of 2010: From left, Justin Ong, Fletcher Thompson, C.J., lenging Explosive Ordinance Disposal like his daddy! OK, now that I got my Danielle, Cody Hennelly and Dave Messina were the VMI con- School for Delaware State Troopers; proud dad moment out of the way, let’s tingent at C.J. and Danielle Knight’s wedding in April 2018. incredible, brotha. Best of luck to you talk about all of you. two; wishing you all the happiness life Keeping on the fatherhood theme for a little lonwere doing well. Hopefully by now they are all in can bring! ger, Matt and Catie Babcock welcomed their own a good rhythm and getting some sleep! Congrats I got the chance to see C.J. Knight marry the little Keydet into the world Nov. 25, 2017. Jackagain, man! son was a perfect 7 pounds, 12 ounces and was Jared and Lilah Lawson are yet another set of 21-and-a-half inches long. The whole Babcock new parents. The two welcomed their son, Henry gang is well. Catie tells me they are on the move to Clark Lawson, Jan. 31, 2018. He was a flawless 8 Quantico soon for Matt to attend resident Expedipounds, 14-and-a-half ounces and 19 inches long. tionary Warfare School. Awesome job, Matt; keep OK, this is the last one: Jacob and Brittany Robup the great work. ertson also welcomed an amazing little boy, GunBut wait; I am not done yet! Thomas Chapman ner, into the VMI community Dec. 20, 2017. He sent me a great email saying that he and Nicole weighed 8 pounds, 13 ounces and 20-and-a-half Class of 2010: Thomas and Nicole Chapwelcomed their own bundle of joy, Samuel Morinches long. He is certainly a beautiful little man; man’s son, Samuel Morris, was born ris Chapman, to the world March 13, 2018. When congrats, you two!

March 13, 2018. we spoke, Thomas assured me mom and baby In less exciting news (laugh out loud, totally

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Class Notes

2011

Allen McCown

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2011.

Class of 2012: Anderson Graham Neal, son of Graham and Samantha Neal.

Class of 2010: Cody and Jessica Hennelly welcomed their son, Wyatt Paul, Feb. 17, 2018. Cody noted that Wyatt has a provisional appointment for the rat mass of ’37+3. former Miss Danielle Fowler in a lovely wedding ceremony April 14, 2018, in Harrisonburg, Virginia. I am told that the farm where the wedding took place is the oldest turkey farm in the country. I make a point of saying that because C.J. wouldn’t shut up about it! Laugh out loud. Seriously, though, it was an incredible wedding. C.J. and Danielle will be moving to New Mexico this summer for C.J.’s Air Force career. As many of us know, home is where the military sends us! Best of luck to you two. The wedding gave me a great chance to catch up with Dave and Caitlin Messina, Justin Ong, and Fletcher Thompson. Dave and Caitlin are down in the Newport News area and are doing well. Dave said they are looking forward to the 10th Reunion and can’t wait to catch up with everyone. Us, too, dude! Fletcher made a 13-hour drive from Mobile, Alabama, to attend the wedding; that is some serious dedication! Fletch is an engineer, and he has been since graduation. He tells me he has met a wonderful woman, and things seem to be getting serious! All the best, brotha. And finally, Justin: I think it is better if I just say he has been living pretty well these last few years. I guess I would be, too, if I was mooching off C.J. and Danielle the whole time! Laugh out loud.

Well, that about sums it up for this issue. I hope you are all well! Please reach out to me and let me know all the crazy and exciting things you guys have been up to these recent years. I love the stories.

Mizpah, Cody

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Class of 2011: Jon Twigg in the Middle East.

Class of 2012: Lucille Myers, with her daughter, Caroline, and new son, Steele.

Class of 2011: Casey McElligott and Bri Keirstead in Bavaria, Germany.

2012

Bruce Howard

Brother Rats, I hope this edition of the Review finds you well. Congratulations to Ben Howard and his wife, Anna Seal. The two were married Dec. 30,

Class of 2012: Bruce Howard and his wife, Alissa.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 2017, shortly after Ben finished Captain’s Career Course at Fort Leonard Wood in Missouri. Ben planned to complete his master’s in civil engineering at the University of Missouri in May and move to Fort Hood in June. I wish you both the best of luck in your new marriage and move to Texas.

Lucille Myers and her husband welcomed their second child into the world April 11, 2018.

Steele Thomas Myers IV joins his older sister, Caroline, named after Carrie Wortham, into the Myers family. Congratulations, Lucille, and I wish you and your entire family the best!

Graham Neal and his wife, Samantha, recently had their first child, a son, named Anderson Graham Neal. Anderson was born May 12, 2018. I had the pleasure of seeing the happy family in the hospital the day after Anderson was born, and I have to say he is very cute. Congrats to you both, and if you ever need a baby sitter, you know I’m just down the road – plus I’m cheap!

Finally, I was able to marry the love of my life April 14, 2018. My wife, Alissa, and I were married in Richmond and currently live in New Kent, Virginia. We were grateful to be surrounded not only by family and friends but also several BRs. I just wanted to take this opportunity to say thank you to everyone who sent us well wishes on our big day.

I look forward to hearing from all of you before the next edition. Take care, and until next time!

In the bonds, Bruce

2013

John Wilson

Charles Jones

Brother Rats, This round of notes will be a short one, as there weren’t a whole lot of updates received, but I do want to use the opportunity to mention some details on the upcoming class reunion! By

2018-Issue 3

the time you read this, we’ll be about a month or so out from our 5th Reunion weekend (Sept. 14, 2018). Have you registered yet? If you want to know where to register or get further info on the reunion weekend, check out the class Facebook page. If you don’t have Facebook, feel free to email or call/text me.

If you’ve moved or changed phone numbers recently, send me an email to make sure we have your most current contact information! This will help make sure you get up-to-date information on class events (such as the reunion).

As always, we appreciate any notes or photos you want to submit for the Alumni Review. You can send them to me or John Wilson.

2014

Samuel Guidry

Taylor Floyd

Brother Rats, I had the privilege of sharing a beer with a member of the Class of 1944 recently. He told me that he was inspired to matriculate with the Class of 1944 after seeing the movie “Brother Rat” starring Ronald Reagan. He mentioned how much he loved reading about all the younger classes in the Alumni Review, and it made me feel bad about missing a few of the notes over the past four years. I never stopped to think about what the notes might mean to some of our older alumni and was always focused on the Class of 2014. Bob, I hope that you are reading this; it was a pleasure being able to talk to you about your VMI experience. Rah Virginia Mil! Sabina Montgomery recently returned from a deployment to South Korea. She recently got engaged to Capt. Travis Crites!

Chris Barefoot was recently promoted to captain and awarded his senior parachutist badge.

Jon Mattingly got engaged in March 2018.

Vincenzo Reo was also promoted to captain and is currently in the process of transitioning out of the Army.

Anthony Gagliardi is currently on his second

deployment to Iraq as part of a Counter Rocket, Artillery and Mortar Battery. Anthony currently has two semesters left in his Master of Business Administration degree program and will be transitioning to the Connecticut National Guard at the end of his current deployment. He is also engaged to be married to Jessica Larson!

Congratulations, Anthony; it sounds like you have been quite busy since graduation!

Justin Vernon is relocating to Rock Island Arsenal in Illinois, where he will be serving as a general’s aide to Brig. Gen. Laskodi, the commander of the Joint Munitions Command. Justin’s wife, Courtney, is pregnant and is due in August 2018.

Johnny Partin is still working tirelessly on keeping Hopewell beautiful.

Billy Cheatham is sadly leaving southern California and headed back to the East Coast.

I hope everyone else in the Class of 2014 is doing well, and I hope that I get a chance to reconnect with some of you before the next Alumni Review!

Please don’t hesitate to reach out! I hope that 2018 has been good to everyone and, just as a reminder of how old we are getting, our rats graduated a year ago...

To all of the VMI alumni currently serving overseas, thank you for your service. We look forward to all of you returning safely back home.

2015

Johnny McDonald

Brother Rats, Wesley Jacobs is still a POG – person other than grunt.

Henry Meredith just began a new job in Newport News, Virginia. He is now a project manager at IDSI, a company that makes training games for the military. He really loves the team.

Instead of going outside for smoke breaks, they go outside to take Pokémon Go breaks. Congrats to Henry for continuing to convince his wonderful parents that playing video games is a real job!

Nicole Blixt wishes she could go back through the Rat Line to get her second master’s. Unfortunately, she can’t and has had to settle with her

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Class Notes acceptance into James Madison University’s Physician Assistant Program. She will begin the program this fall.

Cullen Joseph and Jake Shafer are still trying to fail out of the nuke pipeline. Luckily, Jake Iapicca and the Navy still believe in them and have no plans of letting them off easy.

Hayden Whetstone will be PCSing to Dahlonega, Georgia, in June to work at the 5th Ranger Training Battalion. He also recently purchased a new motorcycle.

Cpl. Morgan Walberg ’14 was quick to point out that it is not a Harley-Davidson. Some guys just can’t leave their 3rd Class year “Mr. tough guy” personas behind.

Connor McMahon is a cop in Virginia Beach now. Casey Crimmins is almost a real cop (graduated the academy in March). Alex Mackey is a dirty recruit (and always will be to me) in Virginia Beach with goals to become a real cop. Jordan Monthie has put in his application to be a police officer in Lexington, Kentucky, and hopes to hear some good news soon. If any of the rest of you guys are cops, you have to tell me. It’s entrapment if you don’t.

Alex Monson sent in his formal request to be

Class of 2015: Garrett Rioux and wife Melissa.

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finally let out of the Rat Line. Denied. Alex, Ryan Boaz, May Anton and Bennett Dotson ’16 are all in Newport, Rhode Island, learning how to not crash warships.

Greg Oldland is going to dental school in Arizona this fall at Midwestern University. Free dental care for the Class of 2015 unless you’re big, hairy and...

Jacob Mizrahi is in the New York Police Department Academy. Krister Kniffin is in Pensacola, Florida, training to become a flight attendant for the Marine Corps. Dam Arnaiz is coming back from a deployment in the Middle East, where he has been teaching nautical flag signaling, as well as arts and crafts, to refugees for the last nine months. Brice Aaron misses Dam. Taylor Kennedy drank a case of beer by himself recently. It’s really good to see that he has slowed down a bit since graduation.

As expected, Mark Collie still wears shirt stays and rolls his hay every morning, whether he has haydown or not.

Tyler Brickles completed Army and Army Medical Department Basic Officer Leader Course in December and graduated from Old Dominion University with his master’s in environmental engineering the next day. He is now the preventative medicine officer of 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division. Tyler planned to marry Brittany Alm June 30.

Matt and Rachel Nobile were married March 16, 2018, in San Antonio, Texas.

Garrett P. Rioux married Melissa A. McGuire April 28, 2018, in Raleigh, North Carolina.

Mitch Sikes and Barry Matanic ’16 were in attendance. Best man was lifelong friend Zach Cropp. Garrett’s brother, Cody Rioux ’18, was a groomsman. Garrett and Melissa flew first class to Maui, Hawaii, for their honeymoon. Almost as soon as they landed in Maui, the volcano on the big island decided to erupt.

Logan Carpenter is now engaged to Madeleine Terry, and Thomas Corbett is now engaged to Mina Kassem.

Finally, if anyone in the Class of 2014 would actually like to have their class notes published, please reach out to a member of the Class of 2015 and they will be happy to forward them to me. We would love to help you guys like we did in barracks all those years.

This rat is a rat, Johnny

2016

Jacob Norris

Patrick Hine

The Class of 2016 seems to never stop making an impact wherever we go.

Jess Northcott recently graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master of Social Work degree and is starting a new job as a mental health specialist at the Allegheny County Jail in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Bennett Dotson was recently married to his wife, Raegen, and they have purchased a home in the Chesapeake, Virginia, area. Bennett is stationed on the USS Cole and is gearing up for another tour.

