2018-Issue 4 Alumni Review

VMI

2018 - Issue 4

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 4

In This Issue . . .

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

9

Our Alumni Serving 4

Holt ’07 Serves as Army Medicine Biochemist/Physiologist

................................................................................

In Memory 8

Gen. Ronald H. Griffith

................................................................................

Features

13

9 10 12 14 16 18

Boyd ’20: BeanBot Research Bridges Psychology, Robotics The Jackson-Hope Fund: Supporting Academic Excellence Wolffe ’78: “Let Us Play the Game!”

Cadets Performed Well at Lockheed Martin Ethics Competition Data Matters: Department of Applied Mathematics Lamore ’85: Providing Anti-Terrorism and High-Security Barriers

................................................................................

News and Updates

23 2018-Issue 4

2 21 28 32 42 47 49 160 162 169 173 174 176

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

Volume 95, No. 3

PUBLISHER The Chief Executive Officer of the VMI Alumni Agencies

CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER: Amy Goetz Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Whitman Assistant Editor: Molly Rolon 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: The Class of 2019+3 met their cadre on Matriculation Day 2018.

Inside Back Cover: Secretary of Defense James Mattis spoke to the Corps of Cadets, faculty and staff in Cameron Hall Sept. 25. Cover photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agenices.

1

Message from the Superintendent Daily, I reflect on the strength of the Corps, the depth of the academic program, VMI’s support of our nation’s military, and the caliber of our cadet-student athletes. This is not something I take for granted.

I am aware that with every gain in the unique VMI program, there are countless individuals – behind the scenes – who have provided support to help us achieve each milestone. My thanks to you for the contributions made in the lives of each and every cadet, and to the VMI mission as a whole. I hope you will experience a sense of pride in the work of our faculty, staff and cadets as I share a few of their accomplishments.

In May, we celebrated the largest graduating class in the Institute’s history as the Class of 2018 crossed the stage. Sixty percent of those graduates took the oath of office as second lieutenants or ensigns, the highest percentage to commission since 1989, when mandatory commissioning ended. Ninety-nine percent of this class either commissioned, will attend graduate school, or had splendid jobs as they departed the Institute.

In August, 519 young men and women signed the matriculation book, making the Class of 2022 the largest class to enter the Institute. This is a very strong class, matriculating from 30 states and 5 foreign countries. Sixty percent are from Virginia; 87 are females; 104 are NCAA recruited athletes, with 65 percent majoring in math, science, and engineering and 35 percent in the more pure liberal arts with a grade point average of 3.70.

Three new leaders have been selected for senior positions at the Institute: Brigadier General Dallas Clark ’99 has been appointed as Deputy Superintendent for Finance, Administration and Support. Brigadier General Bob Moreschi, a 16-year veteran of the VMI faculty, assumed duties as Deputy Superintendent for Academics and Dean of the Faculty, moving from Chair of the Economics and Business Department. And Sergeant Major William T. Sowers has brought to his duties as Sergeant Major to both the Corps of Cadets and the Institute a wealth of experience earned in a stellar 30-year Marine career.

Our academic program maintains a student-teacher ratio of 11:1. This is clearly a core-strength of the academic program that contributes to the unique success of the VMI graduate. The faculty-student bonds forged in this environment result in a commitment to life-long learning, confidence in their careers of choice, and lifetime friendships. To this end, VMI has not allowed financial pressures to increase class sizes and has continued our long-standing tradition of small classes with excellent instructors, teaching in superb facilities.

VMI cadet-athletes are young men and women who, at their choice, enter VMI knowing that they will take on a regimented, mental and physical experience far different from what athletes undergo at other colleges. Our cadet-athletes are exceptional people who are dedicated and committed to embracing all that the Institute has to offer while competing at the highest level of college athletics. Today, greater than 60 percent of the Corps participates in NCAA or club sports. There is no doubt that they will enter their careers as prepared leaders.

VMI continues to perform exceptionally well in a number of national rankings – U.S. News & World Report, Forbes, Money, Washington Monthly, and the new Wall Street Journal/Times Higher Education ranking. Perhaps the most relevant rankings for our cadets, alumni, and parents, however, are those that judge best value and return on investment by measuring cost, graduation rates, and salaries at the 8-year mark after graduating. VMI is highly ranked nationally and in the commonwealth.

So many of the accomplishments of our faculty, of our staff, and especially of our cadets are possible only because of the generous support and engagement of alumni and friends. That speaks to the great loyalty you have to VMI and to the important place the Institute holds in your lives long after you have graduated. Thank you for your enormous contributions to the nation’s military, to private professions and industry, and to your communities. It is your dedication and performance that becomes our reputation and credentials.

J.H. Binford Peay III ’62 Superintendent General, U.S. Army (Retired) 2

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

2018-Issue 4

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.

3

Holt ’07 Serves as Army Medicine Biochemist/Physiologist

by Steven Galvan, DBA, USAISR Public Affairs Officer

Capt. Andrew W. Holt ’07 with Capt. Gina Griffith, whom Holt replaced as the deputy director for the Department of Sensory Trauma at the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research. Photo by Steven Galvan.

When he graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, Andrew W. Holt ’07 accepted a commission in the U.S. Army to become a field artillery officer. For the next five years, he trained and led soldiers in garrison and in combat before completing his term of service in 2012. Holt knew that he wanted to continue serving in the Army, but not in his current position. His sights were set on his passion – scientific research.

He had recently learned through a former VMI mentor about Army medicine’s biochemist/physiologist program.

Holt was aware of the requirements to apply for the program, and he needed a Ph.D. So, that’s what he set out to earn. In 2012, he enrolled in the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, beginning a new chapter in his life. Four years later, he had a Ph.D. in physiology.

A few months before he defended his dissertation, Holt submitted his application for the Army’s biochemist/physiologist program.

Meanwhile, he was searching for Department of Defense postdoctoral fellowships in order to combine his prior service experience with his passion for research. In a roundabout way, Holt learned more about the post-doc opportunities at the United States Army Institute of Surgical Research and he applied for and was accepted as a fellow in January 2017. A few months later he learned that he was accepted into the biochemist/physiologist program and was commissioned as a captain to start his second job in the Army in June of that year.

“It has been great, and I love it!” he said.

Holt was fortunate to be assigned to the USAISR for his first active duty assignment and continue his research that he began as a fellow with a new title – the officer-in-charge in the sensory trauma task area.

He stated that there are some similarities between his two Army jobs, but for the most part, they are night and day.

“The similarities are that you work with and take care of soldiers,” said Holt. “You also have to maintain physical fitness and readiness, set the example and meet the commander’s intent, but as an artillery officer, you train to deploy and be ready for war. Here, all of that

4

still applies, but now we are focused on our mission of ‘optimizing combat casualty care’ and delivering solutions and products for the combat wounded.”

Holt’s research is dedicated to developing successful treatment strategies to restore vision for service members who suffer from optic nerve injuries. He was recently assigned as deputy director for the Department of Sensory Trauma.

That title belonged to Capt. Gina Griffith who is transferring to Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland to a deployable unit where she will continue her Army career as a microbiologist.

Griffith’s Army career started off similar to Holt’s, except that she chose the 71A program – microbiologist. After earning her Ph.D. in pathology in 2013, she applied for the program.

“When I first applied I was placed on the order of merit list for a direct commission, which meant that I was ranked on a list and if the top candidates were not selected for some reason, they moved onto the next person on the list,” she said. “I was not selected in the first round of applications, which meant that I had to wait another year for the board to reconvene.”

Griffith also applied for a post-doc position at the USAISR and was accepted. During that time, she met some officers at the Institute who helped her revise her application packet before she resubmitted it and was accepted for a commission as a captain. “My first assignment was at the ISR, which was good because I was able to continue the research that I had started as a post-doc fellow,” she said.

Holt’s and Griffith’s advice for anyone considering a career as an Army Medicine microbiologist or biochemist/physiologist is similar.

“Do your research and fully understand what you are committing to,” said Griffith. “Being in the military is a different lifestyle. It is critical to understand that a person is primarily joining to serve. When I was considering a military career, I received some great advice from a military veteran who said, ‘If you are joining for the job, you will probably hate it. Make sure that you are joining because you also want to serve.’”

VMI Alumni Review

City of Lynchburg Honors Cary D. Langhorne ’894

Lynchburg, Virginia, honored Cary D. Langhorne ’894 with a roadside historical marker in front of his childhood home in May 2018. Langhorne, a U.S. Navy surgeon, fought in the Philippine-American War and in Mexico during the Mexican Revolution. The U.S. government disputed Mexican President Victoriano Huerta’s legitimacy, which led to the U.S. seizing the port of Veracruz, Mexico. During the battle that followed, Langhorne carried a wounded man to safety while under heavy fire. For his actions that day, Langhorne was awarded the Medal of Honor. Later, he served on board a hospital ship during World War I. Pictured are some of Langhorne’s descendants and speakers for the occasion: Steven McCann; Turner Perrow ’96; James McCann; Zita McCann; Nancy Clexton Harlow; David Stokes, father of Dave Stokes ’93; Matt Vordermark ’00, Lynchburg VMI Alumni Chapter president; and retired Vice Adm. Edward W. Clexton, U.S. Naval Academy ’60. Photo by LuAnn Hunt, City of Lynchburg.

Madden ’80 Presented with Global Positioning Award

Col. Steven Whitney, director of the Space and Missile Systems Center’s Global Positioning Directorate, presented the Global Positioning Systems Hall of Fame Award to retired U.S. Air Force Col. David W. Madden ’80 during the 2018 GPS Partnership Council, hosted by the Los Angeles chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronic Association. The award honors the technical achievements of an individual who made significant contributions to the Global Positioning System. U.S. Air Force photo by Jim Spellman.

2018-Issue 4

5

Torkelson ’91 Assumes Command of Norfolk Navy Shipyard

U.S. Navy Capt. Kai Torkelson ’91, right, assumed command of the Norfolk Navy Shipyard from Capt.

Scott Brown June 29, 2018. Vice Adm. Thomas J. Moore, center, presided over the ceremony. Moore commands NNSY’s higher headquarters, Naval Sea Systems Command. Portsmouth mayor John Rowe ’66 was the speaker for the change of command ceremony. U.S. Navy/Released.

Myers ’92 Relinquishes Command at Fort Meade, Maryland

U.S. Army Col. James M. Myers ’92 relinquished command at Fort Meade, Maryland, July 27, 2018. Attending the ceremony were U.S. Army Capt.

John Arthur ’08, Tom Ripley ’93, Myers, Coach Doug Bartlett and John Arthur ’79.

6

VMI Alumni Review

Moses ’95 Changes Command at Fort Bragg, North Carolina

Col. Brad Moses ’95 relinquished command of the 3rd Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, June 21, 2018, to Col. Nathan J. Prussian. Moses was assigned to the group in March 2002, when the unit assumed responsibilities for Afghanistan special forces operations. Recently, the unit has also begun working against terrorism in west and north Africa. Moses previously served as a team leader, company commander and battalion commander. His next assignment is as chief of staff for the U.S. Army Special Operations Command.

Alumni Complete Military Schooling

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Ben Bird ’95, U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Tim Hough ’98, U.S. Army Col. Mike Obadal ’96, U.S. Army Col. Joe King ’88, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Mike Belenky ’97 and U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Ben Venning ’96 at the National Defense University at Fort McNair, Washington, D.C., June 7, 2018. In attendance but not pictured were U.S. Air Force Col. Donald Holloway ’93 and Pat Rohan ’92. Rohan, Bird and Belenky graduated from the National War College, where King and Holloway are professors of national security strategy.

Obadal graduated from the College of International Security Affairs, and Venning and Hough graduated from the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy.

2018-Issue 4

7

In Memory: Gen. Ronald H. Griffith

Gen. Ronald H. Griffith, above, served on the VMI Board of Visitors from 2004-12.

On July 18, 2018, retired U.S. Army Gen. Ronald H. Griffith, who served on the VMI Board of Visitors from 2004 to 2012, died at his home in Arlington, Virginia. He was 82.

Born in Lafayette, Georgia, on March 16, 1936, Griffith began his 37-year Army career as a private and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in 1960 after graduating from the University of Georgia. He served twice in Vietnam: First, as an adviser to infantry units of the Army of the Republic of Vietnam from 1964 to 1965 and, second, as the executive officer of 2nd Battalion, 8th Infantry Regiment from 1969-70.

An armor officer, Griffith went on to command, including the 1st Battalion, 32nd Armor Division in Germany; the 1st Brigade, 2nd Infantry Division in Korea; and the 1st Armored Division (“Old Ironsides”). His numerous staff assignments included executive officer to the Deputy Chief of Staff of the Army for Operations and Plans; chief of the War Plans Division; and the Inspector General of the Army. He also served as the chief of staff and then as the assistant division commander of the 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas.

As the commander of the 1st Armored Division, Griffith led the unit in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. In February 1991, the division was instrumental

8

in executing the famous “left hook” in which a combined American, British and French forces numbering more than 270,000 troops outflanked the Iraqi army. So successful was this maneuver that Kuwait was liberated and the ground component of the Persian Gulf War ended in 100 hours. Speaking about his division, Griffith later said the 1st Armored Division destroyed 630 Iraqi tanks and lost only four of its own.

Appointed to serve as the Army’s inspector general later in 1991, Gen. Griffith served four years in that position before being named as the service’s vice chief of staff, its secondhighest-ranking position, in 1995. He was in that position when he retired from the Army November 1, 1997.

As the vice chief of staff, Griffith was renowned for his deft handling of the issues that arose as he coordinated with the other services and numerous civilian agencies and oversaw the revamping of women’s roles in the Army.

Among Griffith’s many military honors were the Defense Distinguished Service Medal, two awards of the Distinguished Service Medal, three awards of the Legion of Merit and the Purple Heart. He also received decorations from numerous foreign governments, including Argentina and Germany.

Griffith attended the Army’s Command and General Staff College and the Army War College and earned a master’s degree in public administration from Shippensburg University.

After his military career, he served as the executive vice president of MPRI, a military contractor in Alexandria, Virginia, that was later acquired by the L-3 Services Group. He was a member of the board of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences and the Aurora Foundation, which is devoted to helping veterans graduate from college and enter the workforce.

He joined VMI’s Board of Visitors in July 2004 and served on many of the board’s committees, including the Executive Committee, the Appeals Committee, the Athletics Committee and the Academic Affairs Committee. He also was a member of the Audit Finance and Planning Committee for four years. He was the chairman of two committees – the Cadet/Military Affairs

and the Nominating and Governance Committee – and was a member of those committees for six and five years, respectively.

The resolution presented to him by his colleagues on the board at the end of his second term stated that, “When discussing key issues to come before the Board, the President and the Superintendent frequently called upon General Griffith for his wisdom and most often the sage advice he imparted was of particular relevance in seeking resolution.”

The resolution also commended him for being “a proponent of VMI seeking ways to ensure more intercollegiate athletes have commissioning opportunities as he stressed the correlation of leadership and characteristics needed to succeed as an athlete to those of military officers.”

His survivors are his wife, Hurdis M. Griffith, dean emeritus at the Rutgers University College of Nursing, to whom he was married for 53 years; two daughters; a brother; a sister; and five grandchildren.

Gen. Dennis J. Reimer, left, the then-Army chief of staff, presents Griffith with the Defense Distinguished Service Medal during Griffith’s retirement ceremony in 1997.

Photo by Shannon Duckworth, U.S. Army.

VMI Alumni Review

Features BeanBot Research Bridges Psychology, Robotics

by Mary Price, VMI Communications and Marketing

Cadet Miyah Boyd ’20 with her robot on the porch of Moody Hall. Boyd’s research, and the robot used, were made possible by support from the Jackson-Hope Fund. VMI photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

Cadet Miyah Boyd ’20 doesn’t aim low. During summer 2018, she learned how to program a robot, but her goal is to provide an electronic companion for people with autism and social anxiety disorder so they can more smoothly navigate a world they often perceive as harsh, chaotic and threatening.

It’s a project spanning three disciplines: Boyd’s major, computer and information sciences, psychology and electrical and computer engineering. In addition, Boyd is drawing from her own experience of loss after her 17-year-old sister died in a car accident six years ago.

“BeanBot,” as Boyd has christened her creation, will be a nonjudgmental friend to those in need of a little emotional support.

“BeanBot will be able to talk to them and sense when their heart rate is elevated,” Boyd explained. “It’s just a nice buddy that will help them with their day-to-day life.”

The name “BeanBot” came from Boyd’s roommate, Cadet Jennifer Hartman ’20. Hartman calls Boyd “Tink” because Boyd has metal in one of her hip joints after an operation last year, and in return, Boyd calls her close friend “Bean.”

The idea for BeanBot came about when Boyd took a class on the history of computers and technology taught by Maj. Hongbo Zhang, Ph.D., assistant professor of computer and information sciences. In that class, she was assigned to write a paper on a project she’d undertake using artificial intelligence.

At first, Boyd thought about creating a companion for those experiencing the loss of a loved one. The loved one’s voice could be programmed into

2018-Issue 4

a robot, she thought, enabling the mourner to have a final goodbye. Then she had second thoughts, realizing that many people would be unable to let go of a crutch such as this.

“I rerouted my idea to people with autism, social anxiety,” she stated. Boyd added that the robot should help people who normally wouldn’t open up to another human be able to share their feelings more freely, as an inanimate object cannot judge them.

“It’s kind of a custom companion for people with disabilities,” said Dr. Ramoni Lasisi, Ph.D., assistant professor of computer and information science, who guided Boyd’s Summer Undergraduate Research Institute project.

The goal of Boyd’s summer research was to pave the way for BeanBot by learning how to program JD, a robot that Boyd built from a kit. “[JD] teaches me how I should lay out his wiring and how everything should look,” said Boyd. “This summer has been me trying to design a prototype for BeanBot.” The project will encompass the remainder of Boyd’s cadetship and culminate in a capstone project, which could be linked to capstone projects for cadets majoring in either psychology or electrical and computer engineering.

Down the road, Boyd will decide on a format for BeanBot – a stand-alone robot, an app on a phone or an app for the Apple watch or a similar device.

So far, she’s leaning toward the watch. “[Users] can carry it around and not bring unwanted attention,” she said.

After VMI, Boyd plans to commission into the Army National Guard and possibly work for the FBI. Inspired by the movie “Hidden Figures,” she’s also interested in working for NASA.

9

The Jackson-Hope Fund: Supporting Academic Excellence

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

Faculty gathered in Cameron Hall for the 2018 Academic Convocation, where presidential historian Jon Meacham gave the address. The Jackson-Hope Fund helps foster academic excellence by supporting VMI’s dedicated faculty. VMI photo by Kelly Nye. The Jackson-Hope Fund has been promoting academic excellence at VMI for almost two decades by supporting faculty development and cadet undergraduate research, expanding the number of faculty positions, and fostering innovation throughout the academic program.

Thanks to donors who have supported the fund with more than $50 million in donations, something that began as an idea has blossomed into a game-changer for VMI’s entire academic program.

The late 1990s were a busy time at the Institute. It was undergoing the early days of coeducation and dealing with the many associated issues, as well as beginning to examine needed changes to the Physical Plant. In preparation for a major fundraising campaign, the Institute was prompted to perform a thorough examination of its needs as a way of setting the campaign’s

10

goals. Pre-eminent among these needs was strengthening the Institute’s academic program.

As Warren J. Bryan ’71, VMI Foundation chief operating officer who was involved in supporting the campaign, recalled, “The general attitude was that the Institute had a good, solid academic program that had served it well. If we wanted VMI’s graduates to have the same impact and reputation in the future as they had had in the past, however, good was no longer good enough when it came to academics.”

The campaign cabinet – led by George G. Phillips Jr. ’60 and Josiah Bunting III ’63, then-superintendent – was of like mind on that matter. Phillips already had given the matter some thought. “I was especially keen on the idea of using the campaign to foster excellence throughout the academic program.”

Phillips consulted with people associated

with development at other Virginia institutions, including the University of Virginia, the College of William & Mary and Virginia Tech. He also discussed the matter with alumni, Institute leadership and Gordon K. Davies, who served as the director of the State Council on Higher Education in Virginia for two decades.

“What I learned from them is that one reason people give a lot of money to something is that they believe in a cause,” remembers Phillips.

“Well, seeing as most alumni cannot think of many better causes than VMI, we had a big head start in that regard. But I also learned that a trend was emerging – and has since accelerated – among donors. They were no longer content to simply write a check and step back.

They wanted to be involved.”

For Phillips then, the question was how to apply philanthropy in such a way that it addressed

VMI Alumni Review

critical needs within the Institute’s academic enterprise and allowed for the involvement of the donors who were making it possible. The solution was to establish a fund that would combine the best of a donor-advised fund and a venture capital fund with an element of supervision that would allow major donors or their representatives to direct its use and ensure that the funds were being used for their intended purposes. And, so, the Jackson-Hope Fund was born.

“We chose the name based on the JacksonHope Medal, which is the award that two graduating cadets receive every year in recognition of their status as the first- and secondhighest ranking cadets academically,” said Phillips. “But there’s more to it than that. The physical medal bears its name and two more words: ‘For Excellence.’ And that – excellence throughout the academic program – is what this fund is meant to do. How it does it often varies, but that goal – achieving and maintaining excellence – has never changed.”

To achieve excellence, the fund would support new academic initiatives that would become staples of the academic program. With initial support coming from the Jackson-Hope board, the fund began its work in 2001 with the seven-member board of overseers steering the use of the funds and monitoring performance.

In June 2001, Brig. Gen. Charles F. Brower became the dean of the faculty, a post he held for seven years. Seeing the potential of the Jackson-Hope Fund, Brower sought to link the fund with the improvements outlined in the Institute’s strategic plan for academics. “In five years’ time,” said Phillips, “the initiatives that we funded had fostered dramatic improvements throughout the academic program.”

Since then, the fund’s support of the academic program has increased, and its beneficial effects have increased, as well. One of the most enduring initiatives is the Center for Undergraduate Research where cadets conduct meaningful research in various fields – research that often concludes in publication in academic journals. Faculty-mentored research is a key component to help cadets develop their critical thinking skills. The Jackson-Hope Fund also provides a majority of the money that underwrites faculty development.

During his time as dean, Brower asked the board of overseers to consider using the fund to provide support for new faculty positions.

Phillips remembers Brower telling him that expanding the faculty in some departments would make them more effective. After some discussion, the board agreed to the request. The support from the Jackson-Hope Fund allowed

2018-Issue 4

VMI to hire faculty members when other institutions were dropping positions. “This was a turning point for VMI academics,” Phillips emphasized. “Imagine, when other schools were having to cut faculty positions, VMI was able to place well-positioned faculty where necessary to underpin the strength of significant departments. This allowed us to continue to build a momentum in consistency, growth and maturity of the curriculum.”

Since 2001, more than $50 million has been raised for the fund, which has generated $21 million in support for VMI’s academic program. In the current academic year, it is providing more than $2.7 million in support to the academic program, a figure that includes $300,000 to the Center for Leadership and Ethics, $190,000 to fund undergraduate research and more than $907,000 to support seven faculty positions, including two Jackson-Hope Distinguished Professors and a position in Arabic in the Department of Modern Languages and Cultures.

The position in the modern languages department is held by Dr. Jason Schroepfer, Ph.D., who joined the faculty this year. He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2002. After passing the Defense Language Aptitude Battery, he trained as a military linguist studying Arabic at the Defense Language Institute. He deployed to Iraq’s Al-Anbar province and worked as an Arabic translator for the remainder of his enlistment. After leaving the Marines, Schroepfer attained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Near Eastern languages and literatures from the University of California at Berkeley. He then earned a Master of Arts degree and Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Texas at Austin. His research focuses on the interplay between language and society in the Arabic-speaking societies, with a particular interest in southern Egypt. “Jason – who brings a solid academic background and amazing real world experience to the classroom – is the latest in a line of professors of Arabic whose position has been supported by the JacksonHope Fund,” said the department’s head, Col. Don Sunnen.

The first Arabic professor to hold the Jackson-Hope funded position was Mohamed Taifi, who has taught Arabic at VMI since 2002 and whose position the fund supported for 10 years, beginning in 2003. Taifi is described by Sunnen as “an amazing asset to the department. He has led the summer study abroad program to Fez, Morocco, multiple times, most recently this past summer. Mohamed and his wife, Khadija Bentouhami, have guided the Arabic program and shaped it over the years,

offering a great deal of cultural background in addition to excellent development of cadets’ language skills.” The second was Anouar El Younssi, who taught from 2016-18 and “helped further strengthen the program by organizing the nationally recognized STARTALK program at VMI for beginning Arabic in the summers of 2017 and 2018,” Sunnen explained. “Thanks to the Jackson-Hope Fund, we have been able to attract such professors to post and build a strong, nationally recognized program in Arabic.”

“Many of the innovative programs that help provide the excellent academic program to VMI cadets would not be possible without the generous annual support from the JacksonHope Fund,” said Brig. Gen. Robert W. Moreschi, dean of the faculty. “The fund supports teaching and research programs that include participation by faculty and cadets at national and international conferences. Attendance by our faculty and cadets at such events helps boost VMI’s reputation amongst the broader academic community and supports our national reputation. Usually, more than half of the full-time faculty attends such conferences each year, and most trips would not occur without Jackson-Hope support.”

He continued, “It also supports the work of the Miller Academic Center, which provides cadets the tools to improve academic performance such as time-management training and study skills, and the Math Education and Resource Center’s Open Math Lab. Nationwide, many matriculating college students, including our rats, suffer from ‘math anxiety’ and/or have weak math skills. The MERC is a key resource to help cadets succeed in math courses and math applications because it provides professional and cadet tutors to the Corps of Cadets in all core-curriculum and high-demand math courses.”

“Taking in all that the Jackson-Hope Fund has done and is doing, I congratulate the fund’s original donors for believing in and supporting a unique idea to assure excellence in VMI’s academic program. And I thank all those donors who have since joined them and, through their generosity, made the fund even more capable,” Moreschi concluded.

Looking back at the progress of the fund from its germination in the late 1990s to the present day, Phillips said, “The success of the Jackson-Hope Fund shows what can happen when people who want what’s best for VMI put their heads together and think creatively.

It might have seemed like a crazy idea at the time, but this remarkable venture has worked way beyond our initial expectations.”

11

Wolffe ’78: “Let Us Play the Game!”

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

Rick Wolffe ’78 has co-written or co-edited five books, served as the historian for his home course and helped organize the Tillinghast Association, which promotes the legacy of Albert W. Tillinghast, renowned golf architect. Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

Hobbies. Most people have at least one – something apart from work that piques their interest and which they pursue. At times, the pursuit of one hobby will lead to the pursuit of another. Such is the case of Rick Wolffe ’78, whose longtime hobby of golf has been joined by another one: Golf history – particularly the career of the great golf course architect, golf writer and solid amateur player, Albert W. Tillinghast.

To date, Wolffe has co-written or co-edited five books; served as the historian for his home course, the famous Baltusrol Golf Club in Springfield, New Jersey; and helped organize the Tillinghast Association, which promotes the legacy of the aforementioned golf great.

Wolffe’s grandparents introduced him to the sport during summer visits to Cleveland, Ohio, that he and his brother, Elliott ’80, made, and Wolffe has played steadily ever since. “I’ve never been any good,” he claimed. “I actually played for VMI for one semester, but I wasn’t

12

good enough to continue.” Despite such protestations, at one point, Wolffe admits to getting his handicap down to single digits and being “addicted.” More recently, the demands of work and other projects have curtailed his playing time – something he says his boss, a fellow golfer, appreciates – although that still amounts to 25 rounds a year.

Wolffe’s career as a golf historian took flight when, with his friend Robert Trebus, he researched and wrote a book celebrating the 100th anniversary of the founding of Baltusrol. A National Historical Landmark – only two other courses, Oakmont Country Club and Merion Golf Club, are so honored – it has hosted 15 U.S. Golf Association events, including five U.S. Opens, two U.S. Women’s Opens and two PGA Championships – the most recent in 2016.

Published in 1995, “Baltusrol, 100 Years: The Centennial History of Baltusrol Golf Club” took six years of work. During that time, Wolffe developed an intense interest in the course’s architect, Tillinghast, also known as “Tilly.” “I had a new hobby – golf historian – and I now had a new subject: Tillinghast, who I believe was a forgotten genius.”

Tillinghast was most active in the first third of the 20th century when America was growing richer, and Americans had more leisure time. In part because of President William Howard Taft’s wholehearted embrace of golf, the sport’s popularity soared, and golf course architects, like Tillinghast, were in high demand. Before the Great Depression ended what some have called the first golden age of golf design, Tilly designed or remodeled more than 120 courses. Working with the PGA, he continued to work, albeit at a slower pace, until his death in 1942.

Tilly-designed courses can be found all over the country, and some of them – such as Baltusrol, Winged Foot, Bethpage Black and the San Francisco Country Club – are counted among the best in America and the world.

Asked to describe the hallmarks of a Tillinghast design, Wolffe replied, “It’s a classical look that invites players to appreciate the course’s natural setting as well as nature itself. Golf was meant to provide an opportunity for exercise, so, Tillinghast courses can be walked. Tilly appreciated beauty and many of his courses are utterly beautiful.

Someone once said, for example, that walking on to Winged Foot was ‘akin to walking into a cathedral.’”

Yet, it was not just Tillinghast’s talents as an architect that Wolffe appreciated. Following in his father’s footsteps, Tilly was a talented golf writer, although he often used a pen name. “He wrote voluminously, and he had a splendid gift for communication and storytelling. Even though they were written decades ago, his essays and articles remain accessible and entertaining.”

Starting in the late 1990s, Wolffe; Trebus; and Wolffe’s brother, Stuart, researched, compiled and designed four books of Tillinghast’s writings: “The Course Beautiful” (1996); “Reminiscences of the Links” (1998); “Gleanings from the Wayside” (2001); and the latest, “Tillinghast’s Baltusrol: A National Landmark and Championship Tradition” (2018).

“You witness a lot of golf history through his writings, and you see how the game developed from the late 1890s and into the 20th century through the eyes of an engaging author,” explained Wolffe.

“That’s a special combination, and that’s why I brought his work back into print.”

While researching these books, Wolffe and his two co-authors traveled

VMI Alumni Review

to several Tillinghast courses, including ones that are listed among the world’s great courses.

Asked what constitutes a great course as opposed to a good one, Wolffe replied, “First, they need to be challenging. Second, they should, as much as possible, look like the good Lord put them there. Third, they need to be beautiful – pleasing to the eye of the player and the golf fan alike.”

He hastened to add that “beautiful” doesn’t mean “overly manicured.” Most of the courses on which The Open Championship in the United Kingdom is played, he said, fit the definition as does a course like Shinnecock Hills where the 2018 U.S. Open was played.

Asked what current golf architects could learn from this approach, Wolffe began, “I understand that there are different styles of golf architecture. There, however, is a tendency of some architects to design – and clubs to want – courses that offer what some term ‘penal golf.’

The guys and gals who pay the greens fees and club memberships are out to relax, enjoy time outdoors and enjoy time with friends. They can’t do any of that on these courses. There are forced carries over water, extremely narrow fairways and ridiculously fast greens. In other words, far too often, average hackers – and let’s face it, unless you’re on tour, you’re an average hacker – aren’t having fun. They are being flogged. Tillinghast’s approach was to put players first. He was always looking to improve their experience.”

Tillinghast’s approach also would mitigate

what Wolffe calls “an obsession with distance.”

As Wolffe sees it, equipment manufacturers create clubs and balls that allow professional players to hit longer. “Few, if any, weekend hackers can hit as long as a pro, but architects and clubs reply with longer courses anyway.

These longer courses – on which no tour professional probably will ever play – demand more maintenance, take much more time to play and require players to use carts, increasing the cost of a round.”

Then, there is a tendency toward “overmaintenance.” Wolffe explained, “Courses don’t need to be meticulously maintained or look like an obsessively tended garden in order to be attractive. Really, only one – Augusta National – needs to be, because that’s what visitors and television viewers have come to expect. Tillinghast proved with his designs that relatively simple courses have an enduring beauty.”

If golf as a game is to grow in the United States, according to Wolffe, it should not be an elite sport. “Tilly once wrote, ‘In the planning of courses, there is the joy of creation and a keen satisfaction in seeing them develop, until finally they receive the approval of those who play over them.’ Overall that notion, that idea of receiving the approval of the players – all players – is what the golf industry needs to embrace in order to grow the game.” Wolffe expressed that the sport needs to be “fun and accessible.” That might mean letting people play nine holes or even just three, if that’s all

they have the time for. “Also, if we can control distances, courses will be walkable. That will let people appreciate the environment, and that’s an important element to the enjoyment of golf.”

Asked how he’d respond if a young person asked why he or she should take up golf, Wolffe said, “I’d tell them that it’s a healthy activity that gets you outdoors. Sure, you can play a lot of sports for many years, but golf is one you can play for the rest of your life. And it’s got some great social aspects. For example, look at how VMI-related golf events bring all sorts of alumni together. Also, when you’re doing it right and you’re with the right people, golf is fun.”

Wolffe added that it is an exciting time in golf, as its popularity all over the world is expanding, especially throughout Asia from India to China, and it is now included in the Summer Olympics. He said golf also has important effects here at home. “Golf is a game, but it’s also an industry. Like any industry, it creates wealth and jobs and otherwise contributes to the economy. It also generates millions of dollars every year in scholarships for young people. Overall, it does a lot of good for the country, and with the right people involved, it can do a lot more.”

If Wolffe’s arguments convinced him or her to take up the game, what would his next piece of advice be? “First, go to a PGA professional and get lessons. Then, in the words of A.W. Tillinghast, ‘Let us play the game!’”

Stepping into the Ring: Rick Wolffe ’78

Rick Wolffe ’78, left, squared off with former heavyweight contender Gerry Cooney during a charity boxing match June 2, 2018. Photo by Monica Stevenson.

On June 2, 2018, Rick Wolffe ’78 had a rare experience: Squaring off with former heavyweight contender Gerry Cooney.

“About a year-and-a-half ago, a friend asked me to participate in Gerry Cooney Fight Night, an annual event to benefit Youth Consultation Services

2018-Issue 4

which does great work helping children throughout New Jersey,” explained Wolffe. “I asked what I had to do. He replied, ‘Spend two rounds in the ring with Gerry.’”

“As cadet, I dreaded rat boxing. I mean, I couldn’t sleep the night before class,” Wolffe remembered. “And, despite that, I said, ‘Yes.’” Wolffe trained hard for the event over the next 18 months, to include sparring sessions with Cooney. “At the first, he asked if I had ever boxed before. I replied, ‘Yes, almost 35 years ago as a rat at VMI.’ He gave me a funny look and tapped my gloves with his. Then, the bell rang.”

At the event, held at the W Hotel in Hoboken, New Jersey, there were two “In the Ring” appearances, including Wolffe’s, and eight USA Boxing-sanctioned amateur bouts.

Wolffe lasted through both rounds. “I knew enough about Gerry’s style to keep away from his right, and I did so for the most part.”

“This was a wonderful experience,” said Wolffe. “I actually enjoyed the training, and the event’s atmosphere was wonderful. I also had great support from my sponsors, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks Lodge 1246. Plus, I got to know ‘Gentleman Gerry,’ who is a great human being.”

13

Using All the Things VMI Gives Them: Cadets Perform Well at Lockheed Martin Ethics Competition

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer In December 2017, two cadets – Paul Conteh ’18, a computer and information sciences major, and Ross Schmeisser ’18, a mechanical engineering major who was pursuing a minor in mathematics – and Col. Jay Sullivan, Ph.D., of the department of mechanical engineering were invited to participate 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, after receiving a brief summary of a case with implications in engineering, business and ethics, teams from 12 schools analyze it and then make three presentations regarding their recommendations during one day of competition.

While that might seem a rather straightforward affair, the experience was somewhat challenging for the cadets and Sullivan, as they received invitation from Lockheed Martin to participate in the competition – which would take place in mid-February – not long before Christmas furlough. As Sullivan recounts it, “Megan Newman, then-VMI Foundation director of corporate and foundation relations, called me and told me of this event and strongly urged me to take part in it. It involved receiving a case two weeks before the conference and a deadline to submit one week before the conference. I hesitated a bit, but I trusted her judgement and agreed to be the faculty mentor for VMI’s team.”

The fact that the conference would take place a little more than a month after cadets returned from Christmas furlough and that they were preparing for the conference on top of their normal academic load and their co-curricular activities was a little daunting. With the

deadline for the submission set a week before the conference began, the time constraints got even tighter. Sullivan was also concerned that he had no formal training in ethics and no academic background in the subject.

The case itself presented a situation in which an upgraded version of a wireless communications device worn by police and security personnel which had been successful in a counterterrorism role was about to deploy in New York and London. Not long before the rollout, however, questions arise about the dangers posed by the levels of emissions of nonionizing radiation by a key component of the device, especially at its enhanced setting. The board of directors of NOVA, the manufacturing company, is divided over how to proceed. Some are concerned that any substantial delay would damage the company financially; others are concerned that if it becomes known that safety concerns about the equipment were ignored, the company would be irreparably damaged.

The participants’ task was to act in the role of “a trusted outside consultant” and “provide a fresh, level-headed perspective on the conflict.”

They would need to present an analysis of the ethical, engineering and business issues related to the case and recommend how the company should proceed in a way that would “provide the best outcome for the company and its stakeholders.”

Sullivan admits the case was challenging enough on its face, but there was something about it that made it “a little intimidating” – the absence of technical information. “I am an engineer, and Paul and Ross were STEM majors. With that background, the initial thought

Ross Schmeisser ’18, left, and Paul Conteh ’18, right, represented VMI at Lockheed Martin’s Engineering Ethics Case Competition. Col. Jay Sullivan of the department of mechanical engineering, center, served as their adviser.

14

VMI Alumni Review

is to define the technical problems and design a technical fix. But that was not an option.”

The first step Sullivan and the cadets took was to view videos posted on YouTube of presentations at other ethics competitions. “Some of the presentations came across too erudite, peppered with too many 50-cent words. The ones that appealed to us were the ones made by Midshipmen at the Naval Academy. Not only did they ‘speak our language,’ but they also were successful in the competitions. After seeing them, we looked at each other and said, ‘We can do this.’”

As they examined the case, the cadets and Sullivan kept a key point in mind: There was no one good choice. “By that, I mean any recommendation we could propose had both positive and negative effects,” he explained. “Anything we recommend would be by necessity a compromise and it would involve risk. Risk for the company, risk for the people using the device, risk for investors, risk for the company’s employees.”

The event took place at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Fort Worth, Texas, where – in a mile-long factory – thousands of components come together to make the advanced F-35 Lightning II fighter. “It is an incredibly impressive place and, for anyone with an engineering background, exceptionally exciting because of what is done there and the high level at which it is done,” according to Sullivan.

The competition took one day and was divided into three phases. The first was a 90-second “elevator talk,” in which each team gave a short summation of its recommendation without using any notes. After that, the 12 teams were divided into groups of four and, in three separate conference rooms, made a 20-minute presentation in which each team laid out its recommendations in detail. The top-finishing school from each of these initial sets of presentations went on to the final, where they faced what Sullivan described as a “grilling” from the full panel of judges who took on the role of the top executives of the company.

The cadets cleared the first two hurdles, although the elevator talk was, as Sullivan put it, “the most nerve-wracking.” When the competition ended, VMI placed third out of 12 schools, with the University of Arizona and Virginia Tech taking second and first place, respectively.

Asked why he thinks the cadets placed so highly, Sullivan said, “I think it was how they embraced the notion of risk.” The cadets proposed that the company continue to deploy the device because its potential to prevent terrorism was too valuable to set aside but also admit its possible safety risk and commit to working out a technical fix as soon as possible. In the meantime, police and security personnel would be instructed to use the device’s “enhanced” mode only in times of heightened alert, and the company would establish a fund that would pay for the treatment of any health problems that the use of the device might cause. “What they were proposing was practical risk management, and that practical side obviously appealed to businessmen and women. That approach also demonstrated a creative side to their thinking that was appealing, as well.”

“What made their presentation stand out even more, however,” continued Sullivan, “was how they were able to convince the judges that police officers would be willing to accept the risk of using the device based on their willingness to serve in the military. Ross Schmeisser, who commissioned in the Marines, said he is willing to put his life on the line to defend the country, and that police personnel have that same attitude.”

Sullivan further explained that the way Conteh and Schmeisser presented themselves, which was also appreciated by the judges, reflected the value of the VMI experience. “Cadets learn to carry themselves with dignity, and Paul and Ross did so on and off the

2018-Issue 4

podium. Cadets learn not to be afraid to stand in front of people and make a case, because they do it all the time. They have to make decisions and justify them to faculty and staff, as well as bear their consequences. The nature and intensity of cadet life is such that not too many situations and not too many people rattle them,” said Sullivan. “It was no surprise, therefore, that even under the most intense grilling from the judges on the third panel, these two were unflappable, carried themselves with immense dignity and displayed exceptional maturity.”

Asked for his impressions of the experience, Conteh said, “I was struck by the level of expertise and detail this forum demanded. I was pleased to be taking part in a forum on ethics, because it seems to be something lacking in today’s workplace.” He continued, “It also was very interesting to see how a Fortune 500 company maintains a high level of excellence in all it does. The tour they gave us provided an in-depth look on how amazing it is to work at a place that is making a difference.”

Sullivan echoed Conteh’s thoughts when asked what it was that cadets would derive from attending events such as this one. “Cadets would see, as Paul and Ross did, what they’d be engineering if they worked for a company like Lockheed Martin. Looking at a mammoth project like the F-35, they’d have their eyes opened to all that goes into it: Supply chains, sustainability and, yes, ethics.” Sullivan continued, “They also would get the chance to meet executives in these businesses.

That not only exposes them to how the leadership lessons they learn at VMI will apply to a different and more complicated problem set but also lets them imagine themselves in executive positions in the future. That would broaden their horizons and open them up to new and exciting opportunities. In other words, the cadet who thinks that after serving in the Army, he wants to return to Richmond and work for a construction company might say, ‘I’d rather move to Texas and help build fighter jets or space systems.’”

Asked what he saw as the benefits of faculty members to be involved in such an event would be, Sullivan said, “Much like the cadets, I got a lot out of meeting professors from other colleges. This event also was different from the usual academic conference because, rather than having 10 panels running at once and everyone divided among them, there was one set of events. That allows for more interaction and for deeper discussion about what happened. Plus, there was so much else that was truly amazing at this conference, from the factory tour to meeting the chief test pilot for the F-35 program, Al Norman, an Air Force Academy graduate who holds a Ph.D. in electrical engineering and has almost 25 years of experience as an experimental test pilot in the military and private industry. You usually don’t meet people like that at an academic conference.”

Summing up his experiences at the conference, Conteh said, “We got great support from VMI, beginning with Colonel Sullivan and Charlene Graves, the secretary at the mechanical engineering department, which meant Ross and I could concentrate on the competition. Finally, I felt like I was an ambassador for VMI.” Sullivan responded, “I came away hoping that cadets get more opportunities to attend events like this one, because they can apply all those things that VMI gives them, like teamwork and determination, and people who aren’t all that familiar with VMI will see what an extraordinary place it is and what extraordinary people it graduates. Events like these, often supported by private donations, also inspire cadets to higher levels of academic excellence. As for me, well, it was kind of exhausting, but it was the high point of my semester.”

15

Data Matters: Department of Applied Mathematics

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

It is apropos to begin an article about mathematics at VMI with numbers. So ... 31 and 28.

According to Troy Siemers, head of the department of applied mathematics, 31 indicates the number of mathematics majors who graduated from VMI between 1989-99.

The second represents the number of applied mathematics majors who graduated with the Class of 2018. While that is the largest class in several years, the major is seeing strong numbers in the mid-teens. “And,” he added, “Every year, between 30 and 40 cadets graduate with a minor in applied mathematics as well.” Putting that into another perspective, the average percentage of math majors in graduating classes at the undergraduate level at an American college or university is less than 1 percent. With 355 graduates, 7.9 percent of the Class of 2018 was actively studying mathematics.

Asked what happened in almost 20 years to

the law, government and finance – by applying their mathematical skills and knowledge.

“There is an enormous demand for datadriven solutions because there are so many challenges and processes that, because of their importance, cannot be left to intuition and guesswork,” said Siemers, “and that has spawned all sorts of new specialties. There are bio-mathematicians who are helping to develop models that can predict the spread of diseases like the Zika virus, Ebola and dengue fever. Right now, two cadets are working on a project, funded by an alumnus, related to sentencing in the federal criminal justice system. They are downloading 15 years of data related to such things as race, the average of the length of prison terms handed out by judges for specific crimes and the nature of the crimes in order to create a database that defense lawyers can use when representing clients going through the sentencing process.

of what makes the department stand out, Siemers said, “First, we have a relatively young faculty – you’ll see a lot of majors and lieutenant colonels if you visit – and that helps the department as a whole connect with cadets. Second, our faculty is engaged in what they teach. For example, Meagan Herald helps the Cystic Fibrosis Association with modeling of recovery rates, and Jessica Libertini has worked on setting national government food policy.” He pointed to the work of the Open Math Lab as well, which provides free tutoring – much of which is provided by cadets – to cadets who are taking what might be called ‘entry-level’ math courses such as calculus I and II. “Thanks to Kristi Brown’s leadership, the OML does great work aiding cadets, and I’m sure it will continue to improve.”

The internships the department has established have also given cadets exposure to and experience in the world of applied mathemat-

“One of the reasons we adopted that model was that applied mathematics matched our students much better. Cadets have a much more practical bent to them in the first place. They’re always looking to do things, to tackle a task. They’re also more serious. Applied math appeals to their personalities, and that’s why our department has expanded in terms of majors.” – Col. Troy Siemers, Ph.D.

lead to such dramatic improvement, Siemers first pointed to a change in the department’s mission. “At VMI, the math department always has been a crossroads for the entire Corps of Cadets; from its earliest days, every cadet has taken some form of mathematics course. So, it will always have that role. But there remains the question of what we are preparing our majors to do. When I came to VMI, the department saw its mission as setting them on course for graduate school, a doctorate and a career as academics or mathematicians.” Now, as the name of the department suggests, it focuses on preparing cadets to solve problems and find solutions in all sorts of environments – business, medicine,

16

Put another way, data matters, and it has direct application to businesses’ success, nations’ security and people’s lives.”

The department made the final transition to applied mathematics about a decade ago.

“That means that it took about a decade to change the overall direction and atmosphere of the department,” recalled Siemers. “We began by bringing in faculty members who were more inclined toward applied mathematics and readjusting the curriculum to reflect each of their particular experiences and expertise.

We have also benefited many double majors, in particular with the physics department, our close collaborators in Mallory Hall.”

Responding to a question about some

ics. “We send cadets to places like the Center for Army Analysis and Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab. They return with an even greater appreciation for our curriculum and a realization of just how many opportunities they’ll have to apply what we teach.”

Siemers also noted the innovations that the department has made in terms of the courses it offers. “Again, Meagan Herald teaches a course in the history of mathematics which has been received well by the cadets, and, this past year, John Davis taught a course called ‘Sports and Math,’ which was popular.”

The latest innovation, developed in support of SACS reaccreditation efforts, is the new introductory math sequence for all rats

VMI Alumni Review

Col. Troy Siemers, Ph.D., head of the applied mathematics department, right, lectures during a fall class. The department has been growing over the past decade, with nearly eight percent of graduates actively studying mathematics. The department has shifted over the past two decades to its current focus of preparing cadets to solve problems and find solutions in myriad environments. Photo by Molly Rolon, VMI Alumni Agencies.

who are not pursuing a major in chemistry, physics, applied math or engineering. “It’s funny,” said Siemers, “how often people who view the math courses they took when they were younger as a waste of time. ‘I have never used it,’ they’ll say. While they might not use much math directly at their jobs, they daily use technologies that are underpinned by mathematics, they encounter statistics at work, and they read, hear and see news stories and advertisements that feature numbers. As I mentioned earlier, data now drives so much of our lives, to include what we do in the workplace and at home, and people need to understand data and learn how to use it – and to be aware when data are being misused or manipulated.”

In the new courses, “MA101-102: Math that Matters,” which was launched this summer as a pilot program under the auspices of the Summer Transition Program and began in earnest this fall, cadets are introduced to statistics, modelling and key aspects of calculus.

“They are asked to apply data that they can relate to in a more tangible sense, and which

2018-Issue 4

will be drawn from various departments on post. For example, Paul Moosman ’98 in the biology department will provide information about sampling bat populations, and from international studies’ Howard Sanborn, they’ll get polling data. The modern languages and cultures department will ask about planning for a foreign trip, and the physical education department will ask them to examine trends in cadets’ performances in the [Virginia Fitness Test].”

Siemers explained that the course, which will stretch over two semesters, will demand more of cadets than just working out problems in class or through homework. “They’ll be given problems related to the data they get from the other departments and they’ll be responsible for examining the data, assessing it, and then they’ll make a presentation in class as to how they propose to implement what they found.

The course will culminate with them being assigned a project that will demand they use what they have learned throughout the year.

They’ll develop a poster that presents their findings and recommendations and then, in an

event at Marshall Hall, they defend it orally.”

Asked how he thinks cadets will respond to the course, Siemers first harkened back to the adoption of the applied mathematics model for his department. “One of the reasons we adopted that model was that applied mathematics matched our students much better. Cadets have a much more practical bent to them in the first place. They’re always looking to do things, to tackle a task.

They’re also more serious. Applied math appeals to their personalities, and that’s why our department has expanded in terms of majors.”

“The cadets who are studying biology, computer science, English, economics, international studies, modern languages and psychology all have the same practical nature, the same serious desire to work out problems and find solutions,” he continued.

“That’s just the type of young person VMI attracts. ‘Math that Matters’ will, therefore, appeal to that nature and that desire. Plus,” he added with a grin, “It will mean that alumni won’t be able to say that they never used the math they learned at VMI.”

17

Lamore ’85: Providing Anti-Terrorism and High Security Barriers

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor

Mike Lamore ’85 stands in front an active net barrier, the product that launched his now-multi-million dollar international company, Barrier1 Systems. Lamore, who earned a civil engineering degree from VMI, designed the barrier to lie hidden in housing under the road and deploy within seconds at the touch of a button. Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

“The harder you work, the luckier you get,” civil engineering professor Col. Donald Jamison ’57 used to tell his students. Mike Lamore ’85 – president and owner of an international company named Barrier1 Systems located in Greensboro, North Carolina, and at www.barrier1.us – has been following his professor’s advice for years, and it has brought him Jamison’s brand of “luck.”

Supplementing his healthy work ethic is Lamore’s ability to grasp opportunities and produce tangible results. He shares his perspective with 1st Class civil engineering cadets in the CE 451 civil engineering seminar class, giving cadets a taste of current real-world engineering done by Barrier1 Systems. Lamore also talks to cadets about the importance of flexibility. Physical security – Barrier1’s bread and butter – was not on Lamore’s radar as a cadet. After 9/11, “it was a totally different world. You work hard in traditional companies, and 20 years into your career, the world changes,” he said. He tells cadets, “keep your eyes open” for new opportunities that evolve from world change.

Lamore worked for several companies owned by VMI alumni before launching Barrier1 Systems, including Bamforth Engineers + Surveyors, owned by C. Allan Bamforth

18

’62; Environmental Technologies, owned by Jim Wheat ’41 (later acquired by Tyco International); and Horne Engineering, owned

by Darryl Horne ’82. Through the years, he moved into positions of greater responsibility, gaining significant experience in program management, government contracts and physical security. With the beginning of the Global War on Terrorism, high security and anti-terrorism was a burgeoning new area: Military bases needed protection and access control, and troops in combat zones required new equipment on a tight timeline. Lamore, who had been working on a physical security program at Andrews Air Force Base, saw potential for a pioneering venture.

“Physical security was a relatively new area.

When I was working on the program at Andrews Air Force Base, I realized the increasing demand and that there was a business in it,” Lamore said.

“Being a civil engineer and program manager with 20-plus years of experience in government contracting, I decided this was worth the risk.

After we finished the program at Andrews Air Force Base ... I went out on my own.”

Armed with an idea and his savings, Lamore began his venture in 2003. He developed the company’s first active net barrier – which provides reduced risk vehicle arresting. The net

barrier decelerates the vehicle during impact using energy absorbers, so that an innocent civilian hitting the net in an SUV at 40 mph can be stopped with less risk of injury and vehicle damage. The barrier is a heavy-duty Kevlarbased net that lies hidden in housing under the road and – with the touch of a button – deploys in a mere two seconds to arrest vehicles up to 15,000 pounds traveling at 50-plus mph.

Expenses mounted during development, Lamore said, because physical security products require exhaustive testing by independent ASTM-approved crash test facilities. The cost of testing starts with a 15,000-pound test vehicle mounted with sensors and data collection systems, at a minimum of $10,000.

A multimillion-dollar towing system pulls the vehicle at a precise speed while high speed cameras from multiple angles record both the impact and the after effects suffered by both the barrier and the vehicle. After all the data are compiled, the report is “about 2 inches thick,” Lamore said.

“At first [the expenses] didn’t seem too bad, but it ended up costing about three times what I thought,” Lamore remembered. “Everything we do has to be crash-tested and vetted before it is purchased by the Department of Defense, federal agencies, nuclear plants, anti-terrorism

VMI Alumni Review

agencies and other customers. Development of our crash-tested robust barriers is expensive and takes time.” After working tirelessly to perfect his first active net barrier invention, Lamore assembled an audience of DoD and Department of State officials to witness the crash test as part of the approval process. His first test did not, however, go as planned.

The first test failed “miserably,” Lamore recalled. “The 15,000-pound truck hit it [the barrier] at 51 mph and just kept going right through it.

I was devastated, because it took seven months to get there and twothirds of what we had saved.” Never one to give up easily, Lamore continued, “I knew what had failed. I pleaded with the government officials to let me try again. They came back in two weeks. We retested the exact same barrier with one minor change. It worked perfectly.”

With the success of that test and a hefty dose of effort, Barrier1 Systems launched its first product, which was the active net barrier that deploys in two seconds and provides reduced risk stopping capability.

“There were only a few people working here, and we just worked seven days a week. After long days and long nights, we got that product off the ground with our first sale,” Lamore said. “After, we were able to develop a couple of other products and get them crash tested and vetted. They took to the market. Our high security barriers that we developed provided key capabilities that the troops and DoD sites needed. We were able to deliver the right solutions with key capabilities to them.”

Barrier1 and Lamore began to make a name for themselves as innovators who could deliver. As an example, a U.S. Marine colonel, frustrated with the often-lengthy DoD design and procurement process, contacted Lamore with a request to develop a portable crash-rated manuallyoperated drop arm barrier that could attach to in-theater existing Jersey barriers – the waist-high blocky concrete barriers often used to designate traffic lanes during road construction. Troops in Iraq were manning multiple vehicle checkpoints with Jersey barriers arrayed in zigzag patterns to force reduced vehicle speeds, but had no physical method to decisively stop vehicles – including potential suicide bombers.

Within two weeks, Lamore had designed the specialized mobile drop arm barrier requested by the colonel, which quickly went through the DoD’s testing and vetting process and passed with flying colors. On top

Following a phenomenal high school baseball career, Lamore came to VMI on a baseball scholarship. Records Lamore set as a Keydet catcher continue to stand: He is second in both career batting average and on-base percentage. He also earned academic stars as a civil engineering major and was a distinguished graduate of VMI. Photo courtesy VMI Athletic Department.

2018-Issue 4

Barrier1 Systems has a full bollard line, Lamore said. Pictured above are bollards bound for crowd protection at the Port Everglades cruise ship terminals in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida, area.

Photo courtesy Barrier1 Systems. of designing a practical, field-expedient barrier that made use of existing equipment – Jersey barriers – already on the ground in Iraq, Barrier1 packaged the entire kit-based barrier on one pallet. A single pallet included the barrier, tools, fasteners and instructions – resulting in troops receiving the entire barrier, instead of chasing supply lines up and down Iraq and Kuwait to piece together their physical security equipment. “It was one of those things where there was a need, and somebody couldn’t get it figured out, so we stepped up and we engineered it with a rapid turnaround,” Lamore said.

In the beginning, Barrier1 was only three people deep: Lamore, a welder and a third man with experience in construction. Currently, the company has about 30 employees, and outsources many items, with over 99 percent of materials and labor sourced within the U.S. Barrier1 Systems now boasts a robust product line, ranging from various access control barriers to rigid bollards, and has over 3,000 barriers installed in 12 countries.

Crowd protection is a wide-open market in physical security, and bollards – the stumpy concrete posts set in rows in front everything from shopping centers to airport entrances – are one of the prime protection devices. Barrier1 Systems has a full bollard line, including a new crash rated bollard which is ground retractable and ideal for crowd protection.

Explaining the innovative concept, Lamore gave the example of the Washington Redskins. Protection from possible threats is necessary less than a dozen days out of the year – on home game days. Barrier1 has designed and crash tested a ground retractable bollard that can be manually pulled up or pushed into the ground with as little as 20 pounds of force. “Now, a security professional can immediately provide high security protection ... [the person can] just drive up to a retractable bollard, unlock it and pull it up to provide crowd protection. [It] takes them 30 seconds to raise or retract the bollard. It’s an innovative solution for crowd protection against rogue vehicles with intent to harm.”

This design, which takes an existing product and improves it, is typical of Lamore and Barrier1’s innovation. Lamore and his team are constantly refining ideas and working on new products or improving existing products to make physical security solutions less expensive, easier to install, expedient and better.

19

In developing Barrier1’s unique products, Lamore often draws on his lessons learned at VMI. In the process of bringing the first net barrier from idea to reality, he needed a small – one square foot – box capable of generating 38,000 pounds of linear force within two seconds, to deploy the net out of the roadbed. This technology in such a small size did not exist. No manufacturer or person would innovate, and further claimed that this request was impossible. Lamore, who had hoped to outsource this piece of his net barrier, described calling other companies.

“Everybody would just say ‘No way!’ and hang up the phone. Click.

Click,” he recalled. “After two months of people saying [it couldn’t be done], I finally said, ‘We are going to have to do it in-house.’ We did it; it took almost three months, but we figured out some innovative things.

That’s the kind of thing that VMI [teaches]. Everybody’s telling you, ‘You can’t,’ but you have to figure out how you can.”

Lamore’s initial arrival to VMI “was really a shock,” he recalled. An All-Tidewater First Team baseball catcher, Lamore closed out his high school career with an impressive .538 season batting average and his high school team finished fourth in the state. “We had a great team,” he remembered. “We lived and breathed baseball.” Following his high school team’s success, Lamore spent the summer playing in the Palomino Division of the PONY Baseball League – the same league that runs the Little League World Series. Lamore’s team set the division on fire, cutting a swath through coastal Virginia competition, sweeping the rest of the southeast and beating a world-class Japanese team in San Jose, California, to win the Palomino World Series.

The final championship game, however, did not find Lamore in his usual spot behind home plate: That day, he was signing the Matriculation book and entering VMI’s Rat Line while his teammates won the final game of the Palomino World Series. “Humbling,” Lamore said, describing the experience of going from being a baseball superstar with media coverage in San Jose to landing smack in the middle of the Rat Line the next day. “Overnight, I went from somebody who was covered in the media to walking in the Rat Line. I was oblivious to what I was getting into on Matriculation Day. I did not realize [the Rat Line] was going to be as tough. I can also say it was one of the greatest experiences of my life. I needed that humbling experience as a young high school kid.”

VMI was the only college that offered Lamore the opportunity to study engineering and play baseball, topped with a baseball scholarship.

Both disciplines – baseball and civil engineering – were fundamental to Lamore’s overall VMI experience. Baseball’s hectic spring travel schedule taught Lamore how to prioritize and plan. Although he was away with the baseball team, Lamore still had to meet academic requirements set by Jamison and other professors. In addition to time management skills, which Lamore says he continues to use today, Lamore said his engineering education gave him a valuable foundation: “The one thing you learned was how to solve problems: How to solve complex problems.

That’s what I started with and that’s what I do now.”

On top of sharing his time with VMI at CE 451 seminars, Lamore and his wife, Susan, recently endowed two scholarships: the Michael J. Lamore ’85 Civil Engineering Scholarship and the Michael J. Lamore ’85 Baseball Scholarship. About his philanthropy, he said, “I’m very proud to be from VMI. I know how hard I worked, and [how hard] everybody worked to get through VMI. I think that a lot of my success is from VMI. I’ve been fortunate; we have done well [and] I want to give some of it back.”

In endowing these scholarships, Lamore enables young men or women to begin a career with the solid foundation earned through the VMI experience, and that young person will eventually join the talented VMI alumni network. Through his varied experiences after leaving the Institute, Lamore has worked with fellow alumni in numerous capacities.

“VMI has a huge network out there ... We’ve done quite of bit of business with other VMI graduates,” Lamore said, noting that he’s worked with both older and younger alumni. “The VMI graduates I’ve worked with have been excellent ... I’ve never had a bad experience with anybody from VMI.” Lamore matriculated to VMI from Virginia Beach, Virginia, and was a standout Keydet on the baseball diamond, as he still holds records in on-base percentage and career batting average. A distinguished graduate of VMI, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI, and went on to earn Master of Business Administration degrees from Tulane University and the University of North Carolina-Greensboro.

Barrier1 Systems has about 30 employees and fabricates many items for the company’s security devices.

The company’s robust product line is installed in countries around the world. Lamore, who credits much of his success to VMI, gives back to the Institute on several fronts. He gives students a taste of real-world engineering in a CE 451 seminar each fall, and – along with his wife, Susan – recently endowed two scholarships: the Michael J. Lamore ’85 Civil Engineering Scholarship and the Michael J. Lamore ’85 Baseball Scholarship.

20

VMI Alumni Review

On Post STP Connects Student Learning to Real Life

by Mary Price, VMI Communications & Marketing Ongoing at VMI for over three decades now, the Summer Transition Program allows incoming cadets to get acquainted with post, take an academic class, and break in the shoes and boots they’ll be wearing in the fall. While the structure of the program doesn’t change much from year to year, the course offerings do, and this summer, there were two changes to STP programming, both with the goal of connecting students’ learning to the real world.

Cadets in the surveying class taught by Maj. Paul Ackerman ’93, Ph.D., assistant professor of civil and environmental engineering, found themselves going off post to Lime Kiln Theater, a popular concert venue near Lexington, to conduct a topographical survey for potential grading that would allow for an expansion of seating. It was the first time that participants in the civil engineering STP class had done a real-world surveying project.

“We mostly work on the Parade Ground,” said Ackerman, who taught the surveying class for the fourth time this summer.

This year, though, there was a request from Lime Kiln for assistance.

Two civil engineering majors – Zachary Pokrywka ’18 and Corris Atkins ’18 – had already completed an independent study in the spring that involved surveying at the theater, so the 18 soon-to-be cadets in Ackerman’s class built off their work.

“It was a hands-on, real world project that cadets could really engage in,” Ackerman noted. “They loved it.”

Ackerman also pointed out that projects such as this allow cadets to give back to the community and that the work at Lime Kiln was almost tailor-made for cadet participation. “It’s a small enough project that we can get cadets involved in,” he stated. “It’s close enough that cadets can access, and it’s a nonprofit that really adds to the likeability of Lexington.

It’s enjoyed by the community.”

“The STP picnic is a great opportunity to begin the education process with the new cadets about the voracity and the tremendous reach the VMI network truly has,” said Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer.

2018-Issue 4

In conjunction with the VMI Chaplain’s Office, the VMI Alumni Association sponsors the annual Summer Training Program picnic.

VMI photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

In Mallory Hall, home to VMI’s applied mathematics department, STP participants enrolled in Math 101 found themselves trying out a new curriculum for the very first time. Under development for the past two years, “Math that Matters – Math for the Modern World” debuted this summer in a class taught by Lt. Col. Meagan Herald, Ph.D., associate professor of applied mathematics. The course is designed to teach computational and analytical skills by asking students to tackle real-world problems.

The 20 students enrolled in the course put their math skills to work trying to find out if cadets are becoming more or less fit over time, by comparing data between the 2007 and 2017 administrations of the VMI fitness test and taking into account that standards for the test have changed over time.

“It’s one of those open-ended questions that there’s not one answer to,” said Col. Troy Siemers, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Applied Mathematics.

Getting away from the sense that math problems only have one answer that is right or wrong is one of the goals of “Math That Matters,” Herald and Siemers agreed.

“By the end of the course, they’re comfortable with open-ended questions and defending their answers,” Herald noted.

The course was purposely interactive, with students working in groups or with partners almost all of the time. Answers were delivered by PowerPoint presentations or written reports. For the cadet fitness question, students were asked to write a letter to Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, outlining and defending their conclusions.

When asked, students said they’d enjoyed the class and gotten a lot out of it.

“I liked the group part of class,” said William Taylor ’22. “It’s easier to get help in a group, and I learned better when I was helping others.”

Classmate Emma Flora ’22 agreed, saying, “Instead of just sitting and listening to lectures, we got to learn through a hands-on style. We got to be creative and write papers in math class.”

This year’s STP group numbered 215, up from 190 in 2017, said Capt.

John E. “Ned” Riester ’78, Ph.D., who has directed the summer program for the past 13 years.

“We had a great group of kids, and the [cadet] counselors were wonderful,” Riester commented. “It all went well.”

21

On Post

Matriculation Day 2018

22

VMI Alumni Review

Photos by Micalyn Miller and Molly Rolon, VMI Alumni Agencies.

On Post

2018-Issue 4

23

On Post

COW Teaches Persistence, Personal Growth Through Adversity

by Mary Price, VMI Communications & Marketing

There’s usually not a lot to be gained by intentionally making teenagers mad, tired and scared. But with the College Orientation Workshop, that’s precisely the goal, and one that’s been changing lives for 31 years.

COW, as the program is known, is a non-VMI program that is held each summer at VMI with the aim of taking high school-age minority males – many from low-income families – and exposing them to a four-week structured program that will stretch their limits mentally and physically.

Since its inception in 1987, the program has been run by Eugene Williams ’74, the first African-American to serve on VMI’s Board of Visitors.

“There’s much emphasis on character,” said Williams, who returns to Lexington each summer from his Maryland home to lead COW. That’s where the mad, tired and scared part comes in. “All of us will be mad at some point, tired at some point, scared at some point,” Williams commented. “But we’ll still have to operate effectively. How do you teach somebody how to operate when they’re mad, tired and scared? You can’t do it by just telling them.”

Not surprisingly, COW teaches overcoming adversity the same way VMI does – by giving plentiful doses of it. COW participants are required to get up early and do physical training before being allowed to shower and have breakfast. Then, it’s off to class. There’s a class in mathematics and another in English, with a strong emphasis on communications and public speaking. There’s also a class on note taking and study skills, and another on financial literacy.

The boys are also required to complete CPR/AED training, along with a community service project. This year’s project is collecting shoes for Soles 4 Souls, a group that collects shoes for those in need.

“We give them more work than they can do,” said Williams.

The boys are also required to write in a journal each day, and if they don’t, they get disciplined for it just the way a cadet would be. “Do-rights” take the form of physical exercise.

“It’s punishment, but it’s punishment where you are getting stronger from it,” Williams noted. “It’s not frivolous. There’s no corporal punishment.”

The physical training and classwork work together to make COW participants mad and tired – but scared requires more. That’s why they go rappelling, do high ropes courses and climb House Mountain.

“We do this to show them that when you are in those states – mad, tired, scared – you cannot give up,” Williams emphasized. “You can’t get a bad attitude. You still have to produce, and do so in a quality way ... That’s the secret sauce of COW.” It works. Approximately 75 percent of COW participants go on to enroll in college, although Williams has no way of tracking how many graduate from college.

He does know that although only 3 percent of COW participants attend VMI, of that 3 percent, 85 percent will graduate.

Success stories abound, including one of a boy who came to COW in 1988 and then went on to Morehouse College in Atlanta. Down the road, he went to work in the admissions office at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. To this day, his parents are so grateful for COW that they send Williams a sizable donation to support the program each year.

It’s money that’s desperately needed, as the program receives no state

24

The College Orientation Workshop, a four-week program which exposes high school age minority males to challenges, has been run by Eugene Williams ’74 since its beginning in 1987. VMI photo

by Kelly Nye. support whatsoever. It’s funded exclusively by private donations. Families of participants are not required to pay anything up front, although they are invited afterward to make a donation if they are in a position to do so. The program’s only fundraiser is a yearly golf tournament, held each May at the Country Club of Virginia in Richmond.

Despite COW’s success, enrollment has stayed small, usually around 30 boys a year. This year, there were only 21, a drop that Williams attributes to lax parenting and teenagers’ unwillingness to give up their cell phones.

During the COW program, participants are allowed to have phones only on their weekends.

COW participants come from a variety of ethnic backgrounds, mainly African-American, but with a mix of Hispanic and Asian ethnicities as well. And despite the program’s stated intention of promoting minority achievement, three Caucasians have attended COW over the years, mostly because their parents asked that they be included.

According to Williams, the three Caucasians had no problems with being the minorities themselves at COW. “Kids don’t have issues with race,” he stated. “It’s adults who have those issues.”

Not surprisingly, making COW run smoothly involves help from all over the VMI community. Capt. Chad Joyce and Col. Jimmy Coale, Ph.D., are instrumental to conducting physical training, and Col. Sam Ratcliffe ’74, former director of career services, has taught the career exploration and study skills class ever since COW started. Cadets are hired as counselors and Williams takes care to hire a mix of races and genders.

“These boys need healthy relationships with women,” he said of the boys’ interactions with female cadets.

In many ways, teenagers’ worlds have changed vastly since COW began over three decades ago. Walkmen have given way to streaming music services, and social media binds teens together in a way that teen magazines and notes passed in class never could. But one thing hasn’t changed: The need for a challenge that will inspire and motivate teens to do more and be more than they ever thought possible. “[COW is] a combination of physical challenges and demanding requirements to help people grow into their better selves,” said Williams.

VMI Alumni Review

On Post

Study Examines Caloric Cost of the Rat Line

by Ashlie Walter, VMI Communications & Marketing At the end of the Rat Line, cadets are definitely more physically fit, but at what cost? According to a research project helmed by Bethany King ’18 and Capt. Katie Baur, physical education instructor, the answer includes an average weight loss of 4 pounds, substantial caloric deficiencies and a lack of sleep.

The pair recruited 15 male cadets and measured what they ate, how much they exercised, and the number of hours slept during their first semester at VMI. To measure the number of calories burned off during exercise and hours slept, the cadets were given Polar M200 fitness trackers.

Calories eaten were measured by pictures taken of all their food. The rats were also given a fitness test before and after the semester.

“We found some good things. Significantly, the caloric deficit during Hell Week,” King said of the days following Matriculation. “Rats weren’t in an optimal state of training, they were in a catabolic state and they lost weight because of this.”

Those rats also lost muscle mass, not fat, which could reduce the amount of optimal training, Baur said.

On average, the participants burned about 4,500 calories daily over the eight days following Matriculation and an average of 6,500 calories on the three toughest days. Despite consuming about 3,700 calories on average, they were still burning more than they were eating. That imbalance was lessened as the semester went on.

The two points in time when the data from the trackers was collected were after Matriculation Week and again in late October and early

Bethany King ’18 presents her poster on the Rat Line caloric study during the undergraduate research symposium April 18. VMI photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

November. The rats lost a significant amount of weight during the first interval. The losses proved to be temporary.

“It seemed Hell Week was intense but it corrected itself. They gained the weight back,” King said.

Baur noted that though their protein intake was on target, their carbohydrate intake was low for the amount of training they were doing. The optimal ratio for carbohydrate intake for athletes is 60 to 70 percent of calories, while the rats were getting an average of 53 percent.

While the rats were learning to adapt to their new routine, King said she was learning how to conduct the research and adapt to the unexpected.

“We planned and planned but something always came up. We originally had a schedule for

Rats charge a hill on North Post during Rat Crucible, one of the most physically demanding days of Matriculation Week. VMI photo by Kelly Nye.

2018-Issue 4

them to charge the watches but we had to track some people down because these are human subjects,” King said.

Baur added the hardest part was working around VMI’s strict schedule. The rats came in when they had time to do the treadmill fitness test, while at other colleges the optimal research method would dictate subjects take the test first thing in the morning.

As for sleep, the trackers noted an average of only six hours of sleep a night, which is less than the optimal seven to nine hours for their age group, King said.

“We can speculate that the structure here was a factor, especially during Hell Week. They are up at 5:30 a.m., going nonstop until 10:30 p.m. or 11 p.m. Even when they start classes, the rats are up at 6:15 a.m. for chores and they go to bed at taps at 11:30 p.m.,” King said.

The study did find the rats experienced significant improvements in cardiorespiratory fitness.

King said they still have other parts of the study to wrap up, such as a questionnaire to all study participants on their satisfaction with the food they ate and any injuries or illness they endured. Once completed, they hope to publish their findings. Also in the future, Baur said she hopes to continue the study but with only athletes, women, or look at just the caloric cost of Matriculation Week.

The researchers noted that one goal of the strenuous Rat Line is not just to improve the rats’ fitness but to test them mentally.

“There are other goals of the Rat Line, not just getting them physically fit,” Baur said.

25

On Post

Promotions, Installation Mark Beginning of Academic Year

by Mary Price, VMI Communications & Marketing

Dallas Clark ’99, left, director of finance, administration and support; and Bob Moreschi, center, dean of the faculty; were both promoted to brigadier general at the general faculty meeting Aug. 21. The meeting also included an assumption of responsibility ceremony for William T. Sowers, right, Corps and Institute sergeant major. VMI photos

by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

At the general faculty meeting kicking off the new academic year, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, announced the promotions of two longtime faculty and staff members and the installation of a new sergeant major.

Promoted to brigadier general, effective Aug. 21, were Robert “Bob” Moreschi, former head of the Department of Economics and Business and now deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty, and Dallas Clark ’99, director of finance, administration and support.

Introducing Moreschi, who joined the economics and business faculty in 2002 and became department head in 2013, Peay commented, “We are thrilled with [his] selection as the 11th deputy superintendent for academics and dean of the faculty. … I think we’re very fortunate to have just the right gentleman to lead our academic team in the years ahead.”

During his 16 years in Lexington, Moreschi has undertaken many leadership roles both on and off post. Not only has he served as the John and Jane Roberts Institute professor in free enterprise business, but he has also been faculty representative to the VMI Foundation board of trustees and adviser to the Cadet Investment Group.

His community activities include serving as

26

a member of the audit and oversight committee of Kendal at Lexington and as treasurer of Lexington Presbyterian Church. He is a ruling elder of Lexington Presbyterian Church, was a board member of the United Way of Lexington/ Rockbridge and is a longtime member of the Lexington Kiwanis Club.

In his remarks following the ceremonial pinning on of insignia, Moreschi stressed the necessity of teamwork to keep the Institute moving forward.

“I have the enviable task of leading an academic enterprise that has been transformed in the past 15 plus years into one of national and international renown,” he commented. “Of course, our work is never done and we must strive to continuously improve. To do that, our energetic and creative faculty must work together, always keeping our focus on the Institute and our cadets.”

Clark is one of five brothers, all of whom matriculated to the Institute from their Salt Lake City, Utah, home, and all of whom went on to graduate from VMI. After earning a degree in economics and business, Clark received a master’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and shortly thereafter came to work for the VMI Alumni Association, where he

oversaw new cadet recruiting, chapter promotions and alumni placement.

In 2006, Clark became the Institute planning officer. In that role, he was responsible for strategic planning, the post facilities master plan, and emergency preparedness. After a brief stint at Southern Virginia University as vice president and chief advancement officer, he returned to VMI in February 2017 in his current role, which includes oversight of a wide variety of post operations ranging from the treasurer’s office to the VMI Museum System to the post hospital to government relations.

“All of us who have known [Clark] over these many years have such respect for his style, his maturity, his intelligence and – always – [his] approach to teamwork,” Peay commented. “We’re in good hands with this officer leading a very large, important and sophisticated operation.”

For his part, Clark gave credit to the Institute. “I feel, in so many respects, like I am a son of the Institute, having spent the vast majority of my career here,” he noted. “I am the [beneficiary] of the education that you as the faculty gave to me. … I’m very grateful for the education that I received here at the Institute.”

VMI Alumni Review

On Post The general faculty meeting was also the occasion of the assumption of responsibility ceremony and passing of the colors to Sgt. Maj. William T. Sowers, sergeant major to the Institute and the Corps of Cadets. Sowers, a 30-year veteran of the Marine Corps, who retired from that branch of the service in June, fills the position formerly occupied by Sgt. Maj. John Neel.

Sowers’ last posting before retirement was as 1st Marine Division sergeant major at Camp Pendleton, California. During his career, he served five combat tours: One in Operation Desert Shield/Desert Storm, one in Operation Iraqi Freedom and three in Operation Enduring Freedom.

“In some ways, he is coming home,” said Peay of Sowers, who was born in Martinsville, Virginia, and graduated from Patrick County High School.

“We could not be more honored, proud and excited to have Sergeant Major Sowers serve VMI in this terribly important position as Institute sergeant major and sergeant major to the Corps of Cadets,” said Peay.

Sowers likewise expressed appreciation for his new role and those he would be working alongside. “I’m honored and privileged to be part of this prestigious Institute,” he said. “I truly look forward to working with each and every one of you as we prepare and develop these young men and women into educated, physically fit, self-disciplined, honorable leaders for the future of our great nation.”

VMI Alumni Provide Crucial Corps Liaison Work as CLE Interns Since 2012, the VMI Center for Leadership and Ethics has been employing VMI alumni as interns while they await active duty commitments or acceptance into graduate school.

This position is ideal for a recent graduate who has proven leadership and academic success during his or her cadetship. The center is able to capitalize on “their knowledge of the VMI system and their experience as a cadet to further enhance our programming and offerings,” explained Col. Pat Looney, CLE deputy director.

“This center handles a lot of events and programs that are not visible to the average cadet during his or her time at VMI. As a newly hired CLE intern, we are exposed to all of these aspects of the Center and have the opportunity to play an integral role in helping them all run smoothly,” said Lt. Patrick Piedad ’16.

The internship, usually one per academic year, is a highly-engaging experience that provides valuable insights on teamwork in an office environment, organizing and hosting events, and leading workplace and higher education projects. Each of these activities affects the center’s co-curricular programming while supporting the CLE’s daily activities and long-term initiatives.

Lt. Rori Stubbs ’17 said, “As an intern, I gained an appreciation of how the staff and faculty work with the cadets to make the conferences happen. On top of that, getting to know the caliber of speakers we have who take time out of their day to come and talk with us is a really humbling experience. I never realized all that they have done and how much they want to share with us.”

Alumni have worked on such activities as editing the Leadership Inventory publication, which contains an exhaustive inventory of every leadership position at VMI, and researching scenarios for the CLE’s Ethical Leadership Challenge small-group exercises for the annual leadership conference. This past summer, the CLE welcomed Lts. Matt Esnardo ’18 and Michael Flury ’17.

Past alumni interns are Jordan Iida ’12, Ryan Hillman ’13, Christopher Wisnowski ’13, James Ethington ’14, Liam Healy ’15, Brice Scott ’15, Olivia Emery ’17, Stubbs, Michael Flury ’17 and Matt Esnardo ’18.

Spring 2019 CLE Events Feb. 22-23, 2019 Commonwealth Cyber Fusion and Virginia Cyber Cup Competition This invitation-only event is for Virginia community colleges and universities that are National Centers of Academic Excellence in cyber security. Students participate in cyber challenges, learn from industry professionals, network and attend a cyber job fair. Administrators from these programs mentor their students, network with industry and attend faculty roundtable sessions. This event is co-hosted by Sen. Mark R. Warner and Gov. Ralph Northam ’81.

March 26-28, 2019 30th Annual Environment Virginia Symposium Created by the late Capt. Ron Erchul, this is the commonwealth’s premier environmental conference and provides all sectors of this industry a place to meet and engage in a mutual exchange of ideas and information. The event also features a session on career opportunities where cadets and other college students may hear what kinds of skills and credentials they need to acquire in order to be an environmental professional.

April 12-13, 2019 Business Leadership and Innovation Summit BLIS is a two-day conference which provides a platform for VMI alumni entrepreneurs and business leaders to come together to network, build alliances and share experiences. This event will provide an opportunity for alumni to educate, mentor and inspire the next generation of VMI entrepreneurs.

Spring 2019 Leader-in-Residence Exact dates are still being determined for this spring’s Leader-inResidence program. Please check the CLE website at https://www. vmi.edu/about/center-for-leadership-and-ethics/upcoming-events/ for updates. Visit http://www.vmi.edu/cle to learn more about CLE programs or to link to the CLE conferences website and social media.

2018-Issue 4

27

Athletics

Chris Bergmann, Keydet head women’s soccer coach, left, motivates the team during their 4-0 victory over Delaware State Aug. 23.

He is in his fourth season coaching at VMI. Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

Women’s Soccer Coaches: “Unmatched Personal Investment”

by Molly Rolon, Assistant Editor

“When I took the job, I was wondering, ‘How do you find a woman student athlete who wants to be here at VMI?’” Chris Bergmann, Keydet head women’s soccer coach, recalled. “What I’ve seen is that people want different now. They don’t just want an ordinary college experience ... they want a college experience that’s going to pay dividends – that’s going to equip them. Well, VMI is the spot for that.”

Bergmann, in his fourth season at the Institute, continued, “for the last couple of years, we’ve had to say no to [recruits].”

A challenge particular to soccer, and all fall sports at VMI, is that the sport’s season coincides with the Rat Line. “[The Rat Line] makes it the hardest Division I soccer experience in the country. I’m just amazed at how hard [players] work and the success that they’ve had,” Bergmann said.

Bergmann said he is always figuring out ways to make his team better, from how much depth to have on his roster to the distribution of athletic scholarship dollars in the best possible way to help potential players get the aid they need. VMI’s atypical experience is not an easy one, and Bergmann pointed out that shallow doesn’t cut it at the Institute: “We aim for a 30-player roster. We can go a little above or below. What we’ve seen is because of the rigors of VMI – academically, mentally, physically – you must have depth here.”

Balancing scholarship dollars is a complex process. Each coach controls athletic scholarship dollars, raised through the Keydet Club’s diligent efforts. Additional aid for students is available through a variety 28

of avenues: Government need-based aid, determined from a family’s income; academic scholarships, handled through the dean’s office; and ROTC scholarships. The NCAA has specific rules on scholarships.

Some sports can only offer athletes full scholarships, where other sports – women’s soccer is one – have a number of equivalencies.

One equivalency is monetarily equal to one full-ride scholarship. The NCAA allows the funds to be divided between any number of players on the team, so long as the equivalency dollar amount is not surpassed.

In addition to strategizing the best use for athletic funds, Bergmann has to be mindful that need-based aid counts toward his equivalency cap.

ROTC and academic scholarships, however, are counted separately.

The process is time-consuming, but Bergmann excels at the longrange planning necessary to not only follow NCAA rules but to build and maintain a successful program while setting up his athletes for success. He looks at both what the player needs, and “the overall fit for the institution.”

Fit for the Institute’s way of life is key to cadet-athlete’s success. For most college coaches, recruiting involves the obvious evaluation of a potential player’s athletic abilities, followed by academics. Coaches at VMI have to consider another aspect that is difficult to quantify: Is the young person – and his or her family – completely on board with the entire VMI experience, and committed to sticking it out for four years?

Once communication has begun with a potential recruit, “we get them on post,” Bergmann said. “We get them here and they see every

VMI Alumni Review

Athletics

Bergmann, left, has three assistant coaches, including his wife, Kelly.

The couple previously coached both separately and together at the college level before coming to VMI. Danielle Pappas and Erin Dierickx comprise the rest of the team’s coaching staff. part of the experience ... The last step is when they have an official visit and they stay in barracks. We want them to be here during the Rat Line. We don’t hold anything back. We want the entire experience.

Because we’ve seen that if you hold a little bit back, it doesn’t work.

This place is crazy, exciting, [not] ordinary. If you don’t see it, you can’t really prep yourself for it. We tell them: ‘You need to be all in and you need every ounce of energy to make it through this place.’ There’s nothing worse than where you have a student athlete sit down say, ‘I didn’t know about this.’ We talk to them about VMI’s advantages: They’re going to get leadership skills, make amazing connections and they’ll leave prepared for life.”

The Institute’s citizen-soldier philosophy lines up with Bergmann’s personal philosophy and coaching style. Although the military aspect of VMI was new to him, “there was a lot of alignment in our coaching

philosophy with the discipline, with the focus, with the academic piece,” he noted. The “our” comes from the fact that one of the team’s three assistant coaches is Bergmann’s wife, Kelly – a two-sport former college athlete with previous college-level coaching experience herself. Kelly added: “We fully believe in what’s going on here. For us ... we have to be at a place like that, a place where we believe in it.”