Thomas McFadden, Stephen Hupp, Joe Kluckowski and Connor Mildrum attempted to recreate our class trip to NASCAR with a few Virginia Commonwealth University alumni April 21.

Dylan Davis is keeping our aviation assets in the air as a maintenance platoon leader in Europe with Operation European Resolve.

Lexi and I have made our move to Fort Drum,

Class of 2016: Bennett Dotson with his wife, Raegen.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 2016: Thomas McFadden at a NASCAR race with Stephen Hupp, Joe Kluckowski and Connor Mildrum. and we are happy to say it finally stopped snowing at the beginning of May. As always, thank you so much for those who reached out. Hope the best for all of you; please reach out if you need anything.

Rah Virginia Mil.

Class of 2016: Daniel Warner with his daughter, Rylee.

engaged (congratulations!), moved to Alabama for Army Flight School and completed SERE training for the Army. In the near future, he hopes to get selected to fly Apaches and be station at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Post-graduation, Dan Geyer went to Fort Benning, Georgia, for Infantry Basic Officer Leaders Course. Dan graduated from there in December and is currently with his unit in Fort Campbell, Kentucky. Dan will be going to Ranger school later this summer.

Ryan Lineberry currently teaches English to elementary and middle school students in the Jeollabuk-do Province of South Korea. Ryan says the experience has been both insightful and developmental and, additionally, difficult

a slot in the Army Officer Candidate School.

Since graduation, Will Ryerson has been pursuing a career in the Army with the aspirations to become an infantry officer.

Ismael “Oco-puffs” Orozco graduated from IBOLC in December, then attended airborne school and is now getting ready to PCS to Hawaii with the 3rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division.

Benjamin Stewart Jed Harris is currently deployed on the USS Winston Churchill promoting naval maritime security and is stationed in Norfolk, Virginia.

Allison Partin recently finished her coursework for her master’s degree in environmental BRs! engineering from Virginia Tech. She plans to finI hope this finds you well; I was happy to get so ish her thesis research with Charles Bott ’96. many responses in this issue and see how Tyson McClellan was is in Port Huewell many of you are doing. I can hardly neme, California, last winter for Civil believe it has already been a year since Engineer Corps Officer School (Seabee graduation. Below, you’ll see an update training) along with Chris Davis ’16, from a dozen or so from our class; check Nate Cole ’16 and Eddie Gloeggler ’14. them out!

I know there are a few of us deployed, After graduation, Alex Chang returned so please keep them in your thoughts to Taiwan and serves as a second lieutenand prayers.

Lastly, I have been doing every other ant in AAA. Recently he has been conissue. If you would like me to change ducting combat readiness training in PingTung. Alex hopes to start his master’s Class of 2017: Tyson McClellan, Nate Cole ’16 and Chris Da- that and do every one, let me know and degree in the National Defense University vis ’16 were in Port Hueneme, California, this past winter for send in some updates! Thank you to Naval Civil Engineer Corps Officer School (Seabee training). after completing his training.

Eddie Gloeggler ’14 was also at the school. All four graduated everyone who reached out this quarter.

As always, stay safe and keep in touch!

Ben Malcolm currently works as a shift CEC training in May. Ben supervisor for his local mall security team.

Ben plans to enlist in the Army soon and head to and frustrating. He likes to think the recent peace improvements with North Korea are due Basic Combat Training in September! to his involvement.

Casey Field currently works for the DepartCarlee Anderson Zach Bugalla was working in Nashville but ment of Defense as a program analyst. She enjoys knowing that the work she’s doing contributes to currently is teaching English in Nanjing, China. He will remain in China until March 2019. our BRs in uniform!

Since graduation, Aidan White has gotten Before returning to the U.S., he plans to pursue

2017

2018

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Class Notes

Baby Keydets GOODALL – a daughter, Emma Lee Francis, to Mariah Goodall ’04 and Doug Goodall ’04, May 4, 2018.

SIMMONS – a daughter, Rowan Christine, to Danielle and Will Simmons ’04, May 9, 2018.

ARTHUR – a daughter, Elisabeth Esther, to Kathryn and John Arthur VI ’08, Feb. 1, 2018.

DELONG – a daughter, Emma Kathrine Delong, to Jessie and Branden Delong ’08, Jan. 11, 2018.

Degrees Michael R. Louthan ’10 Real Estate Development George Mason University December 2017

M.S.

Matthew M. Talbott ’11 Doctor of Osteopathy Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine June 2018

D.O.

PATTERSON – a son, Caleb, to Erin Cipperly Patterson ’08 and Ryan Patterson, May 8, 2018.

LOUTHAN – a daughter, Frances Dawson, to Juliet and Michael R. Louthan ’10, March 1, 2018.

Marriages SHENEFIELD – Julie Krause to Jeremiah Shenefield ’08, May 5, 2018.

HOWARD – Alissa Kelly to Bruce Howard ’12, April 14, 2018.

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VMI’s 10 Most Senior Alumni According to the records of the VMI Alumni Association, the people listed below constitute the 10 senior alumni of the Institute.

Please contact the Alumni Review staff if any errors are noted.

Robert C. Maling ’41 Harry J. Siebert ’42

Jan. 25, 1920

C.W. Abbitt ’41

May 25, 1920

John Y. Embrey ’42

June 17, 1920

B.W. Baker ’42

July 1, 1920

George Eng ’43

July 6, 1920

Jack N. Williams ’41

Sept. 8,1920

Donald H. Foster ’43

Dec. 24, 1920

W. Settle Frank ’43

Jan. 20, 1921

Charles B. Miller ’42

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Aug. 16, 1919

Feb. 5, 1921

VMI Alumni Review

Provisional Appointments APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

2022

APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

2029 (cont.)

John Craddock ’65

Grandfather

Beau Ratchford

Jacob Ratchford ’02

Father

Roger Craddock ’63

Great-uncle

Delaney Ratchford

Jacob Ratchford ’02

Father

Steve Craddock ’70

Great-uncle

Macy Ratchford

Jacob Ratchford ’02

Father

Kaitlin Moore

William P. Moore Jr. ’72

Father

Kristin Moore

William P. Moore Jr. ’72

Father

George W. Bishop III ’58

Grandfather

Dale S. Bishop ’93

Uncle

Matthew T. Dellinger

2030 Ezra O. Huber

2023 Jaylen T. Bell

John T. Semmel ’73

Grandfather

Molly Macioch

Simon Macioch ’98

Father

Angeline Castagna

George M. Mason ’86

Uncle

Isaac L. Seo

George W. Bishop III ’58

Grandfather

Nathaniel Fisher

Thomas Essig ’64

Grandfather

Dale S. Bishop ’93

Uncle

William A. Spencer

James Florio ’88

Uncle Lily A. Brown

James E. Brown III ’76

Father

2031 2024 Aramis M. Chavis Ethan C. Hunt

Benjamin D. Walker ’86

Father

Levi Douglas Kissell

James E. Brown III ’76

Grandfather

James A. Walker Jr. ’84

Uncle

Caelyn Pettyjohn

Erin Claunch-Pettyjohn ’01

Mother

Steven H. Walker ’72

Uncle 2032 Liam Alligood

Christopher Alligood ’99

Father

Michael Averett

Christian Averett ’95

Father

Preston Armstead

Jason Armstead ’02

Father

Tyler Berger

Clifford Seibel ’78

Grandfather

Landon Brown

Daniel Grillone ’84

Step-grandfather

Jawan Johnson

DeShawn Johnson ’97

Father

James Consedine

Kevin Consedine ’01

Father

Ryan Lee

Michael Lee ’88

Father

William Coupland

Claiborne Coupland ’57

Grandfather

Howard Coupland ’60

Uncle

2025

Lee B. Rees ’99

Father

Brody K. Bell

John T. Semmel ’73

Grandfather

Frank B. Rees ’39

Great-grandfather

Chloe A. Potter

Jacob M. Abell ’99

Father

Charles J. Holt ’909

Great-great-

Jonathen Widener

Christian D. Craft ’98

Uncle

Anneston D. Rees

2026

great-uncle 2033

2027

Drew H. Kissell

James E. Brown III ’76

Grandfather

George Ritchie

Richard Reisch ’82

Grandfather

Christopher Reisch ’79

Uncle

David S. Collie ’84

Grandfather

Bryar G. Bell

John T. Semmel ’73

Grandfather

Gavin Morris

Claiborne Coupland ’57

Grandfather

Howard Coupland ’60

Great-uncle

2034

Lee B. Rees ’99

Father

Nathaniel Collie

Frank B. Rees ’39

Great-grandfather

Jacob S. Collie ’09

Father

Charles J. Holt ’909

Great-great-

Mark A. Collie ’15

Uncle

James E. Gillette

James T. Gillette III ’67

Great-uncle

Quinn Riccobono

Victoria Ortiz ’03

Aunt

Preston R. Tittermary

Michael Tittermary ’05

Father

Mark Prentice ’74

Grandfather

Thomas H. Williams Sr. ’62

Grandfather

Charles W. Keblusek ’67

Grandfather

Scott E. Keblusek ’01

Father

Carter S. Rees

great-uncle 2028 Teagan Fallon

William Fallon ’98

Father

2029

2035

William C. Fallon

William Fallon ’98

Father

Edward C. Newton VI

John T. Newton ’97

Uncle

David A. Bates Sr. ’98

Cousin

2036

David M. Colonna ’78

Great-uncle

Hannah E. Keblusek

George B. Colonna Jr. ’44

Great-grandfather

2018-Issue 3

Morgan K. Williams

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Provisional Appointments APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

Thomas H. Williams Sr. ’62 Grandfather

Ellett K. Nederostek

2037 Teodoro Baudassi

Charles W. Bush

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

2039 (cont.)

2036 (cont.)

Hunter M. Williams

APPOINTEE’S NAME

Harold D. Hamner Jr. ’48B

Great-grandfather

Harold D. Hamner III ’84

Great-uncle

John W. Burton Jr. ’70

Cousin

Robert E. Gleason ’76

Grandfather

Nathan C. Hamner ’75

Great-uncle

Michael Gleason ’83

Uncle

Joseph H. Sydnor ’46

Cousin

Robert W. Gleason ’45

Great-grandfather

James A. Sydnor ’47

Cousin

Joseph E. Bush ’65

Great-uncle

James Volosin ’04

Father

Brad Beckner ’07

Uncle

William Volosin

David T. Bush ’69

Grandfather

Elizabeth E. Hopkins

Wesley R. Hopkins ’07

Father

Madison L. Mitchell

Matthew S. Mitchell ’02

Father

2040

Alexander J. Mitchell ’50B

Grandfather

Evelyn Boylan

Edward Boylan ’81

Grandfather

Richard Reisch ’82

Grandfather

Samuel M. Chapman

Thomas Chapman ’10

Father

Christopher Reisch ’79

Uncle

Laura Custer

Peter Walters ’73

Grandfather

David S. Clarke ’83

Grandfather

John Walters ’66

Great-great-uncle

Benjamin R. Clarke ’15

Uncle

Thomas Rademacher ’83

Great-uncle

Nathan I. Dexter

Thomas J. Hickey ’68

Grandfather

Wyatt P. Hennelly

Cody J. Hennelly ’10

Father

Peter Ritchie Olivia S. Clarke

2038 Gweneth Fallon

William Fallon ’98

Father

Jemma B. Hissem

Rick Hissem ’74

Grandfather

Matthew R. Jackson

Terrell Y. Jackson ’04

Father

Vivian J. Hopkins

Wesley R. Hopkins ’07

Father

Hosea S. Keblusek

Charles W. Keblusek ’67

Grandfather

Asher B. Kupsick

Bland Guthrie ’67

Grandfather

Scott E. Keblusek ’01

Father

Frances D. Louthan

Michael R. Louthan ’10

Father

Richard J. Cabaniss ’70

Grandfather

Frank G. Louthan Jr. ’41

Great-grandfather

Robert W. Cabaniss (Hon.)

Great-grandfather

Charles M. Louthan ’75

Grandfather

John W. Humphries ’01

Cousin

Frank G. Louthan III ’68

Great-uncle

Yu Zhang ’03

Father

B. Richard Hill ’68

Great-uncle

John L. Haithcock ’81

Great-uncle

Robert P. Louthan ’82

Great-uncle

Turner R. McKenzie

Parker Zhang

2039 Chase Bailey ’11

Father

John C. Barnard ’12

Uncle

Jordan Bailey ’14

Uncle

Frank G. Louthan IV ’91

Cousin

James B. Barnwell

Allen M. Barnwell Jr. ’67

Grandfather

C. Blake Louthan ’14

Cousin

Silas M. Clarke

David Clarke ’83

Grandfather

Mason A. Louthan ’18

Cousin

K. Barrett Luxhoj ’09

Father

Andrew C. Luxhoj ’11

Uncle

Ethan M. Bailey

Grace P. Luxhoj

Benjamin R. Clarke ’15

Uncle

Elizabeth O. Glidewell

Kim Glidewell ’77

Grandfather

Natalia Grillone

Daniel T. Grillone ’84

Grandfather

William J. Luxhoj ’15

Uncle

Paul M. Hutcheson

Richard Reisch ’82

Grandfather

Francis R. Pizzaro

Patrick R. Pizzaro ’14

Father

Christopher Reisch ’79

Uncle

Henry Ritchie

Richard Reisch ’82

Grandfather

Matthew Maxey ’02

Father

Christopher Reisch ’79

Uncle

James A. Maxey ’03

Cousin

Palmer A. Roberts

Burt Palmer ’67

Grandfather

Easley L. Moore Jr. ’65

Grandfather

Benjamin C. Threshie

James E. Brown III ’76

Grandfather

Julia M. Maxey Margarita A. Moore-Bravo

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VMI Alumni Review

Taps Lloyd L. Leech Jr. ’42

Barclay C. Martin ’45

Retired U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Lloyd Lorenzo Leech Jr. ’42 of Windcrest, Texas, died March 23, 2018. He was 98.

Leech matriculated from Arlington, Virginia, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He also earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Illinois.

He is survived by his son, Col. James J. Leech ’78 (Maria Carmen); daughter, Jane L. Brooke; 10 grandchildren; and 10 great-grandchildren.

Leech was preceded in death by his wife, Virginia Stiles Leech; son, Lloyd L. Leech III ’66, who died Jan. 20, 2011; father, Lloyd L. Leech ’913, who died April 26, 1951; and uncle, James C. Leech ’921, who died Aug. 18, 1951.

Barclay Cluck Martin ’45 of Chapel Hill, North Carolina, died Feb. 2, 2018. He was 94.

Martin matriculated from Little Rock, Arkansas, and attended VMI for two years.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; daughters, Betsy Culbertson (John), Susan Martin (Lars Engstrom) and Laurie Martin; step-children, Edward, Robert and Elisabeth Johnson; five grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and seven step-grandchildren.

Harry Pincus Jr. ’46

Harry Pincus Jr. ’46 of Norfolk, Virginia, died April 19, 2018. He was 93.

Pincus matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and spent less than one year at VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Michigan.

Gordon A. Smith ’43 He is survived by his children, Paul B. PinGordon Anderson Smith ’43 of Mundelein, cus (Kjersti Gjertsen), Finn D. Pincus, Alex Illinois, died Feb. 22, 2018. He was 97.

Smith matriculated from Grayslake, Illinois, H. Pincus (Susan), Ingeresa Pincus Friedman (Brian) and Kari E. Pincus; grandchildren, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Hannah Gjertsen Pincus, Sigrid Pincus electrical engineering from VMI. Gjertsen, Nora Pincus Gjertsen, Erin E. He was preceded in death by his brother, Morse Pincus, David A. Pincus, Anna-Britta PinAnderson. cus, Neal M. Friedman and Cole Verne E. Chaney Jr. ’45 B. Friedman; step-children, Jimmy Verne Edward Chaney Jr. ’45, M.D., Robinson (Amy) and Nancy Rogers of Rumson, New Jersey, died Feb. 1, (Chris); step-grandchildren, Anna 2018. He was 94.

Rogers, Ben Rogers and Marissa Chaney matriculated from Fort Robinson; step-great-grandchild, Wayne, Indiana, and earned Bachelor Henry Robinson; sister, Jane Pincus of Science degrees in chemistry and Silverstein; and former wife, Inger pre-medicine from VMI. He earned a Bratland Pincus.

Master of Public Health degree from He was preceded in death by his wife, Johns Hopkins University.

Iris Robinson.

Chaney ’45 He is survived by his wife, Harriett; George B. Ashby ’47 and sons, Christopher Chaney and Steven George Barry Ashby ’47 of Leawood, Kansas, Chaney (Laurie). died March 16, 2018. He was 91.

Ashby matriculated from Winston-Salem, William J. Cocke ’45 Retired Army Reserve Col. William James North Carolina, and earned a Bachelor of Sci“Jim” Cocke ’45 of Phoenix, Arizona, died ence degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his second wife, Barbara Jan. 31, 2018. He was 94.

Smith matriculated from Chevy Chase, Kaiser Ashby; daughter, Victoria; and grandson, Maryland, and attended VMI for less than Michael Mohler.

Ashby was preceded in death by his first wife, two years. He earned a Bachelor of Science Rilye Toi Ashby. degree from the University of New Mexico.

He is survived by his sons, William Snowden (Joan Gale) and David St. Pierre Snowden Samuel M. Hairston ’47 (Nancy); daughter Elizabeth Sturm (MatThe Hon. Samuel McCabe Hairston ’47 of thew); seven grandchildren; and one great- Chatham, Virginia, died April 11, 2018. He grandchild. was 91.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Hairston matriculated from Stuart, Virginia, Betty, and second wife, Inez. and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in

2018-Issue 3

civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from Washington and Lee University.

He is survived by his sons, Marshall Stuart Hairston ’87 (Jennifer) and Henry Hairston (Patty); daughters, Caroline English, Katherine LaRosa and Elizabeth Steere; sons-in-law, Paul X. English ’73 and Stephen LaRosa; grandchildren, Katherine English Holt, Sara English Beckett, Mary English Passmore, Stuart LaRosa, Caroline LaRosa (Graham), Richard Steere (Eryn), Sam Hairston, Marshall Hairston, William Hairston and Thomas Hairston; great-grandchildren, Bradley Steere, Henry Holt, Morgan Holt, Andrew Steere, Michael Beckett and Leo Duffy LaRosa; and brother, Thomas Fleet Hairston (Marie).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Elizabeth Hunter Hairston, and brother, Marshall Smith Hairston.

William B. Izard ’47 William Bolling Izard ’47 of Copper Hill, Virginia, died Feb. 16, 2018. He was 91.

Izard matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and attended VMI for less than two years. Izard earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Christy; sons, William Izard Jr. and James Izard II; daughters, Sarah West (Hank) and Margaret Valentine (Massie); step-children, Allen Crookenden (Laurie) and Ian Crookenden Jr. (Angie); grandchildren, Sarah, Anna (Britt) and Henry West, Massie, Sazshy and Will Valentine, and Bolling, Eliza and Sally Izard; and step-grandchildren, Alex (Chad), Collin, Hadley and Addison Crookenden.

Izard was preceded in death by his first wife, Sarah; and brother, James Izard Jr.

Jorge F. Sarmiento Sr. ’47 Jorge Fernando Sarmiento Sr. ’47 of Lima, Peru, died Sept. 16, 2017. He was 90.

Sarmiento matriculated from Washington, D.C., and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Delia.

Robert L. Williamson ’48A Robert Lynn Williamson ’48A of Alexandria, Virginia, died Feb. 6, 2018. He was 92.

Williamson matriculated from Vinton, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his children, John, Robert

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Taps (Candice), Charlotte Goering (Robert), Penelope Cottrell and Mary Wilson (Steve); grandchildren, Stephanie Hogue (Sotiris), Christopher Hogue (Jennifer), John Cottrell, Ben Williamson (Catherine), Sara Marie Williamson, Nathan Williamson, Will Wilson, Spencer Wilson and Natalie Wilson; great-grandchildren, Henry Cottrell, Andreas Pagdadis, Nikolas Pagdadis, Emmanuella Pagdadis, Luke Williamson and Norah Williamson; brother, Frank Williamson (Hilda); and sister, Barbara Jean Boley.

William W. Kelly ’50B William Watkins “Bill” Kelly ’50B, Ph.D., of Atlanta, Georgia, died April 17, 2018. He was 89.

Kelly matriculated from Big Stone Gap, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Duke University.

He is survived by his sons, Bill (Cathie), Blair (Laurie) and Greg (Anne); grandchildren, Thomas, Stuart, Austin, Carter, Jack, Grant, Hannah, Morgan and Julia; and brother, John (Helen).

He was preceded in death by his second wife, Catherine Messer.

William E. Sacra Jr. ’50B William Emmett Sacra Jr. ’50B of Quinton, Alabama, died April 12, 2018. He was 89.

Sacra matriculated from Rapidan, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He also earned a Master of Science in electrical engineering degree from Rutgers University.

He is survived by his wife, Helen; daughters, Cheryl Sacra-Paden (Charles), Barbara Burnett (Joel) and Jeanne Moxley (David); step-children, Barry Roy (Abbie), Roxanne Bailey (Terry) and Derrick Roy (LuAnn); grandchildren, Matthew, Amanda, Dustin and Jason Paden, and Amelia Burnett; step-grandchildren, Mallory Parker (Chase), Mason Bailey (Jayde), Jonathan Roy, Jake Roy and Jack Roy; step-great-granddaughters, Sophie and Alice Parker; sisters-in-law, Sigrid Sacra and Ethel Sacra; and brother-in-law, Bill Sharp.

He was preceded in death by his son, Robert Alan Sacra ’83, who died Oct. 6, 2014; and siblings, Louise Lansdale, Kenneth Sacra, Richard Sacra and Margaret Sharp.

Dillard W. Tisdale ’50B Dillard Webb Tisdale ’50B of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, died March 6, 2018. He was 89.

Tisdale matriculated from Asheville, North

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Carolina, and spent one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Becky; son, Ryland D. Tisdale; daughter, Ellen Pfaff (Steve); grandson, Garrett Pfaff; and great-grandson, Cole Pfaff.

Tisdale was preceded in death by his son, Robert Tisdale; and brothers, retired U.S. Air Force Col. James Tisdale, George M. Tisdale and Thomas Harrison Tisdale.

Charles B. Coulbourn Jr. ’52 Charles Button Coulbourn Jr. ’52 of Rolling Hills Estates, California, died Feb. 14, 2018. He was 86.

Coulbourn matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Georgia Institute of Technology.

He is survived by his wife, Sigrid Coulbourn; daughters, Anna Wood and Kathryn Kerr (Adam); grandchildren, Charlie and Anna Wood and Paul, Christina and Jonathon Kerr; and brother, Thomas E. Coulbourn ’62.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles B. Coulbourn ’910, who died Dec. 16, 1973; and uncle, Daniel L. Coulbourn ’913, who died July 13, 1979.

Alvin J. Marchand Jr. ’52 Alvin Joseph “A.J.” Marchand Jr. ’52 of Jennings, Louisiana, died March 19, 2018. He was 88.

Marchand matriculated from East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his children, Michelle Oustalet (Jimmy), Michael Marchand and Andre’ Caldwell (Bill); grandchildren, Brian Oustalet (Alison), Darren Oustalet (Tonia), Margaux Oustalet (Graham), Brandon Marchand (Francis), Bill Caldwell III (Casey), David Caldwell, Blake Caldwell and Justin Caldwell; and great-grandchildren, Grace, Greta, Grant, James, Camille, Olivia, William and Amelia.

Marchand was preceded in death by his wife, Gaynell; son, Al Marchand; and brother, Jerry Marchand.