The Bergmanns’ personal philosophy is “Unmatched personal investment.” Not only does Bergmann feel a responsibility to be a “positive male role model” for his players, he teaches them the importance of being a positive role model by investing in the people and community around them. The Bergmanns run multiple children’s summer soccer camps, and offer a free annual soccer clinic that reaches hundreds of area children through the Rockbridge Area Recreation Organization.

The entire team turns out for the soccer clinic.

One of the mottos in the team’s locker room is, “Stand together,” Bergmann said. “Part of that philosophy is ‘How do you make those around you better?’ That is ultimately making your community better, your city better, your family better and that is really what we try to do. We want to be ultimately encouraging, but hold a standard, too. And that’s from the little kids all the way through the college program.”

Danielle Pappas – going on her second year – and new addition Erin Dierickx round out the women’s soccer coaching staff. Pappas brings a wealth of experience from other programs and an expertise in goal keeping. Dierickx has a master’s degree in exercise science and “is helping bring depth to our training model in both nutrition and recovery,” Bergmann said. “Having a strong staff creates great support for the student-athletes and a dynamic training environment.”

The Bergmanns came to VMI in 2015 from Lake Forest College in the Chicago area, where Bergmann was the head coach for the men’s soccer team and Kelly served as his assistant. Last year, Keydet women’s soccer continued to build and improve, posting the team’s second-highest postseason seed ever – at No. 5 – and advanced directly to the SoCon quarterfinals for the first time since the Institute joined the conference.

The Bergmanns, back right, aided by the entire team and team staff, run a free annual soccer clinic for area children through the Rockbridge Area Recreation Organization. The clinic reaches hundreds of local children, and is a concrete example of the Bergmanns’ personal philosophy – unmatched personal investment – in not only the team, but the local area. Photo courtesy Chris Bergmann.

2018-Issue 4

29

Athletics

MLB Drafts Three Keydets

Eaton ’19 Cadet Nathan Eaton ’19, an infielder/pitcher, was selected by the Kansas City Royals in the 21st round of the 2018 MLB Draft, held June 4, 2018, via conference call. Eaton joins Cadet Josh Winder ’19, who was selected by the Minnesota Twins in the seventh round, and Cadet Matt Pita ’19, selected by the New York Yankees in the 12th round, as VMI draft selections. This marks the first time since 2008 and only the third time in school history that VMI has had that many draft picks in a single season.

Eaton, who played in all but one game in 2018, hit .287 as a redshirt sophomore. He led off in all 52 of his games played and tallied 51 runs scored, eight homers and – most impressively of all – a school record 36 stolen bases.

Eaton ranked as high as second in Division I in stolen bases at various points during the year, and he earned Second Team All-SoCon (Coaches’ Team) for his efforts, which also included making 17 appearances on the mound. He went 2-1 with a 4.44 ERA and held opponents to a .212 batting average.

With the selection of Eaton, VMI has had three players drafted before the 25th round for the first time in school history.

Winder, a right-handed pitcher, became the third-highest draft pick in VMI baseball history, trailing only Andy Beasley (fourth, 1990) and Ryan Glynn (fourth, 1995).

After a year that saw Winder named Second Team All-SoCon, he sits second in school history in both strikeouts and walks

30

Winder ’19 per nine innings, fourth in games started, and as the school’s all-time leader in strikeouts per nine innings. “It’s an honor to be selected by the Minnesota Twins,” said Winder. “Playing professional baseball has been my dream since I was a little kid, and for that to come true is unbelievable. Thank you to my family, friends, teammates and coaches for helping me to get where I am today.”

Winder is the first player to be drafted out of VMI by the Twins and only the third Keydet selected by an American League Central team.

Pita, an outfielder, wrapped up a 2nd Class year season that saw him finish in the top-five in the SoCon in 10 different categories, including leading the league in slugging percentage and total bases and finishing second in batting average. He also was named First Team AllSoCon and First Team All-ECAC, becoming the first player in VMI history to accomplish the ECAC feat.

Pita set a new school record in total bases, hit the first inside the park home run by a VMI player since 2008 and broke the single-game VMI record with six stolen bases in an April game against Longwood University.

“I’m happy and excited to be a part of such a great organization,” said Pita. “Putting on the pinstripes as a New York Yankee has always been a dream of mine, but I couldn’t have gotten to where I am without all the support I’ve received from my family, coaches and friends. I can’t wait to get started and be a Yankee.” With

the selection, Pita becomes the first VMI player to ever be drafted by the Yankees.

Pita was also named Third Team All-American by the American Baseball Coaches Association, was one of only two SoCon players on the three team listing and was the only player from the state of Virginia honored. He is only the third player in school history to earn All-American honors, joining Rob Dickinson ’13 (Honorable Mention) and Matt Winn ’14 (Third Team), who were honored by the Louisville Slugger AllAmerican Teams in 2013 and 2015, respectively.

(Editor’s Note: Eaton and Winder photos by Jimmy Mitchell. Pita photo by Carlos Morales.)

Pita ’19 VMI Alumni Review

Athletics

Basketball Legend Carter ’78 Elected to SoCon Hall of Fame

Ron Carter ’78, the dazzling playmaking guard/forward who helped lead VMI basketball to two Southern Conference championships and deep runs into the NCAA Tournament in the mid-70s, was announced as a 2018 inductee into the SoCon Sports Hall of Fame.

Carter becomes the first VMI inductee into the SoCon Hall of Fame, which began in 2009 and joins 2018 inductees Mike Ayers (ETSU/Wofford), Susan Gardner Mayhorn (Western Carolina), Chal Port (The Citadel), Les Robinson (The Citadel/ ETSU) and Debbie Southern (Furman). Carter joins the ranks of other notable SoCon inductees Davidson College alum and current NBA star Steph Curry and Wake Forest alumnus and golf legend Arnold Palmer.

The first VMI cadet-athlete to have his jersey retired, Carter scored 2,228 career points for the Keydets, graduating with seven school records to his name – including a 26.3 points per game scoring average his 1st Class year. Carter was inducted into VMI’s Hall of Fame in 1989.

Carter led the Keydets to SoCon regular-season and tournament titles in 197576 and 1976-77. Included in those consecutive NCAA appearances were VMI’s runs to the Elite Eight in 1976 and the Sweet 16 in 1977. A three-time first-team all-conference selection and all-tournament pick, Carter was the league’s player of the year in 1976-77 and 1977-78 and the SoCon tournament’s Most Outstanding Player in 1976.

Carter became VMI’s first graduate to play in the NBA after being selected in the second round of the 1978 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers. He played the 1978-79 season with the Lakers, when the team finished the season 47-35, and third in the NBA Pacific Division. In the 1979-80 season, he played for the Indiana Pacers.

2018-Issue 4

Above: Hoops great Ron Carter ’78 during his Keydet days.

Below: Carter returned to post for his 40th Reunion in April 2017.

31

Events To Inform, Engage and Inspire: The Volunteer Leadership Conference

VMI was buzzing with activity June 15-16, 2018, as alumni leaders from around the country gathered for the Volunteer Leadership Conference. Held at the Institute’s Center for Leadership and Ethics, the conference offered opportunities to network, connect with old friends, learn from best practices and explore strategies on how to better inform, engage and inspire the VMI alumni base and the broader VMI family. For the first time, the VMI Alumni Agencies combined volunteer leader groups.

“At our very core, we must first endeavor to inform our alumni about the advances of VMI. We must seek to engage all alumni through the class and chapter programs, leading to strengthened bonds of VMI brotherhood,” said Steve Maconi, Agencies chief executive officer.

“Then we must work to inspire support for the health and sustained excellence of the VMI mission. This joint conference was an important step to advance the conversation of how to best reach our objectives.”

The conference united chapter leaders, regional directors, directors at large, class agents and Alumni Association board members, providing them the chance to learn from each other and to take advantage of a broader spectrum of ideas, strategies and shared purpose.

“The main benefit of attending the annual leadership gatherings is spending time with other class agents and trading thoughts and ideas,” said Mike Ogden ’79, class agent for the Class of 1979. “From my perspective, being a class agent is all about keeping the class connected

32

with each other and with VMI. Having a chance to meet with other class agents has over the years proven to be most interesting and valuable in making and keeping those connections.”

The combined conference allowed the Alumni Agencies to “offer an enhanced opportunity for our volunteer leaders to learn and grow,” said Thom Brashears ’95, Alumni Association chief operating officer. Not only did the sessions enable learning from each other, but volunteer leaders had the opportunity to meet with the professional Agencies staff that supports alumni engagement and Institute advancement, said retired U.S. Navy Capt. Asa Page ’79, Alumni Association president.

Max Hopkins ’97, San Diego chapter president, found value in talking with other alumni about “how we can assist each other, and discuss different ideas for events.” Hopkins, who has previously served as an alumni chapter president, said this was his first time attending a volunteer conference. Although he is experienced in chapter leadership, he sees particular benefits for volunteers who are new in their roles to learn about the valuable support provided by the Agencies and how the different arms of the Agencies work together in support of VMI. The conference covered two days, plus a reception for early arrivals Thursday evening. Friday was packed full of events to help volunteer leaders. The morning began with a breakfast to give time to connect with old friends, then each member of the combined Agencies’ senior leadership team addressed the group. Maconi was the first to speak,

VMI Alumni Review

Events

Class agents pose for a photo during the June 15-16, 2018, Volunteer Leadership Conference. All types of volunteers attended the conference, where they heard from Alumni Agencies leadership, networked and attended various breakout sessions. Facing page: Jerry Acuff ’71 was an inspirational speaker at the VLC Friday evening dinner. Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies. thanking the volunteer leaders for their service and challenging them to continue their good work. The group of more than 90 people broke up into four round robin sessions which lasted through the afternoon, with a break for lunch and networking.

Charlie Ramsburg ’66 found the conference an improvement from past years in many areas, praising the content and the way the sessions were moderated. “[The conference] showed the evolution of the three agencies working together. The establishment of the CEO position ... there are concrete signs of that having a positive impact now,” said Ramsburg, who has served in numerous roles within the Alumni Association, including chapter president and regional director. Ramsburg also noted that the conference was well-scheduled, and participants did not feel rushed between sessions. “The networking that takes place in between as people move from session to session is so important,” Ramsburg noted, also remembering good counsel given by Brashears before the sessions began: “Thom Brashears said, ‘Increase your network while you’re here. Talk to someone you’ve never talked to before.’ And that’s really good advice.”

Volunteer leaders had the opportunity to rotate through all four sessions: Guidance for using social media and the Alumni Association to engage chapters and classes; how to get involved with admissions

2018-Issue 4

and career networking; reunion planning and communications; and iModules updates. “The agenda of the four breakout areas were spoton,” Page said. “I think they were perfect topics.”

Through the sessions, Hopkins said he learned “how much support is really there for a chapter president,” and that when it comes to getting help from the Alumni Association, “really, the sky is the limit.”

The reunion planning session was “tremendously helpful,” said Walt Judd ’69, who serves as class agent for his class. Judd is in the midst of planning for his class’ 50th Reunion in April 2019. In the sessions, participants learned lessons from alumni who had just completed reunions and heard from people who were in thick of planning for upcoming fall reunions.

Following the sessions, participants came together for a group panel moderated by Ramsburg. Woody Woodward ’92 and Judd represented class agents on the panel, while Walt Chalkley ’72, P.X. English ’73 and Hopkins were able to speak about chapter leadership. Chalkley recently came off his term as regional director for Florida, and English is the president of the Upstate South Carolina/Pigsah, North Carolina Chapter.

The first day was topped off with a dinner in the CLE Hall of Valor. The event was highlighted by speaker Jerry Acuff ’71, who spoke about his love for the Institute, goal setting and plans for VMI’s future through the Alumni Agencies. Former Alumni Association president Bob Louthan ’82 and his wife, Kathy, were presented with tokens of appreciation for their service to the Agencies and VMI. Karen Page, Page’s wife, was also honored with flowers.

Saturday morning following breakfast, Col. William Wanovich ’87, commandant of cadets, gave a riveting, comprehensive presentation on the state of the institute. Class agents were treated to an interactive session with Amy Goetz, Agencies chief communications officer. Goetz spent a few minutes talking about her vision for the communications team and then shared some updates about the Alumni Review’s organization and content.

Following Goetz’s presentation, Tom Hickey ’68, 1968 class agent, shared some of his experiences as a long-serving class agent. Hickey has served as class agent since December 1999 and has helped usher his class through four reunions, including their 50th in April.

Ogden called Hickey’s presentation “the most helpful” of the conference, partially since 1968 had just finished their 50th Reunion. “Tom’s perspective, priorities, and the resources and tools he uses along with the questions and conversations that followed were invaluable,” he said. “It was a great exchange of ideas, methods and comparing and contrasting how each of us deals with aspects of being a class agent.”

The focus of Hickey’s presentation was how he harnesses various resources and uses numerous tools to accomplish his priorities as a class agent – which include building and maintaining the bonds within his class and supporting fundraising in support of VMI. Hickey advised the other class agents to make full use of the Alumni Review as a means of communication, to embrace regular mail, email and social media, and to devote substantial attention to the organization and execution of reunions.

“Alumni take a lot of time and put in a lot of miles to participate in this event. It speaks volumes about their commitment to serve their brother rats, fellow alumni and the Institute. I hope that next year we have even more of our leaders partake of this always excellent experience,” concluded John Wranek ’85, former VMI Alumni Association director of reunions.

33

Events

Central North Carolina/Raleigh Chapter Events The Central North Carolina/Raleigh Chapter held a senior alumni breakfast in July 2018. Pictured were, from left, front row, John Kuchnia ’57, Dixie Walker ’70, Ed Andrews ’70, Bill Gibson ’65, Rick Hening ’75, Bill Murchison ’70 and Ray Brooks ’76. Back row: Jay Lucas ’85, Ed Roney ’60, Bruce McCreedy ’56, Larry Wilson ’62, Pete Shelley ’74, Mike Kelly ’73 and Charlie Ramsburg ’66. Ramsburg, Brooks and Lucas were visitors to the chapter.

The Central North Carolina/Raleigh Chapter held a New Market Day event May 15, 2018.

Mike and Pat Kelly ’73 hosted the event at their home in Raleigh, North Carolina. Pictured were, from left, John Kuchnia ’57; Loretta Kuchnia; Larry Parker ’59; Betsy Wilson; Susan Shelley; Larry Wilson ’62, president of the Central North Carolina-Raleigh chapter; Pete Shelley ’74; Laurie Turner; Paul Johnston ’61; Mike Kelly ’73; Pat Kelly; Bruce McCreedy ’56; Parky Parkman ’66; Mary Fran Parkman; Shirley McCreedy; Dorris Gibson; Bill Gibson ’65; Josh Frank ’99; Drew Turner ’72; Marla Parker; and Snookie Parker ’74.

Crystal Coast/Jacksonville Chapter Rat Send-Off

The Crystal Coast/Jacksonville Chapter held a rat send-off at the Calvary Lutheran Church in Jacksonville, North Carolina, July 15, 2018. Attendees included Stephen Skakandy ’01, chapter representative, and Kelly Mackenzie ’15.

34

VMI Alumni Review

Events

Fredericksburg/Quantico Chapter Rat Send-Off

The Fredericksburg/Quantico Chapter held a rat send-off at FOODE in Fredericksburg, Virginia, July 29, 2018. Approximately 80 people attended the event. “The weekend chosen worked out great, as it was just after STP ended and just before the fall athletes report for training,” said C.J. DeBernard ’94, chapter president. “Our chapter has a number of rats participating in football, track, lacrosse and women’s soccer, so having them able to join along with their families was great. In addition to the athletes, we have some outstanding young men and women entering with ROTC scholarships. I am very impressed with the character and credentials of the young men and women entering VMI this year from the Fredericksburg/ Quantico Chapter. I believe they will represent the Institute well.” Steve Maconi, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer, attended the event and provided an overview of VMI and answered questions.

Left photo: From left, front row, were C.J. DeBernard ’94, Bob Deaderick ’65, Mike Ohleger ’96 and Brad Wineman ’99. Row 2: Andy Tate ’92, Jack Wainwright ’81 and Jay Wainwright ’16.

Right photo: From left, front row, were Zack Farr, Kaylee Wedding, Kevin Kaczmar, Rowan Geukguezian and DeBernard. Row 2: Max Harper, Mariah Woods, Johnnie Walker, Nazir Lee and Robert Soderholm. Row 3: Liam Kauthen, D.J. Dennis, Alex Rodriguez, Wineman and Jack Wainwright. Row 4: Rafael Mas, Graham Ohleger, Tate, Ayden Jilson, Johnnie Thacker, Deaderick, Ohleger and Wainwright.

Pacific Northwest Chapter New Market Luncheon

The Pacific Northwest Chapter held a New Market luncheon at Ivar’s Salmon House in Seattle, Washington, May 20, 2018.

Joe Irby ’85, VMI Foundation major gifts officer, was the guest speaker. Pictured were, from left, Irby; Colin Sexton ’11; John Rushton ’11; Jason Cole ’00; Joe Girlando ’70; George Coulbourn ’60; Bruce Sawyer ’92; Matt Meyers ’01; and Pete Farmer ’68, chapter president. Seated: Herb Brasington ’68 and Randy Urmston ’66.

2018-Issue 4

35

Events

Palmetto Chapter Night at the Ballpark Event

The Palmetto Chapter held a night at the ballpark at Spirit Communications Park in Columbia, South Carolina, June 8, 2018. Meredith Houck, daughter of former VMI football coach John McKenna, joined the present VMI alumni. From 1953-65, McKenna coached Keydet footballers to five state titles and four conference titles. At least one of the alumni attending the game played under McKenna.

Pikes Peak and Rocky Mountain Chapters Host Joint Rat Send-Off

Seventy-one people attended the Pikes Peak and Rocky Mountain joint chapter rat send-off July 22, 2018. Incoming cadets present at the event were Sarah Anschutz, Gunnar Carlile, John-Marshall West and Trevor Weygandt. Holly Arnold was on post for STP, so her father attended in her place.

36

VMI Alumni Review

Events

Roanoke Chapter Rat Send-Off

Mike and Mimi Kemp ’90 held a rat sendoff for the Roanoke Chapter at their house in Salem, Virginia, July 19, 2018. Nearly 80 people attended, including eight rats and their families.

Southern Florida Chapter Gathers

The Southern Florida Chapter met for lunch May 19, 2018, at Mission BBQ in Weston, Florida.

In attendance were Scott Houser ’98, Jonathan Schwerer ’07, Philip Jones ’08, Billy Canedo ’91, Ryan Long ’15, Tom Myers ’63 and Richard Sullivan ’85.

2018-Issue 4

37

Events

St. Louis Chapter Gathers for New Market Day

St. Louis Chapter members gathered for New Market Day were, from left, Tim Bailey ’85, Gus Kline ’57, Harry Gore ’72, Fred Werth ’95, Dave Loduca ’81, M.B. Adelson ’73, Mike Burke ’73, Greg Wolven ’81, Louis Rucker ’86, Jay Virtue ’79 and Tony Hamilton ’79. Not pictured is Bob Whaley ’65. Out of town visitors were Adelson and his wife, Mary, from Florida; and Wolven and his wife, Ann, from Indiana. Kline led both the meal prayer and the New Market prayer, while Ann Wolven took photos. Wolven and Loduca paid a visit to Bellefontaine Cemetery, where two New Market veterans – Robert Pendleton ’867 and Alonzo Tardy ’867 – are buried.

Save the Date: Legacy Day Saturday, April 13, 2019

For more information, contact: T.J. Lighton ’15, Alumni Association program outreach officer, at 800/444-1839 x259 or tlighton@vmiaa.org.

38

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.

VMI Alumni Review

Events

Tampa Chapter New Market Day Gathering

Tampa alumni gathered to celebrate and honor New Market Day at the Hula Bay Club in Tampa, Florida. Those gathered told stories of cadet life, and dinner was followed with a New Market trivia challenge. The evening concluded with the traditional New Market Roll Call and the “Doxology.”

Left photo: From left, John Scott ’69, Nate Salatin ’09, Grace Bailey, Bob Bailey ’72, Phil Valenti ’66, Betty Valenti, Ann Lloyd and Cal Lloyd ’62.

Not pictured was Dennis Hill ’67.

Right photo: Hannah Hartley ’16; Megan Brandriff; Chris Brandriff ’06; Chip Chipley ’81; Bill Bird ’81; Mike Thompson ’11; and Denise, fiancée of Kevin Bocanegra ’11, who was not present.

Tampa Chapter First Rat Send-Off

The Tampa Chapter held a rat sendoff for incoming cadet Emily Grant at the Hula Bay Club in Tampa, Florida, June 27, 2018. Pictured were, from left, Dennis Hill ’67; Phil Valenti ’66; Bob Bailey ’72, chapter president; Kevin Bocanegra ’11; Grant; Hannah Harley ’16; Cal Lloyd ’62; Cadet Ben Wagner ’19; Todd Radford ’93; and John Freiermuth ’72.

2018-Issue 4

39

Events

Florida Volunteers Attend Leadership Conference

Representing Florida at the VMI Alumni Agencies Volunteer Leadership Conference in June 2018 were, from left, Sandy and Blake Thomas ’73, Al and Kathy Vicory ’74, Debbie and Walt Chalkley ’72, and Grace and Bob Bailey ’72.

Walt Chalkley ’72, outgoing Florida regional director, was presented a plaque from the Florida chapter presidents. Pictured were, from left, Blake Thomas ’73, incoming regional director; Chalkley; Bob Bailey ’72, Tampa chapter president; and Al Vicory ’74, The Villages Chapter president.

Valley Chapter Dinner Event

The newly invigorated Valley Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association gathered for their first event – dinner in the Virginia Museum of the Civil War at the New Market battlefield – May 12, 2018. Before dinner, Lt. Col. Troy Marshall, site director, gave a battlefield tour. S. Waite Rawls ’70, president of the American Civil War Museum Foundation, was the dinner speaker. Doug Marechal ’62, former president of the VMI Alumni Association, and Tyler “T.J.” Lighton ’15, VMI Alumni Association program outreach coordinator, worked for the past year to restart the chapter.

Other chapter events include an August 2018 rat send-off and a midwinter networking lunch in Harrisonburg.

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 sizeable

40

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.

VMI Alumni Review

Events

Wilmington Chapter Old Corps Celebrates New Market Day

The Wilmington Chapter Old Corps celebrated New Market Day with breakfast at the Boathouse Restaurant in Wilmington, North Carolina.

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 Brittney Matthews ’15, career networking officer, at bmatthews@vmiaa.org, to discover how you can find a rewarding career in the civilian workforce through networking with other alumni.

2018-Issue 4

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.

41

Progress The Institute Society: “Above the Ordinary, Constant and Generous”

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer Benjamin Franklin, American statesman and polymath, once observed that “ready money” is one of life’s most “faithful friends.”

Indeed, this applies to VMI – especially that which is received in the form of unrestricted funds.

Each year a segment of VMI alumni, family and friends step forward in a significant way to support VMI through unrestricted gifts. Their level of contribution distinguishes them as Institute Society members. This is no small deed.

“Unrestricted money is critically important for VMI,” explained Steve Maconi, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer, “for a very simple reason: It can be used where it is needed most.” In the complex world of higher education, opportunities present themselves on a regular basis and with funds at the ready, VMI can optimize their return. “Truly, members of the Institute Society demonstrate their trust and confidence in the leadership of VMI every year. They want VMI to be positioned to take advantage of opportunities or be prepared for unforeseen issues.”

When individuals give to unrestricted funds, they have literally changed lives and bolstered the experience for cadets directly and indirectly. In the past, VMI used the unrestricted money given by members of the Institute Society to provide scholarship support to cadets, helping them move from simply wanting to take on the challenges of the rigorous VMI system to being able to make that happen financially. Over time, however, increased giving to endowed scholarships allowed the Institute to redirect unrestricted money to other pressing needs such as faculty support.

“That is the beauty of unrestricted giving.’ said Maconi. “When one need is met, it can quickly translate to support in another area.

It bridges gaps.”

Often, the Institute Society’s members get involved through their reunions and keep up their support annually. John J. Wranek III ’85, former VMI Alumni Association director of reunions – who served for many years as the VMI Foundation director of annual and reunion giving – was responsible for reunion campaigns and the Foundation Fund, which

is the VMI Foundation’s annual effort to raise unrestricted money. “During reunion campaigns, we continually stress the importance of unrestricted funds to VMI. It is the same with major gifts, according to Warren J. Bryan ’71, VMI Foundation chief operating officer.

“Our major gift officers make it a point to ask those alumni and friends who are planning to make a substantial gift to VMI to consider an additional gift of unrestricted funds. While the focus is on unrestricted operational support through the Foundation Fund, donors of restricted gifts – those designated for a specific purpose, such as scholarships – have been recognized as members of the Institute Society, as well.”

Each year members are recognized for their “above the ordinary, constant and generous” giving, and the Agencies encourage others to do the same. They also have been recognized in a special way – for 44 years – at the Institute Society Dinner. The first of what has been a popular annual event was held in November 1974. Bryan, who began working at the VMI Foundation in 1976, remembers the event

The growing number of alumni and friends in The Institute Society has meant more unrestricted support for VMI – and more attendees at its annual recognition event. VMI photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

42

VMI Alumni Review

Progress when it was a small affair. “When it began, the attendees could fit into the activities room in Moody Hall. Now, we have hundreds of members and their guests who enjoy an amazing black-tie event that fills the Hall of Valor in Marshall Hall to capacity.”

Chad Correll ’94, part owner and executive vice president of the Chicago-area construction firm Executive Construction, is one of the hundreds of alumni and friends who are members of the Institute Society. Chad was inspired to become a cadet by his uncle, Mark Hall ’75. “I greatly admired his accomplishments and his commitment to VMI. So, when choosing a college, I knew VMI was the place for me.”

After graduation, Correll entered the construction business. There, as he expected, he found plenty of challenges and opportunities.

He also found that his VMI education had prepared him to face them with confidence.

“VMI instilled in me the core values that drove me to succeed in my career. Now that I am a part owner of a construction company in Chicago, 24 years after graduating, I feel indebted to VMI,” he explained.

Besides the gratitude he feels toward the Institute, Correll also sees VMI as an important resource for the country. “I have been struck – and somewhat humbled – by the respect that VMI has across the country, and I feel it is crucial that VMI continues its mission of grooming future leaders.”

“Giving unrestricted contributions allows the Institute to allocate funds the best way it deems necessary to develop cadets and ensure that the VMI experience is not only maintained but advanced in the future,” Correll replied when asked why he supports the Institute through the Foundation Fund as a member of the Institute Society. “Being a member of the Institute Society and providing unrestricted contributions is, for me, a small way of acknowledging the debt I feel toward the Institute. VMI played a decisive role in my life, and I will continue to support it as best I can to ensure its continued success of the Institute. I am proud to be in the ranks of the Institute Society because it is where I feel I have the most impact.”

In late 2016, the trustees of the VMI Foundation asked the staff to review all aspects of the Institute Society, something which had not been done since the early 2000s. “We approached this process,” remembered Bryan, “by reminding ourselves that the Institute

2019-Issue 1

Society’s mission was, as expressed by John S. Letcher ’924 at the first Institute Society Dinner in 1974, to ensure that the ‘excellence of the training and education given can be continued and improved to the end that present and future cadets will continue to make the Institute heard from in future years.’”

With these thoughts in mind, the VMI Foundation staff thoroughly rethought the society and came to the trustees with some suggested changes. One of the changes the trustees adopted was an increase in the amount of unrestricted giving needed to earn a place in the society. “It is important to note that, even though the giving levels related to the Institute Society had not been changed in quite some time, that fact did not drive our decision,” said Thomas H. Zarges ’70, VMI Foundation vice president-development who helped guide the reevaluation and adjustment process. “What drove this decision were a recognition of the critical importance of unrestricted giving to VMI and a desire to foster an increase in it.”

Another change was related to the recognition

of restricted giving within the Institute Society.

“We wanted to do more to recognize those who made restricted gifts to Foundation-managed funds and endowments, but creating an entirely new group to recognize restricted giving seemed needlessly complicated,” said Zarges.

“So, we increased basic amount of restricted needed to be recognized as a member of the Institute Society to $5,000 and allowed for recognition of restricted giving within its upper levels.”

“The Institute Society was established for two reasons. The first was to recognize leaders in support of VMI, and there is no doubt that its members are just that. Routinely, they give roughly two-thirds of the money that is donated to the Foundation Fund, and they give millions of dollars more to every facet of VMI’s co-curricular, academic and athletic programs,” said Maconi. “The second was to encourage other alumni and friends to join these leaders. The Institute Society will continue to do that well into the future based on these changes.”

Institute Society Giving Levels Orders

Gift Type General Francis Henry Smith

Unrestricted or Restricted $25,000

General Scott Shipp

Unrestricted or Restricted $10,000

Colonel J.T.L. Preston

Unrestricted or Restricted $5,000

General Thomas J. Jackson

Unrestricted (Foundation Fund) Only $2,000

John B. Strange • 1-5 years after graduation • 6-10 years after graduation • 11-15 years after graduation

Unrestricted (Foundation Fund) Only $300 $600 $1,200

43

Progress

Every Gift Matters: Donors Make a Difference with Unrestricted Gifts

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer The beginning of Fiscal Year 2018 brought forth some concerns about the VMI family’s capacity to support the Institute. While the need remained for funds with which VMI can meet pressing priorities and take every opportunity to improve the education of cadets, the Institute had just completed an exceptionally successful fundraising campaign. “We were,” recalled Warren J. Bryan ’71, VMI Foundation chief operating officer, “very much concerned with the prospect of donor fatigue. Would the VMI family heed the call to support critical programs by giving unrestricted funds through Annual Giving?”

At the end of Fiscal Year 2018, the answer was clear: They would – and did – in a big way. Gifts to Annual Giving topped the previous year’s

numbers with strong support to the Foundation Fund and funds managed by the VMI Keydet Club, enabling VMI to celebrate an increase in such support at a time when many schools across the nation have experienced significant declines in annual giving.

Will Collier ’06 was one of the donors who participated in Annual Giving in FY 2018. He described why he and his wife, Karen, supported VMI. “There are many reasons why my wife and I choose to continue to support VMI through the Foundation Fund. First, the VMI ring is something that all alumni wear proudly. Thanks to the generosity of donors, the VMI Foundation helps offset some of the costs of class rings, helping to ensure that every cadet has a class ring. When I

Will Collier ’06, who supported Annual Giving through the Foundation Fund in FY 17-18, and his family attended the Alumni Association pregame event in Toldeo, Ohio, in September 2018.

Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

44

learned of this as a cadet, it made a real impression on me. It underscored not only the feeling of camaraderie within the ranks of alumni that the ring symbolizes, but also how the Foundation helps cadets throughout their time in barracks.

Furthermore, we strongly support VMI’s mission to produce educated citizen-soldiers. The complete education gained at VMI gives graduates the tools necessary to be successful in all walks of life. We know the VMI experience requires the support of the alumni, family and friends of VMI if it is to continue to do so. Karen and I feel that giving to the Foundation Fund is the best way to support areas critical to VMI’s overall success, because we’re sure that it will go to the right departments, projects and activities.”

All told, the Colliers and thousands of alumni and friends made more than $6.2 million in gifts to Annual Giving, which included $2.89 million to the Foundation Fund. The importance of support of the Foundation Fund was explained by Steve Maconi, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer. “Every leader in every organization needs the ability to react quickly to challenges and respond strongly to opportunities as they present themselves. At VMI, unrestricted money from the VMI family empowers the superintendent and other leaders to make strategically important decisions in a timely manner.”

Gifts to the Foundation Fund have, in the past, supported the academic program, helped meet cadet scholarship needs, made innovative development opportunities available to cadets and faculty, and supported the Institute’s distinctive military system which inculcates the habits of sound leadership in all cadets. “Simply stated,” said Maconi, “every aspect of the VMI experience has been improved thanks to this form of unrestricted giving.”

The impact of giving to the Keydet Club is no less wide-reaching and profound. Greg Sanders ’18, a cadet-athlete with a 3.9 GPA at graduation, expressed his thanks to the Class of 1969 for supporting him throughout his cadetship through its scholarship. “I can never thank the Class of 1969 enough for their support. They believed in me, and I knew every day that I had a class of VMI alumni helping to prepare me for my future. I was able to hit the ground running,

VMI Alumni Review

Progress without my parents, who are both in the military, being saddled with thousands of dollars of debt.”

In FY 2018, hundreds of alumni and friends directed more than $3.23 million to the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund and Athletic Operations Funds and Team-Specific Scholarship Funds.

“This money was put to work immediately by Dave Diles, VMI director of intercollegiate athletics, and the dedicated men and women who coach our cadet-athletes,” said Meade B. King ’85, VMI Keydet Club chief operating officer. “They use it to attract, retain and support those hundreds of special young men and women, like Sanders, who are willing to take on the challenges of being an intercollegiate athlete at VMI because they are aware of how the experience will develop them as leaders and otherwise prepare them for life.”

The success of Annual Giving in FY 2018 came about in no small part because of the energetic work of the staff of the VMI Alumni Agencies.

However, a large share of credit also can go to those alumni who make the case for Annual Giving. “For five years, I have witnessed firsthand the enthusiasm that alumni have for the Institute,” explained John J. Wranek III ’85, former VMI Alumni Association directory of reunions. “These alumni, who include our dedicated class agents, have returned to post, where they have seen the transformational power of VMI at work in current cadets, and they know that these young men and women will have a positive impact our nation.

They leave post and return home determined to carry a message about the importance of private support to their brother rats and other alumni.”

“Participation in Annual Giving matters because every gift matters,” said Maconi. “To ensure VMI’s academic and co-curricular programs are of the highest quality, the Institute will always need unrestricted money that can be used where it is most needed. The money directed to the support of VMI’s athletic program and cadet-athletes will accelerate the progress of all of our teams as well as bring us closer to the goal of allowing VMI to take full advantage of its scholarship allowances from the NCAA. That is why the VMI Alumni Agencies and current and future cadets, faculty and staff are deeply grateful for the alumni, parents, faculty, staff and friends who participate in this vital effort. Finally, by making unrestricted gifts through Annual Giving, these alumni and friends are expressing their common approval of the Institute’s current direction and their shared trust in the judgement of the superintendent and the rest of the Institute’s leadership. It is an important and inspiring message for all of us on post.”

2019-Issue 1

Supporting VMI, Recognizing Service: Class of 1968 50th Reunion Campaign

by Scott E. Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

There is something about a 50th Reunion for a VMI class – something about the fact that they have spent five decades engaging, connecting and supporting one another; five decades of getting to know spouses, children and family members; five decades of experiencing the ups and downs of life together. There is a significance and a closeness, therefore, whenever the 50th Reunion classes come together on post every spring. For these alumni and their families, these weekends are filled with energy and laughter, memories and memorials, purpose and mission.

This spring, when the Class of 1968 came together for its 50th Reunion, they were there in large numbers to celebrate the bond of brotherhood. Early arrivals were treated to a well-attended reception at Brother Rat Skip Roberts’ home. Friday morning, the fun began with options for golf or sporting clays, and the evening was complete with a special meal in Marshall Hall with Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent. Saturday was full with a memorial service, a class picture, the reunion parade, Old Yells in barracks, a lunch and finally an enjoyable class dinner. “The Class of 1968’s reunion committee, led by Dean Kershaw, did an excellent job of organizing the weekend’s events,” said Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer. “Everything worked smoothly.”

Since 1966, the 50th Reunion classes have undertaken special fundraising efforts for VMI through reunion campaigns. The Class of 1968 enthusiastically embraced the effort to support VMI to make an impact on the lives of future cadets and preserve the excellence of the Institute. On April 21, 2018, the Class of 1968 presented the Institute with the initial results of its highly meaningful 50th Reunion campaign: $14,021,119.68, with 197 of their brother rats participating and 10 of their “sister rats,” as the widows of alumni often are known, making contributions.

The process of achieving this magnificent sum was led by reunion campaign committee co-chairs Walt Jeffress, Tom Hickey and Skip Roberts, who began work in December 2015. With the staff of the VMI Alumni Agencies helping them every step of the way, they recruited the reunion campaign committee and brought them to post for an organizational meeting in October 2016, when they set the campaign’s goals. The Class of 1968 broke a bit from the usual reunion routine in that the committee eschewed setting a monetary goal at the beginning of the campaign. “Instead, the committee decided to focus on participation in the campaign and attendance at the reunion and not a specific dollar goal,” said Tom Hickey. It was felt the money would follow the participation and excitement with the reunion. Each committee member was then asked to provide a list of brother rats they wanted to contact or were willing to contact. Hickey then used the lists to develop contact lists of no more than eight names for each committee member who in turn contacted the people on his list. As the committee did its work, it would set a goal to exceed the effort of its dykes’ class, the Class of 1965. It met that goal.

Although there are several funds associated with the class, the committee did not concentrate on raising money for them. “We mentioned them in the brochure we developed for the reunion campaign and directed the attention of the other 33 committee members to them,” said Hickey but that was about all. Roberts echoed this, “We left it up to our brother rats to designate the use of their support.”

There was one exception to this policy. Late in the campaign, the class led

45

Progress an effort to create an endowment to honor the dedicated service of Hickey as the class agent for nearly 20 years. “The Class of 1968 highly values our very special class agent and his tremendous efforts on our behalf. Tom’s tireless efforts in this role have made him stand out among members of our class,” said Jeffress. “His extraordinary and longtime service prompted Skip and me to reach out to the class to create an endowed fund in Tom’s honor. The response was immediate and heartwarming. As you can tell by the name of the fund, the class extended its recognition to Tom’s wife, Rosemary, for all her valuable support of Tom in his efforts and her exceptional outreach to wives, widows and all others related to our class.”

At the class’ dinner Saturday night, in support of their service, a resolution was presented honoring Hickey and recognizing Rosemary by announcing the establishment of the fund. The class also permitted Tom to direct the purpose of this new fund – to which brother rats donated more than $100,000 in gifts and commitments.

Following the reunion, Tom named the new fund the Thomas and Rosemary Hickey 1968 Scholarship. Commenting on this special gift, John J. Wranek III ’85, former VMI Alumni Association director of reunions, said, “This scholarship will provide need-based financial

assistance to cadets at VMI with first preference given to cadets majoring in electrical and computer engineering or computer and information science.” Wranek went on to say, “It was wonderful to see the Class of 1968 raise more than $100,000 in gifts and commitments to honor one of their own.”

With more than $14 million in gifts and commitments and a participation rate of 78 percent, it is apparent that the class appreciated the way the campaign was conducted. “From the comments I received,” said Roberts, “they felt the approach to the campaign worked for our class.” Hickey’s experience was much the same. “Everyone understood what was going on – a fundraising campaign – because it was expected. I also heard that the tone of our letters and calls – with the emphasis on attendance – was appreciated.”

Steve Maconi, VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer, commented, “The Class of 1968 strengthened this extraordinary college’s ability to educate cadets according to its time-tested means in order to accomplish its mission: To develop young people into the citizensoldiers our country always needs and which VMI has produced since 1839. That, by any measure, is a great accomplishment, and the entire VMI family is grateful for what they did for the Institute.”

At the parade, five brother rats representing the Class of 1968 – T. Bryan Barton, Dean A. Kershaw, W.M. Jeffress Jr., Thomas J. Hickey 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, left, and Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, superintendent, right, accepted the check on behalf of the VMI Alumni Agencies and the Institute, respectively. Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

46

VMI Alumni Review

Staff News Matthews ’15 New Alumni Association Program Outreach Officer

Matthews ’15

2018-Issue 4

Brittney Matthews ’15 began work with the VMI Alumni Association as a program outreach officer with a focused effort on the Alumni in Career Transition Program July 30, 2018. She comes to the Association after most recently serving as recruiting project coordinator with SAIC in Richmond, Virginia. While there, she worked closely with hiring managers, candidates and staffing recruiters to ensure the right people were placed in the right jobs. While in Richmond, she also served as a director on the board of the VMI Club of Richmond.

Matthews graduated from VMI with a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business with a concentration in global management. She excelled as a cadet, serving as cadre (company first sergeant) her 2nd Class year, studied abroad in the Czech Republic during her 1st Class year and served as the women’s rugby captain from 2011-14. Further, she was a cadet caller in the VMI Foundation Call Center during the 2013-14 academic year.

“I am excited to have Brittney join the team,” said Eric Hunter ’08, former VMI Alumni Association director of alumni outreach. “The experience and network she brings to the Alumni Association will allow us to expand our career networking program and better serve alumni. She will be a valuable asset to the team as we stay committed to service beyond barracks.”

Expressing her enthusiasm for her new position, Matthews stated, “I am passionate about helping job seekers find new opportunities while providing employers with top talent like VMI graduates. I look forward to continue to build the career network for both military and civilian sectors.”

47

48

VMI Alumni Review

CLASS NOTES

1935

Richard H. Knight Jr. ’70

Greetings from VMI Class of 1935.

James Christian Sherman died May 21, 2018.

He was 104. At the time of his death, he was the Institute’s senior man.

During his long and successful life, Mr. Sherman achieved a number of milestones. He was the last living alumnus to have graduated in the 1930s. He was the last living alumnus to begin and end his cadetship under Maj. Gen. John Archer Lejeune, VMI’s fifth superintendent. He was one of the last surviving officers to have achieved field-grade rank during the World War II. And, our research discloses that Mr. Sherman was the oldest living alumnus in VMI’s history.

Following Jim’s death, we exchanged several nice emails with Jim’s son and daughter, Ian and Elizabeth. Elizabeth wrote: “Dad’s possessions arrived earlier this month, and among his memorabilia, I made a moving discovery in the cards he received for his 104th birthday ... many were from your Class of ’70 and also, remarkably, from current cadets! A heartwarming tribute inspired by your notes, if I am correct. They are saved for posterity. Thank you!”

A tip of the kepi to Ian and Elizabeth, my brother rats and the outstanding young men and women inside the barracks who embraced Jim in his final days.

Now that Jim is back in the ranks, the Class of 1935 is “all present.” We cannot see them, but they are there on the bricks.

When I accepted the Foundation’s appointment eight years ago, there were only six men on the duty roster. They yielded slowly: Col. Thomas St. John Arnold (11/20/10); Alfred Jackson Snapp (1/14/11); Lt. Col. George Clifford Freeman (1/11/12); Sen. Harry Flood Byrd Jr. (7/30/13); Edwin Thomas Arnold Sr. (3/13/16); and James Christian Sherman (5/21/18). All six matriculated from Virginia, and all six were fair specimens of citizen soldiers, attached to their native state, proud of her fame.

I did not know Mr. Snapp or Col. Arnold. However, I knew the others very well. George and Clelia Freeman and Harry Byrd received me in their

2018-Issue 4

homes, and Eddie Arnold invited me to breakfast when I was in Albuquerque. Eddie’s eldest son, Tom, wrote frequently and sent photos. Jim and Peggy Sherman always answered their phone.

Jane Ferrell (Mrs. William B. Ferrell) wrote regularly.

The Class of 1935 entered the barracks 87 years ago, at the depth of the Great Depression. They were 269 strong, but only 129 graduated – less than half. Brother rats were compelled to leave school and return home. Virginia was rural and it was poor, and the Depression cut a wide gash in VMI’s ranks.

By 1942, most of the class was in uniform. These were mostly married men with families, but they flocked to the colors. Three were killed in action.

Five would eventually achieve flag rank. Some returned to uniform during the Korean conflict. All served with honor.

With so few brother rats, we often wondered whether we could write a column every three months. Happily, it was never a problem, and we never missed an issue in eight years. We concentrated on cadet life in the 1930s, military service, history, genealogy, sports, road trips and just about everything we could think of. We also introduced a feature involving VMI’s classic “nicknames,” mourning the passing of that era. Some cadets graduated with as many as seven nicknames, and we yearned for a return to that tradition.

This was a wonderful opportunity for me, and I will always be grateful to the Class of 1935. I am also grateful to the Alumni Review’s editors, the late Kathryn Wise, Hope Hennessey and Jordan Whitman. Finally, I am grateful to our readers and to everyone who wrote us over the years.

Jim Sherman’s entry in the 1935 Bomb reads, in part: “Jimmy, we can’t say ‘goodbye’ to you. Between friends it is never that, but instead, ‘until we meet again.’”

So long.

Dick Knight ’70

“10 Most Senior VMI Alumni” list. Since that publication, Col. Robert C. Maling now holds the distinct honor of being the most senior living VMI alumnus.

Col. Maling and his wife, Mila, reside in San Antonio, Texas, and he will turn 99 years of age Aug. 16, 2018, and is looking forward to reaching his 100th birthday a year from now.

As has become an annual tradition, Col. Maling’s son and my brother rat, Bob Maling Jr. ’73, is visiting his dad to celebrate his 99th birthday and during that visit will have the customary toasts to both VMI ’41 and ’73.

Col. Charles “Chuck” Abbitt reminded me that he turned 98 years old May 25, 2018, and continues to stay active at his retirement home in Richardson, Texas. For the past 11 years, he has organized the Sunday evening vesper service at the retirement home and says about 20-25 residents regularly attend the weekly service. What was originally intended to be a temporary assignment quickly became a “fulltime job” when the previous organizer took ill and never returned. In typical VMI fashion, Col. Abbitt voluntarily picked up the torch and continues to carry it today.

Jack N. Williams, who resides independently in Hot Springs, Virginia, continues to stay busy mowing his property, reading a good book every so often and, when all else fails, watches a little TV. Mr. Williams remembers rooming in room 409 his rat year, and one of his roommates was Chuck Abbitt (see above note). He

1941

Stuart Seaton Jr. ’73

Greetings from the VMI Class of 1941. In the most recent Alumni Review (2018-Issue 3), it was noted that all three brother rats are on the

Class of 1941: Col. Robert C. Maling, the most senior living VMI alumnus.

49

Class Notes remembers Chuck having a picture on the wall of a friend named Faye and wonders if they ever married. I’ll have to research that one out before the next Alumni Review. Mr. Williams says he remains in good health and stays active among his community.

In closing, I would like to acknowledge the contributions made earlier this summer by two of the VMI ’41 brother rats. The VMI Foundation certainly appreciates your generous gifts.

Respectfully submitted, Stuart M. Seaton Jr. ’73

1942

Harry Siebert

Hello, Brother Rats, Since making the honored list of the most senior alumni, I have been so pleased by Keydet visitors coming to my home to say hello.

Back in January, Peter Trible ’65 and his wife, Jeanne, were vacationing at New Symrna Beach and visited. Sometime later, Jack McEwan ’65, along with Jim Joustra ’76, spent some time with us. They were both from the nearby Orlando area.

John R. Cavedo ’64 and his charming wife, Sherrel, almost a neighbor from Ormond Beach, visited. This was a lucky break for me, as John was also a class agent who later gave me some help in my preparation of my first class agent report. Thank you, John!

Of course, the highlight was my birthday visit from Thomas Brashears ’95, Alumni Association chief operating officer.

An email from Charlie Miller June 25 tells me he will spend a week or so at Virginia Beach at the same house on the ocean at 50th Street for so many years. My family used to do the same when I was in high school, and I can remember some fun days.

He is most fortunate to have his devoted two daughters, Barrie and Lindsay, along with him during this family vacation with his extensive family.

Regretfully, he reports his medics urge him to have hospice assistance when he returns home.

Good Luck, Charlie. May your aches and pains ease off. I appreciate your condition, as I am in

50

Class of 1942: Class members at a mini reunion hosted by Jack Patton in Colorado Springs, Colorado, in 2005. Present were Charles Miller, Kent Graybeal, Gabe Horne, Harry Siebert, Jim Cheatham, Charles Purdum, Frank Lee, Lloyd Stallings, Joe Drewry, Lloyd Leech, Gordon Moore and Patton. the same “boat” with my same pains. I am proud to follow in your footsteps as class agent.

Regarding lost brother rats, we have been lucky to locate Dr. John Yates Embrey, who is now at an assisted living facility in his hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia. He can be reached at 423 Wood Landing Road Fredericksburg, VA 22405. His birthday is June 17, 1920.

We were not so fortunate in finding Barnabas B. Baker. He is reportedly in an assisted living home in Portsmouth, Virginia, where he served as mayor from 1958-60. I believe my mail has been forwarded by the Portsmouth city clerk with no reply. The city will not give me his address, citing “Privacy Act.” On June 16, 2005, we had a mini reunion hosted by Jack Patton in Colorado Springs, Colora-

Class of 1942: Jack Patton after the 75th Reunion.

do, home of the U.S. Air Force Academy. It was a great event, and Jack went all-out to show his some 12 brother rats and their ladies a great time.

The Air Force facilities were fantastic, and the nearby Broadmore Hotel, Pikes Peak and beautiful mountains were all great to visit.

The photo shows our group. Thank you, Jack! I want to devote some time to my dear friend Jack, my roommate. Just before my departure to Lexington in September 1938, my family received a call from Jack’s mother, a single working mother who was unable to escort Jack to enroll at VMI. This was the start of a long friendship.

Jack and I had spent four years at John Marshall High School and had never met. Arriving at VMI, we got out at Washington Arch. Standing there at the same moment was C. Ross Lapp of Dallas, Pennsylvania. We had no choice in the matter. A three-man room came up, and we were roommates.

Upon graduation, Jack was one of our several brothers to get appointments to the U.S. Army Air Corps, later to be known as the United States Air Force. Jack got his wings as a fighter pilot and shipped out to England, where he flew many missions and provided protection for our B-17 bombing runs over Germany.

Jack can be contacted at his new retirement home as follows: Retired U.S. Air Force Col. John M. Patton 6201 119th St. Apt. 4208 Overland Park, KS 66209 or 913-283-8704.

Thumbs up!

Harry

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes of the New York World Trade Center. Until one day, he took a day off. It was the same day a terrorist crashed his airplane into the World Trade Center, causing the building to collapse and multiple lives to be lost. Who says guardian angels don’t exist?

Meanwhile, Bruce enjoys life to the fullest in the New Jersey retirement “village” in which he lives. He sings in the village choir and dances the light fantastic at the monthly dances.

Bill Gottwald and Settle Frank were photographed when they were only ones attending what was termed our class’ 75th Reunion. For a variety of reasons, I strongly doubt the wisdom of attempting an 80th Reunion.

Until the next time, all the best.

Jeff

Class of 1942: Jack Patton after landing on a muddy English airfield in 1943.

His fighter plane, Patsy, is in the background.

Class of 1942: High school classmates and Brother Rats Jack Patton and Harry Siebert at the John Marshall High School 50th reunion in Richmond, Virginia.

1944

Tom L. Peyton Jr.

Please note the above change in the USPS mailing address and the telephone number. I am in the process of permanently moving from my farm in Virginia to a gated community in coastal North Carolina.

Reminder: The 75th Reunion of our class will take place in Lexington Monday and Tuesday, April 15-16, 2019. Since most potential attendees would travel primarily by air to Lexington, this is the time to be looking into airline connections and considering airline reservations.

The photograph accompanying these notes was provided by Larry Wilson ’62, president of the Central North Carolina/Raleigh Chapter of the Alumni Association, who organized the luncheon honoring John Irby for his receipt of the French government’s Military Legion of Honor Award.

Details of the award were included in previous Class of 1944 notes. The Class of 1944 deeply appreciates the thoughtfulness of the chapter in recognizing our brother rat in this manner. John is the senior member of that chapter.

Charlie McVeigh, son of Esther and our late Brother Rat Bev McVeigh, writing for his mother in early May, wanted the Class of 1944 to know how proud and delighted she was that their grandson, Henry Thelin III ’18, was about to graduate from the Institute. Esther later attended the ceremony May 16. We extend our class congratulations to her grandson and the McVeigh family.

I recently called Harold Lockwood at his home in Brownwood, Texas, to follow up on a letter quoted in earlier class notes from his daughter, Margie. I was able to reach Harold.

He had some difficulty hearing me, but when hearing his loud and clear voice, I confirmed that he was “doing fine.”

Bob Smothers told me in a phone call that he and his friend, Mei, are currently planning a trip to Japan and South Korea, to be followed by a trip to Ohio to attend a reunion of his former U.S. Army Air Corps bomber group. Since he seems to be ever ready to travel, I thought that he would be a good person to start the ball rolling with for the 75th Reunion attendance. Not surprisingly, he was positive in his intention to be there and was already looking into airline flights from San Diego.

1943

Jeffrey G. Smith

Happily, I have no deaths to report! But I have scant news, because you, my dear brother rats, provide me little.

Bruce Suter provided me with a narrow escape tale involving him to beat all narrow escape tales. Bruce worked 12 years on the 92nd floor

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1944: The Central North Carolina-Raleigh Chapter had a lunch honoring John P. Irby III at The Cypress of Raleigh June 13. Irby is the chapter’s most senior alumnus.

Pictured were, from left, Larry Wilson ’62, Bill Gibson ’65, Bruce McCreedy ’56, Paul Johnston ’61, Kathleen Miller, Ty Miller ’53, Suzi Bowden (guest of Al Davis), Al Davis ’71, Elsa Stankard (guest of Irby), Irby, Roger Rosenfield ’47, Lynne Rosenfield, Rick Hening ’75, Mike Kelly ’73, Pat Kelly, Bill Redd ’61 and Betsy Wilson.

51

Class Notes Bob is a “big time” user of Facebook to stay in touch family and friends. Being one of the latter, I am notified regularly of the busy and inspiring life that he leads.

Bob and Miriam Helmen were in the northern Virginia area recently to attend the wedding of one of their granddaughters. We had hoped to meet briefly, but their busy schedule and my other activities prevented it. We replaced the meeting with a nice long telephone call after they returned to their home in Wheaton, Illinois, via their farm in Monterey, Virginia. They continue to be pleased with their still-new accommodations in Wheaton.

They also visit their farm at Monterey from time to time, enjoying the beautiful setting in that locale.

Dick Niece and I finally caught up with each other through a lengthy phone call. We also trade emails with each other, which I know he also does with other classmates. I think that we both appreciate conservative, contemporary commentary, and I particularly enjoy many of his emails featuring spectacular photography. Dick continues to live in Naples, Florida, where he and his late wife, Ann, moved a number of years ago. Knowing that he now lives alone, I asked whether he has someone to look in on him. He replied with details of an amazing organization built on family members and a caregiver. The communication network and frequency of contact is impressive. He uses something he called “face phone.” I don’t know whether that is the same as Facebook that Bob Smothers uses or something similar. When living alone as a senior citizen, it certainly sounds like the way to go when building a friends and family network.

Maybe more details later.

Dick commented on the Alumni Review practice of providing a short list of our oldest living alumni. We note that familiar names from the time we were cadets are now starting to appear on these lists with startling regularity. While being so listed is an honor, of sorts, we agreed that we were not so sure about looking forward to seeing our own names there.

1945

William Quarles

Bob Pettigrew shared a sweet note saying

52

Class of 1945: Bob Pettigrew with his wife, Juanita, and family friend, Makenzie. how, at the age of 94, he and his wife still have special peaks in their lives. One in particular is their friend, Makenzie, who brightens their days with sunshine. Bob describes life as calm and satisfactory but not totally uneventful.

Class of ’45, please share your news with us for the Review! We would love to hear from you!

1946

William A. Eliason

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 1946.

1948B

Lionel T. Wolford

Brother Rats, George Ramsey reported a new email address. I heard that he and Harriet spent the summer at their beach house in North Carolina. George sent a photo of him and Harriet taken last February at George’s 90th birthday celebration. Doug Hamner and I talked on the phone several times, but we had nothing new

to report. We had a good time telling old VMI stories.

David Halpin died July 4, 2018. David was originally from Toledo, Ohio. I vaguely remember him from 1944 as a very likable young man. He roomed with R.J. Fretz and Howard Smith. David also played on the basketball team. Like most of our fragmented class, he was called into military service (Navy) in early 1945. Of the 130 or so ’48Bs who were called into military service, about 35, including David Halpin, returned to VMI, completed their studies and graduated. When David returned to VMI, he roomed with G.C. Stein and R.T. Townsend ’49A. I believe that G.C. Stein is one of our surviving brother rats, but I have never heard from him. R.T. Townsend ’49A was killed in combat in Korea in 1951. David graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering and went on to earn an advanced degree from MIT. He returned to Ohio and ran a construction firm, Halpin, Inc. After marrying Deedee and starting a family, he moved both family and Halpin, Inc. to Florida. David sold out in 1973 and started a real estate development firm, Tandem Co. David is preceded in death by a son and is survived by Deedee, another son, four daughters, nine grandchildren and one great-grandchild. My daughter, Ann, and I had the honor of dining with David and Deedee at the ’48B 50th Reunion. Alice and Charles Brown and Betty and Jed White were also in our group.

To my knowledge, we have 17 surviving brother rats. Four of them – C.E. Hartman, George Ramsey, Al Stupulsky and Lionel Wolford – are from the group of 25 who went through without interruption. Eight of them – Lou Castellano, Billy Guin, Doug Hamner, Rod Kallgren, Sonny Laine, Al Loth, G.C. Stein and Jim Warrington – are from the group of 35 or so who left for World War II service and returned to VMI, and five – Dick Ayres, R.B. Blackwell, Charles Brown, Nick Harris and Henry Nalven – are from the group of 93 or so who did not return to VMI after World War II service. I have never heard from Blackwell (Naval Academy graduate) or Stein (VMI graduate). I have not heard from Al Stupulsky either, but I have heard about him from others. My last contact with C.E. Hartman was at the 50th Reunion. It is quite possible that I have missed some survivors. Perhaps Angus Crook, M.D., and Ed

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1948B: George and Harriet Ramsey in February 2018.

Laraja are alive. If anyone knows of surviving ’48Bs I have not listed, please let me know.

I had 12 roommates at VMI: Henry Johnson, Cal Woodard, Charles Brown, Bob Duke, Mickey Lawson, Billy Guin, Julius Walker, Phil Richardson, Ofus Slayton, Dick Eichhorn, Clarence Danforth and Webster Parker.

Charles Brown and Billy Guin are the only survivors (all three of us are Louisianians). I roomed with Bob Duke for five semesters – longer than anyone else. It might have been longer, but Henry Dunbar engineered a trade in late 1946. He sent us Clarence Danforth in exchange for Bob. I hated to lose Bob, but Clarence was a close friend and bridge partner, so I

Class of 1948B: Doug Hamner, Lionel Wolford, George Ramsey and Jim Warrington on post during the 70th Class Reunion in April 2018.

2018-Issue 4

didn’t object. Bob Duke was the youngest and smartest guy in our class. He should have been valedictorian at the June 1947 graduation, but that honor went to Lloyd Corkan ’44. I never heard Bob complain.

All of my roommates were great guys, and I hope to relate some stories about them in later class notes. Now, I would like to write about Webster Parker.

Webster Rawls Parker was best known as Willie Dick and also as P-40. The latter nickname had to do with his ears. I believe we were in the same squad in Company B during summer 1944. I remember sharing a blanket and pup tent with Willie on our bivouac at Goshen Pass. It was a cold and uncomfortable night, and Willie was all skin and bones. We roomed together our 1st Class year. Willie was one of the 24 ’48Bs to graduate in June 1947. Later, we were together at ROTC summer camp at Fort Campbell, Kentucky. About halfway through this training period, we all received a routine physical exam. Willie failed the physical and was told he would not receive a commission as a second lieutenant and to go home. Willie was very upset and expressed his anger to me.

I replied, “Who wants to be in the Army, anyway?” This did not comfort him. I never saw or heard from him again. Apparently, he had no further contact with VMI, either. Only his name and Bachelor of Arts degree are listed in the Register of Former Cadets. To my knowledge, no one knows accurately when he died.

We were very friendly and shared many activities our 1st Class year.

Let me relate two memorable occasions.

All of the pre-med students with whom I shared chemistry classes thought that one man stood head and shoulders above the rest as a teacher. That man was Doc Carroll, biology professor. Since the chemistry curriculum did not include biology, I did not know the man who was to become a VMI legend. Willie Dick had taken biology and had become quite friendly with Doc and the gracious Mrs. Carroll. He was frequently invited to their house for visits. On one occasion, Mrs. Carroll suggested that Willie bring along a friend on his next visit to make a fourth for bridge.

Willie brought me. We had an enjoyable visit and great bridge game and were invited back many more times. Had it not been for Willie, I would have never met this extraordinary

instructor who was to become a VMI legend.

On another occasion, a hop weekend in spring 1947, Willie and I had no dates. Willie suggested that we attend the Saturday evening dance anyway. I declined, so Willie went alone. He took a fancy to one of the two female vocalists, so during an intermission, he went to the bandstand to introduce himself. They got along famously, and during the next intermission, he asked her to join him on a late date. She agreed, but only if her sister, the other vocalist, also went. Willie came back to barracks and told me to get dressed, because I had a date.

We went back to the dance, and I was introduced to the two lovely sisters. When the dance ended, the four of us were ready to start out on our late date. However, the band leader came over and announced an unexpected change in plans. He told the girls to board the bus now, since they had to leave immediately for their next engagement. The band leader was the well-known Tony Pastor. The girls were Rosemary and Betty Clooney. Wow, what a great late date that would have been!

1949A

James Harrington

Life in the slow lane on a steady downhill run doesn’t generate many interesting anecdotes for a quarterly report. My adventures are limited to twice-weekly boat rides across the river for groceries or a doctor appointment. On a couple of these trips, my VMI cap attracted some attention – first from a young rising 3rd Class cadet just out of the Rat Line, then from a rising 1st Class cadet who was working a summer job on the dock. I didn’t write down their names, but it was great to be recognized by the new blood in the VMI community. As for the Harringtons, it would be stretching the truth to say we’re well, but we’re as well as can be expected at this age and with our several infirmities. We should make it for a little longer. Inshallah.

The rest of the class didn’t make little toot.

Maybe next time.

53

Class Notes

1949B Dan Smaw

I got an update from Ding Patton: He talked with Grover Outland who said he’s going to get one of his kids to bring him up to the Institute Society Dinner. Kate and Greg Nelson love their new home at Westminster Canterbury retirement home in Richmond.

Tommy and Virginia Cook have moved to their house in Rockbridge County full time.

Joe Spitler says that he and Shirley are doing pretty well except for Shirley’s macular degeneration and his not being able to walk too well any more. I can relate to that.

The Pattons haven’t yet decided on a winter cruise. Since they have covered everything in the Caribbean several times, they don’t need to go back there. Their grandson Scooter Babber has been promoted to lieutenant colonel in the Virginia National Guard.

My son Danny and I are going up to visit the Pattons again during the time of the Institute Society Dinner. We appreciate them asking us to stay with them again.

God Bless America, VMI and 49B!

1950A Bill Moore

These notes are getting distressingly easy to write. With our recent losses, we are down to five brother rats and approximately eight widows. I do have some news, though. Nan (Elliott) Hudgins reports that her son, Col. Reed Hudgins ’90, is retiring after 28 years of service. The Army wants two more years of him, as he has been involved in very important work during his career, but Reed is getting tired of moving around. Nan herself is walking much better now but still needs a cane.

Barbara (Hugh) Barnes has experienced a long recovery period since her breast cancer op-

54

eration. She has a 3-month-old great-grandson who I am sure helps her spirits considerably.

Jennings and Harriet Bunch are still active and walking every day. They recently visited their daughter who lives in North Carolina. Their second daughter lives nearby in southeastern Pennsylvania.

Kenny Stagg reports that he is doing very well but has trouble walking and is using a walker.

Jackie (Dick) Martin says she is surrounded by wildfires in the nearby states. Temperatures in her area have reached the 108 degree mark.

She sounds great and happy with her life and surroundings in spite of the smoke Spokane is presently experiencing. I think I’ll call her our Smokey the Bear!

Ralph Mooney just celebrated his 90th birthday, and Judy tells me he had a great time. Most of us are reaching or nearing that 90 bracket.

Gene Witcher says this 90 stuff is making him a little tired. Gene is the oldest BR we have left.

I believe he told me he is 93. That’s subject to correction.

I had a last minute call from Adrienne, Joanne and Ed Miller’s daughter. Hearing from her is always a breath of fresh air. Joanne has been in hospice care for the last year since she stopped eating. The priest gave her the last rites. She noticed and started eating. She’s markedly recovered but is still bedridden. It’s hard for me to believe that Adrienne retired two months ago. Boy, does time ever fly!

Not much change in my heart situation of a few months ago. We’re still fighting Anthem, or more correctly, Anthem is fighting us/me. I did find out that this leaking mitral valve is not likely to cause me any permanent heart damage if it is not repaired soon. I have very little in the way of symptoms, so I’m still waiting the insurance company out.

I’ve been doing a lot of reminiscing lately as we face our 70th Reunion in only two years.

The Class of ’50A was/is an unusual class in the annals of VMI. We were the first class that matriculated after World War II, March 4, 1946. We matriculated 43 and graduated 24. Our class was composed of about half veterans of World War II and half 17-year-olds who had never shaved. I believe we were the smallest class admitted since the Civil War. Our veterans soon impressed their experience on the younger crowd with mischievous and

sometimes destructive results. One of my first such memories was the great gasoline step off of April 1946. I’m not going to try to describe a step off in detail for you younger alumni. It was basically a riot after taps within barracks protesting with uncivil disobedience against some imagined wrong or action or policy of the Institute administration or one of its OCs usually called by the 3rds, executed by the rats and suppressed by the 1st Class (with their belts). During the war and until April 1946, Army Specialized Forces were in barracks taking classes but not wearing cadet uniforms nor subject to the VMI Blue Book of regulations.

These were Army personnel and wore standard Army uniforms. There was a gentlemen’s agreement not to have step offs while these non-VMI soldiers were in barracks. One day in April 1946, all hell broke loose. The ASTPs were reassigned, the 3rds called a step off, and we rats were told to go up on the fourth stoop and knock out light bulbs and the like. Hah! Were we rats in for a surprise. The 1sts, mostly veterans themselves, swarmed up the steps and beat us with their leather belts all the way back to our rooms. So much for the first postwar step off. We rats nursed badly beaten butts and grudges toward the 3rds, who so sadly prepared us and swore that next time was going to be different. Under the leadership of the veterans in our class, we smuggled in gallons of gasoline and motor oil along with bottles and rags through room 122 (friendly dykes) up to the fourth stoop which was uninhabited in April 1946. We made more Molotov cocktails than the Finns did in the Winter War against the Russians. Loaded and locked. The next step off called was quite different. We got the warning and sneaked advance parties up to the fourth stoop after the last note of taps, and while the 3rds were lazily congregating to give the signal of, “Step off, you rats,” we loaded the steps to the fourth stoops with about a week’s trash that we’d stashed away in the empty rooms, and completed Molotov cocktails were piled on the stoop. Then we started raising hell as doors and radiators rained into the courtyard of Old Barracks. The cocktails set all the grass around the sentinel box on fire. The sentry was routed from his box. Then came the 1st Class cadets, mostly ’44s, belts a-waving. We had all four staircases to the fourth stoop covered with fire from the wastebaskets and backed by

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes rats with Molotov cocktails. The defense at the steps I was helping defend was commanded by Harold (The Stump) Logsdon, an Air Corps veteran. Loggie was about 5 feet 4 inches tall but all guts. The 1st Class president, Harry Easterly ’44, led the charge against Loggie’s steps. The trash was beginning to burn out, but Loggie held up a half gallon Molotov cocktail over one shoulder and a lighted wooden match in the other hand, ready to light and drop.

Last charge of the light brigade at those steps.

The fires gradually subsided as we rats tried to sneak back to our rooms on the third stoop.

Old Barracks looked like Hunter had made a return visit since his defeat at the battle of Lynchburg. The next morning at BRC, Easterly held up the rats for a slight sermon after the rest of the Corps had eaten and told us that was one helluva step off but, “If you rats ever use gasoline again, I’ll personally see that every one of you get shipped.”

1950B

Joseph B. Kohen Jr.

At the time of this writing, aside from getting obituaries from the alumni office concerning the departures of Alex Mitchell, Bill Kelly and Lee Chegin, I have not heard from any classmates. All losses are significant.

We matriculated in fall 1946. World War II had just ended, veterans were returning to school to finish their education and we, who had been high school seniors, were now on the bottom rung of the collegiate ladder. We were melded into the famous midcentury Class of ’50B. Lifelong friendships and bonds were cemented which are only now being fragmented by the ravages of advancing years. We are left with the cherished memories of the golden years. We were able to celebrate many scientific advances and discoveries. The achievements of our school have made us proud, and in our own way, we helped bring it about.

A late addition: I received a note from Augustus B. Jones III who provided caps and polo shirts for our last reunion. In response upon receiving a birthday card with a request

2018-Issue 4

to hear from him, he sent a welcomed reply. He is busy with family genealogy and just found his granddaughter could join the Daughters of the American Revolution. After the death of his wife last year, he has kept busy in his woodworking shop making something more worthwhile than sawdust. On his horizon is an English garden bench which he saw when his older son took him on a bus tour to the U.K. from May 6-23.

1951

Jacob H. Wamsley II

These notes cover the period May 15, 2018, through Aug. 15, 2018.

The alumni office notified us of the death of Claud Eley May 23, 2018. They provided his obituary from the St. Louis, Missouri, newspaper. I had just sent him a happy birthday wish from the class May 16; he was 89.

I received a welcome telephone call from Bob Nolley in early June – all goes well for him.

He and his wife are “in residence” on Topsail Island for the summer months.

Emails from Jim Enochs and Pete Philp report that they failed to make connections during Jim’s and Bounce Carsten’s visit to Dallas several weeks ago. Pete was out of town, thereby missing a chance to extract some golf winnings from the two visitors.

Your class agent missed the meeting of all of the class agents held in Lexington in late June.

While I still drive, the 8-plus hour drive to Lexington from Stone Mountain is just too much, even if I make it a two-day trip.

Some interesting statistics were made available to all of us; I’ll quote a couple so you can appreciate even more where we spent those years of our youth: Of the 12,000 colleges and universities in the U.S., VMI ranked No. 177

by Forbes magazine and No. 33 in the South.

Also, Money Magazine ranked VMI No. 10 on the list of best colleges in the South and No. 41 in all schools in the U.S. Of particular interest to me was a listing in the U.S. News and World Report, where VMI was included in the unranked list of “A+ Schools for B Students.”

A call from our valedictorian, George Cohen,

in early July was most welcome. He and Marty are doing fine. We discussed the possibility of a mini reunion before the 70th in 2021 and agreed that it is just not feasible. He had been in touch with Sam Scott and mentioned that Sam’s vision problems seem to be getting worse. As a result, I called Sam, our elder statesman, to get a firsthand report. The vision problems are indeed worsening – to the extent that he has given up driving his truck and is seriously considering moving into a retirement community.

A recent talk with Jack Ross’ daughter reveals that things in the Ross household remain about the same – good days and bad days for Jack and Marie.

On July 24, the alumni office notified us of the death of Lang Sheffield in Americus, Georgia, on July 18, 2018. That sad news did not make the Atlanta newspapers, or I would have been present at his funeral service Friday, July 20. Lang’s father was Class of ’26 and his brother, who predeceased him, was a ’50B. We knew him as Johnny Sheffield. Lang’s birthday was July 29, 1930, and I had not yet sent him a happy birthday wish from the class. Our numbers continue to drop!

By the time you read this, I will be enjoying the benefits of having a pacemaker implanted.

Hopefully it will improve my golf game, and secondarily my shortness of breath, stamina and balance. I may yet back out on the theory that “if it ain’t seriously broke, don’t fix it.” Of course, I added the word “seriously” – shortness of breath, a wobbly walk and a longing for a nap are not serious, but the golf game is!

1952

James M. Mecredy

Terry Bowers ’68 sent me a photo of room 134 with members of the Class of ’78 and the Class of ’68, who roomed in 134: David Mecredy ’78, Bill Robertson ’78, Terry Bowers ’68 and Pete Manoso ’78. They happened to meet in front of 134 as each was visiting their old room during reunions in April 2018. I am continuing calling brother rats, especially those I haven’t heard from lately.

I recently called Shirley Buchanan (Buck Buchanan’s widow) to learn she is busy planting

55

Class Notes tomatoes and trees for the local arboretum organization. They supply the trees each year and Shirley has a two acre farm for trees. This year, she planted Chinese chestnut, oak and bald Cyprus. Since Buck died, she has cut down on planting vegetables. She is planting butterfly bushes and milkweed for the butterflies. She also volunteers for the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, which, among other things, keeps track of bird and butterfly migration. Consequently, Shirley has a very active life and is enjoying it.

Bill Ruffin let me know that the Old Corps golf team of Ruffin, Finney and Dickinson will be meeting for their monthly golf game, along with three from the Class of ’54. If they do well, Bill will send me a photo of the group.

Maybe I will be able to report their scores are equal to or lower than their ages. I have not received a photo. Would that be that their scores were even higher than their ages?

Bill Minter died May 12 at age 90 after a long illness. Bill served in the U.S. Army between World War II and the Korean War, and after returning home to Connecticut, he attended VMI and Trinity College in Connecticut. He later worked in the insurance industry his entire life on both the company and agency side.

He leaves behind his wife of 36 years, Jeri; two children; two step-children; and five grandchildren.

Jim Miller’s wife, Patricia, died May 12 after experiencing dementia and more recently cancer. She was peaceful in the few final days she had. Jim said they had been married 65 years after getting married while Jim was at Camp Polk. Pat was from Roanoke and was visiting.

They decided to get married on a three day pass instead of waiting, because Jim thought

Class of 1952: Reunion visitors to room 134: David Mecredy ’78, Bill Robertson ’78, Terry Bowers ’68 and Pete Manoso ’78.

56

he would be going to Korea. When they returned, Zeke Finney was officer of the day and greeted them with news that Jim had orders to Germany. Of course, Jim and Pat were delighted, because she could go with him.

Frank Byrne writes that they have 11 greatgrandchildren and another due in July. There are still eight unmarried grandchildren, with one wedding in September. God has really blessed them. Is that a record for the Class of ’52?

I received a summary of Jeff Hanna’s life from his wife, Gayle, which I want to share with the Class of ’52. Jeff Hanna, a longtime resident of Puyallup, Washington, died May 17, 2018. He was 86.

Growing up in Virginia, he went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from VMI and a master’s degree in physics from Rice University. He was on active duty for six years in the U.S. Air Force and spent another 22 years in the U.S. Air Force Reserve, retiring with senior navigator and lieutenant colonel status. Jeff then served in various engineering and management positions with the Boeing Company, retiring after 35 years as director of product development for Boeing associated products.

Jeff was a rocket scientist. During his career, he performed key roles in Apollo Programs 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13, the Mobile Lunar Laboratory, Minuteman Project and preparation for the Cuban Invasion of 1962. He was awarded the 1970 NASA Achievement Award.

Jeff served as the operations leader and chairman of Seattle Mountain Rescue. He was also an accomplished mountaineer. He summited numerous peaks in the Pacific Northwest, including Mount Baker and Mount Rainier.

Jeff was a member of the American Physical Society and Society Sigma XI. He was also a former director of Fruitland Water District for several terms.

He is survived by his wife of 29 years, Gayle, as well as four children, including Jeff (Amy) of Lynnwood, Washington; Mark of Bothell, Washington; David of Monrovia, California; and Danielle of Puyallup, Washington. Jeff had six grandchildren.

Jeff will be remembered as a brilliant, diligent and thoughtful member of the Class of ’52.

Charlie Hogge wrote: “Jim, it was with great sadness that I opened your email of June 9,

having seen that the subject was Jeff Hanna.

We were roommates at VMI the entire four years and had all of our classes together as electrical engineering majors. Jeff wore academic stars all four years. I regret that we allowed time and distance get in the way of staying in touch to a greater degree.”

Walt Ames called to tell me he is doing well much of the time. When the weather gets damp, he has to endure aching joints. George St. John continues to live at home in a wheelchair. His wife has been in a nursing home for several years. He still has one female beagle left from his pack of rabbit hunting dogs. Someone comes in every morning to help with breakfast and dinner. George considers himself to be fortunate to still be around. I called Austin Bridgforth but haven’t heard back from him.

Rich Falwell wrote to thank me for his birthday card. Rich and Nancy are moving to Wake Forest, North Carolina. His son, David, invited them to move down and live with them. They sold their house in Lynchburg and planned to move July 4.

David Durbin wrote to tell me that his father, Keith Durbin, died Sunday, June 24. He was only able to attend VMI for one year and then his National Guard unit was activated for Korea. Despite not being able to graduate, VMI always held a special place in his dad’s heart.

Keith was a lieutenant colonel in the National Guard. Jim Wiley and Charlie Hogge both responded with memories of Keith and prayers for his family.

Army and Barbara Wellford are both well.

Army had a bout with lymphoma, but that has been healed. They usually spend time in Florida, but this year, they only spent a week there in February. They were getting a lot of rain, just as we were. It seems the rains start in Florida and travels up the coast through Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia.

On June 27, we were expecting more thunderstorms. I was out at a meeting June 26, and going home, the rain was so hard I had trouble seeing the road. I made it home with a lot of help from the Lord. Lucette was at home, and I felt that I should be there in the event of storm damage, which did not occur. As of Aug. 8, daily rain and thunderstorms have continued through the summer.

Skip Goldacker and his family are doing well considering that he says he is getting older. He

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes tires easily walking and his doctor tells him he is getting old. Skip is volunteering at the Veterans Affairs Hospital caring for patients.

Rem Simpson called to ask for Jim Miller’s phone number. Jim had called Rem, but Rem had phone number wrong and wanted a good number to return Jim’s call. Rem and JoAnn are both well.

Joe Webber sent me a video of a World War II veteran putting on his uniform (which still fits) to welcome a young veteran home for the Fourth of July family celebration. They both salute and then embrace. Joe sent this saying it is worth a second look, and Joe is right.

I haven’t talked to Bobby Caudle in several years, so I called him. It turns out that he had a stroke in January 2015 and has not been able to walk since without support. He now has an appointment with Veterans Affairs to get some help. Other than the ability to walk, Bob is doing fine.

Margaret Stallings wrote in answer to my birthday card that the years are going by and she is glad to be here to share with her grandchildren. Also she takes evening classes three times a week along with Mary and George Hutter.

I received word from VMI that Rob Gerdetz died June 15. He is survived by his three children, Karen Valentine and husband Patrick of Charlotte, North Carolina; Rob Gerdetz of La Mirada, California; and Donna Scott of Austin, Texas. He is also survived by his six grandchildren, Katie Valentine, Ben Smith ’14, Stacy Smith, Maggie Valentine, Lauren Gerdetz and Kyle Gerdetz. Bob Caudle wrote: “Thanks much for notice. I played on the baseball team with Rob. He was a classy shortstop.”

On July 27, Estelle Gordon wrote to inform me that Bill Gordon had been hospitalized for 12 days then transferred to a memory care facility. She added: “I can appreciate anyone who has a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s.

It has been a difficult three-and-a-half years for me only to realize that I can no longer give him the physical, medical and health care he needs.

Sad news like this is becoming the norm as we grow older.”

Bud Becker called to thank me for his birthday card. He was delayed, because he had fallen, injuring his right side and ribs. He is slowly recovering, so we had a prayer for his further recovery. He is in a surgical room. Joyce visits

2018-Issue 4

him every afternoon, and fortunately, she is doing well.

Stover Thomas is doing well except for a recent problem that his doctor will examine.

While in service he spent so many years in tropics that he has had many skin cancers removed and is outliving those issues. Like me, Stover is outliving his friends.

I am continuing to call brother rats and widows. I am finding more and more often that phones have been disconnected and birthday cards are being returned. Recently I have lost contact with: Bill Croswell, Bettie Comer, Betty Lambert, Hal Berke and Warren Meola.

If it is because you have moved, please let me know.

For ’52, Jim

1953

William C. Noell Jr.

The main event for this past quarter was the day after the Class Notes deadline in May when four 1st Class cadet grandsons graduated from the Institute May 16 with the VMI Class of ’18. They were Henry Atwill ’18 (Bill Atwill), Will Woodward ’18 (Mickey Woodward), Caleb Baldwin ’18 (Caleb Baldwin) and G.S. Sutherland ’18 (Sut Sutherland). The graduation speech by Rex Tillerson to the cadets was excellent – all agreed. Judy and I, along with Henry’s grandparents, Agnes and Bill Atwill, attended Henry Atwill’s graduation party out in the county at a bed-and-breakfast held by Henry parents, Anne and Bennett. After the New Market Parade, Henry Atwill was interviewed by a Roanoke TV channel in front of Virginia Mourning Her Dead about the Atwills who attended the Institute in regard to the Battle of New Market. As for the 65th itself, which was great, that summary of events and happenings was outlined in my past class notes. Before you know it, the 70th will be upon us.

Gayle Shorter died the last of July in Camden, Alabama, from cancer, which she had been fighting for some time. Gayle and Wyatt’s youngest son, Chris, lived with her the last few years and took care of her, as well as her

beautifully planted yard. Her services were to be at an old restored Episcopal Church out in the country near where she lived. Jack Trigg, along with Judy and I, visited her several times over the last few years when we were in Birmingham for a University of Tennessee versus Alabama football game. During one of the visits, Gayle took us to see the old church, which was under restoration, and related some of its history (which I do not remember now).

Bill Nelson’s stroke prevented him from making the 65th. He has been going through rehab since then, and Parker Cross and I have talked to him several times since the reunion.

He is making good progress, and his son has been passing on his emails. Jim said his doctors expect continued improvement over the next four months. Bill is now in California near his son for the remainder of his rehab and thus has a new address and cellphone number.

Betty Woodward has had some medical problems recently but is well on the mend and expects to be traveling abroad soon with family – the South Pacific, would you believe.

In my last class notes, I noted our visit with our retired VMI chaplain, retired U.S. Air Force Col. Charles Caudill, the Sunday of graduation. However, I did not have room left in my notes for the enclosed picture of Charles and Jan with our family after church services at the Methodist church in Lexington. We are limited to five pictures per set of class notes. Charles and Jan now live in Florida but return to Lexington and the Institute often.

I hope all of you have had a great summer as we have had here on Norris Lake, Tennessee, with our daughter, Jennifer, and grandchildren

Class of 1953: Addie Jay Beacham, Bill Noell’s granddaughter, just before becoming a high school senior.

57

Class Notes

Class of 1953: Judy and Bill Noell at the graduation of Henry Atwill ’18, along with Henry’s parents, Bennett and Ann Atwill. Henry is the grandson of Dr. William and Agnes Atwill.

Class of 1953: Frank Spencer at the wedding of Justin and Abby Morgan May 19. Justin is Frank’s oldest grandson.

Class of 1953: Bill and Judy Noell with former VMI chaplain Charles Caudill and his wife, Jan, outside a Methodist church in Lexington. The Noells were accompanied with other family, including grandchildren.

Class of 1953: Frank Spencer and Bill Noell at the VMI spring football gathering. here for three and two weeks and Brad for a week. As I write these notes, our adopted cadets have just returned to the Institute Aug. 11, and thus another year starts for the Institute, with Cadet Weston Gloger ’19 graduating this year. As you will note, these notes are shorter

58

than usual, as you BRs have not communicated much this summer – been having too good a time this summer, traveling and such?

1954

J.M. Perry Archer

Greetings and Salutations, I received a letter from Polo Meyer giving us some very good news. He and Paul Kuhne were roommates, and Polo remained close friends and in contact with Paul and his wife, Ramona, for more than 65 years. After Paul passed on, Polo stayed in touch with Ramona by phone. Polo has been single for 15 years.

In April 2017, Ramona mentioned the possibility of Polo’s visiting her for a little vacation in Weeki Wachee, Florida (Polo was then living in Valparaiso, Indiana). He did that in September. There was a follow-up visit with the approval of Ramona’s three daughters and sonsin-law. The happy result: Since Nov. 17, 2017, Polo and Ramona are now a couple, living together in Weeki Wachee, and have exchanged rings and vows to be together until death should part them. May God bless their union.

Al Mattox wrote about the Fourth of July celebrations which used to be held in Staunton’s Gypsy Hill Park. (He and I grew up in Staunton.) There were large crowds attending – some as large as 40,000 people. Recently, another celebration on the Fourth of July was held, after many years of having none. A feature of these celebrations was usually entertainment by Staunton’s own famed Statler Brothers.

One of the shows I saw featured one of my favorite country singers, Johnny Rodriguez. The acts came riding into the park on floats. To me, it was really big time for my small hometown.

Al’s daughter, Dorothy, runs an outfit called the Children’s Art Network, an unfunded program, and it was there this year setting up a booth to sell T-shirts. Lots of vendors. One of the volunteers is the daughter of one of the Statlers. Another Statler daughter used to baby-sit for Al’s wife years ago.

George Ramer sent a letter and related he had been reading letters he received in 1950 from various colleges which had offered him athletic scholarships. George was a mainstay at VMI in football and baseball, and he was in great demand when he was about to graduate from high school back in 1950. His story of coming to the Institute is unique.