Clarence G. Redman Jr. ’52 Clarence George Redman Jr. ’52, of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, died March 12, 2018. He was 87.

Redman matriculated from Blytheville, Arkansas, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in

civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Harriet; daughter, Laurie Popowycz (Michael); son, Jay Redman; and grandchildren, Jennifer, Nicholas and Katherine Popowycz.

Redman was preceded in death by his brother, Wilbur Redman, and sister, LaVonne Redman.

William R. Horne Jr. ’53 Captain William Russell “Buddy” Horne Jr. ’53 of Chuluota, Florida, died April 11, 2018.

He was 86.

Horne matriculated from Homestead, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Helen; sons, Stephen M. Horne, Philip R. Horne and James G. Horne; daughters, Suzanne “Gussie” Sills, Loretta Paradyse, Mary Horne and Elaine Curry; 10 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Horne was preceded in death by his son, Paul Russell Horne; granddaughter, Cassandra St. Ledger-Roty; great-granddaughter, Isla Elaine Hennessy; and sister, Barbara Gene Sullivan.

Ralph G. Crockett ’55 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. Ralph Gordon “Dave” Crockett ’55 of Trinidad, Texas, died Jan. 24, 2018. He was 85.

Crockett matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his daughters, Lorrie Crockett Runnels, Toni Crockett Hillmann and Peggy Crockett Emmert; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

Crockett was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta W. Crockett; son, David Scott Crockett; and sister, Carol Fitzgerald.

Eugene G. Ferguson ’55 Eugene Gill “Fergy” Ferguson ’55 of Chester, Virginia, died April 17, 2017. He was 85.

Ferguson matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Frances Sherry Ferguson; son, Scott Ferguson; daughter, Sherry Baum (Geoff); and grandchildren, Megan and Brandon Ferguson and Lindsay and Amy Baum.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Susan Christian Ferguson.

William W. Greene ’55 William Witcher Greene ’55 of Selbyville, Delaware, died March 5, 2018. He was 84.

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Greene matriculated from Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He also earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Concord College and a Master of Science degree from Radford University.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Waggoner; children, Mary Page Gwaltney, Whitley Greene, Anna Beale Yancey (Robert), William Greene Jr. (Sylvia), Darden Greene and Robert Greene; grandchildren, Katherine Gwaltney, William Gwaltney (Jessica), Ellen Yancey White (William), Alexander Yancey, Mary Elizabeth Greene, James Greene and Cody Greene; step-daughter, Cynthia Vigdor (Robert); step-grandchildren, Michael Vigdor, Thomas Vigdor and Christopher Vigdor; sister, Ann Hodges; and sister-in-law, Margaret Greene.

He was preceded in death by his brother, James Francis Greene Jr.

Beverly L. McGruder ’55 Retired U.S. Army Col. Beverly Lettelle McGruder ’55 of Cartersville, Georgia, died Feb. 25, 2018. He was 85.

McGruder matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Stanford University.

He is survived by his sons, Mark (Terri), Richard (Dawn), William (Hey Suk) and Scott (Kathy); daughter, Winnie Garner (Ken); grandchildren, Melanie Adams (Stacey), Brian Holladay (Jennifer), Tinsley Sinnott (Eric), Richard McGruder (Victoria), Amanda Franceschi (Ben), Michael McGruder, Alexandria McGruder and Savannah McGruder; and great-grandchildren, Annaston and Grant Adams.

McGruder was preceded in death by his wife, Winifred, and siblings, Virginia, Aubrey, Thelma, Doris, Helen, Ruby, Leroy and Constance.

Lee G. McKnight ’55 Lee Graves McKnight ’55, Ph.D., of Bowie, Maryland, died April 1, 2018. He was 84.

McKnight matriculated from Washington, D.C. A distinguished graduate of VMI, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Michigan.

He is survived by his wife, Deborah Heers McKnight; sons, Jonathan A. McKnight (Justine) and C. James McKnight (Natalie); grandchildren, Clara Christine, Lucy Elizabeth, Emily Jo and Rebecca Anne McKnight;

2018-Issue 3

sister, Ann McKnight Bent; and brother, Stephen A. McKnight.

Arthur L. Poffenbarger ’55

spent two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Texas at Austin.

He is survived by his wife, Toby Jenkins Gilbert; children, Mary Burch Korth and Joe Thorne Gilbert; step-daughter, Amanda Howard; grandchildren, Henry and Oliver Ames and Heidi Korth; and sisters, Maline McCalla (Dudley) and Linda Prentice (Jimmy).

Arthur Lee “Bill” Poffenbarger ’55, M.D., of Charlotte Hall, Maryland, died April 1, 2018.

He was 84.

Poffenbarger matriculated from Dunbar, West Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University William F. Gilmore ’57 of Maryland.

William Franklin “Frank” Gilmore He is survived by his wife, Patricia ’57, Ph.D., of Oxford, Mississippi, died C. Poffenbarger; sons, John C. PofFeb. 14, 2018. He was 82. fenbarger ’79 (Beth) and Thomas W. Gilmore matriculated from BirmingPoffenbarger (Kimberly); grandchilham, Alabama, and earned a Bachelor dren, Mark Poffenbarger, Thomas of Science degree in chemistry from Poffenbarger, Gretchen Poffenbarger, VMI. He earned a Doctor of PhiRebecca Campbell and 2nd Lt. Ryan losophy degree from Massachusetts Poffenbarger ’16; brother, John T. PofInstitute of Technology. fenbarger ’57 (Susan); and sister, Mary Gilmore ’57 He is survived by his wife, Ann; Martha Poffenbarger (Bernard Gates). son, Paul Gilmore (Reid); daughter, He was preceded in death by his son, Laurence Kristin Newman; grandchildren, Charlotte Franklin “Luke” Poffenbarger.

Gilmore, Rowan Gilmore and Jax Newman; sister, Bettie Jean Withers (Bob); and sisters-inlaw, Karen Kennedy (Dennis), Connie Gauthier John L. Davis II ’56 and Joyce Young.

The Rev. John Louis “Jack” Davis II ’56 of Knoxville, Tennessee, died March 16, 2018. He was 83.

Charles E. Jenkins II ’57 Davis matriculated from Hampton, Virginia, Charles Edward “Charlie” Jenkins II ’57 of and spent less than two years at VMI. He earned Norfolk, Virginia, died April 25, 2018. He a Bachelor of Arts degree from King College. was 82.

From Union Theological Seminary, he earned a Jenkins matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, Master of Divinity degree, Master of Theology and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in hisdegree and Doctor of Ministry degree. tory from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Laws He is survived by his daughters, Beth Davis- degree from Washington and Lee University.

Brown (Lauren) and Dr. Lea Davis White He is survived by his wife, Carolyn M. (Robb); son, John Mark Davis (Katherine Belsey Jenkins; children, Morgan Jenkins (Sandi) Davis); and grandchildren, Zack and Josie White and Tricia Shotton (Dave); grandson, Jack and Theophilus and Roman Davis.

Shotton; step-children, Susan Gorog (Jon), He was preceded in death by his wife, Jeanne Blair Moore, Walter Moore (Andrea) and Claytor Davis.

John Moore (Stephanie); step-grandchildren, Jonathan, Gregory, Kelly and Colby Gorog George C. Spigener Jr. ’56 and Amanda, Erica and Savannah Moore; and George Cooke Spigener Jr. ’56 of Winter sister, Eunice J. Payne.

Garden, Florida, died Feb. 1, 2018. He was 82.

Spigener matriculated from Tuscaloosa, AlaDouglas W. Talbot ’57 bama, and attended VMI for one year.

Douglas William “Doug” Talbot ’57 of VirginHe is survived by his wife, Annette; daughter, ia Beach, Virginia, died Dec. 9, 2017. He was 82.

Virginia; son, George; and granddaughters, AnTalbot matriculated from Beacon, New York, nie Starr, Virginia Teel and Charlotte Spigener. and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his children, Beth HebenstJoe B. Gilbert ’57 Joe Burch Gilbert ’57 of Houston, Texas, died reit, Marianne Talbot (Boots), Cyndi Deppe and Doug Talbot Jr.; six grandchildren; brother, Dick April 3, 2018. He was 82.

Gilbert matriculated from Austin, Texas, and Talbot; and sister, Sue Swager.

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Taps James T. Vaughn ’57 James Thomas “Tom” Vaughn ’57 of Williamsburg, Virginia, died April 3, 2018. He was 83.

Vaughn matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He is survived by his daughters, Elizabeth Vaughn Syer (John) and Christine Vaughn Warhurst; grandchildren, Madison and Grace Warhurst and Vaughn and Virginia Syer; and brothers, Herbert E. Vaughn ’60 and Dr. John W. Vaughn ’67.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Brenda Gunn Vaughn.

Maurice B. Johnston ’58 Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Maurice Bryan “Duke” Johnston ’58 of Fort Worth, Texas, died Feb. 14, 2018. He was 83.

Johnston matriculated from Wilmington, Delaware, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. Johnston earned a Master of Science degree from Troy State University.

He is survived by his wife, Annette; son, Lt. Col. Mark B. Johnston ’84 (Tammy); grandchildren, Hannah and Benjamin Johnston; brother, Ronald Johnston; and sister, Barbara Van Blarcom.

John A. Schmidt ’58 John Anthony Schmidt ’58 of Leland, North Carolina, died April 9, 2018. He was 82.

Schmidt matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and attended VMI for four years. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Russell Sage College.

He is survived by his wife, Marion C. Schmidt; children, Cathleen Gormley (Brian), John Schmidt Jr., Theresa Hughes (Sam) and Joseph M. Schmidt; seven grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren.

John E. Upston Jr. ’58 Ambassador John Edwin Upston Jr. ’58 of Washington, D.C., died Dec. 20, 2010. He was 75.

Upston matriculated from Kentfield, California, and attended VMI for one year.

He is survived by his sons, John III, Michael, Bennett and Leland; seven grandchildren; and former wife, Barbara.

Mark A.H. Smith Jr. ’59 Mark Alexander Herbert Smith Jr. ’59, M.D., of Linden, Virginia, died Feb. 5, 2018. He was 81.

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He matriculated from New Albany, Indiana, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI. Smith earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from George Washington University.

He was preceded in death by his grandfather, Courtland Hawkins Smith ’898, who died March 11, 1952; and great-uncles, Clifton H. Smith ’861, who died Jan. 27, 1902, and Col. Francis Lee Smith Jr.’869, who died Nov. 7, 1917.

Robert E. Aylor ’60 Robert Earl Aylor ’60 of Southport, North Carolina, died April 15, 2018. He was 79.

Aylor matriculated from Washington, D.C., and spent more than three years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Joanne.

Kenneth R. Scott ’60 Kenneth Raymond Scott ’60 of Addison, Pennsylvania, died Feb. 18, 2018. He was 79.

Scott matriculated from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Pittsburgh.

He is survived by his wife, Wanda Scott; daughter, Kimberly Scott-Carl (Jeff); son, Kenneth R. Scott Jr. (Melanie); grandchildren, Kaitlin and Hannah Carl; and brother, Jim Scott (Peggy).

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Linda Lee Scott; sister, Melda Lee Duxbury; brother, John E. Scott Jr.; sister-in-law, Jean Scott; and brother-in-law, John Duxbury.

He was preceded in death by his brother, William J. Gootee.

Richard A. Nickel Sr. ’64 Richard A. “Dick” Nickel Sr. ’64 of Alison Park, Pennsylvania, died April 16, 2018. He was 75.

Nickel matriculated from Glenshaw, Pennsylvania. A distinguished graduate of VMI, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. Nickel earned a Master of Science degree from Carnegie Mellon University.

He is survived by his wife, Carole; sons, Richard A. Nickel Jr. (Donna), James P. Nickel (Karen) and Robert C. Nickel ’91 (Betsy); grandchildren, Andrew, Mara, Brian, Kevin, Benjamin, Jackson, Daniel, Marguerite and Molly Nickel; and siblings, Diane Casey (Ed) and James J. Nickel (Kim).