George went to his coach because he was in a quandary about what to do concerning the recruitment efforts of the schools courting him. The coach was a graduate of the University of Richmond and an All-Southern running back in the 1930s and did not miss a beat. He said, “Go to VMI; they take care of their own.” George got a full scholarship, and a man named Tucker E. Carlton picked up the tab but extracted an assurance. He said, in essence, “Someday, George, either pay for a scholarship or send a son to VMI.” Fast forward about 26 years – George’s first child, G. Allen Ramer ’80 graduated with the Class of 1980. Promise made, promise kept. And that is the VMI (and the Ramer) way.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers got George after his graduation in civil engineering. He was sent to Fort Belvoir and from there to the Special Category Army with the Air Force. He served at Fort Wolters in Mineral Wells, Texas. He was sent to Baffin Island, Canada, with his unit to extend a 4,000-foot landing strip to 5,000 feet for fighter plane accommodation. After Canada, he

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes was sent back to Texas. Fort Wolters became a training base.

Don Lamanna died May 3, 2018, in Yorkville, Illinois. Don was born Oct. 22, 1932, in Brooklyn, New York. He served in the Air Force for three years and then worked as a sales engineer for Lockjoint Pipe Company in East Orange, New Jersey, after which he was with the Cetex Company in Bloomingdale, Illinois, for 40 years. Don loved to tinker and do household repair jobs as favorite activities. He was a member of Orchard Evangelical Free Church and the Republican Club of Arlington Heights, Illinois. He and his wife, Jan, had three sons and numerous grandchildren. Don was a family man, as it is said, and loved by all. Jan wrote about their life together. Don’s last illness was painful and protracted. She is at peace with the realization that Don is, as she says, resting with the Lord and His angels.

She tells of the closeness of the Lamanna family, going camping, doing the things we do with children and their various activities growing up. Fond memories. She and Don took three trips to Europe, kissed the Blarney Stone in Ireland (she is of Irish descent) and took off-the-beaten-path side trips, marveling in awe of castles.

Ollie Hux attended another rat send-off, this time in Denver, sponsored by the Rocky Mountain VMI Chapter. Incoming cadets at the event were Gunner Carlile, Sarah Anshutz and Trevor Weygnst. (There were more rats who did not appear at the send-off, along with members of the chapter.) There was a send-off in Houston, as well. This is an event I had not heard about until Ollie mentioned it. Things have improved since our time. We packed a suitcase and were put on various conveyances with a kiss and a wave for the most part. No big deal. I have a vivid memory of standing on the Parade Ground in 1950 in the baggy blue cotton overalls (weren’t they “purty,” now) we were initially issued. We had all surrendered our civvies, our hair and our individuality only a few days earlier. My mother, who loved VMI and dated there in the 1920s, came and brought my sister up from Staunton that day for a visit. No one had told me, so when I saw them standing in front of Jackson Arch pointing at me and my sister, Custis, with her hand to her mouth while we were out

2018-Issue 4

in the heat and stuck, I remember thinking, “Go home!” and, “What in the world have I gotten myself into now?” We were about to find out. I don’t know about the rest of you reading this, but after that and for some months afterward, I was not a happy camper. Oh no, during that year, I applied to and was accepted at three schools: The University of Virginia, Washington and Lee University and Hampden-Sydney College.

The Rat Line was never a happy experience for me. I wrote to my father that I wanted to leave VMI. He told me firmly that if I left VMI, I would always know I was a quitter. He knew just what to say to someone like me. I thought, “Well, I’ll show him.” I stayed, and I am glad. I still have his letter somewhere. (Note: I do not mean to imply that anyone who departed during out 4th Class year was a quitter. My father knew, and I knew, that I wanted to leave because it was just too tough and unpleasant for me.

Personally, I would have known that I was a quitter, which was unacceptable to me.)

Following the passing of Norman Plunkett, I have heard from Sallie Plunkett with some interesting information. She read about the Institute’s Memorial Ring Program, which can accept class rings for the ring collection at the VMI Museum. Norm never wore his 1954 ring for some reason – Sallie never knew why – so it was in pristine condition. His ring was accepted for the museum by Col. Keith Gibson ’77, who wrote: “Due to the excellent quality of your husband’s 1954 class ring, we have decided to add it to the permanent collection of the VMI Museum.” I asked Sallie what would Norm like to have said about him for the VMI Review in addition to what had already been said. She wrote: “Norman was so proud to say he was a graduate of VMI ’54. He spoke fondly of many of his brother rats.” Thank you, Sallie. Oh, Norm’s not wearing his ring was the opposite of John Windle’s practice; he never removed his.

Both Norm and John always loved the Institute and honored the ring and all that it stands for.

Len Wagner called. You may remember that he was in Air Force ROTC at VMI when the Air Force stopped, temporarily, taking cadets for pilots at some point in

1953, and so some were dropped – about five or six. Thus Len was drafted in the U.S. Army Sept. 1, 1953! He had to go through basic training. (Sheesh. After the Rat Line.)

He was assigned a medical MOS but managed because of his engineering studies at VMI to become a company draftsman. (The military never seems to avoid an opportunity to underutilize talent, but it was a break for Len.) Finally back to VMI to graduate with the Class of 1956. We have reported some of this. Happy ending, though. He ended up working for the Air Force at Langley Air Force Base. He traveled extensively for Tactical Air Command in support and went to many bases. Len retired after a long career as a structural engineer. In the years before that, he worked at other places. I told him I would have been really unhappy if I had been forced into the draft in September 1952, but Len said there were things he could have done to stay at the Institute but didn’t, so while he wasn’t very happy about it, it was his fault after all. Len had another blow. His son, Leonard Dale Wagner ’82, worked for Nick Servidio ’55 as an engineer. Leonard Dale discovered late onset epilepsy and succumbed to that disease in 2004. Medication effects were casually connected. An interesting story told to Len once by Leonard Dale was that VMI beat Army in football and (something Navy never got done) stole the Army mule! What a time that must have been.

(Note: Do any of you have some interesting VMI or personal tales to tell? Please send them to me – preferred – or call me at 218-814-4859.

I take copious notes and do my very best to tell everything accurately, but something in writing or by email works better.)

Thanks, Perry

1955

Read Hanmer

I am in a funk, because Lois and I are in the midst of packing for a move to a retirement

59

Class Notes

Class of 1954: Incoming cadets Gunnar Carlile, Sarah Anschutz and Trevor Weygandt with Ollie Hux at a rat sendoff hosted jointly by the Pikes Peak and Rocky Mountain Chapters July 22, 2018. home in North Carolina. By the time you read this we will be settled in Charlotte. What follows below is an amalgam of items I have received for these notes, in no particular order: I got a note from Bob Coffee. He was with us in 1951-52 and subsequently graduated from the University of Texas with a Ph.D. in architecture and practiced architecture for 36 years.

He served in the Army Transportation Corps as the Honor Guard platoon leader at Fort Eustis. He also was in the Army Reserve in Texas, retiring from the reserve as a captain. He now is deeply involved in the sculpture world and says he’d be interested in competing for any future sculptures the Institute might be contemplating. Thanks for the update, Bob. Tom Williamson wrote: “Read, I am excited that you will be in North Carolina. You will be close enough to me that a lunch meeting is reasonable. It occurs to me that you will have to change your allegiances from the Nationals to the Braves and from the Redskins to the Panthers. You will be unable to avoid the Panthers.” Tom, it will be hard to wean me from the Washington Nationals, since I have been a fan since 1947.

Dusty Rhodes writes: “The Rhodeses have had a rough go – in early July, Rody got her feet tangled and fell face down on a concrete floor.

Fortunately, no bones or teeth were broken, but she was otherwise pretty badly injured. In the process, they performed a CT scan and catheterization and had a stent implanted to correct a 95 percent blockage in her heart. Thanks to modern medicine, her prognosis is good.”

60

Responding to my birthday card, Mimi Shattuck’s son, Mike, wrote that his mother “has her good days and days when she sleeps a lot.

She is generally in good spirits, and her caregivers are great.”

Ever the faithful correspondent, Travis Russell wrote: “Hi, Read, here is some news from the Pacific Northwest. Our Northwest Chapter is having its annual picnic and rat send-off Aug. 12. We generally have a good showing of VMI alums. So far, I have been from the oldest class.

There have been a couple of grads from the Class of 1956 but all others are much younger.

There are advantages to being the oldest in attendance. I got a prize. We are close to Joint Base Lewis-McChord, so we get several active duty alumni attending. My wife and I are still doing a lot of cycling in various parts of the world. We will be spending most of September and October in Italy. Not much cycling this time, however. Both of us are fortunate to still have good health, so we can do a lot of traveling and other activities. It is always interesting to see how many VMI alumni settle in this part of the country. In fact, our chapter president is a Virginia-born-and-raised alumnus.”

Barney Lawless favored me with this input: “Not too much happening here. We went to Palo Alto to see Helen’s grandson and granddaughter graduate and saw a wild parade in Oakland after the Golden State Warriors won the NBA championships. Then it was off to North Carolina to see our first great-grandchild. Somewhere in this edition of the Review, you’ll see a provisional appointment for Wyatt Lawless – Class of 2040! Seems strange to call my son, Ed ’81, by the title of “gramps!”

Here is a long and welcome, although sad, note from Stu Adams: “In the words we heard in class from time to time, I have been ‘grossly deficient’ in providing any news for you to use.

Over the past dozen years, I have had little to report that was not medical or tied to Norma’s dementia problems. As a result of Norma’s latest – a bout with a very stubborn UTI which did not respond to the first round of antibiotics – she is in the hospital, and I find some time to send you this. My days ‘on duty’ are about 16-18 hours daily. I have always said that the Alzheimer’s book (‘The 36 Hour Day’) was short about 12 hours, although very useful. Regardless of the type of dementia (ALZ, vascular, Lewy bodies or Norma’s heavy metals

– principally Mercury) the end results are very similar with some variations, and all are quite individual. Norma’s journey was very gradual to start but has accelerated over the past couple of years. She is reasonably healthy except for the dementia but is unsteady on her legs with balance problems and cannot focus on TV, movies, instructions or conversations. Hence, I am pretty much tied down and cannot attend any mini reunions (e.g., Virginia Beach), which is my loss. I have never been able to attend any of the monthly happy hour meetings of the local alumni chapter, much to my regret, although I would probably be real ‘Old Corps’ for youngsters that do show up.”

Pete Haake wrote: “Read, I know it must be a difficult decision to make when you have been in a place so long. We are so close to our kids (one is across the street in our original family home). One son is about 2 miles away, and our daughter is 20 minutes away. Of six grandchildren, four are local and two away (one in Chicago, one in Florida). Our summer is hot but good. We are on the St. Lawrence River a lot, and that is the place to be in this weather.

Fishing has not been as good as swimming has.

As I peruse the email list, it kindles so many good memories and hopefully some good future ones. My very best regards in bonds to you Lois and all BRs.” Ron and Nita Bryan favored me with the following: “Read, we are sorry to hear about your impending move to Charlotte. We all know that if we hang around long enough, these decisions have to be made. Nita and I wish you smooth sailing during this move. We took our annual trip in March, and Nita fell the first night there and cut her head just above her right eye. That required an emergency room visit and 11 stitches. She did not feel well the whole week. We had plans to have dinner with Bob and Clara Rennicks while there but had to cancel. Bob and I did get to play a round of golf together, as we always enjoy doing.

In June, we had another wonderful visit with Frank and Judy Brooke at their lake home.

Good company, good drinks, lots of old stories and a great time. They are doing well. So much from the Bryans. You and Lois take care of yourselves and have a smooth relocation.”

Bob Beale filled me in with the following: “Mary Ellen and I have sold our home in Florida and now live full time at Kingsmill

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Golf Resort in Williamsburg, Virginia. I have fully recovered from my February 2017 stroke and have recently finished a heart cardioversion procedure, etc. (too complicated for this correspondent) procedure; hopefully, no more A-Fib/Flutter. We will cruise with Viking Nov. 22 to Cuba, Panama and the Pacific, ending in Los Angeles Dec. 13. I still play golf. Any BR visiting Williamsburg, please give us a call (757-259-5966) and join us for a drink, golf or whatever.”

I must now turn to the most difficult part of these notes.

I received a notice that Frank Lloyd Beale Sr. died Nov. 5, 2017. He is survived by his wife, Patricia B. Beale. Frank attended VMI and the Southeastern Signal School. His career in retail included Western Auto, Chuck’s Supermarket and Hannaford. He was interred in Franklin, Virginia.

Gene Ferguson died April 7, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Frances Sherry Ferguson, and numerous children and grandchildren. Gene graduated from the Virginia Military Institute in 1955. He was an avid fan of VMI and attended many of the school’s events. Gene served in the United States Marine Corps. After his service, he operated several ready-mix concrete companies and later he began his own concrete inspection business.

An avid builder of sailboats, he proudly built and sailed his 40-foot-foot ketch, “Esprit.”

Gene spent many hours volunteering for the Lions Club, Masons and Jaycees.

Otis Patrick “Pat” Johnson died May 14, 2018. He attended the Virginia Military Institute where he earned an electrical engineering degree and was commissioned as a second lieutenant in the Air Force. He completed flight training and served with the 526th Fighter Interceptor Squadron in Germany. After leaving the Air Force, he joined the International Paper Company as an electrical engineer. In 1960 Pat began 12 years with the Utility Commission in West Memphis as general manager engineer.

He also worked for Shreeve Engineering in Little Rock. For the remaining 25 years of his career, he ran his own company, Pat Johnson Engineering. Pat was involved with numerous professional and civic organizations.

Finally, here is Jim Openshaw’s obituary: Born Nov. 14, 1933, in Newport, Rhode Island, he was the son of Dorothy Harvest and

2018-Issue 4

James Arnold Openshaw. The family moved to Southampton, Massachusetts, where he spent his boyhood years. He attended the Williston Northampton School, class of 1951, and was captain of the ski team. He matriculated with the Class of 1955 at Virginia Military Institute and graduated with distinction in civil engineering. He received a commission in the U.S. Army and was assigned to the 1st Engineer Battalion (Combat), with duty at Fort Belvoir; Fort Benning; Fort Riley; and Verdun, France.

He was honorably discharged in 1959 and returned to the D.C. area with his young family to begin a civilian career in the construction industry. After several years managing federal building construction projects for the Arthur Venneri Construction Co., he joined Cherry Hill Sand & Gravel Co., Inc. as general manager and later as president, establishing it as a civil construction business with headquarters in Jessup, Maryland. He purchased the company in 1978 and changed its name to Cherry Hill Construction, Inc. Under his ownership and leadership, the company flourished and grew to become a major highway and heavy construction contractor in the mid-Atlantic region. He is survived by his wife, Pamela Openshaw; first wife, Barbara Falge Openshaw; two sisters, Judy Findeisen of Killington, Vermont, and Dorothy Naylor of Calais, Vermont; three sons, James A. Openshaw III of Norfolk, Virginia, David B. Openshaw of Annapolis, Maryland, and Mark F. Openshaw of Jacksonville, Florida; and daughter, Ann O. DeLawder of Bel Air, Maryland. He had 14 grandchildren and one great-granddaughter.

1956

Richard M. Smith

Dear BRs and SRs, This hot, humid and wet summer has not been very productive as far as information to pass on to the class. I apologize, but couldn’t convince anyone to send me anything of significance to print. Therefore the picture of “Snow Girl” featuring Skip Montagna and Bill Alexander will have to do for recalling some things that took place more than 60 years ago. Thanks

to Larry Miller for recreating the picture.

Yours in the spirit, Dick

Class of 1956: Skip Montagna and Bill Alexander in 1954.

1957

George Sydnor Jr. Howard Lawrence

Remember: “All the news that is fit to print.”

Our news depends on your input. We value your news, photos, suggestions and constructive criticisms. Let us hear from you; we count on everyone to be a Class of ’57 reporter correspondent.

As an example, Carole Whittle has made an excellent suggestion that each edition of class notes contain a brief humorous story (that is printable) from our days in barracks.

(Anyone remember the notorious bomb assembler, “Doc” Hardy ’56 and the explosion that rocked New Barracks one winter evening in early 1955?) Of course, husband John would not qualify as a bomb maker, as he was always preoccupied with other endeavors. It has been rumored that “Stud” was the originator of the “Virginia is for Lovers” slogan.

It is interesting to note that, in the most recent national academic rankings, VMI continues to do well. Even more notable, only 47 percent of

61

Class Notes

Class of 1957: The Whittles, Sydnors and Lawrences had dinner with Don and Judy Coombs at the Roanoke Country Club May 24, 2018. those who apply to the Institute are accepted.

This percentage ranking is second only to the College of William & Mary in Virginia. We can be proud that VMI is, and will continue to be, one of the best schools anywhere; the school where we endured, lived, learned and grew into manhood. And so, many thanks to the 69 brother rats and 11 sister rats for their generous contributions to our Class of ’57 Annual Fund Campaign for Fiscal Year 2017-18 ending June 30.

And a tip of the hat with special recognition to our widow sister rats for their strong support: Joan Atkeson, Judith Fabella, Ann Gilmore, Patricia Hammond, Marilynn Landis, Diantha McKeel, Deborah Michelsen, Betty Mixson, Delores Parker, Patricia Saunders and Cheiko Schwendinger.

On behalf of the Corps of Cadets, the primary beneficiary of the Annual Fund, we thank you all. We met our participation goal of 80 gifts. Our campaign victory letter was mailed in July with the contributors’ names as listed in our Class of ’57 2017-18 Catawba Club roster.

As of this writing, there are 104 brother rats still standing, and as our ranks thin, it is as important as ever that we stay in touch with one another. To this end, we are in the process of launching the Class of ’57 phone contact program. Ben Elmore has volunteered to be our class contact commander (el comandante).

Volunteering to assist Ben are Garland Sullivan, Joe Moody and Jay Musser.

Ben’s first assignment was to find our MIA

62

Class of 1957: Col. and Mrs. William Huffcut, Lt. Col. and Mrs. Ben Elmore, and Mr. and Mrs. Paul Phillips after they attended visitation of BR Sidney Perry in Pensacola, Florida.

BRs – those we have not heard from in quite some time. We are pleased to report that “Chief Spook” Ben, with his contacts around the world and information sources of which cannot be divulged, has had great success.

Those BRs found and talked with include Vic Wolf (Costa Rica), Bill Benson, Bob Blocker, Wiley Clapp, Waverly Dickens, Mark Doty, Jerry Harden, Bill Haas, Carl Hellstrom, Charlie Jeckell, John Kilday, Frank Kline, Art McCrary, Phil Miller, Larry Wise, Bob Rader, Tom Robinson, George Niedermayer, Bob Rader, Skip Richardson, Pete Riddle, Jim Snead and Larry Wise. Many calls to Bruce Dunseth yielded only a voicemail recorder.

Other family sources indicated to Ben that Bruce never answers his phone ... for anyone.

Ben further reported: “All these good BRs are ‘on board’ with us.”

Vic Wolf has retired from a life of ranching (horses and cattle), and agriculture (no names of crops mentioned), and says “all is well” on his ranch in Costa Rica.

Mark Doty is gainfully employed, teaching chemistry and physics at Lee Academy, a private school in Bishopville, South Carolina.

Mark indicated he has no intention of retiring.

Waverly Dickens and wife Margaret moved into a retirement home in Texas and can be reached at 817-202-5279.

Jim Rust reported a new address at 1801 Northwoods Lane, Salem, VA 24153 and phone number of 540-387-1139.

Joe Moody has talked with BR and VMI football teammate Bob Rader, in Alpharetta,

Georgia. They couldn’t help but reminisce about Sam Woolwine ’58, fellow teammate and VMI football Hall of Fame inductee. Now deceased, Sam had matriculated midterm our 4th Class year and, along with Bob (who had another year of eligibility), played on the undefeated team that fall of 1957. No one will ever forget that season.

Garland Sullivan had an interesting chat with Eleanor Dick. During the conversation, Garland reminded her that Bill Dick was the ultimate great coach for those brother rats struggling with history and writing skills. Class agent note: That’s why the rest of us took engineering. Garland has great appreciation for Bill’s contribution to our struggling classmates’ academic survival.

Ben’s phone call to Bob Blocker found Bob now retired on his Texas ranch, Northern Camps Ranch, near Markham, Texas, famous for being a stop on the Texas and New Orleans Railroad. Class agent note: Now, all y’all knew that, did you not? Bob left VMI after our 3rd Class year for the greener pastures of the Longhorns in Austin, Texas. Following graduation, Bob moved on to a life in Brazil for a number of years until he returned to Texas about 15 years ago. Bob can be reached at 979-8435275 or Northern Camps Ranch Company, 4-and-a-half miles North Markham SM 2175, Markham, TX 77456.

Ben’s efforts located Brother Rat Cliff Dowdy’s son, from whom we learned that Cliff had died three years ago in April 2015.

Ben further reported that Phil Miller is living in South Carolina with the kind assistance of his caregiver daughter. During Ben’s call, Phil was working his memory for “all its worth” to “well up” old times. He has suffered over the years from the effects of Agent Orange from Vietnam service and a later stroke. Hang in there Phil; never, never give up.

Ben’s contact with Pete Riddle found him well and getting ready to depart on a trip to Florida. Pete was always a man of few words; this contact only served as verification of the fact.

Jack Trant reported on a recent pleasant visit and stay with Brother Rat Ed Powell in Burlington, North Carolina. Ed has a twin brother who graduated from VMI in our dykes’ Class of 1960. One of them, Jim Powell, was Jack Trant’s dyke. The Powells have been very successful in

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes their business enterprises and likewise have been very generous to many worthy institutions they support. Ed and Jack graduated from Duke Medical, and like all the VMI physicians from our era, give great credit to Col. “Doc” Carroll for his influence on and for them. “Doc” Carroll was famous for his ability to get his boys in the best medical schools. The revered memories of Col. Carroll.

With our contact reconnection program, we do not want to invade your privacy with too many calls. We plan to carefully limit the number of calls and will pass on the news these calls generate via the class notes. If you are interested in this initiative and would like to assist us, please call Ben at 850-434-6642 or email him at benelmore@yahoo.com On to other news. Back in May, the Whittles, Sydnors and Lawrences hosted a dinner at the Roanoke Country Club for the visiting Don and Judy Coombs. As is normal for the course, there were lots of stories (of doubtful authenticity) from barracks days, with an equal number of good laughs, knowing all the while there was little documentation to back up said stories. Don and Judy are looking at the Roanoke area as a possible future roost to escape the torrid Texas summer heat; no disrespect to Texans, of course – especially those in the El Paso area where the midday summer heat averages 125 degrees in the shade per George, who spent two years there while at Fort Bliss (wherever that name came from, as there was no bliss to be found there). Truth be known, Don’s visit was to accept a full scholarship from the Whittle Foundation to come to the area, as “Stud” has run out of golf partners.

As a finale to the story, Don later reported as having been stopped by a Roanoke police officer for a questionable violation July 4 while they were on their second visit to the Roanoke area. After the cop reviewed Don’s driving violation (he was guilty), the officer remarked that he could not give a VMI man a ticket on the Fourth of July. How about that, folks!

When the Coombses visit us again, G.E. Murray, who owns 1,500 feet of waterfront on Smith Mountain Lake, has offered to treat them to a lake cruise via his motor-powered pontoon boat to see the remarkable lake’s waterside developments along its 50-mile length.

Several of us locals have been so invited over the years, but the visit never materialized; is

2018-Issue 4

this now our chance, G.E.?

We have had several emails from Alice Newbill, who reported that she and Bob live on their farm near Smith Mountain Lake not far from G.E.’s lake property. Bob has retired from his construction business but is working on a few health issues – aren’t we all. Alice had been in phone contact with Betsy Davis (the Newbills and Davises are old friends from Rocky Mount days). Betsy lives in Richmond (Henrico County) now, where she spends days with Russell as one of his caregivers. She appreciates calls from ’57 folks and reports them to Russell. Betsy may be reached at 540-6390777. Bill Huffcut also had a phone visit with Betsy recently to get a report on Russell and to say hello.

Bill and Betty Huffcut, Ben and Damaris Elmore, and Paul and Ann Phillips had dinner together after attending the family-viewing gathering for Sid Perry in Pensacola, Florida, in late spring. They were well received by Sid’s family and wife, Madge. Sid was the third generation to attend VMI following his father and grandfather. Sid had attended a four-year military prep school in Chattanooga in preparation for the rigors of the “I.” We all remember his constant upbeat attitude and friendly smile.

Several of us had enjoyed phone conversations with Sid in recent months. He was fascinated to learn about the physical changes at VMI and remained steadfast in his support of VMI. We received a nice note from Lynn Wiggins with pictures of Ben and Lynn and their Tidewater pals, John and Betty St. George, as they toured Europe on an April-May river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel. John was renewing his memories of Army days in Amsterdam, where he would never forget “glorious tulip garden” at Keukenhof, but he was especially taken with the “come-hither” Dutch girls in their wooden shoes. Betty and Lynn only remarked on the beautiful spring sights along the Rhine.

Howard had a recent phone contact with his roommate from 4th Class year, Bill “Ensign” Benson. Our 4th Class roommates, both deceased, were Tom Atkeson and Tom Robertson (Roanoke, 16 days). Bill now resides in Rome, Georgia, and is “hanging in there,” like the rest of us. He and his Annapolis graduate brother visited VMI last winter to attend the graduation of a female cadet who they had

sponsored for a boxing scholarship. The women Keydet boxers have made quite a good name for themselves, in the ring and out. Their boxing matches are very popular with the Corps.

Bill still has his ’57 guidon flag and has offered to donate it to our class for future reunion parades. Maybe we could get one of the lady wrestlers to lead us on the march to barracks at our 65th, four short years from now.

Recently, there was another of Wiley Clapp’s excellent articles featured in The American Rifleman. The article was on the famous Colt Python .357 magnum pistol, which has been out of production for quite a while. As it turns out, in a discussion with Bill Huffcut on the subject, Bill had a Colt Python .357 magnum pistol that he treasured but somehow mysteriously lost possession of it in Vietnam. (“That is a story for another day.”) Bill said he later got lucky in that a Marine general friend of his was named president of Colt Arms Co. and, through this friendship, Colt “handmade” Bill a replacement Python. Bill sent a picture; it’s a beauty, and interestingly enough, Colt plans to restart its production within the next few months.

Periodic chats with Drewry Fox indicate that life continues to be good with him; he and his brother, Mike Fox ’62, continue to go on their annual trout fishing safari on the Bighorn River in Montana in an area just south of the Crow Indian reservation near Fort Smith.

A recent note from Bill Gay revealed that he and wife Frances have decided to remain in the St. Louis area during retirement years and have downsized. Their new address is 710 S. Hanley

Class of 1957: John and Betty St. George on a Rhine River cruise in April and May 2018. Ben and Lynn Wiggins cruised with the St. Georges.

63

Class Notes

1958

Lee McCown

Class of 1957: Ben and Lynn Wiggins on a Rhine River cruise in April and May 2018. John and Betty St. George were also on the cruise.

Road, Apt. 18 B, St. Louis, MO 63105.

Nick Kallelis, one of our dependable correspondents, recently sent us the “Four Minute View of America,” which dramatized very effectively the sacrifices so many have made for our liberty. It is very moving; take a look at it if you have not already done so.

And then, there was a nice note from no one other than the infamous K.K. Dickinson, the stalwart student of renown in the civil engineering group in Nichols Engineering Hall.

Kenny reported that he had recently spoken with Dawn Thomas over at the nearby John Knox retirement village. She and Dixie are quite content there and are doing well. Dixie is still driving, much to the concern of the FDOT, who has special escort squad available in the event that Dixie may require assistance. As fate would have it, Bob and Dot Wood are their next door neighbors, and Kenny reports they are also doing well and “holding their own.”

The Gen. K.K. enclosed a newspaper clipping entitled, “The Black and Gold Gala,” recognizing John Poffenbarger and wife Susan for their talent, professional achievements and service to the Kanawha Valley community, both having made their mark on the state and national stage. J.T., or “Poff,” has practiced law in Charleston, West Virginia, for more than 50 years and is a nationally recognized bond attorney. The Hon. Poff served as a senator in the West Virginia State Senate from 1967-74.

He currently serves on the West Virginia State University Foundation board of directors.

Wow! What more can we say? With that we will close this notes edition for the VMI Class of 1957.

We are proud to be your class agents.

George and Howard

64

Hello, all. It’s been an unusual summer in old Richmond with few scorching temperatures but plenty of rain. Laura has enjoyed the rain a bit more than I have.

We are preparing these notes earlier than usual so we can head to Duke Johnston’s service at Arlington National Cemetery, followed by a two-week organized tour of Scotland which will include two of my cousins. It’s mostly an architectural tour but will include the Isle of Skye, a visit to the Scotch museum (ah!) and the big Edinburgh military tattoo.

Laura is threatening to bring ear plugs for the latter, as she is not as big a fan of bagpipes as I am.

As of this date, the following BRs and wives are planning to attend Duke’s service: Linda and Brooke Doggett, Bill Dunn, Joe Gray, Charlie Hayes, Becky and Onza Hyatt, Moon Menefee, Roy Palmer, Jerry Paull, Eleana and Stuart Whitehurst, Jane and Stirling Williamson and Warren Yaun. Also coming is Howard Moss ’60, a fellow football player with Duke who was also a career Air Force pilot.

Annette is delighted that so many BRs are coming to honor Duke. Our friend Joe Rougeau, a Canadian who retired from U.S. Air Force as a colonel, tells us Duke was the greatest test pilot in the Air Force during the service time they shared. Joe’s other VMI connection is his son, Greg ’89, who graduated in the Class of ’89 with our son, Derek ’89.

Annette tells me that Duke once changed a play that Coach McKenna sent in during a game. Duke’s play went for a touchdown, and when he got chewed out by the coach, Duke asked him, “Did you like the results?”

Annette reported some more recent results we know Duke would like: VMI has hired their granddaughter, Hannah Johnston, as a chemistry professor. Her Ph.D. in chemistry is from Texas Christian University, where she earned a full scholarship. While Hannah’s father, Mark Johnston ’84, also graduated

from VMI, Hannah had never visited until she came for her job interview. She was very impressed with how she was welcomed by everyone at the Institute. We look forward to meeting her at Arlington National Cemetery and tailgating with her this fall.

Jim Poteet sent word that he recently had dinner with Cadet Michael Tomaso ’21, the recipient of our ’58 football scholarship. “Last night, to celebrate the return to VMI of Michael, I went to their family restaurant for dinner. Because Michael had gone fishing and caught some big red snapper, we had a gourmet dinner – part of it the snapper but also fried green tomatoes, hush puppies, coleslaw, potatoes and bread pudding for dessert! Wow, it was good!

“Michael said our record is going to be much improved this year! He had a really good year and is now a civil engineering student and promised good studies. Mainly, he is super glad his rat year is over!”

We heard from Michael, too: “I have had a great but tiring summer and am ready to be back at the Institute! I got a job working as a deckhand on a charter boat, so all I’ve done is fish and work out these past two months. I’m ready to get back on my normal schedule! Last night, I had dinner with Mr. Poteet at my family’s restaurant and heard some crazy stories about your Rat Line.

“These past two [summer] months have gone by extremely fast, but I’m happy for the memories I’ve made! Looking back on my first year and the Rat Line, it went by just as fast. It was nowhere near as tough as the Class of ’58’s Rat Line, but it was still the hardest year of my life. Since I was redshirted this year, I stayed back whenever the team would travel, so I got really good at the RDC’s Saturday ruck marches. I feel like this made me have more relations with my other BRs. I hope to keep these relationships this coming year. I will be rooming with one other football player and two wrestlers.” (Michael told me later that beating The Citadel is his dream!)

I told Michael that I guess all rat years are memorable, just in different ways. Ours was much longer, with the Rat Line ending around May 1, and probably heavier on verbal abuse than his but lighter on physical stuff. That’s a big improvement in the system, for sure.

Gene Grayson answered my plea for notes

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes with, “Nothing going on in Radford. Had a picnic in Dublin for five soon-to-be rats. This is done annually.” That’s quite a turnout from your part of the world, Gene, the equal of ’58s from the Radford area: You, Bob Buckland, Howard Dean, Bob Jordan and Walter Leach.

Gene also reported: “Got through my fourth bladder cancer operation and am now in rehab to get the left shoulder stronger for a fourth shoulder operation. This one will be a reverse replacement where the ball and socket are swapped!” The best to you, Gene, facing all these challenges at once. I think I understand joint replacement, but you will have to explain “swapping” to me.

Speaking of high school classmates who came to VMI together, Frank Hancock, Bill Sink, Billy Thomas, Jack Woodson and I all graduated from Jefferson Senior High School in Roanoke in 1954, when Gail Barnhart was our lovely homecoming queen. Gail is now married to Frank, and it was great to see her at the 60th Reunion. Frank continues to keep his good humor while recovering from heart surgery. He tells me he’s had to learn new ways of getting dressed. It was good to meet Gail’s daughter, Diane Turner, via phone when I called to check up on him. She lives a few doors down from Gail and Frank and is keeping an eye on them.

Sully Griffin continues to work on what must be one of the biggest engineering projects of his long career: Moving his house on the Gulf of Mexico farther from a beach that loses 5 to 7 feet a year. Sully’s career at Pipeline Technology, which has offices in 14 countries, is ongoing as he has two jobs in the Houston area. His passport has 44 countries stamped in it.

Before the latest hurricane, his house had a row of houses in front of it, now gone. The front porch of his house is now in the water.

New pilings are required, because those under the house in its beach location go 12 feet down and had to be cut off at ground level to facilitate the move. It will be moved 100 yards back from the beach and 75 yards to the left. Some sand dunes must be rebuilt. It sounds like the equivalent of the D-Day landing to me. As Sully succinctly put it: “This has been one hell of a deal.” In addition to that daunting assignment, Sully is helping his wife and son through major health issues. We wish all of them the best.

2018-Issue 4

Paul Royer sent the following droll report of the type I hear when we have lunch together in various places that serve good beer: “No activity to report. I am in charge of maintenance here, including grass cutting, gutter cleaning, car washing, leaf raking in the fall, minor repairs and lightbulb replacement. Other than that, I just read and sit around.” I know Paul does indeed read a lot because he passes his 10-pound books on to me.

Carolyn and Bill Harshaw had an exciting visit with Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 in July. Here’s Bill’s report: “I think you knew I owned one of the rare VMI regimental flags.

Col. Keith Gibson ’77 [director of the VMI Museum System who was kind enough to send photos he took at the event], told me that only four probably exist, and mine was given to me by Sam Witt 12 years ago on my 70th birthday. Since we have moved, I had no place to proudly display the flag and could think of no better place than in the governor’s office.

“Only 12 of us were in attendance. General Peay ’62 could not attend but sent Brigadier General Dallas Clark ’99 [director of finance, administration and support]. Others attending were Buddy Bryan ’71 [VMI Foundation chief operating officer], Pat and Keith Gibson ’77, Sally and Sam Witt, Conrad Hall ’65 [VMI Board of Visitors incoming president], Waite Rawls III ’70, Colonel Kim Parker [VMI’s government relations officer], Steve Maconi [VMI Alumni Agencies chief executive officer], and Carolyn and me.” This sounds like a memorable event, Bill. Thanks to you and Sam for taking good care of VMI memorabilia.

I hope everyone enjoyed the news article about Bill’s father’s remarkable service in World War I. Guy Hence sent me the following note after he read it: “Muchisimas gracias!

My dad at 16 fought in the trenches in World War I. He lied about his age.”

Charlie Hayes and the rest of Doc Carroll’s boys – Bill Harshaw, Bill Keefe, Hull Negley, Dave Pitkethly, Jim Poteet and honorary Doc’s boy Gates Sykes – voted to admit Dick Pumphrey, the sculptor who designed and made the bust of Doc Carroll now on display in Maury-Brooke Hall, to the ranks of Doc’s boys. They sent him a certificate recognizing his “good looks, charming personality, high intellect and extraordinary artistic contribution to the biology department.” Dick expressed his

gratitude in this note, opening with the terms the boys had used in describing themselves: “Dear Rascals, Rapscallions, Rogues, Scoundrels and Miscreants, you have bestowed a great honor, including me among your ‘unholy

Class of 1958: Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 received the gift of a regimental flag from Bill Harshaw.

Class of 1958: Sam Witt and Bill Harshaw enjoyed a visit during the presentation of the flag.

65

Class Notes

Class of 1958: Sculptor Bill Pumphrey, who made the Doc Carroll bust in Maury-Brooke Hall, is now an official member of Doc’s boys. bunch’ of Doc’s boys! I cannot imagine a finer group of deviants to be a part of. One of the greatest privileges I’ve had is working with and meeting many of the boys in the process of creating Doc’s portrait and celebrating its installation at VMI. “It’s evident Doc was a good judge of character, ensuring all of the bunch remain together celebrating their common experiences at VMI, his lecture classes and labs (although I’m not sure he would have allowed me in his deli).

“My new certificate will hang in my studio where friends and clients can see it. My wife and I know a few VMI alumni of more recent generations who are members of our local medical community who also had Doc as a professor; I will brag about this certificate to them!

“Best wishes for the remainder of the summer, knowing how proud Doc would have been of all of your accomplishments. Respectfully, Dick Pumphrey.”

Brother Rat Earl Talley died in Arab, Alabama, June 3. While I emailed his obituary at the time, I want to note some of its highlights in a method that may last longer. Earl was born in Richmond and graduated from John Marshall High School with our BRs Bill Corr, Bill Holt, Bob Jenkins and Bill Russos. Earl received Master of Science degree in aeronautical engineering from Georgia Tech and served in the Army in Germany, Vietnam and Korea, ending his military career at Redstone Arsenal and his aerospace engineer career at Teledyne Brown, both in Huntsville, Alabama. In 1995, Earl completed the entire 2,179 miles of the Appalachian Trail, walking from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Katahdin Stream Falls,

66

Maine. He acquired the trail name of “ET,” which he was proud of, and chronicled his entire journey for his hometown newspaper. Earl enjoyed many Civil War seminars at VMI and was an avid reader who shared his love of reading with kindergarten and first-grade students for many years. Our sympathies go out to his wife, Joan, and the family.

After sharing Earl’s obituary via email, I heard from Annemarie, wife of BR Wes Roberts. She said, “Thanks so much for sharing Earl’s obituary with me. He and I commiserated on hiking the Appalachian Trail, but I was only a ‘weekend warrior.’ He was the champ.

“The numbers of deceased BRs is rising too rapidly. Get the guys to take their vitamins and keep moving!” Thanks for the prompt, Annemarie. I would add: And take a yoga class where breathing is important – and necessary!

When we spoke on the phone, Annemarie told me that she is selling their beautiful property near Fairfield, Virginia, where we enjoyed a delightful reunion event some years ago. Selling should not be a problem, Annemarie; it’s dealing with the contents that will be the ordeal. We don’t envy you.

That’s it for this time, BRs. Cheers, Lee

1959

Shep Shepard

Harry and Ann Ray really wanted to make it to the Florida group mini reunion and Vietnam memorial ceremony in Punta Gorda, Florida, last April but circumstances precluded it. They were, however, both there in spirit. They are as proud as they can be about their two oldest twin grandsons. Austin Ray was on the U.S. Champion National Gymnastics Team and is now attending Stanford University. Tyler Ray was a Georgia scholar athlete and now at MIT. Harry is certain that they did not get their smart genes from his side of the family. Harry and Ann joined their diabetic son, Travis, in Atlanta to attend the Juvenile Diabetes Gala in an effort to help raise funds for the cause. It lasted a little over four hours, and they raised $1.8 million. Harry said it was a

gratifying experience that he would do again in a heartbeat. The majority of Harry and Ann’s time these days is spent as members of the Carolinas Freedom Foundation Governance Board raising funds for the leadership and character education programs of high school students and honoring veterans. Harry helped started the program when he was the director of JROTC 15 years ago and it has grown ever since. Ann has been at his side the whole time; a great supporter and volunteer throughout the years. Thanks to both of you for your service.

I got a nice note from Bill Kessler thanking me for the kind words I wrote about him in the class notes a few issues back. Bill said that transporting their blind and very disabled classmate to their 55th Reunion wasn’t easy, but a very determined Bill Wray ’63 succeeded in getting his classmate to his first reunion. There is an epilogue to the story. Before leaving California, he had an appointment with the eye surgery doctors at the Long Beach Veterans Affairs clinic. They offered hope that surgery could restore some of his sight. He has been scheduled for an appointment in Richmond, Virginia. Truly the VMI spirit in action.

I also got a note from Jeff Galon ’92, Zeke Galon’s son. Zeke, as you know, died in 1978. I have kept in touch with Jeff for many years, and he and his wife are pretty fed up with California and are eager to join the mass exodus out of the state. They are headed for the great state of Florida. In fact, Jeff has found employment with Range Generation Next at Patrick Air Force Base as their principal systems engineer in their test and evaluation group. Start date was Oct. 1. Patrick Air Force Base is just across the river from where Ann and I live. Jeff intends to bring his parents, Joe and Paula Dias, who currently live in New Mexico, along with him. Joe and Paula, Zeke’s widow, have always been an integral part of the Class of 1959, and it will be nice to have them as neighbors. Jeff’s son, Ezequiel, has a VMI provisional appointment with the class of 2032, so we might see a third generation Galon heading for the Institute. Looking forward to having the Galon family as neighbors.

Judy MacWillie plans to move to a smaller patio home on the other side of Killeen, Texas. She is anxious and excited about the move but is a little scared, as well. However, with the help of close family and friends, it will be done.

Her new digs will be close to Stillhouse Hollow Lake, which makes it easy to get everywhere she

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes wants to go from there. Judy has been spending Dom Underwood checked in from Gaines- Institute and see the Doc Carroll sculpture. time at her daughter’s Richland Chambers Lake ville, Florida, thanking me for the remembering Bill and Yvonne Traylor shared some exciting home, where they enjoy family and Friday night his 81st birthday. Dom sent regards and hopes news: Their two grandchildren graduated this happy hour. Judy became a great-grandmother all is as well with everyone as it is with him. spring. Andrew graduated from the University for the first time in June. It was a long time comof Virginia and enjoyed performing in his own Once again, John Reed organized and led a ing but was exciting. All is well with Judy and 14-member medical team to Haiti, where they band for the past three years. He is now tourher dog, Maximillian MacGlashan MacWillie, ing Asia with several of his fraternity brothers set up makeshift clinics in three remote mounand she sends her best to all brother and sister tain locations in south Haiti. They served more before returning home to prepare for the LSAT. rats.

Buckley graduated from The Highland Tex Carr and Emily Hanzok just reSchool in Warrenton, Virginia, where turned from a 12-day small ship ocean she finished with high academic honors cruise to the British Isles. They hugged and a great record in field hockey and soccer. She is preparing to attend Unian Irish standing stone, saw Stonehenge and had drinks in Belfast, Dublin, the versity of the South in Sewannee, TenOrkneys, Isle of Skye and London. Tex nessee, this fall. Bill continues to enjoy and Emily have some exciting news: Bekeeping up with his brother rats, including Dave Goode and George O’Neill, fore they need wheelchairs or respirators, and was surprised with a wonderful they have decided to get married and set the date for Aug. 25, 2018, in Pennsylvavisit from John Eggleston, Mort and nia. Ron and Mary Alice Marley invited Class of 1959: The VMI contingent passing through the Audrey Eggleston’s son, who was in Panama Canal aboard the Oceania cruise ship Insignia Ann and me to join them in Jacksonville were, from left, Ralph and Janice Rae Lawson, Shep and Florida with his family.

Skip and Linda White recently celto celebrate Tex and Emily’s impending Ann Shepard, Pete McWane, and Jean and Mel Anderson. marriage. Since we were not able to atebrated their 57th wedding anniversary tend the wedding, they thought it would while enjoying their annual family vabe nice to take them out to lunch. They cation at the beach. Skip feels old age slowly creeping up on him. chose the Sandollar, a beautiful restaurant located on the St. Johns River. We Following the very successful Vietspent a lovely afternoon enjoying the nam memorial ceremony we had last April in Punta Gorda during our Florcompany and watching the boats go by on the river. We wish them much happiida group mini reunion, Lee Southard ness as they begin their new life together. thought it would be a good idea to Rusty Loth moved to Memphis to be leave a lasting memory at the Vietnam Wall. He enlisted me, and we decided near his daughter and is enjoying his to purchase bricks in memory of our new digs at Trezevant Manor. He says two brother rats killed in Vietnam, Jim he should have made the move years Masotti and Doug Wauchope. I sugago; it’s like living on a cruise ship that Class of 1959: The Marleys and the Shepards took the never leaves port. Getting around Mem- newly engaged couple, Tex Carr and Emily Hanzok, out gested we give all our BRs an opporphis is not bad, although it is a trip back to lunch to celebrate at the Sandollar Restaurant in Jack- tunity to participate, and the response was overwhelming to the extent that we and forth between The Rhodes College, sonville, Florida. where his daughter teaches, and Univerare still trying to figure out what to do sity of Memphis, where Rusty plans on catching than 400 people, providing eye care, primary with all of the money. We will have two bricks some great football games. No VMI alumni at care and preventive dental care for children. each bearing their name, rank and service and the words from the New Market roll call of the the home but a couple of fellow inmates are John appropriately celebrated his 80th birthWashington and Lee University Minks, and day in Haiti. Anne has been promoted and is dead, “Died on the field of honor.” Kudos to Lee for coming up with a plan that will be a both are good guys. now the chief deputy commonwealth attorSince Carl and Phyllis Kasko moved to Pennney for Staunton. Jack is into scouting and lasting memory to our BRs. The chairman of our upcoming 60th Resylvania, they no longer greet you with, “Hello just completed a 28-mile backpacking trip. y’all.” It’s now, “Hey, youse guys.” Carl and He will soon be an Eagle Scout and a few union, Billy Kornegay, summoned the memmonths ago got his first degree black belt in bers of the Reunion Committee to Lexington Phyllis have been up to their ears resettling, unpacking and shopping. They do have a great karate. Needless to say, John is a very proud for a kick-off meeting. The committee is comdeal of help, especially from their daughter husband and dad! He plans to attend the re- posed of Bill and Sue Kornegay, Shep and Ann who lives nearby. Carl says, “Hope all is well union next year and will do his best to enlist Shepard, Spence and Beverly Tucker, Harry and with youse guys out there.” his brother, Jim. Both are anxious to get to the Terri MacGregor, Buzz and Virginia Nowlin,

2018-Issue 4

67

Class Notes

Class of 1959: Jim McFalls spending some quality time with his grandchildren.

Charlie and Karen Orrison, and Dick and Barbara Trandel. Billy is probably the most experienced reunion chairman in the history of VMI, having served in that position for the past 30 years. As a result, Billy had things pretty well organized with only a few loose ends left to be tied together. We will be staying at the Best Western, as we did at our last reunion. Better and more elegant hotels were available, but after Billy checked them out and queried the preceding class reunion chairman, he strongly recommended the Best Western. Other facilities were not friendly to 80 year olds with lots of stairs to traverse to get to the hospitality room. The reunion will began Sunday, April 14, 2019, with registration and a reception in the hospitality room. Tentatively, Monday will be golf for those who wish to play, shooting at the range, lunch at Crozet Hall and an evening at Marshall Hall for all reunion classes. The guest speaker will be Gen. Peay ’62. Tuesday, we will have a memorial service for those BRs who have died, a lunch at Karen and Charlie’s house as we did at the last reunion, class picture, a parade and the Class of ’59 dinner in Moody Hall. Wednesday, we check out. Spence has been tasked with putting together a class history, so if you have something you think might help him put the history together, please send it to him or me.

68

Ann and I recently returned from a two-week cruise that included a transit of the Panama Canal. We joined Mel and Jean Anderson, Ralph and Janice Rae Lawson, and Pete McWane in Los Angeles, where we boarded the Oceania cruise ship Insignia, sailed to San Diego and continued down the Baja Peninsula to Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Puntarenas, Costa Rica. We transited the 54 miles of the Panama Canal going from Panama City on the Pacific side to Colon on the Atlantic side.

We passed through the Miraflores Locks, the Pedro Miguel Locks through the Culebra Cut into Lake Gatun and out the other side through the Gatun Locks into the Atlantic Ocean.

From the canal, we headed for Cartagena, Colombia; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; and finished our cruise in Miami, Florida. We did not transit through the new Cocoli Locks of the expanded canal on the Pacific side or the Agua Clara Locks on the Atlantic side, but we did get the opportunity to see them, and they are huge. The volcano eruption in Guatemala limited our touring options, and the unrest in Nicaragua due to the elections caused us to bypass, but those were the only setbacks we had.

The highlight of the transit for Ann and me was that we located the home we lived in while stationed there in the ’80s. The highlight of the cruise was being with BRs and their spouses.

We had a wonderful time – ate and drank too much but enjoyed two weeks with great friends.

Jack and Joy Angolia are in traveling mode as they prepare to cross another adventure off their bucket list. They planned to leave in August for a trip that has been on Jack’s list for years. It will be a trip that will take them to Edinburgh, Scotland, for the annual tattoo, followed by a Rhine River cruise in December to hit the Christmas markets. As far as books are concerned, Jack is currently writing his last book, and it will be a complete departure from anything he has published before. Health wise, Jack and Joy are doing well. Both have just undergone successful eye operations resulting in no longer needing reading glasses.

Lloyd and Bette Thacker spent a couple of days at the Boars Head Inn in Charlottesville, Virginia, with close friends where they celebrated birthdays, played golf and enjoyed evenings on the town. When home in Williamsburg, you can find Lloyd on the Ford’s Colony

Golf Courses. Lately, those nine hole scores in the low 40s motivate him to keep coming back for more, so he is on the links four to five times a week. Not bad for an 82-year-old man.

Bob and Lois Hobson have had a busy summer so far, but there was more to come. They planned a family reunion in August when all 75 of them planned to meet at Bear Lake, located near the Idaho-Utah border, for a family reunion. Bob said it was tough trying to find a facility big enough to house 20 families.

Among the 75 are 18 great-grandchildren under the age of five. Bob and Lois will let us know if they survive the week together.

Mike Vargosko is very pleased with himself having lost 40 pounds. He is now 3 pounds more than when we graduated. Mike looks in the mirror, and although the weight may be the same, the 81-year-old body doesn’t look anything like that 22-year-old body. Mike and Julie were looking forward to a visit from John and Chris Patane.

Mike and John were to play in the member-guest tournament at his country club. Unfortunately, health problems got in the way, and they had to cancel both golf and the visit. Hopefully, they will be able to get together before the close of the golf season. Mike has been a Cardinals fan since he was 9 years old, so he and Julie plan to go to St. Louis in August to see the Cardinals play the Washington Nationals. Their son, Michael, will fly in from Poland and join them. If they survive the trip, Don and Carol Messner plan to come visit them.

Max and Lee Ann Blanchard have reached that milestone in life we all yearn for and are happy as they can be with their very first great-grandchild, a girl, who was born in July.

John Martin had a fainting spell not long ago similar to the one he had 18 months ago when a cardiac monitor was implanted in his chest. The implant did its job and allowed the doctors to diagnose an electrical issue. John now has joined the pacemaker club, and it seems to be correcting the problem. To celebrate, John and Teddi took a 10-day trans-Canadian trip, traveling through the Canadian Rockies and visiting the little town of Banff located on beautiful Lake Louise. They traveled with friends, ending their journey at their home in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Teddi did yeoman service and did all the heavy lifting and made sure that John behaved himself. Life is good for them as John awaits the word from his doctors that it is A-OK to swing a golf club once again.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Jim and Bet Vermillion see Ralph and Janice the stops planned by their grandson. They reRae Lawson frequently. They had lunch with turned via Troy, New York, where they visited them recently where Ralph and J.R. shared their Laura Masotti. Laura is doing well following pictures of our trip through the Panama Canal. a short illness last year. From there, they visJim commented that, for a bunch of old fogies, ited Poughkeepsie, New York, to attend Sallie’s we looked pretty good.

55th college reunion at Vassar where she and Agnes and Charlie Carter are staying close to Nowell met in 1960. Boy, does times fly by! home these days since Charlie has pretty serious John and Patsy Van Kesteren have had a setCOPD. He has a golf cart they named “Go Cart- back in their solar project. The 80 megawatt soer” (Big Red, of course) which enables him to ven- lar project, which was reduced to 20 MW, has ture out of doors. They feel so blessed to have such encountered a major snag. PJM, the grid operaa beautiful view of their creek and the Chesapeake tor for Virginia, would only let them connect if Bay. Wildlife and boaters sure beat watching TV. they agreed to pay for upgrading the transmisAgnes and Charlie hope to make it back to Lex- sion lines between their farm and the substation, ington for the 60th Reunion, and maybe with the which would double the cost. They have done Class of 1959: Harry and Ann Ray with help of the three Inge sons – ’89, ’91 and ’96 – they all the preliminary work, including engineering, their twin grandsons – Harry, left, and environmental and archeological surveying, and will be able to make it. Let’s hope so.

Tyler, far right – at their high school Larry Wood recently received a package from have the government-issued conditional use pergraduation in Atlanta.

Jim McFalls. His first reaction was, “Oh no, not mit. For now, however, any expectation of this another Hokie shirt,” and sure enough, it was. project becoming reality is very doubtful. It’s too enjoyed the article. It was especially gratifying to hear from the children who told how much Nancy said to give it to her, since she has many bad, since the PJM grid has barely 3 percent of their fathers enjoyed it as they read the article classmates who graduated from VPI. Nancy its power generated by renewable energy. graduated from Warwick High School in NewJim McFalls was kind enough to send a about the old battalion.

Recently Penn and Betty Whitescarver enport News, Virginia, where our Brother Rats warmup jacket to our granddaughter, Megan. It’s joyed the beauty of Yellowstone National Park the same type of jacket his granddaughter and Sam Adams and Kent Decker were her classher basketball team wear. Thank you, Jim, for and the Grand Tetons. Penn recommends if mates. Larry returned the favor to Jim by sendbeing so thoughtful. Jim is enjoying life spoiling you go take loads of money. Flights for the rich ing him a VMI ’59 patch. Larry was also kind enough to send a patch to our granddaughter, his grandchildren. In the picture he sent, he is not and famous far exceed the number of low cost sure if the big bear represents Coach McKenna airlines into the Jackson Hole airport.

Megan. Thanks, Larry.

I got a nice note from Howard Sprinkle reor Rusty Loth.

Buzz Nowlin has become somewhat of a reBrad Willard has received considerable fa- garding Lee Southard’s book and the comcluse due to his loss of hearing; however, he was scheduled for a cochlear ear implant in vorable feedback from the article “Paving the ments he made concerning his book. Howard late August that should correct the situation. Way for America’s Fighting Forces” he wrote and Cinthia now live in Wintergreen Resort, Buzz and Virginia are still in Hot Springs and for the Vietnam magazine. Much of the feed- located in the Blue Ridge Mountains 50 miles from Lexington. Every day, they wake up to see welcome anyone who might be in the vicinity. back, to Brad’s delight, came from family Noland and Mary Pipes send their best from members sharing with Brad how much they the mountains which he knows were formed during the first year of the Noahic Memphis. Noland’s health continflood. When Howard saw his niece ues to be a problem and a mystery to captivated by Harry Potter, he decidhis physicians. He has to be drained ed to write a book which he called, of excess lymphatic fluid about “Jason,” for children and teens in once a month, and unfortunately, opposition to the Potter witchcraft the doctors cannot find the source stories. Howard was a civil engineer, of the leak. Noland keeps on using so he asks all English majors for forthe walking stick we received at our giveness. He is working on “Jason, 50th Reunion. It has become quite 2nd Adventure.” If just one person a conversation piece and favorably reads the books and get a picture of noticed almost everywhere he goes. the creator, that will be Howard’s.

Nowell and Sallie Loop recently visited Munich, Germany, where Class of 1959: The 60th Reunion committee met in Lexington Well done, my friend.

Keep those cards, emails and lettheir grandson was spending his ju- to plan the gala affair scheduled for April 14-17, 2019. From left, nior year of high school on a Rotary Spence Tucker, Shep and Ann Shepard, Harry and Terri Mac- ters coming in.

Gregor, Buzz Nowlin, Beverly Tucker, Charlie Orrison, Sue KoYours in the spirit, fellowship exchange program. Mu- rnegay, Dick Trandel and committee chairman Bill Kornegay.

Shep nich and Salzburg, Austria, were on

2018-Issue 4

69

Class Notes

1960

James A. Smith III

Greetings on this 2018 New Market Day from St. James Plantation, North Carolina. My last notes and photographs were just submitted. I received a long email from Willard “Chico” Gates May 15, catching us up with his past 55 years.

Chico wrote: “Dear Jimbo, I’m 80 years old and figured I would try to reconnect since I haven’t heard from any bro rats in the last 50 years. I went through Naval flight school in Pensacola, where I met and married my wife, Charlotte (who was a school teacher), and was assigned to a helo squadron in Lakehurst, New Jersey (where my father was a blimp crewman during World War II). I did that tour of duty and got straightened out with the Lord Jesus out in the middle of the south Atlantic while reading Billy Graham’s book, ‘Peace With God.’ After getting out of the Navy the following year, I went full time to Washington Bible College for a semester and then started teaching high school science for what I thought was a temporary job. Then, during my third year of teaching, the Lord called me and Charlotte to teach at The Children’s Haven of Morocco in 1967. It was a small missionary work near Azrou, Morocco, and they had their own private school for the children in residence. (It is still there in operation and located at 33°26’56.46”N, 5°10’6.42”W, if you want to look it up on Google Earth.) We wound up taking care of the educational needs of those Moroccan children (as well as for the MKs) for the

Class of 1960: G.G. Phillips held court with Jack Seamon, Peanuts Elliott, Ruth Smith, Frances Phillips and Jan Elliott while Henry Brown worked on his phone.

70

next 38 years. The Lord gave us a greenlight to retire in summer 2005, because He knew I needed heart bypass surgery, which I had in January 2006. My heart is only pumping at 50 percent ± efficiency, but I am still able to get around and take care of things; just a lot slower than 10 years ago. Charlotte and I have five great kids, and they have given us 15 grandchildren. Well, that’s a thumbnail sketch of my last 58 years. I trust the Lord has abundantly blessed you and yours as He has to our family. In Christ’s love, Chico ‘Bearo’ Gates.” Chico’s contact information: 187 S Edwards St. Newton, AL 36350, cgates000@twc. com. I don’t know who he roomed with, but I’m sure he would like to connect.

On Friday, May 18, Ruth and I had a surprise visit with Henry Shirley. He and Ginny had been at Sunset Beach, North Carolina, about 40 minutes away from us. We caught up since we were together at The Olde Mill Resort last year.

Henry looks and feels well “for a man his age.”

On May 24, John “Seagull” Coughlin had his big day. I spoke with John the day after his birthday. He related that his four children had a five-day celebration leading up to his day. On Memorial Day, May 25, we all remember, with love, admiration and gratitude those who made the ultimate sacrifice for us. We especially remember our Brother Rat “Eagle” Bayliss. Bob Clay’s son, Robert, dedicated a poppy in memory of Eagle through the USAA website. We also are grateful for those of our class who served with honor for our nation. God bless them all.

On June 2, I received the following from George Miller: “Just an update for everyone, our move is complete; we are Nevadans! New email: gpm34@outlook.com. New address: 616 Southridge Dr., Mesquite, NV 89027. New phone: 949636-0758. All is well! George and Judy.”

On June 3, Jim O’Dell celebrated his 80th birthday with a breakfast with two of his four daughters. While I only spoke to his wife, Suzie, I got an email from him with thanks for the birthday wishes. He also said he expected five more strokes now that he is 80 years old. No such luck, brother rat!

On June 12, I sent an email birthday wish to Tom Beavers when I couldn’t speak with him by phone. He responded with an email and is doing well.

On June 14, Ruth and I had dinner with Steve and Peggy Riethmiller ’63 at the Bistro on Main in Lexington. Steve dyked Andy Wise in our

room. We have remained good friends over the years. Steve went on to great accomplishments as he did graduate work in chemistry, obtaining his Ph.D. and teaching at VMI. He retired after his tenure as chairman of the chemistry department. We had a delightful evening!

From June 15-16, I attended a conference at VMI for class agents, chapter presidents and Alumni Association board members. We again were exposed to the current state of the Institute. The Corps consists of 1,700 cadets, 11 percent women. VMI is in the top 10 of small colleges. A letter forthcoming from me will be more informative. Simply put, VMI has never been better.

On June 18, I tried to speak with Gary Kramer on his birthday but was only able to leave a voicemail. Gary received an email birthday wish. Gary did send me an email that I’ve included in these notes. He wrote: “Sorry I did not get back to you sooner. Thank you for my birthday call. Hopefully, someone saying that ‘80 is the new 60’ is correct. I am trying to stay active by walking 18 holes of golf three and four times a week and volunteering for our hospice organization. We have been on a lot of cruises with our favorite cruise line, Regent. Our 12th cruise with them is planned for this October going from Miami to Honolulu. Additionally, four cruises on the Disney ships with our children and grandchildren. Dee and I will be shortly moving into a Lifecare complex and a brand-new apartment.

We will still have an extra bedroom for visitors.

Hope this brings you up to date and again thank you for the birthday wishes.” Thank you, Gary.

Sadly, our devoted Brother Rat Tommy Leary died June 20. His obituary follows: “William Thomas (Tom) Leary departed this life Wednesday, June 20, 2018, surrounded by his loving family. Born Dec. 29, 1937, in Portsmouth, Virginia, he graduated from St. Paul’s Catholic High School in 1956. He attended Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia, Class of 1960. He married Angela Charlene Lee, a native of Portsmouth, in 1963 where he resided until the age of 28 when they moved to Richmond to pursue his career in banking and finance. They moved to Hampton in 1985 and resided there until 2011, then moved to Gloucester, where they resided until his death. He spent 40 years working for various lending institutions, retiring from Bank of America in 1995. He opened the Automotive Finance Division of Chevy Chase

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes On July 31, I got an email from Ed Tolley, who Schaaf, responding to my request through Hap Bank working closely with many of the automobile dealers in southeast Virginia. In 1982, Miller for notes from you guys. Jim wrote: wrote: “As for me, I spent a couple of weeks in “Jimbo – Hap said you needed notes and pho- Pennsylvania at Nance’s brother’s place on the Tom retired from the Army Reserve as a master sergeant with 21 years of military service. tos. Not much happening since my birthday Loyalsock Creek near Hillsgrove, PennsylvaHe was a member of the Portsmouth Jaycees note. After much comparison and thinking, we nia, to do a couple rebuild/fixin’ up. Have been from 1958-66. He was a lifetime member of the have settled on the Galleria Woods Retirement pretty busy with my PE work and with son Tom Knights of Columbus, serving as grand knight Community in Birmingham near one of our ’90, who does all kinds of repairs/additions/ for the St. Edwards Council #6546, Richmond, children and youngest grandchild. We’re going whatever. No medical problems! Getting lazier.

Virginia, from 1982-83. Tom is survived by his through downsizing throes now for a move next Family (brothers and sisters) is shrinking – exwife of 55 years, Angela Lee Leary, former summer. I just went through a successful prostended family expanding. Tyler ’14 is getting Hampton City Councilwoman; their daughter, tate procedure for benign prostatic hyperplasia married Oct. 13 to a beautiful Texas girl. I have Catherine Estep, and her husband, Bill; and that was minimally invasive and a ‘mechanical nine great-grandchildren!” Thank you, Ed. granddaughters, Katie Shaw (Justin), Leigh fix’ (UroLift for anyone considering surgery for On July 31, I called Toot Barr for his birthClevenger (Mark Dandridge Jr.) and Jordan BPH after medication stops working). Attached day wish, but he was away. He wrote: “Jimbo, Estep. He is also survived by his sister, Mary photo is from my 80th birthday – two grandsons thanks for the call. Can’t believe how fast these L. Butler of Portsmouth, and a host of birthdays come around; however, I’m glad nieces and nephews. He was predeceased to celebrate them. As a former candidate by his parents, Alfred Clinton Leary and for governor of Texas said, ‘Lay back and Mary Teresa Hurst Leary. A celebration of enjoy it.’ Cecile and I were in Big Fork, life was held at Parklawn-Wood Funeral Montana, on a mini vacation. She has had Home 2551 N. Armistead Ave. Hampton, a bout with sepsis and was in the hospital VA 23666 Wednesday, June 27, 2018, from for three weeks and several weeks of re6 p.m. to 8 p.m. A funeral mass was held covery. Being the head nurse, cook, driver at St. Paul’s Catholic Church, 522 High St. and bottle washer, both of us needed a vaPortsmouth, VA 23704 Thursday, June 28, cation. Regrettably, we have our place in 2018, at 11 a.m. Interment followed at All West Texas for sale. The 6-7 hour drive is Saints Catholic Cemetery, 2701 Elm Ave. getting a little hard as the ‘mileage’ of the Portsmouth, VA 23705. A reception at the driver increases. Toot.” home of Mrs. Mary L. Butler at 4406 Gan- Class of 1960: Jimbo and Ruth Smith and Henry and On Aug. 1, I spoke with Dallas “Ed” Linda Brown with Cadet Grey Wolfe ’21 and Wolfe’s non Road Portsmouth, Virginia, followed date, Amanda Fox, at the Wilmington, North Caro- Smith on his 80th birthday. As many of you know, Ed is an accomplished woodworker. the services.” Bill and Suzanne Knowles, lina, rat send-off dinner.

When I spoke with him in the morning, he Bob and Lucy Clay, Howard and Susan had already completed two bowls. Check out his Moss, Mike Pitt and Betty Hudgins, Mike on the APC (Armored Personnel Carrier) with me. All my children chipped in and bought me beautiful work at www.edwardssmithfinewoodShoemaker and Jim Pittman attended the sera ticket to Tank World north of Atlanta that working.com. His health is good. He enjoys bevices. Tommy will be missed!

I spoke with John Olsen June 28 and gave included driving an old British APC around a ing able to do the things that give him so much him birthday wishes. John is a skeet shooter and muddy course and then crushing a car. I have a pleasure. He plans to celebrate his and his wife says he doesn’t hit as many as he used to. He neat T-shirt that says, ‘My Therapist is a Tank;’ Janet’s birthday, 70th, with children and grandit was fun! Thanks for all you do; I enjoy reading children in Asheville, North Carolina. I wished sounded well.

On July 6, I called Doc Mallory but only could the notes. Jim.” him many more birthdays and safe travels.

On July 23, I received an email from Joe Morabit speak to his wife, Dorcas, as Doc was celebratOn Aug. 11, I was able to catch up with Henry ing his birthday with a dinner with his daughter. after he and his son had just played in a father/son Shirley for his happy birthday call. He was well His wife conveyed his birthday wishes, and he golf tournament in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. and was going out to dinner with Ginnie to celJoe wrote: “Jimbo, another successful father/son ebrate. also got a birthday email.

On Aug. 12, the day of closing these notes On July 8, I spoke with Bob Clay early in the tournament for us. We got rained out one day, and morning. He got birthday wishes. He and Lucy it was cart path only the other two days. Ugh! We down, I spoke with Walt Witshard in Lake Oswere going to their daughter’s for a cookout to came in second place. Winners during one round wego, Oregon, to wish him a happy birthday. had a combined handicap of 16 and shot a 74 for Walt was getting ready to go to Seattle to the celebrate. a net of 58. Duh! We could not catch them. The Pacific Northwest chapter of their VMI Alumni On July 17, I called John Moore in Naples, Florida, to give him his birthday wish but only could round that got rained out, my son shot even par. Association. He is well.

I am closing down this edition of class notes. leave a voicemail message. I hope he is well as he Can’t do much about the elements, but we had a great time all in all. Hope all well with you and I continue to appreciate any communication I joins the ranks of his 80-year-old brother rats. looking forward to October. Joe.” have with you. I enjoy my birthday phone call I received an informative email from Jim

2018-Issue 4

71

Class Notes visits with you when you are there. We all need to continue to stay in touch, especially since the majority of us are octogenarians. Please remember to continue to support VMI as well as our legacy, Capt. Paul M. Bayliss 1960 Memorial Scholarship. Also remember to support Bolling Williamson’s book, as well. Keep those cards, letters and photos coming.

In the spirit, Jimbo

1961

Sal Vitale Jr.

The past three months have been very difficult for many of our brother rats, spouses and those of us who prayed and grieved for them.

I’ve been told that this is the time in our lives when we will experience losses and the time when we should consider keeping in contact more frequently with each other, because we never know when God will call. I have also learned that a single moment of misunderstanding can be so poisonous that it makes us forget in a minute the hundreds of lovable moments we’ve spent together during the past 60 years. So if you haven’t taken the time to call a brother rat or widow, do so now. I know you will be able to square away your issues, if any, and enjoy the conversation that is long overdue. Remember, you never know; it could be a last time.

Sue and I have had the opportunity to do a little traveling. We were in St. Louis for a few days but were not able to catch up with Tom Alvey (who was in Virginia), Bob Polk (who was in Florida) and John Miller was not available. We did enjoy our visit with our old friends from the neighborhood and a few from work. We especially enjoyed our dinner on the “Hill.” Unfortunately, by being in STL, we missed the party at Dick and Judy Youngblood’s house. The heavy rain did not stop those present from having a good time: Dennis and Jerry Curtis, Dick and Betty Jo Jarvis, Stu and Sylvia Woodcock, Rhett and Jan Clarkson, Oscar Mabry, Bill and Connie Nelms, Bootie Farleigh, Bill and Norma Phillips, and Russell Stone. Judy said they were

72

Class of 1961: Ed Fox, Sue Fox, Joyce Gibbings, Bill Gibbings and Sue Vitale at Fox’s Jus-Em-Tyme bed-and-breakfast in Greencastle, Pennsylvania, June 25, 2018.

Class of 1961: Brig. Gen. Christopher Eubank ’91 with his father, Gerry, at the change of responsibility ceremony for the U.S. Army Signal School, Fort Gordon, Georgia, July 9, 2018. During the ceremony, Gen. Eubank became the school’s commandant. glad they had elected to bag the riverside picnic and have it in their newly redecorated screened porch. Dick said the James River was in flood and very muddy. Dick and Judy, along with their daughter and her husband, participated in a fishing tournament in Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina, but I never heard how they made out.

Sue and I went to Washington, D.C., for a day to witness the deacon ordination of a friend of ours. It was a beautiful ceremony, and next year he will be ordained a priest. I did not attend the class agent conference in Lexington due to a conflict with a funeral. I hear it was a good event, and hopefully next year I can attend. The last week in June, we attended the Shuba pig roast, and while the weather was hot, the tents and fans helped. In any case, we had a great time. VMI was well represented at the pig roast, and we even had special guests, retired U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Francis C. Wilson and retired U.S. Navy Capt. Edward D. Heuer. Lou cooked two pigs, and we all agreed that they were the best tasting ever prepared.

Kenner Rice is still working at NIH and has no plans to retire. Sylvia Woodcock is now the president of her community association. Jim McFalls ’59 has slowed down, and his jokes are now just OK. (Smile.) Charlotte Harbach

is still selling top-end houses, and Dave can fit in his cadet uniform. Bill Fuzzy Fout is doing OK and plans to return to Arizona in October.

Instead of driving back to Virginia Beach after the pig roast, Sue and I, along with Bill and Joyce Gibbings, went to Fox’s Jus-Em-Tyme bed-and-breakfast. This is the first time we met Ed Fox’s wife, Sue, and we enjoyed our time together. The bed-and-breakfast is a restored old house with furnishings to die for. Sue Fox prepared breakfast for us, and it was outstanding. So if you’re in the vicinity of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, for skiing or visiting historic Mercersburg, you should consider staying at Fox’s Jus-Em-Tyme bed-and-breakfast. That was our last trip, and soon after we had to have our backyard restored after the placement of new bulkhead tieback followed by our kitchen floor sanded and a new wood floor for the dining room. I never knew dust could get into so many places, and I am very tired of vacuuming and washing and polishing stuff. The project looks good. An old neighbor in Severna Park, Maryland, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary and Sue and I traveled there to be part of the celebration. It was nice seeing people we hadn’t seen in 25 years. (Some looked older than we do).

On the way home, we stopped by to see Andy and Peggy Myruski in King George, Virginia.

I was amazed to see at least 100 boats anchored out in front of Myruski’s backyard with their hifis blasting. Andy and Peggy are doing well.

Don and Elaine Wilkinson attended a Gibbings Friday night beer and cookies. We talked

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Tom and Barbara Phlegar attended the An- which Brig. Gen. Robert L. Edmonson II reabout Elaine and Don’s travels in Europe, especially Austria. Elaine is very well versed dra Rieu concert in Fairfax, Virginia, and said linquished responsibility to Brig. Gen. Christoin the arts and music, and we had a wonder- it was outstanding. Tom also rode in the Great pher L. Eubank ’91 July 9. Congratulations to Allegheny Trail again with his grandson’s Brother Rat Gerry Eubank. ful conversation. Elaine recommended that we watch on YouTube the “FIFA World Cup scout trip. Tom was the senior citizen on the Jeri Wetsel enjoyed her trip to the GaláOpening Gala” concert in Moscow. It was an trail. While riding his bike in town, Tom was pagos Islands in Archipelago in Ecuador. The hit by a car and hurt his arm. The driver did not scenery was great, but the food on the ship was excellent performance. Irv Wells accompanied the Wilkinsons to the Gibbings’. Irv is doing stop. Finally, Tom reminded me that we need poor.

OK. Larry and Jerri Wetsel, along with Larry’s four more cabins to get two free berths and Lou and Pris Shuba spent a month in Gersplit the dollars with the attendees. Should you many visiting with the children and doing daughter, Susan, (from Montana) and her three teenagers also attended beer and cookies. Su- have any questions about the trip, Tom said he a little traveling. Larry Wetsel and Hugh san worked for me as a civil engineer years ago would be very happy to talk to you at 704-535- Gouldthorpe planned to be in Europe to visit World War I sites in September, and I in Falls Church, Virginia, and I enjoyed remi- 2154, 704-776-8166 or btphlegar@aol.com.

Harrison and Terry Fridley are doing well, look forward to hearing about the trip. niscing. Susan hopes her oldest son will attend as are Mitch and Jennifer Kot. Dave and CamVMI. My second semester rat roommate, Tom Gaylia Hudgins called to update me. She mie Bella love living on their 5-and-three- Whalen, was on his 75th day of skiing at his faenjoyed traveling with her granddaughter and fourths acres in the woods outside of Corval- vorite Lake Tahoe ski area when he had an enposted some good Facebook pictures when lis, Oregon. Even though Dave is turning 80 counter with a snowsnake, which caused him they were in Hot Springs National Park, Ar- in December (and looks like 60), they “card to fly and then execute a hard landing on the kansas. Gaylia is still in Wyoming and plans to him” for the senior discounts! Dave has been snow. A torn hamstring meant off the slopes for the remainder of the season. A snowsreturn in time to make the class boat trip with her cabin mate, Geraldine Nicholas. nake is not a fun-loving creature. It is a I heard from Anne Woodfin, who doesn’t well-disguised, white, elongated critter that get out much because she is in a wheelslithers along ski slopes and has a penchant for unsuspecting, innocent skiers in order chair and has a major hearing loss. Anne to knock them nigh high to a snowperson’s is getting new hearing aids and hopes it eye and create income for the local medical helps. Elfriede Winiker is enjoying watchcommunity. It was nice to learn that Lynn ing her grandchildren start high school and Hartford knows Tom, and they have talked college and looks forward to visiting them on the telephone and visited each other in in their new home in Charleston, South the past. Lynn lives on the western slope of Carolina. Marina Van Orden says things the Sierra Nevada without any snow, and are going well. Rina (George’s daughter) is Tom lives about 70 miles east in the mountrying to buy a house and has a new boyClass of 1961: Kenner and Nancy Rice in Gettys- tains that are blessed with snow. Lynn friend. burg, Pennsylvania, at the Shubas’ annual pig The recent Lynchburg flooding had me roast. Rice is still working at the National Institutes and Shirley Hartford are still looking for worried, and I called everyone there. Dot of Health. someone to take over the cat sanctuary and Templeton lives on the lake and had flash maybe purchase their house. flooding that took out landscaping and outdoor actively working on promoting “walkable Hony Tarrall is still working and hiking and furniture, a power outage, and lots of mud. neighborhoods” to decrease our car addiction is in great physical condition. George and Dot did not evacuate but did see docks, boats, but so far hasn’t had much of a response from Edna Henning said the snowbirds are gone, etc. lost. “It was scary and happened so fast.” all the sustainability committees – city, county so The Villages closes down and rolls up the Other than that, Dot is doing great and keeping or OSU. Cammie is busy doing therapy dog sidewalks at 9:00, at which time the Hennings very busy. Lou Kiger was having some renova- hospital visits with Ember, their flat coat reyawn at one another and go to bed. (Smile.)

The Hennings have been busy with family tions done to their home before the flood. They triever, spending time as a spiritual director (revisits in Florida and then a drive to Illinois to had little damage from the storm even though ally a companion for those on their journeys) over 6 inches of rain was recorded. “A little wa- and preaches as a licensed lay preacher at their George’s brother’s for a family wedding, and on the way stopping by to see son Ed. George ter in the basement and washing of my garden Episcopal Church, every month or so. rallied the family for a vacation on a lake on I was very impressed when I received an was all.” The Kigers visited Israel, which he said was outstanding, and then took a trip to invitation from Maj. Gen. John B. Morrison the Georgia/Tennessee border and had a great time.

Pennsylvania for a family reunion. I have not Jr., commanding general, United States Army Kent and Bert Modine are doing fine and Cyber Center of Excellence at Fort Gordon, to receive any call backs from Barbara Steadman or Janet Dance and do not know how the attend the change of responsibility ceremony were able to go to Springfield, Virginia, for for the United States Army Signal School in their granddaughter’s graduation. storm affected them.

2018-Issue 4

73

Class Notes

Class of 1961: At Lou and Pris Shuba’s annual pig roast in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, were, from left, seated, Ann Rishell, Bill Haeberlein, Carl Hirsch, Pris Shuba, Lou Shuba, Bill Gibbings, Sandra Fout and Sue Vitale. Standing: Don Rishell; Kitty Bush; Haeberlein’s sister, Barbara Haeberlein Hogan; Joe Bush ’65; Sylvia Haeberlein; Lou’s rat dyke, Bill Tornabene ’64; Becky Hirsch; Jim McFalls ’59; Lola Tornabene; Larry Wetsel; Ray Hanlein; Stu Woodcock; Lou’s dyke, Harry Shepherd ’58; Dana Shepherd; Spike Callander; Joyce Gibbings; Nancy Rice; Kenner Rice; Bill Fout; Ed Fox; Charlotte Harbach; Dave Harbach; and Sal Vitale. Sylvia Woodcock was present but not pictured.

Bill and Marcia Keech are enjoying their cottage at the Westminster Canterbury retirement community in Winchester, Virginia. The community is right off I-81, easy to get to and close to their family.

Lee Badgett has moved to an independent living place near his son and brother. Lee has a one bedroom, a den and a place to hang his clock. Lee’s new address is 1605 Elm Creek View, Apt. 311, Colorado Springs, CO 80907.

Dave and Edwina Thomas are doing fine.

They attended the Phillips 66 National Swim Meet in Irvine, California. This is the event where the top U.S. swimmers compete for places on our national teams for the next two years.

It is probably the biggest trials next to those for the Olympics that will take place in 2020. Dave said the heat in East Texas is oppressive.

John Wiggins completed a test of his endurance by participating in the 150th anniversary of the founding of Eastport, Maryland. The town of Eastport was established in 1868 and annexed into the city of Annapolis in 1952.

John started his challenge day with the happy hour at The Pier bar, followed by a concert by the Eastport Oyster Boys at the Annapolis Maritime Museum, then the Full Buck Moon Party (bucks begin to grow new antlers at this time) at the Boatyard Bar and Grill until the wee hours in the morning, and he, of course, survived.

Did you know that the VMI football program was recognized for improved academics by the Division I FCS Athletics Directors Association during the recent convention held in Washington,

74

D.C., in late June? The Keydets were awarded with a plaque for having the most improved Academic Progress Rate score in the Southern Conference.

Bob Burks said Warren Copenhaver has initiated a monthly breakfast club for all VMI ’60s classes, and the first breakfast was well attended.

Lots of folks are having all types of medical challenges; as for myself, I am now doing great. Redneck Robert Coltrane survived the surgeon’s knife once again! Bob had a total left shoulder joint replacement with stainless steel parts. It has been a very painful experience.

Bob developed a lot of floaters in his eyes to the point where he could not see words on a page.

Eye drops made the floaters shrink, so at least he can read and see bears on the porch. The real good news is his cancer remains in remission, and Loretta still makes the best apple pies. Ben Birindelli is fine except for really bad eyesight as a result of glaucoma and missed the Shuba pig roast. Ray Hanlein is doing well with his knee replacement. Unfortunately Ray cannot stomp the grapes needed to make his famous red wines we have enjoyed. Bob Burks is still having leg circulation problems. He may need some stents in his artery and veins.

Barry Orndorff was able to find out what happened to R.E.L. Huddle. Apparently the autopsy showed that Bob’s death was due to the wreck and not to a heart attack or stroke or other natural cause. Barry heard that his body was frozen and had to be cut out of the wreckage.

Paul Johnston has a balance problem due to

a fall while skiing a few years ago and recently injured his piriformis. No more skiing!

Debbie Johnston was in hospital for a few days with oxygen deficiency, and she needs lung therapy as well as knee replacement and maybe a shoulder too. Paul is blessed to have all their children and grandchildren around them.

Keep their 19-year-old grandson who had brain surgery several years ago in your prayers. The grandson had a cyst removal, but behind the cyst are inoperable tumors. The University of North Carolina doctors found a chemo that is holding the tumors in check until God sends a miracle. John “J.C.” Tharrington is recovering from shoulder surgery, and is doing OK. Bill Haeberlein said, “After second retirement, life has not gone as well as I had hoped. Doctors are driving me crazy. Other than that, life’s good.” I hear Bill may join the “heart club.” Please keep Bill Gibbings, Dianne Lynch, Charlotte Harbach, Charlie Fuller, Ken Legum and Charlie Stevenson in your prayers.

As I mentioned, this has been a sad quarter.

We lost four wives and two brother rats. May they all rest in peace.

Sister Rat Patricia May Gillian Williamson died May 30, 2018, of a heart attack. Pat was in the hospital for her COPD and had just finished a telephone conversation with Robert when she passed peacefully. Pat was always a gracious host, and we especially enjoyed the spirited conversations we had with her. Pat had a big heart. When I was in the hospital and having a terrible time trying to survive, Pat brought me her book called, “When Jesus Calls.” It helped me get through those days, and I still read it every day. Do you remember all the Williamson backyard tailgates before the football games at the Old Dominion University site? Their house was always open to us. Both Pat and Robert were boaters, and Pat especially enjoyed her times at sea. In the 80s and 90s, Sue and I spent many hours rafted up with Williamson and Gibbings and chuckled when Pat and Robert had to row to shore at 6 a.m. so Pat’s dogs could go to the potty. After the funeral, Robert spent some time with his sons and families in New York and the Outer Banks. Pat had many friends, and the celebration of her life at the Old Donation Episcopal Church was very well attended by Ken Legum, Garland Payne, Allison Drescher, Ben Lynch, Irv Wells, Dick Stone, Sue Patrick, Bill and Joyce Gibbings,

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes was a fighter, but the cancer finally overDavid Gibbings ’88, Willard and Pat came her. I talked to Carole several times, Hoskins, Dave and Charlotte Harbach, and she was pleased that she outlived the Spike and Mary Callander, Ray and Sally Hanlein, Ashby and Sandra Taylor, doctor’s estimate of her remaining days Mitch and Jennifer Kot, Larry and Joann on this earth. Carole and Jim were the Respess, Jim and Frankie Ring, Sue and owners of Lexington Building Supply Sal Vitale, Larry and Jeri Wetsel, and Stu for 33 years. I will miss the chats I had and Sylvia Woodcock. with Brother Rat Jim and Carole at the Sister Rat Betsey Badgett died June 24, lumber yard. Carole was chairwoman for 2018, in her home in Colorado from canour 10th Reunion, and I remember it was during this time she learned that Jim was cer. Hony and Marilynne Tarrall attended alive and a prisoner of war. Carole volthe memorial service for Betsey Badgett.