Joseph W. Nichols ’65 Joseph William Nichols ’65 of Clover, South Carolina, died Feb. 14, 2018. He was 76.

Nichols matriculated from Arlington, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the American Graduate School of International Management.

He is survived by his wife, Holly Nichols; daughter, Lora Nichols May (Ryan); grandchildren, Grace and Cameron May; and sister, Patricia Anne Nichols.

Chalmers T. Crump ’66

David A. Gootee ’63

Chalmers Terry Crump ’66 of Marietta, Georgia, died April 3, 2018. He was 73.

Crump matriculated from Miami, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Pendleton Butler Crump; sons, Hilliard Crump (Heather) and Edward Crump (Alison); grandchildren, Bennett, Haven, Sutton, Carolyn and Margaret Crump; and brother, Stephen Douglas Crump.

David Allen “Dave” Gootee ’65 of Seaford, Virginia, died March 15, 2018. He was 77.

Gootee matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He also earned a Master of Arts degree from the University of Northern Colorado.

He is survived by his children, Clara Gootee Arnold, Page Gootee Byrne, Helen Gootee Spencer and Sarah Gootee; son-in-law; seven grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; and six brothers-in-law.

David Schearer Dunkle ’66 of Birmingham, Alabama, died April 17, 2018. He was 73.

Dunkle matriculated from Meadville, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Master of Laws degree from Georgetown University.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn Dunkle; children, Jack (Sandra), Charles (Katie), Carolyn

Robert E.L. Huddle III ’61 Robert Edward Lee Huddle III ’61 of Indian Valley, Virginia, died April 16, 2018. He was 78.

Huddle matriculated from Wytheville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

David S. Dunkle ’66

VMI Alumni Review

Taps (Cory) and Henry; grandchildren, Sophia, Nora and Isabella; step-children, Robert Gibson Jr. (Tracy), Kevin Gibson (Kristin) and Sara Floyd; and step-grandchildren, Calvin, Greg, Madison, Tanner and Harper.

He is survived by his father, Lewis Alexander Boggs IV; brothers, James Boggs and Robert Boggs; and daughters, Alexis Potaman and Ashtyn Boggs.

George M. Brooke III ’67

Amo Frank Judd III ’69 of Cleveland, Ohio, died April 11, 2018. He was 71.

Judd matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. Judd is survived by his wife, Margy Judd, and brothers, Bob Judd (Raylene) and David Judd (Susan).

He was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Judd.

Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. George Mercer Brooke III ’67 of Lexington, Virginia, died March 27, 2018. He was 73.

Brooke matriculated from Lexington, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree in history from Georgetown University. Brooke was an adjunct professor in VMI’s history department from 2005-12.

He is survived by his wife, Jane Leech Brooke; mother, Frances Bailey Brooke; daughter, Catherine Brooke Hylton (Stuart); son, George Mercer Brooke IV ’94 (Erika); grandchildren, Emily Jackson, Grace Hylton, Elise Brooke, Emma Brooke, John Brooke and Philip Brooke; and sister, Marion Brooke Carson (Charles).

Thomas R. Coughenour ’67 Thomas Robbins Coughenour ’67 of North Augusta, South Carolina, died March 24, 2018. He was 73.

Coughenour matriculated from Connellsville, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Betty W. Coughenour; sons, Tim Coughenour (Heather) and Todd Coughenour (Leigh); grandchildren, Heidi, Sam, Cameron, Kaitlyn and Miranda Coughenour and Jordan Hamons; great-grandchildren, Emmalee Oxendine, Landon Ready, Kaylee Oxendine and Braydon Hamons; and step-daughter, Julie Owens.

Jesse H. Perdue Jr. ’67 Jesse Harold Perdue Jr. ’67 of Roanoke, Virginia, died March 18, 2018. He was 73.

Perdue matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University.

Perdue is survived by his wife, Barbara Greenwood Perdue; sister, Linda Perdue Davis (Galen); and brother, Gary Perdue (Debbie).

Lewis A. Boggs V ’69 Lewis Alexander “Alec” Boggs V ’69 of Calexico, California, died Feb. 18, 2018.

Boggs matriculated from Petersburg, Virginia, and attended VMI for four years.

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Amo F. Judd III ’69

James E. McHugh ’69 James Edward McHugh ’69 of Gilbert, Arizona, died Dec. 8, 2017. He was 70.

McHugh matriculated from Alexandria, Virginia, and spent one year at VMI. He is survived by his sister, Nancy McHugh.

Hugh H. Tompkins ’69 Hugh Harrison Tompkins ’69 of Bethesda, Maryland, died April 18, 2018. He was 71.

Tompkins matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Constance Tompkins; children, Candice (Ned), Laura (Greg), Elizabeth (Dave) and Mary (Danny); and 10 grandchildren.

Tompkins was preceded in death by his father, William F. Tompkins ’933, who died Nov. 15, 1997.

George M. Bach ’70

Kardian is survived by his wife, Barbara; son, Stuart Kardian; daughter, Stacey Brooks (Allen); brothers, Joseph Kardian (Carole) and Frank Kardian (Barbara); sister, Jean Wells (Larry); and in-laws, Charlotte and Horace Needham, Sondra and Henry Morgan and Sonny and Susan Rea.

O. Raymond Martin V ’71 O. Raymond Martin V ’71 of Sun City Center, Florida, died Jan. 31, 2018. He was 68.

Martin spent one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Dee; sons, Brian C. Martin ’97 and Lt. Cdmr. Matthew V. Martin ’00 (Wendy); grandchildren, Hayley Furey and Allison and Henry Martin; sister, Kaddi Lewis (Russ); and brothers, Charles Martin (Loretta) and John Martin (Debbie).

Edward C.A. Wachtmeister ’71 Edward Carl Axel Wachtmeister ’71 of Warrenton, Virginia, died April 26, 2018. He was 70.

Wachtmeister matriculated from Warrenton, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Karen Weir Wachtmeister; sons, Erik Wachtmeister (Christie) and Carl Wachtmeister; grandchildren, Elina, Sylvie and Anna Wachtmeister; sisters, Linda Wachtmeister (Robert Strini) and Marianne Adair; and brother, Hans Wachtmeister ’67 (Anne Marie).

Philip A. Lynch ’73 Philip Andrew Lynch ’73 died Oct. 10, 2016.

Lynch matriculated from Loudonville, New York, and spent four years at VMI.

George Martin Bach ’70 of Brandywine, Virginia, died March 24, 2018.

A. Powers Jr. ’73 Wachtmeister Maurice He was 70.

Maurice Anthony Powers Jr. ’73 ’71 Bach matriculated from Richmond, of Dallas, Texas, died Feb. 1, 2018.

Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree He was 66. in English from VMI. Powers matriculated from Huntington, West He is survived by his son, Benjamin Field; sister, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree Karin Atkins; and brother, Willy Bach. in economics from VMI.

Robert D. Kardian ’71 Robert Douglas “Bob” Kardian ’71 of Providence Forge, Virginia, died Feb. 12, 2018.

He was 69.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and attended VMI for less than two years. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Virginia Commonwealth University.

Powers is survived by his son, Charles, and sisters, Margaret Sos, Maureen Dillard and Elizabeth Slover.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Eleanor Kern.

William E. Rowley ’73 William Earnest Rowley ’73 of Rochester, New York, died March 16, 2018. He was 66.

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Taps Rowley matriculated from Rochester, New York, and spent two years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Mary Anne Craig Rowley; sons, Michael Rowley and Kellen Rowley (Dorissa); grandchildren, Holden, Ezra and Levi Rowley; brother, David Rowley (Cathie); sister, Kathleen Strickland (Ken); and sister-in-law, Nancy Fink.

John D. Wilson ’73 John Dave Wilson ’73 of Georgetown, Kentucky, died March 2, 2018. He was 66.

Wilson matriculated from Somerset, Kentucky, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Eastern Kentucky University.

He is survived by his children, Emily Catherine Wilson, Christina Elizabeth Wilson and David Andrew Wilson (Brittany); brother, James Russell Wilson; and sister, Laura Ann Bosworth.

Donald L. Fulton ’76 Retired U.S. Army Master Sgt. Donald Lee Fulton ’76 of Belleview, Florida, died April 12, 2018. He was 63.

Fulton matriculated from Portsmouth, Virginia, and spent two years at VMI.

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He is survived by his wife, Susan, and daughter, Jennifer.

Michael T. Laughon ’83 Michael Thomas “Mike” Laughon ’83 of Bedford, Virginia, died April 24, 2018. He was 57.

Laughon matriculated from Bedford and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Tance Anderson Laughon; son, Holmes Philpott Laughon ’17; brother, Mark Alan Laughon ’86 (Melinda); and mother, Janice Tuck Laughon.

Laughon was preceded in death by his father, Thomas D. Laughon.

Terrell Y. Jackson ’04 Terrell York Jackson ’04 of Charleston, South Carolina, died April 9, 2018. He was 36.

Jackson matriculated from Atlanta, Georgia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Jessica R. Jackson; son, Matthew R. Jackson; mother, Paula H. McInerny; step-father, James M. McInerny; sister, Allison J. Rhodes (Bart D. Rhodes); fatherin-law, Barry P. Ronan; mother-in-law, Pamela J. Ronan; and sister-in-law, Lauren E. Ronan.

VMI Family James J. Hentz James J. Hentz of Lexington, Virginia, died Feb. 17, 2018. He was 62.

(Editor’s Note: An extended obituary for Col. Hentz appears in the In Memory section of this issue.)

James W. Vardaman James W. Vardaman, Ph.D., of Waco, Texas, died Jan. 31, 2018. He was 89.

Vardaman earned a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University, master’s degree from the University of Minnesota and Doctor of Philosophy degree in British history from Vanderbilt University. He previously taught at VMI. Vardaman is survived by his wife, Elizabeth Vardaman; daughters, Bridget Ashmore and Page Cupper; and three grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Kristen Vardaman Turner; sister, Ann V. Miller; and brother-in-law, Dr. Robert Miller.

VMI Alumni Review

Sherman ’35: Oldest VMI Alumnus Dies at 104

by Jordan Whitman, Editor-in-Chief

On April 3, 2018, Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, visited Jim Sherman ’35 at his retirement home in Southern Pines, North Carolina. Sherman, who was born March 31, 1914, turned 104 in 2018 and became VMI’s oldest alumnus to date. Sherman later died May 21, 2018, and his Taps entry will appear in the 2018-Issue 4 Alumni Review.

Before Sherman’s momentous birthday in March, George Doswell Brooke ’900 held that honor. He died Aug. 23, 1982, at the age of 103 and 11 months.

Sherman matriculated to VMI from Newport News, Virginia, and earned his Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. Upon graduation, Sherman was commissioned in the Army Reserve and accepted a position in Newport News at Newport News Shipbuilding. He went on active duty at the start of World War II. He met his first wife, Betty, while stationed in Scotland, and they married in 1944.

During World War II, Sherman fought in many battles, including the Battle of Brest. He remained in the Army Reserve following the war and was later called back to active duty during the Korean War. He served as executive officer of Operation Blue Jay, responsible for building Thule Air Base in Greenland. The following summer, he was commanding officer of Operation Pinetree, tasked with constructing six Distant Early Warning Line radar stations in Labrador.