Hony said it was good to be able to spend Class of 1961: At a spring picnic at Dick and Judy Young- unteered to work on every class reunion some time with Lee and both families. blood’s house in Richmond, Virginia, May 19, 2018, were, thru our 55th. The church service was at from left, seated, Dennis Curtis, Judy Youngblood, ConBetsey had a rough time and as we know the Manly Memorial Baptist Church and nie Nelms, Oscar Mabry and Norma Phillips. Standing: cancer is tough. Lee has relocated to Colo- Jerry Curtis, Bootie Farleigh, Russell Stone, Bill Nelms, Stu burial in the Stonewall Jackson Cemetery with Jim. Their plot is a few aisles away rado Springs and will not return to Flori- Woodcock, Sylvia Woodcock, Bill Phillips and Dick Jarvis. from the Vitale plot. Lexington lost two da. I met Betsey in the early to middle 70s under the barracks in the luggage storage area.” wonderful residents and our class a brother rat. and liked her. When Lee was the dean at VMI and Bob has never used email, was not “strong,” and This has been a difficult time for the families of the Gibbingses, Williamsons and the Vitales attended football games, Betsey was always there to he and Arlene didn’t try to travel to reunions. Ar- the deceased and the class. Grieving takes time, and there is no one best way to grieve. God bless make sure that we had “our spot” staked out on lene predeceased Bob three weeks earlier.

Sister Rat Virginia McCandlish Puller Dabney the USA, VMI, and all our brother rats, widows the Parade Ground and brother rats, spouses and died June 29, 2018, at Westminster Canterbury and families. Let’s hear from you! children had use of the Badgett “facilities.” SevLynchburg. As the daughter of the late Lt. Gen. eral times, Sue and I were Badgett houseguests, and we were always treated royally. Betsey was Lewis Burwell “Chesty” Puller ’921, Virginia had fun to be with, had a wonderful laugh and, most an exciting time growing up and lived in China, importantly, made sure Lee was always heading in Hawaii, San Diego, New Orleans and Camp Monty Williams Lejeune, to mention a few. Virginia graduated the right direction. She is missed.

Brother Rat Robert “Bob” Leigh Copeland Jr. from Smith College, married BR Bill Dabney Jerry Burnett and for the next 50 years held her family together died June 25, 2018. His sense of humor was infectious; his dedication, steadfast; his determination, and worked tirelessly as a mother, military wife, resolute. He found great joy in his family, church teacher and community volunteer. As reported to family and the many close friends he made you last year, Sue and I, along with Lou and Jane Kiger, had lunch with the four widows in Lynchthroughout his journey. Battle Haslam roomed with Bob all four years, and as you may recall, burg and especially enjoyed the story of how Bill Bob was regimental S3 until right after Christmas and Virginia came together. Lou and Jane Kiger Here’s hoping that all survived all the unusufurlough when he found out he had cancer of the attended the funeral service. Lou had a phone call from Dr. Dabney, who will let us know ally hot and wet weather that we experienced thyroid. He had surgery and radiation and graduated with us in June. Bob had complications from when there will be a service for Virginia Dabney over the summer. at Christ Church Parish Episcopal, Saluda, VA Bill Fisher and Donna left for Florida in Janthe radiation several years later and had to have 23149 (804) 758-2006. uary 2018. They went to Key West for a week carotid surgery. Bob enjoyed a long, successful Brother Rat Larry M. Cook died July 12, 2018. then to Fort Myers Beach for four weeks. Upon career working for Brunswick Corporation, ImThere was a graveside service at Parklawn Memoperial Chemical Industries and A.O. Smith at loleaving, they made a two-day stopover in Sun rial Park in Hampton, Virginia. Joe Lisiecki recations across Virginia, Michigan, Florida, MinCity Center before traveling to the Curtis Hotel nesota, Kansas and Arkansas. Barry Orndorff members Larry Cook as a nice guy who was easy in The Villages for a planned four- to five-day worked with Bob for about 12 years at Brunswick to talk to. Larry was a civil engineer, Company C visit. The day before they were to leave, Donna rat and graduated with the class. There was very ended up in the emergency room. Tony Curtis Defense Division in Marion and DeLand, Florida. Barry said, “We were both on the team that little information available for Larry. Of the eight and Judy hosted them for another week before developed and produced the current camouflage brother rats who matriculated from Hampton, we they headed home to Ashland, Kentucky, arnetting. We traveled together a lot and, of course, have now lost two. riving March 3. Donna is fine now. In April, Sister Rat Carole Wright Berger died July 13, they left for Europe going through Spain to the talked about VMI days. I still remember his tales about happy hour Wednesday afternoons up 2018, in Lexington, Virginia, due to cancer. Carole Czech Republic where Donna’s brother joined

1962

2018-Issue 4

75

Class Notes them for the first two weeks of their travels.

Five days in Prague were highlighted by attendance at Verdi’s Requiem at St. Vitus Cathedral. They took the overnight sleeper train to Poland and spent five days in Krakow with a one-day side trip to Auschwitz, which was a sobering experience, as could be imagined.

They crossed Slovakia headed for four days in Hungary. The Budapest visit included a dinner cruise on the Danube. They departed Budapest, and Donna’s brother, for six days in Vienna, Austria. The Kunsthistoriches Museum in Vienna is one of the world’s gems. Because they stayed in Airbnb, the only hotel they went into was the Sacher Hotel in Vienna for their famous Sacher Torte. Somewhat rested in Vienna, they headed for four days in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Not content to slow their pace while there, they took a day trip by bus to Trieste, Italy, on the Adriatic Sea. Eventually back on the train headed to Zagreb, Croatia, for three days where they clocked more miles by shank’s mare. Finally, they headed through England to the good old USA arriving in Ashland in May. They traveled by plane, train, bus, tram, trolley, trolley bus, Metro, taxi, Uber and subway.

While touring churches, cathedrals, museums, government buildings, historical sites, old towns, markets, famous bridges, etc., they ate fabulous meals emphasizing local fare when they cook in our own kitchens. He reports the transportation systems in Central and Eastern Europe are modern, comfortable and fast (and they have bargain fares). They have traveled with bus tour groups over the years. You see a lot, avoid any real planning, limit your freedom and wear yourself out. This was their second personally-planned long trip in Europe. They like setting their own pace, which now is not that fast. They were out of town for 83 days of 135 days from New Year’s Day to New Market Day. He was late getting their garden planted.

In May, Ware Smith, Gordon White and Bill Barnett ’50B were on the tennis courts at Atlantic Beach, North Carolina.

Art and Sallie Swisher live on Tierra Verde, a barrier island just south of Saint Petersburg, Florida. Sallie is a cancer survivor but has a compromised immune system, so they stay close to her doctors. He is doing OK with just the average aches and problems that come with old age.

Joe Bateman reports that he and Cyndy recently sold their vacation home of 34 years

76

in Harwich on Cape Cod, where they created tons of memories through their relationship with the Cape Cod summer baseball league, the premier summer college baseball league in the country. Truly a fantastic opportunity to influence players from all over the country.

Joe retired from junior college baseball in 2014 and thoroughly enjoyed working with the local Babe Ruth 13- to 15-year-olds. They plan to travel and even increase their trips to Dallas where their children and family live in University Park. His son-in-law has moved from F15s and is now training for the B-1 in Abilene, Texas. Both his daughter, Rebecca, and her husband, U.S. Air Force Maj. Kevin Gibbs, are graduates of Texas A&M. Darden and Jackie Nelms are well and will shortly be celebrating their 56th wedding anniversary. They enjoy their quiet life near their children and grandchildren.

Buck and Louise Bradley recently spent a week in Martha’s Vineyard with two of his University of Virginia buddies and their wives.

They were taking a trip to Costa Rica in late July with family.

Bobby Howard and Katie joined their son, Harrison, and his family at The Homestead in June. They all had a ball, and the weather was perfect. They met some nice folks from Lynchburg who had graduated from UVa in ’62. Bobby asked if they knew Buck Bradley and told them that he was one of his roommates at VMI. Their first comment was, “How did you live through rooming with Buck?” Of course, they all knew Buck and Louise. They were Holly and Mosby Perrow, Leigh and Billy Giles, and Sallie and Ted Craddock. Later, he also ran into Ware and Belle Smith, who were visiting a tennis friend. He says it sure was a pleasure getting back to Virginia and especially seeing so many good friends.

Ran Hamner went to the Keydet Club Leadership Outing in early June. What a great time!

He was disappointed to be the only ’62 member in the golf outing. Buck Bradley, John Traynham and Joe Weakley were nowhere to be found. At least Joe had a good excuse. Ran had to play with a bunch of guys from the Class of ’69. They were way too young to handle the pressure of PGA golf. At least Ran won the senior long drive contest (note they did not announce the distance). On Friday evening, Ran and Carolyn Worrell attended the wonderful

Class of 1962: Rosser and Kate Bobbitt in Brussels with son Max and his wife, Kasia. dinner and program. Carolyn had Ran drive her new (19?) Jag convertible. It was about two blocks long and 3 feet high. Ran had to lay on the ground and inch over to get in the driver’s seat. They arrived at Moody Hall to great fanfare. Carolyn directed Ran to park illegally in front, as no one would notice. Yeah! Right!

The Jag didn’t get towed, but only because no one could believe it was real. The Keydet Club put on a great program. One of the highlights was Bobby Ross’ story about playing for McKenna “back in the day.” Hilarious! Ran wears his VMI T-shirt in the gym regularly and meets all kinds of VMI connections. That didn’t happen in Wisconsin.

Joe Weakley had quite an ordeal with a heart catheterization due to a leaking mitral valve in his heart. He went in May 7 for the test and had had a violent reaction to the dye that was used, which caused him to be resuscitated five times.

He was on a ventilator for nine days, in intensive care 12 days and remained in the hospital with rehab until June 1. He is glad to be home and is still recovering. He has begun hitting the links, swinging very gently to be sure.

Ron Wagner reports that Cammy has just completed her cataract surgery and has the eyes of a 20-year-old. His urinary bladder cancer is in remission, and the BCG treatments will end soon. It has been strange to learn many friends have had this problem. In October, they will be off for Paris and later to the Normandy beaches; their fourth time to be thankful for those heroes.

Sam Clement says that he and Dolores recently returned from their usual (in recent years) vacation in Europe, which this year included a cruise on the Rhone. On the cruise, they met Lynn Seldon ’83 and his wife, Cele.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes They are freelancing travel writers who did an article on tailgate partying in Lexington at some time in the past. In mid-June, Dolores was honored with the Filerman Prize at the annual conference in Philadelphia of the Association of University Programs in Health Administration. This is an annual recognition (sort of a lifetime achievement award) for a member of AUPHA who has been active in AUPHA affairs and governance and has been recognized by peers for advancing the field of health services administration through teaching and research.

Hugo Burton recently heard from Col. Bill Wanovich ’87, commandant of VMI. Bill was looking out his office window recently and saw BR Binnie Peay on the bricks outside of barracks with a spray bottle of weed killer in his hand spraying the grass coming up between the bricks. Bill immediately called the grounds people and told them the “boss” was spraying the weeds he had been trying for weeks to get them to do. A good boss will never ask those to do something that he wouldn’t do himself; lead by example. Hugo reports his step-son, Scott Beasley ’16, is enjoying his tour in Afghanistan and doing well. They spoke to Scott recently. Scott said that they had some missiles fired at them earlier that week. Their system picked up the missiles, and he brought them down before they got into their compound. He loves flying his Apache. Hugo frequently works out at the Carroll County Wellness Center. The fellow that works him out is an ex-recon Marine who was attached to a SEAL team on the East Coast. He makes him think he’s back in the Rat Line.

Sonny and Betsy Robbins are both in excellent health and enjoying life. Betsy is very competitive in duplicate bridge, tennis and golf.

The alumni chapters of Virginia colleges in Jacksonville get together once a year for a trivia contest. This year, UVa had 10-12 people, Virginia Tech 15, James Madison University 25 and five from VMI. They were the champions!

They had the right mix of classes (Classes of ’09, ’11, ’82, ’63 and ’62).

BR Nick Nicholson’s wife died from kidney cancer nine years ago, and Nick created the Judy Nicholson Kidney Cancer Foundation to assist kidney cancer patients, survivors and caregivers. Recently, they updated the foundation’s strategic plan to accelerate putting on

2018-Issue 4

symposiums around the country. He’s also on the Board of Freshministries, an ecumenical nonprofit, along with Dick Valentine ’72. The goal is to empower individuals and communities here and around the world to achieve their full potential. They’ve just launched a program with Bishop Tutu to attack hunger. He continues to coach chief executive officers through Vistage (formerly TEC) and finds it very rewarding.

Jerry Burnett advises that the dermatology company he was with shut down in March 2018. He stays busy with all his developments, timber and wildlife plantations, with motor graders, dozers, tractors, skid steers, lake repairs including hydrilla weed control in the 12acre lake. He and Joy are having a great time, including their wedding anniversary July 23, which they celebrated in Nashville. They plan to further celebrate at the Greenbrier in West Virginia and in October at Silverado in California. They played golf at Linville Country Club, Linville, North Carolina, in May, and he is looking forward to winning the senior club in August at Kinderton Country Club in Clarksville, Virginia. He took his grandson, Gerald C. Jr. (who has a provisional appointment) to VMI in June to the museum (and especially the gun collection) and Marshall Library, which he really enjoyed. Jerry and Joy and continue to enjoy excellent health.

Pete Pettit sent a photo of his attire for his Fourth of July golf outing. It was very patriotic.

Tony Curtis advises that Judy’s cancer has spread to her abdomen and ovary. (Tony had previously reported that her pancreatic cancer had returned, and she was undergoing radiation and chemo.) After consulting with her physicians, it was decided that further treatment would be fruitless, so she is in-home hospice. Tony says she is hanging in there and, in several areas, even doing a little better. Tony is doing well considering the situation, but I know some comforting words from brother/ sister rats would be helpful at this time. Tony’s contact info is tonyvmi62@gmail.com and (352) 530-3006. His address is 3121 Hillside Lane, The Villages, FL 32162.

Ed Vinieratos returned to Latvia in June after an extensive medical checkup and lower back surgery at the West Los Angeles Veterans Affairs Medical Center. He has been spending

Class of 1962: Bobby Howard and family with University of Virginia friends.

Class of 1962: Pete Pettit in his Fourth of July golf uniform.

Class of 1962: Ware and Belle Smith with tennis friends.

77

Class Notes the summer finalizing medical issues in Lat- must be stricter standards for admission and The two celebrants talked him into walking via. He lives on a blueberry farm in the Latvi- greater competition for limited cadetships, but the Golden Gate Bridge (approximately 3-andan forest, enjoying forest strolls, spotting deer, they seem eager and understand the challenge a-half miles round trip) with them during the stork, fox and an abandoned kitten which is they are about to accept. Joe is already making visit. It was a great weekend with weather in the 60s during the day and 50s during the evenow with a nearby home. This fall he will plans to be in Lexington for our 60th reunion.

Bill and Cynthia Bryant are enjoying good ning. He survived the walk (and didn’t embarvisit the Ukraine before returning to the USA. He has remained in the former Soviet Union health. In June, they went to the Netherlands rass himself); all’s well that ends well! (mostly Russia, but also, the Ukraine and Lat- to visit their daughter Katherine, who has George Collins and Maureen moved from via) for the last 25 years, retiring from a teach- a Ph.D. in neuroscience and received an EU the Miami area to Guilford, Connecticut, around the time of the VMI spring Board ing career following an engineering of Visitors meetings. In May, he drove career with the Federal Civil Service. from Lexington to New York City and Last summer he enjoyed a 27-day met Maureen at the Lowell for an outcruise visiting Arctic fiords from Norway, Norwegian Arctic islands, Icestanding dinner with former neighbors followed by a quick round trip from land, Greenland and the Faroe Islands.

Connecticut to Florida for a grandson’s Rosser and Kate Bobbitt did a week college graduation. In early June, he in Brussels, visiting their son, Max, and took the train to NYC for an investment his wife, Kasia. Next February, Max gathering of current top-notch intuitional and Kasia are going to present them managers who gathered at Craig Drill’s with their first grandchild – a girl. They Fifth Avenue office for a review of world can’t wait, but they guess they’ll have problems. Dr. Death, Al Wojnilower, a to. While in Brussels, they experienced veteran Wall Street economist was there, good food and beer. but he was not predicting a collapse at In July, Bruce and Cindy Ballard took this time. In June, he surprised Maureen their 18-year-old granddaughter, Ellison with a 55th wedding anniversary trip to Riley, on an extended Mediterranean Bermuda. When they got married their cruise out of Venice to Barcelona. He wore a red VMI visor ashore in all cruise Class of 1962: Ware Smith, Gordon White and Bill Bar- honeymoon consisted of a driving trip to Cooperstown, New York; Niagara ports, and to his surprise, he had two fel- nett ’50B. Falls; Montreal; New Hampshire; and low travelers who knew of the Institute as well as meeting two folks while walking Madame Curie scholarship at the University finally back to West Haven, Connecticut, all around on tours who knew about us. He says of Radboud in Nijmegen. The EU is offering in six days because he had to catch a double header for the Sacred Heart Yankees in the scholarship money to Americans in an effort it was totally mind blowing for such a small to entice American researchers to Europe, New Hampshire Twilight League, one of the school.

Dick Thomas advises that he and Marti visit- knowing research money is drying up in the oldest amateur baseball leagues in the country. ed with Tom and Carpie Coulbourn in August; U.S. They walked across the bridge that the Much like the Cape Cod League, lots of talent 82nd Airborne captured in the Market Garden with several former minor league players. He Tom had fallen recently and broke his hip. He couldn’t afford a trip to Bermuda at the time, has had surgery and was in rehab. Dick says campaign depicted in the movie “A Bridge Too Tom looks good and is making progress. They Far.” They found the Dutch to be easygoing, so they kept it to Motel 6-types and on the polite and happy people. They all speak excel- road. He has paid a heavy price all of his life had a great visit with them. for his insightfulness and penny pinching. In Joe Roberts and Len Collins attended the lent English, and they like Americans. burial service for Jerry Wagner at Fort Myer/ Cal and Roxanne Seybold and their young- Bermuda, they stayed at a new hotel, the LoArlington Cemetery. He was glad to see Gary est daughter (the author) met in San Francisco, ren, and swam every day in the ocean. Also, Gilmore (who roomed with Len and him dur- California, in August 2018, with their eldest in June, he hosted his 1958 Notre Dame High ing our 3rd Class year). He hadn’t seen Gary daughter (the rocket scientist) to celebrate her School class 60th anniversary at their home. since graduation. Gary looked great – older, 50th birthday and their son (the warrior) to Sixty attended, and two of his classmates reand there’s more of him than there used to be. celebrate his recent change of battalion com- minded him that they took Maureen to proms He recently attended the Alumni Association mand (July 21, 2018) and subsequent approval before he knew her. He attended Notre Dame George C. Marshall and Potomac River Chap- for promotion (July 22, 2018) to full colonel. for two years and then two years at the McBurters’ annual rat send-off for matriculating ca- They stayed at the recently renovated Lodge at ney School in NYC, where he graduated. He met Maureen in the summer of 1958 while lifedets in 2018. Turnout was pretty good for both the Presidio, which is on the former Presidio of San Francisco military base (closed and turned alumni and incoming 4th Class cadets. The guarding at the town’s major beach. In August, soon-to-be rats look better all the time. There into a Federal Park in 1994), during their visit. they traveled to Vancouver for a Disney cruise

78

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes to Alaska with nine of their 10 grandchildren, ages 6-24. They saw lots of black bears, eagles and salmon, along with glaciers and snow on the mountains. Upon returning, he prepared for a few sailing races in the Long Island Sound near their Connecticut home and a race around Martha’s Vineyard. They also visited a UVa law school friend on Nantucket and played Nantucket Golf Club, a terrific course. In September, he’s traveling back to VMI for the BOV meetings. They love the New England fall, so they won’t head back to Miami until late October or early November. Anyone coming their way, or wants to see a spectacular fall, please stop by in Guilford, Connecticut. In November, they head to Napa and San Francisco for an art museum tour.

Fred Shirley says that his health has vastly improved. He has been able to spend time for the first time in several years in the mountains at their place in Flagstaff, Arizona. He and Judy celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary July 27. His old roomie, J.W. Price was an usher in our wedding. They actually waited till Aug. 3 to celebrate with their family at a resort in Scottsdale, Arizona. What a fun time to be with their two sons from Texas, their spouses and five of the six grandchildren that live there.

The sixth was working as a nurse as part of her training before graduating from the University of Texas Nursing School in May 2018. Their daughter and her three children live nearby.

Finally, one of his neighbors nominated him to be one of the grand marshals in the city of Phoenix’s Veteran’s Day Parade. There was a representative from each of our country’s wars since World War II. Though he was in Vietnam for two years, he was the Cold War grand marshal. (Vietnam is considered part of the Cold War). He knew he was being nominated but never thought he would be selected. He thinks his last parade was Kennedy’s inauguration, or maybe it was the Civil War Parade in Richmond.

Doug and Signe Marechal celebrated their 55th wedding anniversary Aug. 11, 2018 (also his birthday). As a past president of the alumni association, he serves on three committees.

He’s at VMI frequently and continues to be in awe of what our BR J.H.B. Peay has and still accomplishes. He sees Binnie often, and he’s going strong in his 15th year as superintendent with lots of energy and vision. He says it

2018-Issue 4

has been a goal of his to get the Valley Chapter of the Alumni Association going again (it was very active for years as Col. Pancake ’68, Braxton Green ’50B and he kept it going). After 12-15 years of being dormant, he has it going well again. They had a great New Market dinner at the battlefield and just had a successful rat send-off with 50 people in attendance.

There are 10 rats from the Shenandoah Valley entering this year. He’s pleased, once again, that the chapter is healthy under leadership of chapter president, Cameron Seay ’70. He and Signe have a second home in Highland County. They go just about every weekend, and there is always lots of work to keep up 50 acres. They’re really proud of their son, Erik ’92, who was recently recognized at Nationwide Insurance meeting in California as an all-star agent and one of the top agencies in the U.S. Erik and family live in Florence, South Carolina. Their grandson is entering his second year at Wofford College, and their granddaughter is a freshman at University of South Carolina.

In April, Paul Rhodes attended the Bedford Armory Reserve Center memorial ceremony honoring Capt. Tucker Oliver ’63 and Elmer Nance, two Bedford natives who were killed in Vietnam. A wonderful ceremony attended by family, friends and Tucker’s brother rats.

Also in April, he attended the placement of a historical marker at Oakwood Plantation in Bedford, at the 1780 home of Brig. Gen. William R. Terry ’850, who represented Bedford County in the Senate of Virginia after the Civil War. On Memorial Day 2018, he attended the National D-Day Memorial celebration where the speaker was Brig. Gen. John W. Mountcastle ’65.

Bill Ritchie is in good health and still teaching Spanish at St. Petersburg College.

He recently got St. Pete College and Mote Marine Laboratory together to do some lagoon cleanup near the Bay Pines, Virginia, and working on growing stone crabs. He’s been with Mote for 40 years. He’s trying to publish some children’s books, but it is a long process. His wife of 55 years, Terry, teaches art locally.

I really appreciate the information that all you supply me with to complete these notes, especially the last-minute call for information. Keep up the good work.

1963

Michael J. Curley

Class agent’s corner: Sadly, we lost two brother rats this quarter, Bob Modarelli and Tom Steigelman – two diametrically opposed personalities: One highly visible, the other flying under the radar! Rather than post obituaries that have already been sent to you by email, let’s examine the dynamics of my job and that is, how to balance the announcement of their passing. First, let’s look to their similarities.

Both were practicing Catholics with parochial school educations and both were long married.

Bob and Tom had stable positions in their chosen fields of medicine and engineering, respectively – each innovative and each successful.

Both also believed in giving back to their community; Bob to Bellarmine Prep School while Tom gave his time to Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church Social Ministry in Newport News and the Knights of Columbus. Bob practiced medicine his entire life and was in the operating room at 77 years old when he fell, gravely injuring himself and died, whereas Tom spent 43 years at Newport News Shipbuilding as an engineer before retiring. Each loved the water; Bob’s home overlooked the Pacific, and Tom owned and frequented a second home at the Outer Banks.

The differences: 1) who didn’t know Modarelli and 2) just who remembered Steigelman well, if anyone? Modarelli was an excellent student; Steigelman, not so much!

One was an athlete, the other, not; one was boisterous and outgoing, and the other stayed to himself. Without going further, let’s ask ourselves who usually receives the longer and more detailed write up? Modarelli, of course, because we knew him well and had many more memories of the man than of Tom Steigelman ... so, off I went to write! After reading and rereading what I had written, I quickly realized that what I had committed to paper was not what VMI was all about! Thinking back to my response to the email from VMIAA announcing his demise, I knew I needed help. I simply didn’t know the man, so I promptly sent an

79

Class Notes email message to the class saying: “I profess ignorance of Tom’s time at VMI, or even his existence there during our cadetship; therefore, I am asking for some information on him.” I must tell you I am glad I reached out to you.

After receiving several interesting responses, I settled on Bill Cowardin’s response: “Tom and I started first grade together at Saint Vincent School in Newport News and were classmates through grammar and part of high school. We matriculated together at VMI. I’ve known him and his deceased wife, Mary Ann, throughout their married lives. She was head of outreach at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church for many years. Tom was her main support.

Tom spent over 40 years with Newport News Shipbuilding as an engineer. I had occasion to converse with him two weeks ago. He was a nice man and very kind to all those who knew him. I strongly feel his loss. He was another unassuming brother rat who lived a useful life and is a credit to our class and the Institute.”

My thanks to Bill and others for putting some flesh on this kind man’s identity! I finally realized that, though we experienced the loss of two men, though dissimilar, they were very much alike in that they each epitomized the perfect image of a VMI citizen-soldier; thus, each deserved equal recognition! May they rest in peace!

The scribe’s corner: Pat Kelly emailed in May he was “off to the movies” and on his way to Portland, Oregon, to speak at the 15th Annual Portland Horror Film Festival and introduce a showing of his 1972 film, “Asylum of Satan.”

He said, “Seems the early pictures of my deceased partner and brother-in-law, Bill Girdler, have generated somewhat of a ‘cult following’ lately. We made truly horrible B- grade movies

Class of 1963: J.P. Kelly at the Portland, Oregon, Horror Film Festival in May 2018. Kelly produced a horror movie in the 1970s that was shown at the festival.

80

for the drive-in, second feature market in the 1970s and ‘Asylum’ was our first – and worst.

The tie-in to VMI is the fact the couple who produce the Portland Horror Film Festival are of the VMI family. Gwen Crowley Callahan is the daughter of Dennis (aka Crow) and Linda Crowley. A few years ago, I gave her a theater poster from ‘Asylum,’ and that snowballed into a showing of the film during the run-up to this year’s festival. It should be a hoot!” Pat’s post-event comments confirmed it was indeed a “hoot.”

I hate silence and not knowing why Jan Gray didn’t make it to the reunion. So, I called him.

As feared, he had been on the gim and will remain on it for a while longer for an unknown malady. My four-year roomie when he chooses can be as talkative as an oyster with lockjaw.

Follow-up queries will be made. He did assure me that he will be at the next reunion.

I called Ken Jordan in early July to find out what he was up to. He’s been flying stealth for so many years I thought it was time to smoke him out, particularly since it was the day after Judy’s and my 52nd anniversary. Ken and Pam were there in 1966 when Judy and I tied the knot at her house in Chanute, Kansas. I was just back from my first Vietnam tour and weighed the same as my bride; I needed a lot of propping up, and Ken as my best man did an excellent job of getting me through the formalities. Pam and Judy were sorority sisters at Kansas State when Ken, Bill Canepa (my roommate at Fort Riley) and I were stationed there after graduation. By the way, Fred Green

Class of 1963: The Minors and the Riethmillers spent 24 hours in late July at the Miller’s family home in Sperryville, a bed-and-breakfast. Pictured were, from left, Cliff Miller, Steve Riethmiller, Gil Minor and Charlotte Minor.

was also on post at the time. In the meantime, I’m doing my best to encourage Ken to join the 60th festivities, but I may have a steep hill to climb. The good news is that he and Pam are doing fine living in Lansing, Kansas.

Mike Curley wrote to say, “Bob and Tina Powell graciously extended an invitation to Peg and me to visit their plantation in Whitestone, Virginia, a number of times. Once our reunion and a productive class agent meeting in Lexington with Bill Wells were in the history books, we finally did it. We spent an overnight there in early June complete with a pleasant sail on the Chesapeake Bay, right off their dock, and some yummy crab pickin’ for dinner. Kent and Cecelia McCraney joined us for dinner and a bit of practice picking those crabs apart. Not only did the latter provide a wonderful dinner, it also provided entertainment as neither Kent nor I are experienced pickers. A few drinks on their comfy screened porch overlooking the creek couldn’t have been more fun. Bob was a real trooper to escort Peg to Tangier Island the following morning for a look-see while I roamed the Northern Neck on my own, and Tina headed off for a book club meeting. A sumptuous dinner at the golf club then we were off back to reality. Many thanks, Bob and Tina, our favorite hosts! Late in July, Peg is headed to Michigan for a Baroque Music Festival on Beaver Island, and I’m headed to Naval Station Mayport, Florida, to see my nephew, a 30-year master chief petty officer, retire in the presence of his entire Arizona family along with my daughter, Britt, and her husband, Deak. Great fun, especially after the wedding of my grandson and new granddaughter, Cole and Stacey Spicer ’16, this past weekend!” The trip back from Florida included “an overnight visit and super delightful seafood dinner with Tom and Teak Whitford on the water in Daytona Beach and a near-miss visit with Mike Schwartz in Palm Coast, actually Hammock Dunes, a community I sold for a few years as their off-site agent in Richmond.

Beautiful place! Tom and Teak are both well as is Mike; however, both his daughter in Chicago and his wife are ailing.” Update: Both are now recovered according to Mike.

Bob and Tina Powell found a novel way to beat the heat on “a hot, humid rainy summer in Virginia. Go sailing in the British Isles for two weeks. That’s what we did and enjoyed

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes every minute aboard the Sea Cloud II. This is a square rigger with some 32,000 square feet of sail and 82 passengers, most of whom were British. They couldn’t have been more cordial, tariffs and all. No rain, and temps in the low 70s was a welcomed change. Touring some 12 sites to include Ireland (pubs, Guinness, more Guinness) and sailing as the wind allowed was likewise delightful. It was a great experience.” Yogi Doar looks to be downsizing the domicile and wrote to say, “After almost 44 years in our house on Golfview Court, Sharon and I have moved to a townhome a few miles away. (Yogi’s new address is posted at www. vmi63.net.) The Charlotte contingent continues to meet for lunch weekly, although yours truly has had to be absent the last several weeks with our move.”

Bunny Reynolds checked in to say he and Bill Moore traveled “through parts of Nova Scotia on the two-wheelers. We’ve done this annually for about 10 years, sometimes on our own motorcycles and sometimes renting especially if the itinerary takes us far from home base (Rockies, Canada, etc.). We usually take some photos worth sharing, but then again, we usually have weather that doesn’t require a lifeboat. This time, we rode the rented Harleys from St. John, New Brunswick, to Sydney, Nova Scotia, in two days, then sat in a hotel for four nights and three days watching it rain.

Lest you question our collective manhood, I would note that this wasn’t ordinary rain; it came with 30 to 40 mph winds with gusts to 50. And did I mention that we had the honor of being in Sydney on a day when the all-time low temperature for the date was matched – a morning temp of 3 degrees Celsius or about 37 degrees Fahrenheit. So, our primary activity was monitoring the weather.” One can only speculate whether future such trips will be preceded by reviewing the extended weather forecast and formulating an alternate and more weather-friendly route.

Mike Smither described his post-reunion activities that included visiting Williamsburg, Jamestown and Newport News for a week with their daughter and son-in-law and their 8-year-old twin sons. They “raced through 400 years of history in four days. The Virginia Living Museum (Newport News) is a gem, holding all the flora and fauna that Virginia offers, both indoors and out. Then we went to

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1963: Class Agent Mike Curley said of this photo, “This is the most requested picture from our 55th because of the statement it makes about the true VMI spirit.

Easily identified are, from left, Leland Caldwell, Bill Moore, Bob Walton, Buddy Cato, Harry Redd and Jim Key. I never tire of seeing this shot of the alums and the cadets supporting one another.”

Jamestown Settlement with its ship replicas, village recreations and a new and very impressive museum. Betty and I then spent time in Virginia Beach with Ghada and Beau Walker, Raleigh with my best Air Force buddy, Pinehurst with my cousin and Ocala with friends. A great trip – the best part being, of course, our reunion. Back home again we’ve been battling bugs, drought, rain and high temps and were forced to turn on our AC. Yes, the AC! At least it has not been snowing.” He called me in early July in part to complain about the heat in New Hampshire – heat? Mike, you don’t know heat until you come to the arid zone! The ice on the Rillito River in Tucson doesn’t even start breaking up until we reach 100.

John Mills described “a fantastic trip to Utah to see the national and state parks. We started in Moab, which is the home of Arches National Park, and about 8 miles away is the Dead Horse State Park. Arches is just gorgeous ... unbelievable configurations and beauty. Once we left Moab, we headed to Monument Valley National Park, which is home to the Navajo Indian reservation and the sight of many western movies. (A number of John Wayne movies were filmed there.) After taking many pictures and touring actual Navajo dwellings, we headed to Bryce Canyon National Park for

wonderful views around the top of the canyon and got caught in a June sleet storm (elevation 6,000-plus feet). Zion was the last park we visited before heading east.” For those of you in the East who haven’t been out here, there are wonders to explore. If you do come this way, begin or end your venture with the Holtrys in Oro Valley, Arizona, where you can be assured of free accommodations and libations of your choice.

Doug Sterrett “had surgery to replace my left hip joint. Since they had to take out the rods from last year when I broke it, the procedure was a little more complicated (four hours). I was dizzy when they walked me, so I had to have two units of blood. It looks like everything else is OK. I’ll go to the Foley Rehabilitation Center in Blowing Rock next week for follow-up. I’m thinking of all of you. May God bless you, BRs.” Hobbs Goodwin wrote to say, “Ed Shield and I are rooming together on a 12-day trip from Bucharest to Budapest. It will be on a small ship, about 160 passengers. We are joining Bob Byrd and his wife, Crellin, as well as two other couples. I’m heading to the Bahamas again this year with my son and his wife and three other couples between the ages of 45 and 50. It should be quite a challenge. I hope the

81

Class Notes to connect recently near Bunny’s place in Yanliquor stores will be fully stocked. We’ve rented there frequently, and when he did, he always a six bedroom house on the beach with swim- booked that room. A great bed, and a dozen or kee land – dinner at an outstanding French ming pool. We also rented two golf carts and so pictures of him decorate the wall. There’s a place near Southport where Bunny and Judy a 26-foot boat to get around in. We’ll be on El- bust of him on the TV cabinet. Guys, I was in live. Great pleasure, and the Reynoldses are in bow Cay where Hope Town Harbour is. I’m fantasy land! The next day on the way home great form and still roaring across the mounalso hoping to do a safari before the end of the to Tucson, we linked up with Jim McMahon, tains with Sleepy Moore (and others) on their the “esquire” of Patagonia, Arizona, where motorcycles! To report on our side, still can’t year.”

John Reid said in early August he and Sue we shared tales of yesteryear, caught up on escape from my wealth management ‘hobby,’ went to “Anchorage, Alaska, where we visited recent years and munched pastries. The only the multifamily wealth management firm I set our son, Nick, who is a chaplain at the Air downside was PK wasn’t feeling well enough up in Geneva 11 years ago after 36 years in Cito join us. Jim and I didn’t know each other at tibank. Doing well, but I’m finally planning to Force base there. Among the things we wanted to see in the area was the Hood Lake work mostly out of NYC where we’ve float plane base; I believe it is the largowned a place for the last 28 years.

We’re spending (enjoyably) the whole est in the world. The Alaska Aviation summer here. We’re doing fine but Museum was nearby, and it had a mawish the Yankees were doing better! jor section devoted to the World War On a sadder note, the inevitable had II events in the Aleutians.” Following to happen. Given the move back to the the visit, he bought a book, “Attu: The USA, we‘re selling ‘Trox,’ our 37-meForgotten Battle,” commissioned by the National Park Service. “Looking ter canal barge we’ve owned for some at the book, I noted the author was 28 years now and enjoyed visits thereJohn Haile Cloe. I know a number of on from many of our ’63 BRs. What our BRs have written many things, but a pleasure that has been for us. But, this was the first time one of them apat least for the moment, we will keep our place up in the French Alps to espeared in my hands. I read the book on the flight home and enjoyed it very cape to. Re: VMI linkages, I regret no much. Seeing his name on the book longer being on the Foundation board brought back many memories of John, (term ran out), as it was getting me including our riding together to sumdown several times a year to LexingClass of 1963: Bob and Tina Powell treated Peg and Mike mer camp at Fort Bragg in 1962.” Hey, Curley to a brief sail on the Chesapeake Bay during a re- ton to connect with the Riethmillers, John, There’s a synopsis of my latest cent visit in July. Class Agent Mike Curley said, “Notice Wellses and others, but I’ve agreed to book, “Legacy,” volume 2 of the Arrius Bob’s deft right hand on the helm, almost out of sight!” be on the Investment Committee for trilogy in the book announcement secthe Foundation, and we meet quartion. (I admit the latter is crass and shameless VMI, but we intend to make up for lost time terly – but in New York. I enjoy that. I look in the future. Looking back, how many of us forward to any of our BRs heading up to NYC advertising.)

Pete Brunel emailed he was off to “Montana in barracks square ever got much time outside and checking in with us!” with Doug Rowe for prairie dog shooting,” af- our shared classes and company ranks to get to Peggy Riethmiller reported, “The Minors and the Riethmillers spent a lovely 24 hours at ter which he was going to Canada for his an- know each other?

Bonnie Reeder emailed Mike: “Thanks so Cliff ’s family home in Sperryville that is a fivenual fishing trip. I wonder what Pete would do without a rifle or a fishing rod in his hands? much for the 55th photos! Did us both a world star (my rating) bed-and-breakfast. Charlotte Minor is in the picture. Lucille had just left to In response to Mike Curley’s Florida trip dur- of good seeing so many of our VMI friends! ing which he drove his VW bus, Pete respond- Everyone looks so good! Especially you, Mike! help plan a wedding when I remembered to ed, “By the non-power invested in me, being Can’t figure who Judd is with? Anyway, we take a picture right before our departure. Our a former 1981 VW Vanagon owner, I hereby so appreciate your kindness in sharing! Hugs, VMI news is the 10-years retired old chemispronounce you a born-again 1960s Woodstock Bonnie and Ken.” So, Judd, you want to iden- try professor is back in the classroom this fall! hippie for driving your VW pseudo-bus around tify the person? Agnes Gootee also responded Steve’s teaching one class to help out the deFlorida. Did you wear a nice rug? Did you have to getting the photos: “Thanks, Mike, I really partment!” your guitar? Did Yoko Ono travel with you?” enjoyed seeing these!”

To balance the grim news Mike must occasionJudy and I spent a night in the Copper Queen Bob Troxler reports he’s working in New ally convey, I’d like to close now and then on a Hotel in Bisbee, Arizona. This alone is not York City for most of the summer before more humorous note by going back to the lighter exactly breaking news; however, what is sigreturning to Geneva in September. Bob and side of barracks life that still survives fading nificant is the room Judy and I stayed in: The Bunny Reynolds with brides Nancy and memories. It’s about recalling the most ridicuJohn Wayne Room! The Duke used to stay Judy, respectively, had a “great opportunity lous situation that may have not been funny at

82

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1964

John R. Cavedo

Class of 1963: Judy and Bunny Reynolds, seated, joined Bob and Nancy Troxler for dinner recently at a French place near Southport, Connecticut, where Bunny and Judy live. the time, but in hindsight, it rates a smile. Here’s an example. Flashback to our 4th Class year a few days after the Rat Line ended and the beginning of the final hop weekend. I had a date, a high school sweetheart who was due to arrive at 12:30 a.m. by bus in Lexington from Newport News. I ran the block out of a chivalric notion to escort the young lass to her lodgings. The bus was on time; she, who will not be named, was not among the passengers. There were two thoughts that went through my mind: I’m downtown without authorization with visions of a stick-check about to hit the door, and I’m already thinking my former significant other is no longer significant. Postscript, I got back to barracks fast (with an extra incentive to the cab driver) before the stick check was complete (barely). Needless to say, it was the end to a very memorable high school interlude. Send me your “gray” memories, and as space permits and decency requires, you’ll have a chance to give us all a laugh or a smile.

Bunny Reynolds wrote regarding the VMI ’63 class scholarship. In connection with our 55th Reunion, it was suggested that since the big push for general donations for the 50th was behind us, “we might all consider the impact of investments in future cadets and direct a portion of our periodic contributions to the Class of 1963 Scholarship.” That suggestion may have been taken to heart, since the value of the fund as of June 30 was $306,928 – an increase of 55 percent since the end of 2017! Congratulations to ’63, and thanks to those who were able to help.

Stay well, safe and in the bonds, Pres

2018-Issue 4

It’s never pleasant to begin these class notes with the announcement of the death of a brother rat. In this case, we’ve lost two: Gary Thrasher and Kevin MacCarthy. Both died of long term complications and a history of medical issues. Still, a great loss is felt by all of us.

Another long lost brother rat, Jack West, died.

We didn’t receive word on his death until several years late.

Ron Fischer: “Nancy and I celebrated the 50th anniversary of our marriage April 4, 1968, at Fort Bragg. We made our home in Charlottesville, Virginia. I retired from the National Ground Intelligence Center. We have two sons and four delightful grandchildren. The past three years have been a challenge. I’ve had a series of debilitating diagnoses and months in hospitals and rehab centers which have rendered me house and wheelchair dependent.

I’m truly blessed to have a loving family and supportive friends.”

Harvey and Delores Sergeant took a trip east, visiting Tom and Helen Davis and Hank and Elizabeth Cronin in the process.

Bill Mendel: “I had a great time last week with two grandchildren visiting from Liberty, Missouri. We had fun going to the beach and taking the boat out for a spin. I had time to fit in some shooting with International Defensive Pistol Association and U.S. Practical Shooting Association which sponsor shooting competitions. I am now in Tampa, Florida, teaching in a Combating Terrorism Course for the U.S. Special Operations Command education component called Joint Special Operations University. Later in August, I will be in Colombia on a teaching team for U.S. Special Operations South presenting a course on Interagency Collaboration. But for the most part not much happening here in northwest Florida, except a brown bear walked through the neighborhood last week.”

Tom Sebrell: “I haven’t traveled yet, but we’re going to a Colorado ranch again in September.

I will try to send pictures for next the issue.

Also, my youngest son, Andy, had another boy the first of July. He and his wife, Katherine, live in Bozeman, Montana, and now have two boys and a girl. We bought a new house in Franklin, Tennessee, last month and plan to move as soon as we can sell our house in Savannah. It will probably in the mid-fall. Penny wanted to be closer to her grandchildren in Nashville. I was really sorry to hear of the passing of Gary Thrasher and Kevin McCarthy. Both were good friends while at the Institute.”

Chris Hopkins: “Lesley and I try to spend a month in Cannes every year. One of the city’s highlights is the annual pyrotechnics festival, one of the weekly spectaculars by different international companies. It’s a great place to vacation!”

On a personal note, Sherrel and I just returned from 30 days in Europe. The first four days we were joined in Nairn, Scotland, by W.J. and Lauranne Kitchen. The four of us “trained” around northeast and northwest Scotland, exploring lots of historical sights.

Plus, we went to the Isle of Skye and saw magnificent panoramas of the Scottish highlands and coastlines. W.J. and Lauranne headed to London to start a Grand Circle experience while Sherrel and I remained in the Glasgow area for three additional days in an attempt to find some of my McIntosh and Munro ancestors, or at least their ancestral homes and burial sites. We saw evidence time and again of how the Vikings spread their DNA in Northern Europe. While very interesting, I will never again rent a car to drive on the “wrong” side of the road unless it has an automatic transmission.

Shifting with floor stick on the left side of the steering wheel is just asking for a disaster.

Following that, we rejoined W.J. and Lauranne, as well as Frank and Marci Parker plus

Class of 1964: David Ayers, Butch Nunnally and Tom Myers, in Plantation, Florida, in August 2018.

83

Class Notes

Class of 1964: Tony and Barb Munera at their son’s promotion to Army brigadier general at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, in July 2018.

Class of 1964: Tom Davis and Harvey Sargent in Newport News, Virginia, in June 2018.

Mary Jo Jordan and her husband, Bill Bandy.

We were all part of a group of 22 representing the VMI Class of 1964. Our 15-day cruise tour included London then several British Isles, Dublin and Belfast, and another several Scottish islands and landlocked communities before ending up with a wonderful stop in Edinburgh. While we were on the trip, Frank and Marci celebrated their 53rd wedding anniversary. Most of the group stayed for another three days in Edinburgh while Sherrel and I again broke off on our own.

That included flying to Kirkenes, Norway (about 2 miles from where Norway, Finland and Sweden come together). We boarded a 500-passenger ship of the Hurtigruten line for a six day cruise south through some of the most spectacular scenery. There were 32 port stops along the way. One being Hammerfest, the northern most city in the world, 270 miles north of the Arctic Circle. Finally, from Bergen, we flew to Gatwick in London before flying home.

Over the last several months, I’ve had pleasant calls with several brother rats: Al Fiorini, Bill Taylor, Don Carson, Cliff Crittsinger, Bill Garber, Hank Cronin, Buzz Birzenieks, Andy Tucker, Ed Seager, Ken Dice and Tom Myers. Each is enjoying relatively good health.

84

Michael Degman: “Just a bit of local color from Fairbanks, Alaska. In the lower 48, there are beer kegs of Corona, Budweiser, Coors, Heineken, etc. But Alaska is different; we have bear kegs. These kegs are designed to keep people’s food safe from hungry bears and other predatory animals, whether you are on the move or temporarily stationary in a cabin, tent, etc. There are no handles or places to easily grip the sides of the bear kegs. It is a purposefully slippery keg. It is awkward to carry even when using two free arms and two free hands.

As an option there is a canvas bag to put the bear keg in so one can carry it by a strap while holding onto other things.

“Food odor control is important when you are in the countryside between cities in Alaska.

It invites bears or predatory animals to your location. The bear keg also limits the amount of food odor that escapes. Forest animals have an extraordinary sense of smell. My bear keg is bright yellow. It is relatively easy to see even in low light conditions. There is no need for me to go anywhere for vacation each summer. I am already there.”

King von Schilling: “I am signed up to attend the Loudoun County, Virginia, rat sendoff barbecue Aug. 4. A Loudoun cadet received the Cadet New Market Legacy Award this year.

“Mary has only four more therapy sessions and she should be done. Her condition has lasted since October 2017. She is still not 100 percent but very close.

“I was shocked to hear of Kevin MacCarthy passing. Denny Vaughan, Kevin and I were roommates our 3rd Class year. He had a great sense of humor and probably the only thing that kept me sane that year, though it may be disputed that I was sane.

“I had the opportunity to attend a New Market commemorative ceremony at the Leesburg, Virginia, cemetery which has a New Market cadet buried there. We then had happy hour, dinner and a program at a local restaurant. Keith Gibson ’77 was the speaker. He really knows his VMI history. He was very entertaining and informative. It’s always good to be in his audience.”

Dick Atkinson: “Since Susan and I are becoming less like spring chickens every day, we decided to increase our travel with our family. In April, we took our youngest daughter, Debbie, along with her husband and one granddaughter to Israel for a 10-day trip that covered the country from top to bottom and focused on Jerusalem. A side trip to Petra in Jordan was also fabulous. I had a scientific meeting in Vienna in May, so we got to see a little of the city, then took a train to Basel, Switzerland. Our daughter, Barbi (whom a number of our BRs know), and her husband, Duke, joined us for a cruise down the Rhine from Basel to Amsterdam on a Viking River cruise. Lots of great stuff, but Heidelberg was wonderful. In July-August, we brought all our children, grandchildren, spouses, etc. to Woods Hole, Massachusetts, for a family reunion. There were 29 people in one house! In August, Susan and I have a trip planned to the ‘rivah’ to stay with Bill McVey and Bill Garber – golf, some adult beverages and stories about VMI that we forget between visits but our wives remember. The rest of the year is going to be somewhat quiet, but I have a two week trip to Pakistan planned for September where I will be a visiting professor at the University of Karachi. I am watching the unrest around the recent election with only modest alarm – not yet outright panic.”

Jan Rudinoff: “Paula and I spent the end of February through May in Venice. We walked and raced over bridges with the locals supporting several events. Having spent several months here in past years, we get around like locals. We are attendees at St. George’s Anglican Church, on the board of the Venice Music Project and regulars at Club Delfino, our local gym. Paula is conversant in the language, and I can order wine, food and ask for the bill. Not to be left out of the BR medical ills group, I recently had a surgical procedure on my right eye. It solved a minor problem. We’ll be in Venice for the remainder of the year. Happy to share a spritz

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1964: Frank and Marci Parker, John and Sherrel Cavedo, W.J. and Lauranne Kitchen, and Bill Bandy with Mary Jo Jordan in Scotland in July 2018. with any BR who may show up.”

Andy Colyer: “Kathy and I bought a cottage in Maine last winter. This little 1,800 square foot jewel is in a community surrounding the Old Marsh Country Club near Wells, Maine, just south of Kennebunkport and north of Ogunquit. We plan to live there a little less than half the year – a lot of it during the offseason winter months. We were there last winter and really enjoyed it. We have been vacationing in Maine for about 30 years and have finally become Mainiacs. The cottage was under about 10 feet of snow until April.”

Cliff Crittsinger writes that “the Class of

Class of 1964: Bill Taylor, Walt Sykes and John Thornton were at the “rivah” in July 2018.

2018-Issue 4

2018 chose Cadet Paul Conteh ’18 from Leesburg, Virginia, as the fifth recipient to date of the Class of 1964 Cadet New Market Legacy Award. The award was presented by BR Don Jones May 14 during the Institute Awards Ceremony in Cameron Hall. Additionally, this is the first time the cadets fully ran the entire selection process without representation from the Class of 1964. Finally, as director of the VMI Alumni Association’s Great Northwest Region, I am proud to announce that Colorado had 11 rats matriculate into the Corps in August – the largest single class ever in the history of the state. Otherwise, all remains well here in Denver and Colorado.”

Chuck MacDonald: “We are fine but have been out of pocket/commission since late last summer. We thought she had extreme sciatica (as had been the case three years earlier). We went to the doctor in August 2017 thinking she would leave that day after a shot. But, Xrays showed zero cartilage in both hips. Replacement hip No.1 was in November 2017 and No. 2 was this past June. She is still doing physical therapy and getting better each day.”

John Thornton: “Bill Taylor and went up to Annapolis in June to visit Walt Sykes. Walt is currently living in very nice assisted living home on the banks of the Severn River. The home has a nice view of the Annapolis capital and the Naval Academy. He gave us a tour of the facilities and then took us to Mike’s Crab House on the water. We had some perfect steamed crabs and draft beer. It was special catching up with Walt as I miss him visiting at the Rappahannock ‘Rivah.’

“Ronnie and I just got back from a trip to Sedona, Arizona, and visiting our son in Monterrey California. Our son, Stuart, has just finished a revision of one of his travel books, ‘California Road Trip’ (Moon Press), if anyone is traveling out there. While there, we went on a fantastic whale watching tour in Monterrey Bay. My great-nephew, Robert Thompson ’07, who is in the Naval Post Graduate School, also got us into the Sunday brunch there, which is really worth attending if you can get invited.

“We came back to our farm in Manakin, Virginia, to find mold blossoming in several bathrooms and walls. It had rained every day since we had gone. I guess I’m in construction management again.”

Tom Davis: “After those 44 years in Lexington, Helen and I have been adjusting the past two years to our new life in a continuing care community in Newport News. We’re close to our son, Marshall, and Kim and the two grandkids they provided us, Jacob (almost age 4) and James (almost 2). I attended a very nice alumni meeting in this area last month organized by the Peninsula Chapter here. I enjoyed seeing John Rowe ’66, who currently serves as mayor of Portsmouth. I’m pleased that my ‘old’ VMI roommate, Hank Cronin, will be moving with his wife, Elizabeth, to a very nice house just outside Lexington.”

Bill Crone: “I just read the recent issue of the Alumni Review and think we should all give a huge well done to Frank Parker. Frank posted the final class notes for his dad’s Class of ’39, since the last of his dad’s brother rats are now deceased. Frank has been the ’39 class agent for the past 10-plus years, and what a splendid job he did (I always looked forward to his notes, as well as ours). His was a moving and sincere tribute and ended with a great poem which he penned in memorial: ‘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.’

I suggest all brother rats pull out that issue and read Frank’s final words for the esteemed Class of ’39. Well done, brother rat.”

A class agent note: While Frank has been the official class agent for ’39, he was not able to attend all the class agent meetings. Neither was I. Hank Cronin filled in for one or both of us several times, taking notes and passing them on. Thanks, Hank!

Again, thanks to those who provided notes and photos. Obviously, without the input, there would be no notes. You won’t see these notes until the November timeframe. By then we’ll be very close to sending out the details of the 55th Reunion. So, be on the lookout for your application, etc.

Recently I emailed a copy of the class roster to all those for whom I have an email address.

If you don’t normally use email but wish to receive a copy, please borrow a computer and send me your email address, even if you have to have temporary help from a friend or relative. You can always print it out. All of my contact information is at the top of the notes.

Happy Thanksgiving.

85

Class Notes

1965

Mickey Finn

Someone had to be first, and it is Nat’s turn.

Life change announcement from Nat Ward: “Mickey, so you want some personal notes.

Dee and I are selling our house in San Diego after 40 years. We are moving 3 miles away to The Glen, which is a $300 million full-care retirement facility. For you BRs around Washington, D.C., this is similar to The Fairfax. It should be ready for occupancy around Christmas 2019. Hard decision, but at 76, I do not want the kids caring for us. Everything is provided, from all meals to transportation wherever. If you want me to get more personal, I can enlighten you as to which peg leg I’m wearing today. Thanks and best, Nat and Dee Ward.”

Barry Walker reported: “It has been a hot summer here in Colorado. I went to the rat send-off picnic where I saw Cliff Crittsinger ’66. For some odd reason, he didn’t recognize me. We have 10 Colorado rats this year. You are right, they look really young; much less mature than we did, I’m sure. I had lunch with Joe Irby ’85, VMI Foundation major gifts officer, a few weeks ago. I was sure he was going to ask for money, but he didn’t even bring it up.” Barry, he will be back; after all, you retired from the FBI! Norman “Butch” Land has “great news: I’ll soon be a first-time grandfather! I can hardly wait. On another front: I self-published a book on Amazon.com, “Tales of Renaissance Artists.” The tales were written by Renaissance authors from ca. 1300 to ca. 1650. At the moment, I’m working on a follow-up book: ‘Stories of Renaissance Artists by 19th-Century Women Authors.’ Neither book will ever be a best-seller. Both books are anthologies.”

Bob Whaley is in Missouri for the summer season but “not much to report. Linda and I are hanging out in our summer (hurricane season) hangout. Seems like there’s nothing I like better than not having anything I need to do!

We will, however, get on a plane tomorrow for a five-day excursion to Washington, D.C., for the government’s annual prisoner of war/MIA

86

conference. My dad was lost in the Korean War and remains never recovered. With all the recent activity on that subject, I’m cautiously optimistic that he may eventually come home.

I’m sure there will be no new info this year; the DNA process is slow, and they have to check every bone. I read that most of the 55 returned came from up around the Chosin Reservoir, not near where he was buried. Dad was an Army major who got stuck with the unenviable job of advising a South Korean outfit that was overrun by the Chinese. Anyway, the two days of briefings are always interesting, particularly the technology advancements in DNA. After the briefings Thursday and Friday, they are doing a memorial reading of the names of all the MIAs from Korea and doing a wreath laying at the Korean War Memorial Saturday. This ceremonial reading of all 7,700-plus names of Korean War MIAs at the Korean War Memorial in Washington was quite a production.

“U.S. Army retired Colonel Weber, an old friend who served with my father in Korea, is head of an organization working to improve the Korean War Memorial, and he set up this shindig.

“It was a memorial wreath laying by several organizations including the South Korean ambassador, the South Korean vice chief of staff and the director of the U.S. Defense POW/ MIA Accounting Agency. It consisted of about 40 minutes of ceremony, after which most of the big wigs left and we got down to reading

the full name of each of the men who are MIA from the Korean War from about 9:45 a.m. until about 5:30 p.m. I helped with the name reading for about an hour, including the reading of my dad’s name. The weather was fairly nice all day until (of course) I was working on the Ws. But it didn’t rain real hard. I read for a good five minutes in the heaviest of the rain before somebody came out with an umbrella. I wish I had a picture of that!” Thanks, Bob, for sharing this very timely life experience!

Congratulations to Lou Siegel, who reports, “For the record, I am now the executive director of The Rockfish Valley Foundation. This is a small nonprofit in Nelson County, Virginia.

It is transitioning from an all-volunteer foundation, including the founder as executive director (and president and chair) to a paid executive director – me. So, wish me luck. I’ve been in the position since July 1 – having fun. We are also the grateful grandparents of a third grandson, born Aug. 3. I hope all of our classmates are taking as good care of themselves as they can. Love you guys.”

Danny Price lists attendees for lunch at Lowery’s in Tappahannock June 24, 2018: Bob Wilkinson, Wayne Chiles, Melvin Brannan, Jeff Wilkins, Chuck Hough, Irwin McCumber, Granny Amos, Cliff Fleet, Phil Taylor, Danny “C.D.” Price, Easley Moore, Daryl McClung, Tom Howard, Charlie Russell, Bob Southworth, Gary Ross, Jim Sinclair, Bob Deaderick and Godwin Jones.

Class of 1965: The class gathered for lunch at Lowery’s Seafood Restaurant in Tappahannock June 24, 2018. Seated are, from left: Bob Wilkinson, Wayne Chiles, Melvin Brannan, Jeff Wilkins and Chuck Hough. Standing: Irwin McCumber, Granny Amos, Cliff Fleet, Phil Fleet , Danny “C.D.” Price, Easley Moore, Daryl McClung, Tom Howard, Charlie Russell, Bob Southworth, Gary Ross, Jim Sinclair, Bob Deaderick and Godwin Jones.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1965: Bob Whaley read the “W”s of those missing in action at the Korean War Memorial in Washington, D.C. while Col. Weber, in the wheelchair, looked on. Weber is a friend of Whaley’s father, a U.S. Army major who was lost in the Korean War and whose remains have not been recovered.

Russell Proctor kindly shared some memories about his roommate, Bruddy Baillio: “Our Brother Rat John Bruddy Baillio died unexpectedly May 8, 2018. He was a greatly respected member of the Virginia Beach community, having lived at the beach his entire life, except for his time in the Army. He served two years in the Army, one year of which was in Korea. He was both unit vector and VD control officer. I believe he was mortar platoon leader.

The unit was one of the few in Korea whose personnel received the Expeditionary Medal in the 60s. Devoted to the community, he served as president of the Virginia Beach Foundation, on many boards and committees of the city government, and was president of the Virginia Beach Volunteer Rescue Squad at the time of his death. This is said to be the largest volunteer rescue squad in the country. His work life was centered around the Baillio Sand Company, which was founded by his father (a VPI man) back in the 1930s. He was a great family man and a great friend to me and my family. He and his wife, Nancy, visited us in Thailand and Korea (and even went to Hong Kong to meet my future in-laws at the time when Pat and I were planning marriage). When we moved to the U.S., we settled directly across the street from the Baillios in Virginia Beach. It was one of the best decisions of our lives. His loss was a real shock to all of us and to the beach community. His brother, Bob Baillio ’59, myself and another close friend, Richard Wight (his father

2018-Issue 4

was in the VMI Class of 1930), had the duty to speak at Brud’s memorial service. We were honored to be asked to speak by the family, but it was hard duty. We have lost a real friend, a fine member of our class.”

The Wilmington Chapter rat send-off dinner and reception Aug. 7 at The Surf Club at Wrightsville Beach was well attended. The guest speaker was Col. Keith Gibson ’77, executive director of the VMI Museum System, who spoke directly to the soon-to-matriculate five male incoming cadets and one female incoming cadet. Among those attending were Bill and Carol Ryan, Will and Sandra Scott, and Mickey and Jane Finn.

In closing, we have had a very rainy spring and summer so far this year, and our lawns look great – especially at Bill Ryan’s house. Bill was kind enough to share the secret, and if I remember, I’ll share it in the next issue – if and only if it works! In the meantime, remember the times we get together and close each one with a loud ’65! ’65! ’65!

1966

Nick Hoskot

As many of you know, John Jumper was presented/awarded the New Market Medal during the annual New Market Ceremony May 15, 2018. Past awardees include general of the Army Gen. George Catlett Marshall ’901 and, in 1965 while we were still Keydets, U.S. Senator Harry Flood Byrd ’35 of Virginia. The final sentence of the award citation reads: “For a

Class of 1966: Pete Charrington, along with Paul and Linda Maini, attended an engagement party for Peter Farley’s daughter in Wintergreen, Virginia.

Class of 1966: Retired U.S. Air Force Gen. John Jumper administered the oath to Navy Ensign Mason Louthan ’18, May 15, 2018. Mason is Frank Louthan’s nephew and the son of Bob Louthan ’82. life of dedicated service to this nation, one that has emulated the VMI concept of the citizensoldier and the ageless values of VMI.” Well done, sir, from your brother rats. The Louthans and Sadlers co-hosted a dinner on the evening of the 14th. Approximately 30 BRs and their wives attended the two events. John also took the time on the 15th to swear in Frank Louthan’s nephew, Mason ’18, as an ensign in the Navy.

In late May, Dick Goodall, along with his son, Taylor ’03, and grandson, Cole Gray (a provisional appointee), participated in a 5K run and all finished in the top three of their age groups. In Dick’s case, the over-70 males.

“Rah, rah VMI.” Charlie Ramsburg visited Arlington National Cemetery last June and before his visit was curious concerning which of our 11 BRs killed in action in Vietnam were buried there. The

Class of 1966: Retired U.S. Army Col. Bob Patrick ’70, retired U.S. Air Force Col. Jim Pauls and retired U.S. Army Col. Hal Hostetler ’68 participated in a Military Officer Association of America Virginia Council of Chapters meeting in Richmond, Virginia.

87

Class Notes

Class of 1966: John Rowe and Sean Lanier ’94 met up while attending the National Naval Officers Association symposium Aug. 8-9, 2018, in Portsmouth, Virginia. Rowe is the Portsmouth mayor, and Lanier presented at the symposium. answer is five, and six interred elsewhere. If anyone would like to know the specifics, please contact Charlie, John Walters, Col. Keith Gibson ’77 at VMI or me.

Rick Kiernan continues to actively support veterans’ affairs for Vietnam veterans in the Philadelphia area and was a participant/speaker for a Vietnamese flag raising at the Philadelphia City Hall. Thanks, Rick!

Jim and Sandra Smith were married in July, and he provided a picture of our BRs who were in attendance. They were: Knox McEwen, Jim Whitehurst, Herb Chittum, Guthrie Smith, Carl Rhodes, Dick Goodall, Jim Upton, Dick Daugherity, Rusty Smith ’93 (Jim’s son) and Taylor Goodall ’03 (Dick’s son).

Jim Pauls provided a photograph of him and several other VMI alums who participated at a meeting of the Military Officer Association of America at a Virginia Council of Chapters

gathering in Richmond. Joining Jim were retired U.S. Army Cols. Hal Hostetler ’68 and Bob Patrick ’70. Jim is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel. MOAA is a “nonprofit organization of some 300,000-plus members dedicated to maintaining a strong national defense and ensuring our nation keeps its commitments to currently serving, retired and former members of the uniformed services and their families and survivors.”

Pete Charrington writes that “things” are going well in Wayne, Pennsylvania, near Philadelphia (the place where champions live – Villanova and the Eagles). He is still working 25 percent of the time while also enjoying their places in St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands, about five times a year for two to three weeks a visit and chasing eight grandchildren around, all of whom live within 15 minutes of him. At the end of June, he joined Paul Maini in Lexington for their fourth member/guest at the Lexington Golf & Country Club. Additionally, he and Paul traveled to Wintergreen, Virginia, for Peter Farley’s daughter’s engagement party, and they will be returning for that wedding in October, also in the Wintergreen area.

“Parky” Parkman admits to missing opportunities to send info along for these notes, so now he updates us with a summary of his and Mary Fran’s busy life since October 2017! First, the recovery period for back surgery for a herniated disc lasted longer than anticipated, but

by April, they were on the road – first to Mississippi, then the University of Alabama, the Vicksburg battlefield and a stop in Memphis to “check on Elvis!” Then they spent a week

Class of 1966: Brother rats and VMI sons gathered at Jim Smith’s wedding to Sandra Lynne. Pictured were, from left, John Knox McEwen; Jim Whitehurst; Rusty Smith ’93, son of Jim Smith; Herb Chittum; Guthrie Smith; Carl Rhodes; Jim Smith; Taylor Goodall ’03, Dick Goodall’s son; Dick Goodall; Jim Upton; and Dick Daugherity.

88

at Myrtle Beach resting up for their annual international trip to Greece: Athens, Nafplia, Crete, Santorini, etc. “What an amazing country! It was quite common to see things that are 3,500-5,000 years old!” They next spent four days in Washington, D.C., and then to Emerald Isle, North Carolina, for a family vacation. They just recently returned from a family reunion in Luray, Virginia, that was on Mary Fran’s mom’s side. The next trip was planned for mid-September for another reunion in Virginia! Whew! Keep on charging ahead, Parky!

Thanks for the update(s).

Charlie and Gail Ramsburg enjoyed lunch at the Skull Creek Boathouse on Hilton Head Island with Hugh Gouldthorpe ’61, Lynn Seldon ’83, Ray Crickenberger ’60, John Sykes ’73, Bo Wren ’11 and Ryan Benson ’07. Charlie has also located and seen BR Ron Trent, who is now living in Dandridge, Tennessee.

Ron was in Company D and their 4th Class year room (422) was a transition room between D Company and F Company. Charlie had undertaken an effort before our 50th Reunion to find all of our BRs who completed at least one year with us in barracks. Ron says that, although he does not now have many connections to VMI, he does enjoy reading his issues of the Alumni Review.

George Newton has a new address in Cantabria, Spain, and if you want to write or visit him, let me know. As George notes, “The ambience is great, and there are no Walmarts. Food is real, no chemicals; garlic has taste; meat is hormone-free with no antibiotics; wine has always been good; and in 10 miles in any direction, there is real history. Not too bad. Here, people are not fighting each other. Judo is still a big part of my life. I was appointed to be the international ambassador the United States Ju-Jitsu Association and elected to the board of directors. Made the top 50 masters book – keeps you young and motivates like a Marine!

(Oorah!)” Thanks, George; keep us posted!

Finally, Sean Lanier ’94 was attending a National Naval Officers Association Symposium Aug. 8-9 in Portsmouth, Virginia, and was joined there by Adm. John Richardson, U.S. Navy chief of Naval operations, and by John Rowe, mayor of Portsmouth!

Take care and be safe. Your next class notes due date is mid-November. Thanks for all the input for these notes.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1967

Jan Abernathy

Several of you just missed the May issue deadline, so I begin with slightly old news.

A recent Institute Report covered cadets in the fishing club doing service work. Here is a firsthand report by Jamie Tate. “I spent four nights and five days with the VMI fishing club on an FTX community service project in early April this spring. Working with Jim Simons ’76; Keith Gibson ’77, the faculty adviser; and 20 cadets, we worked in the new Natural Bridge State Park south of Lexington.

The cadets cleared out and created two group camping sites, cleaned up and leveled a hiking trail, completed an emergency access road and cleared two log jams in the creek through the park. They worked in weather that went from freezing at night to short sleeves during the day and one snowstorm. The evenings were livened up with visits by black bears on three nights.

Through all this work and weather, I was impressed by the good humor and hard work of the cadets. They took everything in stride and completed their work ahead of schedule. I had an hourslong conversation with one of the girls who was a member of the women’s rifle team.

It was good to catch up on the latest equipment and team matches results.”

Bill Kiniry: “Hey, Jan, thanks for minding to keep us in touch. A brief update: Page continues her wonderful work at Brookgreen Gardens at Pawleys, South Carolina. To all BRs, it’s worth a visit. Let me know if you’re by that way! Our youngest, Liam, graduates this Sunday from the University of Virginia School of Architecture and will continue in the master’s program at RIT in big data. Spencer will finish his master’s program in Geneva in international relations concentrating in Sub-Saharan Africa, where he has spent two summers, in September. Christian is developing real estate, having done the Quirk Hotel in Richmond. It was featured in Southern Living and The New York Times and is now ranked No. 4 in the South.

He has now commenced development on a second project in Charlottesville after getting an OK

2018-Issue 4

from my roommate, L.F. Payne. I continue multiuse projects in Williamsburg and Richmond. Daughter Bramley works at University of North Carolina - Greensboro in student guidance and employer relations. That’s it for now. Thanks for caring and guiding ’67. Bill.”

As your class agent, I notice that we, as a group, are mostly slowing down in careers and work in general. There are some notable exceptions, as Bill Kiniry and L.F. Payne are mentioned above. Larry Rutherford, Tubby Wilkinson and others are also continuing in their respective careers. But more and more, I notice our family members are doing interesting things. Our grown children are making news with their own lives. Grandchildren are entering or finishing college, and many are making waves as they plan their own futures.

Many of our wives also have interesting careers or avocations. My point here is that publishing and promoting the news of our families is important and often more interesting than a listing of who had a hip replacement or some failing body part repaired/re-improved/improved by the newest amazing medical science.

Of course, I will report those also, but please brag on your kinfolks so I can share your pride in them with all.

Perry Ritenour: “I would sincerely appreciate it if you could include my note here in the next Alumni Review. Early this year, I received a message that our BR Chip Brooke was diagnosed with a serious health crisis that may have derived from his time in Vietnam. Sadly, it quickly took him from us. I was quite upset to hear this news. Chip and I had grown quite close these past few years. He and Jane recently visited us in our home in northern California.

We had a wonderful time talking about our days at the Institute and catching up on family and our busy lives since then. It was like old home week! Chip was a larger than life ‘super hero’ to me – a man of strong principles and great character with equally strong opinions about life. He was a classic Marine who stood tall and firm amid life’s many twists and turns.

He also represented what is best about a VMI man. He loved the Institute, as did his father and now his son, and personally continued the long family tradition of service to our alma mater. Chip was my dearest friend and VMI roommate, along with Doug Mills, and I will miss Chip with all my heart and hope all BRs

Class of 1967: Brother rats gathered for Tom Coughenour’s service last spring were, from left, Jan Abernathy, Dixie Walker, Andy Carter, Kent Easty and Terry Bowers ’68. J.I. Orrison was present but not pictured. will also remember his wonderful wife, Jane, in your prayers, for her loss. To Chip: ‘Rah Virginia Mil.’ Rest in peace, my brother. Perry.”

Terry Moore: “Just a note to let you know what is happening in my sphere of life.

“Beth and I are still scheduled to celebrate our 50th wedding anniversary by taking an Alaskan cruise (July 25-Aug. 7). I recently had another bladder cancer checkup, and nothing appears to be a hindrance at this point. I guess the second attempt does it. The checkup puts me in the remission stage as I will have checkups yearly now. The doctor still wants to check the PSA results for prostate cancer, as my latest was a 6.97. Now we are off to Alaska. We first went to Fairbanks and had a paddle-wheel steamer on the Chena River. It was very interesting seeing how the Chena Indians lived in such an environment. Then we went on to Denali, where we had a tundra wilderness tour into the huge Denali National Park. We rode a bus to the Stony Hill Overlook, 62 miles into the park. You can only do this by bus, as they do not allow automobiles. We saw lots of wildlife at a distance and were not chased by the bears,

Class of 1967: Jake de Steiguer on his great basin outback Oregon trek in 2018.

89

Class Notes

Class of 1967: Terry and Beth Moore saw the Mendenhall Glacier at a stop on their Alaska cruise. moose or caribou. Then we took the McKinley Explorer train from Denali to Anchorage for an overnight. It was a long narrated train ride with wonderful wilderness scenery. A simple overnight stay in Anchorage included dinner at the Cafe Paris steakhouse. The next day was another ride on the Anchorage/Seward Cruisetrain to Seward, this time through beautiful mountains and additional wildlife – this one with some majestic mountains with snow at the top and waterfalls and rivers. At the port, we boarded the Holland America ship, the Westerdam. The cruise took us from Seward to Glacier Bay, Haines, Juneau, Ketchikan and Vancouver while cruising the inside passage. The glaciers were spectacular. You can’t imagine how much ice is involved: 400 feet high by 2-plus miles wide by 14-plus miles long.

Gorgeous scenery, too. Can’t forget the whales, eagles and other wildlife we saw. The food (lots of wild salmon and halibut available all the time) and entertainment onboard the ship were super.

Of course, I gained a bit, as did everyone. We took advantage of several upgraded meals that outdid the regular fine meals served in the dining room.

A couple of Macallan or Dalwhinnie single malts after the dinners capped the evenings off well. We concluded the trip in Vancouver with a couple of extra nights, which was a good choice to get our land legs back. We completed the trip (our 50th wedding anniversary) with dinner at the Miku Japanese steakhouse restaurant. Absolutely on target to end a fine trip for the occasion. Now, we’re into our second 50 – well, maybe to 75 years – we’ll see what the Lord allows.”

Sent from Dr. B’s iPad Pro: “Jimmy Ferrell and his wife, Brenda, and I got a chance to spend a great afternoon together on the Norfolk waterfront when the USCGC Barque Eagle decided to moor at the Nauticus dock opposite my condo in Norfolk. It was on its annual cruise. Went aboard and met the ship’s doctor. Midshipmen looked snappy in their summer blues. Were we ever that young? BR Bruce Bodner.”

Jake DeSteiguer: “Here’s a short note. Land Rover buddies that I have been traveling with since 2004 in the Oregon and California outback took a short 1,000-mile trip to the extreme southeastern corner of Oregon to check out some offroad areas in preparation for a longer trip next summer; it will be a reprise of our 2004 trip to the Alvord Desert. I’ve found the keffiyeh/shemagh to be very useful headgear in the hot, dry deserts of the Great Basin. Cheers, Allen.”

Bo Traywick: “Jan, ‘Starlight on the Rails’ is available on order from the VMI bookstore, B&N, Amazon, etc. Book announcement will be coming out in the February VMI Alumni Review. I hope

Class of 1967: Class members gathered for a golf outing in Pinehurst, North Carolina, were, from left, kneeling, Tubby Wilkinson, Kip Jones, Robert Klink, Ken Chun and Jim Phlegar. Standing: Ruben Terry, Johnny Vaughan, Rick Irby, Jim Joyner, Carter Melton, Tom Gillette, Barry Hedquist, Kermit Quick, Mike Bagnulo, George Sanborn and Ted Mervosh.

90

to set up a signing sometime at VMI. Thanks for putting the word out! All the best, Bo.” Chuck Krebs: “J and J, good morning from Indian Land, South Carolina (aka South Charlotte). We have had a busy summer with trips to Cherokee, North Carolina; a riverboat cruise on Danube, Main and Rhine rivers; and then a trip to Vermont. I have photos, but they are still on our phones so will text a few to you later. I continue to get together with Brian/Chuck Malley, a close by neighbor. We try to make the Old Corps lunch with the Charlotte Chapter. That’s a quick catch up from Mya and myself. Best wishes, Chuck.”

Tom Engleman: (Tom and I were reviewing some family Civil War history and recent depredations on monuments in his area of West Virginia) “Interestin’ readin’ ya sent me ... for many of the Civil War participants, there was no political reason to fight. Theirs was simply a very human response to the threats to their families and homes; they were bloodied and some died, but they were never beaten or defeated in spirit. Amen.”

Ron Lowry: “Patsy and I spent five years living in Omaha, Nebraska, while I was in medical school and residency and this type of goodness – the story about townsfolk feeding soldiers on a train – was ordinary. We bought our first home there in an established neighborhood of 60-plus year olds, but I was never home and our older neighbors adopted us and taught us about lawn care – sod webworms and bill bugs – and gave us food, desserts, vegetables, etc. I did my family practice training in small towns like North Platte and will never forget the kindness of the salt of the earth Nebraskans. If not for horrific weather, we might still be living there. I had classmates from North Platte. Ron and Patsy.”

John Lee (on Hank Ratrie’s birthday): ”Here’s an image of Ratrie and me taken almost a quarter of a century ago after emerging from Windy Cove Cave (Millboro, Virginia), just across the road from George Phillip’s farm in 1994. According to Facebook, today is his birthday. It would take a lot to influence me to do that today. John.” Hank answered and said he still is an occasional caver. I added: “You two always were a bit over the edge, but John did not say never again.”

Chuck Keblusek (Chuck was getting ready for a further heart procedure): “Tomorrow, I do a nuclear stress test in preparation for the surgery. I’ve had several regular stress tests in the past and have surprised my cardiologist by staying on the thing for nine minutes. Though I have no

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1967: Arlene and Dan Wells visited the Cotswold Way in England. symptoms, I had some calcium on a recent heart CT, so he wanted to take it a step further with radioactive material injected during exercise. Will let you know how it goes. You mentioned that you needed a laugh; this may be one. I dreamt the other night that you and I were early rat roommates and the third in that room (we had five) was Barack Obama. I had a repeated problem sliding off my hayrack onto the floor and couldn’t master the art of tucking my dust sheet into the mattress before rolling it up. You were helpful, but Cadet Obama stood in the corner scratching his chin philosophizing and pontificating on the benefits of a dust sheet. When I woke up, I had to check my CPAP machine to make sure no one drugged me! Sure, it’s OK to mention this to others. There are many that have gone through much worse (i.e., Mike Miley). If I can be helpful to someone else in the class, I’m very willing to discuss or explain.”

Brenda Orrison got J.I.’s text to work when she and Joan finally made contact while my computer was out of action: “Max Toch stopped by for a few days after he dropped newly minted Second Lieutenant Charlie Toch at Fort Benning to begin his career as an infantry officer. (Charlie is a West Point graduate.) We toured northern Georgia and visited Camp Merrill (which Max observed had been turned into a country club); the Currahee Museum (‘Band of Brothers’ fame) and camp in Toccoa, Georgia; as well as the steam museum in Cummings, Georgia. Max finished the trip riding AMTRAK from Gainesville, Georgia, to Union Station in Washington, D.C.” Three more from Chuck Krebs: “Good evening to you both. We are on our way back home from Vermont. Went north for Mya’s very best friend and her husband’s 50th anniversary at their place in Windsor, Vermont. The party was a huge success; however, around midnight, Mya began to experience abdominal pain. This was Saturday

2018-Issue 4

over Sunday. She held out until Monday morning, and then we took her to Claremont, New Hampshire. She was ultimately diagnosed with appendicitis, which was operated on at Dartmouth Hospital in Hanover, New Hampshire.

She is doing very well abdominally – still some residual upper respiratory infection which she brought back from Europe and our river cruise.”

And on Toch’s sign: “I don’t recall any of the signs at Benning, but our Ranger class was the only military ceremonial parade performed for the pass in review ‘at the double time!’ Good stuff!”

“Really would like to be present for Bo’s book bash. Finally got him off the Civil War! More to the point, I recently got the opportunity to sail with him on his tug. Chuck.”

Doug Berry, U.S. Marine Corps sergeant major, on the “no trace remains” story: “Graduated Ranger School in November 1969. S/F and D/O. Doug.”

Don Brown after reading Rob Gates’ story: “I remember I use to fly charter flights to Dahlgren carrying Virginia Tech Instructors. They would teach classes at the Navy weapons center. I remember very well one day going to lunch with Robert and he showed me an area where they were shooting guns out over the bay. What a good story from Rob. I really enjoyed it. Regards, Don.” Parting shots: Rob Gates: “I was reading the latest Alumni Review and saw in your class notes that Jack Sheeran asked how many BRs have kissed the Blarney Stone. You can tell Jack that I have! We took our son, Sean, to Ireland as a high school graduation present.”

Dan Wells: “Arlene and I just completed the Cotswold Way in England. It is a 102-mile walk through the Cotswolds, traversing many quaint villages that were big into sheep in years past.”

Neil Schlussel: “Not much going on here. I have travel plans to Morocco in October and Japan in March. Neil.”

Pete Wells: “After a delightful week on the north end of Virginia Beach with both boys and their families, Karen and I headed to Cape May, New Jersey, for a long weekend at a bed-and-breakfast.

We stopped in to see Doug and Jane Taylor in Egg Harbor Township, and they joined us for dinner in Cape May Sunday.”

Jack Sheeran: “Jan, This spring brought the announcement of our daughter, Amy, that she is engaged to be married next June in Pennsylvania.

She is the first of our three to get engaged. The

boys have significant others but nothing on the horizon yet! As for travel, Patty and I took a short cruise to Bermuda in the spring for a short week.

Beautiful place! Been there before but never gets old. I still do some substitute teaching in my old school and still enjoy working with kids at that age.

Best to you and Joan, Jack.”

Joan and I are having a busier than usual fall as she is the now the president of the Atlanta Symphony Associates, which places her on the board of The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and the board of the famous Woodruff Arts Center. It is a great honor for her in recognition of her support of the arts.

We hope to see many of you this fall at a football game or the Institute Society Dinner in November.

Safe travels to all.

1968

Tom Hickey

I’ll open this edition of the notes with some numbers from our 50th Reunion. As best as Dean Kershaw (Fairfield, Virginia) can figure it, we had a total attendance of 291 that comprised 151 brother rats, six widows and 134 guests. Several other brother rats registered but were unable to attend at the last minute. As for the campaign, at its close June 30, the total was $14,061,268.10. I think everyone should feel great about both the reunion’s social and the campaign aspects. I know I do. Now, your notes.

Jack Long (Augusta, Georgia): “I am still practicing law and trying all sorts of cases. On the homefront, my wife of 47 years, Benita, decided to return to school and she recently received her Doctor of Divinity degree from Duke University. Benita continues to write Christian based books, with her first two books, ‘Come to the Table’ and ‘Share the Bounty,’ continuing to sell. Our daughter, Sallie, just graduated magna cum laud from Georgetown Medical School, and she got her first choice of a residency program in New York City with a joint program in ENT (otolaryngology) at Columbia and at Cornell. Benita and I both enjoyed our stay in Lexington, and hopefully we will all make it to the next one.”

91

Class Notes

Class of 1968: While in Lexington for their 50th Reunion, Dean Kershaw, Steve Powers and Paul Hebert had breakfast with Lt. Gen. John Knapp Sr. ’54 at the Lexington Restaurant.

Knapp formerly taught at VMI and was superintendent of the Institute from 1989-95.

George Sebren (Niceville, Florida): “Sorry to miss the 50th. We got back from an annual Viking River cruise in time to greet hurricane Alberto. The storm put off our anniversary celebration but all was well on the beach. Alberto was a ‘wuss,’ so fortunately there was little to no damage in the area. Our big ship Viking River cruise was from Athens to Venice. Great scenery and good food! Only gained 5 pounds. Good thing I had lost 8 before the trip. Looking forward to next year’s Viking River cruise on their smaller ships. Destinations to be determined.”

In a later email, George wrote: “I continue to work on the golf swing. Wish I had started years ago, but it’s fun now. My son, Hall, is now east of the Mississippi at Shaw Air Force Base. He’ll be the maintenance group commander after being in Korea in the same job. I’m going up for his change of command ceremony later in July. He’s on his way up the ladder.”

Hal Switzer (Blanco, Texas): “After the reunion, we pulled our camper trailer from Lexington to our daughter’s house in northern Virginia for a few days, then to relatives in North Carolina, then home by way of south Florida and south Louisiana. We continued traveling until the end of May. Now, we’re in the practice mode for a hike that we are taking in Scotland in September and not doing much else. We had a fine time at the reunion and wish to commend once again everybody that participated in putting it together. We are trying to get together a Texas mini reunion sometime in the spring, but that has yet to resolve itself. It was really great seeing everybody.”

Steve Powers (Malvern, Pennsylvania): “In addition to all of the special events (at the reunion), I had the opportunity to have breakfast

92

with General John Knapp ’54, Dean Kershaw and Paul Hebert (Steamboat Springs, Colorado) at the Lexington Restaurant. I wanted to thank General Knapp once again for helping a basketball player get his civil engineering degree, especially since I was sitting with Dean and Paul, the two of the top students in our civil engineering department.

“Curtis Beach (Salem, Virginia) and I had a chance to travel to North Carolina to visit with one of our teammates, Mike Manis ’70. Mike has been in a wheelchair for 20 years with multiple sclerosis. He is in good spirits and very much enjoys his wife, Terry, and many grandchildren. I also had the opportunity to visit with our Coach Gary McPherson and his wife, Peggy, in Morgantown, West Virginia. They are both having some health issues but were able to join me for dinner with their daughter-in-law, Patty. The McPhersons lost their son, Chris, last year after a long battle with cancer. Coach still tells great stories about John Kemper (Richmond, Virginia), Curtis Beach, Ralph Wright ’69, Peyton Brown ’69, Johnny Mitchell ’69, Mike Manis ’70 and Mike Frick.