Sherman and Betty settled in Cleveland, Ohio, with their children, where Sherman served as principal surveyor on the Great Lakes for US Salvage. He formed his own company, North American Marine, in 1968. He and Betty relocated to Middlebury, Vermont, in 1984, where Sherman was able to pursue his love of skiing. He skied well into his 80s. The Shermans later moved to Southern Pines. Sherman served the Class of 1935 as class agent for 15 years, until 2010. About his visit, Brashears stated, “I had the great honor and pleasure to visit with Jim Sherman and was able to present him with a couple of small gifts on the occasion of his 104th birthday. We visited for nearly an hour and half and spoke a lot about pride – pride in VMI, pride in the Corps of Cadets

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Jim Sherman ’35, left, with Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, during Brashears’ April 2018 visit when Brashears presented Sherman with a VMI blanket and a certificate of recognition.

and pride in being a part of the tightly-knit VMI alumni body. Whenever the words pride and VMI were used together, his eyes welled up as emotions would overtake him. It is very clear that he loves the Institute and holds his experiences there very near and dear to his heart.”

Sherman’s daughter, Elizabeth, stated, “I am so extremely grateful for their continued and keen interest in Dad! Please very kindly extend my deepest appreciation and thanks to Dick Knight [’70, Class of 1935 class agent] and Thom Brashears for their devoted efforts!”

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Smith ’43, Kruse ’65: Lasting Friendship

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor

During their decades-long friendship, Joe Kruse ’65, far left, and Gordon Smith ’43, middle, traveled extensively, including a stop at the World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. Smith was in the Army Signal Corps during the war and had a hand in interpreting coded messages between President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill.

In the early 1970s, two former Keydets met each other in the depths of Chicago’s famed Merchandise Mart. Joe Kruse ’65, a new young salesman with Lees Carpet company, was being introduced to the who’s who in the carpet world.

Gordon “Gordy” Smith ’43 was one of those “who’s who.”

Kruse’s co-worker grabbed his hand to show Smith the VMI ring, while noting that Kruse had played basketball at VMI. Jokingly, Smith – a former VMI basketball player and avid sports fan – said, “There’s no Joe Kruse who played basketball at VMI.” Kruse explained that he had changed his name from Kruszewski to Kruse, prompting a stilljoking Smith to reply, “I heard of Kruszewski: When he dribbled off his foot and sent the ball out-of-bounds.”

That meeting of two Keydet hoops greats – Smith as center on the 1943 state championship team and Kruse as a guard for the 1964 SoCon championship team – was the beginning of a life-long friendship.

Aside from their common profession in the carpet industry and the obvious Institute connection, the two men soon found additional shared interests: Both loved travel and golf. The friends traveled for business – often ending up back in Lexington, since Lees Carpet had a factory in nearby Glasgow, Virginia. They loved to travel for both golf, and simply for pleasure. They made their way throughout the country and internationally, including traveling to Ireland,

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Scotland and even China, along with regular trips to Hawaii. In their travels, they played some of the world’s best golf courses.

“We added it up one time – we probably went on 60 trips together,” Kruse recalled. “I probably spent more time with Gordon Smith than anybody.” The relationship surpassed the bounds of friendship, traveling and even golf: The two became like family. “He was sort of like my second dad, and I was sort of like his son,” Kruse said. Smith, who never married or had children, was an outgoing man with many friends, Kruse remembered, relating that Smith had over 100 people attend his 90th and 95th birthday parties, and friends and neighbors would often stop by to visit Smith or bake him a pie.

As time went on, Kruse was able to help Smith during various health-related events. Kruse provided support when Smith decided to get a double knee replacement 18 years ago. Smith’s knees were hurting him, and he had decided to get both replaced at the same time. Most doctors wanted to replace one knee, then the other, since the recovery process was lengthy, but Smith decided to get both done at once, figuring the pain plus the recovery process would deter him from ever getting the second knee replaced.

“He wound up staying six to eight weeks with me at my house, because he had no family to take care of him,” Kruse recalled. “So every day, we would get him up in the morning. It was like he was in the Rat Line all over again: We would work him out. His discipline probably produced

another 18 years of his life. He was diligent, so that was a big plus for him.”

Kruse also helped Smith invest in stocks and real estate, and later with his estate planning, eventually becoming executor of Smith’s estate and trustee of Smith’s charitable foundation.

Through his lifetime and estate gift planning, Smith gave well over $1 million in support of VMI athletics, earning him a spot on the Keydet Club’s Wall of Honor. He funded both the 1943 State Championship Team Basketball Scholarship in 2006 and the Gordon A. Smith ’43 Basketball Scholarship through gift planning.

Although he was well situated financially and generous to others, Smith was “very, very frugal.

He was 97 years old and didn’t have a clothes dryer,” Kruse related. “He called it solar heat; he hung his clothes out to dry.” Smith’s frugality was also apparent in his appearance, Kruse said.

“He was very eccentric in the way he dressed.

His tie would be tied 3 inches too short and nothing ever matched. He would chew a cigar all the time. He would not smoke it, he would just eat it,” Kruse said, going on to say that to those who met Smith, his appearance was left in the dust by his personality. “He was very genuine.

Everybody who ever met him remembered him.

He made people feel unique, special.”

For Smith’s 95th birthday, Kruse brought in a Frank Sinatra impersonator, and Kruse’s wife, Kristin, rewrote a version of “My Way,” incorporating Smith’s unconventional habits.

The song included lyrics like, “I never married, but I chew a cigar,” Kruse said, remembering his friend: A true character, who indeed did things his own way and made an impact on each person he met through his unpretentious personality.

Smith matriculated from Grayslake, Illinois, and earned a Bachelor of Science in electrical engineering from VMI. After graduating, he served in the U.S. Army Signal Corps and decoded messages between President Franklin D. Roosevelt and British Prime Minister Winston Churchill that included details of D-Day’s Normandy invasion. Following his military service, Smith worked as a radio engineer civilian, and helped wire the Pacific island of Guam for electricity. He returned to the Chicago area to take over his uncle’s carpet business and spent the rest of his life successfully selling high-end carpets.

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News Charles M. “Bill” Williams ’53, Ph.D., was awarded two medals at the USA Track & Field National Masters Indoor Championships that were held in Landover, Maryland, Feb. 16-18, 2018. In his 85-89 age group, he earned a gold medal in both the 1500-meter race walk and as part of the Atlanta Track Club group 4x200 meter relay team.

Williams matriculated from Carmel, California, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in physics. He earned a Master of Science degree from Stanford University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Texas.

to run the publishing side of the famThe National Academy of Inventors ily business. His father, the late Sen. inducted Kenner C. Rice ’61, Ph.D., Harry F. Byrd Jr. ’35, headed the as a 2017 fellow, the highest level of family publishing business until 2001. professional recognition given to highByrd matriculated from Winchester, volume academic inventors whose inVirginia, and attended VMI for four novations have positively impacted somonths. He earned a Bachelor of ciety in many areas. NAI 2017 Fellows Arts degree from Lynchburg College. are listed as inventors on almost 6,000 U.S. patents. The NAI inducted Rice Harvey S. Sadow Jr. ’68 was preat their seventh annual conference in sented with an Alumni Achievement Washington, D.C., April 5, 2018. Rice Rice ’61 Award by Knox College at their 2018 has served as a mentor for numerous international postdoctoral fellows researching Founders Day Convocation held at Seymour different chemistries related to drug abuse and Library Feb. 16, 2018. Sadow is a leader in the has written or co-written more than 800 patents ceramic arts field, and his work has appeared in numerous juried and solo exhibitions in and published research papers. Currently, Rice is the chief of the National Institute on Drug galleries and museums worldwide. A vessel from Sadow’s Ground Zero series is part of the Abuse’s drug design and synthesis section.

White House Collection of American Crafts.

Rice matriculated from Courtland, Virginia.

He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the Georgia Institute of Technology.

Thomas T. Byrd ’68, chairman and publisher of Byrd Newspapers, announced that the company was bought by The Odgen Newspapers Inc., a family-owned company from West Virginia March 6, 2018. The sale includes daily newspapers The Winchester Star and the Harrisonburg Daily News-Record, as well as other publications and related websites.

Byrd was the fourth of five generations

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Sadow’s work is also in the International Museum of Ceramic Art in China; Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts; the World Bank collection; and the Bureau of National Affairs collection in Washington, D.C. Sadow was the founding director of the Paducah School of Art and Design and served as program chair for sculpture and ceramics at the Armory Art Center in West Palm Beach.

He currently creates art in different mediums and is in the process of expanding his studio space in order to add additional kilns.

Sadow matriculated from Scarsdale, New York, and attended VMI for one year. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Knox College and both a Master of Arts degree and Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Iowa.

Paul D. Fraim ’71 was named First Citizen for 2017 by the Norfolk Cosmopolitan Club.

He is the 91st recipient of the award, which is presented annually to a person who has made significant contributions to Norfolk, Virginia.

Fraim is a former Norfolk mayor and was instrumental in revitalizing the city’s downtown.

The projects he was involved with include the MacArthur Center, Harbor Park, the Slover Library, The Main hotel and conference center, the Waterside District, the Peter Decker Jr. cruise ship terminal, and the USS Wisconsin.

Fraim was also instrumental in bringing light rail to Norfolk, creating new housing developments and battling homelessness.

Fraim matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Master of Education degree from the University of Virginia and a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Richmond.

Recipients of Knox College Alumni Achievement Awards pictured were, from left, Harvey Sadow ’68, ceramic artist; Greg Duick, cardiologist; Stephen Herzog, international security; and Steve Gibson, social activist.

United States Air Force Col. Timothy K. Bridges ’79 was the 2018 winner of the Black Engineer of the Year Career Achievement in Government Award at the 32nd annual BEYA STEM Conference. His recent accomplishments include developing small business opportunities through the Air Force’s Community Partnership Program; leading energy outreach programs to the private sector, industry, the Office of the Secretary of Defense and Congress; and leveraging over $8 billion through the privatization of Air Force housing. Bridges has been instrumental in aligning systems within the Air Force,

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Alumni News moving toward modern integrated systems with less redundancy and more capability.

While serving as the senior spokesperson for the Defense Business System reform, he mentored an award-winning logistics information technology team, which won the 2017 General Larry O. Spencer Innovation Award.

Bridges currently serves in U.S. Air Force Headquarters as the assistant deputy chief of staff for logistics, engineering and force protection. He matriculated from Upper Marlboro, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Central Michigan University and a Military Strategic Studies degree from the Air War College.

On behalf of the Richmond Fisher House, James C. Cosby ’82, J.D., accepted a donation from the 2017 Dominion Energy Charity Classic golf tournament, part of the PGA Champions Tour, at the Country Club of Virginia Feb. 21, 2018. The tournament raised more than $400,000 for veterans’ charities. The Richmond Fisher House offers free lodging to families of veterans and service members receiving treatment at the McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia. Cosby is the immediate past chairman of the Richmond Fisher House Foundation Board.

Cosby matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the University of Richmond.

During the 32nd annual Black Engineer of the Year Awards STEM Global Competitiveness Conference, Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85 received the Stars and Stripes Award for his contributions to the U.S. Army’s science and research and development mission. The BEYA conference, held Feb. 8-10, 2018, in Washington, D.C., hosts several events, including the Stars and Stripes awards dinner and a career fair, and focuses on science, technology, engineering and mathematics. The conference facilitates meeting and mentoring between STEM professionals from throughout the nation and pre-college age minorities, in order to encourage STEM education and career choices. VMI cadets were among those who participated in the event.

Wins currently serves as the commanding general of the U.S. Research, Development and Engineering Command. He matriculated from Hyattsville, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from

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VMI. Wins earned a Master of Science degree from the Florida Institute of Technology.

that provides a variety of professional services to both private and public sectors. Miller is a member of the Structural Engineers Association of North Carolina and the National Council of Structural Engineers Association.

Miller matriculated from Avis, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree in civil engineering from North Carolina State University.

The Virginia Department of Transportation selected retired U.S. Army Col. Christopher G. Hall ’88 as the Hampton Roads district engineer in April 2018. Hall’s purview includes road maintenance, operations and construction in Accomack, GreensMiller ’04 ville, Isle of Wight, James City, Northampton, Surry, Sussex and York counties.