“My wife and I will be in Sun Valley, Idaho, this summer with our grandchildren. I do a little fly fishing, and perhaps someday I will actually catch a trout.”

Tom Coffey (Wytheville, Virginia): “The memorial service at the reunion for the 50 who have gone before us was truly moving. I enjoyed talking to Bucky Miller (Wilton, Connecticut), Don Lynch (Virginia Beach, Virginia), and Steve Hubbard (Maplecrest, New York), and also took the opportunity to chat up a few current cadets, who came across as very accomplished and focused – and also very young! I was never that

young! As for family news, Ilona and I are gearing up for a return trip in July to Penang, Malaysia, where our daughter, Kelly, teaches chemistry at the Dalat International Christian School. This will also give us a chance to reacquaint ourselves with our grandchildren, ages 10 and 7.”

Bob Mills (Miramar Beach, Florida): “We moved to Miramar Beach, Florida, near Destin.

Rita and I are enjoying retirement. We travel a little and enjoy the British Virgin Islands.”

Joe Petitta (Safety Harbor, Florida): “The greatest birthday gift was the opportunity to attend the 50th Reunion this year. There are no gifts better than reuniting with many BRs and reminiscing about the Old Corps. While I would have loved to have my old roommate, Paul Simmons, be there this time, I thought about and spoke about him often with Peggy Simmons, who accompanied Diane and me to the reunion.

“Since I retired as a litigation consultant in 2016, we have been spending our time here in Florida doing what Floridians do. We try to travel as often as possible. We are fortunate to have both our daughters and grandchildren right here in the Tampa area.”

John Augustine (St. Petersburg, Florida): “Everyone said they had fun and wished it lasted longer. Irvin Grodsky (Mobile, Alabama) told me he regrets not having attended earlier reunions.

Sorry that I was unable to attend, but it was due to the extenuating family obligations.”

Mike Gompf (North Chesterfield, Virginia): “The first part of June has been terrific. Following the wonderful reunion, I met with Billy Seargeant (Fredericksburg, Virginia) several times while he was working as the inspecting engineer on the expansion of the Virginia War Memorial. We had lunch together during those visits and revisited many memories from VMI and Vietnam. Billy also helped me complete my old Vietnam combat uniform by supplying items that, until that time, I could not find. I look forward to visiting him again while he is still working at the memorial.

“After my visits with Billy, Chandler Williams (Midlothian, Virginia) invited me to his place at Wintergreen June 4-5 and then again June 18-19.

During our June 4 visit, Marvin Thews (Roanoke, Virginia) joined us. We played the beautiful and scenic golf courses of Devils Knob and Stoney Creek. As you can imagine, one of group played well. On the 18th, Chandler and I joined Chandler’s brother, Randolph Williams ’66,

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes and Evan Roberts ’18 (captain of the VMI golf team). Again, we played both courses and were amazed at the power and control Evan had. Both visits were fantastic, and boy, did we eat well.

Chandler is a super chef.

“In between the Wintergreen excursions, Chandler, Rich Wallach (The Plains, Virginia), Tom Burnett (Midlothian, Virginia) and I made up a foursome in the 2018 VMI Richmond Club golf outing at Magnolia Green. While there we met up with John Kemper (Richmond, Virginia), Howard Donald (Richmond, Virginia) and Dick Wise (Richmond, Virginia). The Class of 1968 was well represented. Our foursome tied for second, and Tom Burnett won the closest to the pin.

Pretty good for a group of 70-year-old citizensoldiers. As you can see, I am really enjoying retired life.”

Ron Stultz (Williamsburg, Virginia): “Moved out of metro Washington to Williamsburg, Virginia, in 2018. We are just finishing the 39th meeting of the tribes (four children, their spouses, grandkids and friends at Rehoboth, Delaware).

Still active physically and mentally (new home repairs, updates). Check out www.Ronstultz.com for shared knowledge, music, photography and personal writings.”

Dean Kershaw: “I’ll be returning to VMI as an adjunct professor of civil engineering again this fall, team-teaching with Woody Sadler ’66.

We’re expecting 69 rats in five sections. A growth of almost 40 percent over last year! Bodes well for civil engineering at VMI. On the project front, I’m still working on launching infrastructure projects in Kuwait, Morocco and the Philippines.

Slow going, but still positive.

“Nancylee and the kids bought me a 10-foot kayak. I’m trying to keep up with Larry Ryan (Riga, Latvia). I won’t be camping in the boondocks in 30-degree weather like he does. But I can do more pushups and situps and run farther than he can. Hooah!”

My roommate Jack Falzone (Crystal Lake, Illinois) responded to my birthday email with a phone call. After a long and delightful conversation, I asked him to send me additional information for these notes. He wrote that he and Elaine have been married for 50 years (something I knew, because I was at their New Jersey wedding in summer 1968). They have three daughters, Jill, Jamie and Jaclyn, and four grandsons, Jared (18), Caleb (15), Logan (15) and Magnus (5). Jack and Elaine live in Crystal Lake, Illinois, but winter in

2018-Issue 4

Mesa, Arizona. After 34 years, Jack retired from Baxter International in July 2010.

Mike Smythers (Chesapeake, Virginia): “The next adventure on my list is to walk about 150 miles on Spain’s Camino de Santiago (The Way of St. James) in September. I know it won’t be easy. In my training regimen, I have had the company of BR Chips McCallum (Norfolk, Virginia) on several hikes. On a recent hike, we climbed Old Rag Mountain in Shenandoah National Park, including the boulder scramble. Almost killed us! A very long day, which I promised myself I’d never do again. It’s ‘no country for old men.’ My sons, Michael and James Smythers ’97, plan to meet me as I finish my Camino adventure at the Cathedral de Santiago in Spain.

Just hope I don’t arrive on a bus. Carol and I are looking forward to Christmas in Bucharest, Romania, with our two grandsons.”

Howard Chapman (Mount Pleasant, South Carolina): “I came off the planning commission in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, last fall after eight years. That was a lot of work, but we kept the town out of court most of the time! I am still a major in the South Carolina State Guard working with the National Guard as a member of the engineering command. So far this year we have been lucky not to have any natural disasters to have to deploy for.

“The South Carolina Section of ITE named one of their scholarships after me in December 2017. It was a real surprise. A great honor.

“I recently traveled to Colonial Williamsburg to tour the site and spend time with Jim and Susan Henry (Williamsburg, Virginia). We had a wonderful visit and even got in some golf. Susan Henry is a real pro on the golf course. Jim is pretty good, too. They were great hosts. I do get to see Guy and Gloria Wilson (Charlotte, North Carolina) from time to time on their visits to their home away from home here in Mount Pleasant.

“Unless we get any natural disasters this fall, I will be attending all University of South Carolina home football games and four away games. Go Gamecocks!”

Jack Bareford (Swainsboro, Georgia): “I am still the president of the Emanuel County Development Authority here in Swainsboro, Georgia.

I’m in my ninth year now. I am the longest sitting economic developer they have ever had. I have been doing economic development work for 21 years since retiring from the Army. Although we only have 23,000 in the county and around

Class of 1968: George and Kay Sebren celebrating their anniversary at the Beach Walk Café, Fort Walton Beach, Florida, May 31, 2018.

7,500 in the city, we are extremely proactive in economic development. We have seven industrial parks with almost 1,500 acres total. It is very busy right now, as we are putting in infrastructure in our two newest parks. I do not plan on retiring any time soon.

“Patti and I were looking at the South Carolina coast for a retirement home when I finally retire.

About four months ago, we decided we would stay in Swainsboro, as we have totally renovated our home here and, after 20 years in the house, are putting in a swimming pool! Supposedly to be used year-round for low impact water aerobics and swimming. I think our 7-year-old grandson will enjoy it, also.

“Jack Jr. is still general manager of the Best Buy in Charleston, South Carolina. He also has his own business that he does on his off time. Lee, my middle son, teaches online courses for Savannah College of Art and Design and is a librarian at Georgia Southern University - Savannah. He is completing his second master’s degree in library science so he can move up in the field. Taylor, my youngest, teaches for the Atlanta Art Institute. Patti is a skilled artist and does all types of artwork.

She stays busy with that and letting our two pups, Pickles and Olive, in and out the back door.”

Bill Carter (Raleigh, North Carolina): “Susan and I spent a week at Figure Eight Beach with family and had a great time. We have three very active grandsons: John (11), Wells (8) and Carter (4). Susan and I then spent two weeks at Atlantic Beach recuperating. I am having a spinal fusion Aug. 15, so I’ll be rehabbing for a few months.”

In response to a birthday greeting, Dave Law (Reston, Virginia) wrote: “Wow, 72 – how time flies!”

93

Class Notes Bob Fletcher (Edgewater, Maryland): “Kim and I are staying busy with our consulting work. We have a couple of projects that are exciting and groundbreaking for us. Climate change is bringing even more attention to the probability of extreme weather and how we cope with it. Much of that will deal with leadership and identifying the right kind of leader who can function effectively in the volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous disaster operating environment. That will be our focus moving forward. My first disaster work was with the Corps of Engineers in 1969 in Nelson and Rockbridge County, Virginia, in the aftermath of Hurricane Camille. So, I have been doing this stuff almost 50 years. I started readiness consulting in 1999 after retiring from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the federal government after 30 years. I still love this work! Kim has been doing similar work for more than 35 years. She works part time for CNA Corp in Washington, D.C. “We are beginning to downsize, or rightsize, our lives. We are owned by our stuff, as are many in our cohort. We are trimming it down to be more manageable. Living on the water with boats and jet skis and crab traps and house maintenance is a lot of work. I am getting a workout in about three or four times a week. She is doing Pilates two or three times a week, too.”

Val Sledd (Poquoson, Virginia): “All is well with Connie and me. We had a great time seeing everyone at our 50th Reunion. On Oct.25, 2018, my Ring Figure date and I will celebrate 49 years of marriage. In early June, we went on a Viking Rhine River cruise including a pre-cruise stay in Amsterdam and a post-cruise extension in Lucerne. We also recently became first time grandparents. Our daughter, Valerie, who lives in Suffolk, gave birth to a girl (Ella Grace) July 25, 2018. She has her hands full, since she is also pursuing a Ph.D. in education at Old Dominion University. Our son, Rick, is living in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

He is a systems engineer and a Lead Associate with Booze Allen Hamilton.”

Walt Jeffress (Fairfax, Virginia): “Suellen and I are headed for a two-week trip to Southwest Ireland in early September. It is a trip sponsored by the Army-Navy Country Club, where we have been members of for over 30 years. I will be playing golf most days, while

94

Suellen will be touring the countryside. Suellen will play a few rounds of golf near the end of the trip. We begin our stay at the Doonbeg Resort and later transfer to the Europe Hotel in Killarney. I will be playing Lahinch Golf Club, Doonbeg Golf Links, Killarney Golf Club, Ballybunion Golf Club, Tralee Golf Club, Old Head of Kinsale and Waterville Golf Club.

Last year, we toured Scotland and played the Old Course at St. Andrews and eight other famous courses around Scotland. Finally, Suellen and I thoroughly enjoyed attending our very successful 50th Reunion in April.”

1969

Walter Judd

Greetings, Brother Rats and Friends of the 50th Reunion Class of 1969.

We are working hard to contact and invite all members of the Class of ’69 to our reunion weekend in April 2019. Members of various committees are trying to reach every member of the class as we foster the brother rat spirit and gain commitments for participation in both reunion weekend activities and fundraising for our big check. If you have not talked with a BR in recent days or heard from the VMI Alumni Association, let me know and I will get you caught up in short order.

With all the communicating with and calling of BRs by other BRs in anticipation of the 50th Reunion, we have discovered some sad news. Mike Santoro sent a note and got a reply from a neighbor in California of Charles

L. “Chuck” Durante. Mike followed up with the neighbor and learned that Chuck died in September 2017 in northern California. There was no obit, as Chuck’s wife, Lisa (34 years together), died nine days later, and they left no family. Chuck spent a year with us and then attended the University of Redlands. He later entered the U.S. Marine Corps and suffered a severe injury to an eye during PLC training.

Although he was disabled from the incident, he worked in real estate and still enjoyed skydiving with more than 2,000 jumps.

In another inquiry after speaking with Charlie Bryan, I talked with the U.S. Military Academy at West Point Alumni Association representative and discovered that three of our BRs entered West Point after a year at VMI. Col. Jim Hayes was carried on our books as having died, but that info was incorrect. I got a nice message from Jim telling me he traveled widely these days and would try to attend the reunion.

It was apparent he left us after a year, graduated from West Point in 1970 and completed a career in the Army. We also checked and noted Tom Hood and Peter Jones had also gone on to West Point. After another quick check, we found an obit for Col. Peter H. Jones of Blacksburg, Virginia. Peter died in May 2015 after finishing West Point in 1970, serving for 30 years in the Army (both active duty and reserve) and then running his own manufacturing company.

Peter saw action in both Vietnam and Desert Storm. We found no info on BR Hood.

After checking out West Point, we realized we needed to check the U.S. Naval Academy, as well. It turns out BR Eddie Williamson was part of our class for a year before heading to Annapolis and time there before embarking on a Navy career. I sent an invitation to Ed but have not yet heard from him.

Class of 1969: “Two variations on a theme,” said class agent Walt Judd about the photo submitted by Marty Parks from western Virginia.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Bob Waldo, reunion Social Committee chairman, called a planning meeting for May 30 at Colonial Williamsburg’s Lodge. Dave Prugh, Knox Hubard, Dick Camp, Jamie and Jody Totten, Ron Wall, Rudy and Judy Segaar, Larry Seekford, Gary Braswell, Bob Heely and Walt Judd all attended and discussed the details of our reunion weekend. We anticipate a busy time from Thursday to Sunday. Plan to be there!

On the same evening in May, many BRs and wives attended a mini reunion party and supper at the CW Lodge. Bob and Susan Alexander, Dan Gibson, Dick and Cheryl Camp, Art Wilson, Gary and Nancy Braswell, Bob and Lush Heely, David Hagan, W.I.P. and Barbara Priest, Mike and Martha Santoro, Bob and Lynda Flowers, John Robins, Bobby Watts, Larry and Elizabeth Seekford, Ron and Betsy Wall, Geoff and Frances Taylor, Jamie and Jody Totten, Bob and Ruth Waldo, Walt and Beverly Judd, John and Jane Ishon, Ken Fleming, Dennis and Anne Witt, Ron and Linda Stead, and Knox Hubard. Mike and Martha Santoro stayed with us for the evening, and we all enjoyed getting caught up on many years of living in and out of the U.S. The Santoros had a multiyear stint with an American firm helping an Austrian subsidiary in Graz, Austria, and brought back many good stories about living and traveling in Europe. Susan Alexander, a neighbor and wife of BR Bob, my dentist, told me she enjoyed seeing Dan Gibson, a high school friend of Bob’s in Hampton, for the first time in many, many years. My wife and I got to meet Dick and Cheryl Camp and heard she had worked at all of the old favorite department and stylish women’s stores in Richmond.

I sent an invitation to Jess Powell and got the newsy reply: “Becky and I will leave for England May 28 to visit our daughter who married an Englishman and has lived in Brighton for 12 years. We will spend a couple of weeks with our two English grandkids and then go on to a cruise around the Greek islands for three weeks. We have been going to England and Europe once a year since she has been there.

I plan to be at the 50th and look forward to hearing about the plans. Thanks for all the work you and the committee are doing. I still operate a transitional home for homeless men and I am board chair of the Cleveland County rescue mission. I have five rental homes that I bought

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1969: Beth Long, wife of Jim Long, met basketball player Cadet Tyler Creammer ’20 at the Keydet Club leadership outing dinner last June.

Class of 1969: Tom Morris visited Spain and the western Mediterranean, including Malaga, Spain, in summer 2018.

to rent to people who ordinarily couldn’t rent a house. I spend time with my other two married daughters and grandkids. This very pleasant schedule has been going on for the last 10 years.”

I joined others at the Keydet Club Leadership Outing Friday, June 1, 2018. Many of us ate dinner Thursday evening at the Lexington Golf & Country Club. At the golf course Friday, Gary Mackey, Tom Catlett, and I joined Ran Hamner ’62 for one team, while Jim and Beth Long plus Art and Becky Bushey made up another. Bunny Paulette played with Ralph Costen ’70 and other KC leaders. The LongBushey team did well again and won the tougher division. Bunny and team finished second in that competition. Those of us oldsters with higher handicaps had a top 10 finish but were not in the money. Later that evening, Dave and Susan Prugh and Ron and Betsy Wall joined us for supper at Moody Hall. As I sat with the Longs discussing life, we were joined by VMI basketball player Cadet Tyler Creammer ’20, only 6 feet 10 inches and size 18 shoes. Jim snapped a picture of Beth with Tyler, and there is more than a foot of difference between the two. It is fun to get fans and players together in informal situations.

June 14-16, my wife and I traveled to Lexington to the annual class agents’ and alumni chapter representatives’ gathering to talk about doing our jobs better. We met many old friends and welcomed a few new ones. We ushered in a

new president of the VMI Alumni Association and exchanged many ideas about better communication between alumni at their homes and communities and the staff in Lexington. Bob and Lush Heely joined us for the dinner meal Friday night and heard a rousing speech by Jerry Acuff ’71, a talented motivational speaker and raconteur.

On June 19, the senior VMI grads and friends met in Williamsburg for lunch. Drew Brantley, Dan Gibson, Tom Morris and Walt Judd met and enjoyed a meal and good conversation with others. We had a VMI father, a Hokie himself, sitting with us, and we all recounted the few football wins of VMI against Virginia Tech. It was painful and exciting to both sides to remember all those games.

On June 27, with the home ballpark of the Norfolk Tides in the background, nine of us ’69 guys met for lunch and good conversation.

Drew Brantley and Glenn White cooked burgers and dogs while Gary Mackey and Gene Beale kept the banter flowing. I think those two almost got the football team’s woes worked out with Lee Barnes and T.O. Palmer. W.I.P. Priest and Bob Heely kept telling funny stories as we all enjoyed our time together. T.O. was mostly recovered from his hip replacement surgery and had driven up from the Outer Banks for the time.

W.I.P. got longest drive credit, as he crossed one more river than Drew, Glenn and I did.

On June 29, Bob Heely and I played golf with Mark Prentice ’74 to raise scholarship

95

Class Notes

Class of 1969: Glenn White, Walt Judd, Wip Priest, Bob Heely, T.O. Palmer, Drew Brantley, Lee Barnes, Gene Beale and Gary Mackey gathered at Harbor Park in Norfolk, Virginia, June 27, 2018.

Class Agent Walt Judd said, “There was a rumor of a baseball game nearby, but we never made it inside the park.” money for the Williamsburg Club at Kingsmill on the River Course. We shot a 66 and were in the middle of the pack. Mark is a retired Air Force C-130 pilot in Williamsburg and full of “been there” stories.

In July, Jim and Beth Long spent time in Pinehurst, North Carolina, playing golf on vacation. Jim met a man there who noted his VMI connection and told him he had a picture to share with him. Later, Jim got a photo of a golf cart from a golf club in California with a VMI Keydet Club decal and VMI-decorated golf bag. Jim told his friend, “I know who owns that one!” Jim Chapman, former KC president and winter resident of the California high desert, readily admitted it was his.

I have been working with Charlie Bryan on entering the survey results into the computer and checking all of the statistics related to our class. I was able to add to the Matriculation list a second list of graduates and their degrees. It, too, brought some surprises. It appears some BRs finished their degrees after more than four years at VMI and others attended for four years but did not complete their degrees. I render the hand salute to the 15 BRs who took a little extra time and did complete their degrees at VMI. When all was tallied up, we had 56 history graduates, 53 in biology, 46 in civil engineering, 36 in economics, 27 in English, 15 in chemistry, 12 in electrical engineering, six with a Bachelor of Science degree in math and five with Bachelor of Arts degree in math, four in modern languages

96

and three in physics. Twenty-seven biology majors earned doctorates (51 percent!), while nine chemistry grads earned doctoral degrees (60 percent!). We were a very competitive and smart group of students. By adding in all the law degrees and advanced degrees earned by members of our class (both graduates of VMI and other schools after leaving VMI), we have, by my count, 90 BRs with a doctoral level degree and nearly 150 master’s degrees among us. I guess all that marching did not stifle the urge and opportunity for many of us to excel academically.

Facebook search showed several pictures taken by Roger Call on his visit to the great American West: Natural parks in all their beauty and color. Marty Parks began a discussion of license plates with pictures of two of his. Scott Rhodes then sent me a picture of a North Carolina plate featuring the VMI logo and letters “VM” in bold letters. He was considering getting one and thought others in North Carolina might like to join the group displaying where they went to school. Tom Jones sent pictures of his most recent pilgrimage to the site of the heroic actions of Jon Daniels ’61 in Alabama.

Tom leads the VMI group each August and welcomes alumni of all cultures to come with him to the celebration of overcoming adversity and heartbreak. I noted that Mike Santoro and Joe Lynch had teamed up to place a brick with the names of our four Vietnam killed in action BRs at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond this summer. That action drew plenty of praise and appreciation by other BRs. The noncompetition by photojournalists Jim Campbell and Don Mercer of flowers and small summer items has been truly terrific this summer. Don’s daughters and grandchildren often join the mix of varied subjects. Those two have real talent of observing and then capturing the essence of beauty in natural objects.

Speaking of beautiful items: You should have seen my supper dish at a local Greek restaurant in Richmond recently. Rockfish with olives, Feta cheese and layers of tomatoes. Yummy!

My wife and I heard about the place from Tom and Gail Morris and made reservations. While we were eating near the front window, we saw Val and Lorie Southall leave and cross the street to their car. They had been at the other side of the same restaurant when we arrived, and we did not see them. Val later told me they

like to go early and eat at the bar. Wine and mezze were the best items to order. The most fun in the sighting of a live Judge Southall was that Charlie Bryan had showed me a YouTube video earlier that same day in which a much younger Val was featured prominently greeting the rats of 1971 our 2nd Class year. Charlie and I met for lunch that day at his home to review the surveys we have been collecting. We have more than 70 responses so far and expect to hear from many more BRs before our reunion next April. Charlie showed me his first ideas on how to present the data collected and analysis done on the survey responses.

BRs, by the time you read these notes, your two committees will be well into planning our reunion in April 2019. The Social Committee led by Bob Waldo is still seeking inputs, but since our next meeting is in September, most of the weekend activities will be set. I will show a proposed schedule further down in the notes.

Jamie Totten and the fundraising arm of our reunion committee will also be well into the collection of gifts and donations. Essentially, you are being asked to give in one of two ways: Current assets of money or property or delayed gifts that come to VMI on your passing. You will be asked to pledge gifts for the next five years or at your death, and those gifts will then be totaled for the amount seen on the big check at our reunion parade. We have already been told BRs have already given land to VMI, pledged streams of cash (monthly, quarterly or annually) or planned to use funds from their RMD accounts for scholarships or current programs at VMI. See Jamie, me or the Foundation at VMI for more details on how to use your required minimum distributions from your IRAs to benefit the class and VMI. We have established both participation and dollar amount goals and dearly hope you will play a part in the process.

As mentioned above, I now give a quick summary of the reunion weekend activities. While the scheduled activities begin Friday morning, April 26, 2019, many of us plan to show up Wednesday or Thursday of the week to begin our fun. For the fit and willing, join Tom Jones who has indicated he wants to climb House Mountain (like the newly minted rats do!) earlier in the week. There are a couple of ways to do this, and the views from the top are spectacular. Many others will show up at the motels

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Thursday afternoon and begin conversations with friends not seen for long times in the hospitality room located in the Holiday Inn Express in east Lexington. The registration table will be manned Thursday afternoon, but there are no other planned activities that day. Friday is sports day with several activities for BRs: Golf, sporting clays, tennis, biking and shopping will all be available in the morning. Sign up on the VMI alumni site for your choices. Friday afternoon, Charlie Bryan will lead a symposium on our participation in the Vietnam War with moderation by U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Jack Mountcastle ’65 and participation of class members from each service. That event will be conducted in the new Center for Leadership and Ethics building called Marshall Hall midafternoon. Friday night is the dinner provided by the VMI Foundation in Marshall Hall and will feature VMI’s tribute to us as a class. Saturday is a busy day with the photo on the library steps, our big parade (we are the featured class) and Old Yells in the Old Barracks courtyard. The schedule for afternoon activities is not completely firm at this time but should include tours of the post (new buildings and athletic fields), tours of the museum and/ or archives with Col. Keith Gibson ’77 and Dr. Charlie Bryan, shopping downtown, or visiting homes in the Natural Bridge area for Garden Week. There will be an opportunity to eat lunch in Crozet Hall for anyone wishing to experience that. There is a new caterer on post this year and reports so far have been lavish in praise. Saturday afternoon might include a live concert of rock music in the tent behind the motel before the informal barbecue dinner that evening. Sunday is pack up time for most but might also include a scheduled tour of the New Market Park for those heading north on I-81 in the afternoon.

That is it! We will be busy but not too busy and there will be plenty of varied things to do for BRs and their better halves. Plan to be there!

If you have not yet checked out our class webpage at www.vmi69.com or the Facebook group, do so today. Send a current picture of yourself to Jim Campbell so folks can recognize you at the reunion. It may come as a surprise to you, but some BRs have changed shape a little since 1969. Some BRs now have even shorter haircuts than before. Have some fun and visit the pages.

In the spirit, Walt

2018-Issue 4

1970

Warren Grasty

Unfortunately, I have to begin with sad news on two fronts. First, in June I received a note from Sherry Waterman saying that Gerry died March 26. Gerry was a 5-year cancer survivor, but early this year he was diagnosed with advanced COPD and given a two-month prognosis. Although they had lived in Tallahassee for years, he wanted to go back to the Austin, Texas, area to spend his remaining time with their daughter, three grandchildren and two of his three brothers. Gerry was a retired Air Force pilot and had subsequently worked for several organizations in the Tallahassee area as head of their safety programs. About the same time, I found out that Chip and Debi Humphrey’s son, Frank, died in his sleep from heart arrhythmia at age 45. Frank and his wife, Christine, lived in Washington state. It is extremely sobering to realize how our lives can be totally upended so unexpectedly. Please keep Sherry, Debi and Chip in your thoughts and prayers.

The first weekend in June, I attended the annual Keydet Club Leadership Outing in Lexington. Joining in the festivities this year were Herb Braun; Bob Copty; Ralph Costen; Steve Craddock; John and Carole Flemming; Bill Gearhart and his brother, Jim ’71; and Gordon Williams. The golf, tennis and buffet dinner at Moody Hall were exceptional, as always.

As most of you know, Bill Huffman was involved in a serious biking accident in June and had to undergo partial hip replacement. He was caught in a summer shower toward the end of a bike ride and was almost home when it happened. He says his neighbor’s security cameras caught all the action and sounded a little disappointed that this hasn’t yet appeared on ESPN. As this goes to press, Bill just met with his surgeon who said that his recovery is going about as well as could be expected and that Bill can start working out on a stationary bike. He has been at his club chipping and putting and expects to be able to play golf next month. Bill really appreciates all of the phone calls, emails and cards he has received from brother rats.

Class of 1970: Class members gathered for a VMI weekend at the Costens’ home in Ocean Isle were, from left, Herb Braun, Peel Dillard, Dick Marshall, Lee Moon, Ralph Costen and Lew Reynolds.

Staying with the accident theme, Bill Scherer posted on the VMI’70 Facebook page that he had recently sold his ZX-14 motorcycle, “The Spirit,” on which he set three world and four U.S. land speed records over the years at the Bonneville Speed Flats, some exceeding 200 mph. Bill began motorcycling during summer 1967 while attending the VMI summer session for “gifted students.” He brought his brother’s little Honda 90 motorcycle for getting around town. A few days later, he traded bikes for the afternoon with a fellow brother rat, whose name he can’t recall, who had a big, heavy Harley 1200. Hearing about a party that night in Buena Vista, he grabbed fellow “gifted student” Bill Williams (aka Bill No. 2), and together, they took off into the night on the big bike. Unfortunately, when they came to the two lane road leading into Buena Vista, a drunken driver crossed the center line in his pickup truck and hit the Bills head on. Luckily, because of their strenuous physical conditioning only the Rat Line can give, they both came out alive. Bill No. 1 suffered a broken femur and wrist and had some teeth knocked out, while Bill No. 2 flew off the rear of the bike onto the hood of the truck, where he safely slid off to the ground totally unharmed. After the shock wore off, Bill No. 2 began laughing hysterically. In pain and bleeding on the ground, Bill No. 1 asked him what was so funny. Bill No. 2 reached into the front of his jeans, pulled out a full pint of Scotch and exclaimed, “It didn’t break, it didn’t break,” whereupon both Bills partook of said scotch before the ambulance arrived. No wonder Bill No. 1 doesn’t want to remember who lent him the Harley.

97

Class Notes

Class of 1970: Class members attending the wedding of John and June Bailey’s son, Patrick, near Luray, Virginia, in August 2018 were, from left, Warren and Liz Grasty, Jim and Judy Mawyer, John and June Bailey, A.C. and Beth Arnn, Charlie and Margaret Walker and Taylor and Laura Mawyer ’01.

Anyway, now Bill gets his kicks out of flying his Cessna T-210. Also, after years of hard work, he has finally released his feature thriller, “House on Rodeo Gulch,” to the public, and it is now available for viewing on the internet at www.HouseonRodeoGulch.com.

Regarding accidents yet to happen, Jesse Glidewell said that he and Bobbye, looking for something different to do, recently heliskied the Tordrillo Mountains in Alaska, which you probably already know are a small mountain range in the Matanuska-Susitna and Kenai Peninsula Boroughs in the south-central region of Alaska, approximately 75 miles west-northwest of Anchorage. The area is being expanded, so they actually had guides mapping their runs. Or was it the FBI? Also living on the edge is Artie Pates, who celebrated his 70th birthday with the female rock group Dead Deads. (Yes, it’s true. I am simply not creative enough to make up stuff

Class of 1970: Artie Pates celebrated his 70th birthday with the rock band the Dead Deads.

98

like this.) You probably remember their hit tunes, namely ... Anyway, it seems that Artie had a great time. Of course, Artie always has a great time.

Recently, I had a very nice phone conversation with Craig Lewis. Having grown up in Palo Alto, California, he transferred to Stanford after our 3rd Class year, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Science degree. After four years in the Army, he spent much of his working career with IBM in hardware, software and program management.

Craig said the values of teamwork and personal integrity he learned at VMI really helped him throughout his career. He still does some consulting from his home in Lake Tahoe but also has a home in Appleton, Wisconsin, to be closer to his older son, a physician in Appleton, and his daughter in Minneapolis and their families. All totaled, he has six grandchildren.

It seems that Ned Haley has already planted the seed for his return to the “instaroot” for our 50th Reunion.

I also had a nice email exchange with Marcus Gold recently. Marc is pondering retirement from the ministry since his small congregation in western North Carolina continues to shrink.

If so, he and Carol will probably end up staying in North Carolina to be near her family. I had forgotten that he was a 5-year man, sharing a room in New Barracks the first semester with Bob Randall. Marc was actually the topranked AFROTC cadet during that fall semester. Although he was in the Flight Instruction Program, he couldn’t get in the flying hours he needed, so he had to settle for being a B-52

navigator upon commissioning – the alternative being sitting in a nuclear missile silo in North Dakota. His mama didn’t raise no fool, double negative notwithstanding.

And now, this missive from Chad Lash: “I went to the local rat send-off today to escort my nephew, Glen Lash, who will be joining the rat mass two weeks from today. Glen did some fine networking while I spoke with Howie DeWolf at length for the first time in, uh, 48 years. The time just melted away. He came to support Glen, as well, because they attend the same parish. Good time. Looking forward to visiting Glen during the Dark Ages when he needs it the most. Also note I did not show any attitude while Glen was choosing colleges, neither encouraging nor discouraging. Don’t you think that shows some maturity on my part?

Huh?” Mature or not, Chad promises to make our 50th Reunion.

And over Harrisonburg way, Don Crawford reports that he officially retired July 15 but has been keeping busy. He and Lois just returned from a week at Quaker Camp Opequon, near Brucetown, Virginia, where Lois was a cook and Don did maintenance stuff. They even shared a tent there, and just like every FTX at VMI, it rained most days. He says, “The kids were great, and it is a good time to be with the future leaders of our country. If BRs are looking for a great summer camping experience for their grandkids, check out the Baltimore Yearly Meeting Quaker Camping Program.”

Speaking of future leaders of our country, the Valley Chapter of the Alumni Association, whose president is our own Cameron Seay, hosted a rat send-off party for the incoming rat class members from our area. Don met with five very self-assured young men and women who will make a contribution to their class, the Corps and, someday, our country. Don and Lois will be leaving in mid-August to spend time with family and friends in Wisconsin for several weeks. Other upcoming travel plans are to spend the weeks surrounding Thanksgiving in the Poconos. Then the last week of January 2019 they will be taking a leisurely drive to South Padre Island, Texas, and would enjoy visiting with any brother rats on the Gulf Coast and in southeastern Texas along the way. Uh oh, mooch alert!

By now, Don and Tucker McQueen should be firmly ensconced in the social hierarchy of

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes cruise, they ran into Jim and Jessica Polley ’68 and found out they are practically neighbors, living in adjacent counties in Virginia.

Recently, Mike and Jeannie Carruth flew to San Francisco to rendezvous with Harry Bare and begin their drive throughout the Northwestern states. They will be traversing northern California and Oregon to the Seattle, Washington, area. From there they will drive across Washington, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming and South Dakota, and will finish in Colorado Springs, Colorado, at Harry’s house for a few days beClass of 1970: Bill Scherer on his recordfore flying back two weeks later. Hopefully, they setting motorcycle, “The Spirit.” won’t have to modify their plans due to the massive forest fires in northern California.

Keswick, Virginia, following their relocation Bob and Valerie Patrick left on a mission there from the Atlanta area this summer to be trip to Honduras with their grandson, Rowan. closer to family. Their daughter and her famWhile there, they will celebrate their 45th wedily reside in Rockville, Maryland, and Tucker’s ding anniversary. Keeping up with all you peobrother, Frank Huger ’69, lives in Crozet, Virple’s travels makes me feel like I am channeling ginia. Recently, they had lunch with Paul and Rick Steves.

Lynn Munch, and they look forward to attendAnyway, much closer to home, the last week ing some football games this fall. in July, we joined John and June Bailey, Gray Relocating the other way were Bill and Paula and Nancy Chandler, and Jim and Judy MawO’Connor, who, after 35 years in Richmond, yer at Charlie and Margaret Walker’s beach moved to Newnan, Georgia, near Atlanta, also home at Corolla, North Carolina, on the Outer to be nearer their grandchildren. Bill plans to Banks. The torrential rains the first two-and-aretire at the end of the year. Once again this half days caused flooding that came within one year, Bill joined Ralph Costen to march in quarter inch of making it inside their home. the annual Ocean Isle Fourth of July parade, Some spur-of-the-moment trench digging and which, given the number of Bloody Marys water diversions, along with a better-late-thanusually involved, was not a trivial feat. A few never pump truck saved the day. It wasn’t much weeks later, the Costen’s Ocean Isle home was better down in Kill Devil Hills, where Larry once again the scene of mirth and glee when and Penny Thompson live. He posted a picture Herb Braun, Peel Dillard, Dick Marshall, Lee on Facebook of the son of a friend who caught Moon and Lew Reynolds gathered there for a what looked like a 10-pound carp in the floodweekend. ed shopping center parking lot. To paraphrase In late July, Paul and Judy Dickinson hosted Julius Caesar, “Carpe carp!” their daughter and her family in Deltaville, Congratulations to Tom Morehouse, Virginia. They planned to head to New who was recently elected president of the Hampshire over the Labor Day weekend Peninsula Chapter of the Alumni Associafor a little relaxation. tion. His first official event was a “night at Also in late July, Steve and Emily Talthe ballpark” at the Hampton War Memoley boarded a ferry in Sydney, Nova Scorial Stadium for a Peninsula Pilots basetia, with their teardrop camper in tow and ball game. The Pilots play in the Coastal headed for Channel-Port aux Basques, Plain college baseball summer league and Newfoundland. From there they will go to are managed by Hank Morgan ’99. Some Grosse Morne National Park and eventuof the alumni attending were former VMI ally end up in Gander, Newfoundland, to “visit with those fine people, who, as you Class of 1970: Class members gathered at Charlie and Pilots players, Taylor Edens ’16 and probably know, were very helpful to many and Margaret Walker’s Corolla beach house in July John Garrett ’13. Tom also reported that were, from left, the Walkers, Jim and Judy Mawyer, travelers stranded there after 9/11 during John and June Bailey, Warren and Liz Grasty, and he made a pilgrimage to Lexington in July to hike to Little House Mountain summit the closure of American airspace.” Have a Gray and Nancy Chandler. with Jack Emerson ’85. “We reached the nice trip, eh.

In July of last year, Bob and Judy Hart retired and moved from Virginia to Kingsport at Sun City Center, Florida, which is about 30 minutes south of Tampa. Bob, does the word “hot” mean anything to you? Anyway, he reports that “our youngest son, Rob, recently retired from the U.S. Air Force as a special investigations senior master sergeant with 25 years. Unfortunately, he suffers from severe PTSD and traumatic brain injury from five improvised explosive device hits during his service in Iraq. He settled in Newport News, Virginia, so we have a place to hang our hat when we visit the Old Dominion. His older brother, James, is an Army major physician assistant. After five Middle East tours, the Army has sent him to Fort Bliss to work on a doctorate in orthopedics. Looks like we’ll be spending Christmas in El Paso this year.” They recently took an American Cruise Line paddle boat cruise on the Mississippi River from New Orleans to Vicksburg and back, where they met Tom Williamson ’55. Bob said the cruise had a Civil War theme, and their docent was a great-great-grandson of Jefferson Davis. They have quite the itinerary of cruises coming up – Havana in October, South America around the Cape in February and Iceland in June. Bob says that they have traveled so much, they are rapidly running out of places to see.

You’re my hero, Bob. Trying to keep pace, in June, Russ and Elaine Marshall enjoyed a cruise around the British Isles that continued on to the Baltic Sea and included a stop in St. Petersburg. Russ was especially impressed with the original (OK, rebuilt) windmill they visited while docked in Amsterdam – quite an engineering marvel. He was really pumped up, so to speak. During the

2018-Issue 4

99

Class Notes summit and put amateur radio station (ham radio – remember the ‘shack’ in Nichols Engineering where I hung out during my cadet years?) K4VMI on the air. Several alumni (Don Lynch ’68, Asa Page ’79 and me) founded the VMI Alumni Amateur Radio Association this spring and secured the call sign K4VMI. The House Mountain expedition was our first time activating our call sign. Any alumna/us who is a licensed amateur radio operator can join; there are no dues or other obligations.” In his “spare” time, Tom still works at WHRO in Norfolk.

And congratulations to Bob Hawthorne whose company, Martinair, was named the top air charter operator in the commonwealth for 2018 by Virginia Magazine. Martinair provides 24/7 air transportation for medical transplants and government and business VIPs. On Memorial Day, Bob led the Thomas Jefferson Cadet Corps Alumni Band and friends in a concert honoring all those who gave their lives while serving our country, which included a special tribute honoring the 83 T.J. alumni who perished serving in World War II, Korea and Vietnam.

Congratulations also to John and June Bailey on the marriage of son Patrick to Meghan Hallock Aug. 4. It was a beautiful outdoor wedding at the Faithbrooke Barn and Vineyards in Luray, Virginia. Joining in the celebration were A.C. and Beth Arnn, Jim and Judy Mawyer, and Charlie and Margaret Walker.

Also attending were two of Jim and Judy’s children, daughter Peyton and Mark Hipes with their new daughter, Virginia Mae, and son Taylor Mawyer ’01 with his family. The next day Gray and Nancy Chandler left their family reunion at Wintergreen Resort and joined the Baileys and the Mawyers on a winery tour.

And finally, congratulations to A.C. and Beth Arnn, who learned that son Patrick will be the new commander at Shaw Air Force Base in South Carolina upon his return from Korea at the end of the year. As this will be the first time they have lived close to Patrick and his family, they have taken their home off the market in Blytheville, South Carolina. In October, they will be taking a Rhine River cruise, with some extra time spent before in Prague and after in Paris.

That’s all for now, and I hope you will have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Be sure to check

100

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!

1971

Jim Kelly

These notes will cover the period from May 15, 2018, through Aug. 15, 2018.

When we were growing up (assuming everyone did), it seemed like August was still part of summer vacation. Even our rat year, we had another five weeks or so to go after Aug. 1 before we matriculated. Public and private schools, as well as colleges, all seem to be getting in to full swing this time of year and bumping “summer” to the month of May. You may recall that our class was the last class to matriculate after Labor Day. But that was over 50 years ago, my friends, and things have a way of changing.

Sadly, since the last set of class notes, we have lost another of our brother rats. John Adams died Wednesday, July 11, 2018, at his home in Vero Beach, Florida. John matriculated at VMI from Schenectady, New York, and was a Company A rat. John left VMI following our rat year and entered Johns Hopkins, where he graduated two years later. John realized that VMI had a profound effect on his life, and he established the John A. Adams 1971 Center for Strategic Analysis and Military History on the campus of VMI. He was also the author of several books on military history. He was preceded in death by his wife and is survived by one brother. As of this writing, I do not have any additional information concerning services or burial arrangements.

Kathryn and I were able take a week at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, during May. This was a trip we had planned last year which got canceled due to a hurricane in the neighborhood. The owner of the villa (across from Dafuskie Island) was kind enough to let us carry

over the rental until this year. During mid-July, we joined Chuck and Veronica and grandchildren Lauren and Ryan for a week at Emerald Isle, North Carolina. Both weeks were very cooperative weather wise, and having not been to the beach for a while, we enjoyed the trips.

We hardly ever go anywhere near or far where we don’t encounter people from VMI or with VMI connections. This year was no exception.

On HHI, the owners of the villa next to our rental represented four generations of alumni: The Worsham family, Classes of ’37, ’67, ’93 and ’19. There was also a gentleman at a local restaurant on the island who was heading to VMI for his son’s graduation on May 16, 2018.

While at Emerald Isle, we kept the streak alive with meeting two alumni (circa ’85) on the beach and, at a restaurant, the mother of a rising 2nd Class cadet who was not at the beach due to being at an ROTC summer camp. It has been said regarding VMI alumni that “there are not many of us, but we are everywhere.”

I heard from Mike Strickler that he and Doris had a second grandchild, Cyrus Paul Green, born graduation day May 16, 2018, to their daughter, Amanda, and husband Kevin who live in nearby Rockbridge Baths. Cyrus has an older sister who was born on New Market Day in 2016, thus making it easy to plan birthday celebrations. Mike also mentioned that he had recently seen his dyke, Dixon McElwee ’68, and Paul Hebert ’68. Dixon was attending a conference sponsored by the Department of Economics and Business at VMI. Dixon mentioned to Mike that he was scheduled to play golf in the near future with our own Jimmy Neale who had a dyke in the same room with Strick. Paul served as a visiting professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering during the second semester of this past school year. He is a recipient of the Jonathan Myrick Daniels ’61 Humanitarian Award presented at VMI. The Keydet Club Leadership outing was held during the first weekend of June 2018. Representing ’71 were Acuff, Ellington, Strickler, Wall, Gearhart and Gault. Lanny indicated that everyone had a great weekend with the usual outstanding seafood dinner. A tribute was made to Donnie Ross ’74 honoring his 20 years of fundraising for the Keydet Club.

Bobby Ross ’59 served as the keynote speaker.

In addition to his report on the Keydet Club

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes outing, Lanny provided several bits of news about other brother rats and friends. Jerry Acuff continues to travel a great deal with his work and remains very involved with the Keydet Club, coaches and players. Jerry’s son, Ryan, entered the Rat Line in August.

John and Ollie Wall recently returned from a trip with their church group to Ireland and Scotland and found those places to be both “interesting” and “amazing.” Buddy and Carol Bryan visited with Larry Wiese and his wife at their place in Tuscany, Italy. Lanny and T.S. were recently in Key West and joined there by Ox Schrader and his fiancée, Anne Ohle. In April, Lanny and T.S. were on Hilton Head Island and while there visited Tommy and Jill Cooke ’70 as well as Bob and Susan Copty ’70 who live over on Dafuskie Island. Geoff Schelhorn and Steve Price joined some other VMI people on New Market Day and visited an old cemetery where some of the New Market soldiers are buried. Charlie Lindsey has sold his long running ice cream business in Old Town Alexandria – no more of What’s the Scoop.

J.D. Morefield’s widow, Martha, has relocated from Abingdon to Richmond near where her daughter lives.

Around the Fourth of July, three brother rats and their wives escaped the Richmond heat by going on a cruise to Alaska. Sam and Spring Kirby, Tom and Connie Martenstein, and John and Wyatt Heisler made the trip. The ship only had about 40 passengers, and the group was treated with close encounters with bears, whales and glaciers. At approximately the same time, Ken and Carol Yorgey spent three days in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, visiting their daughter, Kristen. While on a food tour, they ran in to Curt Reppart ’76. Both Ken and Curt are general dentists, although Curt is now retired. Curt was a star basketball player for the Keydets and has been inducted to the VMI Sports Hall of Fame.

On the weekend of June 14-16, 2018, I attended the annual Volunteer Leader Conference held at VMI. This group is composed of class agents, alumni chapter leaders, regional directors of the Alumni Association and members of the Alumni Association Board of Directors. We heard updates from VMI officials concerning the state of the Institute and had a number of breakout discussions on topics such as reunion planning, use of social media,

2018-Issue 4

utilizing iModules and information on admissions and career development. We also had a nice banquet Friday evening with our BR Jerry Acuff as the keynote speaker, and as always, he was inspirational.

It would be somewhat lengthy to try to cover all of the things we heard and saw, but as the next year unfolds, we will see a few changes with regard to publications, use of the VMI Ranks to organize data and track events such as reunions and chapter events (which we were pretty successful with when doing our last reunion), and you have already begun to receive more publications from VMI via email. I would urge each of you to be sure that you have created a profile on VMI Ranks and that you will take some time to look over the body of work that is online regarding VMI in general – everything from admissions to a tour of the facilities and some excellent videos about the nature of VMI today. If you have not signed on to VMI Ranks, you should go ahead and get that done.

For new users, go to vmialumni.org/newuser, or if you want to check your profile or make changes, go to vmialumni.org/myprofile.

During our briefings at the leadership meeting, we heard a lot of great news about VMI with regard to its recognition from state and national sources. The State Council of Higher Education named VMI as one of the most selective four year public colleges and universities in Virginia. The top six in order were William and Mary, University of Virginia, VMI, Christopher Newport University, James Madison University and Virginia Tech. Forbes Magazine ranks VMI No. 11 on its list of Top 25 Public Colleges with the Highest Earning Graduates and No. 33 in the Top Colleges of the South. U.S. News and World Report consistently ranks VMI among the nation’s top five public liberal arts colleges and No. 5 out of 233 public and private schools for its operating efficiency. Money Magazine ranked VMI No. 10 for Best Colleges in the South and No. 41 for all public schools in the United States.

More directly related to the Corps, VMI now has a faculty to student ratio of 11:1, offers undergraduate research in all fields, has wellestablished graduate school partnerships, offers numerous study abroad and exchange programs and has all of its classes taught by faculty. The campus facilities are among the best in the nation. This year’s graduating class was the largest

Class of 1971: Ox Schrader; Lanny Gault; Schrader’s fiancée, Anne Ohle; and T.S. Gault met up in Key West.

Class of 1971: Robert Haywood, John Metzger, Oscar Padgett, Dave Kennedy and Steve Fogleman during a recent visit.

Class of 1971: North to Alaska: Sam and Spring Kirby, Connie and Tom Martenstein and Wyatt and John Heisler with the Mendenhall glacier in the background. in the history of VMI with 355 graduates (the Class of ’71 only matriculated 353) and the rate of commissioning is at its highest level (greater than 57 percent) in many years. Cadets are able to offset the cost of a VMI education by qualifying for numerous financial aid packages.

Nearly 90 percent of the Corps now receives some type of financial support, with 53 percent need-based, 26 percent ROTC scholarships and

101

Class Notes

Class of 1971: A rat send-off was held in the New River Valley area of Virginia, July 28, 2018.

Pictured were, from left, William Hale ’03, Chris Huff ’90, Joe Levine ’91, Cadet Gage Levine ’21, incoming cadet Solomon Ghosh, incoming cadet Garrett Baffuto, incoming cadet Grayson Hurst, Greg Hurst ’91, Brad Burrus ’96, Bob Underwood ’81, incoming cadet Mollie Straub, Barry Helms ’76, incoming cadet Olivia Smoot, Gary Eifred ’63, Buz Booker ’71, Charles Straub ’63, Jim Kelly ’71, Barry O’Donnell ’71 and Cadet Isaak Halkidis ’21.

11 percent athletic scholarships.

Speed Patterson, working in conjunction with the Colgate Darden Graduate School of Business and the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at the University of Virginia, had a case study published featuring his work in using technology to capture and make useful his knowledge in the fiduciary governance of retirement and nonprofit accounts. Speed’s company is partnering with Bayesia Lab, a provider of software services to multinational and federal agencies. Patterson uses Bayes Theorem to assess the probability of compliance with best practices. This theorem has been used by others to crack the Enigma code, confirm the authorship of the Federalist Papers and to find the wreckage of Air France Flight 447 within one week after

Class of 1971: Ken Yorgey and Curt Reppart ’76 had a chance meeting in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Photo courtesy Kristen Day. 102

traditional methods had failed for two years. I am sure Speed would enjoy sharing his work with those of you in similar lines of work.

The New River Valley Chapter of the VMI Alumni Association held a rat send-off at the home of the parents of Dr. Will Hale ’03 in the country near Dublin, Virginia. The event was organized by Brad Burrus ’96, the local chapter president. A great crowd was on hand to extend best wishes and words of wisdom to three young men and two young women about to enter their rat year. At the event were Will Hale ’03, Chris Huff ’90, Joe Levine ’91, Solomon Ghosh (incoming cadet), Garrett Baffuto (incoming cadet), Grayson Hurst (incoming cadet), Greg Hurst ’91, Brad Burrus ’96, Bob Underwood ’81, Mollie Straub (incoming cadet), Barry Helms ’76, Olivia Smoot (incoming cadet), Gary Eifried ’63, Buzz Booker, Charles Straub ’63, Jim Kelly, Barry O’Donnell and Cadet Isaak Halkidis ’21.

Jerry Kelly and Creg Howland ’68 lived near each other in northern Virginia and have remained in close contact since Jerry’s move to Colorado. Creg and his wife, Maggie, were on an extended vacation and spent some time seeing the sights in Denver including the remodeled Union Station, where they took several pictures and shared them via email.

Several brother rats spend a long weekend at John Metzger’s around the first of August.

Fogleman, Kennedy and Haywood came in Thursday and, along with John, went up to Staunton to see Oscar Padgett. Their visit was also on the same day that Oscar was being moved

to a facility back in Bedford near his home turf.

Oscar has been seriously ill for some time now but still is able to appreciate visits and encouragement from brother rats. John and Laura had been up to see him on a couple of occasions before the above mentioned trip. Also in for the weekend were Paton, Jolissaint, Jamieson and Tim Gundlach ’73.

Football season will be nearly complete when these notes reach you, and we all hope the Big Red will have a successful year. Coach Wachenheim has five new assistant coaches this season and he described them as “men of character who bring a high level of expertise to their area of coaching.” We also have some fine young men who are working hard on the field and in the classroom. The VMI football program was recognized for improved academics by the Division 1 FCS Athletic Directors Association. VMI had the most improved Academic Progress Rate score in the Southern Conference. APR measures eligibility, graduation and retention each semester and provides a clear picture of the academic performance for each team in every sport. Additionally, 132 athletes from all sports were named to the 2017-18 SoCon Academic Honor Roll.

The Big Red basketball team will open its season at home against Washington College Tuesday, Nov. 6, 2018. This game will be the first of 15 home games this winter. The Keydets will visit the Virginia Tech Hokies in Blacksburg Dec. 5, 2018, with game time to be announced.

Our final home game of the year is Saturday, March 2, 2019, against The Citadel Bulldogs at 1 p.m. Mark your calendars for that game as many members of ’71 usually make it a point to be in Lexington on that day. The Keydets still have a very young team but with the playing experience from last year there is hope for a much better season for 2018-19.

The Annual Giving figures for Fiscal Year 2018 were just released to the class agents and on time for this set of notes. The Class of ’71 overall had a very good year and for the better part of FY18 we led all of the classes in the decade of the ’70s. At the close of the fourth quarter the Class of ’70 made up a lot of ground and finished ahead of us as did the Class of ’73 by a fraction. We had 100 donors with an alumni participation rate of 42.02 percent. The average rate of alumni participation for the ’70s was 35.32 percent. My thanks to

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the one hundred brother rats who made contributions in FY18 and I encourage everyone to give some thought to continuing, or beginning, a program of giving back to VMI. If you glance back in these notes, it is obvious from our standing in so many regional and national recognitions that, as alumni, we should realize that maintaining or even improving those impressive accolades depends on our financial support. As we approach our 50th Reunion, be aware that contributions made to VMI since our 45th will count toward the final tally for that reunion gift. Now is a good time to consider getting that brick on the sidewalk or lending your support to a scholarship or any number of worthwhile activities on post.

As you are reading these notes you may be thinking about a big Thanksgiving dinner and how many days it is until Christmas. Kathryn and I wish all of you happy holidays and look forward to hearing from you soon. Take care of yourselves.

God bless our team and VMI. Jim

1972

Larry Houseworth

Brother Rats, Sisters, Legacies, Families and Friends, Greetings and salutations from the center of the universe (apologies to Ashland’s Coby Fitzhugh). These notes cover mid-May through mid-August. Richmond’s steam kettle summer shows no sign of abetting any time before Christmas, and our news is extensive.

As I assembled these notes, I was struck by the juxtaposition of our recent losses (a particularly difficult and sad quarter) with the 50th anniversary of our Matriculation. I’ll wager not a one of us during those ghastly weeks of summer 1968 could imagine the bond that would develop and grow among us from that point forward in our lives. Yet, even those who were with us for only a short time often write of the profound effect our particular brotherhood has had upon their lives. So, as our ranks inevitably thin, the bond intensifies, and it all began

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1972: Bob Bailey, Mike Kennedy, Ed Channel and Rick Bishop got together for beer and burgers in downtown Lexington at Johnny’s (Central Lunch) in August 1970 – nearly 48 years ago. In June 2018, they got together again at Francesco’s Ristorante Italiano in Williamsburg, Virginia. in those stifling rooms and sleep-deprived days of confusion and panic. (If you haven’t seen Rob Murray’s “Day Before Tomorrow,” let me know, and I’ll send you a copy.)

To the news: Dick Valentine participated in the Jonathan Daniels ’61 pilgrimage Aug.1011 in Hayneville, Alabama. Chris Arey noted that Dick’s presence serves as “a beacon to the angels of our better nature.” A proud salute to you, Dick.

And in the theme of yesterday and today, check out Bob Bailey’s photo. Four chiseled cadre sergeants at a Johnny’s training table (August 1970) and those same gentlemen (Bob, Ed Channel, Rick Bishop and Mike Kennedy) with their brides (Grace, Liz, Karen and Libby) 50 years later (at a far classier venue). Proof again, BRs, that marrying up – way up – has been good for us.

Carsten Hillson, Norm Worrell, Jim Pagones and I shared an e-chuckle over your scribe’s inability to keep birthdays straight. (His honor offered this from the bench: “Seventeen years ago when I turned a half-century old, I became a charter member of the halftimers club: Half the time I remember, half the time I don’t. Welcome to the club, BR.”) And, in his inimitable manner, Norm suggested a unique approach to our entry onto the Parade Ground for the 50th. A la Recondo, he suggests H-60s and rappelling ropes – apparently it was a hit for his and Joy’s 25th wedding anniversary. I’m game – who’s in?

Tom Moncure shared a note about a harrowing health event, fortunately solved quickly, and the unselfish role of two BRs in its resolution.

“I was on a church mission trip to southwestern Virginia in early July when I felt some chest discomfort and elected to cut my weeklong trip short and head the 400 miles back to Williamsburg, figuring I could stop at intermediate, familiar locations on the way if the discomfort persisted or increased. Approaching Lexington (about half-way to Williamsburg), I decided to drop into Carilion Stonewall Jackson Hospital for evaluation, calling Hank Humphreys en route and asking him to meet me there. Hank arrived simultaneously with me and contacted George Kosovic, who joined us. Our ‘mini reunion’ in the hospital emergency room was cut short when tests revealed that I had or was experiencing a ‘heart event’ and needed to be transferred to Augusta Medical Center near Waynesboro (no cardio unit at CSJH), so I got my first-ever ambulance ride (no sirens or speeding, darn it!) and was admitted. A battery of tests revealed a nearly blocked ‘circumflex’ (thought that was an exercise machine!) artery that was addressed in an hour-long catheterization with stent put in place – the before and after pictures were amazing, not to mention how much better I felt. One night for observation followed, and Sally took me home about noon after just 21 hours in AMC. We left my car in the good hands of Hank and George, who met Sally in Lexington and transferred all my stuff to her car. Two days later, Hank and George, in caravan, gave up their Saturday and returned my Dodge Challenger to Williamsburg.

I am most blessed, recovering nicely and look forward to attending the 50th Matriculation reunion in Lexington Aug. 22. George’s and

103

Class Notes three daughters (financially devastating, but much more fun). Yes, colleges, too (financially devastating, and not any fun). So, after eight years in the Army and nearly 40 years in medical sales and management, I retired for a few months, but my past caught up with me, and I’m working again. So it goes. But, still having fun! Also, I serve as chairman of the advisory council for the Kairos Prison Ministry here in Georgia. Aside from that and work, Cathy and I spend most of our time with friends, travelClass of 1972: Kurt and Cathy Renz on ing together or with the kids/grandkids. Very the Oregon Coast. much looking forward to seeing everyone for Hank’s support and assistance were invaluable our big 50th Reunion!” Thanks, Kurt. during this trying period, meeting and staying A quick message from Sandy Edens (Castle with me through the transfer, keeping in touch Rock, Colorado) reflects why I love being your with and advising Sally, and returning my car. class agent: “I feel so strongly about the welcomLessons learned: Don’t delay treatment. I had ing arms of the Class of ’72 (are we that old?) only one of the many symptoms of a heart isthat if it will help any of our BRs or other classes, sue and no family history or normal risk facI will fly back to encourage anyone to rejoin their tors. I never really felt that bad. Also, if you are class. Please let me know if I can do that. We are, on the road and do feel bad, find a place with after all, all brother rats!” Thanks, BR. Class of ’72 BRs in town!” Amen.

Bob Stransky sent a fascinating timeline of Sean Lanier ’94 sent me a note and pictures of Thomas Jefferson’s (my favorite founding faPhil Wilkerson’s retirement ceremony July 25. ther) career. I’m certain he’d be happy to share Col. Phil (not to be confused with wife retired Lt. it. I’ve added it to my archive that includes Tom Col. Carol) retired after almost 50 years of serWilliamson’s outstanding paper on Mathew vice on active duty and civil service (his last years Fontaine Maury (https://sites.google.com/ on the Army G-8 staff at HQDA Pentagon). site/maurystatuerichmond/maury-man-andSean said that, in addition to the formalities and his-monument) and the VMI Museum’s link well-deserved awards, Bill Collier brought down to the Stonewall Jackson House (http://www. the house with his less-than-formal remarks. vmi.edu/museums-and-archives/stonewallContinuing in the career transition vein, Eric jackson-house/history/jackson-faq/#q9).

Hammersen sent this: “The current dean of the And did you all see – on digital communiCollege of Strategic Intelligence (one of two cations – the dapperly attired Mr. Maddox schools under the National Intelligence UniverSprinkel? He is the son of Matt Sprinkel and sity) is retiring this month, and I’ve been asked Margaux Stransky Sprinkel; grandson of Bob to step in for six months as they do a nationand Linda Stransky and Murphy and Woodi wide search for the next dean. The colSprinkel ’71. The boy’s going to be a lege is larger (in terms of student body) chick magnet. than NDU’s National War College and Marie and I attended the Richmond Eisenhower School, combined, with fullClub’s rat send-off at the Virginia Historiand part-time graduate degrees/graduate cal Society. We thoroughly enjoyed meetcertificates taught both in the D.C. area ing the incoming cadets and chatting with and at remote locations around the U.S. their parents. We also had great conversaand in Europe. Being the dean is going tions with Ad Hagan ’97 and Bob Patterto be a fun ride. Duties begin at the start son ’79, who provided an inspiring talk on of August. the Honor Court. Bob Louthan ’82 gave a “July 27 was our NIU graduation cerepresentation titled, “Who Would Want to mony, and we had Dan Coats (director of Class of 1972: Norm Worrell, Larry Houseworth, Kurt Attend a College Like That,” which was a National Intelligence) as our commence- Renz and Ted Bremer attended their Annandale High big hit with all of the attendees. I strongly School class of 1968 reunion in September 2017. Bill ment speaker. I worked for then-Ambassa- Youell was present but not pictured. encourage you to attend gatherings such dor Coats when I was the defense attaché as this when you have the opportunity; the in Germany during my last year on active duty.

He arrived the Friday before 9/11 to take over what was then the largest diplomatic mission in the world (for example, we had more than 200 Department of Defense personnel assigned or attached to the embassy). Following 9/11, I had the opportunity for a lot of interaction with the ambassador. Attached is a picture of the two of us, just before the NIU graduation ceremony began.

“Carol and I are still in the process of building the ‘forever house’ in Fredericksburg in the heart of the Texas hill country. Hopefully, it will be done by the start of the new year. Still have to navigate getting our house in northern Virginia sold, packing and shipping our household goods to Texas, and doing it in a way that we don’t end up paying two mortgages at the same time. Once we are there, we welcome visitors who want to see the Nimitz Museum of the War in the Pacific, the LBJ Ranch, the largest wildflower farm in the country, the oldest operating brewery in Texas or one of the more than two-dozen wineries in the area just around the town. Fredericksburg is only about 90 miles north of San Antonio and about 90 miles west of Austin (‘just around the corner’ in terms of distances in Texas).” Thanks, BR – you may have a line of us waiting when you arrive.

Kurt Renz sent a great catch-up note and pictures. “Cathy and I just celebrated the birth of our 13th grandchild, Katie Lynn. We have seven (count them) ‘kids’ between us (oldest is 47 – adopted), and the youngest is 24.

Married four times. Divorced three times (financially devastating). Finally met the love of my life, Cathy, and married her. Married off

104

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Alumni Association chapters do an outstanding job!

Our gracious and tolerant editors are sounding assembly, so that’s a wrap for now, BRs. As always, take care of you and yours. Rah Virginia Mil! Larry

1973

Mike Kelly

Hello, Brother Rats!

When you receive this issue of the Review, it will be about the same time as our 45th Reunion! As I write these notes, the registration form is being posted online on the VMI Alumni Association website; you should also have received a notice in the mail along with the registration form. I have had numerous calls and inquiries during the past few months, so it is my hope that we will have the best turnout ever!

Pat and I have not been on any trips this summer but hope to visit folks in Florida later this fall. We had a busy summer. We had a Memorial Day work weekend at the ranch in Pulaski. Then I attended Boy Scout camp with my son, Scott, who is the scoutmaster, and his two boys, Nicholas and Conner, who are in the troop. We were at Camp Powhatan in Pulaski County, Virginia, where I used to go to camp and worked there on the staff. We really had a wonderful time. Nicholas and Conner have provisional appointments to VMI, so I’m keeping my fingers crossed.

I also attended the Alumni Agencies’ leadership conference in June at VMI. Our class was well represented, as other members in attendance included Larry Mays, Region IV director; Blake Thomas, Region VII new director; P.X. English, chapter president of the Upstate/Pisgah Chapter in North and South Carolina; E.D. Woomer, who helps P.X. in the Asheville, North Carolina area; and Tim McConnell, who is helping with the Midlands South Carolina chapter. Michael Smith, president of the Myrtle Beach chapter, had planned to join us but had to cancel at the last minute.

We missed Jeff Minch, Region X director, as he was also unable to attend.

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1973: Members of the class present at the Alumni Agencies’ Volunteer Leadership Conference in June at VMI were, from left, Mike Kelly, Larry Mays, Tim McConnell, Blake Thomas, E.D. Woomer and Paul “P.X.” English.

The Kellys held our usual big Fourth of July celebration at the ranch with 49 folks for lunch and 65 for ice cream and fireworks! It was a fun weekend for everyone. On July 2, we had a memorial service for my dad in Pulaski, and I was very pleased to see Fred Hall and his wife who came to the service. I have spent a lot of time getting ready for the reunion, and since the first of August, we have attended several rat send-off functions in Region VI. I have spoken with a number of folks regarding the reunion. Most recently, I talked to Joe and Mary Duffy about the event, and they are planning to attend. They both said they were doing well and looking forward to seeing everyone. I have had several conversations with Danny Williamson who lives in Rockbridge County. Danny is coordinating with a neighbor to allow us to set up a skeet range on his property. Danny is a certified National Rifle Association range officer and is taking the lead on this event. R.B. Newman called me the other day and is planning to attend. P.X. English has been working on getting our blazer patch resurrected and available at the reunion.

Klaus Worrell has been hard at work developing some fact sheets and general information on our class to be distributed. Michael Smith posted on our Facebook page that he was the first to send in his registration and is looking forward to seeing everyone again, and Ray Burton, Pete Walters and Bill Spencer have been talking up the reunion a lot on Facebook.

As part of the weekend events, we will have a memorial service on the bricks to honor our deceased BRs. I am pleased to say that, due to

the generosity of many of you, all of our deceased BRs will have a brick in place in time for the reunion.

Rick Gribling sent a note to say he would be out of the country at the time of our reunion and that he hates to miss it. He and Rebekah are also planning a trip to London and Edinburgh in mid-September to visit their daughter and celebrate birthdays.

I also had a note from Barry Robertson, who gets the “lost BR of the month” award since I don’t remember when I heard from him last!

Barry said he was thinking the fall reunion would be earlier, and he and his wife had already booked tickets for a stay in Aruba for two weeks. He said he was sorry they won’t be able to make it and wished us all well. Have fun, Barry, and keep in touch.

Tom Jennings sent a note to say he and Lois had a great trip to Ireland; however, he quickly realized that driving on the narrow country roads on the “wrong side” of the road was somewhat scary! They are planning another trip but most likely won’t rent a car this time!

Tom said his driveway was wider than most roads in the country. Hang in there, Tom, it gets easier. We’ve done it several times! Tom had rotator cuff surgery a couple of weeks after they got back, and he said he was doing well and making it through therapy. He was working on his reunion registration when he sent me the note.

Bob Poynor said he didn’t have a lot to report, because when you are fully retired, one day looks pretty much like another. His wife has taken up quilting, and Bob enjoys riding his motorcycle.

105

Class Notes

Class of 1973: Mike Kelly attended Boy Scout summer camp at Camp Powhatan in Pulaski County, Virginia, where he grew up. His son, Scott, is the scoutmaster, and his two boys are in the troop. Pictured were, from left, Mike Kelly, Nicholas Kelly, Conner Kelly and Scott Kelly.

Jim Ackley said he and Susan and their family had a nice summer vacation in Maui. While the kids took off in different directions, Jim and Susan hung out on the beach and chased their 2-year-old grandson around. The family also got together at Smith Mountain Lake the week of July 4. Jim has continued to stay active in the arts and drama as a guest director. In the spring, he was invited to direct the spring show at Virginia Episcopal School to help in their inaugural season, and he is now getting ready to lead the “Laramie Project” at the Renaissance Community Theatre in Lynchburg. Susan has started decreasing her workload as a tax accountant and working toward retirement.

Roland Tiso continues to work with contractors in helping to develop business in the Middle East. He and our other roommate, Terry Howlett, are linking up for our reunion and have reserved a room in Moody Hall. Ro just hopes one of his contractors doesn’t send him overseas at the time of our reunion! He said Judie was doing well, and they enjoy having C.J. and her husband, Mike, close by in St.

106

Class of 1973: Joe Wyatt sent in a photo of his two granddaughters who live in Rockbridge County. They occasionally wander around VMI and recently discovered their grandfather’s brick in front of barracks, as well as the brick for Joe’s father, who was in the Class of 1943.

Petersburg. Allie is now engaged, and Judie is planning a wedding in October in Pittsburgh.

Looking forward to seeing you guys!

Ray Burton said he went out to dinner to celebrate a birthday recently and ordered the Quarter Guard Supper at Denny’s. He remembers that meal as being the only good thing about being on guard duty. However, he said that if his memory serves him correctly, the steak from Crozet was better than the one he had that night, but it brought back memories!

P.X. English and I were talking recently, and Ed Hall’s name came up. I mentioned that I had not heard from Ed in a while, so P.X. gave him a call. He reported back that Ed was doing just fine! Then I got a note from Ed saying he had really been busy organizing the Joint Military Council of Howard County (Maryland), of which he is the president. He also had just returned from the American Legion convention and was proud to report that the post he is commander of received the Maryland Excellence Award. Their post sponsored a July 4 parade, and then went to his place for a picnic and the firing of his “A” Battery!

Klaus Worrell has posted several pictures on our Facebook page showing a beach somewhere on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

He said they were really enjoying some time watching the sun come up and waves crashing on the beach. One BR has commented that maybe we should have the reunion down there!

There have also been postings of John and Sarah Ciriaco. John continues to recover from his illness last year and is getting out a lot now. They recently hiked into Dogwood Canyon and other areas in the park. Sarah said John was really doing well.

Joe Wyatt sent me a note saying he is still working in the nuclear power industry and hopes to begin curtailing some work next year and possibly retire, as well. Joe also included a picture of his two granddaughters, who live in Rockbridge County. They occasionally wander around VMI and recently discovered Joe’s brick, as well as the brick for Joe’s father, who was in the Class of 1943. Joe is looking forward to the reunion.

I didn’t have a lot of notes this time around, but I expect I’ll get plenty to put in next year’s first edition of the Review following our reunion! I really look forward to seeing everyone.

Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays are just around the corner! Pat and I want to wish all of you a happy Thanksgiving and a very merry Christmas. Be safe out there, and enjoy the season.

I also want to remind you that the end of the year is fast approaching. Time to consider making that tax donation to VMI that you may have been putting off all year. I would like to see our giving ratio continue to go up. At the end of Fiscal Year 2017, we had 41.5 percent of the class contributing to the Institute, and at the end of FY 2018 (June 30), we had risen to 42.1, which is up from just a few years ago when we were in the 35 percent range. Keep it up, BRs! And if you haven’t given to VMI, please consider doing so. Every little bit helps.

You can start out with $73! And as food for thought, if you enjoy getting and receiving the Review, I want to let you know that the annual cost per issue of the Review is approximately $50.

Thanks to all of you who are such great supporters of the school we cherish.

Hope to see you this fall. Take care.

In the bonds, Mike

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1974

Snookie Parker

Greetings Brother Rats, Family and Friends of the Class of 1974!

The following are notes from May 16 to Aug. 15. Before I get started, I’d like to take quick stroll down memory lane to see who can recall these events. According to the “sign in” list from Aug. 20, 1970, who was the first Brother Rat to sign in? Who was the last BR to sign in?

What number was that last sign-in? Answers at the end of these notes.

How about this bit of trivia: What is VMI’s football record against Virginia Tech? I recall during our 4th Class year, we lost to Virginia Tech 20-14 in Roanoke in November 1970.

Many may recall the humiliation of the paper mache facsimilia of Moe being positioned in front of the Virginia Tech cannon and the horde of brother rats racing across the football field to save said facsimilia only to find, as we waded into the Moe (not sure, but I think we were still in white ducks), the said facsimilia was filled with cow manure – to the delight of the entire Hokie sideline. However, our 1st Class year, VMI trounced Virginia Tech 22-21 in Blacksburg, Virginia. Well, trounce maybe a stretch considering the goal line stand in the waning moments of the game. Question: What is the lifetime record of Virginia Tech versus VMI? The answer is at the end of the notes.

Also, before I get started, some upcoming things to think about: 1) Save the Date for the 45th Reunion: Nov. 1-3, 2019.

2) 50th anniversary celebration of our entry into the Rat Line: Mini reunion, dinner and cocktails in Moody Hall Aug. 20, 2020 – more to follow!

3) The 50th Reunion is just around the corner.

4) What to do with class funds – consolidate three funds to one/two, establish a class scholarship? On a separate note, many BRs have served VMI and the Alumni Association in various roles throughout the years. I would like to this opportunity to recognize some of those

2018-Issue 4

currently serving: Donnie Ross, Keydet Club vice president (just retired); Sammy Ratcliffe – career counselor (just retired); Sam Mattocks, chapter president, Central Virginia Region, TriCities 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 Region; Judge Nottingham, Joe McCoskrie, John Savage and others have served in the past. Charley Banning and Paul Van Doren are serving as grand poobahs of Potomac and Tidewater area breakfast clubs, respectively. Many thanks for your selfless service.

Rumor has it that Red Undercoffer should be coming out of a pretty remote location in the former French West Africa in August. No telling where his next assignment will be!

Mike Fisher sent a “Viking laws” postcard while on a June Viking adventure; it seems that Mike and Sarah were cruising with Craig Smith and Carol and other friends out of Dublin, Ireland, to Norway, then Scotland and then back to Dublin. What a trip!

Rob Bacon and I took in round of golf in Jacksonville, Florida – made the turn and never got past the 19th hole. Rob is doing well but did have to dust off his gear. His glove and shoes had rotted, but his clubs still had a little juice.

I did miss seeing Joan, the teaching rock star (she had just been recognized as the winner of the Gladys Prior Award for Career Teaching Excellence, which includes a cash prize of $10,000-$15,000). I understand that Joan and some guy named Yurman have a new-found business relationship! Well done, Joan; well deserved!

While in Florida, I visited with Pat and Sue Flynn who had just returned from a trip to Italy. We had a fabulous dinner at a hideaway joint on St. Augustine Beach.

News flash! Charley “Bionic Man” Banning received his second “Teflon” knee in June.

Charlie and Tommie Toler have been on the road touring the southeastern USA in a motor home and blessed Rick Hess with a visit. Rick reports, “What a blessing of fellowship, fun, conversation and Tommie testing flights of beer. We shared old stories, new stories, future stories and plans. Never put off the chance to visit with those you walked the path less traveled. Thanks, Charlie Toler and Tommie. They look wonderful and are having a blast traveling in the motor home. They are on a mission to catch up with as many people as they can.”

Charlie went by to pay respects to BR Bob Trost in Arlington Cemetery – may he rest in peace.

How about the saga of Bill McDonald’s class ring replacement adventure: After months of waiting and a couple of months before that researching, Bill had been contacted by Balfour about replacing his lost 1974 class ring. In search of a replacement ring, Bill filled out the

Class of 1974: Charley Banning, Wilson Johnson, Clint Anderson, Bill McDonald, Charlie Gardner, Kirk Dennis ’95, Mike Andriani, Jim “Space” Huddle and Rich Donahue attended the Potomac area breakfast club gathering Aug. 11, 2018.

107

Class Notes grandchildren and Wrightsville Beach. Arnie has joined the Cape Fear Camera Club and the local bike club. Maria and Arnie plan to enroll in some continuing education courses at University of North Carolina – Wilmington. Maria and Arnie have already visited with locals Andy and Pat Young and are looking forward seeing Jim Huddle soon. Arnie, that sounds like a good start for your retirement years. I hope to visit soon!

Terrell “Luke” Williams attended the June 1 Keydet Club Leadership Outing in Lexington. Other BRs attending were Donnie Ross, Gary Trinkle, Craig Carlock, Mark Prentice, Ricky Kastelberg and Tom Puskas. BRs Ross, Trinkle, Carlock and Prentice made up a great ’74 team in the golf outing. Terrell played with his cousin, Gordon Williams ’70; Rick Wolffe ’78; and Danny Thornton ’78. None of our BRs finished in the money, but it was a great day. The highlight of the evening occurred when Donnie was honored for his successful service to the Keydet Club for the past 20 years.

Meade King ’85, Keydet Club chief operating officer, read a wonderfully worded resolution commenting on Donnie’s dedication and hard work, his success, and what a pleasure it is to be in his company. Then BR Rick Kastelberg, who has known Donnie nearly all of his life, spoke some heartfelt words about Donnie and his work with Keydet Club. The last speaker was Donnie’s brother, Coach Bobby Ross ’59, who, in addition to saying very nice things about what Donnie has done for VMI, regaled the gathering with a couple of hilarious stories of when he played football for Coach McKenna. Finally, the Keydet Club honored Ross by

announcing the establishment of the Donald S. “Donnie” Ross ’74 Family Athletic Scholarship. As Donnie reacted to the announcement that several of his friends had initiated the above-mentioned scholarship, he commented about his abiding love for VMI and its cadetathletes. Most importantly, he encouraged our ongoing support of VMI and urged all of us to get on the team. An Old Yell for Donnie: Are you ready?! Well done, Donnie; well deserved.

And kudos to Gary Trinkle for his personal effort to see Donnie appropriately recognized at this Keydet Club event. Speaking of Gary Trinkle, in June, he was down at his beach cottage in Duck, North Carolina, as part of his monthly check between renters (Mick Ernzen and I have been down that path and got the T-shirt with our properties at Lake Gaston). Gary finished early Class of 1974: Eating the senior Olymand went to lunch at the Blue Point in Duck. As pian breakfast of champions – Heat n’ Eat at the legendary Café Loveless MoGary was leaving, this lady yelled out his name. tel in Nashville, Tennessee – were Rich I am sure Gary thought, “Man, I owe these peoForbes, Ann Forbes, Susan Telle and seple some serious money.” Small world. It turns nior Olympian Ted Telle. out that it was Penny and Dave Stormont with their son, Ryan, and his fiancée. I understand Balfour claim form which he had to leave sevthey spent the next 30 minutes chatting. As I eral areas blank with explanation, not having recall, it was not too long ago that Marla and I the requisite documentation (original receipt, met Dave and Penny at the Blue Point for lunch. purchase price, exact details of the ring and I think Dave and Penny are gentry in Duck and stone) to get any insurance adjustment with must have some stake in the Blue Point – a great Balfour underwriters. Bill had hoped that Balvenue for a small world lunch story! four would have had archived paperwork on Since we are recalling tales on the Outer our class ring purchase when they took over the Banks, here is one. Terrell Williams thought John Roberts company. Not the case! Ring purhe had missed the annual outdoor adventure chase pricing for new ring: 14 karat gold ring: organized by John Savage and Tommy An$1,947.00; Additional costs: light aquamarine derson this year. Several BRs (including Pete stone: $422; dark aquamarine stone: $1,356; Shelley, Bob Benninger and others) had indiplus taxes and insurance. Bill had hoped to recated serious interest to gather Ocracoke Isplace the ring for free (or at least having to pay land, North Carolina, this summer for a a deductible). He is reconsidering since weekend adventure, but for Luke it was he’ll have to pay full retail. I admit, I do the same weekend that his daughter, Dolnot have my original paperwork and am ly, graduated from The Darden School at financial risk if I lose my ring. I am (Master of Business Administration at aware of the ring shrinkage problem that the University of Virginia), so he was unhas been going around. Given the above, able to attend. In fact, I had planned to I hesitate to send my ring to be resized for attend and found out Mike Cole would fear of loss. The fact is that replacement be on the island in his timeshare at the rings are not getting any less expensive. same time, and he planned to attend, as Thanks for providing the details of your well. In the January/February timeframe, plight, Bill. Very useful.

Arnie and Maria Leonard both retired Class of 1974: Gathered for Kerri Wilson’s birthday cel- there were perhaps 10-12 BRs planning to May 25, packed their household goods ebration in Harrisonburg, Virginia, Aug. 12, 2018, were, attend. When it came time to commit, it from left, Snookie Parker, Marla Parker, Tommy Anderturned that out, for a variety of legitimate and moved into their new home in Wilmson, Mollie Anderson, Page Kastelberg, Ricky Kastelreasons, only Tommy Anderson and Pete ington, North Carolina. They are now berg, birthday girl Kerri and T.J. Wilson.

Shelley could make the weekend, so the only a few miles from their daughter,

108

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes adventure was cancelled. Maybe next year, Luke!

On a more positive note, Terrell was able to attend Gene Williams’ College Orientation Workshop (www.cow4life.org) fundraiser at the Country Club of Virginia in May and claims it was an outstanding event. Donnie Ross and Craig Carlock were also there. All were able to see the positive impact that Gene’s COW program has had on young men for the past 31 years. Terrell said the heavy rains kept them off the golf course, but it was a great experience nonetheless.

Rich and Ann Forbes live in Franklin, Tennessee, which is just outside Nashville, so there is a high probability they will see several BRs passing through. On June 26, Rich and Ann dined with Ted and Susan Telle at a Nashville, Tennessee, landmark: The Café Loveless Motel. Ted was in town to swim in the 2018 Tennessee Senior Olympics. Ted swam in three events this year and got two bronze medals and one silver! Ted said there was a new younger (must have been 60) guy who smoked everyone. Great news, however; Ted has qualified to swim in the Nationals in 2019 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, next June. Well done, Ted! Just about a week later, Phil and Randy Parker decided to spend their 31st wedding anniversary dinner with Rich and Ann. Rich and Ann didn’t know that until they were seated at the table with them. Needless to say, the Forbeses were honored. By the way, if you have not seen Rich Forbes’ “A Father’s Day Note for every VMI Dad and His Son,” you should see it: https://vimeo.com/anthempictures/review/274115473/ca3fa7b4c0 Wilson and Anne Johnson are thrilled; their daughter and son-in-law and their two children moved from South Carolina to Fredericksburg to take a job in town. Wilson is thrilled with this good news; however, the bad news is Wilson won’t be going by Parker’s Barbecue as often. So, for the Johnsons, along with their son and his wife, the whole family is in town! What a blessing. Wilson’s local theater career is bubbling along. Wilson was in a production of “The Sound of Music” in Fredericksburg playing the butler. Also, in the show was Dale Shrader ’77, who played the bishop and Adm. Von Schreiber. Dale’s wife, Carole, was the production manager. Also appearing in the play as Frau Schmidt was Anne Lloyd, wife of Trip Lloyd ’81. I guess it could have been “The Sound of VMI.” In June, Wilson

2018-Issue 4

and Anne traveled first to Staunton and then to Lexington. They met up with Brother Rat Tom Eberly and his wife, Susan, for lunch and drove around post. Wilson says Tom and Susan are doing well. Tom is retired from working with the state of Virginia and also the National Guard. In July, Wilson and Anne went to Pittsburgh and Cleveland with a couple from church on a trip to visit baseball stadiums. On the way to Pittsburgh they stopped by Washington, Pennsylvania, and spent the afternoon with Jon and Patti Mounts. Jon and Patti are doing well. Wilson was thrilled that Jon let him drive his restored 1971 Corvette. Thanks for the note, Wilson.

Paul Van Doren spoke with Sam Turner in July about his medical transplant situation.

Sam reported his condition has been noticeably deteriorating, which is contributing to the delay he has been enduring. The final decision to not give Sam a transplant has not been made. A committee gave him a go, but the surgeon/case worker decided on her own to overrule them. His latest appointment was with the chief of all these folks, who told him he is a go.

Paul believes the confusion is possible because he is assigned to a center and not to a particular doctor. Prayers for Sam. We learned that John Williams’ wife, Linda, is having similar issues.

She is also a transplant candidate. She was initially told she was too old for a transplant. That turned out to be a policy issue with one particular facility. Other facilities do not have such rules. Linda and John are patiently waiting to qualify for a transplant soon – patience not being one of John’s long suits. Prayers for Linda!

Chip Beaman reports that the Tidewater area breakfast club had their annual dinner, with spouses, at Decoys Restaurant in Suffolk June 9. In attendance were Paul and Rose Van Doren, Chip and Cathy Beaman, Al and Judy Rasper, Bill and Debra Renee Pennypacker, John and Diane McLaren, Steve and Anne Ham, George and Anna Van Laethem, Frank and Jeanee Richardson, Clint and Cheryl Anderson, Don and Carolyn Sharpe, and Henry Moncure. The group was particularly pleased that Don and Carolyn and Clint and Cheryl were able to make the trip down to join them.

They enjoyed a very nice buffet dinner in their own private room and had a very enjoyable time catching up and talking about old times.