Lawton B. Way ’05, J.D., was promoted Hall comes to VDOT with almost 30 years of combined experience in both the Army and the to partner at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP’s Richmond office April 1, 2018. With ofU.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Before his selection by VDOT, he oversaw several projects as the fices throughout both the U.S. and the world, St. Louis District USACE district commander. Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP is a major global law firm employing more than 1,000 lawyers.

Hall matriculated from Warren, Ohio, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning The firm handles diverse matters for several industries, to include consumer and a Bachelor of Science in civil engineerretail products, financial services, real ing. He also earned a Master of Arts estate, and technology. degree in civil engineering from PennWay’s practice concentrates efforts sylvania State University and a Master on corporate finance, securities law, of Arts degree in strategic studies from general corporate law and corporate the U.S. Army War College. governance.

Way matriculated from Richmond, Tony D. Miller ’04, P.E., was proVirginia, and earned his Bachelor of moted to associate in Dewberry’s CharArts degree in English from VMI. He lotte, North Carolina, office, where earned his Juris Doctor degree from he is a structural project manager.

Dewberry is a privately held company Way ’05 the College of William & Mary.

On behalf of the Richmond Fisher House, James C. Cosby ’82, second from left, accepted a donation from the 2017 Dominion Energy Charity Classic golf tournament. Also present were Greg McLaughlin, president of the PGA Champions Tour, and Thomas F. Ferrell, chairman and chief executive officer of Dominion Energy. Ferrell was VMI’s commencement speaker in 2015.

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News

Elizabeth D. Camp Becomes Honorary Alumna Growing up in New England, Elizabeth D. “Lee” Camp had no knowledge of VMI. That changed one night in 1958 when her roommate at Smith College, the daughter of Sam Mason ’927, announced that they would be seeing a new movie, Mardi Gras. When Camp asked what the film was about, her friend answered, “It’s about VMI.” To which Lee replied, “What’s VMI?” Sixty years later, Jan. 19, 2018, the VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors elected Camp as the second honorary alumna of the Institute.

She now is one of only 27 honorary alumni and alumnae, people considered “worthy of such distinction, either by virtue of special contributions to the Institute or for other reasons.” Included in that group are such beloved professors as John Barrett, Mike E. “Doc” Monsour and George Piegari; John McKenna, legendary football coach; John O. Marsh, former Secretary of the Army; John A. Brodie, VMI music director; and the first honorary alumna, Mary Moody Northen, elected in 1965.

Camp’s association with VMI moved beyond the purely cinematic when she moved to Richmond, Virginia, in 1965 with her husband, the late Paul D. Camp III (son of Paul D. Camp Jr. ’924). Two children later – and after service as the vice president of the Association of Junior Leagues International as well as serving 26 years as a trustee of the Virginia Episcopal Seminary in Alexandria – she became a teacher at St. Christopher’s School in 1980. Her specialties were U.S. history, government, economics and constitutional law.

“I immediately liked the alumni I met,” Camp recalled. “They had a wonderful sense of humor, and they weren’t fazed by much. You could say just about anything to them, and they wouldn’t get upset.”

“There was something else that attracted me,” she admits. “There was a little bit of the bad boy in every alumnus – a little mischief.”

Another connection was established when her daughter, Elizabeth Camp Hanson, was an assistant professor of mathematics at VMI in the 1990s and early 2000s. Under the mentoring of George Piegari; Col. William Dabney ’61; and Charles Caudill, chaplain, she blossomed and grew. “As I watched her transformation, I thought, ‘This is the most nurturing environment I have ever seen.’”

In early 2005, two alumni who were then

2018-Issue 3

Robert P. Louthan ’82, then-VMI Alumni Association president, presented Lee Camp with the citation naming her an honorary alumna of VMI. Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies. on the VMI Board of Visitors, Bill Paulette ’69 and Elmon Gray ’46, asked her if she’d be interested in serving on the BOV. She jumped at the chance. “I loved being on the Board of Visitors. The people I served with from 200513 were all top-drawer – all extremely capable.

They had character oozing out of every pore.”

In 2007, Camp became the chairwoman of the board’s Academic Affairs Committee. The first non-graduate of VMI and first woman in this position, she helped revise the Faculty Handbook, coordinate salary rates for incoming faculty at VMI and, overall, helped accelerate the revitalization of VMI’s academic program over the next six years. Also critical to work of the Academic Affairs Committee were Dr. David Wilkinson ’67 and Dr. Reed Johnson ’53.

Their top-flight academic careers gave credibility to their sage advice, according to Camp.

She then pointed to the establishment of formal connections between various universities’ graduate programs and VMI. Such connections, Camp said, are important, because they provide magnificent opportunities to cadets which encourage them to work harder. “Knowing that performing at a certain level earns you a decent shot at admission to top-notch graduate program definitely boosts cadets’ performances.”

As her time on the BOV grew short, Camp wasn’t looking forward to ending her involvement with VMI. In spring 2013, the, Hugh M. Fain III ’80, then-VMI Foundation president,

invited her to become a Foundation trustee. “I was so grateful for that call, because it represented an opportunity to continue to support VMI,” Camp said. She has been a member of the Property Management and Gift Acceptance Committee and currently heads the Corporation and Foundation Relations Subcommittee.

As to her reaction to the honor, Camp said, “I am beyond touched by it. I cherish my family ties to VMI – to include my cousin, Donald Blanchard ’67, who died in his rat year; my daughter, Elizabeth; and, of course, the many, many Camp family members who are alumni. I count myself privileged to have known, worked with and been a friend to so many people on and off post – alumni and friends – who have displayed loyalty, courtesy, kindness, honesty and character.”

Robert P. Louthan ’82, former president of the VMI Alumni Association, informed Camp of the honor and later presented her with the citation.

“Lee Camp has served VMI with enthusiasm and distinction. Every time VMI has called, she has answered immediately and joyfully. It is a stronger college thanks to what she has done for it,” Louthan stated.

Joy is not normally a word associated with VMI. When asked about it, Camp replied, “People associated with VMI are so great to work with and respond so positively when you do something for VMI. How could you not be joyful?”

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Alumni News

Honorary Alumni of VMI The VMI Alumni Association Board of Directors has named only 27 people as honorary alumni or alumnae of VMI. Those people listed below with a class designation were elected honorary brother rats of those classes by their members.

John G. Barrett ’44 I. Russell Berkness Virgil D. Bradley Adolphus G. Bradshaw II John A. Brodie Robert W. Cabaniss Elizabeth D. Camp Frank G. Davis ’930 Edwin L. Dooley Jr. Richard H. Kemper Sr. ’930 Clark King Louis G. Kuchuris ’932 Joseph C. Knakal Jr. Baldwin G. Locher Sr. John O. Marsh Jr. John McKenna ’77 Louis F. Miller Mike E. Monsour Harold I. Nemuth Mary Moody Northen Robert Patterson George C. Piegari W. Thomas Rice C.M.A. Rogers III Fredrik W.C. Wachtmeister John E. Waller Woodrow W. Wilkerson

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... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ...

Echoes and Footprints by Harbert Alexander ’61. The Hillhelen Group LLC Publishing Company, 2017. ISBN: 9780996345842.

Available via Amazon.com, www. harbertalexander.com or by calling 713/695-3569.

Echoes and Footprints is a series of 30 stories about historic characters and events in west Tennessee.

Read about Timothy Pickering Jones who roomed with Edgar Allen Poe at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, went to Mexico to fight alongside David Crockett and rode with Nathan Bedford Forrest in the Civil War. Suffer with Pat Hitchcock, who spent 40 months as a Japanese prisoner of war. Fight with Col. Ernest Frankland against Nazi tanks at the Battle of Mortain, one of the epic battles on World War II. Use your imagination and walk down Royal Street in Jackson, where Andrew Jackson spoke in 1825, Thomas Alva Edison worked as a telegraph operator in 1865 and Jefferson Davis made his first speech in 1870 after being released from federal prison. Feel the agony of Cherokees in 1825 as they travel through western Tennessee on the Trail of Tears.

Watch Sue Shelton White as she fights for passage of the 19th Amendment or close your eyes as the Ringling Brothers comes brings the magic of the circus to town.

One story, the Armstrong raid, was used as

a 1961 VMI history assignment for Col. George Brooke and was later published by the Tennessee Historical Quarterly.

About the Author: Harbert Alexander graduated from Jackson High School in 1957 and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from Rutgers University. He served in the U.S. Army artillery and retired as a captain.

Alexander has been a banker in Jackson, Tennessee, for over 43 years. He served as president of Jackson National Bank, Union Planters Bank and chairman and chief executive officer of the Bank of Jackson. Alexander has also served as the board chairman of the Jackson-Madison County General Hospital.

In 1991, he was named the Jackson Exchange Club Man of the Year.

Alexander has written five books and has served as the Madison County historian for 23 years. He is an avid hunter and amateur archaeologist. He serves – by appointment of Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam – on the Tennessee Museum Board. He is a member of the Military Writers Society of America and has been published in several magazines, to include the Tennessee Historical Quarterly and Ducks Unlimited.

Alexander is married to Nora Dancy Doe and has six children and three grandchildren.

... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ...

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni Agencies Staff Directory P.O. Box 932 Lexington, VA 24450 1-800-444-1839

Chief Executive Officer

Chief Financial Officer

Stephen M. Maconi smaconi@vmiaa.org

David Prasnicki dpras@vmiaa.org

Chief Communications Officer Amy F. Goetz agoetz@vmiaa.org

Chief Operating Officer

President

Warren J. Bryan ’71 bbryan@vmiaa.org

T. Bryan Barton ’68 bryanbarton1@verizon.net

Vice President - Development Thomas H. Zarges ’70 tomzarges@gmail.com

Vice President - Administration Stephen E. Hupp ’84 steve.hupp@estes-express.com

Chief Operating Officer Meade B. King ’85 mking@vmiaa.org

President

Ralph L. Costen Jr. ’70 rcosten@costenfloors.com

Bland Massie Jr. ’77 super77@vmialumni.org

Chief Operating Officer

President

Thomas A. Brashears ’95 tbrashears@vmiaa.org

Asa H. Page III ’79 vmi79@verizon.net

Anthony U. Moore ’78 amor_78@comcast.net

Directors at Large

Jim E. Henry ’68 henryjejr@aol.com A. Damon Williams ’90 damonwilliams@msn.com

2018-Issue 3

Gerald J. Acuff Jr. ’71 jerryacuff@msn.com

Historian

Second Vice President

Second Vice President

First Vice President

U. “Buzz” Birzenieks ’64 bjbirzenieks@gmail.com

Historian J. Bolling Williamson ’60 bollingwmson@gmail.com

Hilbert S. Wilkinson ’94 bretwilkinson@gmail.com E. Sean Lanier ’94 av8sean06@hotmail.com

First Vice President Samuel N. Stocks ’90 sstocks@kbsgc.com

Immediate Past President Robert P. Louthan ’82 bob.louthan@veterancrowd.com

Douglas B. Warner ’03 douglas.warner1@vmialumni.org Joel W. Andrus ’04 jandrus@kemperconsult.com

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VMI Alumni Chapter Directory

Region I – Southwest Chapter Arizona Greater Los Angeles Inland Empire Nevada Northern California Rio Grande San Diego

Director: Matthew R. Hemenez ’90 Chapter President

Cleveland Detroit Kansas City, Missouri Minnesota Southwest Ohio St. Louis

lohrc08@gmail.com stephen.breheny3131@gmail.com kenny@mpowermortgage.com Bradley.maak@yahoo.com brian.k.andrew@gmail.com

Christoph Lohr ’08 Terrence S. DeGray ’04 Andre S. Gibson ’78 Lawrence M. Wood ’59 Todd E. Arris ’87

Max H. Hopkins ’97

max.h.hopkins@gmail.com

William R. Creekmur ’83

Director: David P. Loduca ’81 Andrew D. Wabish ’09 Daniel C. Young ’88 Molly M. Hastings ’13 Brian D. Skusa ’00 David C. Hagemann ’80 Jeffrey D. Vordermark ’79 J. Brent Schaufert ’15 J. Micah North ’00 David P. Loduca ’81