According to Chip, there is just nothing like the

Class of 1974: Attending the June Keydet Club Leadership Outing were Donnie Ross, Terrell “Luke” Williams, Gary Trinkle, Mark Prentice and Craig “Snapper” Carlock. “brother rat spirit.” Thanks for the note, Chip!

I heard John F.W. Caldwell has recently taken a new position with Northrup Grumman.

Congrats, JFW, and good luck on your new adventure.

On Aug. 4, Marla and I joined Kent and Brenda “Wheels” Wheeless at the North Carolina Central/Raleigh VMI Alumni Chapter rat sendoff at the Carolina Mudcat stadium. A healthy crowd enjoyed hotdogs and hamburgers with all the fixings, a doubleheader and fireworks after. Prospective cadets, returning cadets and their respective families thoroughly enjoyed warm hospitality displayed by the alumni at the venue. Kudos to Kent for coordinating such an outstanding event for alumni, family and friends. By the way, Kent is supposedly retired but seems to be working almost full-time as a referee/umpire for volleyball, baseball and softball at the middle and high school level. Brenda is on short final for retirement while working in accounting in the Rocky Mount hospital. All is well with the Wheeless clan.

Class of 1974: Attending the College Orientation Workshop combination auction, luncheon and fundraiser May 18, 2018, were Terrell “Luke” Williams, Donnie Ross, “Mean” Gene Williams, Craig “Snapper” Carlock and “Marvelous” Marvin Watts.

109

Class Notes Jim DeFord wished he could make the Aug.11 Potomac area breakfast club meeting; however, he had to decline as he was in Charlottesville with the Virginia State Police to help police the Unite the Right anniversary weekend. Jim laments that the First Amendment can sure get messy at times.

Jim was to be back in northern Virginia Sunday, Aug. 12, for round two. Hang in there, Jim – retirement is just around the corner.

The Potomac area breakfast club had a nice gathering Aug. 11. Around the table were Clint Anderson, Kirk Dennis ’95, Jim Huddle, Rich Donohue, Bill McDonald, Charles Gardner, Mike Andriani, Wilson Johnson and Charley Banning, all under the adult supervision of Debbie Banning (aka SWMBO). “Space” Huddle came up from OBX to haunt the crew. He’s been enjoying the North Carolina beach environs and gets together with Andy Young frequently. Charlie Gardner reported that Linda is doing better with her lumbar fusion; the pain is gone. Charlie is getting his right knee replaced in November.

Charley and Deb Banning went to a Washington Nationals game in June. It was cancer survivor month, and the Nationals were honoring survivors. Turns out Gov. Ralph Northam ’81 was on the field while the Bannings were there, so Charley muscled his way past his handlers to speak with him. Charley said Gov. Northam very graciously spent some time with them before his ceremonial first pitch. The plan for the next breakfast gathering is in Fredericksburg. They are hoping to capture some of the more southerly BRs (e.g., Bill Shumate, R.C. Thompson, Gene Rice, Glenn Greene, et. al).

In addition, they are thinking that it would be fun to combine forces with the Tidewater boys possibly finding a spot near Richmond that might attract some of the Richmond BRs as well as those of Tidewater and ground zero.

Thanks, Charley!

On Aug. 12, Marla and I joined T.J. Wilson and a couple of hundred of the Wilson family and friends to celebrate Kerri Wilson’s 50th birthday party in Harrisonburg, Virginia.

Ricky and Page Kastelberg and Tommy and Mollie Anderson (both recently retired, Tommy in December and Mollie in May) were on hand to provide an appropriate old yell for Kerri. Kudos to T.J. for coordinating such a special event for Kerri.

The life record of Virginia Tech versus VMI is 11-3. T’was a trick question. VPI versus VMI

110

is 38-25. VPI changed its name to Virginia Tech by 1970.

Robert “Moose” Haskell was the first to sign in Aug. 20, 1970. J.B. Smith was the last to sign in as rat No. 380. Now you know!

I understand Steve Fisher had the “New Faces in the Corps - 1970” professionally scanned and has sent a copy to Charley Banning on a thumb drive with pages perfectly preserved. Charley will share if anyone is interested. Gene Rice provided a file copy of our May 10, 1974, graduation program listing 212 graduates that day; I believe 196 of those registering Aug. 20, 1970, were listed in the program.

Save the date reminder: The reunion is Nov. 1-3, 2019 – be there or be square!

Reach out to us at 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

Summer is almost over, which makes fall and fall sports just around the corner. So, by the time you all read this, we will already know those sporting outcomes. It has been a busy summer for our family, as we have been undergoing renovations at our Georgia residence.

Long story short, my efforts to acquire a general contractor did not work out, as that area of north Georgia is undergoing a building boom and there was not much interest in a small job, so I undertook that role, as well as the plumber (scary) and the electrician (scarier). All worked out, and the kitchen and baths look great. Just as that finished and we thought we could rest for a second, our aged van with a quarter of a million miles on it decided it was done. So on the road, away from home and in another state, we had to buy a new van. Not necessarily the best way to do things, but we got it done. But enough about our fun times this summer.

This seems to have been the time for weddings this year for several of you. To start off,

Allen and Sandy Morgan’s son, Justin, was married to Miss Abigail Lucinda Bunce May 19 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Both Justin and Abigail are lawyers, and they met while attending law school at Northwestern University. The Morgans did not venture above the Mason-Dixon Line alone, as they had a cadre of BRs with them, as well as Sandy’s father, Frank Spencer ’53. BRs attending were Robert Mills, Andy Dearman, Billy Hunter, Bobby Hunter, Mike Hunter, Tom Baur and Ron Bongiovanni. I was told that during the photo sessions, Mary Love Dearman (of VMI cheerleader fame) and Sandy’s father, Frank, broke out in an Old Yell for the couple. Oh, those rowdy boys and girls from VMI. Rich McFarland served in the role as father of the bride at the wedding of his daughter, Kate, to Kevin Brzozowski over the Memorial Day weekend at George Washington’s River Farm in Alexandria, Virginia. Kate is Maco’s eldest daughter, and as he puts it, this was the first of his three walks down the aisle. Maco says that he is still getting calls from Kate to come over and fix things around the house, and Mac has to remind her that is the job of her husband now. Hang in there, Rich. In June, Maco met up with Paul Bernard in Warrenton for a couple of brews and light dinner and had a great time catching up. Next on Rich’s dance card is to visit with Vic and Tricia Arthur in Winchester. Rich also made his annual pilgrimage to his brother-in-law’s ranch in Montana and is happy to report that all machinery that he operated this year – to include a square bailer, a round bailer and rake – are still in full working order. He says he even turned out some usable hay bales this year. Maco even had time to get in some fishing on the Chesapeake but as of yet was unable to land any whoppers, as he puts it.

On June 2 on Kiawah Island, Mike Hunter’s son, Budge Hunter ’10, married Stephanie Mitchell. Never a dull moment, as a storm interrupted this outside wedding and all had to be moved inside. I am told that there were many of our BRs there, and you may want to check out the notes for Budge’s class, 2010, to get more details.

Finally Ken Gerard’s oldest son, Daniel, was married to Heather Adams in April in Cincinnati. Ken reports that it was a busy time but a lot of fun. Ken’s summer has been full of family activities, such as being at his grandnephew’s

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Little League games and helping their parents fix up their house to sell as they were buying another. Ken’s youngest son, Eric, is working on a degree in civil engineering at UC, as he has come to the conclusion that athletic trainer pay can’t support his lifestyle.

On June 8, five of our BRs and their wives attended the Montana mini reunion hosted

by Charlie and Sharon Hoon at their home near Missoula, Montana. Those attending were Rick and Stella Davison, Fred and Sun Edwards, Paul Bernard, and Guy and Mary Conte. Also attending was Chris Schrichte ’82 who lives in Missoula. Fred hit the nail on the head when he wrote, “I can’t tell you how enjoyable it was to see you folks this weekend. It was especially nice to meet the ladies, as well.

I’ve never been much on reunions as such, but weekends like these remind me of just how important the people in our lives really are. Careers and accomplishments are all fine, but the people are what count most.” Well said, BR. Big thanks to Charlie; Sharon; Charlie’s sister, Barbara; and their niece, Kristen, for their efforts on putting this together. Stay tuned for more mini reunions, as Bill Terpeluk is heading up a committee to plan more of these informal gatherings around the country.

In late June, Bill and Delores Overton and Chip and Kathy Louthan took a cruise to Alaska. Bill writes that their trip began in Anchorage, and they headed north for three days observing the grandeur and splendor of untouched Alaska. The highlight of this portion of the trip was seeing Denali National Park.

Next was a scenic train ride to their ship in Whittier to begin the seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. They were close to many of the pristine giant glaciers, including the Hubbard and Mendenhall Glaciers. Bill says that during both the cruise and land portions of their trip, they had to opportunity to observe the wildlife of Alaska – whales, moose, bear, caribou and bald eagles. Of course, Kathy, being a “birder,” was able to take many photos of the birds of Alaska. As they traveled south, they visited the small towns of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway before disembarking in Vancouver. All four said that it was an amazing and beautiful trip, and they recommend it to anyone who hasn’t been to Alaska. Bill and Delores also stay very busy visiting and taking care of their grandchildren, all of whom

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1975: John Costa, John Crenshaw and Greg Stultz got together at the Costa residence in Roanoke, Virginia, in late July to tell old and new stories.

Class of 1975: Billy Kobus, Jerry DeWaters and Guy Conte met for dinner at the Pier 115 Bar and Grill in Edgewater, New Jersey, in early August.

are under the age of 6.

Rick Henning remains as busy as ever. He tells me that he has become a regular at the Raleigh VMI alumni breakfast meetings but says he is the youngest alumnus there. In June, he attended both the Black Bear Festival in Plymouth, North Carolina, and the Croaker Festival in Oriental, North Carolina, where the Embers was the musical attraction at each event.

He and Suzanne continue their winning ways with tickets to events where they received admittance to the Tar River Symphony featuring Larry Gatlin and admittance to see the Wilson Tobs, a Coastal Plain College development baseball team that plays in the historic Wilson Stadium in Wilson, North Carolina. They also opened their house to two young members from Uganda of the visiting Immani Mele Children’s Choir while they were performing in Rocky Mount. Rick’s youngest son, Sam, completed his pet care certification at Work Source East in Greensboro and will be moving to Raleigh at the end of August to begin work with Pet Supplies Plus. In July, Rick, Suzanne and Sam traveled to Texas for two weeks and took in the sights. They visited the Fort Worth Stock Yards, the Federal Reserve, attended the Cochran family reunion and visited the Baylor University campus where Suzanne attended college, as well as the house Suzanne lived in and the church that they were married in Commerce, Texas. Suzanne and Sam finally spent three extra days in Dallas to attend the National Down Syndrome Congress Convention. Suzanne has taken on a job as an assistant in helping international students transition to college life. Rick continues with Chick Fil-A and has been promoted to the dining room hospitality trainer. Rick takes in as many Carolina Mudcat games as he can and enjoys meeting up with his grandchildren at these games, where Rick has a knack for being able to get player autographs. The

month of August marks his third anniversary of his hip replacement, and as you can see, it does not slow him down at all. Keep it up, Rick; you are an inspiration to us all.

John Costa wrote to let me know that that he and Sheila so appreciate all of the thoughts and prayers for them as they continue to meet the challenges of Parkinson’s disease. In July, they had the opportunity to attend the Roanoke rat send-off and were able to meet the 12 area incoming cadets that were to begin the VMI experience in August. In late July, he and Sheila hosted John Crenshaw and Greg Stultz where stories were told, both old and new.

Speaking of Matriculation, it was 47 years ago that we began our VMI experience.

Glenn Garland has also kept busy this summer. He first started out by attending the Unitarian Universalist Church camp at Cullowhee, North Carolina, for a week. After that he, Jim Seitz and four other friends undertook a bicycle trip down the Great Allegheny Passage Trail that runs from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, Maryland. Glenn says that this was a relatively easy trip, as it is flat for the 150-mile length that passes through small towns affording a verity of eating and lodging options. Glenn offers this up as a possible mini reunion option for the future. Later, Glen was invited back to the National Guard unit that he retired from last August to visit for their July drill. His unit presented him with several plaques and certificates, along with the Legion of Merit, which Glenn appreciated very much. Quite an honor, BR; congratulations.

Guy Conte was on the road this summer and was able to stop in New York City and play some golf with Jerry DeWaters and Bernie Cobb. He and Jerry were also able to meet up with Bill Kobus in Edgewater, New Jersey, for dinner at the Pier 115 restaurant that had a magnificent view of the New York skyline. Billy was

111

Class Notes

Class of 1975: At Rich McFarland’s daughter’s wedding Memorial Day weekend were, from left, Maco, mother of the bride Peggy, bride Kate McFarland and maid of honor Kelly McFarland.

Class of 1975: Bill Overton and Chip Louthan on shore leave during their cruise to Ketchikan, Alaska. then headed down to Florida to celebrate his three-year anniversary with Natasha.

Oliver and Bonnie Way advised that they now have been presented with their fifth grandchild, Frances (CeCe) Way, born to Lawton and Shelton Way ’05. Oliver tells me that they spend a lot of time with the grandchildren. After his retirement this past spring, he and Bonnie are devoting their time to the grandchildren, travel and nonprofit boards, and he was just appointed to the Essex Bank Board, which is a community bank based in Richmond. And, of course, a little more golf.

Bo Temple reports that he and Nancy are enjoying living in the Richmond area. Bo continues to do consulting work and he also serves on several boards. He had lunch with Lawton Way ’05 and says that Lawton is doing very well and that it was great to catch up with him.

He also was able to see Greg Seldon in May while he was attending a conference in Kansas City, Missouri. He was also supposed to be in Phoenix in mid-June and hoped to catch up with Guy Conte. Bo is still fighting the “big C,” but he says that he is hanging in there. He

112

and Nancy really appreciate all the prayers sent their way.

Tad MacGowan sent me an update, and he and his family have been on the go. Tad’s future plans are to enter into a quasi-retirement in October of this year. He plans to cut back his schedule from five to three days per week.

Fortunately, his company is interested in retaining his services in a reduced capacity, so this will work for both parties. Tad says that the big event for him so far this year was a 10day trip out west in May to be with his three daughters and take in several of the western national parks. The deal was that the daughters arranged everything, and Tad just had to show up and drive. Tad flew into Phoenix, picked up the rental van and drove two hours to Tucson to pick up his daughter, Calee. Then it was a six-hour drive to San Diego to pick up daughters Kathryn and Ginny. The next day, they traveled six hours to Yosemite and spent three days marveling at the never-ending beauty of the park. They had perfect weather, and all of the falls were flowing and all of the trails were open. They saw an abundance of wildlife including rattlesnakes, bears and coyotes. Next on the agenda was a trip south to Sequoia for another three-day stint in an old CCC cabin that belongs to the forest department. It proved to be Spartan living, but it had the essentials – beds, heat, kitchen and hot and cold running water, which the mice and ants generously shared with them. When finished there, they did the return drive and spent a day in San Diego and a day in Tucson before returning to Phoenix to fly home. They put 2,500 miles on the van, but as Tad says, anytime an East Coast guy gets a chance to see the western U.S., it is all interesting. Tad reports that Bev’s youngest daughter, Brittni, has returned from a year of around the world traveling with her husband and is settling back into a working woman’s life.

Daughters Calee and Ginny took a two-and-ahalf week trip to India to attend friends’ weddings. Tad and Bev are pondering if there are any plans in their future to move closer to their kids, as six of seven are now west of the Mississippi. So far the answer for them is still in Annapolis. Thanks, Tad, for the great update.

Over the few years that I have been your class agent, I have had the pleasure of relaying stories that I receive from some of you regarding adventures and time with family. The following

is one of those stories that falls into the category of doing hikes with sons. Actually, we have had several of these, such as the hike up House Mountain with Greg Diamontopulos and his son, Peter Diamontopulos ’13 (2015); Elmo Shiflett and his son, Owen, hiked on the Colorado Trail (2016); and finally, Rick Hening and his son, Sam, hiked at Chimney Rock State Park (2016). What follows is a second installment in the annual Shiflett father/son hike adventures. In the interest of space, I usually rewrite the stories, but in this case, since I have the space and Elmo is a published novelist, I chose to let Elmo’s words prevail. It is far better than I could do. May I present the 2018 version of the Shiflett father/son hiking adventure by Elmo Shiflett.

“I’ve got to tell you about my recent father/ son hike this past week. Our normal camping and hike area is the Colorado Trail. It runs between Denver and Durango. This year, my son couldn’t take time off, so we decided at the last minute to do our hike in the San Gabriel Mountains near Los Angeles. Well, this is where it gets interesting. We know the trail is 21 miles, and without water, it’s a very aggressive hike. We aren’t familiar with the trail and we have no details when the trail turns or goes up or down, but because we have done so much trail hiking, we weren’t worried about those details since trails are always marked – right? It appears that we got off track within the first mile. We’re on a trail, but it’s going into a gorge versus on the side of a mountain and going up. We have to find the trail and decide to go up the mountain. I have no idea how far we went up the mountain, but we never found the path. So, we decide to go down. This mountain is almost vertical in many places.

Doing this was quite dangerous and stupid and was really right up my alley! My son grabs a dead root and falls down a slope. He’s cut up on his legs but still in one piece. I’m hanging on a rock cliff thinking I can just rock climb down hand-over-hand with no training or experience.

Again, this thinking is in my wheelhouse of expertise, thinking I can do anything without prior knowledge just by looking at it. You can now imagine how surprised I was when I find I can’t go down, right or up. The rocks are too loose, and the trees are fragile. This is where I’m convinced that the prayers from our BRs came into play. On my left is a green tree about

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes their son close to home for a while. Ben and Anne made a stop on their way home in Tuscaloosa for some Dreamland ribs and a detour to Lynchburg, Tennessee.

Thanks to all of you who sent me updates and pictures. Until next time, my brothers.

Rah Virginia Mil, Bob

1976

William Bhatta

Class of 1975: Allen and Sandy Morgan’s son, Justin, married Abigail Bunce in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, May 19, 2018. Pictured were, from left, Robert Mills; Allen Morgan; Abigail Morgan, bride; Justin Morgan, groom; Sandy’s father, Frank Spencer ’53; Andy Dearman; Billy Hunter; and Bobby Hunter.

6 inches in diameter that is bent over to the ground about 50 feet below. I get the idea to rappel down the sheer cliff using the tree as the rope. My son is now yelling to throw my pack down to ease my way out of the situation. I didn’t for two reasons: One, it would be risky to try to take it off. Second, I may need it to soften the blow in case my whole plan goes south. I shift myself to that tree and grab it so I can use my feet as the force against cliff. Here’s a couple of things that I didn’t think about: 1.) I had a lot of added weight – age and pack related – since I left the Institute, which was the last time I did any rapelling. 2.) A tree is much thicker than a rope, and with branches, it makes it extremely hard to grab a new hold while holding on with your other hand. 3.) With the other two issues, the second Law of Newton, a force in motion will remain in motion, became my fear. I did land on my feet though a little too fast, but my pack saved me from getting too banged up. After we both got back to the gorge, we went a little further and decided that, after six hours, we didn’t have the energy or water to finish, so we hiked out. I’m serious by saying someone’s prayer gave that guidance to me to use a tree to rappel down a cliff. The weekend was a success, since we spent time together and have a great story to share. That hike will be tackled at a later (much later) date.” Elmo, we are all so thankful that you and Owen survived your annual event. We can’t wait for next year’s installment, and thank you for a great story.

Speaking of Greg Diamontopulos, he sent

2018-Issue 4

a note saying that all is going well. His son, Peter Diamontopulos ’13, has PCS’d from Portsmouth, Virginia, to Alameda, California, where he is assigned to the USCGC Waesche (WMSL-751). After signing in at Alameda, he traveled to Seattle, Washington, and reported onboard his ship, which is currently under overhaul in the shipyard. Once the work is complete, the ship will undergo sea trials and presumably return to Alameda. Greg’s daughter, Kristina, and her husband, Jason, are busy raising their two daughters Cassandra (10 years old) and Savannah (9 months old). Kristina works in a pain management clinic in Williamsburg, Virginia, and has found out that the doctor that she works for is the brother of Bob Newman ’73. Small world. Greg and Melody are both doing well and will be celebrating their 41st wedding anniversary this coming October.

Greg says that they have been considering his retirement and has been conversing with Ellett Smith, who will be retiring from Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency and the civil service ranks this coming fall. Greg wants to work another two years until, as he puts it, he “figures out what I want to do when I grow up.”

Ben Vanderberry relays that he and Anne were in Mississippi for the winging ceremony of their son, Ben Vanderberry ’15. They continued the celebration in Nashville with Ben and his fiancée, Elisha, before Ben is relocated to Oceana in Virginia Beach for F-18 flight training. The parents are happy to have

Summer note doldrums continue. These short notes were written Aug. 15, 2018.

By the time you get the next issue of the Alumni Review, J.R. Mott and family will be living in your neck of the woods. J.R. completed his civilian duty assignment in Stuttgart, Germany, and will be working at Fort Belvoir.

(Attention all BRs living in northern Virginia.)

Mark Sculley will be retired and living with his family in the Salt Lake City, Utah, area.

(Attention Jerry Eggleston.)

Dick Williams reported in from Tel Aviv, Israel. Dick moved to Israel last August to take a civilian job in the U.S. Embassy Defense Attaché Office. Ruth (his wife) joined him last October after moving their stuff into storage, renting their home in Virginia and taking care of her mom. Dick said, “I am enjoying being back in the same office in which I spent four years as an Army attaché in the 1990s. Returning to Israel always was a desire of mine. I had to take a two-grade reduction to get the job, but I intend for this to be my retirement job.” Dick and his wife returned to the U.S. in March for the graduation of their son, Michael ’16, from Ranger School – hooah! Michael is a heavy weapons platoon leader in the 82nd Airborne Division.

I bumped into Ray Brooks, Jim Dittrich and Jim Joustra at VMI during a joint class agent/ Alumni Association event in June. These BRs continue to serve the Alumni Association with distinction in a variety of roles.

I also ran into Rocky Glass and extended family this summer at a local restaurant in Midlothian, Virginia. The hostess placed Michelle and I at a table right next to them; she had ’76 on her mind.

113

Class Notes

Class of 1976: Wayne Eastham, Lang Meem, Dyke Davies and Dexter Gilliam caught up at The Homestead in June 2018.

As for myself, not much has changed. Michelle stays busy watching our local grandchild and painting rocks. Yes, I said painting rocks.

I am still working at Altria and enjoying it, but those days will start drawing to a close within the next 12-16 months. I am preparing for my next life as an RV fifth wheeler, so do not be surprised if I pull up into your front yard for a friendly visit in my F-250 truck with a 34-foot trailer behind it. The kids continue to prosper: David ’06 is a major stationed at Fort Bragg.

David and his family adopted Grant, a 2-yearold boy, last December. He’s cool and has transitioned into his new family quickly. Grant is going to be a middle linebacker in college someday. Laura is expecting her second baby girl this December, and Allison is enjoying work/life out in Boulder, Colorado.

That’s it for now. Take care, and please stay in touch!

Class of 1977: Class members gathered at the Homestead for golf on the Old Course were Ed Anderson, Tom Underhill, Jim Bentley, Joe Santelli, Ralph George, Steve Billingsley and Kerry Mullin.

1977

Mark Bryant

Class of 1976: Doug Johnson, Greg Speaker and Gary Knight did some catching up when they got together in Charleston, South Carolina.

Class of 1976: Dick and Ruth Williams stood on the Golan Heights in December 2017. Dick moved to Israel last August to take a civilian job in the U.S. Embassy’s Defense Attaché Office.

114

Hello, Brother Rats, I am submitting these notes here at VMI during August, a few days before the Class of “19+3” reports to Matriculation. You all will see them this winter in the Alumni Review. I do not remember using the class designator “+3” during our cadet years. Just the references to the rat mass. Not sure if I remember correctly, but in any case, the convention has become common use in referring to the new cadets until they breakout. Matriculation and cadre seems to have become even more of an annual enterprise than I remember, as well. The cadre and other “early returns” come back a full week before matriculation for their own training and preparation. The commandant has a new Corps sergeant major on his staff (retired Marine Corps), so that has become a new fixture, as well, since Sgt. Maj. Hockaday first came aboard in the early ’90s. (Most of us remember him as the “Gunny”). Some of the early return athletes are already here, with women’s soccer reporting earliest, followed quickly by football. The new dean (Brig. Gen. Moreschi), has made the move from the economics and business department head to Smith Hall, and faculty/staff

Class of 1977: Ed Anderson, Ralph George and Joe Santelli headed to Key West to investigate golf courses.

Class of 1977: Chris and Katherine Manno at a race in Texas this past summer. uniforms are back in style.

I was sadly unable to join a cohort of BRs here in June to play some golf in Lexington, the Homestead and Roanoke and to hang out in Moody Hall. They had to reschedule from May due to heavy rain. Kerry Mullin organized

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1977: Champion fishermen Tom Underhill, Bruce Cann, J.J. Marshall, John Pace and Hobie Andrews bested the representatives of the Class of ’79. this “poor man’s Vegas” event, and it looked to be a huge success. They sent in some pictures to prove they were allowed on the Old Course at the Homestead. Obviously, the management had no idea who they were! Here is hoping that this becomes yet another regular event for getting together in between “official” reunions. Coming to Lexington when it is quiet here on post seems like a good time to come.

I attended the class agent/alumni chapter heads meeting held by the Alumni Association here in June and found it to be very useful and well done. We heard from a wide variety of the staff in the Foundation, the Keydet Club and the Alumni Association about fundraising, event planning, reunion planning, Alumni Review and other publications. I was most impressed with the way that each of the alumni organizations emphasized and spoke with one voice. I have the impression that Steve Maconi, the new chief executive officer, is providing some good leadership for the overall effort.

I have heard from a few BRs lately, which I am always glad to have since it makes writing these notes much easier.

Rich Howell, Doug Simms, Steve Kelly, Kip Hamilton and I’m sure several other BRs pedaled away on their road bikes to complete a century ride (100 miles) in October. The Alumni Association thought this Class of ’77 initiative such a good idea that they jumped in and sponsored it as an alumni event! I should have updated information and some pictures for the next Review!

Chris Manno has not been letting the heat wave slow him down. See the picture of him and his wife participating in a summer run at home in Texas. It is good to know some of us can still run. Chris is still writing novels and

2018-Issue 4

flying and teaching and stuff. Maybe he will slow down one day, but I doubt it.

I was happy to see Steve Kelly passing through last month. We got to spend some time catching up at my place and around Lexington. He had just come from a memorial service for his dad in Pulaski. Steve is doing very well, and he and Mauri seem to be enjoying the retired life in North Carolina.

Buster Pace checked in to let me know that fishing went well in what seems to be another victory for our ’77 BRs over the competition from ’79 grads. Glad to know we can still win out over the younger guys.

Ed Anderson, Ralph George and Joe Santelli heard a rumor that one could find a golf course in Key West. So ace aviator Ed fired up his private craft, and they verified the rumor. No report on the quality of the golf game or anything else they may have verified while in Key West.

I hope that I will have seen some of you recently on post for our mini reunion and tailgate.

There should be some photos and notes in the next issue. If any of you pass by Lexington or the area, do let me know. I will be teaching a biology course on post this fall, and I am always nearby. It is always great to see any and all, and I am soliciting photos both old and new from all.

RVM, Mark

1978

Tom Brown

Greetings, Brother Rats!

I hope all have had a great summer and are enjoying a fantastic fall. It is hard to believe we are now considered senior alumni. I got my invitation to attend our local senior alumni get together and thought it had to do with turning 62; nope, once a class hits the 40th Reunion, you earn the title. I guess we are no longer the young guys on the block. The status from around the class follows.

Johnny Garrett: “Greetings from the Pacific Northwest. Still standing upright and moving with a purpose.”

Chris Stone: “All right. No new news from Virginia Beach. Summer is just flying by, and

I have not spent nearly enough time sitting on the beach. Starting to think about ‘retirement’ and what’s next. A couple of years away, but never too early to start planning for it. I had a colleague retire a couple of years ago and recently met him at an Old Dominion University football game. I asked how things were going, and he said that, after a year of retirement, he and his wife had to make a pact to not start drinking till 5 p.m.! Is that what I have to look forward to?”

Cliff Seibel: “All’s well here in Alaska – still in North Pole. My son graduated from high school this year and is currently in Germany with his mother. He’ll be back later this month and start at a local mine driving a rock truck.

I’m still enjoying retirement but still busy – lots of work around the property. And I’m coaching football again this year. We started out winning our first game, 27-12. Small school – team of only 18. Had 16 suited up this past weekend. And here, away games are real road trips – logged in 980 miles round trip. In two weeks, our next away game will be around 1,200 miles. We travel with two vans and a pickup truck for gear. You learn things you really don’t want to know when cooped up that long with a group of teenagers! I have been in touch with Bill Morris and Bob Gansauer. Bill and family are still in New Jersey and Bob and family are in Colorado. Both seem to be doing well. Best to all, and look me up if you’re ever up here on the edge of civilization!”

Jay Branscome: “I still haven’t seen my name in obituaries, so everything is ‘all right.’”

Tim Berkhimer: “All right, sir! Still hanging down at the beach; all is good.”

Ken Singleton: “I’m spending a few days in Golden, Colorado, enjoying some of the summer

Class of 1978: Brother Rats Bill Bailey and Tim Fredrikson at Pro Re Nata Farm Brewery in Crozet, Virginia.

115

Class Notes here. I am still working at Express Scripts. Status here is ‘All right.’”

John Forsyth: “Alive and well. I am starting school (graduate) in a few weeks. Determined to lift the VMI GPA – a true challenge.”

Ron Lee: “Reporting ‘all right’ – looking forward to meeting again.”

Clyde Long: “All is well. Enjoyed seeing everyone at the reunion!”

Jim Mackin: “Still alive and well here in northern Virginia. Regina and I recently hung out with Bruce and Marcia Kay and Tony and Monica Pileggi at Bruce’s neighborhood pool and his house for a great cookout!”

Ronnie Milligan: “Great seeing everyone at the reunion. My report is that Steve Oddi, Jerry Harris, Shady Grove, Ronnie Milligan and wives went on a Danube River cruise in June.

We visited four countries starting our trip in Budapest and ending in Nuremberg. In spite of a bum knee and a few extra pounds, Ox Oddi was able to keep up with all the activities which included a lot of walking, biking, hiking and, of course, late night drinking. It was a great time had by all and is highly recommended!

Jerry Placzek: “Still here, still kickin’.”

Nelson Curtis: “All right.”

Tim Fredrickson: “Greetings from Charlottesville! Despite all of the stupidity in this town, my status check is all right! Also, I went to a concert at the Pro Re Nata Brewery in Crozet the other night and had a very pleasant encounter! The bass player for the Isabel Bailey Band is none other than our BR Bill Bailey!

His daughter is the lead singer, and Bill plays a mean bass and banjo, as well! It was a wonderful evening, and despite the fact that he was in the band, I still had time to catch up with him!

Rah Virginia Mil ’78!”

Bob Magnan: “A momentous event occurred: My son won an argument with me. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree from Rutgers and was working as a legislative aide. Unfortunately, his boss (state assembly member) left under dubious circumstances. Her bid for Congress was ended, as was his budding career. He then began working on a Master of Arts degree at Rutgers with an emphasis on Middle Eastern studies. Long story short, adding up all the advice he got from professors, he figured out the quickest and cheapest way to learn Arabic, a necessary skill for any state department, CIA or similar analyst’s job: Join the Army and go

116

to language school. He came to me, and I told him he was nuts. But after going over it, the only way he could get exactly what he wanted was to enlist and go intel. Officer Candidate School couldn’t guarantee that his first choice would be honored. Get this: Three-and-a-halfyears of active duty, of which eight weeks is basic, 16 is intel school, and 64 (in Monterey, California) is the language school. He’s practically halfway through his enlistment before they get any work out of him! It also gives him enough credit hours from DLI to probably finish his master’s from Rutgers and puts him in range of his first promotion (E-5) and the ability to apply for CWO/intel or for OCS with a track record in a branch specialty. Oh, besides enlisting as a specialist 4, they also laid a $10,000 bonus on him. Where were those deals when we were young?”

Bil Greg: “All is well. Unfortunately, we are spending the summer fixing the house and spending lots of money! Basement water problems suck, especially since we are having record rainfall! Since the reunion, room 142 is doing better staying in touch. We had such a good time at the reunion I can’t stop thinking about it; in fact, all of those bad dreams keep coming back about not graduating and having to go back to finish one more physics course, Colonel Minnix (physics department) always looks the same! These are really funny dreams, because when I am in the dream, I am saying to myself, ‘This has got to be a bad dream!’

Luckily, I wake up every time, and it was a bad dream!”

Mike McCarthy: “I am up in Washington, D.C., for a couple of months supporting the design of the Army Futures Command. My office is two floors up from Bruce Kay. My time out at Fort Leonard Wood has been great.

While I am here in D.C., I will be camping out in Crystal City.”

Dave Colonna: “Still on board!”

Pat Wilson: “All right.”

Steve Powers: “Between stress and long commutes, I’m testing the retirement waters. To do so, I requested to go part-time, three days a week. I am still handling the safety and regulatory compliance for a bulk petroleum transportation company, which now includes liquefied natural gas – however, handing over some of the reins to my staff. If it works out, maybe I can last another three years to fully retire with

medical. If not, I can take early retirement this fall and sponge off Donna’s medical benefits.

Our grandson is the light of our lives and growing so fast. We are blessed to have our daughter live in the next town over in Derry. Our son is finally saying goodbye to bachelorhood and getting married this month. He and his bride, both graphic designers, will call northern Virginia home.”

Jay Hutt: “All good here. The big news is that son No. 2, John, became engaged in July, and he has relocated from Cleveland to Raleigh, North Carolina. Dayna Landry is a super young lady we happen to know very well, as she lived with us for 18 months after grad school, and it is a very good move for them back to the East Coast, in my opinion.

This puts a daughter and a son, along with a daughter-in-law-to-be, three hours south in Raleigh, and son No. 1 and his wife three hours north in D.C. – much better for the old folks. No date yet for the wedding – maybe fall 2019. Had a terrific visit over breakfast with Ken Blythe in Franklin in June. He and I went to rival high schools in that area but met before Matriculation when he, Bruce Mason and I took a recruiting trip to the ‘I’ our senior year – always a good time in his company. The 2018 dad-daughter trip with Sarah (which now includes Paula) was to three baseball games in Charlotte; Greenville, South Carolina; and Atlanta – a lucky man am I that my girls like baseball. Sons Ren and John, and my dad and I are on 2018 boys’ trip in Chicago as I write this – Cubs and White Sox games times three, along with a round of Top Golf and a little touristy stuff, so a fun trip. These two trips are certainly the highlight of my year. Paula and I are hosting two minor league baseball players again this summer and going to lots of their games here in Lynchburg. Take me out to the ballgame, and put me in, coach, I’m ready to play. Our 40th Reunion in April still brings a smile. Thank you again to all who worked to make it so much fun, and to all who made it to Lexington. It was great seeing all your faces.”

Bob Jenvey: “All here.”

Mark McKissick: “Still alive. Room 161 is assembling on the stoops of Tom Tanner’s house this weekend with all present and accounted for, including Greg Gearhart and Dave Lucado.”

Tom Booker: “All good here. Our oldest

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes daughter is adopting a 14-year-old from Latvia, bringing their troop to five kids and our total tribe to 17. Awesome! Pray you are well.”

Joe Cafarella: “All OK with me. Still retired and looking down at daisies, not up.”

Bruce Kay: “All is well on this end. Summer has been great, and if it wasn’t for work, it would have been perfect!”

Leland Horn: “Yep, all OK. Still here watching the gator drift by and eyeball me, got a bit of ‘toothy grin.’”

Jimmy Leech: “We’re ‘all right.’ Nothing new to report.”

Dick Powell: “I’m still here, aka all secure in Arizona.”

J.K. Whitmer: “All is well here in Tejas!”

Mike Eaton: “A big day for me, I retired after 36 years with BAE Systems. My wife and I plan to stay in Augusta, Georgia, and go back and forth between there and our vacation home in Beaufort, South Carolina.”

Mark Seely: “All right, sir! Still retired, still enjoying our little slice of paradise on San Francisco Bay, still chasing the little white ball around the pasture.”

Blaine Vorgan: “All is well here in Plainfield, Illinois. Wendy and I certainly had a great time at the Institute with our 40th Reunion. So much has changed with the ‘I,’ and yet so much remains the same. We really enjoyed interacting with my brother rats, as well as checking out VMI and downtown Lexington. In any event, take care.”

Ron Dolan: “All up, all right. We just returned from Ireland and the U.K. Saw BR Terry (Admiral) McKnight at Farnborough Air Show. We returned home to welcome our new granddaughter, Rylee Kae.” Chops Parker: “Great time at the reunion – thanks to all who pulled it together. Good to see those who have generally not attended over the years. I’m still in Riyadh working the Metro-Rail Project with Bechtel. Highly recommend a trip I recently took to France in the Champagne region. Absolutely loved it; yes, drank lots of Champagne, starting with breakfast.”

That concludes the status in the class.

Thanks for making your notes great. Now it is time to send more news for the next Review.

In the spirit, Tom/EZ Bear

2018-Issue 4

1979

Michael Ogden

Brother Rats, I open with the sad news that Sam “Nectar” Pace died quietly from cancer July 12. Tom “Beav” Herbert was there and says that Nectar was surrounded by his wife, Marion, and family and went peacefully. Many thanks to those of you who were able to attend his celebration and to those who contributed to the Wounded Warrior Project. Tom wrote, “It was a very nice service and a full church. Both of Nectar’s sons. Powell and Sam ’11, spoke, as did Michael Oden. There was a reception after the service in the church’s fellowship hall. The function at The Reserve was of the hang out and reminisce nature, and that we did! It not being far from their home, Marion had gone home and gotten into more casual clothes, and the libations and stories flowed! A lot of love for a top shelf guy.” You will be missed, brother rat.

Bill Albro writes, “It was great seeing everyone at Nectar’s service. Too many to name here without leaving a few out. I think we all agree that Mike Oden did a great job speaking to our collective loss and what a great guy

Nectar was and what a hole that is left with his passing. I will miss Nectar a lot; he was a most affable fellow, and we solved a lot of world problems over Budweiser between the hours of midnight and 2 a.m. at the class reunions. I got to sit between two of my roommates, Brad Jones and Reggie Sadler. It was great seeing them both. I miss talking with them and look forward to talking to them more when I retire.

Bill Smithson called me and wanted me to carry his condolences to Marion; he could not make the services from South Carolina. Before the services, I did my tithing of eclairs from Walls Bakery to Meade Spott’s house. Also delivered a few to Noel Harris, as I know he and mom Harris like them. Noel allowed me some ‘tractor therapy’ in moving a pile of rip rap a few months back at Elm Grove farm on the North river. The place is looking great and will be ready to rent soon, if not already. Sput Leadbetter and pup are in place for the summer at Antipoison Neck (White Stone). I am endeavoring to visit them before the summer is out. Also, I told Eric Nost at the services that I would look them up if/when I were around the Kilmarnock area. I am headed to Scotland for 10 days in August to visit my mom and all the aunts, uncles, cousins and such. Alyssa is going with me to see her cousins. That’s about all from the Albro front in southern Maryland.

Take care, all.”

Steve Lyon sends, “The big news for Beth and me thus far has been that our second

Class of 1979: Class members gathered for a northern Virginia/Maryland brother rat breakfast at Cracker Barrel in Manassas, Virginia, July 14, 2018. The group plans for a quarterly event, but a twice-a-year get together is the result. Present were, from left, front row, Doug Doerr, John Poffenbarger, Bill Albro, Curt McCabe and Tom Manley.

Back row: Brian Tollie, Rich McGruder, Eric Schwarz, Ed Johnson, Tim Bridges, Gleb Taran and Anthony Pais.

117

Class Notes

Class of 1979: Bob “Stosh” Morris on the equator in Ecuador sporting his ’79 35th Reunion shirt before visiting the Galapagos Islands with his son, R.J. Morris. granddaughter is expected Sept. 26! Our daughter, Sarah, and her husband, Mike, are attempting that most delicate situation of bringing on a newborn while getting No. 1 daughter, Jane, potty trained just in time. Jane is now two-and-a-half years old and just totally adorable in the toddler phase! I instantly transform into a nonstop laughing grandpa every time I am around Miss Jane! The little thing is talking up a blue streak these days, and apparently, she has a lot to say! She loves Sesame Street characters and a cartoon called ‘Peppa Pig!’ I know that Jane is also looking forward to having a little sister, and so are we! I wanted to attend Nectar Pace’s funeral last month.

However, Beth fell and suffered a broken upper left arm the week of the funeral. She is slowly recovering and still has only limited use of her left arm. Howard Adams was very nice to text me with a lot of details regarding the great turnout by Class of ’79. Nectar will be greatly missed. We are looking forward to the 40th Reunion next April. I have missed the previous two reunions and will make all efforts to make this one. BRs Truitt, Tudor and White had better show up, too!”

Jim Pigg received his Federal Aviation Administration Airworthiness Certification July 20. Because he built an experimental aircraft (RV-7), he must complete 40 hours of test flying before he can take someone else up. The only pilots allowed to fly are Jim and his RV-7 CFI. The word “experimental” sticks out to me – just sayin’!

John Colonna pens, “Our news for the notes is that our daughter, Debbie, got engaged this month to Matt Concha. He’s in the Navy and assigned to the Eisenhower. Wedding will be next summer.”

“Lame” news (his words, not mine) from

118

Class of 1979: Brother rats joined Marion Pace at the celebration of life for her husband, Brother Rat Sam “Nectar” Pace, who died in July.

Jeff Curtis: “Betsy and I have been living at our place in Florida and staying with relatives while our Williamsburg home is being rebuilt.

We have made a few trips back to meet with contractors and buy things for the house. We cannot move in until October-ish. We are heading to High Point, North Carolina, this week to buy furniture. Broken water pipes suck. Had cataract surgery (second one) and my fifth colonoscopy within the last two weeks.” Fifth?

I’m on my third, and I’m high risk! Is there some merit badge for number of colonoscopies before a certain age? Jeff and I are both high risk, as both our fathers had colon cancer, so being prudent, we get checked out often. I get the added benefit of an endoscopy at the same time (a twofer, as it were), as I have GERD. My “twofer” is in a few weeks with an annual physical to follow. Hope all of you are likewise getting checked out routinely.

John Kailey checks in: “Not many earthshattering things to report. Oldest son is in his senior year of college at Kennesaw State, and I am continuing to try and find ways to save all of us that are tax payers money at the U.S. Treasury. Bloodwork numbers were good last time; I just wish I could stop having skin cancer. Hope all is well with all of our BRs.” Mike Staso writes in with a “feel good” story about John Poffenbarger: “John Poffenbarger’s (Poff ’s) father, Arthur ’55, unfortunately passed earlier this summer. Poff, knowing that I’m a bit of a Civil War buff due to my interest in metal detecting, kindly offered to share his dad’s Civil War book collection with myself and Brian Tollie as he was cleaning out the family home he had inherited in Charlotte Hall, Maryland. While I was touring Poff ’s father’s house, I expressed curiosity

about a Civil War discharge certificate issued to a union soldier named Private John Sellers from the 77th Pennsylvania Volunteer Infantry that was hanging on the wall in the den of the late-1700s house. Poff related that his father had found the discharge certificate hidden hanging behind a framed picture that his father had purchased many years earlier at a garage sale. Poff indicated that he was interested in returning the certificate to the soldier’s family but didn’t know how to find them. He asked if I could assist in that effort.

As I had a friend deep into genealogy, I knew that I had a reasonable chance of finding additional information about the soldier and possibly even if he had any living relatives. I had asked Byron Renner, a friend, for help in the past in tracking down information about other Civil War soldiers I had found artifacts associated with, so I said I would see what I could do. In short order, Byron had identified history concerning John Sellers, determining that he was born in 1842 and lived until Dec. 22, 1905, dying at the age of 63 years. He was married at the time of the war and had one daughter, who preceeded him in death, dying at the age of 8 in the 1890s. Though no direct blood relative existed due to his lineage ending upon the death of his only daughter as a child, Private Sellers had several siblings that did live to establish an extended family. It was determined that one of Sellers’ brothers sired a family that today still has living members.

Byron tracked down the family ‘historian’ for that brother’s line, who was more than elated to add the certificate to the family ‘jewels.’

Though Poff could have kept the relatively valuable Civil War artifact for himself, his gracious gift made a family’s day and returned

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the Civil War discharge certificate to where it rightfully belonged – to an individual who would treasure it going forward and to those who had a direct connection to the one-time soldier. On my front, I’m heading back to Asia for another seven months of retirement bliss, returning to the States in March 2019. See everyone at the upcoming spring reunion!”

Jesse and John Arthur were eating dinner in Williamsburg one Friday back in July, and sitting at the table next to them were Mark Byrd and his wife, Rhonda, along with their daughter and three of their grandchildren.

John writes, “We had a chance to catch up a little bit, and they were there having spent the day in and around Williamsburg. They seem to have their hands full. They seem like they were having a wonderful time, and he’s got a great group of grandkids.”

I was able to meet up with John Colonna, Jeff Minnix and Pete Underwood for a ’79 breakfast at a local diner in Norfolk. Much fun and lots of talk about the upcoming reunion and a ’79 party that Jeff and Linda were holding, as luck would have it, just after class notes are due. Jeff and Linda did one of these a few years back, and it was an absolute blast. Renee and I are looking forward to seeing everyone.

On a side note, we ran into Paul Fraim ’71, Norfolk mayor from 1994-2016 that morning who was enjoying his breakfast. He must be a regular, as I met up with Asa Page (your new VMIAA president) and Sean Hingley ’07 for breakfast the following Friday to discuss VMIAA Hampton Roads Region stuff, and sure enough, he was there again. I have already “boned myself ” for neglecting to get a picture on either occasion. Bad class agent ... bad, bad, bad.

A reminder (again) to mark your calendars for next year’s 40th Reunion! Reunion dates are Friday-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 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).

Stay well, brother rats.

–M

2018-Issue 4

1980

John Gibney Jr.

Hello, Brother Rats, These notes cover the period May 16, 2018, through Aug. 15, 2018, and open with sad news. In July, the Alumni Association notified me of the February 2017 death of Terry Hall.

Terry lived in Florida, and a memorial service was held for him in March 2017 in Ocala. An announcement of Terry’s death appears in this issue of the Alumni Review. Ave atque vale.

The period began with snail mail from Walt Wood. Walt and Mary Lynne live in Peru and sent a four-page color brochure showcasing their ministry work. Walt also wrote that Dwight Pearson would be visiting Peru, and they planned to hike the Andes together (read more below).

Dave Hageman sent an email with a photo taken in Clearwater, Florida, where he and Dianna met Marty Fedenko for lunch. Dave was in Florida on business and reached out to Marty.

Most of us either have attained age 60 this year or will do so very soon. For many, this is a cause for celebration. Jeannine Madden, Dave’s wife, sent an email noting that she is planning a gathering in Colorado to mark Dave’s 60th and invited friends and family who could not attend to send a note or video that she will include in a slideshow. In a separate message, Jeannine sent an article and a photo of Dave receiving the GPS Hall of Fame Award presented by the Los Angeles chapter of the Armed Forces Communications and Electronic Association. The photo and a writeup of Dave’s accomplishments appears in the front of this issue of the Alumni Review.

May ended with an email and photos from Joanne Pearson, Dwight’s wife, showing Dwight at the southern terminus of the Pacific Coast Trail, which runs from the U.S./Mexico border to the U.S./Canada border. This was apparently not enough of a challenge, and in subsequent messages Joanne and Dwight both wrote about Dwight’s trip to Peru and his hikes with Walt.

June began with an email from Tim Hodges,

Class of 1980: Dave Hageman and Marty Fedenko had lunch in Clearwater, Florida, in May 2018. who wrote after receiving the end-of-fiscal-year solicitation letter. Tim and Vicki live in Lexington; Tim is the chair of the physics department at VMI and was formerly chair of the engineering department. Vicki teaches at VMI and taught a summer session class in the economics department. Tim received a funded grant and spent the summer working to develop a new class to teach. Their two children (24 and 25) also live in Lexington. Tim planned to increase his number of rounds of golf, as well.

Bert Schneider sent an email with a link containing a video shown on the local Arizona news about Bert’s Star Wars Troop visiting the Tucson Diamond Children’s Medical Center.

John Hughes is a retired Army colonel living in Kansas. John sent an email noting that he is well and provided a new address, as he and his family moved to a new home.

Another piece of snail mail arrived from Robby Jones in response to the receipt of his birthday card. Robby asked how Patti and I were doing and noted that he and Ed Bower represented our class at the Keydet Club Leadership Outing.

June ended with Patti and me departing for a two-plus week vacation in Ireland to celebrate my 60th birthday in May and our 25th anniversary in November. Apologies for delayed responses to all who contacted me during the first two weeks of July.

July began with an email from Phil and Kathy Munisteri with an attached photo. Their daughter, Meghan, graduated in May from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine, which she attended on a military scholarship. She received a D.O. degree and was promoted from lieutenant to captain in the Army. She is serving a fouryear residency at Fort Sam Houston.

Frank Hilton sent a text containing a photo

119

Class Notes

Class of 1980: Meghan Munisteri, flanked by her parents, Kathy and Phil Munisteri, at her graduation from medical school and promotion to captain in May 2018.

Class of 1980: Dwight Pearson and Walt Wood in Peru in July 2018.

of Scott Sayre holding his almost 1-year-old granddaughter, Ellie.

Chal Glenn has a beach house on Sunset Beach in North Carolina. Doug Burton, Doug Conyers, Rick Gilbert, Robby Jones and Mark McLean were visiting in July and had a discussion about our BRs who were VMI cheerleaders. So, they called me for the answer. However, they called on the evening that Patti and I returned from Ireland and were jetlagged. I did not then have the cheerleader answer and still do not.

Frank Leech sent an email with the subject line, “Greetings from Egypt.” Frank is an engineer based in Malaysia but has been deployed to Cairo for the last 18 months. He and Alma may ultimately relocate to Egypt and have toured the Pyramids and Luxor. Their older daughter, Francine, graduated from Penn in 2017 and is working in Philadelphia. Their younger daughter, Marie, is a junior at McGill in Montreal studying math and computer science. Frank closed by noting that he plans to attend our 40th Reunion in 2020 and to reach out to Tom Gelles and Ali Mahan.

July ended with the sad news of Terry Hall’s passing in February 2017. As noted above, the news was provided to me in an email from the Alumni Review staff. I do not have any additional information to pass along. Dave Hageman sent a text after receiving notification via the postcard that I asked the Alumni Association staff to send to our BRs (thanks to Hugh Fain for his counsel). Dave wrote that he called Gary Kessler, as they roomed with Terry and Steve Kraus our 1st Class year. They discussed their good times together in barracks.

Ed Baker also sent a text that was very complimentary of Terry and reminded us to live life to the fullest. Ed expanded on his semiretirement and on life as a doctor living on the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

August began with a text message followed by a phone call with Rob Quarles. Rob and Elizabeth live in Roanoke, where Rob runs his own restoration business. Rob mentioned that he has done some work with Jay Melvin. Rob also said that his 91-year-old mother is doing well, living in her home in Petersburg, Virginia. Their son, Fielding, is now a 2nd Class cadet at VMI. Fielding studied at the Prague School of Economics last year, and Rob and Elizabeth used a visit to travel through Europe. Rob reached out to let me know that the annual get-together that Rob and Mike Luning (with help from several of our BRs) organize each year in Lexington will occur the weekend of Nov. 3. Rob also said that he recently encountered Craig Cox, Ed Elliott and Bill Roelofsen in Roanoke.

Gary Levenson, VMI’s deputy commandant since 2000, called. He was preparing for the arrival of another rat class. He also made his annual reservation to stay in my New York City apartment during his Thanksgiving visit to NYC with Karen and their grandson, Tyler. Gary also knew Terry Hall, as they served together in the reserve and offered condolences and words of fond remembrance.

I spoke with Pat Griffin. Pat retired after 35 years of government employment June 30 and now has a standing tee time Thursday mornings with three 80-year-olds followed by breakfast.

120

Class of 1980: Scott Sayre and his 1-yearold granddaughter, Ellie, in Lexington in July 2018.

Beth is still working, but they are downsizing and relocating from their home in the Boston suburbs to their Rhode Island beach house as their sons, Michael and John, are both out of the house. Pat is still an Alumni Association regional director but has ceded the chapter presidency to Bruno Loefstedt. At a recent rat send-off, Pat saw Ed Carter. In September, he will see Jack Keane in Connecticut.

The end of the period coincided with the publication of the Alumni Review. This prompted another text message from Ed Baker, who wrote that he would be driving through the Poconos on his way to a fishing trip in Canada. I extended an invitation to stop in for a visit.

It’s in the 90s in New York City, and the Class of 2022 is about to matriculate as these notes are being written. They will be published as the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday approach. We will soon begin preparations for our 40th Reunion.

Time and tide wait for no man.

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. And, if we haven’t connected recently, please use the arrival of your birthday card and/or Christmas card, as well as this issue of the Alumni Review, as an excuse to reach out.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1981

Jerry Manley

Greetings to the Brother Rats, Family and Friends of the Class of ’81!

It is mid-August as I finalize these notes which should arrive at your doorstep by midNovember. While we have shared a lot of fun and joy since my last write up in May, my efforts to draft this quarter’s update for the Review have been tough given the number of losses we have suffered in our ranks and our extended class family.

I will start with a remembrance for our dear BR James “Jim” Waller. Jim died June 27, 2018, after a long and courageous struggle with cancer. There are a few details of Jim’s life shared in this edition’s write up of Taps.

What is not captured in the Taps article, however, is the tremendous support and outpouring of love from the class for Jim and his family in Jim’s final months. Carrie Waller shared with me several times how wonderful it was for Jim to receive cards, texts and calls from his BRs. It truly meant a lot to him. Attending Jim’s viewing and/or service were BRs Jeff Adler, Bill Argiriou, Paul Boulden, Jeff Davies, Mike Denton, Dan Dorsey, John Ferry, Dan Gallagher, Mark Hardy, Tim Hesson, Bruce Kitchen, Gene Loving, Gary Morgan, Ken “Catman” Morris, Brian Quisenberry, Louis Rolan, Jorg Ronke, Wirt Shinault, Bob “Gator” Underwood, Greg Wolven, Vince Wood, me and various supporting family members.

Now, if that line up of “class misfits” isn’t a reflection of honor for our beloved BR Waller, I don’t know what possibly could be! Many of these BRs, and a few who could not attend the services, rallied during Jim’s final months to extend prayers and encouragement, as well as visits in the Charlottesville hospital, such as BR Dave Harbison. One of the things that impress me most about our BR gatherings, no matter what the reason or occasion, is that I always learn something new. Centered around BR Jim, one of the more touching moments for me was to learn of the special relationship that Jim Waller and Bill Argiriou shared. Bill

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1981: A.T. Funkhouser and Jamie Byron on a 2,600-mile adventure through the great northwest: North Dakota, Montana, Idaho and Washington.

Class of 1981: Gary Morgan with his father, Dr. “Chuck” Morgan during Gary’s 54th birthday celebration.

will have to tell further stories in this regard, as I simply won’t do them justice. Suffice it to say that Jim and Bill were blessed in that they were able to maintain the strong bonds of VMI and many family events over the years, and they were best man in each other’s weddings. It is also my personal belief that Jim showed his strength and held on until Bill was able to make a hospital visit in his final day. I also learned that nothing compared to Jim’s love for his wife, Carrie, and their three wonderful children, Anna (15), Sarah (8), and Grayson (5).

Please keep this young family in your prayers, always. We will certainly keep Carrie and family connected with the class.

The second remembrance for our class family is for Susan “Susie” Wommack, the beautiful and loving wife of BR Clay Wommack. Susie died July 16 after fighting her own courageous battle with cancer. Susie was a 1982 graduate of Hollins College. Her years at Hollins included a semester with Hollins Abroad in London, England, sparking a love of travel both abroad and in the U.S. Upon graduating from Hollins, Susie moved to Atlanta, Georgia, where she worked as vice president and office manager for the FJB Corporation, a real estate development firm. It was there that she met her future husband of 30 years, our BR Clay Wommack.

Susie was a devoted wife to Clay and loving mother to her two children (son Clay Carter Wommack Jr. and daughter Jane Ball Wommack). She was an adoring daughter and sister and a dear friend to so many. Family, friends and colleagues remember especially her winsome beauty; her warm, endearing voice; her humor with its subtle comic touch; and the empathy that made her so sensitive to the needs of others. It is no surprise that BRs also rallied

around Susie. Soon after Susie was moved to hospice care, Clay shared that the class support was overwhelming. BRs who were able to further support by attending the memorial service for Susie included BRs Larry Butler, Bruce Gottwald, Andy Lauzier, Hank Lee, Clarkson Meredith, Cris Timmons, Ken Pierro and Vince Wood. These BRs were a blessing to Clay and have the gratitude of the class for representing!

Third, we also remember Dr. Charles “Chuck” Morgan, father of BR Gary Morgan.

Chuck Morgan died in his home July 21, 2018, at the age of 83 where he was attended by his loving wife of 61 years, Carolyn. The BRs who were fortunate enough to be able to support Gary at the Aug. 12, 2018, memorial services included Ed Boylan, Clarkson Meredith, Reg Ridgely, Billy Stamm and me with Valarie Solorzano. There is also a brief write up for Chuck Morgan in Taps, but there is so much more to learn about him as Gary’s father. Chuck received his Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Lehigh University in 1965. His professional career started at the Oak Ridge Research Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee, in nuclear power generation, followed by more than 20 years as the manager of the research and development technical staff responsible for the design of commercial nuclear reactors at Babcock and Wilcox in Lynchburg, Virginia, where he is credited for and holds numerous design and process patents. As a lifelong learner, Chuck loved his second career as a professor and department chair of the mechanical engineering department at VMI. He also loved tennis and basketball (he was inducted into the Stevens Institute Sports Hall of Fame in both), music, playing his clarinet, piano and bells. Chuck’s

121

Class Notes

Class of 1981: Retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John T. Myers, loving father of John E. Myers.

Class of 1981: Beloved Brother Rat James J. Waller.

Class of 1981: Susan “Susie” Wommack, loving wife of Brother Rat Clay Wommack.

family is proud of the difference he made in the lives of others, particularly with his 40 years of volunteer work in Special Olympics, Meals on Wheels and at various schools tutoring students.

From Gary: “He was an amazing man – a father any son would be proud to call their own. Once again, BRs are there in time of need, demonstrating that the bonds of love and friendship forged at the ‘I’ are true and everlasting.”

Our fourth remembrance is for Lt. Gen. John Thomas Myers, father of our BR John Myers.

Retired Lt. Gen. John Thomas Myers, U.S. Army, died May 30, 2018, at the age of 83 with his beloved wife of 60 years, Colette, by his side. Lt. Gen. Myers served his country in the U.S. Army for 35 years. He had a very distinguished career and military education that can be reviewed in a brief but powerful biography at http://theworldsmilitaryhistory.wikia.com/wiki/File:John_T._ Myers,_USA_(LTG).png. I would only do injustice to John and his father by trying to synopsize.

Our hearts are with you, John.

Lastly, but definitely not least, we also remember Jennifer Pohlig Slinker, the niece of our BR Ken Pohlig. Jenn died June 1, 2018, at the very young age of 41. Jenn is remembered by her family as “the sweetest, kindest, most caring wife, mother, sister, daughter and friend you could ever imagine.” She was always thinking of others and giving service where needed.

Our hearts are with you, Ken, as well.

All five of these loving souls – Jim, Susie,

Chuck, John and Jenn – left indelible impressions in the hearts of those who truly knew them. As we are fast approaching the holiday seasons, please take a brief moment as you read this article to pause and to consider sending a text, making a call or sending a card to Carrie, Clay, Gary, John and Ken. Let them all feel the comfort of the VMI bonds. Our thoughts and prayers are certainly with them all!

Now, BRs, let’s move on to the individual class inputs. The weekend preceding the Fourth of July, Jim Hart and Derek Hart ’94 hosted the 39th annual ski bash at Smith Mountain Lake. It was another incredible event with BRs Jim Hart, Rob “Cos” and Jennifer Costello, John and Mo Ferry, Ken “Always Prepared for Camping” Morris, Clinker Moss, Billy and Shelly Stamm, Pete and Barbara Tranchik, Gator Underwood, Jeff White ’84, me and Valarie, and many other family and friends.

The food and camaraderie seem to get better each and every year. This year, Valarie and I put together an incredible bloody mary bar with “any and all” of the fixings one could imagine. John Ferry brought the VMI Mason jar mugs. Please mark your calendars for the 40th ski bash next year. With the new “lake house” that Jim and Derek have been slaving over, it is going to be epic! Be there! A stick check will be run!

Mike and Katherine Denton have been busy hosting mini reunions at their Lancaster, Virginia,

river home on the Rappahannock. In late July, the Dentons hosted Mark and Maria Gonsalves, Grover and Melissa Outland, and Dave Openshaw. Just weeks after, in mid-August, they opened their doors to Robert and Roberta Digby, me and Valarie, and, once again, Grover and Melissa (with the heavy flow of food and drink, I heard rumor that Grover never actually left in July, but that’s rumor!). All in all, each event was a tremendous showing of hospitality – boating, Jet Ski, oysters, family and friends! If any BRs get an invitation from Mike and Katherine to join them at “Denton Abbey,” take them up on it! (Katherine and Mike, many thanks to you both!)

Ray Lawson reported he is one-year cancer free! Additionally, he and Gale celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary May 26. On May 30, they received another gift from God – Gideon Ryder Lawson, their first grandson! Ray also finished his first semester teaching online in Tulane University’s Homeland Security Studies graduate program. He really enjoyed it and plans to keep going as an adjunct professor. He also signed on as an adjunct at the University of South Carolina-Aiken starting this fall in the industrial process engineering program. (Great news on all fronts, Ray!) John Dixon reports that he has been busy cleaning out the house in which he was raised in Newport News as his father, at 88 years of age, has come to the point in life where he realizes it

122

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes is time to move forward and sell the old family home. A difficult time for John, and one that many of us have faced and will face. On the brighter side, John also reports that this has been one of the best years for crabs in quite a while. Although the number of crabs may be down slightly, the size of the Jimmy crabs he and Patricia are pulling in are impressive.

They both seem to be in their glory, as John and Patricia have been having steamed crabs nearly every day! John also reported, to his surprise, that his daughter, Nicole, who works for Ulta Cosmetics in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, noticed a young man at her counter wearing VMI attire. Nicole introduced herself and took notes as she conversed about the Institute, her father and his brother rats. The young man was Alex Keys ’16. Thanks to Nicole, John has already exchanged emails with Alex and offered his assistance in networking. Per John: “We sometimes forget the impression we leave on our loved ones regarding our devotion and pride in our alma mater. The alumni network is alive and well!”

Mac Spears gave me a call and we talked for nearly 45 minutes. (Given Mac’s past, I can’t write about what he shared or he will have to “neutralize” me!) In all seriousness, it was great catching up and sharing stories about BRs and, of course, our great Football Caper, where our Class masterminded and captured the football from the “VPI Rangers” before the 1980 Oyster Bowl. Turns out that Mac lives close to Ricky “Moose” McCue, so I expect to hear of adventures and socials involving the two of them. (Great catching up with you, Mac!) I received a great email from Dean Foster.

Dean is living with his fiancée, Pam Perdue, whom he first met when he was a teenager.

Their paths separated for a few decades, but clearly, they were meant to be together. Dean shared that life is simply amazing, as he always wanted to date her as a young man. Together, Dean and Pam have five children. Three are gainfully employed and have very good futures.

One just graduated from college and is contemplating graduate school/medical school and getting into biomedical engineering. Dean’s youngest son, David, is matriculating in August (so, BRs, we have another rat in the extended family!). He started out on a VMI lacrosse scholarship but then received an academic scholarship, so the lacrosse coach was happy David will

2018-Issue 4

still be playing lacrosse. Dean is very proud of David, as he is of all his children, and looking forward to hearing of David’s own VMI experiences. Dean also shared that he and Pam are getting into raising cattle on a small farm that Pam owns in Jetersville (Amelia County), Virginia. They live in Henrico County, and both will maintain full time jobs. With great humor, Dean said he is not sure about the soundness of getting back into farming at age 59, when most farmers are getting out, but life is an adventure after all. The thought of traveling to faraway places to look at cows never crossed his mind when he was in barracks, but he is sure enjoying it now! (You are blessed, Dean!)

Quick Hitters: Brian Quisenberry shared that he spent time with Ann and Greg Wolven when they visited post this summer catching up and reminiscing.

Mike Placzek shared of his interesting year.

In February, he suffered a bout of atrial fibrillation, but he is now doing well. Soon after his wife, Lynn, had to have surgery but is also now back on track. Thankfully, the only other “hospital event” they experienced was centered around the birth of their third granddaughter, Katya.

Steve Tennant also wrote of new additions to his family. Ms. Valerie Anne Tennant was born July 3, 2018, to Steve’s daughter, Madeline, and her beau, Blaine Miskelly. Valerie Anne came into this world at 8 pounds, 1 ounce and was 18.1 inches long. Per Steve, she is “naturally” the most beautiful granddaughter ever born. (I suspect Mike Placzek and a few other grandpas in the class may argue with you, Steve.)

Gene Loving shared that his son, Lucas, passed his test to earn his gold belt, shocking and pleasing both Susan and Gene. Lucas has worked very hard and was extremely happy, matched only by the pride of Gene!

Ken Morris attended a memorial in Richmond for first responders who were killed in the line of duty in 2018. Brother Rat Gov. Ralph Northam was the key speaker, and Ken was able to chat with Ralph, at which point Ralph reportedly begged Ken for a photo-op.

(Who could blame Ralph for that, Ken?) Adrian Bogart reports that he is now in Afghanistan for a year as the deputy commander of the Train, Advise and Assist Command - North.

(God protect you, Adrian!)

Karl Betz chimed in with kind words for Ann

and Greg Wolven. Karl and wife Cyndi were able to meet up with Ann and Greg during one of Greg’s business trips. Karl reports that it was the first time that Cyndi got to meet anyone he went to VMI with, and they all had a great time.

Steve Thomas and Andy Lauzier connected for dinner and drinks when Andy was in Houston for a business meeting.

John Goode reports that his son, John Owen Goode ’13, was married at the end of June with a huge VMI contingent present for the celebration.

Dan Gallagher shared that he and Dave Harbison have reconnected and plan regular gettogethers. Dan has also had three publishing milestones this year. His recent works, “The Secrets of Successful Financial Planning,” has been delayed by Skyhorse to a September publishing date. His short story, “The Dawn of Reason” was published in a Superversive anthology June 4 and then Millhaven Press promptly acquired its rights and those of two more of his short stories. Dan has more to share at AuthorDan.com, including some of his humor and fiction works.

Jim Langan chimed in. He misses the camaraderie of the frequent northern Virginia ’81 class breakfasts at the Chantilly IHOP (we can thank BR Jeff Adler). Jim and Wendy have been living in Fayetteville, North Carolina, for three years. Although he never made it to Fort Bragg during his 25 years in the Army, he is now enjoying it even more than the “delightful six weeks of ROTC summer camp in 1980.”

Jim shared that he can relive his hard-charging Ranger days vicariously through the amazing younger generation of warriors while working at the Joint Special Operations Command.

Jamie Byron and A.T. Funkhouser have been on a motorcycle adventure, riding across the great northwest. Check our Jamie’s Facebook page for pictures. A great adventure for two great BRs! Lastly, Jeff Davies shared with me an article he found in the Virginian Pilot. He came across it in the travel section about BR Jim and Tammy Holloway. The article, entitled “Cape Charles, No Longer a ‘Sleepy Little Town,’” addressed a number of small businesses in Cape Charles from a brewing company to a candy store, as well as Jim and Tammy’s Bay Haven Inn. Jim and Tammy renovated the inn to be both their home and a place to host guests – a much more meaningful and healthy

123

Class Notes lifestyle than the hustle and bustle of northern Virginia, if you ask me!

Well, BRs, that is it from me! Between now and when this goes to print, there should be many more positive and joyful events to share.

As you read this, Thanksgiving, Christmas and Chanukah will be fast approaching. In this season, I pray you receive God’s blessings and good health. Peace and love to you and yours, BRs, and all those who have gone before us.

Cheers!

In the bonds of VMI, Jerry

1982

Will Council

Hello, Brother Rats!

I hope everyone’s summer was not boiling over. From baking hot temps to roasting over open fires in California to flooding in Roanoke and Pennsylvania. But no tornadoes in my backyard for a while. You got to love it. But enough about the weather; how about some news?!

As some of you may know, Guy and Deidre Dougherty had a terrible start to the new year when they lost their 2-year-old granddaughter to a viral infection that put her in septic shock.

Guy would like to give an Old Yell to the unbelievable support provided during that tough time. So many BRs reached out, and he can only let everyone know, “Thank you. You lifted our family at one of the lowest of lows.” Guy continues and says he learned they have an unbelievable daughter who is stronger than he could ever believe. Her faith and strength was and is amazing to see. She does have to take care of two new twins. For those of us who can do the math, if they do go to VMI, they would be the Class of 2039. Yikes! We would be pushing our 80s.

Continuing on a good note, Guy was asked to become the head of workers’ compensation at Farmers Insurance. How many of you immediately want to do the Farmers jingle, “Bumda-bum-bum-bum-bum bum?” He was happy to accept the new role and is now responsible

124

Class of 1982: Alumni attending the memorial service for Lt. Gen. Max Noah, father of Van Noah and father-in-law of Mike Burt were, from left, Lt. Gen. Bob Flowers ’69, Van Noah, Dan Clymore, Nick Roper, Mike Burt and Bill Vickers. for overseeing the line of business across the country. He has been at Farmers for almost 11 years. He and Deidre do enjoy living out on the West Coast. It was great to come back for the reunion and Deidre, his Mary Baldwin College wife, cherished the time back in Lexington. She could have smiled a little less as they passed the frats! They hope to get back more often.

Bob Louthan completed his tour of duty as president of the Alumni Association as of the end of June. Bob says it’s one of the greatest blessings of his life to be involved with this group of alumni. Greatest alumni in America. He and Kathy got to watch their last son, Mason ’18, graduate and get his commission as a Navy ensign, and he was soon headed to Pensacola for advanced preflight training. He is slotted as a Naval flight officer. Very exciting.

This is the first time in eight years they won’t have a son in VMI. It went by quickly.

Mike and Tierney Ewing are still living the good life in Arlington, Virginia. In early August, they attended the rat send-off picnic hosted by the Potomac River and George C. Marshall Chapters. Mike was glad they went.

They had about 175 people attend, including 42 incoming cadets. Talk about impressive; these kids are smart and they are much more aware of what the next several months will be like than we were when we matriculated. He met one incoming cadet who went to his high school and spent some time talking to him and his family. (It turns out his mother and Mike would have been in school together for a year.

She was a sophomore when he was senior.) The incoming cadet already knew his dyke, who is a distant cousin of Mike’s. Finally Mike recommends to anyone, if they haven’t attended one

Class of 1982: Patricia and Jim McCrary along with Jim and Abigail Zins and their daughter, Rebekah, at Fort McHenry National Park. of these events to think about doing so.

Van Noah and Kimbel Burt’s father, Lt. Gen. Max Noah, died in June from complications of a rare autoimmune disease known as Churg Strauss, or EGPA. If you remember, Lt. Gen. Noah was the commissioning officer for the Army ROTC guys in our class. Van reached out to me for a class agent/BR favor, as he was in need of a loaner ring. He had just recently lost his on a trip and really felt the need to be wearing one for when he delivered a tribute speech at his father’s memorial service. Time would not have allowed a replacement to be ordered from Balfour. I am not sure if I even helped, but Dan Clymore came to the rescue and offered his ring. Dan helped out even more as he sent in a class note and forwarded the photo from Nick Roper of several of our BRs who made the ceremony – Van, Dan Clymore, Nick, Mike Burt and Bill Vickers.

Dan reported this about the memorial service.

“It was quite a tribute to General Noah and a true celebration of a man’s life who was well accomplished and obviously admired by all who knew and worked with him. The chief of the Army Corps was a very good speaker, and when he walked down from the podium and spoke direct to the family, it was quite emotional and inspiring. Then Van got up and spoke from the heart about his dad and did a phenomenal job in tribute and with humor; well done, BR! The event closed out with a celebration at the Fort Belvoir Officer’s Club, attended

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes by hundreds, and all of us BRs in attendance a great time catching up.” Following up on the photo, Van identified the gentleman on the left as retired Lt. Gen. Bob Flowers ’69, who was the chief of engineers when he retired. He also was Van’s battalion commander in the 307th Engineer Battalion in the 82nd Airborne Division – the same battalion his father commanded. Nice circle.

In April, Jim and Patricia McCrary met up with Robert and Abigail Zins (with daughter Rebekah) and held a mini reunion of VMI physics majors at Fort McHenry in Maryland. Jim lives in Lusby, Maryland, and currently lectures physics full-time at the College of Southern Maryland and part-time at Emory-Riddle Aeronautical University, while Rob is based in Cape Town, South Africa, and oversees the Creation Ministries International office there.

Russ Stewart is still living in San Antonio, Texas, and running a real estate practice with his wife, Stacy. They just welcomed their second grandchild, Corrie Elisabeth. Russ and Stacy are planning on attending the VMI versus The Citadel football game this fall. They have connected with Tommy Avent recently. He, too, is in real estate in northern Virginia. The BR connections were really working, as Russ linked up Tommy with Richard Mustakos, who is relocating to Virginia soon. That is also what

Russ and Stacy are looking into doing: Looking for opportunities at VMI and elsewhere in the valley – Lexington and Roanoke.

OK, on a personal note. Recently, my daughter and I attended a soccer match in Charlotte, North Carolina, between Liverpool and Dortmund, and Dortmund almost ruined my day.

At the pregame festivities, we spied a guy walking around in a Liverpool jersey with “Council” on the back. I had to ask, and it turns out he is a cousin (second, third, fourth?), Frank Council. We had never met before at our family reunions, but we knew each other’s parents. With him were his wife, Emily, and their 6-week-old daughter, Aubrey. Get this: She is named after my father (and my middle name)!

They had run through all the baby names and then turned to the family listings. They both really liked my parents and remembered my dad as the patriarch of the family for several years before he died two years ago. So, although I don’t have any grandkids in the near or foreseeable future, I look forward to watching little Miss Aubrey Council growing up at my family reunions.

As of this writing, we are a week away from attending the retirement ceremony of Gen. Darren McDew. There will be several of our class attending at Scott Air Force Base outside of St. Louis. Perhaps there will be some pictures of the event.

Sincerely, Will Council

1983

Hugh Daughtry

Class of 1982: Daniel and Lincoln Knaub, grandsons of Diedre and Guy Dougherty.

2018-Issue 4

Brother Rats, These notes cover the period of mid-May through mid-August 2018. As you read these notes, we will have just concluded our 35th Reunion and no doubt a great weekend in Lexington. The mailbag is pretty light for this update but no doubt will be pretty good for the next!

Just missing assembly for the last notes was Owen Dunlap. Probably not the first time he’s found himself in that situation. Anyway, Owen checks in from Raleigh with what he thinks may be his first update to our class notes. He is taking a little break from the corporate world

Class 1983: Ali Dunlap and Margaret Luck graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill in May 2018. Pictured were, from left, Ali Dunlap, Owen Dunlap, Margaret Luck and Charlie Luck. after having worked for Doug Burton ’80 for several years in construction project management. Owen notes that while he enjoyed working with Doug and hated to leave, he feels Doug, “will be fine and maybe even notice and like that his new project manager does not complain or argue as much as the old one.”

Along with his update was a picture of Owen and Charlie Luck and their daughters, Ali Dunlap and Margaret Luck. They were celebrating the daughters’ graduation from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Their daughters had met early on at Carolina when Ali happened to see Margaret drinking from a VMI ’83 cup, and the ladies ended up being roommates for three years! Owen says they no doubt had many adventures, although probably a little different from their fathers’.

Brother Rat Lynn Seldon, noted author and intrepid world traveler, checked in with another small world story. He and Cele were on a river cruise in southern France, and one of their fellow passengers was Sam Clement ’62.

Sam is a brother rat of Gen. Peay ’62, so I am sure that Lynn heard some pretty good stories.

Lynn and Cele have settled in Beaufort, South Carolina, after a few years of a gypsy existence traveling the world.

If you are on our Yahoo group, you saw the announcement of Scott Gines being named the athletic director at Delaware State. Scott

125

Class Notes

1984

Andy Protogyrou

Class of 1983: Lynn Seldon and Sam Clement ’62 at the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière in Lyon, France, in May 2018. had previously been at Texas A&M Kingsville for 11 years serving as the athletic director, the vice president for institutional advancement and the vice president for intercollegiate athletics and campus recreation. During Scott’s tenure, he initiated more than $12 million in new facility construction and upgrades and increased scholarship budgets by almost $1 million. Of 15 NCAA Division II sports, Scott hired all but one current coach, and five of the programs are currently led by the most successful head coaches in Javelina (love that mascot) athletics history. Good luck with the Hornets!

We fast approach another holiday season, and I hope all have a wonderful time. The weather has turned cold, the leaves have fallen from the trees, and the snows have come and gone ... and the rats are still in the Rat Line!

As we approach the end of the year, I hope you remember the Institute in your charitable giving. If you have the chance to stop in in Lexington, please do. You will be impressed with what you see.

That is all.

126

My son, Tony ’16, recently left for his second year of law school. He has spent more time with his Virginia National Guard field artillery unit over the last year sending rounds down range on weekends, than his active duty, Marine commission VMI roommate, Calvin Makfinsky ’16, has in an entire year. Between criminal procedure and evidence classes, he forward observes mortars, 105s and 155s. My daughter, Demetra ’19, returns as a 1st Class private with academic stars and editor (for a second year) of the Bomb. When asked why she gave up rank, she proudly proclaimed, “Because 1st Class privates run the Corps!” I think I did something right there, brother rats.

I recently spoke to Carl Romano. He is a partner in a mega law firm in West Palm Beach, Florida. He is one of those big money lawyers doing commercial real estate and financial institution lending. He was telling me about the yachts just outside his office window. It was great to hear from him. He is married and living in Jupiter, Florida. He has two beautiful daughters – one at the University of Florida and the other at University of Central Florida.

He helps take care of his mother-in-law and really enjoys family life. He last was at VMI in 2005, and I made him promise to come to our reunion next year. He enjoys paddle boarding and surfing. He knows his sharks and which ones tend to enjoy human contact. He said he got a call one night from Sammy Lowman and Teddy Comer. He thinks they were at a Romantics concert, because the music sounded great. He wants you two to call him back. Like all of our brother rats I tend to speak to, he invites all of us to come down to visit. Speaking of big money lawyers, a partnership I am in bought a piece of property near Old Dominion University here in Norfolk to build some private student apartments. At closing, my lawyer (I do not do closings, but if someone whacked their wife, I am all in) charges us $1,200 but tells us we have to pay the bank’s lawyer’s fee.

After the normal yelling and screaming, I see

Class of 1984: Alumni working for the U.S. Department of Energy gathered for New Market Day, letting U.S. Secretary of Energy and Texas A&M graduate Rick Perry know that the department was in good hands. Perry recounted an interesting story of his walks through Arlington National Cemetery and coming upon the Confederate Memorial and the grave of Moses Ezekiel ’866. Pictured were, from left, Christopher Murnane ’84, Eric Fygi ’63, Steven Cade ’87, Gregory Hatchett ’90, Perry, Jamie Clark ’84, Ryan Peay ’02 and Andrew Frick ’05. Samuel Browne ’84 was excused due to travels in Pakistan, and Wells Griffith ’05 was excused for White House meetings. the fee is $5,600 – like four times that of the guy who really did the work. What the heck, right?

Then on the HUD statement, I see the Richmond firm whose children’s educations and summer river home mortgages I am financing.

It was Brother Rat Steve Reardon’s. I fell out!

I saw Sam Browne has a daughter starting as a rat in the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets. I understand she is very smart. Please make sure to stop in Lexington on your way to and from Virginia Tech. Sam still works with the Department of Energy and must see Jamie Clark fairly often at the office. Thank you for your service, as I know Sam travels often around the world and probably cannot tell us what he really does. We are all proud of both you.

I also spoke to Jeff Perkins. He was dropping his youngest off at Bucknell for his first year of college. Jeff also has three daughters. The oldest two graduated from Wake Forest (Jeff got his Master of Business Administration degree there in 2014) and the University of Virginia, respectively, and live in New York City. He has a third daughter at UVa who is about to study abroad and is interested in politics. Jeff lives in the Roanoke area where he is chief operating officer of Boxley, a company of almost 500 employees.

He said they taught him in graduate school that

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes a COO “does the stuff the boss doesn’t want to do.” Jeff is the No. 1 guy running multiple offices, quarries and operations. He is the big cheese.

Not bad for a VMI electrical engineer. Jeff is really focusing on his shot at the senior golf tour.

He went to Pinehurst with Woolwine, Thompson, Phillips, Lowman and Selman, taking all their money and every round. He was proud of his winnings and thought he had enough for a deposit on a lot between the Cav and Munno at Smith Mountain Lake. Next year should put him over the top, guaranteed. Make space boys, Perkins is coming to the neighborhood. He, too, said we can visit anytime.

As always, I think about you all and miss you. Much love, BRs. Andy

1985

Matt Daniel

Brothers, As I start this quarter’s notes, I would like to give a special notice to all of our brother rats who have fought or are fighting serious illness.

God bless all of these warriors. They have had and still have our utmost respect and brotherly love. Gentlemen (and/or their families and friends), please reach out for support as

Class of 1985: Greg Enterline will never lose his keys again; his brother rats have made sure of that.

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1985: The motley crew at the annual Charlie Company golf safari in August at Joe and Cindy Irby’s house in Lexington. needed. Rah Virginia Mil, men.

These notes have a variety of reportings and some information on the comings and goings and some of the fun and games from 2018’s installment of the Annual Charlie Company golf safari.

In May, our own Spencer Williamson, chief executive officer of Kaleo (pharmaceutical company making a lifesaving drug called Evzio) was published in USA Today. This article was a well-articulated piece outlining the affordability and effectiveness of a Kaleo solution. Spencer and Kaleo are doing very important work.

Also in May, John Dixon joined CAVU International as operations manager and senior executive coach. CAVU (aviation meteorology term meaning ceiling and visibility unlimited) is a performance, safety and leadership enhancement company.

Gents, if you are praying types, please offer one for our brother and Brother Rat Andy Valenzuela who is laying it out, yet again, for God and country. Andy is deployed and is doing good things for us. He asked me to keep this note very vague, smoky and 007-ish. Anything for you, brother rat. Three Hail Marys and a Glory Be. Shaken, not stirred.

Speaking of important work: Jeff “Youngster” Young sends via Facebook that he has been managing a group home for four autistic men in Maryland. He shares that “the lack of a user’s manual or a training course has made the transition an interesting and event-filled endeavor, but finally after 10 months, I am getting acclimated to the job. Thank you for your support and patience.”

And speaking of Glory Be: After a long discussion with Brother Rat Father Fimian regarding where he is going in the priesthood, it is obvious that he is doing well and thriving. Jake Spivey also spoke and shared emails with the father. Here is a cut-and-paste (Class agent note: and slightly edited, Jake’s language wouldn’t pass muster here) portion of their email exchange: “... after a long process, I was awarded a contract to serve in the Hampton Roads area, where I had been covering since before Lent. Primarily, I am at Little Creek and NAVSTA Norfolk during the week but also have one weekday mass at the POW Chapel in Hampton Roads. Back in my hometown, life is good. Still have to go up to northern Virginia every two weeks to serve on the board of a pregnancy center in Warrenton that I helped get off the ground.”

Kerry Kirk was recently featured in an article on “Investing in Well-Being,” published by the George Mason University Center for the Advancement of Well-Being (College of Humanities and Social Sciences). In this article, Kerry says, “What has most impressed and energized me to support the center is its holistic three-facet approach to address well-being at the level of the individual, the local community and the broader world beyond Mason.” Now, there’s a level of higher thinking! Way to go, Fester!

(The article can be found at this link: https:// wellbeing.gmu.edu/articles/12097) “Big Wave” Dave Barthol has started a new job in Virginia Beach. He now works as the Hampton Roads Land Development Division Manager at Pennoni (Pennoni is a large civil engineering firm based in Philly). Dave and

127

Class Notes

Class of 1985: Owen “Bush” McIntyre, White House short-order chef.

Class of 1985: Monkey gets saved by Steve Medeiros.

Sheri (like many of us) have now entered their “empty nester” years and figured they’d better move to the coast while they can still enjoy it.

(Class agent note: it’s probably a better market for those sweet custom wooden surfboards that you design and hand-make, Dave!) Dave and Sheri are hoping to move across the border into North Carolina at some time.

Mike Lamore sent a nice note. Mike is still running Barrier1 Systems, Inc. (he founded Barrier1 18 years ago). Barrier1 provides engineering, fabrication, testing and installation of crash rated vehicle barrier systems worldwide. The company continues to grow, and it takes a lot of time and effort to keep it moving forward. Like taking an engineering course at NEB, trying to dodge the TAC in order to stay off confinement, keep the Crozet-fare down or keeping it down in the ranks of Mrs. Sandy’s Spanish class; you know ... life as a Keydet, there is never enough time and the daily push is always on. (Class agent note: I really just wanted to mention Spanish class here. I know it was a stretch, but I also knew that Tom Greenspon would appreciate it.)

While Mike’s underachieving twin sons graduated in biomedical engineering (University of North Carolina - Chapel Hill) and mechanical engineering (Bachelor of Science degree Virginia Tech and master’s Illinois-Urbana), with jobs at Merck Pharmaceutical and Boeing, his slacker daughter (grin) is in her final year of law school at Boston College. Brother Rat and King Keydet clubber Meade King recently visited Mike’s company in Greensboro, North Carolina, where Mike was drawing up the details for the two VMI endowments he has

established: One for a baseball scholarship and a second for a civil engineering scholarship.

(Class agent note: Holy smokes, I want to be like Mike!)

After 33 years in uniform, Maj. Gen. “Gentle Jim” Begley and his wife, Jina, retired from the National Guard in early August. Congratulations, Jim and Jina, and thank you for your dedication to this great cause of ours. Semper fi.

Kevin “OK 3-Wire” Jenkins will do anything to get attention. It seems that this summer, Kevin was flying an instructor-pilot checkride in a Piper-propjob when they had a problem on arrival at Westchester Regional in Pennsylvania.

While coming in on an approach, after putting the gear handle down and GUMP-checking the airplane (gas, undercarriage [landing gear], mixture, prop), Kevin and his passenger found that their landing gear showed unsafe. Following emergency procedures and good sense, Kevin had the gear visually checked as he flew by the Westchester Tower several times.

The gear was indeed in an unsafe condition and would not lock in place. Per common emergency procedures (but uncommonly expert performance), Jenkins performed an uneventful emergency landing (uneventful equals good). He and his fellow pilot safely walked away from the hobbled aircraft. Chuck Yeager would have approved, as this very easily could have gone the other way. Cue the theme song to “The Right Stuff.”

Some quick updates: Jack Rose has become the U.S. Air Force/combatant commands territory manager at Aruba (Networks), a Hewlett Packard Enterprise company.

Marty Sargeant moved from being the chief

128

Class of 1985: Shark eats Monkey at the 2018 annual Charlie Company golf safari. operating officer of City of Hope (one of only 45 comprehensive cancer centers in the nation) to being chief operating officer of Keck Hospital of University of Southern California, a 401-bed acute care hospital that is part of the University of Southern California’s medical enterprise.

John Eckenrode has left Price Waterhouse Cooper to accept a director position at Guidehouse, a risk management and technology consulting company.

Kevin Holland and son traveled on their hogs to Sturgis, South Dakota, for the 2018 Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. More data please, Kevin.

David Wood (now in Australia) has been promoted to astronautical entrepreneur at ConsenSys. Dave has become an expert at grilling shrimp on the barbie.

Random name drop: Andy Mock, John Smart, Jay Lucas.

Finally, eloquently added by our safari cruisedirector, Jake Spivey (aka, “the Commodore”) with some necessary edits from your agent: “Because last year’s safari start day was too late in the week (Wednesday), Spivey and the other safarians, Rich Williams, Hugh Hill, Steve Marsh, Dave ‘Very’ Tingley and Joe Irby, started the weekend event Tuesday evening. (Re-read and think about that: ‘... started the weekend event on Tuesday evening.’ [sic]) “Wednesday morning, Tingley handled some domestic duties, Joe-Beef Irby headed into LexVegas and Neikirk Hall (this is where he sort of works) while the remaining safarians

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes headed out to fish the South and Maury Rivers (Class agent note: The Maury River was actually named The North River until sometime in the 1960s. True story, certified.) Many a 3-inch wiggler and an occasional tree limb were caught and released. Growing weary of emptyhooking it, they assembled on the shoreline for beverages and brotherhood before rain showers hastened them back to Moody Hall. There they were met by Mike ‘One-Eyed Jack’ Adkins and Mike Johnson. Having driven over from Johnson’s home in Louisville, Kentucky, Adkins, who had flown up from Tampa, could hardly contain himself and was insistent to show everyone his personal card trick version of Solitaire. This card trick dominated the entire event.

Although misguided in this case, amazing persistence and grit was evident in old One-Eyed Jack. Before heading out to dinner at Salerno’s, Pat and Lisa McGuire joined the group.

“Thursday, Williams and Spivey were met

by Neb Neblett for breakfast at Niko’s. Joining the group a little later that morning was Steve ‘Hook’ Hagan. Eager to test their water skills before Saturday’s float, the group of Spivey, Hagan, Williams, Neblett, Adkins (with card deck and other accoutrement in hand) and Johnson got onto the Maury below the dam and floated a short way downstream, fishing along the way. Chased off the river (again) by an afternoon thunderstorm, the group was met

by Dave ‘Doc’ Campbell and Jim ‘Book ’em, Danno’ Spellman. Splitting up for dinner, party boys Spivey, Hagan and Williams were joined

by Bill Wieners and Pat ‘Durham’ Donahue.

Posting up on Moody Hall’s balcony after SRC, many of others had arrived on station: Ken Hirlinger, Ken Walus, Ralph Tremaglio, W.G. Rowlett, Jeff Lane and Chuck McCarthy.

“Friday, dawned cool and cloudy, perfect weather for the weed-whacking golf-hacking Safari crew. Joining the golfers, in a non-golfing capacity were Todd Thornes, Steve Marsh and George ‘Georgeous’ Halages. Just before teeing off, Spivey presented the first of several prizes to Greg Enterline. The ‘gifts’ memorialized Greg’s 2017 safari AWOL car keys episode.

Following a brief summary of the rules (‘white tees, captain’s choice, replace divots, have fun’), the foursomes headed out to their respective holes. During the golf play, Marsh and Halages used trickery and sleight of hand to tactically acquire BR Enterline’s car

2018-Issue 4

keys. This was no small feat, as Lieutenant Enterjar had placed the keys in his new 5.56 ammo can. (Class agent note: Can we get an ‘Oorah?’) and hid that, as well. But the boys pulled off the heist, and so the hackers waited around for Greg to finish his round and repeat last year’s rat sheety, so to speak. “Unfortunately, Greg had gone hightech in the intervening year and had installed a tracking device on his keys. As he approached Halages and Marsh, the tracking device began to vibrate, indicating they were the culprits. After all this, the safari crew headed over to Joe and Cindy Irby’s for lunch. Meeting the group there were Meade and Leslie King and firsttime safarians Ken Hurst and Marvin Smith.

“While the majority of foursomes took just a few hours of chasing the little white ball around the links at the Buena Vista course to play their respective round, the foursome of Tingley, Adkins, Johnson and Chris Welch decided to make every. Single. Shot. Count.

They used seven hours to complete the course.

Seven hours, and in the rain. At the Irbys’, the obligatory group photo was taken.

“Saturday started off great. The sun shone brightly and the rising temperature began to burn off the morning dew and the evening’s brew. Unfortunately, the rain had been so intense that the Maury was now a fast moving mess of a river. Without the proper equipment and training to take on the raging rapids, the majority of safarians headed over to Lake Robertson for their shenanigans. Small groups for dinner that evening closed out the day. Of note was the 20-man crew that enjoyed a one man music show at Sheridan’s Livery, followed by Tom ‘Open-Mic’ Greenspon performing his best Dane Cook jokes-a-million rendition. Actually very funny.

“Sunday morning, Jake and some others spruced up Moody Hall then headed off to the Lexington Diner for breakfast and then headed home. Another safari is successfully (and safely, this time) in the books. This year, some 45 brother rats attended the event. There is no class like our class, gents.”

Until next time: Do good, be safe, have fun, help your neighbor, and send notes and photos.

Don’t become a victim of the patented Class of ’85 random name drop.

RVM, Matt Daniel

1986

Clint Hubbard

Gentlemen! Well, here it is mid-August and time for another submission to Alumni Review.

This is a good juncture to insert a disclaimer.

I’m pretty certain all the brother rats of 1986 know, believe and readily accept the content of this disclaimer as never has any one of them registered the slightest complaint about the content of the class notes. So, here goes: These notes are written and intended for the members of the VMI Class of 1986. The views, opinions, jabs and thrusts contained herein are the responsibility of the class agent. Anyone else is welcome to read the notes, but neither the said agent nor the VMI Alumni Review nor the VMI Alumni Agencies will accept responsibility for or otherwise be held responsible for any hurt feelings or offense taken – real or imagined. This is a column for the Class of 1986. We drink straight whiskey in here. We smoke cigars and we needle one another, but we earned that right in the crucible called the Rat Line and the three-and-a-half year journey that followed. We have one another’s back, no matter the odds.

In mid-June, I attended the VMI Alumni Association Volunteer Leadership Conference with class agents and the Alumni Association Board of Directors. Among the highlights were staying on post at the quarters of the chief of staff and Mrs. Inman, along with Jim Dittrich ’76. You will recall that Jim was a TAC during our cadetship. He is one great guy, and we had a rollicking good time recounting the days of the mid-1980s from both perspectives.

I learned that Jim may have been a strict TAC officer at times, but that was to make up for the shenanigans he pulled as a cadet himself with the Class of ’76. What a wonderful guy. And a public thank you to Jamie and Lori for their hospitality in hosting us. As for the presentations at the meeting, Col. Bill Wanovich ’87, the commandant, gave a marvelous talk. It was informative, humorous and just outstanding.

He really is an outstanding leader and perfectly suited to that position. Well done, Bill.

129

Class Notes With all the housekeeping out of the way, our to promote the aerospace industry and engi- time, I had a quick chat with Steve Thacker, lead-off batter this quarter will be one, each, neering profession. Obviously, BR Simpson’s and among other things, he gave me his update Simpson, C.G. Make that Lt. Col. Greg Simpcollege transcript was not an issue before the on the Thackerettes (his three daughters) – one son of the U.S. Army who recently deployed election unless they misunderstood the “VMI of whom is at Clemson University where she is in a math class with a Ms. Ladson, who is to Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, as the U.S. Cen- Summer Scholars Program” as a misnomer the daughter of Frank Ladson. Imagine that: for year-round school and overall dedication tral Command deputy director of Space Forces from June 2017-April 2018 for U.S. Air Forces to academia. As Dave Grimm might say, “I’m At a school the size of Clemson, two young ladies end up in the same math class, and the just sayin’...”

Central Command. As part of the director of While Greg Simpson is still hard-charging common thread is their dads are brother rats.

Space Forces staff, they integrated joint/coalition space operations on behalf of the Com- along in the world of rocketry, the long arm Pretty cool. Hopefully, the daughters are better of the law in Albemarle County, Virginia, is math students than their dads were back in the bined Forces Air Component commander as the designated USCENTCOM Space Coordi- hanging up his badge and shifting gears. The day. If not, they could be facing sharing a class nating Authority within the Combined Air & word on the street is that BR David Wallace re- again (in summer school – just like their old Space Operations Center. BR Simpson oversaw tired on or about Aug. 18, 2018. I’ll bet $50 he men). BR Thacker’s other daughters are both the joint Space Forces supporting Operations never envisioned that scenario around that date college lacrosse players – one at St. Mary’s ColInherent Resolve, Freedom’s Sentilege in Maryland and the youngest will be at the University of Denver nel and Spartan Shield advising the this fall. Denver’s not in Maryland.

CFACC regarding the employment You may recall the news event back of joint space capabilities while inin April when a Southwest Airlines tegrating with USCENTCOM and flight 1380 plane lost an engine to component operations. He provided an explosion and one passenger was timely and accurate support to more tragically killed when she was parthan 140 joint/coalition space professionals operating throughout UStially sucked out of the broken winCENTCOM Area of Operations. dow. The pilots were credited with Now, that is pretty high speed for a great flying and safely landed the jet guy who got his start on high speeds with no further loss of life. Our condrag racing a 1968 Dodge Coronet nection to that event is that, when he around southside Virginia in the was on active duty in the Navy, our early 1980s. Well done, BR Simp- Class of 1986: U.S. Army Lt. Col. Greg Simpson deployed to Al own Paul Boos flew in the backseat Uedid Air Base in Qatar from June 2017-April 2018. of pilot Tammie Jo Shults’ aircraft son, C.G. and said she was the real deal 25 Upon his return stateside, Greg was elected as the 2018-19 vice chair of the when his nose was pressed against a wall in the years ago. Pretty cool.

We’ve made mention of a seeing-eye dog to Greater Huntsville Section of the American barracks concourse while waiting for a haircut collect some missing or wayward BRs. SpecifiInstitute of Aeronautics and Astronautics some 36 years ago. Well done, BR Wallace! and will be the chair for the 2019-20 council What this means in layman’s or hooliganism cally, I mentioned including Tom deVenoge as year. The Greater Huntsville Section is one of terms is that our days of running roughshod a candidate for such a dog, but in rethinking it, the largest sections in AIAA with more than through Albemarle County are over without I’m going to go with either a bloodhound or a 1,300 professional, student and educator as- our own personal “get-out-of-jail-free” BR on Saint Bernard, because we have to find Thomsociate members across the states of Alabama the local police force. Insofar as I know, we as P. Houdini before we can bring him back. and Mississippi. The section conducts regular are still good to go in Leesburg, Virginia, with Let’s flesh this out a little bit. Our candiactivities spanning the continuing education, Jim Daly in senior leadership there and in the dates for a seeing-eye dog help could include professional development, pre-college out- Shenandoah Valley with Judge John Hart, the Jim Urie and Glen Ralston, because BR Urie reach, public policy, college student and tech- law west of the Blue Ridge sitting on the bench showed up on Facebook after retiring from the Fairfax Police Department and may or may nical functional areas. Activities range from in Harrisonburg, Virginia. Hey, it does no good technical skills development classes, lectures, to have a BR for a judge if they can’t help a not be in or near Myrtle Beach, South Caroand industry and history tours to networking, brother (rat) out, right? You know what Papa lina. BR Ralston is reported to be in San Antopublic policy and science, technology, engi- G Dave Grimm would say. As for BR Walnio, Texas, and we could get a two-for-one with neering and math outreach events. The section lace, Dave’s new career will be as an English a seeing-eye dog out there, as such an animal could bring us Glen Ralston and our beloved supports STEM scholarships, science fair and instructor at Fork Union Military Academy. engineering design competitions, and organiz- Well done, BR, and best of luck as you write Cadet Hatchet – aka John “Axman” Ax. Of course, with BR Ax, there may be some obligaes and conducts Engineers Week activities, as the next chapter.

One recent afternoon on some windshield tory stops along the way for carwashes, but that well as local and national public policy events

130

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes would break up the trip for them. Axman won’t ride in a dirty car. Along the way, they could stop off in Memphis to pick up Steve Anderson and bring him with them. That’s a name you haven’t heard in a while, isn’t it? BR Anderson roomed with Jim Jenkins. Can’t place him? Not surprised, although BR Jenkins has recently resurfaced and been visible again.

Their other roommates were Pat “Let’s Go Underground” Farrell and Chip “Wanna Play Hide-n-Seek” DePasquale. Chip was last seen wearing a T-shirt with the graphic, “I’ll hide; you seek.” BR Farrell hasn’t been seen since the Bush administration. Bush 41. Actually, that was an exaggeration – we saw Boxhead during the Bush 43 administration, but it was in the first term.

Now then, our latest candidates for a bloodhound or Saint Bernard, after BR deVenoge, of course, would have to include Tim Young.

The dude graduated and then seemingly entered the witness protection program or something, because he vaporized. Another bloodhound could get after Roman Malavet, as well as Rich Weede and Chris “Planet-A” Planeta.

It seems our Marine BRs took that “escape and evade” thing to heart. Hey, we got Dale Powell back to the 30th Reunion, and he’s a Marine, so it is not out of the realm of possibility to get one or all of these gents back on post. I would have thought we would have had a shot at it at the last reunion when Jim Taggart promised a free bottle of liquor to everyone.

Speaking of things returned after a long absence, here’s a great feel-good story. Vince Carag was living in New Orleans and endured Hurricane Katrina where he lost almost everything up to and including his sheepskin. It turns out he has a well-placed BR on the headquarters staff at the Institute who assisted him in getting a replacement. That’s right, BR Carag got a replacement diploma complete with the appropriate signatures even though a couple of the original signees has gone on to the happy hunting grounds. Obviously, Vince was thrilled to get the replacement, as he called it “one of his most cherished possessions.” I think we can all understand that sentiment. And let’s not forget to tip our waitresses, bartenders and chiefs of staff who can get things done.

And speaking of Jim Taggart, here’s an update on BR Frank Clark from Durham, North Carolina. BR Clark has taken the news of the

2018-Issue 4

pending closing of Woods Mill Distillery particularly hard. He was a loyal and dedicated customer who may or may not have bootlegged the Woods Mill apple brandy across state lines from South Boston, Virginia, to Durham, North Carolina. The last word was that he was seen clutching a near-empty bottle of Woods Mill’s finest sippin’ whiskey and crying like a baby.

George Sheild was on the bubble of the seeing-eye dog crowd for a while, before he resurfaced at the 30th Reunion. George is a pioneer and starting a new practice: “If they won’t come to us, we’ll go to them.” To wit, BR Sheild took the advice of Horace Greeley and headed west to Nevada, where he hooked up with Brad Bradshaw for a few days at Red Rock Park. In all that desert heat, I’m sure they needed some liquid refreshment but equally sure they didn’t “overdo it.” Naw, they would never do that. George is looking forward to being back in Virginia some this fall, as his son is still at Hampden-Sydney, and George and Susan are mainstays in the “swamp” tailgate section. My personal goal as a tailgate attendee is to get BR Sheild and Dave Grimm to coordinate on one, as they are your All-Americans.

We’ll put George on the breakfast biscuits and Papa G. on the wings and barbecue, and it might be enough to even get Ben Walker back amongst us.

Recently, some of the VMI social media pages posed a question about the most unlikely place you’ve run into another VMI guy.

There were some interesting tales, but here’s one about running into a BR in a strange place.

And I’m not talking about going barhopping with Jon Aycock, either. In the early 1990s, a few of us were walking into an alternative rock nightclub in Washington, D.C., called Polly Esther’s when Jon turns to me and says, “Hubbard, keep your redneck mouth shut in here.” I know, right? I was taken aback, too.

Seriously, this is a great story. Long about early 2000s, Todd McCullough was a U.S. Air Force intelligence officer working out of a joint services command in Europe. He gets dispatched to a spot in the badlands of the world to a sketchy area with some bad guys running around causing mayhem. Ol’ T.W. keeps getting taken forward to do some of his imagery interpretation work and advise our boys on what’s what. He does his job, and they tell him

they’re going to extricate him out to a Navy warship and thence back to Germany. The Navy is sending a helicopter to pick him up, and it’s a little hairy, as there are bad guys in the neighborhood. BR McCullough says he remembers hoping the Navy sent someone good, as they’ll be a theoretical target for a while when they take off. The chopper lands, and Todd runs out to it and climbs on board. He’s getting buckled in, and one of the Navy guys says the pilot wants to tell him something. BR McCullough leans up into the cockpit, and the man at the throttle is BR Emmet Gathright.

Todd said his prayer was answered, and he said he was so calm after seeing Emmet at the controls that he actually fell asleep on the flight back to the ship. Is that cool or what?

Speaking of BR Emmet Gathright, back in our cadet days, he roomed with Jeff Maclay, Dion Scaglione and Jim “J.J.” Walker. That was a room full of very good men, right there.

Speaking of good men, let me mention a couple. According to who you ask, one of the duties of the class agent position is to assist the VMI Foundation in their fundraising endeavors. You may have realized I don’t do an excessive amount of pounding the drum about giving money to VMI. I think it is a personal decision for you to make, and I respect each of you too much to brow-beat you about it. Personally, I give money to VMI because I want to, not because someone is hounding me about it.

That said, on a recent trip by the Institute, I noticed a few names among the bricks out in front of barracks that should be mentioned in print for all of us to see. These are guys who haven’t been too engaged in terms of attending reunions, etc., but they have obviously been engaged in supporting VMI. I’m talking about Ernie Oversen and Scott Huff. BR Oversen may well be hiding out with Tim Young for all we know, but he has supported VMI and has his name outside on the bricks. We’d love to see you back sometime, Ernie, or at least hear from you. Nevertheless, thanks for your dedication to VMI. Scott Huff is another great story. BR Huff was with us for two years until he took off for the VMI of the north on the banks of the Hudson River where he graduated with their Class of 1986+2. After a stint in the Army, Scott is living now in Knoxville, Tennessee, and works in an international business

131

Class Notes that takes him to Asia on a regular basis. But he found the time and the dollars to support VMI, and his name is on the bricks, too. These are just a couple of the names to read.

The challenge I offer is to think about our time at VMI – what we learned about ourselves and one another and how much our BRs and that molding experience mean to you. This is not an expectation that everyone give enough to have a brick, but if everyone sends in $50 or $100, it will make you feel good, and more importantly, it will help VMI continue the mission. Your consideration is all for which I ask.

Well, men of 1986, you may stand down for another 90 days. In the interim, keep in touch with one another. Pick up the phone and check in with a BR you haven’t talked to in a while.

If you are so inclined to make a gift to the VMI Foundation or Keydet Club, know it will be appreciated.

Best wishes to you and your families for the coming holidays and new year. Take care, brother rats.

1987

Curt Schoonmaker

Attention, Warriors, If we were a little younger, by the time we were reading this, we’d be home for Christmas “furlough.” I think the last time I saw that word used in print was at the Institute. This was a productive summer for our class, and we continue to rise in the world order and grasp power.

“You may be whatever you resolve to be.” I don’t know what Lapthe Flora resolved to be, but look at what he has accomplished along the way. You are an amazing BR. This bio is from the August 2018 announcement of his appointment to U.S. Army Africa’s new deputy commanding general position. So, we’ve got the Army covered. You are the epitome of perseverance, BR. I don’t know any of us who have the word “fled” in our bios: “Brig. Gen. Lapthe C. Flora is the U.S. Army Africa deputy commanding general and Army Reserve component integration adviser. He also serves in the Virginia Army National Guard as the assistant adjutant general – Army, land component

132

commander, where he provides oversight and guidance in the areas of training, personnel, logistics, facilities and maintenance in support of over 7,000 citizen soldiers.

“Flora earned his commission as an infantry officer from Virginia Military Institute in 1987 and has commanded at every level from company to brigade. In addition to his command assignments, He also served in several key staff positions as 116th IBCT executive officer, 29th Infantry Division G3, and JFHQ-VA J5.

While serving in the 29th Infantry Division in 2001, Flora deployed to Bosnia as part of the G3 staff and served as the deputy G3 chief of Future Ops, Training & Synchronization with Multinational Division North. As a battalion commander in 2006, he led the 1-116th IBCT in support of NATO peacekeeping operations in Kosovo. In 2011, he served as the senior adviser and director, Afghan National Army, Ground Forces Command, ISAF Joint Command in Afghanistan. Most recently, he served as the assistant adjutant general for strategic initiatives in the Virginia National Guard.

Flora’s awards and decorations include the General MacArthur Leadership Award, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal with 3 Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters, Joint Service Commendation Medal, Army Commendation Medal with 1 Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster, Army Achievement Medal with 4 Oak Leaf Clusters, Army Reserve Components Achievement Medal with 5 Oak Leaf Clusters, National Defense Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal with 3 Oak Leaf Clusters, Armed Forces Reserve Medal with “M” Device Numeral 3 and Bronze Hour Glass, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon (3rd Award), NATO Medal (3rd Award), Virginia Governor Medal, VANG Legion of Merit, VANG Bronze Star and VANG Commendation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster.

“A native of Saigon, he is the first Vietnamese boat person to be promoted to general officer in the United States Army and the second of Vietnamese descent. Following the Communist capture of Saigon in 1975, Flora and his brothers fled the city to avoid being drafted into the North Vietnamese military. He spent more

Class of 1987: Maj. Gen. David J. Furness assumed command of the 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, in August 2018. Attending the ceremony were, from left, Al Cowan, Dennis Butts, Owen Curley, Furness, Andy Zolper, John Nolan, John Boughton and Rob Goodwin. than three years in the jungle and then fled by boat to Indonesia, where he spent a year living in three separate refugee camps.

“In his civilian capacity, Flora is a principal applications engineer with the night vision business of Harris Corporation in Roanoke, Virginia. He is a certified lean six sigma black belt with 30 years of image intensification manufacturing experience and holds six patent awards related to the AN/PVS-14 and AN/ AVS-9 night vision goggles. Additionally, Flora has served in multiple management capacities, to include as the engineering manager, engineering director and vice president of quality assurance with ITT Defense and Electronics, Night Vision and Geospatial System.”

On to the Marines. Maj. Gen. David Furness took command of the 2nd Marine Division in August, as well. Good Brother Rats Al Cowan, Owen Curley, Andy Zolper, John Boughton, John Nolan, Rob Goodwin and Dennis Butts made the drive to Camp Lejeune. If you go the the 2nd Marine Division’s Facebook page, you can read Dave’s letter to the division posted Aug. 13. It’s honorable, powerful and inspiring, and will make you proud to know this fine BR. Thank you, Dave. The Institute is proud of her son.

Drew Campi continues to move, this time to the streets of New York City. Elliot Ness has nothing on this G-man. Congratulations, BR. Kudos to Outer Banks Paul Munson for providing the following: “Here’s the news from beachtown. My older daughter, Megan, graduated from Meredith College this past May. She

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes earned a degree (cum laude, no less – takes after her mom) in English with a licensure to teach middle school language arts. Two days before graduation, she got hired by a middle school in Cary. Needless to say, we are excited for her and the fact that she is job positive. She’s moved into her apartment there and starts teaching school late August. Younger daughter Sara will be starting her junior year at the University of South Carolina. Last semester, she earned president’s list with a 4.0 GPA. Again, takes after her mom. She’s studying to be an elementary school teacher. She is having a big time in Gamecock country. We get down for a football game every year. Let me tell you, Southeastern Conference football has to be experienced, as my words would not do it justice.

“My bride is still working in the health field doing good all over northeast North Carolina and southeast Virginia. I have a year to go until I hang up my spurs. I don’t know what I will do next at this point, but a few options are starting to appear. Anybody hiring starting September 2019 who might need my particular set of skills, look me up.”

Andy Kestner is in Japan and married. He’s never coming back. Who saw that coming?

In June, Kyle Oliver, Vernie Reichling and Steve Cade had a mini reunion in northern Virginia. We’re very good at that up here. Bill McCarthy runs some good ones in Richmond.

We’re not old when we’re around each other.

Photos for Alumni Review must be at least 300 dpi. I can’t use any from Facebook because they’re dumbed down to not clog the server.

Send me the originals from your phones or cameras. We may post five per issue.

In the bonds, my brothers, Schoon

1988

Ed Wetherell

Kristen and Rich Stone, Amy and Sam Tate, and Greg and Stephanie Rollins all got together in late July and enjoyed celebrating grandparenthood for the Rollinses and Stephanie’s birthday.

I talked with Gus Shuster, and he and his family

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1988: Mark Bristol and Mike Vitulano in Washington, D.C. are doing well. They live near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and he is still working for U.S. Steel.

Mark Bristol was able to make the rounds a bit recently and connect with several BRs including Mike Vitulano and Mike Wood.

Brother Rats Bristol and Vitulano connected in D.C. at the Smithsonian Museum of American History July 23 when both were in town with family. BRs Wood and Bristol linked up with Mark Cager ’90 and Brian Panell ’89 in July, as well, for some fun and fellowship.

I received this update from Brian Hathaway: “In June, I finished my two-year tour as regional security officer at U.S. Embassy Dushanbe, Tajikistan, and am headed to Sinai in August as a civilian observer with the Multinational Force and Observers peacekeeping force for a year. While I’m in Sinai, my family will be in Panama, where my wife, Kristina, will be working at our embassy there. I think I will retire in summer 2019, but we’ll see.”

I had a nice chat with Sam Russell. He recently retired from the Army as a colonel and is back at the U.S. Army War College in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, as a civilian working as a historian, researcher and instructor.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Chris Goff recently retired in Japan and is starting a company there. Also recently retiring from active duty was U.S. Navy Capt. Mike Coleman, and a number of BRs were able to attend his ceremony in early June. Col. Ted Wagner retired from the Army Reserve and is working in cyber security. He said he is enjoying his extra free time and occasionally talks with Scott Davilia and Frank DeVenoge in Richmond. Ted also lectures at MIT on cyber security once a year at their applied cyber security course.

U.S. Marine Corps Col. Wayne Sinclair will also be retired from active duty by the time you

Class of 1988: Kristen and Rich Stone, Amy and Sam Tate, and Greg and Stephanie Rollins got together in late July.

Class of 1988: Mike Wood and Mark Bristol with Mark Cager ’90 and Brian Panell ’89. read this. Wayne was able to join Jim Florio, Lew Sigmon, “Ogre” Stachelek, John Keppeler, Bubba Keppeler ’18 and me for lunch in Woodbridge Aug. 10.

I recently exchanged emails with Todd Freiwald, who as many of you know, hosted a machine gun familiarization shoot for Marine option cadets at VMI for several years while he was with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Todd has retired from the ATF and is now the deputy commandant at Randolph-Macon Academy in Front Royal, Virginia.

We have a good number of BRs with kids currently in the Corps of Cadets at VMI. I may have missed a few, but the ones I know of with upperclassmen currently there include Steve Neary, Tom Reimann, John Keppeler and Dan Riley. We will have at least five with rats there this year, as well, including Brian Durham, Christian Comberg, John Keppeler, Eric LaSalle and me. I may have missed someone; if so, my apologies, and please let me know.

Whenever you run into a BR or have an update, please send me a picture and drop me a line. It

133

Class Notes is always good to catch up and hear how everyone is doing. I look forward to seeing many of you in Lexington this fall. Until then, all the best to you and your families and Rah Virginia Mil! Ed

1989

Steve Chiles David A. Martin

Well, here it is: A hot day in August, and we are feverishly working toward our reunion dates. Actually, we haven’t done anything yet, truth be told, but with the Alumni Association’s help, we will cobble something together. Many of you have already marked your calendars for April 26-27, 2019. Expect some info in the coming months from the Alumni Association.

We’ll also be putting out info on the ’89 Facebook page as soon as we get it. Please ensure your email and mailing addresses are up-to-date through the Alumni Association website.

To prep for our dates in April (and take a commensurate tax deduction), Steve Chiles and David A. “DAM” Martin are planning an ’89 class agents’ conference in Toledo on the margins of the VMI versus Toledo season opener. Speaking of openers, I will be bringing the opener to the tailgate. Actually, we’ll be getting our families together for the first time in a long time (like, ever), and it should be a lot of fun. Andrew Tunnard writes that he, too, is losing sleep in anticipation of our April engagement, not to mention that his oldest daughter, Andrea, is engaged to a Naval officer who is stationed on an aircraft carrier in Norfolk. They are planning to get married next May in New Jersey. Andrew’s youngest daughter, Nicole, is in graduate school at Montclair University studying speech therapy.

Andy is a big supporter of anything involving families and VMI: He’s been married 26-plus years to his Ring Figure date, Janie! Hopefully

134

Class of 1989: John Piedmont, Nat Cross, Wayne Jones, Bill Bersing, Jon Giltz and Dave Furness ’87 at Jones’ U.S. Marine Corps retirement ceremony. they are enjoying the empty nest. Next time you pay tolls on the New Jersey Turnpike, rest assured your funds are going to a good cause – like Andy’s (new) salary: Andrew was recently promoted with New Jersey Department of Transportation as the assistant commissioner for Transportation Operations Systems and Support, or AC-TOSS for short. The ACTOSS is responsible for 1,700-plus fine folks in NJDOT! Andrew got together with Bill Miller and his son, Liam; Peter Catalano; and Buddy Schmeling last summer at Peter Luger’s Steakhouse. They are all doing great. Billy’s son just started at the U.S. Naval Academy, Peter is a pilot and trainer for United Airlines and Buddy is a general manager at Peter Luger’s but also beginning some real estate ventures overseas.

Very exciting stuff, and great update, Andy; thanks!

Bob Bradford dropped a note to say he doesn’t remember getting a birthday card from us (because we didn’t send any), but life is good in southside Virginia. He is still at Combined Arms Support Command along with Scott Stables, who works in another directorate. Bob might make the move to the national capital region, as his wife works at the National Museum for the U.S. Army. Sticking with the NCR, Tom Fanshaw dropped a line without prompting, rubbing it in that his sabbatical to Australia was “just OK.” Yeah, right. T.P. and his wife, Missy, saw the Great Barrier Reef; rain forests; Sydney; and their son, Andrew, who lived there on a six-month hardship tour. T.P.’s wife and other son then went to Ireland with the Towson, Maryland, lacrosse team. It seems that the Fanshaw family enjoys travel. Tom volunteered

his brother who works at NATO-Brussels to be a tour guide for anyone passing through the low countries. Tom and Missy’s eldest is engaged, and they are planning a Chicago wedding – in December! The whole Fanshaw clan also managed to squeeze in a family vacation to the Dominican Republic. Tom will be hosting a sidebar in a side bar on the margins of the reunion on how a school principal (Missy) and a senior member of the Towson police department (Tom) manage to find the time to travel.

On the other coast, Neal Heimer and his wife, Patricia, report all is good in the Pacific Northwest as it is the sunny time of year – lots of hiking and kayaking. The seals chase Neil around when he does the latter, and the Sasquatch stalk him when he does the former. Neil ponders life on his deck, watching the ships in Puget Sound as he sips a cool beverage, wondering what to do for a second career.

And sipping a beverage brings us to our vintner-BR, Quinn Donovan: Quinn is all agog with grog (heh heh), having recently bottled 70 gallons of Sally-Port port wine. Quinn looks forward to a fall version, noting that the “Tempranillo grapes are going through veraison.

This is the onset of ripening. The grapes turn black and sugar levels increase. I still need to source the brandy we will need to fortify the wine. Looks like we will need 10-15 gallons of 190 proof brandy.” Not quite sure what all that means, but it sounds great!

Allan Stoneman, also all agog from his direct role in getting rat roommate John Adametz to flag rank, is a big supporter of Ned Cox’s monthly VMI breakfasts. Sometimes, surprise out of town visitors like George Armbruster show up. Erik Ames is a regular attendee except

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes when he takes a “family” vacation to New Orleans. Allan also sees Nat Cross for lunch and met with Granger Gilbert for dinner, so everyone appears to be eating well. Allan noted that it was BRC, DRC and SRC all in one day! Also notes Allan: The boys of room 423 seemed to have turned out OK – an admiral (Adametz), senior vice president of client administration (Stoneman), president and partner of a prestigious disability law firm (Buchanan) and a knucklehead co-class agent (DAM). Eric Ames writes that he and his wife, Betty, are spending a lot of time in Lexington, as their son plays football at that other fine Lex institution, Washington and Lee University. They keep in touch with Ren O’Ferrall, who makes the rounds on the college baseball recruiting circuit.

Dave Brown sent a great note recently that he met with Dan McGrew in Charlotte for business. Dan watches a lot of bad high school and college football games in the area.

Finally, in the “thank you for your service” department, Nat Cross attended Wayne Jones’ U.S. Marine Corps retirement ceremony.

Wayne must be enjoying the retired life already, and with all the additional time on his hands, he dropped a line to say he moved from San Diego to Alexandria, Virginia, where they held the official retirement. Other attendees were John Piedmont, John and Gloria Glitz, Lori and Nat Cross, Brig. Gen. Bill Bowers ’90, and Maj. Gen. Dave Furness ’87. Well done, Wayne. Let us know if you get bored, and we’ll put you in charge of a reunion committee. Wayne also wanted to give a shoutout to Matt St. Clair, who retired a month before Wayne.

Tom Spivey reported in with about four hours left until we went final on the notes, stating he was going to Alaska to see Brian Duffy for a week. Tom, doing great things keeping kids safe in Chesterfield County as a school resource officer, was also seen hiking in the county with McGruff, the crime dog.

With three hours left until the Review closed its doors to us for this edition, Zeke Moore wrote from Fredericksburg that he discussed culvert and bridge designs with Monty Loving and Tim Kielty ’86, kicking the can on a new design for the bridge over the Maury at VMI which was swept away in a flood last decade.

Zeke is very concerned about fishing access as he discusses the finer points of life with Pete

2018-Issue 4

Wick ’90. This is a great update, Zeke, and a lesson to all of you who read the notes but don’t write in a lot (or at all). This means you, Skiff.

Have a great fall; see you in a few months.

1990

Daren Payne

Unfortunately, I have to start out this note with the sad news of the death of Brother Rat Andy “Bull” Weening July 5 in Bayonne, New Jersey. Doug Spitz was able to take time out of his vacation to attend the memorial mass for Andy, and we sent a flower arrangement in red, white and yellow on behalf of the class.

Andy leaves behind a wife, Chris Ann, whom he dated all through VMI, and four children.

As his roommate, Chuck Greene, put it, “He had a real talent for finding the humor in every situation, and I will always remember his smile.” Chilton Morris recalled, “To say Andy was a great man and friend would be an understatement. His smile, character, awesome spirit and friendship meant so much during our days at VMI and after.” A scholarship fund has been set up in Andy’s name to benefit his children, so if anyone is interested in donating, please let me know, and I can provide details. Big thanks to Special Agent Ken Kovac, Andy’s rat roommate and roommate of two additional years, who kindly donated a brick to be placed in front of barracks in honor of Andy. I think I speak for all when I say Andy will be sorely missed but never forgotten. Rest in peace and God bless until we meet again, brother rat.

Mark Dick stopped by on New Market Day to chat briefly. Mark resides in Rappahannock County since he retired from the Army four years ago. He was actually in town to link up with Jeff Moushegian’s son, who will be a 2nd Class cadet next year. He, Jeff, Tim Feagans and Bill Ator remain close and still vacation together on the Outer Banks each summer. Tim passed along the following note: “Sally and I passed through Lexington this past Friday.

Had to drive my son’s truck from Philadelphia back to Texas. Post is looking great! Hope to see you this fall.”

Mike Herbaugh wrote, “As you mention New Market, I was pleased yesterday to participate (for my second time) in a meeting of alumni here in the Pentagon courtyard. In total, 22 of us met to remember the Battle of New Market. As the tradition goes, there was a brief review of the life of one of the survivors, a reading of the honorable dead and a moment of silence. I’ve been assigned to the Pentagon for 15 months now. Whenever I walk the halls in my VMI hat, I run into fellow alumni here and there, and it is always a pleasure to stop and have a quick meet and greet. This is a huge facility, but through my fellow alumni, it has a much more personal feel.”

Out of nowhere I got the following from Mike Ober in reference to the wrestling program’s new coaching hire: “It is good to hear that the new coach is enthusiastic about reviving the program. I can remember lots of names, but unfortunately over time I have lost contact with the people and have no contact information. It is nice getting the updates from you; I have not seen VMI since the year 2000, and I imagine it has changed a lot.” Mike, it’s great to be able to take you off the missing in action list! Speaking of wrestling, I also heard from Joe Pittman who is still with the police in Fairfax County and is planning to make the Ride to the “I” event again this fall. Also got a note from Rich Treanor expressing interest in the wrestling program: “I will not be able to attend the Richmond outing but would like to stay abreast of what they are doing. My son has been doing fairly well in wrestling and is starting to get some looks from some colleges entering his sophomore year, and he is interested in pursuing it past high school. I can’t say that VMI is at the top of that list, but you know how that can play out.” Here’s hoping the new coach gets things turned around and gets the support of all our great alumni.

During graduation, I was able to catch up with Glenn Dickenson, who had kid No. 3 matriculate in August, and Don Bowers who was in town to help move out his son who will be a 3rd Class cadet next year. Col. Dickenson has moved up to be the executive officer for the 4-star general who just took over Cyber Command. Glenn will now be working out of Fort Meade, Maryland.

Don remains in the Harrisonburg area, and I can report he made sure his son’s room was up to inspection order for the barracks close out.

135

Class Notes

Class of 1990: Col. Reed Hudgins and Capt. Sean Hoover ran across each other at the Mission Training Complex at Fort Sam Houston, Texas, in July.

Class of 1990: Sam Stocks with his children, Mason, Kate and Bo, at Utah Beach in Normandy, France, on his 50th birthday trip.

Col. Chuck Ellis retired in May after 28 years in the Marine Corps at a ceremony in Guam.

Chuck plans to continue with his regular job in the U.S. Marshals Service, also in Guam, and said he’ll be back at VMI in November for the Institute Society Dinner. Congrats, sir, and thanks for all your great service, devil dog!

In other retirement news, we had a number of our brothers in arms hang up the uniform after 20-plus years of service to our nation. Jay Whittington retired from the Air Force this summer at Warner Robins Air Force Base after 26 years in the engineering field, and Rob Hayes retired from the Air Force out of his last job at Air Force Reserve Command A3 office.

Col. Mark Hennigan was set to retire at Fort Belvoir in October after 28 years with the U.S. Army. Mark also passed along the following note: “Wanted to let you know that I put together and hosted the Pittsburgh Chapter rat send-off, where we had about 30 alumni, incoming rats and their families show up. It was a good event. Our BR Eliot Assimakopoulos

136

attended, and we got a chance to catch up, as he is now living in the Pittsburgh area.” Eliot is now living and working in Pittsburgh and keeps up with Sal Bora (who is doing much, much better now after his accident last year) and U.S. Marine Corps Col. Pete Finan. Col. Tripp Anderson is also officially retiring this fall at Fort Gordon, Georgia, following his most recent assignments as chief of staff and garrison commander there. If I’m missing anyone who’s retiring in this edition, please let me know, as I’d love to get a comprehensive list together to recognize all those who are retiring this year. Thanks to all of you for your service to our nation!

I got a call from Hunter Trumbo, as well.

He recently met up with BRs Hatchett, Mullori, Lanzilota and Schinstock for dinner in northern Virginia. I guess with two attorneys present they managed to keep everyone out of jail and cover the bill. Attorney Mullori is currently working on a book and just did a restart after 10 years of work courtesy of constructive criticism from a writing clinic he was accepted into by a literary agency in London. Hopefully before too much longer, Mike will become our class’ next published author.

Karl Powers responded to rumors he sold his guide service via email from the last frontier: “Yes, we sold the business, lodge and planes – signed the deal in January. Will be the first summer in 22 years I haven’t had to work every day. Wife, three savages and I are living in Anchorage now. If you or anyone else makes it up north, we have plenty of room at the inn! I bump into Dennis Dupras every now and then; he’s an Alaska state trooper. If you remember him, he made it through rat year and then skipped a few years and finished with ’94 or ’95.” Of course I remember Dennis, as he actually graduated with my younger brother’s class and was our last classmate to walk the stage!

Bill Madison came by the office fresh off a cruise to the Bahamas with Chris Whittaker and Mike Faunce. They went on the trip to celebrate their 50th birthdays. The trip was all inclusive, and I’m assured they got their money’s worth. Chris remains in Texas near Austin, while Mike is changing jobs after a number of years working in a nuclear power plant (best to get out before you get too many rads). Bill’s oldest graduated from Anderson University in South Carolina, and he has a son at James

Madison University and one daughter still in high school.

Sean Carty recently started a new volunteer position in addition to his day job. He is now the chairman of the board for the Franklin Foundation for Innovation. While the pay isn’t too good, he seems to be really looking forward to serving the local community in this capacity.

Also on LinkedIn, I see Dave Yockel (our very first class agent) started a new position as the human resource manager for Maxcess International. Dave remains in Oklahoma working in Oklahoma City with the new job.

Class historian Andy England also started a new position as western regional manager for International Fumigant Company in Lenexa, Kansas.

Additionally, John Cabell just took a new position as director of financial services customer satisfaction for J.D. Power out of Troy, Michigan.

Finally, it appears that BR Glenn Thompson began a new position at W.M. Jordan construction firm in February as the vice president for business development. W.M. Jordan is the company doing our $15 million Preston Library renovation project. Congrats, guys, on the great new positions you are embarking on, and best of luck!

Chris Tremaglio continues his long career educating our future presidents, officers and captains of industry as a teacher at Smallwood Middle School at Indian Head, Maryland. He lives in King George, Virginia, and this fall will mark his 27th year teaching at the middle and high school level. I didn’t think any of us were old enough to have done anything for 27 years yet, but then I realized I retired at 27 years myself! Appreciate all you and the rest of our BRs in the education field at all levels are doing, BR. I also heard from Marshall Simpson on LinkedIn, as he remains chief executive officer of Dominion Medical in Richmond when he is not elsewhere fly fishing the salt marshes for red fish.

According to Facebook, Brian Albro continues his mission of hosting BRs in the Pacific Northwest. This time, it was Raynor Garey in town in Seattle as he continues his nationwide tour. Next up for Raynor is Alaska. Albro also met up with John Lanzillotta and Todd Eckloff for drinks and dinner out in Seattle in June.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Not sure why they were out there, but Brian never fails to entertain a BR when out on the West Coast.

I received a nice email update from none other than Donnie Roberts out of Michigan: “I am doing very well up here in Michigan/ Ontario. I have been working for myself for 14 years, soon to reach a 15-year milestone. My second kid is a freshman at Texas Tech. My oldest daughter lives in Florida with her family.

I keep in touch with Chuck Ellis, Erroll Martin, Tony Baker and Travis Mayberry consistently.” Thanks for the update, and I’ll try to get you that contact information from your favorite instructor, Sgt. 1st Class Lane!

Extreme athlete Andy Schaaf shot me the following update: “As some of you know, I signed up for the Leadman Challenge (a series of endurance events in Leadville, Colorado) and have one more event to complete starting Aug. 18 – the Leadville 100-mile foot race. One of the reasons I am doing this is to raise funds for an orphanage and school called Ranch3M located just south of the border in the drug war-torn town of Guadalupe, Mexico. It’s a ministry we have been supporting for years which is focused on caring for orphans and atrisk children and preparing them to be exemplar members of society.” Great to see you still competing at such a high level for such a great cause, Andy!

On the Fourth of July, I was fortunate to have Steve Wray and Chris Larlee over to the house to watch the Lexington fireworks show. With a house right next to the Virginia Horse Center, we had a front row seat and didn’t even have to pay for parking. Steve was visiting for the weekend from the Danville, Virginia, metropolis, and Chris was kind enough to volunteer to chair our early arrival event planning committee for the next reunion. The very next day Andy Kvasnicka, Glenn Dickenson and David Ratliff were among the cast of hundreds in town dropping off kids for the Summer Transition Program before Matriculation. They all seem to be doing really well, but I’m sure the impact of Matriculation will be a much different story for both kids and parents! Additionally, Kvas was kind enough to pass along the following update from Petersburg, Virginia: “On June 30, I visited Chuck Ellis at his sister’s place here in Prince George. Errol Martin, Travis Mabry, Donnie Roberts and Tony

2018-Issue 4

Baker were present. Then July 3, I met up for breakfast with Tim West ’88 from Petersburg, Arturo Johnson, Chuck Ellis, Erroll Martin, Tony Baker and Donnie Roberts. Next our son, Bain (19+3) did the Summer Transition Program along with Arturo’s son, Emilio. We ran into David Ratliff and Glenn Dickenson at the beginning of STP. Also, during STP we ran into Joe Sokolowski ’91. On July 29, my wife, our son and I hung out at Arturo’s place, where I ran into Lorenzo Carpenter ’93 (Arturo’s rat). And finally July 30, we did the rat send-off thing in Richmond, where we ran into Sam Stocks. All are doing well. RVM, Andy.”

Speaking of BR Stocks, I got the following note and a couple of cool photographs from him in August: “For my 50th, I asked my wife for a trip to Normandy. We are still here but here is a photo on Utah Beach with my kids, Mason (14), Kate (11) and Bo (13). It was a very moving experience.”

Dave Bender reached out to me with a potential recruit for VMI. Dave continues his work as a lieutenant with the Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department. Thanks for all you do, Dave, and stay safe out there!

John Hahn gave me a call to let me know he’s still working for the Coast Guard and will be up at VMI for Coast Guard recruiting in the fall. John also just moved to a new house near Smith Mountain Lake, so he is no longer on the lake but has 6 acres, a shooting range and a pool for entertainment.

Chris Phillips left a reply in July to let me know that while most were vacationing, he was heading out for his two weeks of annual Navy Reserve duty. Capt. Phillips remains active in the Navy Reserve as a JAG Corps officer when he is not in his day job as an attorney in Georgia.

Doug Harper stopped in for a visit in July.

Doug is still in Charlotte and enjoying his second career in engineering and business development for Gilbane Building Company.

Sean Hoover, the ageless wonder, passed along a nice picture of him and Col. Reed Hudgins at the Mission Training Complex at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. Sean remains active in the Army Reserve in Texas while Reed is still on active duty and is the Army’s chief of petroleum, oil and lubricants programs out of Fort Eustis, Virginia.

Long lost BRs I’m looking for on this go round include my co-dyke, Bob Cunningham;

Doug Robinson; Ken Markwalter; our class’ lone NFL player (Redskins, Eagles, Jaguars), the speedy Greg Clifton; Col. Luis del Valle; Scott Meade; Chris Bish; Steve Knieling; Andy Kim; Dave Petka; and Jack Ellis. Please come out of hiding wherever you are, as your BRs are dying to know what you’ve been up to, and I haven’t heard from you in my two years on the job as your friendly and informative class agent.

On a personal note, I want to thank everyone for all the prayers, calls, cards, advice, texts, emails etc. regarding the loss of my dad, Ronnie Payne. His passing was actually a blessing and had been expected for quite some time due to his struggle with dementia and Parkinson’s.

My family and I certainly appreciate all the kind words and outpouring of support from the VMI family in general and the Class of 1990 in particular during these past few months.

In conclusion, our 30th Reunion will be only 18 months away by the time you get this, so prepare to keep open the weekends in April 2020. We are already making plans, so if you are not getting my weekly email updates, please contact me so I can add you to my growing distro list of 160-plus BRs. Until next time, go Keydets!

1991

Chuck Story

As I’m wrapping up this edition of the notes, the summer has started to draw to a close.

The new rat mass is matriculating this week.

When you are reading these notes, they’ll be well into their first year at the “I.” Bob Cole, Charlie Schindler, Matt Joyner, David Ahrens and I all attended the Lynchburg Chapter rat send-off picnic. We have 11 new cadets from our area attending this year, including the son of one of my co-workers. In a slightly different perspective, the rat mass matriculating this weekend will be the 1st Class in barracks when my youngest son matriculates, assuming that’s what he wants to do. For those of you who have already been down this road (Jamie Tavenner, Sean Boyle, Pat Krug, Eric Hyde, et al) I’ll be curious to hear your perspective

137

Class Notes

Class of 1991: The Lynchburg VMI Alumni Chapter held a rat send-off Aug. 14, 2018. Pictured are nine of the 12 Lynchburg area incoming cadets.

Class of 1991: Buck Sessoms, Keane Dabney Kauder, Charlie Schindler and Chuck Story at the memorial service for Keane’s mother, Virginia Puller Dabney. from that time. Charlie and Cheryl Cathcart’s son, Trey, matriculated this fall.

Chris Eubank’s promotion to brigadier general was official this past summer, and he also assumed responsibility as the 39th chief of signal for the Army. He will also be commandant of the Signal School at Fort Gordon, Georgia.

Congratulations, Chris! Now that you are back stateside, make your way back up to Lexington for a football game.

Jon Milner and Chris Barnett both sent kids off to become Hokies this fall. No word yet on how the disowning conversations went.

Charlie Schindler, Buck Sessoms and I represented the Mackey’s Tavern crew at the memorial service for Virginia Puller Dabney, wife of Col. Dabney ’61. She died this summer in her home in Lynchburg. Many people from the Marine Corps and VMI communities came out to say goodbye.

Rich Coupland sent a nice note from the wild, wild west of Arizona. He’s consolidating his power as the trash man of the Southwest and getting himself published along the way. I never thought I’d say to someone, “That article about recycling profitability was pretty interesting.”

Ed Fuller checked in from San Diego, California. His wife, Tessa, and two daughters are busy keeping the pace with him. By day, he’s a

138

mild mannered project manager for the Space and Naval Warfare Command. By night, he’s a pastor in the men’s ministry at his church.

Keep up the great work, Ed! Matt McQuinley checked in from Australia (!) with a quick note announcing the birth of his son, William, Feb. 1. Congrats to you and your family, Matt.

Speaking of David Ahrens, his son, Owen, was a midfielder on the E.C. Glass High School lacrosse team that won the state championship this year. He was wearing his old man’s 55; it was fun watching him. Fortunately, he shot better than Dave. Rob Sayegh’s son, Will, had a front row seat watching Glass win the title.

His Midlothian team lost to Glass in the semifinals. Will finished his high school career in the top 10 for VHSL lacrosse players in assists.

Congratulations, Will!

Thanks to everyone for your notes. Until next time.

1992

William Woodward

BRs, Here are the latest updates from our classmates. Please also look in the Alumni News section of this publication for a great article and picture on Greg “Jabba” Andricos who, with the assistance of alumni in other classes, led Wagman Heavy Civil’s Design Build Team to the successful completion of Virginia Department of Transportation’s $42 million Route 7 Widening and Bridge Rehabilitation Project over the Dulles Toll Road and International Highway in Tyson’s Corner, Virginia.

Andy Tate has kept up organizing outings for those BRs living in the national capital region. In June, we met at Theo Androus’ home. Theo and his wife graciously hosted us for the afternoon and evening. BRs attending included Andy Tate, Dave Jahnke, Kent Gring, Tim Rodriguez and myself. Anhtuan Nguyen’s wife, Linda, stopped by and brought grandson Derek along. For those who did not know, Dave is quite the woodworker when not teaching school in Maryland. Theo commissioned Dave to build two outdoor chairs, and

Class of 1992: Theo Androus, Woody Woodward, Andy Tate, Linda and Derek Nguyen, Dave Jahnke, Kent Gring, and Tim Rodriguez at Androus’ home in June 2018.

Class of 1992: Steve Arnold skydiving from 15,000 feet. they looked incredible. As I have mentioned before, if you are living in the national capital region and you are not getting emails about these gatherings, please let me know and we will get you added to the distro.

Speaking of Anhtuan, he is still on his mobilization from the Army Reserve in Afghanistan. Anhtuan reports that “I am the officer in charge of Defense Logistics Agency Disposition Services in Afghanistan. We have four sites (Bagram, Kabul International Airport, Kandahar and Jalalabad). This is the best deployment in my 25 years of service and lasts for 210 days. I miss my wife and her cooking (I am sure Linda is relieved that she does not have to cook often while I am gone), freedom of movement and doing things whenever I want to while not having to worry about mortar attacks.” Anhtuan is due back to the continental U.S. in the November-December time frame.

He thinks he may retire from the Army Reserve

by May/June 2019, after his son, Douglas ’19, graduates from VMI and receives his commission in the U.S. Army.

Anhtuan sent in a picture back in early June of him and Carl Engstrom when they linked up in Bagram, Afghanistan, just before Carl returned to CONUS. Carl also sent me in an update in which he reports, “Just got back

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes from a yearlong deployment flying and doing teach, advise and assist with the Special Mission Wing. I recently had a vicious night of poker with Dave Wiesenberger, Dick Richardson and James Cherry (who just returned from a year in Jordan and is now back in Norfolk).

Dave and Dick are unchanged. James is thinner.

“I also saw Rob Schonberger over July 4. He is still teaching and hocking Port City Beer in Alexandria, Virginia.”

Franco Neto sent me an update which said, “I am still in the Navy currently working at the Joint Personnel Recovery Agency at Fort Belvoir where I will finish off my career. I am targeting summer 2020 for retirement. Other than that, we spend the majority of our time shuttling our three kids, Sam (12), Joshua (9) and Caroline (6) to soccer activities and piano practice.”

Todd Pegg reports, “I am still in the Virginia National Guard and keeping busy as a battalion commander. This August is my first Matriculation as the new deputy commandant for operations, plans and training at VMI. The job keeps me busy, but it is great to be back working at the Institute.”

Dan Gaskell reported in from Okinawa, Japan, where he finished up an 18-month tour as 2nd Battalion Commander, 8th Marine Regiment in September. He performed a 12-month work up in North Carolina and then deployed to Okinawa in February for a sixmonth deployment. He says they have “trained (and taken leave) across the Pacific to include mainland Japan, the Philippines and Thailand.

Even got to take a handful of Marines and sailors to Betio Island, Tarawa Atoll, where our battalion was in the assault wave 75 years ago this November. Even though peace broke out (with North Korea) while we were here, it was great to lead 900 warfighters on the edge of the empire. When I get back in September, a staff job in 2nd Marine Division awaits, and I am hoping for one of the war colleges next fall.”

Clint Seybold sent in an update in which he said, “My wife, Wendy, and I just finished up a three year tour in American Samoa as the commander of a small U.S. Army Reserve installation and the senior ranking military officer in the territory. As a parting gift, Staff Sergeant Leuila Ioane and her husband Sergeant First Class Joseph Ioane made Wendy and I matching outfits that we wore to our farewell dinner

2018-Issue 4

hosted by Sergeant First Class Victor Avalos at his family’s home. To my surprise, I received a recognition from U.S. Rep. Aumua Amata Coleman Radewagen, which was read in the U.S. House of Representatives and entered into the Congressional Record. My change of command was July 21, and the next day I transferred to my new position as the state emergency preparedness liaison officer for Ohio and received promotion orders to colonel. I will probably finish out my 30-year career in June 2022 in this or similar positions, focusing on emergency management and defense support of civil authorities.”

Tim Jordan sent in an update in which he said that he “had a great time catching up with Dale Bishop in late July at the Backyard Grill in Richmond, which is owned by John Harper ’93. Dale lives in the Florida Keys and has his own fishing company. Next time you are down that way and like to fish, he is your man.

I was there with Jerry Allen, Rob Mizelle, Pat Warner ’91 and John Westfall ’93.” Tim mentioned that his oldest son, Hartley, has decided to play lacrosse for VMI and will be member of the Class of 2023. He will be fourth generation in the family to attend VMI, including Tim’s father, John H. Jordan Jr. ’51 and grandfather, John H. Jordan ’921.

Jeff Galon sent me an update in which he reports, “After 20-plus years here in Silicon Valley, Karen and I have decided to uproot and move back east! I got hired as a principal systems engineer for Range Generation Next at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida. I am starting in October but have to sell the house here in California and move cross country in September to the Melbourne area. I know the Bergstols are in Florida, so if there are any other BRs in that area, let me know! I should be able to start making reunions now – no more excuses!”

I received a very nice note from Conway Upshur. Some of us may not remember Conway because he departed during 3rd Class year, but he came back to our 25th Reunion this past fall and said he had a great time; it was the highlight of the past year being welcomed back so warmly by his BRs. He says he thinks of VMI often and fondly. He is surrounded by VMI graduates in his neighborhood in Henrico, Virginia, and in his workplace as a dentist.

He commented what a great experience VMI was if only briefly.

Class of 1992: Anhtuan Nguyen and Carl Engstrom in Bagram, Afghanistan.

Class of 1992: Staff Sgt. Leuila Ioane, Clint Seybold, Wendy Seybold and Sgt. 1st Class Joseph Ioane at Clint’s farewell dinner in American Samoa.

Steve Arnold skydived from 15,000 feet. He fell for 50 seconds at 135 mph. Steve says he “told the instructor that I wanted to learn to skydive, not just go once, so he had me pull the chute and steer it. He landed us. It was an amazing experience. Scary as hell!”

Allan Lunsford sent in a quick note to let us know that he just finished moving the production of Belle Vodka to the Shenandoah Valley off Route 11 near Toms Brook. Belle Vodka was recently named the official vodka of America’s Best Racing, a multimedia fandevelopment and awareness-building platform initiated by The Jockey Club and designed to increase the profile and visibility of North America’s best thoroughbred racing events with a primary focus on the sport’s lifestyle and competition. Luns also reports that his whiskey will be “tasting wood” in October with a market debut in 2022.

139

Class Notes and I know so that we can make sure you get all VMI correspondence.

In the bonds, Woody

1993

Jim Sharp

Class of 1992: Gathering after the Allen Stone Braveheart Memorial race were Mike Starling, Neil Hennigan, Will Current, Jay King, Rich Falcone, Adam Gregory, Bob Mason, Tom Christman and Chris Zaleski. Allen Stone’s brother, Carl, and his wife, Katy TrahanStone, both seated, were also part of the group.

Mike Starling and Tom Christman sent me updates on the 19th annual Allen Stone Braveheart Run-Swim-Run, 5K and 1 Mile Kid’s Race (http://www.allenstonememorial.com) which occurs each July. The following BRs and family participated: Mike; Tom; Jay King and his wife, Bridgett, and daughter, Madeleine; Ron Williams; Adam Gregory; Bob Mason; Will Current; Neil Hennigan; Rich Falcone and his son, Peter; and Chris Zaleski. Mike reported that everyone really enjoyed having a get-together Saturday after the race to connect with BRs over food and drink. The gathering continued into the evening with most returning home Sunday morning. Next year (July 13, 2019) promises to be the biggest iteration yet, being the 20th anniversary of the event and what would have been Allen’s 50th birthday.

The fundraising goal has already been set at $100,000 for the Navy SEAL Foundation. For those planning to participate, keep in mind it is peak season in Virginia Beach, so early coordination is needed to guarantee hotel accommodations.

As for me, my son, Will ’18, graduated from VMI along with Andy Krug’s son, Ty ’18, this past May. Will was hired by U.S. Customs and Border Protection as a customs agent in Maine, and Ty is in medical school training to be a U.S. Army doctor.

Please let me know of any major life events such as marriages (including for our children), births, deaths and advanced degrees so that I can inform the Alumni Review. If you have a change of address, let the Alumni Association

140

I hope these notes find everyone in good spirits.

Max Swoboda’s wife, Jennifer, dropped a line on an update for their family. Max was recently in Knoxville on business and had a chance to catch up with John Perry. Max is now working in business development for Evoqua focusing on the power segment, which is a new role. Alonzo Cabbell works for the same company, and they were able to catch up with him at a recent meeting.

Jennifer and Max welcomed a new baby to the family in January. They were glad to get the recent news that they aren’t the parents of the youngest legacy. Their older daughter had spine surgery at Shriners in Philadelphia this past spring. Both girls are doing great, and they feel extremely blessed (but old). If anyone passes through Huntsville, they are invited to give them a call.

Speaking of Huntsville, Alabama, Scott Davis sent in a note with a couple of pictures.

Scott is still in Huntsville working for the Department of Defense as a contractor. He has been playing a lot of USTA tennis and ran into Anthony Brinkley ’92 on the courts.

Scott talks to Brian Melvin frequently, although

Class of 1993: Tom Carlsen; Coach Doug Bartlett; and Tom’s son, Tommy Carlsen, snapped a photo after Tommy’s lacrosse game near Buffalo, New York, July 3, 2018.

Class of 1993: Roommates Scott Davis, Brian Melvin, Vic Tran and Alex DeVarona.

Class of 1993: Jim Sharp, Ed Kerns, Jim Langley and Brian Jordan at Kerns’ wedding. he lives in Maryland with his family. Brian is retiring from the U.S. Coast Guard after a great career. In anticipation of the reunion this fall, Scott sent in a photo from years back of his roommates. I can’t believe any of us were that young.

In preparing for the reunion, I placed a call into our class cartoonist, Troy Spencer. Troy’s filing is as follows: “Neil Osbon stopped by for a cookout and guitar session with me and my family while I was in Lunchbag (i.e., Lynchburg). He was in from Japan, where he had been teaching English in a Christian school.”

Troy and his family have been living in Los Angeles for several years now. Neil was also able to stop by Charlotte and visited with Dave Hoy. As usual, I was on the road and wasn’t able to join.

In June, my wife and I were honored to attend the wedding of Ed Kerns to Jana Gutierrez in Auburn, Alabama. Also in attendance were BRs Jim Langley and Brian Jordan. I don’t think I have seen Jim and Brian since school, but the stories came flooding out. It was great to catch up and celebrate Ed and Jana’s big day.

Jim

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1994

Clay Campbell

Dear Brother Rats, Hello, BRs. We are now a year away from our 25th Reunion; let that sink in for a minute. I need some of you to step up and reach out to me that you would like to serve on one of the reunion committees, because frankly, I can’t do this on my own. On that note, I traveled to VMI recently to meet with Thom Brashears ’95 and John Wranek ’85 at the new reunion central offices to set the wheels in motion for the reunion.

I was going to stay the night with John Campbell and Sally, but work and kids’ practice called me back early. I did drive to Buena Vista to see John for about 10 minutes; he recently got another sheep dog. So, I guess for a proper sheep farm in Lexington, you must maintain a constant ratio of two sheep to every dog on the property. Jeremy Schlussel wrote saying his son, Ethan, matriculated this year at VMI, as did Nathan Rush’s son, Kraton.

Stephen Kavanaugh wrote to say he recently finished three years stationed in Madrid, Spain. While there, he hosted nine cadets who were in Spain studying abroad. He is now on European vacation awaiting orders on where he will go next.

C.J. DeBernard recently hosted a rat send-off in Fredericksburg, Virginia. From all accounts, it was a first class event, and many were in attendance. I traveled down to Richmond last month to see a Richmond Squirrels baseball game. While walking down the concourse, I saw a little guy with a VMI shirt on, so I bent down and told him I liked his shirt. About five minutes later, I received a text from Trey Steely telling me to leave his kid alone and stop scaring the children. If I would have known it was Trey’s son, I would have strained him and maybe worked him out in the concourse.

Clay Mountcastle wrote that he is still at the Virginia War Memorial in Richmond and encourages all to stop by and tour the facilities.

Dave Underwood wrote to say happy left handers’ day and that Rob Coleman’s daughter, Olivia, got married and that Dave Truslow’s

2018-Issue 4

Class of 1994: Roger Jones, Hernan Barrero, Aaron Scruggs, Chris Gibson, Jim Bratina, Jason Nicholls, Chris Gros and John Rider at a mini reunion at Gros’ house. daughter started kindergarten. Did I mention in the time I have been typing that Fat Jimmy Bratina has now had three more children?

Junie Harding wrote to say his son has received a four-year Army scholarship and will be attending Bowie State University in Maryland.

In June, Roger Jones, Hernan Barrero, Fat Jim Bratina, Aaron Scruggs, Chris Gibson, Chris Gros, John Rider and Jason Nicholls got together to compare Jason’s and Gros’ bald heads. From what I hear, they had a good time polishing and buffing those heads to a perfect shine.

Everyone, I hope all is well.

Always, Pig

1995

Joseph W. Doyle

Brother Rats, We set foot onto post as a rat mass 27 years ago, and in just a couple of days as I write these notes in August, the new rat mass will matriculate. It is hard to believe it has been that long, and sometimes it feels like it was just a few days ago. I hope everyone made it through the heat, and in some places the monsoons, of the summer. I know everyone is trying to get last minute summer vacations in, and in some cases, our kids are already back in school.

Thom Brashears is gearing up for a spectacular football season. I hope a lot of you are able to make it to some games this year. Thom has also been on the road hitting as many rat send-offs as

possible. Thanks for doing what you do!

I spoke to Brett Matthews by email. He is doing well and staying busy. I hope to be able to catch up with him in the near future when I am in the Fredericksburg area.

Keep your eyes peeled for the date of our 25th Reunion. It should be coming soon, and we will be making preparations for a great time in two years. Keep sending me updates on how you are all doing. Until next time.

Rah Virginia Mil! ’95, ’95, ’95!

1996

Tom Danielsen

Brother Rats, I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying your fall. I’m writing this edition of the notes from my brother’s place in Siljanas, Sweden, after spending the past week traveling throughout northern Norway visiting family. It’s been an amazing adventure.

I start these notes with the somber news of the passing of Todd Bishop’s wife, Kelly, in June. Several members of the class were able to attend the wake, including Nick Latsios, Tom Danielsen, and Barron Mills and his wife, Kristen. Many more members of the class reached out and offered their support. Todd was incredibly grateful for the outpouring of support during a very difficult time. Please continue to keep Todd and his children in your thoughts and prayers.

I was able to speak with Barron and Kristen for some time at the wake. They are still in Orlando and doing well. Barron is still considering his career options following his retirement from the Marine Corps. He has several opportunities but is being selective for the right fit long term. He’s also heavily involved with the Orlando veterans’ community and helped start the local Veteran’s Beer Club.

Nick Latsios and I also were able to catch up for some time and went to dinner following the wake. He’s currently working for Turner Construction on a new high-rise project in the Boston Seaport district. He still lives in Philadelphia and commutes weekly to Boston to help lead the project. Nick and I agreed that

141

Class Notes

Class of 1996: Corrie Brice was promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army in March. Col. Alex DeVarona ’93 presided over the promotion.

Class of 1996: Nick Latsios and Tom Danielsen attended the Phillies versus the Red Sox game at Boston’s Fenway Park in July.

Class of 1996: Stew Holt was able to attend Chris Noe’s promotion to colonel in the U.S. Army in June. we need to meet more often and felt the Phillies versus Red Sox at Fenway Park was a very appropriate venue. Unfortunately for me, the Red Sox lost 3-1, and once again, Nick had reason to celebrate a victory over Boston sport this year.

Speaking of Philadelphia, I recently heard from J.J. Rivera who relinquished command of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773 (Red Dogs) after two years May 4. J.J. was happy to report that he’s taking a break after four years of active service to the Marine

142

Class of 1996: After two years in command, Lt. Col. J.J. Rivera relinquished command of Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 773, known as the Red Dogs, in May. Corps Reserve and taking a position as lead TAC (assistant commandant) at Valley Forge Military Academy in Wayne, Pennsylvania.

He also pins on colonel in February and encourages folks in the Philly area to get in touch as drinks will be on him.

Corrie Brice checked in May and reported the following: “On March 29, I was promoted to lieutenant colonel in the U.S. Army. Colonel Alex DeVarona ’93 presided over the ceremony, and my wife, Dianna, and daughter, Victoria, pinned me. It was a great ceremony held in front of the United States Army Central Headquarters on Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Our time in South Carolina is coming to an end as we prepare for my next assignment as the 25th Infantry Division chief of fires/deputy fire support coordinator Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. We are looking forward to this next chapter in our lives.”

Pete Ehlers got in touch recently and provided the following update: “I’m at the Pentagon on the Joint Staff. Both Max Castlelyne and John Buchanan have flagged me down in the halls. I’m waiting for a major command assignment hopefully back to Jacksonville. Abby and I just celebrated our 20th anniversary this month. Seems like yesterday we were all hanging out at the Barnes Motel. If you are in Jacksonville or in D.C., please get in touch. I’m doing the geo-bachelor thing for the next year.”

Chris Noe completed his time at the Naval War College in Newport and recently sent the following note: “Melissa, the kids and I just moved back to Korea for another three years.

I’m serving for a year as the chief of staff for 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command and then I will have the privilege of taking

command of Materiel Support CommandKorea next year. I’m really feeling blessed with the opportunities God has provided me over the last 22 years. Our son, Stephen, has chosen to follow in his dad’s footsteps as he begins his three-year Army ROTC scholarship at the University of Alabama this year.” Chris was promoted to colonel in June, and Stew Holt was able to make the trip and attend the promotion.

John Buchanan also sent a quick note recently and wanted to let the class know about the great work the Kokolis brothers are doing. He recently attended a golf outing with several other BRs in Williamsburg, Virginia. Thousands of dollars were raised for the Keydet Club, and more importantly, a good time was had by all.

That’s it for this edition of notes. Thank you to all that checked in.

Until next time, all the best to you and your families.

Tom

1997

David M. Hudock

Gentlemen of the Old Corps! Coming to you straight out of the wholly gentrified and not-so-mean streets of northwest Washington, D.C., this here is your summer 2018 edition of your class notes. Welcome and prepare to be somewhat underwhelmed; save the full-on underwhelm-ness for later, because I have not yet begun to write poorly, or so said some old dude on a wooden ship once upon a time.

Nevermind! We start our journey this

Class of 1997: Lt. Col. Ben Bird ’95, Col. Mike Obadal ’96 and Lt. Col. Mike Belenky before the start of graduation ceremonies at the National Defense University, June 7, 2018.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1997: The class flotilla took a photo break in Goshen this summer.

Present were John Bushman; Don Crook; Mike Zirkle; John’s son, Jay; Billy Scott; and Elk Richardson. Photo courtesy Ad Hagan.

Class of 1997: Addison Hagan stood behind Andy Clark as Andy demonstrated his generosity for his brother rats at a recent Washington Nationals game in Washington, D.C., following Steve Strain’s promotion.

Class of 1997: Michael Goldman ’00, left, with Will Tong after accidentally meeting at Utah’s Arches National Park this summer.

mid-August by recognizing the fact that onor-about this writing, exactly 25 years have passed since we showed up at Crozet Hall for the omelet lady’s wares! On the way to her omelet station, of course, was the Rat Line, but who remembers details such as those? We came to VMI for the chow!

Also this summer 25 years ago, a certain Ed Bonham of Caroline County fame graduated from Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island. He celebrated that fact this summer by moving his girlfriend, Lynne, and her daughters down to Virginia from balmy New Hampshire. When he’s not practicing his, “To-therear ... march!” maneuver, Ed is in charge of training and compliance at the fire department.

Caroline County residents, and the rest of us, breathed a giant sigh of relief upon hearing of this development! Ed continued his celebration by linking up with Ray Roberts who was in the Fredericksburg area from Saudi Arabia. Nice of y’all to get together, but tell us, Ray, what’s going on in Saudi?

This season also happens to be graduation season, and I have two top level school graduations to announce: U.S. Army Lt. Col. Mike Belenky graduated from National Defense University right here in fabulous Columbia, the District of, and U.S. Air Force Col. Steve Strain graduated from Air War College in delightful Montgomery, Alabama. This was a dual-cool season for Steve, as he also happened to pin on his current rank of colonel here in D.C. in July.

Joining Steve and his wife, Holly, for the occasion were some ’97 all-stars like Andy Clark, Greg Reynolds, O.J. Johnson and omnipresent Ad Hagan, along with almost all of their families. I joined in the after-ceremony celebration

at Nats Park, where Clark insisted on buying our entire section hotdogs. Most of them ended up going to the Johnson family, but the gesture was definitely appreciated. Congratulations to Mike and Steve, and thanks, Andy, for the dogs!

Jim Rodgers popped up from Down Under, where he is now a serving member of the Australian Army. Evidently, Vicenza, Italy – which was his last duty station with the U.S. Army – was not cool enough for Jim, and after moving to Brisbane, Australia, from Italy, he decided to apply for dual-citizenship which he received!

And if that isn’t enough, he’s getting married to an American gal in Florida this December; Merry Christmas! Great news on all fronts, Jim; thanks for dropping in!

Speaking of Christmas, my Jewish high school classmate and fellow Anne Arundel County native, Ian Brooks, finally answered his phone all the way in Kaneohe, Hawaii, to fill me in on the past few years. The last time I saw Ian was in 2010 when I left K-Bay for California. Ian is a Marine reservist, though he has spent much of his reserve time activated, most notably at the head of the Wounded Warrior Battalion at Marine Corps Base, Hawaii. Coincidentally, he and Ty Moore were neighbors in base housing for a couple of years! Ty has moved on to Alaska, and Ian is off base again getting ready to open up his latest venture, Ko’o’lau Distillery! That’s right, folks, he’ll be bottling and selling Hawaii’s own bourbonwhiskey, soon available to Hawaii residents in a new tasting room outside of Kailua and to the rest of us online. He’s pretty stoked about this development, and since his wife, Katie, was just recently hired to teach out there, it looks as

though Ian, Katie and their two daughters will be in Hawaii for the foreseeable future. Thanks for checking in, bro; hang 10.

Justin Chezem and his family are celebrating their first anniversary as Virginia residents and are loving being back in his old “hood.”

Despite being in an ideally central location for brother rat visiting, he managed to get together with Mike Brown only once in the past year.

Cheezy did succeed in getting together with Jake Hickman for a couple beers at Sweet Waters in Sterling, Virginia. He has also talked John Bushman into donating his 20-year-old Army doctrine materials to George Mason’s Army ROTC cadets for their educational benefit (and also to clean out his garage). We all knew John to be a true patriot, and this really proves it. This is Cheezy’s final year in the Army; he’ll close out his career in his current position as the program director and professor of military science at George Mason University, where he is taking one final shot at molding our future Army leaders into officers! When he’s not influencing the next generation, he’s traveling with his family – most recently to OBX but also to his former stomping grounds in Louisiana for a friend’s wedding. Thanks for sharing, Cheezy, and continue living the good life!

Will Tong dropped me a line from his place up in Timonium, Maryland. His most recent BR encounter was with Billy LaMountain in D.C. during a trip Billy’s family took to our nation’s capital while Billy was on temporary duty at Andrews Air Force Base. Billy is a member of the Air Force’s medical flight personnel, as Will put it, and is preparing to deploy later this year. Billy lives with his wife and three kids in North Carolina. Of note, his oldest son, Jacob,

2018-Issue 4

143

Class Notes

Class of 1997: Present for Col. Steve Strain’s promotion on Capitol Hill in July were Andy Clark, Greg Reynolds, Strain, Mike Belenky, O.J. Johnson and Ad Hagan. just finished his 4th Class year! Billy said he ran into Don Crook during nursing school but hasn’t seen him since. In addition to Billy, Will also ran into one of our BRs’ rats while hiking at Delicate Arch in Utah’s Arches National Park. Mike Goldman ’00 was Ryan Earley’s and Nate Shepperson’s rat and happened to be walking out of the park with his son as Will was walking in with his family. Mike’s red shirt was unmistakable, so Will stopped to chat and snapped a quick photo of the two of them.

Fellow Marine Brad Davis checked in from Reston, Virginia. Brad is still on active duty, currently serving as the operational test director for the replacement presidential helicopter at HMX-1 in Quantico, Virginia, where he is gearing up for a busy flight test schedule this fall. Outside of work, he has his hands full with two teenage daughters and a very busy wife in the real estate business. Looking to buy in northern Virginia? Let Brad know you want to speak with Nikki. Brad’s been at Quantico for about a year now and is contemplating what the future holds for him at the end of this tour.

He is admittedly a slacker when it comes to keeping up with our BRs, but he does make time for Joel Harding when he’s in town.

Joel Harding is keeping busy, as well. He just got back from temporary duty to Chad, where he was evaluating the Special Program for Embassy Augmentation and Response Team there. Joel explains it this way: “This is a fairly young and niche program that Defense Security Service has been running, but it’s really great stuff that we are doing with some of our partner nation law enforcement and security forces, mostly in Africa. During this tour, I’ve had the chance to add a few more ‘adventure destinations’ to my passport, like Niger and Mali.

The folks there are really great to see in action; they’re very motivated to train and work with our security personnel and Marines at our embassies. I’m happy to say that our training and

144

mentorship have made a real impact in these countries and enhanced the security profiles of our diplomatic facilities there. In addition to that, working with our mentors and instructors has been very rewarding.”

Joel was supposed to remain in his current assignment at the Office of Antiterrorism Assistance at least until summer 2019 but was recently asked to join the regional security office at the consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. So, with a little language training and some in-service training this fall and winter, he should be on the ground in Jeddah for a two-year tour starting in February.

He is very psyched about it and looking forward to the challenging work environment.

He goes on to say his boys are all growing too quickly; his middle son just began his high school career. Joel’s quite proud that he has opted to participate in the Marine Corps JROTC program where the senior Marine instructor is retired Lt. Col. Rick Barnes ’93.

Joel’s excited about Rick’s solid reputation, especially after learning Rick went through flight school with Brad Davis and Kenny Pierce. It’s a small world, Joel!

For those of you under the impression class agent duties are all fun and games, I am compelled to report that I joined other class agents and alumni chapter presidents at the Institute’s annual Volunteer Leadership Conference this spring in an effort to learn what it is we should be doing other than soliciting input for class notes a few times a year. I was joined there by rat roommate and San Diego Alumni Chapter president, Max Hopkins. Ad Hagan broke away from Neikirk Hall for a little bit one day and joined us for lunch. We foolishly didn’t snap a picture together, but we did give a few Old Yells and sing the Marine’s Hymn, so all was not lost.

Lastly, rumor has it that a small contingent of water-faring souls came together for a recent July weekend in Rockbridge County to enjoy

the Maury River and its tubing potential. Addison Hagan broke away from the Foundation to join John Bushman (and his son, Jay), Don Crook, Elk Richardson, Mike Zirkle and Billy Scott as they floated through Goshen Pass on a colorful variety of personal floatation devices.

I’m not sure the accompanying photo did any of them justice. Looks like it was a great time, fellas, and perhaps the first in a series of annual events?

And with that, we’ve reached the end of another set of class notes. Thanks to everyone who contributed; I really appreciate your time and willingness to participate! Enjoy the holiday season, and I look forward to hearing from everyone again soon.

1998

Joseph Bates Jr. Hamel Reinmiller

As I write this for the Aug. 15, 2018, submission, I am fresh off (returned last night) a salmon fishing trip to Shearwater Resort in Bella Bella, British Columbia. A group of us from work have been very fortunate to go on this trip for the last several years, and if you ever want a good excursion, I encourage you to look into it. It is a first-class experience, and the fish you bring home are excellent!

Let me first apologize to retired U.S. Air Force Maj. John H. Robbins, our honorary brother rat who wrote to me at the first of the year, but the email was buried in the Gmail account between submissions. He wrote: “You may not remember me, but I am an honorary BR ’98. I am currently a military exercise planner at Headquarters, U.S. Air Forces Europe/ Air Forces Africa, Ramstein Air Base, Germany. I recently met up with Ed Allen at a military exercise planning conference in Jinja, Uganda. Ed is currently a lieutenant colonel stationed at U.S. Army Africa in Vicenza, Italy.

He happened to recognize the class ring I was wearing at the conference that was presented to me by the Class of 1998, and we had a

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 1998: Joey Bates with a 49-anda-half-pound chinook salmon at the Shearwater Resort and Marina in British Columbia, Canada, Aug. 11, 2018.

Class of 1998: Jason and Kristen Fye welcomed son Hank to the family in June 2018.

Class of 1998: Tom Warburton and Jim Milliron with their significant others.

2018-Issue 4

nice conversation reminiscing about our days at VMI. It’s kind of amazing to meet up with VMI alumni in the most unusual places in the world. Please let any class members who happen to be in traveling in or stationed in Germany that my family and I have an open door to welcome them into our home.” Thanks for the update, sir, and I can assure you that we all remember who you are – in the bonds.

I received a photo of Tom Warburton and Jim Milliron from Hamel Reinmiller, so I included it in the Review. I did not have any notes, updates from the group, nor names, so I apologize that I could not share more. Tom and Jim, send me an update for the next one, and I hope you are well!

Jim Duncan (Jimmy back in the day) checked in for the first time in 20 years. Glad to finally hear from you; do not wait another 20, as we will be old men by then! Jim is living in Crozet, Virginia, with his family, practicing real estate and riding his bicycle as often as possible. A founding partner at Nest Realty Group, which has gone from one to 11 offices in 10 years, they have just started to offer Nest franchises as they expand up and down the East Coast. If you’re in Crozet, he would love to buy a beer for a BR. Thanks for checking in, Jim, and more importantly the invite; I will give you a shout the next time that I am in the area!

Sean Williams wrote in and shared that he and his wife, Kathryn (Georgia Southern gal), welcomed their first child, Shepherd Ryann Williams, to the ranks July 8, 2018, at 6 pounds, 3 ounces. His daughter’s middle name is Ryan, in honor of our fallen BR Ryan Betton. He happily reports that baby and mommy are doing great, and she will learn about the great VMI Class of 1998.

Jason Fye wrote in and shared that he was sad to miss the reunion, but he and Kristen were busy preparing for the arrival of their first child, Hank, in June. He says that being older first-time parents is definitely a process that will no doubt require liver-damaging amounts of Advil as he gets older and is more prone to jumping off things and onto them. He also says that he is very thankful that his son has his mother’s nose. Jason, congratulations on the birth of your son, and thank you for taking the time to write in. I hope you guys are doing well, and stay in touch!