A. Bruno Loefstedt III ’80 R. Conor Evans ’02 Richard C. Wolffe ’78

Region IV – Mid Atlantic Appalachian Central Keystone Maryland Southeastern PA – Delaware Valley Stonewall Jackson Western PA – Pittsburgh

Terence L. Bowers ’68 David R. Nagel ’01 William H. Cather Jr. ’65 Mark P. Parton ’08 Christopher R. Jones ’96 Charles M. Rogers IV ’83 Herbert U. Fluhler ’77

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terrybowers@vmialumni.org nageldr78@hotmail.com billcather@bellsouth.net partonmp@gmail.com crj2112@gmail.com max.rogers@mobileinfirmary.org huf2000@aol.com

Director: Michael A. Kelly ’73 Stephen L. Skakandy ’01 Michael A. Ceroli ’85 Laurence B. Wilson Jr. ’62 Michael S. Anderson ’88 Ray S. Brooks ’76 George Troy Mosby ’97 Robert M. Kirby ’78 Carl B. Hammond ’00 Michael M. Smith ’73 Paul X. English III ’73 John P. Gangemi ’61

Region VII – Florida Central Florida Northeast Florida – Jacksonville Northwest Florida Southern Florida Southwest Florida – Fort Meyer The Villages – Florida Treasure Coast West Coast Florida – Tampa

jdh7374@gmail.com rphill48@gmail.com gleason@umbc.edu rickkillmeyer@gmail.com jasongruse@hotmail.com aberenbrok@yahoo.com

Director: C. Patrick Haddock ’00

Region VI – Carolinas Crystal Coast/Jacksonville Cape Fear/Fayetteville Central North Carolina – Raleigh Charlotte Club of the Triad Coastal SC/Charleston Eastern North Carolina Midlands SC/Palmetto Myrtle Beach Upsate SC/Pisgah NC Wilmington, North Carolina

bruno.a.loefstedt@saint-gobain.com conorevans@hotmail.com rwolffe@tspcapitalmgt.com

Director: H. Larry Mays Jr. ’73

Jason D. Hennigan ’99 Robert P. Hill ’08 David R. Gleason ’80 Frederick J. Killmeyer IV ’95 Jason K. Gruse ’97 Alan R. Berenbrok ’80

Region V – Southeast Augusta Atlanta Birmingham Coastal GA – South Carolina East TN – Knoxville Mobile Tennessee Valley

andrew.wabish@geappliances.com dan.young@wfadvisors.com hastingsmm@mail.vmi.edu bskusa@kforce.com dhag80@aol.com vordermark@juno.com brent.schaufert@yahoo.com micah.north@resonantsciences.com loduca@pbworld.com

Director: Patrick J. Griffin ’80

Region III – Northeast New England New York City – Long Island North Jersey

Chapter Representative

Christoph Lohr ’08 Stephen A. Breheny ’89 Kenny T. Stigler ’00 Bradley J. Maak ’87 Brian K. Andrew ’03

Region II – Midwest Bluegrass Chicago

President’s Email

Email: mrhemenez@cox.net

stephen.skakandy@gmail.com mceroli@thekratosgroup.net lbebwilson@aol.com vmi2army@gmail.com rsbr1111@gmail.com gmosby@liquidnet.com rmkirby@dekirby.com hammondcb@yahoo.com michaelmsmith5@gmail.com pxenglish@gmail.com jgangemi@ec.rr.com

Director: Blake W. Thomas ’73

John C. Nagle IV ’87 Jason M. Goldstein ’02 James D. Friskhorn ’81 Scott A. Houser ’98 Bradford T. Herrell ’01 Alan H. Vicory Jr. ’74 Donald D. Carson ’64 Robert M. Bailey ’72

jay.nagle@hdrinc.com jason.goldstein@amecfw.com vmi81@comcast.net housersa@yahoo.com btherrell@basspro.com ahvicory@gmail.com dcarson678@bellsouth.net bobngracebailey@tampabay.rr.com

Email: loduca@pbworld.com Hugh R. Hill ’85 Donald A. Noschese Jr. ’92 Stephen M. Chiles ’89 Mark A. Benvenuto ’83 Todd J. Jacobs ’90 J. Micah North ’00 Robert C. Polk ’61

Email: anchors80@comcast.net John R. Gibney Jr. ’80 Kevin P. Sincavage ’87

Email: hlarrymays@gmail.com Campbell C. Hyatt III ’65 H. Larry Mays Jr. ’73 Thomas M. Wirth ’98 John T. Pace IV ’77 Phillip L. Harris ’03 J. Mark Hennigan ’90

Email: vmitranspo@hotmail.com Raymond R. Lawson ’81 Charles C. Schoen IV ’86 William H. Cather Jr. ’65 Kevin L. Snell ’82 John H. Friend III ’82 Raymond J. Pietruszka ’77

Email: kellyvmi73@gmail.com Charles L. Toomey ’74 Ronald R. Wall ’69 James A. Sharp ’93 T. Matthew Creech ’96 Eric L. Duncan ’99 George H. Ritko ’70 F. Grey Farthing III ’79 E.D. Woomer Jr. ’73 Henry Brown ’60

Email: blaket606@aol.com John C. Nagle IV ’87 Grafton D. Addison III ’82 Wayland H. Patterson ’80 Brett R. Martin ’00 Robert M. Bailey ’72

VMI Alumni Review

VMI Alumni Chapter Directory

Region VIII – Southwest VA Chapter Lynchburg New River Valley Roanoke

Chapter President Matthew T. Vordermark ’00 Gerald B. Burrus ’96 Andrew M. Reel ’03

Region IX – Shenandoah Valley Allegheny Highlands Blue Ridge Charlottesville North Shenandoah Valley Rockbridge County Valley

James F. Dittrich ’76 Stephen J. Barcik III ’85 Michael M. Wallace ’93 William E. Kirby III ’96 Philip J. Altizer Jr. ’80 S. Curtis Johnston ’82 Hamel B. Reinmiller ’98 Daniel J. Fitzgerald ’89 Steven P. Weiss ’86 Murray F. Hudson ’82

Brian P. Duffy ’89 Russell Shun Takata ’74 James R. Farmer ’68 Todd M. Baldwin ’06 Jeffrey B. Morrison ’99

Region XII – Central Virginia Richmond Tri Cities

Region XIII – Hampton Roads

Norfolk Peninsula Rappahannock Virginia Beach Western Tidewater Williamsburg

jfdinarkansas@aol.com steve.barcik@htds2.com michaelmwallace@mac.com ktkirby@comcast.net paltizer@bellsouth.net Chewy.Johnston@hdrinc.com hbrvmi98@vmialumni.org daniel.fitzgerald@hdrinc.com spweiss@earthlink.net murfh@urbaneng.com

duffvmi89@gmail.com russell.takata@yahoo.com seattlefarmer@comcast.net todd.baldwin1@gmail.com roo1999@gmail.com

mtmikula@gmail.com samuelmattocks762@gmail.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 Richard A. Duke ’90 Gary J. Haste ’77 John L. Rowe Jr. ’66 John J. Kokolis ’96

Region XIV – Metro D.C. Fredericksburg - Quantico George C. Marshall Potomac River

troy.barbour@hcahealthcare.com weastham@carrhyde.com jim@realcentralva.com wdtvmi65@comcast.net jarvistk@vmi.edu cameronseay@me.com

Director: William R. Charlet ’01

Matthew T. Mikula ’04 Samuel L. Mattocks ’74

vmi79classagent@aol.com dtyler4@cox.net joshua.p.priest@navy.mil ed.plucinski@hanson.com rduke@hf-law.com ghaste@associatedcontracting.com jrowe66@cox.net jjkokolis@cox.net

Director: Jessica J. Schmaus ’04 Director: John D. Kearney Jr. ’00

Carl J. DeBernard Jr. ’94 Matthew R. Keller ’00 A. James MacDonald ’83

Chapter Representative Joseph W. Hutt III ’78 Gerald B. Burrus ’96 Alan G. Soltis ’79

Email:

Director: Clifford A. Crittsinger ’64/’66

Region XI – Northwest

Eastern Shore

vordermarkmt@hotmail.com bradburrus@yahoo.com reeldadx2@gmail.com

Director: Jeffrey L. Minch ’73

Arkansas Centex Greater New Orleans Middle TN – Nashville Midsouth/Memphis North Texas – Dallas Oklahoma San Antonio Southeast Texas – Houston Third Coast (Corpus Christi)

Email: dennis@nanoseptic.com

President’s Email

Director:

T. Troy Barbour ’89 G. Wayne Eastham ’76 James E. Duncan ’98 W. Douglas Thomas ’65 T. Keith Jarvis ’82 D. Cameron Seay ’70

Region X – South

Alaska Hawaii Pacific Northwest Pikes Peak Rocky Mountain

Director: Dennis A. Hackemeyer ’80

carl.debernard@dhs.gov matthew@kellermail.com macvmi83@yahoo.com

Harrison L. Fridley Jr. ’61 R. Edward Duncan ’60 James E. Duncan ’98 Kevin J. Callanan ’78 Lewis V. Graybill ’62

Email: jminch2011@gmail.com David W. Walsh ’90 Christopher J. Whittaker ’90 Charles S. Sanger ’82 Dakota W. Nicely ’15 Garry C. Varney ’76 Thomas R. Shaw ’78 Steven P. Weiss ’86 M. Douglass Payne ’73

Email: keydet6466@gmail.com Trent L. Boggs ’83 Russell Shun Takata ’74 James R. Farmer ’68 Robert L. Fricke ’78 William V. Trumpore ’89

Email: wcharlet@gmail.com Thomas H. Walton ’04 Augustus Robbins III ’47

Email: vmi79classagent@aol.com Email: sean.p.hingley@wfadvisors.com Thomas F. Wilson ’80 James A. Parsons ’80 David J. Trenholm ’70 William F. Brent ’67 H. Ali Mahan ’80 Oliver D. Creekmore ’66 Jim E. Henry ’68

Email: jessica.schmaus@gmail.com Email: kearneyjd00@gmail.com R.C. Thompson III ’74 L. Randolph Williams Jr. ’66 L. Randolph Williams Jr. ’66

Region XV – Pacific Rim Guam Taiwan Thailand

2018-Issue 3

Michael K. Scaplehorn ’13 Ching-Pu Chen ’85 Vaipot Srinual ’72

scaplehornmk@mail.vmi.edu chingpu@saturn.yzu.edu.tw

Ching-Pu Chen ’85 Vaipot Srinual ’72

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Alumni Events Sept. 14-15

1st Fall Reunion Weekend

Sept. 29

Nov. 2-3

Ride to the “I” / Parade Ground

2nd Fall Reunion Weekend

Oct. 6

Nov. 9

Career Networking Forum / CLE

Founders Day Parade Institute Society Dinner

Oct. 19-20 Parents Weekend

Oct. 20 Keydet Club Scholarship Banquet / Crozet

Post Events Aug. 18

Nov. 16-26

Matriculation Day

Thanksgiving Furlough

Aug. 28

Dec. 12

First Day of Classes

Last Day of Classes

New Market Oath Ceremony / New Market

December Joint Commissioning Ceremony

Sept. 2

Oct. 5-7 Fall FTX

Nov. 16

Ring Figure

Dec. 18 Dec. 19

December Commencement

Dec. 19

Christmas Furlough Begins

2018 Football Schedule Sept. 1

Nov. 17

Samford University

Old Dominion University

Sept. 8

Oct. 20

*Denotes Home Game

Wofford College

Sept. 15 ETSU*

Sept. 22 Western Carolina University

Sept. 29 Mercer University*

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Oct. 12

Toledo

The Citadel*

Oct. 27 Chattanooga

Nov. 3 Tusculum College*

Nov. 10 Furman University*

To see more alumni events as they are announced, visit: www.vmialumni.org/ events

VMI Alumni Review