Well, this concludes another edition of our

Class of 1998: Sean and Kathryn Williams welcomed daughter Shepherd to the family July 8, 2018. class notes. While I did not receive many submissions, I did receive a few emails, texts and phone calls from a few folks about the 25th Reunion expressing a desire to take an active role in its planning. Ironically, none of these guys sent me an update for the Review (you know who you are), so check in soon! They each stated that they wanted to be more involved in an effort to make it a larger scale event as we stare at the back half of life. The feedback received was great, and my commitment to each of you who contacted me is that I will have shared that information with Hamel before you read these notes so that we can all get cranking in the coming year. I will share one comment, which was that it was sad to see people in the class picture who were not at the parties (for whatever reason), missing that valuable time to connect and catch up together. I encourage anyone with feedback on the 25th Reunion (and beyond) to contact me so that we can lure everyone out for the events and spend more time catching up.

I must repeat this from last time, as it means something to me: 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 encourage you to download the VMI app so you can see who may be around you in your travels; it is interesting. The next edition is due Nov. 15, 2018, so please send me some updates (vmi98classnotes@gmail.com). If anyone wants to link up in Charlotte, shoot me a note. Rah Virginia Mil! ’98, ’98, ’98!

145

Class Notes

1999

William Steinbach

Brother Rats, Jason Grubaugh sent me his first update in a very long time. He says he is at the 18-and-ahalf year point in a very rewarding Air Force career. After about nine years of flying B-52Hs, he went off to staff at Langley Air Force Base then transitioned to the Tactical Air Control Party world and spent an awesome four years commanding and leading battlefield airmen at Fort Carson and Fort Riley. During that tenure, he was deployed in 2014 to Camp Arifjan, Kuwait, as the senior air liaison officer to stand up the Air Force staff at the Combined Joint Task Force Headquarters for Operation Inherent Resolve. After he wrapped up squadron command in 2017, he went back to Barksdale Air Force Base to get a full requalification in the B-52H, and then took a combat assignment as the deputy operations group commander at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar, where he remains today. He said in addition to raging again in the B-52 and decimating the enemy, he has been fortunate to fly on five different aircraft in their group, experiencing the airlift, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and distinguished visitor transport missions. He says it has been a great year, but he is looking forward to getting back home. His next job will be on the Joint Staff at North American Aerospace Defense Command/U.S. Northern Command at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado. Jason has called Colorado home for the past six years, and that’s where he and his wife, Martha, will most likely retire. He tells me you can’t beat the weather, and the hiking/camping during the summer and skiing in the winter is about as good as it gets. He isn’t kidding.

Colorado Springs is a great town in one of the most beautiful parts of the country. Speaking of country, our own Andy Fox is both the Maryland state and world bowfishing record holder for northern snakehead. Andy arrowed the record-breaking fish back in May, and it tipped the scales at almost 20 pounds. Aaron Hamilton first noticed that the Wikipedia page

146

for northern snakehead did not list Andy as the record holder. Big thanks to Conor Powell for making it right!

Our 20th Reunion will be held April 26-27, 2019. More details to follow. If you are reading this and have not reached out to me in the last few years to update your email address, please do so (see email in the header). The list I have has so many bad email addresses that get returned as undeliverable that I do not send out mass emails from that list anymore. I would really like to get it cleaned up as best as I can so I can hopefully provide our next class agent a good email roster when I do the battle handoff at the reunion.

In the bonds, Bill

2000

Jim Boatright

Brother Rats, As I write this update from down south in Georgia, we are in the midst of a hot summer with seemingly endless rain. School is starting back and our kids are growing up fast. All is a reminder to appreciate each and every day with family and friends. Let’s get right into the class notes.

The first update I received was just a couple of days after the last edition was submitted, and it was an invitation to the change of command ceremony for Lt. Col. Bubba Massie. Bubba took command of the 127th Brigade Engineer Battalion, and the ceremony was conducted in June at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Congrats, Bubba!

We were a little slow on updates for this edition, and as always, I called on our class social media chair, Pat Haddock, to get the word out on the Facebook, and the floodgates opened.

Tim Catalano checked in and says that he, his wife and seven kids are doing well and living in the Hampton Roads area of Virginia. They plan to stay there another couple of years, and Tim says he cannot believe that the 20-year military career milestone is on the horizon.

Tim stays in contact with Greg Bosley and wishes they were able to visit more often. Greg,

Class of 2000: Paul Belmont and his family celebrated his promotion at the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia. his wife and three kids live in Houston, Texas.

Tim also catches up with T.J. Walker a couple of times a year. T.J. took a position with Amazon, and he and his family made a big move to the Seattle, Washington, area. Tim sees Matt Kukla on a frequent basis. Matt is an Army civilian working in Huntsville, Alabama. Tim and Matt work together on a couple of programs in the army acquisition community.

It is always great to hear from Tony Cerella.

Tony and his family just moved from Germany to Italy. Tony updates that their twins, Tony and Sophie, will be 10 in September and will start at an international school. Tony is assigned to an Italian headquarters in a NATO billet just outside of Milan. The family is finishing the paperwork to live in an apartment in the heart of Como, Italy, and are looking forward to learning Italian and seeing more of Europe. Tony continues to work on his doctorate degree, which is taking up most of his free time.

A couple of days later, I heard from Ian Doyle. Ian works in the information technology consulting industry and has spent time in the federal civilian government sector and defense. He has consulted for a number of Department of Defense organizations, including Defense Information Systems Agency, Joint Task Force-Global Network Operations and United States Strategic Command. After 12 years in the D.C. area, IBM lured him away with the promise to live where he wanted if he could help build the cybersecurity sales practice. Ian and his family settled in Norwich, Vermont, for four years before moving to Cape

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 2000: Tony Cerella and family in Italy, where they just relocated from Germany.

Elizabeth, Maine, in June 2018. Ian plans to get involved with the VMI New England Chapter.

Next to check in was Conrad Bicknell, call sign SPAMR, who updated he is still living in Stuttgart, Germany, working at United States Africa Command as an activated Navy reservist. Conrad is on schedule to return to American Airlines next year to resume his career in commercial aviation. He says summertime is great in Germany, and the biergarten culture is fantastic. Conrad says the kids and wife are doing well, with one in grade school and the other finishing kindergarten. Conrad has run into a few Old Corps guys who also work at USAFRICOM, including Ed Kopsick ’80 and Kurt Hedberg ’86. Conrad also stays in touch with Chuck Minski, Pat Haddock, Micah North, Beau Mason and Nick Castleberry and also

Class of 2000: Paul Belmont, Chris Lowrance and Cadet Willem Sciandra ’21 at a dinner hosted by Belmont in West Point, New York, where both Belmont and Lowrance are stationed.

2018-Issue 4

Class of 2000: Will Warthen, Jay Kearney, Scott Johnson and Jim Boatright during a mini reunion at Johnson’s house in Manassas, Virginia. crossed paths with Brent Kennedy on a random video teleconference. Conrad also heard from Winston Brown recently, and he is starting a commercial airline pilot career, as well.

B.J. Arvin started his third year of teaching after relocating to Knoxville, Tennessee, and is coaching both track and cross-country.

Chris Lowrance checked in and updated that he and Paul Belmont are both stationed at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point as assistant professors. Paul is teaching in the history department, and Chris is teaching in the electrical engineering and computer science department. Chris ran into some VMI cadets working at the Army Cyber Institute as ROTC summer interns. Chris hosted a dinner, and Paul and Cadet Willem Sciandra ’21 were able to attend. Sciandra finished the Rat Line and is a computer science major who plans to commission into the Air Force. Paul sent me a follow-up note and included a picture of his family at his promotion ceremony in Philadelphia. Paul describes his time in Philly as “chasing popes, presidents and hurricanes.”

Paul Webber checked in and said he recently graduated from the Naval Postgraduate School with a Master of Science degree in defense analysis, which he says is a “mashup of anthropology, statistics, game theory, network analysis and political science.” He said it was a great way to spend 18 months with his family in Monterey, California. Mike Myers was also in a program at the same time that will have him working as a foreign area officer for the foreseeable future. Paul and his family have moved back to the Wilmington, North Carolina, area, and he is back at the Marine Corps Special Operations Command working in the

plans section of the headquarters. Paul was promoted to lieutenant colonel in September.

On their move across the country Paul and his family were able to visit nine national parks and stop in Greenville, South Carolina, to hang out with Matt Neely and his family. Thanks for the update, Paul, and congratulations on the promotion!

I received an email from John Wilson. John just finished law school at Regent University in Virginia Beach and passed the Texas bar exam.

He also took the Virginia bar exam and will get results in October.

Jeremy Berry and I also traded a few emails about some VMI business, and he is doing well. Scott Johnson hosted a mini reunion at his house in Manassas in early August, and Will Warthen, Jay Kearney and Jim Boatright were in attendance. Whit Johnston was there in spirit but had a previous commitment and could not attend. We shot some skeet, grilled some good food, and drank a lot of beer. The highlight of Saturday night was a video call to Keane Jones. Keane is doing great and is still stationed in Colorado with the Navy. We also had a call with Pat Haddock who was at drill that weekend, and I’m sure he enjoyed talking to a bunch of incoherent, drunk brother rats. It was a great time; thanks for hosting, Scott!

Let’s continue the tradition of recognizing our brother rats who have celebrated 40th birthdays since the last set of notes: Shaun DeVane, Joe Gorski, Jim Boatright, Rich Baltimore, Don Ferguson, Joe Carter, Chris Lucas, Ed Ekpoudom, Alex McMorris, Justin Wood, Ben Marchi, Scott Kuebler, John Archer, Tim Catalano, Mike McDaniel, Ian Doyle, Scott Johnson, Jon Hartsock, Mike Meyer, John Pomfret, Jeremy Clary, Chris Gamble, Robbie Chenault, Read Parker, Bradley Allen, Devon Jones, Brett Martin, Josh Petry, Matt Vordermark, Jimmy Banton, Chris Boswell, Kenny Denton, Conrad Bicknell, Frank Jackson, Paul Webber, Jared Snawder, Eric Schnabel, Miten Bhavsar, Tom Craig, Mickey Wing, Will Ward, Grady Craun, Colin Mahle and Anthony Esteve.

Please remember you can send updates to classnotes2000vmi@gmail.com. Finally, and most importantly, to all our brother rats who have served or are currently serving our great country: Be safe, and thank you!

147

Class Notes

2001

Rich Groen

Brother Rats of the Class of 2001!

I hope that this finds you well! Things are great from my foxhole. Desiree is about a month out from delivery; thank you so much for the notes and gestures of support. Armywise, we are getting ready for our transition from Fort Leavenworth to Fort Hood and, in the process, ran into Dan Gibson ’98 (fresh out of battalion command and incoming Pre-Command Course instructor). My former teammate, Jeff Rhodes ’00, recently PCS’d to Fort Lewis, Washington, working within the corps staff and prepping for command in summer 2019.

I received some awesome news from some of our classmates. Wilson Mustian writes, “I graduated from Command and General Staff College at Fort Leavenworth in June 2018.

Back to reserve status as a JAG in the 29th Infantry Division and tax attorney with the Virginia Department of Taxation.” Great to hear from you, Wilson, and congrats on your recent graduation!

Drew Dickinson says, “The family and I relocated to Richmond, Virginia, just last month for job transfer. Enjoying getting settled into the new spot but definitely missing the beaches of Tidewater where we had been for the past couple of years. Getting to catch up with Brandon Garrett; he and I work together at Carter

Class of 2001: Brandon Farris and U.S. Secretary of Energy Rick Perry at a Texas State Society event in Washington, D.C. 148

Class of 2001: Attending a room 152 reunion in 2018 were, from left, front row, Elijah, Jennifer and Sam Ward.

Back row: Joe Gunter; Sean, Dan, and Jennifer Stock; and Chris and Jessica Tyree.

Machinery – so good to have someone else in ’01 in close proximity. Haven’t gotten to catch up with the rest of the Richmond crew yet but hoping to as we get settled in. I’m looking forward to catching some VMI football games this coming fall with my sons now that we are a little closer.” Awesome to hear from you, Drew.

It’s great to hear you are well, and let Brandon know I say hello!

Fellow Army buddy Elijah Ward writes, “A few notes for you since it has been a bit. Jenn and I are now at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, since June 2017 when I left Korea. I am working at Army Cyber Command as a special assistant to the commanding general. The biggest news is that we welcomed John Warner Ward May 17.

Big brother Sam (3 years old) and the rest of us are excited. Being in northern Virginia offers a chance to see quite a few folks, including Vic Zottig, Rob O’Neal, Ryan Peay ’02 and Andy Stafford ’99. On Sam’s birthday, all of my 1st Class roommates from room 152 were able to come over. Also, while traveling in July in CENTCOM, I also saw J.B. Turner and Mike Nelson ’99.” Elijah, congrats on the new addition and job! It’s great to hear you are well.

My former roommate, Ben Griffith, says, “Congrats on the nearing new addition to your family! I am sure that it has been a long nine months; I hope the sleepless nights don’t come too quickly!

“First off, Alyssa and I are proud that we have survived the first year of Emersyn’s life.

She has managed to train us well in tending to her every need, night and day, but we are amazed at how fast she is growing and learning. Alyssa, Emersyn and I are working hard to make Watchdog Winery a reality. We had a pretty harsh winter which resulted in a few vines submitting to a late frost. However, the vast majority continued to be very vigorous

Class of 2001: Carl Haas attended the Mexico versus Bermuda lacrosse final game in 2018. and keep us quite busy trying to keep them tamed and growing in one direction and not all directions at once. Additionally, we are trying to manage this venture from 250 miles away.

So, it isn’t hard to believe that we are excited to make a move from Bozeman to Missoula in the next few months.

“We have big plans to build a winery in the coming months but are waiting for a few grapes to mature this September to seal the deal for next year’s full production and harvest. Anyone who has any experience in wine making/ winery building, we are looking for any advice we can get! Or to anyone who wants to be part of the adventure, we always welcome help!”

Ben, great to hear you are well and praying that our little one will sleep through the night! I’m sending prayers out for your family and growing business!

My close friend, Carl Haas, writes, “Been a busy spring here for us. In late April, I finished my first season as head coach at Alvernia, and we struggled. A new staff will have that effect sometimes, as we all try to learn from and about each other. Hopes are high for the 2019 spring!

In July, I was able to travel to Israel to coach in the FIL World Lacrosse Games (the World Cup of Lacrosse). They are held every four years (just like the soccer one!) and I assisted the Mexican National Team. My younger brother, Andrew, was the head coach so I had an ‘in’ on the staff! We stayed right on the Med at a kibbutz called Hadassah Neurim north of Netanya (which is where the games were played). My third day there, we took a trip to Jerusalem; what an amazing experience to see all of the history there! The U.S. beat Canada for the gold medal in the final of the games. Mexico had a solid showing but ultimately short of what

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 2001: Lt. Col. Mike Nelson ’99, Maj. Gen. Jon Mott ’82, Lt. Col. J.B. Turner and Maj. Elijah Ward in the U.S. Central Command headquarters in July 2018. we were hoping for. Overall, a tremendous experience and one I will never forget!

“In other news my son, Will, turned one in July (while I was away), but he’s going to have a little sister in December! Hope you’re doing well! Miss you, big fella!” Miss you, too, Carl. Great to hear that you are doing well, and amazing pictures!

I also received a note from Justin Harber. “I hope you are doing well and thanks for collecting the class notes. The big news for my family is that my wife, Dawn, gave birth to our first child, a daughter named Adelaide, in June. Mom and baby are thankfully doing well and Adelaide is doing her best to keep her mom and dad on their toes. In June, I also published a novel titled “The Flames of My Fathers” under a pseudonym, and am working on marketing it in between changing diapers. I am still at the Pentagon and meet up with Angela Scott, Kevin Fromm and Dan Stock about once a month for a VMI lunch. Thanks for all your work as class agent.” Justin, thanks for

Class of 2001: The Wards’ newest addition, John Warner Ward, was born May 17, 2018.

2018-Issue 4

reaching out, and congrats on the novel! Also, give my best to our Pentagon alum!

The elusive James Shircliffe contacted me: “I have given up life in the Washington, D.C., suburbs for the frontier of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Although I’ll be traveling to D.C. and New York several times a year on the government’s dime.” Great to hear from you, brother. I may come crash at your place in New Mexico. I hope all is well!

Special thanks to our class president, Charlie Bunting, who was able to work a huge order with Wear Blue to create shirts that honor our class’ fallen. Even Willie Moses noted, “Thank you for providing the information about the Wear Blue shirts; they are awesome, and I’ve ordered two of them! Hope you’re doing well, and give ’em hell, colonel!” Thanks again, Charlie, and I sure will, Willie!

It’s amazing to see the strong bonds that our class displays despite distances. It was great to hear from all of your and please stay connected! ’01, ’01, ’01!

Class of 2002: Sean Hoover took command of the 203rd Military Intelligence Battalion at a change of command ceremony at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland.

2002

Salmaan Khawaja

Brother Rats, I hope you all are well and enjoying the fall and perhaps making it back to the “I” to see all the newly completed construction and take in a football game or two.

Sean Hoover took command of the 203rd Military Intelligence Battalion at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. Sean notes that this battalion falls in the Army Reserve and is the only TECHINT Battalion in the entire U.S. Army. As battalion commander, Sean is responsible for a unit which conducts specialized exploitation of foreign material. Congratulations on this major achievement!

Jason Breeding recently accepted a new position as a vice principal of a school in the Roanoke, Virginia, area. Jason has been tasked with improving academic performance across all students, and I am more than sure he is going to perform excellently there.

J.M. Nemish has been graciously helping provide updates, as well. He notes that Matt Erwin is living in Richmond, Virginia, and working for S.B. Cox and doing well. Matt got

Class of 2002: Paul Carroll, Leven Harrison and J.M. Nemish took a break from skiing the slopes to have this picture taken in Vail, Colorado, in February 2018. married last year to Ms. Jenn Brumfield and some of Matt’s BRs helped celebrate this momentous occasion in Mexico with the happy couple.

Paul Carroll is living in Denver, Colorado, and is working as a coastal engineer for a firm in Charleston, South Carolina. Paul got married last year to Ms. Carly Scahill in a wedding attended by numerous BRs, which turned into a three-day party. J.M. notes that, at Paul’s wedding, he met up with Derek Swenk. Derek, his wife, and two children live in Richmond, Virginia, are doing well. Derek is working for Cleveland Cement.

Chris Mills owns a trucking company in the Richmond, Virginia, area which is doing great and growing fast. Joey Gibson is living with his wife and two daughters in Jacksonville, Florida. Joey leads a team for the Stryker Corporation that works with orthopedic physicians who perform joint replacement surgeries.

David Ross ran into Laura and I (and the kids) at a local Wegman’s grocery store. David is a 16 year veteran and lieutenant at the

149

Class Notes Richmond Fire Department.

Ben Midura, his wife, and their two children are living in Milton, Virginia, where Ben is teaching high school.

J.M. Nemish continues to fly high on life and is working for the Federal Reserve Bank of Richmond.

Thank you to all those who kindly submitted notes this go around. I look forward to hearing from my other BRs soon! Best wishes to all of you and hope you all have a wonderful 2019. ’02! ’02! ’02!

In the spirit, Salmaan and J.M.

2003

William Talley V

Brother Rats, It’s August as I type of this set of notes, and soon we’ll be at the Institute celebrating our 15th Reunion. It has been 19 years since we matriculated! Time sure does fly, but the bonds forged over our years spent inside the four walls of barracks are stronger now than ever.

This set of notes is going to be short, as I’ve only got one submission. However, the next set that’s due in November will be full.

Nick Shallcross checked in and let me know that he just finished up as the 1st Infantry Division assistant chief of staff of plans (G5). The Army is now sending him to get his Ph.D. in industrial engineering and decision analysis at the University of Arkansas. He and his wife, Amanda, just arrived in Fayetteville in July, and he began class mid-August.

Billy Schaller and his wife, Katherine, welcomed a daughter, Diana Bernal Schaller, into the world Aug. 11. By the looks of what’s been

Class of 2003: Billy and Katherine Schaller welcomed their first child, Diana Bernal Schaller, Aug. 11, 2018.

150

posted on Facebook, they are all doing well and are enjoying being new parents. Congratulations!

I caught up with Joe Voorhees briefly while down it the Outer Banks over the July Fourth holiday. He and his ladies are all doing well.

I’ve been in contact with several BRs as reunion information was released, as well.

I do want to take a moment to thank the VMI Alumni Association for their support of our class and our 15th Reunion. As those of you who attended the reunion know, the hotel cost was a bit steep, which appears to be a problem at many of the hotels. In an effort to help offset some costs to our class, the Alumni Association voluntarily offered to make a financial contribution toward our dinner Friday at Moody Hall. This offer was unsolicited and very gracious of the Alumni Association. So, if you come into contact with Thom Brashears ’95 or any of the staff of the Alumni Association, please be sure to tell them thank you for their support of our class.

All right, that’s all for this set. Rah Virginia Mil ’03, ’03, ’03!

2004

Class of 2004: Lt. Col. Rod James and Hrvoje Glasnovic at lunch in Samobor.

Class of 2004: Ryan Koniak caught up with Lt. Col. Mike Waltz ’96 at his change of command ceremony. Waltz took command of Koniak’s Special Operations Detachment-OTAN/NATO, June 10, 2018.

Scott E. Campbell C. Justin Roberts

Jim Palmer and Libby Olson were married at a ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee, June 16, 2018.

Ryan Koniak was caught up with Lt. Col. Mike Waltz ’96 at his change of command ceremony. Lt. Col. Waltz took command of Ryan’s special operation detachment, OTAN/ NATO, June 10, 2018. He’s been in the SOD for three years now and serves as the detachment’s primary jumpmaster and personnel manager.

Rob Wilson made it home from another deployment at the beginning of June.

Derek Raymond is deployed, yet again, to the Middle East supporting Operation Inherent Resolve. He writes, “Traveling through, I ran in to Matt Vogel at Ali Al Salem Air Base

Class of 2004: Jim Palmer and Libby Olson were married at a ceremony in Nashville, Tennessee, June 16, 2018. in Kuwait. Someone in the Air Force thought it was a good idea to put him in charge of things!

Hard to imagine, but he’s crushing it as any good Keydet would. Matt said Cam and his girls miss daddy, but they’re doing great. Before I deployed, the family and I did an epic East Coast road trip and saw Ryan Walker and Becca in Richmond. He’s turning in to a modern day Matlock, and his boys are running

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 2004: Matt Vogel and Derek Raymond at Ali Al Salem Air Base, Kuwait. circles on the diamond. As for me, the family is settled in sweltering Tampa, and my three boys are keeping Lilya busy by running amok.

Looking forward to getting home before the holidays.”

Matt Vogel wrote, “I ran into my roommate/ Brother Rat Derek Raymond at Ali Al Salem Airbase in Kuwait. I am currently the DO of the 5EAMS (running the air ops) doing a 1-year tour. (Sucks). I took him to the chow hall, and to repay me, he beat me in three games of pool.

I guess the Army does not have a real mission anymore, so he has ample practice time. Haha.

He was heading up north, doing Army things.

Once again, hope this finds you well. Terror squad is alive and well.”

Too bad you guys weren’t a year or two earlier in your tours. I was getting home this time last year.

After six years as a senior staffer on Capitol Hill, Ryan Consaul started a new opportunity as a senior researcher with the RAND Corporation. He spends the rest of his time chasing his 17-month-old daughter, Eliza. He and his family will be moving soon to Arlington, Virginia.

The recently pinned Lt. Col. Rod James has started moving the family back to the states from Ramstein Air Base, Germany. Rod said, “I’ll be assuming the operations officer position in the 389th Fighter Squadron at Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho. During my time in Germany, I was able to meet up with Nadia Wendlandt, who lived about an hour away from us in Mannheim. Just before leaving, we did a road trip to Austria, Slovenia, Croatia and Bosnia. The family met up with Hrovje Glasnovic in his hometown of Samobor. It was great seeing him; we spent a solid three-hour European

2018-Issue 4

lunch together. We’re looking forward to hopefully making the next reunion.”

Jim Bean just finished up his time as a battalion executive officer at Fort Bragg, where Jon Fanelli ’10 was one of the battery commanders. He writes, “Sami and I have now PCS’d to Fort Leavenworth, where I will serve as a fires observer, coach/trainer at Mission Command Training Program. We are living in Lansing again, just two doors down from the house we were in for Command and General Staff College three years ago.

“Sami and I traveled to Fort Sill the first weekend of August to promote Tom Brown ’14 to captain. While there, The Patriot Club was hosting an event put on by the Red Leg Brewing Company (owned by Todd Baldwin ’06). There were a lot of alumni in attendance, ranging from Lt. Col. Brendan Toolan ’98 to some brand-new Class of 2018 second lieutenants I do not remember the names of.

Todd said that Red Leg Brewing Company is planning some similar trips to Fort Carson, Riley, Leavenworth, etc. soon, so keep your ear to the ground, and don’t miss a chance to support a fellow Keydet’s beer company.

Be sure to try the Helo Hefeweizen. It’s delicious.”

I passed through Red Leg a few years back.

Jim is right. It’s good stuff!

John Casper wrote from the Institute, “Things continue to go well here at VMI as the associate chaplain to the Corps. I am entering into my fifth year in the chaplains’ office and my 10th year working for the Institute. It is hard to believe that our great-greatgreat-grand rats are 1st Class cadets this year, ready welcome their own rats. Our dyke continues to be very strong. Rah Virginia Mil! If anyone is passing through Lexington, let me know; I’d love to say hello and show some of the cool things happening around post!”

The federal recognition process for my promotion to major finally came through in May, after a 13 month delay. There was a relatively impromptu promotion ceremony held during drill at Fort A.P. Hill in the gas chamber with Lt. Col. Edward Lewis ’02 presiding. Lt. Col. Charles Reinhold ’99 and Capt. Matthew Mawyer ’10 were also present. 23 months to retirement!

Dates for our 15th Reunion are still tentative, but it’s set for the first fall reunion weekend in 2019.

Take care! Be safe, and keep in touch!

Scott Campbell

2005

Tom Hardinge Timothy Johnson

Brother Rats, As we look forward into the upcoming holiday season, it is with a heavy heart that I bring you these class notes. As you have heard, Brother Rat Robert Oaks died in July, leaving behind his longtime girlfriend, Karen Dursteler, and her two sons, as well as many, many beloved friends, family and relatives.

You didn’t have to know Big Rob to know Big Rob. His outsized stature was only matched by his outsized persona. And while I personally didn’t have a close relationship with Rob, I was still captivated and immediately uplifted by his smile and presence in and around barracks.

This month, I would like to dedicate this space to Big Rob and those who knew him well.

Sean Moore: “Word quickly spread on the evening of July 31 that the VMI Class of 2005 lost one of their brothers. Robert James Oaks, known throughout the Corps by his simple yet highly representative surname, was a friend to any man or woman who ever crossed through Jackson Arch. Oaks served as the ’05 class president for three years and cherished his time at the ‘I’ as much as any other time in his life.

“A member of the football team, Oaks arrived in Lexington with the rest of the rat football players at the beginning of August 2001.

His dyke was class president Mark Grigsby ’02, and his rat was Chad Tobin ’08. Oaks did

Class of 2005: Gabriela Arraiz with Rob Oaks at the 10th Reunion.

151

Class Notes

Class of 2005: Matt Dowler, Jim Driggs, Sean Moore and Daniel “D.J.” Hansen represented the class at Robert Oaks’ funeral services. not complete his cadetship at VMI, and those who knew him closely in our years following graduation know that was a painful and bitter regret which always haunted him. Those who knew him best know that the only people in the world who he held in as close regard as his brother rats were his family, who he loved without measure and who now miss him eternally.

He was never more proud than to speak of the qualities or accomplishments of his five younger brothers and sisters, and he spoke of no one more adoringly than his beloved mother, who preceded him in death, a victim of breast cancer.

“Several members of ’05 made the trip to Lindon, Utah, to observe and participate in the funeral services of their bigger than life BR. Jim Driggs addressed the enormous gathering of friends and family and gave a wonderful tribute to our dearly departed friend. Matt Dowler and I served as pallbearers. Oaks was a VMI man and he will be missed. Rest in peace, brother rat.”

Andrew Stribling: “Meeting Robert my rat year changed my idea of what a friend for life would be; he was instantly my new brother, and I looked forward to talks with him. I will miss him and miss just feeling safe with him as that big brother.”

Ben King wrote in with an anecdote that needs to be shared in full: “In summer 2016, my wife and I went to visit Rob while we were in Park City, Utah, for a wedding. We spent a few days with Rob and his girlfriend, Karen.

“One day in particular, Rob had set up the plan for the day for all of us. We started the day at the Stein Eriksen Lodge for brunch. This is a 5-star resort that Rob used to help with security at (and his uncle still worked there). We get to our table and look to our left, and there seated beside us is Katherine Heigl (the actress from movies like ‘Knocked Up,’ ‘One for the Money,’ ‘The Ugly Truth’). And, as it turned out, Rob did security for her wedding at that same resort a few years earlier. During breakfast, he leaned over and shook her hand (just like

152

Class of 2005: Big Rob Oaks. “Rest in peace, brother rat,” Class Agent Tom Hardinge said of this photo.

Class of 2005: Robert Oaks out with Tripp Smith.

he does with anyone) just to tell her she had a beautiful wedding. She actually remembered him and, unprompted, thanked him for keeping the paparazzi at bay at the ceremony, and we all shared a laugh about the story. Throughout the rest of breakfast, about a dozen hotel staff and random guests came over to shake Rob’s hand. Here we are, seated next to an actual movie star, and instead of her, Rob was the one everyone wanted to see.

“After breakfast, our day of royal treatment continued, as Rob’s uncle drove us down to the Park City market to enjoy a walk through town. As we started our stroll, you would have thought we were walking around with the mayor of Park City. Every few steps, we had to stop and wait for Rob to shake someone else’s hand (and it was never just a handshake, it was a, ‘How’s your life,’ in Rob’s sincere way of always truly wanting to know how people are doing). He knew all the cops in town, he knew all the restaurant owners and he knew half the random visitors there, too, it seemed, and we were always happily greeted at any establishment we walked into.

“From there, the day ended with lounging and, of course, top notch service at the Waldorf Astoria pool deck. But the service wasn’t inherently top-notch because it was a fancy place; it was top-notch that day because even the poolside bartenders knew Big Rob and were happy to show his friends a good time.

“All in all, my wife and I were spoiled on that trip, and it was hard to say goodbye, but the real reason I love sharing that story is that it shows the man that Rob Oaks is and always has been. The people who were so happy to shake his hand and chat for a few minutes didn’t do so because he was famous. No, they did so because he lived a life that brought a smile to their faces just by knowing him. He

went through trials and tribulations in his own life, but one thing I never saw leave Rob in those tough times was his love for people and his love for life. He was a big guy, but his heart and personality were even bigger! Rob lived a full life. He will be sorely missed, and there will be a huge void in his absence. But it’s stories like this that we can look back on with great fondness and be challenged to live a full life that makes others want to smile just by being around you. God bless you, Robert Oaks.”

Jim Driggs: “Robert James Oaks passed July 31, 2018, at the age of 38 years old. He is remembered by friends, family and the countless lives he touched. Well-known for the best bear hugs and comforting ability to console, Big Rob was a brother, son, classmate, teacher, leader and more all in one big package.

“The VMI Class of 2005 was well represented at Rob’s funeral near Salt Lake City, Utah, Aug. 9, 2018. I spoke at the services and told stories of the Rat Line, Ring Figure and Rob’s leadership within the VMI Corps of Cadets.

“Robert Oaks was the largest man in the room and also the gentlest. His stature gifted him the ability of having all others look up to him.

Coupled with the ability to genuinely listen and engage in conversation while finding a shred of humor in a gloomy situation, Robert Oaks was a gifted leader.

“Rob will always be remembered by his family, friends, brother rats of 2005 and the Corps of Cadets. Brother Oaks will be remembered as a leader of men. Rah Virginia Mil!” Thank you to all who sent in their photos and remembrances. Rob’s obituary is featured in the Taps section of this issue. Rest in peace, brother rat!

We will resume with the customary class notes in February. Until then, stay safe and be well.

Tom Hardinge

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

2006 Andrew Upshaw

Hey, Brother Rats, I hope all of you had a great summer! Benney, Berwell, Petronzio and I graduated Command and General Staff College together at Fort Leavenworth. Frank Dolberry also graduated SAMS a few weeks before and is now stationed

Class of 2006: Andrew Upshaw with Joel Burger.

Class of 2006: At Andrew Upshaw’s wedding to Eugenia were John Diehl; Eugenia; Andrew; and John’s wife, Mary Boyce.

Class of 2006: From left, Eric Samaritoni ’00, Frank Dolberry and Andy “Bull” Miller ’05.

2018-Issue 4

in Korea with 2nd Infantry Division. After that, Dan Petronzio and I got married on the same day – June 29 – in Germany. We both married German girls, too. Great minds must think alike! Dan and his wife, Julia, were also the witnesses to our “courthouse” wedding in Leavenworth, Kansas.

John Diehl was one of my groomsmen and was on the same flight with Dan on the way over to Europe. Taylor Thompson was also at Dan’s wedding and is doing well in the Marine Corps. After the wedding, I reported to my assignment at U.S. Army Europe Headquarters in Wiesbaden, Germany. In the first few days I was here, I met up with Joel Burger, who is a foreign service officer with the State Department in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He’ll definitely be an ambassador someday! Dave Santoro and his family are still living in Frankfurt, so I plan on linking up with them sometime in the near future. Anyway, you are all welcome to visit us in Europe whenever you like!

And remember, if you haven’t donated to VMI yet, then you’re wrong! Rah Virginia Mil! Ken R: “I am a chief executive officer of my company known as TRIDENT TACTICS, and I teach various international special operations units. I’m also an actor and have come out in numerous reality shows, documentaries and dramas.

Discovery Channel’s ‘First Man Out,’ BBC’s ‘Special Forces: Ultimate Hell Week,’ and MBC’s ‘Dunia’ (Korean drama) are some of the shows I’ve casted in, just to name some of the recent ones. ‘First Man Out’ should be a global launch in January 2019.” Before all of this, Ken served in the Korean Navy as a SEAL and also completed U.S. Seal training, so he wears two tridents on his uniform. During his service, he deployed and saw combat in the Middle East. He now works for the U.S. Department of State at the American Embassy in Seoul.

Nate Parsons: “The Parsons family recently moved back to Colorado, where we will plant roots and stay for life! We’re living in Castle Pines.

I’m now Denver based with Southwest and flying for the Reserve out of Colorado Springs. I’ve met up with Todd Baldwin at his brewery and purchased some Red Leg kegs for our annual mountain inter-fly. I recently learned that Matt Davis ’07 moved out to Thornton and plan to catch up with him soon. I’m also looking to get involved in the Rocky Mountain Chapter now that life has settled down a bit. Hope everyone is doing well!”

Lt. Cmdr. Dennis Crump completed his time as the special operation officer at Task Force 69 overseas in Naples, Italy and has moved to Annapolis, Maryland. He was selected as a junior permanent military professor to teach physics/engineering at

Class of 2006: Brenton Underwood with his wife, Paige, and their boys in the mountains. the United States Naval Academy. On the 15-hour PCS flight back to the States, it was a chance occurrence that Joe Davidoski was sitting one row in front of him returning from Iraq to visit his family. Dennis and his wife, Tarah, are expecting their third child this December.

Brenton Underwood: “As for the Underwoods, as of July 1, we have moved from Singapore. I am still with ExxonMobil, now on assignment outside of Southampton, U.K. Paige and the boys (Grant and Barrett) are doing well and we’re enjoying the change of scenery and pace. Before we moved we took a two-week trip across New Zealand – had a blast!”

2007

Maury Denton

Brother Rats, As always, summer has flown by. My family of five now is doing well in Richmond, Virginia, and happy that we are much closer to our parents/siblings/cousins. Parenting can be crazy at times but always “crazy fun,” in my opinion. We are also looking forward to our children’s first VMI visit this fall when we meet up with my roommates’ families for Founders Day weekend. Hope to see you all there for some cold beverages on the Parade Ground deck and lively nights in downtown Lexington.

Jamaal Walton recently married his beautiful wife, Marci, June 2, 2018, in Tacoma, Washington. They now both reside in Charleston, South

153

Class Notes

Class of 2007: Deuntay Diggs released his memoir, “Beneath the Scar: A Story of Resilience,” on Amazon, July 7, 2018.

Diggs is pictured at one of his book signings.

Class of 2008: Molly (Newton) Bergren received her master’s degree in civil engineering from Norwich University this past spring.

Class of 2007: Jamaal Walton married his wife, Marci, June 2, 2018, in Tacoma, Washington.

Carolina. Congratulations, Jamaal and Marci!

Matthew Kania transitioned out of the U.S. Navy in April, and he is now serving in the Naval Reserve and assigned to the Rapid Research & Development unit based in Patuxent, Maryland.

Matt is currently working for J.F. Taylor, a defense contractor, as a senior systems engineer for the Navy on F-18s. He and his wife, Gill, are also expecting their second son Nov. 6.

Deuntay Diggs released his memoir, “Beneath the Scar: A Story of Resilience,” on Amazon July 7. Good work on this achievement, Deuntay!

Those are all of the major class updates for this quarter. It was great catching up with you all, and please continue to keep me informed so we can stay up to date on everyone’s key milestones.

In the bonds, Maury Denton

2008

Robert Hill

By now, I hope those of you who attended the reunion have recovered from the weekend

154

activities. If you have ideas for our 15th in 2023, it’s never too early to start planning.

I’ll start off with congratulations to my roommate, Matthew Mitchell, and his wife, ArleneRaquel. They, along with their daughter welcomed Everleigh Grace July 23, 2018, at 2010 hours. Everleigh surprised everyone arriving a bit early. Lauren and I are extremely blessed to be her godparents. Congrats to the Mitchell family.

Molly (Newton) Bergren recently graduated from Norwich University. Molly completed a master’s of civil engineering with a concentration in environmental and water resources management. In addition to completing her masters, Molly and family relocated to Alexandria, Virginia. Molly was scheduled to begin working at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., in September. Congrats, Molly!

Jason Pettengill recently completed pre-deployment training and then deployed in July to Afghanistan. Jason will be serving as an Afghan air adviser flying the UH-60A with the Afghan forces. Jason reports his family is doing well. Jason, along with wife Sarah and children Rosley and Rhett, were able to spend some time with Phil Jones on the beach in Florida.

Brett Whitsitt recently completed his Master of Business Administration degree from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania after his transition out of the Navy. Brett has left J.P. Morgan and is working on a tech startup application in defense. Congrats on the degree and best of luck with the startup!

Andrew Czaplicki checked in from Los Angeles. He was able to spend a week this summer working at the L.A. Dream Center. The Dream Center is a faith-based charitable organization

that finds and fills the needs of struggling people from all over the United States. Andrew worked in various communities from Skid Row to Compton.

Joe Brennan checked in from the New York metro area. Since VMI, Joe has been in the art auction business. While working at Sotheby’s of Manhattan, they set the record for the highest auction price ever realized for Andy Warhol, Georgia O’Keefe and, at the time, Diego Giacometti. He is now working as an Art and Antiques Auctioneer with Millea Brothers, LTD. Last year, they set a world record selling a Ming Dynasty Chinese scroll painting. They recently discovered long lost artwork in NYC estates include a JMW Turner, last seen in 1897 and one of the only Vincent Van Gogh etchings ever made during his life. Recently, Joe and wife Devon, along with their 4-yearold daughter, Mercy, bought a house in High Bridge, New Jersey.

Andrew Stiles says hello from Wyoming.

Andrew stays busy working in the pipeline and refinery services industry and reports his wife, Bindy, and children, Michael and Jameson, are doing great. While he can’t make the reunion due to work obligations, Andrew plans on having a cold one for the class.

Lauren, Addyson and I have had a busy summer. We traveled to Florida this summer to visit Lauren’s family, as well as my dyke, Preston McFaddin ’05, along with his wife, Jenna, and children, Madison, Preston, Pierson and Phinleigh. We had a great time and rode the auto-train home. (Fun experience!)

We just recently returned from a week at the beach with Lauren’s family in Delaware and then attended the Central Keystone rat sendoff. We had six incoming cadets, four cadets and six alumni in attendance.

Our next edition of the Alumni Review allows us to have more photos than normal since we are having our 10th Reunion.

If you’d like to share some of your photos, please send them to me.

2009

Bradley Simpson

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2009.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

2010

Cody Hennelly Garland Gray III

Brother Rats, I hope these notes find you well, especially as we enter the holiday season. As I write, the summer is ending, and boy, has it been crazy for Jess, Wyatt and I! But, we have been able to catch up with a ton of BRs recently, so let’s get right into it!

Dominik Wermus wrote in with the following update. Barker Squire and Molly Duncan were recently married at the Squire Hill High Farm in Jarratt, Virginia. The ceremony was officiated by Maj. John Casper ’04, the associate chaplain of VMI. In attendance were all of Barker’s VMI roommates, save P.J. Karonis, who could not be found due to prior obligations overseas. A standing cardboard cutout behaved civilly in his place. Wes Whitcomb continues to serve with the U.S. Army. Caleb Dixon is a project manager for Architectural Products of Virginia. He and his wife, Abby, now have three daughters and continue to live in Richmond, Virginia. Josh Dixon joined the U.S. Secret Service and is now on his first duty station in Boston with his wife, Brittany, and their first son, Holton. Jared Starin and his wife, Bethany, live in Charlotte with their two sons. Jared recently joined the Blockchain startup company, AlphaPoint, as a software engineer. Also in attendance were Lucas Whitman, Billy Hupp ’77, Marshall Mundy ’56 and Barker’s dyke, Evan Hanks ’07. Dominik and his wife, Rui, are expecting their first child, a girl, this August.

Lucas Whitman and his wife, Jordan, live happily in Roanoke and recently added a beautiful black lab to the family. Evan Hanks and his wife, Rachel, made the trip from Colorado Springs, where Evan continues to teach at the Air Force Academy.

As for some other folks, Aaron McKeen recently married the former Asami Hakami, and together they moved to Groton, Connecticut, where Aaron is attending the Submarine Officer Advanced Course.

Alex, Brianna, Elizabeth and Zion Beckstrand

2018-Issue 4

Class of 2010: Alumni and families gathered at Fort Drum were, from left, Wyatt Hennelly (Rat Mass ’37 +3), Jessica Hennelly, Cody Hennelly, Racheal McElligott, Casey McElligott ’11, Zach Williams, Dick Wise ’68, Alex Hastings ’15, Nick Gillogly ’12 and Kate Gillogly. are together near Hartford, Connecticut, where Alex now works for Pratt and Whitney while attending American University for International Affairs and continuing to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve.

Gerald Popko is attending Georgia Tech for an electrical engineering degree in preparation for a teaching assignment at West Point.

Dominik recently finished graduate school at Johns Hopkins while continuing his career at the National Security Agency and in the Navy Reserve. Great job, Dominik, and thank you for the update on everyone!

Chris Martin wrote in to say he and his wife welcomed a son, Levi, April 1, 2017. Unfortunately, he was on a short timeline and couldn’t elaborate much more on family happenings.

Congratulations, dude!

Would you believe it, Casey and Racheal McElligot ’10/’11 moved in right across the street from Jess and I on Fort Drum! Casey and Racheal have two beautiful kids, Kailynn and Shannon. Zach Williams is also here on Drum, as well. We regularly find ourselves on the golf course; I’m not good! We all recently got together at a local restaurant for an event put on by Dick Wise ’68. Other alumni in attendance were Alex Hastings ’15 and Nick Gillogly ’12 and his beautiful wife, Kate. We had a great time, to say the least.

I recently got a note in the mail from Marjorie Davis, Ericsson Davis’ mother. She wrote in to let me know Jon Bisulca was going to be visiting soon. She also mentioned spoke with Nathan Fifer ’07, who is stationed in Miami with the Coast Guard. Most importantly, Marjorie mentioned that Ericsson’s memorial scholarship was able to fund a cadet to study abroad in Morocco last summer for the first time. Absolutely amazing, Marjorie!

Class of 2010: Levi Martin was born April 1, 2017, to Mr. and Mrs. Chris Martin.

Well, that does it for this round of updates.

I wish you all the best till we see each other again!

Mizpah, Cody

2011

Allen McCown

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2011.

2012

Bruce Howard

Brother Rats, I hope this edition of the Review finds you and your families well.

Bruce Leuthold is in Afghanistan and is expecting his first child to be born this December.

Bruce also informed me that Gordon Ellison is a company commander and is also currently deployed in the Middle East; however, he is in Kuwait. Safe wishes to you both, and congratulations, Bruce – can’t wait to see pictures of the newest addition of the family. Alex Mason is in New York City as a captain for the airlines and is also an ALPA safety representative for the event review committee. Alex continues to be a flight instructor on the side and is the cofounder of a nonprofit flight training company.

After speaking with Alex, it sounds like he is having a lot of success in the airline industry

155

Class Notes

2013

John Wilson

Charles Jones

Class of 2012: A group of brother rats.

Class of 2012: Richard and Jenna Luck at their wedding. and it’s great to hear about the nonprofit he is involved with. Keep up the great work!

Bradley Chamberlain and wife Kandi are expecting their second child in December. Their oldest, Eleanor, celebrated her second birthday in May, and they are now awaiting the birth of their son around Christmas. I look forward to hearing from Bradley about the name they agree upon for their son; from what he’s told me, that has been a fun topic of discussion in their household.

Congratulations to Richard Luck and his wife, Jenna. The happy couple was married in Richmond this past summer June 23. My wife and I had the privilege of attending their wedding, along with several other BRs, so it was great being able to share that special day with them. I wish the both of you a long and happy marriage!

I also wanted to say congratulations to David Yost. He has recently taken over as the head wrestling coach at Benedictine, a high school in Richmond. Best of luck and can’t wait to see the future success with that program.

I apologize for any updates I may have missed. Thank you to everyone who send in information and I look forward to hearing from you all before the next edition. Take care and until next time!

In the bonds, Bruce

156

Brother Rats, For those of you who weren’t able to make it to the reunion, we missed you! I hope everyone that made it had a good time. It’s crazy to think that it’s been over five years since we graduated, and I’m sure the next five years will fly by. I hope to see everyone at our 10th Reunion. For those who attended, please send me an email if you have any feedback that’ll help us plan the next reunion or if you’d like to volunteer.

I recently got an update from Sean Rogers. He mentioned that he got back from Afghanistan in May and ran into Will Baker a few times in Bagram. Sean recently got engaged to Erin Tobin.

Last August on a Skype meeting with John Dommert, I was surprised to see Sean Noll and Dustin Shelley in the background. It turns out all three of them are stationed together in Monterey.

Patrick Simon sent in a few updates, as well.

He is currently living in Alexandria, Virginia, and earned his Master of Arts degree in military history from Norwich in June 2017. He has transferred to the Individual Ready Reserve and was accepted in June 2018 to Georgetown University’s Master of Arts in history program.

If you have updates you’d like included in the Alumni Review, please feel free to shoot me an

Class of 2013: Justin Dalton, John Wilson, Ted Harrison, Pat Leet, Ryan Hillman, Hunter Colt, Bill Rogers ’86, Sean Rogers, Jackson Sain, Neal Rogers ’82, Nick Weishaar ’10, Donnie Martin and Brent Shull at Sean Rogers’ welcome home/engagement party following a deployment to Afghanistan.

Class of 2013: At Andrew Eckroade’s wedding were, from left, Greg Olson, Fritz Dawson, Matt Dudek, Don Mays, Calvin Makfinsky ’16, Andrew Eckroade, Nick Gelles ’12, Rhyne Seward, Mel Eckroade, Ashley Gernhardt and Colin Roberts ’12.

Class of 2013: Patrick Simon and his wife, Melany, on their wedding day in September 2017. email! I’ll be submitting the next round of notes Nov. 12, 2018.

2014

Samuel Guidry Taylor Floyd

Brother Rats, Another quarter, another addition of notes. I hope that this addition finds you just as well as the last. There weren’t as many submissions for the notes this time around, but no excuses.

Future POTUS Johnny Partin started a new job at Adansix working as an estimator in their capital engineering department. Partin is also still working to keep Hopewell beautiful; is there anything this guy can’t do?

Dwaine Wintz is working as a software engineer at the National Center for Missing and Exploited

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes children in Virginia.

Nathan Myers successfully completed Marine Corps Officer Candidates School! Congratulations, Lt. Myers, Ooh-rah!

Kyle Reavis moved down to the U.S. Virgin Islands and is working as a project manager. In somewhat related Institute news, I heard that “FTroop” now goes by “Foxtrot.” Kyle, I am not sure if there is anything you can do about that, but I feel like something needs to be done. Mattingly, if is Kyle is too busy, do the class a favor and take care of that.

Ben Smith finally got married; congratulations!

Juan Adams is in the UFC now; maybe we can organize some sort of fight between “The Kraken” and Charis Chillers for the 5th Reunion entertainment. Charis, have your people contact my people, and we will work out the details; I think we could be talking Mayweather numbers.

Thomas Pierpoint graduated. I know that will come as a shock to some readers, especially Col. Levenson ’80. It feels just like yesterday that he was wandering second stoop going room to room, lowering GPAs and doing who knows what in the third stoop bathroom.

Thomas Bradshaw questioned if there is any point in sending in submissions for the Alumni Review. I am not sure if I failed to include his last few submissions or if Monsanto and the deep state had them censored. If his updates about living in Hawaii and Monsanto’s globalist plans for world domination don’t make it into the next edition then I guess we know the truth.

I don’t know if any of the Old Corps will relate, but sometimes I feel like I am just going through social media and putting digital into print, but I suppose that’s better than the usual message: “Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes from the Class of 2014.”

P.S. Where in the world is William Ross?

2015

Henry Meredith Johnny McDonald

Brother Rats, Looks like the old John McDonald has roped

2018-Issue 4

me into helping with class notes again. Let’s hope we don’t make this a habit. That being said, there’s a lot to hit, so let’s jump right in!

One of the things Johnny was most excited to share with you guys is that after 18 months of working in China, and before returning to America, Will Claytor, with his friend and guide, summited Lobuche Peak at 20,078 feet in the Khumbu Valley, Himalaya Mountain Range, Nepal. Will is excited to be back home in America now, and we’re sure he’s already planning his next adventure.

For the second year, Team Keydet Ventures (Chap Michie, Alex Lin, Greg Hempt and Rickey Siewers) participated in the New York City D10 Decathlon. The NYC D10 Decathlon is a competitive athletic event for amateur athletes that tests athleticism in 10 events: 400-meter run, football throw, pullups, 40-yard dash, broad jump, 500-meter row, vertical jump, 20yard shuttle sprint, bench press and 800-meter run. Since 2009, the decathlon has raised more than $10 million in total contributions, which are used to produce a profound impact on pediatric cancer research.

Last year, Team Keydet Ventures raised more $13,000 and placed 11th overall in the team event. This year, they raised $20,000 and placed ninth overall. This brings their total contributions to more than $33,000. What a huge accomplishment for a great cause. If you want to support Team Keydet Ventures, please reach out to any of the guys.

Love is in the air! Isaac Copes married Maddie Williams Sunday, July 15, in Knoxville, Tennessee. Sam Hunter, Sam Trumps, Frank Hargrove, Henry Meredith, Wes Jacobs and Henry Atwill ’18 were all in attendance. During our free time over the weekend, Trumps, Hunter, Hargrove and I went whitewater rafting, flying in a helicopter and put some lead through an MP5 at Bud’s Gun Shop. Congrats to Isaac and Maddie!

Also, Johnny briefly spoke to our 2015 class adviser, Col. Francis Bush, and got an update on his shenanigans. In retirement, Col. B. serves as accounting department chair at Lynchburg and as president of his fraternity alumni board. He hopes to complete a halfironman soon. He has three adorable grandsons. The best part is he has grown his hair out to roughly 10 inches. Funny what those “regular” colleges will do to a man.

Shane Bohn passed flight school, earned the U.S. Navy’s wings of gold and will be moving to San Diego for about a year, then

Class of 2015: Will Claytor with his friend and guide atop Lobuche Peak in Nepal. will be in Guam for three years. Ching-Hung Tseng did his first flight in the F-16 for the Taiwanese Air Force. Joseph Broughton and Jake Shapher successfully completed the Navy nuclear program. Alex Monson and Jimmy Callahan ’17 are currently deployed on USS Rushmore to the 5th and 7th Fleet.

Rob Miller just finished his deployment in El Salvador. Mitchell White should be graduated from Chaplain Basic Officer Leadership Course at Fort Jackson by the time this is published, and he’ll be an official chaplain not long after.

Katheryne Ruck, Nick Platamone, Mark Collie, Hannah Dickinson Hornsby and Harper Niver are all choosing medical specialties and will soon be applying to residency. Wow! Elise Reed bought a martial arts school in Hillsborough, New Jersey. Personally, I’m super excited about this. I want to say I recall Elise telling me about this ambition – that she wanted to run a martial arts school.

Huge congrats to her for setting such a big goal and slaying it.

Mike Shannon is currently working on a book, and it’s going through final edits right now.

T.J. Lighton and Brittney Matthews are both in Lexington working in Moody Hall for the Alumni Association. Brittney is running the career networking efforts on the Alumni Association side of things, and T.J. works with all of the alumni chapters any time they are looking to get together for events and helps to oversee alumni support of admissions. If anyone has questions about the VMIAA, they’re there to help.

And lastly, Jarid “J Dub” Watson made a comment in the Facebook group about thinking he’s sick at Mario Kart. Not sure what that’s about.

Love y’all, Henry

157

Class Notes

2016

Jacob Norris

2017

Benjamin Stewart

Patrick Hine Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2017.

BRs, Kicking off the notes this time around with a few congratulations. Evan Thompson was married May 19, 2018, to Kassandra, and they are happy to inform everyone that their second child is due in February 2019. Best of luck to Evan, Kassandra and Savannah.

Brandon Fleming had an article published in a military police journal about employment of military working dogs in a Korea-type conflict.

He shares the credit with his platoon, members of asymmetric warfare and 5th Group for the article.

Dylan Davis recently returned home from Germany continuing to fulfill the role of distribution platoon leader at Fort Hood. He hasn’t flown since flight school but motivation is strong, as he is now an expert at refueling.

As always, thank you all for the submissions.

If you need anything at all, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Class of 2016: Evan and Paige Thompson were married May 19, 2018.

158

2018

Carlee Anderson

Class of 2018, I hope this note finds you all doing well! Although it has only been three months since we walked across the stage, members of our class have made some big moves!

Weddings: Andrew Stockmal and Samantha Shepherd said their vows three days after graduation in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The Stockmals both commissioned in the Army May 15.

Andrew branched armor and Sam branched medical service corps.

Alexandra Hill married Aaron Gibbs ’16 in Nashville, Tennessee, May 26.

Jonathan Collings married his longtime girlfriend, Rachel Westbrook, June 2 in Tennessee.

Tyler DeJoe married Samantha (Tarr) July 21. The DeJoes moved to Pensacola, Florida, on Aug. 22, where Tyler began his training as a combat systems officer in the Air Force.

Andrew Heinlein married his wife, Catherine, Aug. 11 in Front Royal, Virginia.

Brittany Woychak married Patrick Finn ’15 April 7 at House Mountain Inn. Rah! Commissions: Bailey Mahoney “finally” graduated OCS and commissioned in the Marine Corps July 7. Travis Korhorn also commissioned into the Marine Corps.

Tom Nofi, Brandon Barbery and Travis Arnold commissioned into the Army.

Bryce Tucker and Christian Williams commissioned into the Air Force.

Academics: Laura Dean was awarded a post-baccalaureate IRTA/CRTA (intramural research training award) position at the National Institute of Health. This is a big accomplishment, considering this program has a 24 percent acceptance rate. Laura will be moving

to Bethesda, Maryland, in a couple of months.

Luca Melendez is attending graduate school at George Washington University pursuing a Master of Public Health degree in epidemiology.

Michael Hulcher finally did his job and earned his alumni status this summer. Proud of you, buddy!

Careers: Devin Zappolo recently moved to Norfolk, Virginia, where he currently works as a nuclear engineer at Newport News Shipbuilding.

Abdias Girardi is currently working for General Motors Corp. in Detroit, Michigan. Abdias is working on some awesome projects dealing with the chemical makeup of auto parts.

He also joined the autocross racing team that allows him to not only work on Camaros, Corvettes and Cadillac ATSs, but also race them, as well – really cool stuff!

Matthew Esnardo, Cole Taggart and Eric Arneson are yet again serving the Institute.

Matthew is working in the Center for Leadership and Ethics, Eric is working in the commandant’s office and Cole is still managing all emergency situations. Proud of you guys, too!

Three months out, and the members of ’18 are taking full advantage of their freedom.

Keep me updated on your life events. Reach out at any time, and I’ll be sure to include you in the upcoming Review!

Class of 2018: Brandon Barbery, Eric Byrd and C.D. Marechal ’62 got together for a skeet shoot.

Class of 2018: Samantha Shepherd married Andrew Stockmal May 19, 2018, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Pictured were, from left, front row, Robert Dowling, Andrew, Samantha and Ian Horkan. Back row: Robert Woolfolk and Chance Dickson.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Baby Keydets FYE – a son, Henry Carl, to Kristen Kucera and Jason Fye ’98, June 14, 2018.

WARD – a son, John Warner, to Jennifer and Elijah Ward ’01, May 17, 2018.

Degrees D. Scott Gines ’83 Doctor of Education in Leadership University of St. Thomas April 4, 2017

Ed.D.

SCHALLER – a daughter, Diana Bernal, to Katherine and Billy Schaller ’03, Aug. 11, 2018.

MITCHELL – a daughter, Everleigh Grace, to Arlene-Raquel and Matthew Mitchell ’08, July 23, 2018.

Marriages STOCKMAL – Samantha Shepherd ’18 to Andrew Stockmal ’18, May 19, 2018.

THOMPSON – Kassandra Vogt to Evan Thompson ’16, May 19, 2018.

GIBBS – Alexandra Hill ’18 to Aaron Gibbs ’16, May 26, 2018.

COLLINGS – Rachel Westbrook to Jonathan Collings ’18, June 2, 2018.

DEJOE – Samantha Tarr to Tyler DeJoe ’18, July 21, 2018.

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

Gunyon M. Harrison ’43

2018-Issue 4

Aug. 16, 1919

March 6, 1921

159

Provisional Appointments APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

2023

APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

2030 (cont.)

John C. Barker

Curtis Barker ’93

Father

Donald W. Calder III

Donald W. Calder Jr. ’88

Father

Summer L. Hoage

Eric L. Duncan ’99

Step-father

2031

Cody Hodge

Marc Mueller ’93

Uncle

Jay V. Bushman

Charles Walsh

Christopher Walsh ’03

Father

John Bushman ’97

Father

Jeff Bushman ’02

Uncle

William H. Gentry III ’03

Father

William H. Gentry II ’71

Grandfather

Patrick Gonzales ’03

Father

Peter J. Gonzales Jr. ’51

Great-uncle

2024 Mark Applin Jacob Swardz

David Applin ’75

Father

2032

Paul Applin ’48B

Grandfather

Luke H. Gentry

Jacob A. Wood ’12

Uncle

2025 Lilian H. Duncan

2033 Eric L. Duncan ’99

Father

Xander Gonzales

2026 Richard C. Coupland III ’91

Uncle

2034

Richard C. Coupland ’915

Great-grandfather

James V. Corrado

Jonathan K. Corrado ’05

Father

Richard C. Coupland Jr. ’50B

Grandfather

Emma R. Duncan

Eric L. Duncan ’99

Father

William R. Coupland ’55

Great-uncle

Samuel Walsh

Christopher Walsh ’03

Father

William C. Coupland Jr. ’57

Great-uncle

Andrew Holmes

Jason Maslow ’00

Uncle

2035

Sydney Swardz

Jacob A. Wood ’12

Uncle

Bentley G. Corrado

Jonathan K. Corrado ’05

Father

Mason Tillar

David Tillar ’95

Father

Allison P. Gentry

William H. Gentry III ’03

Father

Taylor Mawyer ’01

Uncle

William H. Gentry II ’71

Grandfather

Rick Brother ’68

Great-uncle

Robert P. Brown Jr. ’70

Grandfather

James B. Preston ’867

Great-uncle

Robert P. Brown ’932

Great-grandfather

Theodore A. Klein ’927

Great-great-uncle

Robert P. Brown Jr. ’70

Grandfather

Carter Coupland

John R. Huesdash

2028 Jordan C. Brill

Clara S. Huesdash

Carmine C. Inteso Jr. ’88

Uncle

Robert P. Brown ’932

Great-grandfather

Carmine J. Inteso ’63

Great-uncle

Theodore A. Klein ’927

Great-great-uncle

Racheal Toman McElligott ’10

Mother

Casey McElligott ’11

Father

Benjamin Curle ’08

Father

Howard A. Curle Jr. ’76

Grandfather

Robert P. Brown Jr. ’70

Grandfather

Robert P. Brown ’932

Great-grandfather

Theodore A. Klein ’927

Great-great-uncle

Stephen Orr ’74

Grandfather

Andrew P. Calvo ’08

Uncle

Thomas VanBenschoten ’91

Cousin

Benjamin Curle ’08

Father

Howard A. Curle Jr. ’76

Grandfather

Michael Inteso ’90

Uncle

Elijah W. Carmichael

Kenneth Carmichael ’01

Father

Elijah Felty

Danny W. Felty ’94

Father

Grace M. Lanman

John R. Odom III ’66

Grandfather

2036

Katie B. Odum

Keith R. Sawyer ’83

Cousin

Ada Curle

Davis Walsh

Christopher Walsh ’03

Father

Kaylinn McElligott

Hunter J. Huesdash 2029 Erika R. Duncan

Eric L. Duncan ’99

Father Skyla Orr

2030 Jonathan Coupland

160

Richard C. Coupland III ’91

Uncle

2037

Richard C. Coupland ’915

Great-grandfather

Dylan T. Calvo

Richard C. Coupland Jr. ’50B

Grandfather

William R. Coupland ’55

Great-uncle

William C. Coupland Jr. ’57

Great-uncle

Rachel Curle

VMI Alumni Review

Provisional Appointments APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

2040 (cont.)

2037 (cont.)

Patrick Gonzales ’03

Father

Reese R. Burchett

Kyle Burchett ’08

Father

Peter J. Gonzales Jr. ’51

Great-uncle

Amelia M. Calvo

Andrew P. Calvo ’08

Uncle

Alexis J. Lamendola

Jason M. Lamendola ’02

Father

Thomas VanBenschoten ’91

Cousin

Lana B. Williams

Matt Williams ’07

Father

Charles Catlett Jr. ’07

Father

Carter Catlett ’42

Great-grandfather

Donnie White ’65

Cousin Great-uncle

Scarlett Gonzales

Colten L. Catlett

2038 Andrew W. Aiken

Richard B. Littleton Jr. ’71

Grandfather

Aurora J.W. Calvo

Andrew P. Calvo ’08

Father

Carter Catlett Jr. ’66

Thomas VanBenschoten ’91

Cousin

Charles Catlett ’69

Grandfather

William H. Gentry III ’03

Father

Mike Blankenship ’95

Cousin

William H. Gentry II ’71

Grandfather

Jonathan Catlett ’98

Cousin

Bree Guiterman ’04

Mother

Mike Andriliunas ’01

Uncle

Ray Stevens ’64

Cousin

Rory Chisholm ’11

Father

Nate L. Adams II ’45

Great-great-uncle

Andy Adldoost ’09

Cousin

Hawes N. Adams ’43

Great-great-uncle

Henry C. Fye

Jason Fye ’98

Father

Isaac F. Adams ’901

Great-great-

Aubree M. Hines

Douglas W. Hines ’76

Uncle

Kenna R. Hines

Douglas W. Hines ’76

Grandfather

Declan A. Huesdash

Robert P. Brown Jr. ’70

Grandfather

Robert P. Brown ’932

Great-grandfather

Theodore A. Klein ’927

Great-great-uncle

Bruce W. Jones ’74

Grandfather Great-great-uncle

Grant E. Gentry Nora J. Guiterman

grandfather Isaac H. Adams Jr. ’881

Great-great-greatgrandfather

Shannon McElligott Forrest P. Ruppert Carter Simpson

Edward Sossi

Racheal Toman McElligott ’10

Mother

Casey McElligott ’11

Father

Sean Ruppert ’08

Father

Goodwin Chisholm

Ella Jones

Daniel Simpson ’08

Father

John J. Curley ’937

Bradley Simpson ’09

Uncle

John G. Balch ’68

Great-uncle

Edgar Knowling ’65

Great-uncle

Robert Sagnette ’68

Great-uncle

Mark Sossi ’84

Father

Robert Balch ’70

Great-uncle

Luke Sossi ’86

Uncle

Peter A. Lawless ’12

Father

Matthew Sossi ’88

Uncle

James L. Conrad ’78

Great-uncle

Edwin C. Lawless ’81

Grandfather

Edwin B. Lawless III ’55

Great-grandfather

Drew Leonard ’12

Father

Wyatt P. Lawless

2039 Leo Baber

David Baber ’02

Father

James Patton ’49B

Great-grandfather

Steve Patton ’85

Great-uncle

Brett Leonard ’10

Uncle

Brian Shotto ’89

Great-uncle

Troy A. Leonard

Declan J.N. Board

Lakin Board ’04

Father

Emily F. Dean

Francis J. Rosenthal III ’82

Grandfather

Ronald A. Montgomery

Anthony Montgomery ’02

Father

Clark T. Dudley ’06

Father

Clara Orr

Stephen Orr ’74

Grandfather

Reid M. Dudley ’71

Grandfather

James T. Parrino IV

James T. Parrino III ’96

Father

Drew Murphy ’03

Uncle

John K.B. Phillips

Robert E. Phillips ’87

Grandfather

M. Edward Murphy ’72

Grandfather

Kharis I. Saunders

H. Larry Mays Jr. ’73

Grandfather

John Pace ’77

Grandfather

George R. Simrak

Jon Simrak ’03

Father

Thomas Pace ’11

Uncle

Thomas A. Walters

Peter Walters ’73

Grandfather

William L.C. Perry ’07

Father

John A. Walters ’66

Great-uncle

Luke A. Dudley Alexis Murphy Noah G. Neilson Eleanor L. Perry

Thomas A. Rademacher ’83

Great-uncle

John W. Ward

Elijah Ward ’01

Father

Elizabeth R. Williams

Larry R. Williams ’82

Grandfather

2040 Christofer K. Bornefeld

2018-Issue 4

Herman A. Bornefeld ’903

Great-greatgrandfather

161

Taps James C. Sherman ’35 James Christian Sherman ’35 of Southern Pines, North Carolina, died April 21, 2018.

He was 104.

Sherman matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his daughter, Elizabeth J. Whittington Sherman; son, Ian Parkinson Sherman (Ruth); grandson, Robin Sherman (Jill); and children of his second wife, Ron (Stephanie), Gregg (Debbie) and Rick.

Sherman was preceded in death by his first wife, Betty Whittington Sherman; second wife, Peggy Warren; brother, Robert M. Sherman Jr.; and sister, Elizabeth Sherman Cole.

and spent less than one year at VMI. He is survived by his children, Wayne, Steve and Jo, and their spouses, Helen, Janet and Mike; grandchildren, Ajax, Erin, Jubilee, John, Maggie, Eva, Claire and Lili; great-grandchildren, Alima, Zakariya, Dylan, Tristan, Otis and Bobby; great-great-grandchild, Willow; sister, Patricia Schools; and sisters-in-law, Barbara Hulme, Susan Cissel and Pat Hulme.

Watkins was preceded in death by his first wife, Nora Lea Hulme Watkins; second wife, Myrtle Hurlburt; infant daughter; brother, Bill Watkins; and sister, Eleanor Lewis.

William S. Morgan Jr. ’49B

Fred William Love ’42, M.D., of Delray Beach, Florida, died June 1, 2018. He was 96.

Love matriculated from Delray Beach and spent two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Doctor of Medicine degree from Vanderbilt University.

Love is survived by his children, Betty Lee Nolan (Pat), Mary Jo Hanor (Steve), Barbara Jones (Jamie) and Fred Warren Love; eight grandchildren; and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Doris Mullan Love.

William Stuart Morgan Jr. ’49B of Salt Lake City, Utah, died May 16, 2018. He was 90.

Morgan matriculated from Millington, New Jersey, and spent one year at VMI. He is survived by his brother, Donald J. Morgan (Nanette); children, Scot S. Morgan (Susan), Linda Leigh Morgan-Yatzor (Barry) and Victoria Eileen Taft (Rodney); grandchildren, Jared Morgan (Jessica), Amber Milne (Kenny), Aaron Morgan (Patty), Jeremiah Morgan (Amber), Anna Yatzor, Morgan Yatzor (Gladys), Joseph Taft, Ann Morgan and Joseph Morgan; great-grandchildren, Peter Morgan, Oliver Morgan and Bowen Morgan; and former wives, Edith M. Morgan, Sharon Vail and Ruth Ann Magin.

David J. Halpin ’48B

Walter G. Wolfe ’49B

David John Halpin ’48B of Sarasota, Florida, died July 4, 2018. He was 91.

Halpin matriculated from Toledo, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Halpin is survived by his sons, Mark Halpin and Dean Schwartz; daughters, Megan Halpin, Mandy Miller, Kristi McKenna and Kim Schwartz; grandchildren, Tiffany Morales, Laura Garcia, Salome Garcia, Sean Halpin, Trevor Halpin, Lauren McKenna, Jillian McKenna, Cooper Schwartz and Elizabeth Schwartz; and great-grandchild, Mia Morales.

He was preceded in death by his son, Jim Halpin.

Retired U.S. Army Col. Walter George Wolfe ’49B of Stafford, Virginia, died July 9, 2018. He was 89.

Wolfe matriculated from Bradenton, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a master’s degree from New York University.

Wolfe is survived by his children, Frances, John, Jim, Robert and Tom; son-in-law, Tom Michaels; daughters-in-law, Kathy, Andrea, Charlotte and Namratha; grandchildren, Lisa Delvecchio (Robert), Robert Michaels, Adam (Lena), Daniel (Johanna), David (Alexis) and Robin; and brother, Jim. He was preceded in death by his wife, Jean Alderman Wolfe.

Fred W. Love ’42

Shirley C. Watkins Jr. ’48B Shirley Clyde Watkins Jr. ’48B of Little Rock, Arkansas, died June 2, 2018. He was 91.

Watkins matriculated from Windsor, Virginia,

162

Sydnor L. Stealey Jr. ’50A Sydnor Lorenzo Stealey Jr. ’50A, D.M.D., of Fairbanks, Alaska, died April 24, 2018. He was 92.

Stealey matriculated from Louisville, Kentucky, and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor

of Science degree from Wake Forest University and a Doctor of Dental Medicine degree from the University of Louisville.

He is survived by his second wife, Beverly Prince; daughters, Katherine Bouta, Jessica Kelsch and Laura Stealey; and grandchildren, Timothy Bouta, Alexandrea Therese, Hannah Bouta, David Kelsch, Kate Kelsch, Connor Zingarelli and Gregor Zingarelli.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Louise Stealey.

Lee J. Chegin ’50B Lee Joseph Chegin ’50B of San Antonio, Texas, died July 12, 2018. He was 89.

Chegin matriculated from Donora, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Ohio State University.

He is survived by his wife, Betty Chegin; children, Catherine Carleton (William), John Chegin (Maureen) and Tom Chegin (Lisa); grandchildren, Matthew Hamilton (Brandi), Luke Hamilton (Amber), Chelsea Chegin (Mark), Clinton Chegin, Jack Chegin and Cade Chegin; and great-granddaughter, Dylan.

He was preceded in death by his brothers, Tom Chegin and George Chegin.

Alexander J. Mitchell ’50B Alexander Joseph Mitchell ’50B of Fredericksburg, Virginia, died July 4, 2018. He was 89.

Mitchell matriculated from Brooklyn, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in pre-medical from VMI. He attended Basel University in Switzerland and the University of Bologna in Italy.

He is survived by his wife, Nancy; children, Matthew (Lindsay), Aaron, Stephanie, Andre (Carina), Michael and Ivan (Toby); and eight grandchildren.

Claud E. Eley Jr. ’51 Claud Erambert Eley Jr. ’51 of St. Louis, Missouri, died May 23, 2018. He was 89.

Eley matriculated from Suffolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Diana Grossman Eley; children, Dorothy Prentiss Nottebahm (Thomas), Claud Eley (Beth) and Kevin Peek Eley (Sue); seven grandchildren; 10 greatgrandchildren; and step-children, Robert Lee Officer and Kimberly Elisabeth Officer.

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Langdon C. Sheffield ’51

died May 17, 2018. He was 86.

Hanna matriculated from Richmond, Virginia. He was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He earned a Master of Science degree from Rice University.

He is survived by his wife, Gayle; children, Jeff (Amy), Mark, David and Danielle; and six grandchildren.

Langdon Cheves Sheffield ’51 of Americus, Georgia, died July 18, 2018. He was 87.

Sheffield matriculated from Americus and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He also attended the Air Force Institute of Technology.

He is survived by his wife, Kathy Freeman Sheffield; children, James Langdon Sheffield (Trish), Langdon Cheves “Pete” Sheffield Jr., Emily Sheffield Hollingsworth (Lee), Becky Bankston Steenbergen (Gordon) and Mitzi Leigh Parker (Travis); grandchildren, Lauren Powell Kraemer (Travis), David Graves Powell, John Clayton Hollingsworth, Katherine Collins Hollingsworth, Langdon Sheffield Hollingsworth, Lilly Margaret Bacon, Elijah Garrett Bacon, Cooper Allen Parker, Margaret Eleanor Steenbergen and Camille Grace Steenbergen; and great-granddaughter, Audrey Louise Kraemer.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Florence Collins Sheffield, and brother, John West Sheffield Jr.

Ray Madison Hart ’52 of MacClenny, Florida, died March 8, 2018. He was 87.

Hart matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his sons, Ray Jr. (Traci) and Philip (Amber); grandchildren, Michael, Jessica (Shaun), Cam, Brianna, Alex and Cooper; great-grandchildren, Laden, Christina, Lily and Kaydence; and siblings, Edith, Julian, Margaret, Nancy and Tom. He was preceded in death by his wife, Violet, and son, Jeffrey.

Keith E. Durbin ’52

William O. Minter Jr. ’52

U.S. Army Lt. Col. Keith Edward Durbin ’52 of Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania, died June 24, 2018. He was 89.

Durbin matriculated from Brockway, Pennsylvania, and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania.

He is survived by his wife, Belva Welty Durbin; son, David Durbin (Karen); daughter, Kimberly Rowles (Vernon); and grandchildren, Eric Durbin (Stacy), Geoffrey Durbin (Catherine), Renee Durbin, Kara Tepel (James) and Ian Rowles (Taylor).

Robley L. Gerdetz ’52 Robley Louis “Red” Gerdetz ’52 of Austin, Texas, died June 15, 2018. He was 87.

Gerdetz matriculated from Bluefield, West Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his children, Karen Valentine (Patrick), Rob Gerdetz and Donna Scott; and grandchildren, Katie Valentine, Ben Smith ’14, Stacy Smith, Maggie Valentine, Lauren Gerdetz and Kyle Gerdetz.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Marvin Gerdetz.

Jeff Hanna Jr. ’52 Jeff Hanna Jr. ’52 of Puyallup, Washington,

2018-Issue 4

Ray M. Hart ’52

William Obediah “Bill” Minter Jr. ’52 of Chester, New Jersey, died May 12, 2018. He was 90.

Minter matriculated from West Hartford, Connecticut, and spent less than one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Trinity College.

He is survived by his wife, Jeri; daughter, Gayeann Minter-Larson (Donald); son, Scott Minter (Susan); step-children, Shannon Leckie (James) and Robert Lender (Kelly); grandchildren, Taylor Larson, Tanner Larson, Jace Leckie, Ryder Leckie and Nick Sinopoli; and sister, Mary Lee Goode.

James Don Lamanna and Sophia Maria Lamanna; and brother, Joseph Lamanna.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Larry Lamanna.

Frederick M. Barrett III ’55 Frederick Mitchell Barrett III ’55 of Smithfield, Virginia, died July 15, 2018. He was 86.

Barrett matriculated from Smithfield, Virginia, and spent more than one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Helen Griffin West Barrett; children, Beth Ouelette (Jim), L. Kurt Barrett, Sidney Barrett, Luann W. Scott and Wendy Williams; grandchildren, Lindsey Gonzales (Pablo), Lee Ouelette, Elizabeth Scott-Francis (Adam), Van Williams (Sarah), Griffin Williams (Kayla), Eddie Nurney, Lauren West Babb (John) and W. Ryan West (Ashley); and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his son, Mitchell Barrett; daughter, Patty Williams; son-in-law, Everette Scott; and sister, Anne B. Martin.

Alfred T. Jacques ’55 Alfred Thomas Jacques ’55 of Summerfield, North Carolina, died July 6, 2018. He was 86.

Jacques matriculated from Lawrence, Massachusetts, and spent less than two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Northeastern University.

He is survived by his daughters, Pamela Herbert (Glenn), Leslie Jacques-Capon (Stuart) and Sandra Fox (Greg); grandchildren, Melissa and Greg Herbert; and sister, Doris Jacques.

He was preceded in death by two brothers and two sisters.

James W. Morris III ’55

James Watson “Jimmy” Morris III ’55 of Richmond, Virginia, died June 9, 2018. He Donald J. Lamanna ’54 was 85.

Donald John Lamanna ’54 of ArMorris matriculated from Richlington Heights, Illinois, died May mond and spent less than two years 3, 2018. He was 85. at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Lamanna matriculated from RichLaws degree from the University of mond Hill, New York, and earned a Richmond.

Bachelor of Science in civil engineerMorris is survived by his son, James ing from VMI. Watson Morris IV; granddaughters, He is survived by his wife, Janet; Jane Mallory O’Connor and Kathsons, James Lamanna (Chrissy), erine McQuillan O’Connor; brother, Gregory Lamanna (Dawn) and AnBrowder Morris; and sisters, drew Lamanna (Paulina); grandson, Morris ’55 Philip Frederica Ann Gunn and Stella Derek Lamanna (Paulina), Elijah Lamanna, Joshua Lamanna, Malachi Laman- Morris Loftin.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Jane na and A.J. Lamanna; great-grandchildren,

163

Taps Mallory Morris, and daughter, Carolyn Morris O’Connor.

Dooley matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a James A. Openshaw Jr. ’55 Master of Science degree from the James Arnold “Jim” Openshaw Jr. Georgia Institute of Technology. ’55 of Edinburgh, Indiana, died July He is survived by his wife, Nancy 28, 2018. He was 84.

Wheeler Dooley; daughter, Nina Openshaw matriculated from SouthDooley McLean (Dickson); sons, ampton, Massachusetts. He was a Robert Thomas “Bob” Dooley III distinguished graduate of VMI and earned a Bachelor of Science degree Dooley ’56 (Anne) and David Sander Dooley (Susan); grandchildren, Nancy Lee in civil engineering.

Openshaw is survived by his wife, Pamela and Rebecca McLean, Anne Howard, CathOpenshaw; first wife, Barbara Falge Open- erine, Elizabeth, Helen, Caroline and Laura shaw; sisters, Judy Findeisen and Dorothy Dooley; and sister, Phyliss Dooley Butts.

Naylor; sons, James A. Openshaw III ’80, David B. Openshaw ’81 and Mark F. Openshaw; Sylvan D. Montagna II ’56 daughter, Ann O. DeLawder; 14 grandchilSylvan David “Skip” Montagna ’56 of dren; and one great-granddaughter.

Cocoa Beach, Florida, died April 28, 2018.

He was 83.

Montagna matriculated from Cecil, PennJames W. Robertson ’55 James Walker Robertson ’55 of Williams- sylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Science burg, Virginia, died June 23, 2018. He was 84. degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Robertson matriculated from Lynchburg, the Florida Institute of Technology.

Virginia. A distinguished graduate of VMI, He is survived by his wife, Gail; children, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Scott D. Montagna (Renee’), Paul Montagna chemistry.

(Luda) and Tracey Warns (Greg); grandchilHe is survived by his wife, Carolyn; children, James Craig and Carol Elizabeth Robertson; dren, Chyanne Montagna, Elijah Montagna daughter-in-law, Lisa Zenni; and grandchil- and Rhyse Warns. dren, Drew, Wyn, Camille and Alegra.

He was preceded in death by his son, Scott Thomas M. Stowitts ’56 Robertson, and sisters, Martha Ann Shepherd Thomas Michael Stowitts ’56 of Weldon, and Betsy Jean Towe.

North Carolina, died July 19, 2018. He was 84.

Stowitts matriculated from Orange, VirJohn W. Wainwright Jr. ’55 Retired U.S. Air Force Col. John William ginia, and spent less than one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughWainwright Jr. ’55 of Fredericksburg, Virters, Linda Weeks (Charles) and Perri Anderginia, died May 4, 2018.

Wainwright matriculated from Poquoson, son (Kevin); and grandchildren, Tyler AnderVirginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science son, Garrett Anderson and Nicole Weeks. degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Ellen; sons, John Sidney R. Perry III ’57 W. Wainwright III ’82 (Colleen) and Doug B. Sidney Rawson “Sid” Perry III ’57 of Wainwright ’83 (Jennifer); grandsons, 2nd Lt. Pensacola, Florida, died May 18, 2018. He John W. Wainwright IV ’16, Jackson Wain- was 83. wright and Cadet Nicholas J. Wainwright ’20; Perry matriculated from Sarasota, Florida, granddaughters, Ashley Wainwright and Amy and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in hisChafin; and great-grandchildren, Madison tory from VMI. and William.

He is survived by his wife, Madge M. Perry; He was preceded in death by his brother, children, Sidney R. Perry IV (Marie), Gregory Michael, and sister, Carol Cole.

Jacobs (Josephine), Teresa Freeman (Tom) and Michele Lee Jacobs; grandchildren, Ashley Roman (Jonathon), Luke Perry and Robert T. Dooley Jr. ’56 Robert Thomas Dooley Jr. ’56 of Charlotte, Lindsay Perry; great-grandchildren, LawNorth Carolina, died May 9, 2018. He was 83. son and Greyson; brother, Allen G. Perry

164

(Glenda); and sisters, Jeanne League (Bob) and Joanne Anthony.

He was preceded in death by his son, Adrian Lee Jacobs.

Claude W. Roberts III ’58 Claude Wesley “Wes” Roberts III ’58 of Palmetto Bay, Florida, died April 29, 2018.

He was 82.

Roberts matriculated from Coral Gables, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Dr. Annemarie Roberts; children, John Wesley Roberts (Tammy), David Wayne Roberts (Diane) and Cheryl Roberts Bemis (Andrew); and grandchildren, Stephanie Roberts Matson, Alex Madison Roberts, Michael Bemis, Blake Bemis and Cameron Bemis.

Earl H. Talley ’58 Earl Hugh Talley ’58 of Arab, Alabama, died June 3, 2018. He was 82.

Talley 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, Joan M. Talley; sons, Perry Talley and Earl Talley Jr.; daughter, Tonya Moran (Brian); grandchildren, Nathan, Hannah and Aidan Talley; sisters, Grace T. Simpkins and Bonnie T. Reames (Russell); and brother, Donald Talley (Joan).

Robert E. Aylor ’60 Robert Earl “Bob” 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.

Charles W. Belshee ’60 Charles William Belshee ’60 of Bensalem, Pennsylvania, died June 9, 2017. He was 79.

Belshee matriculated from Salisbury, North Carolina, and spent less than five months at VMI. He is survived by his siblings, Reese Bowen Belshee Jr., James Edward Belshee and Judithe Ann Belanger (Danny).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Faye (Rodgers) Belshee.

John R. Bushey Jr. ’60 John Raymond Bushey Jr. ’60 of Forest,

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Virginia, died Dec. 28, 2018. He was 75.

Bushey matriculated from Luray, Virginia, and spent two years at VMI. He is survived by his daughters, Julia Raye Bushey Rodgers (Charles) and Lisa Renee Bushey; granddaughter, Morgan Maria Rodgers; grandson, John Garrett Dawson; and brother, Ronald Eppard Bushey.

Bushey was preceded in death by his wife, Cynthia Spitler Bushey.

Robert M. Davis Jr. ’60 Robert Marshall Davis Jr. ’60 of Charlottesville, Virginia, died June 1, 2018. He was 80.

Davis matriculated from Charlottesville and spent two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Saint Andrews Presbyterian College, a Master of Education degree from the University of Virginia and a Doctor of Education degree from East Tennessee State University.

Davis is survived by his daughters, Catherine Davis and Karen Davis Cunningham; son, Bruce Davis; grandsons, Paul Cunningham III and Alexander Davis; sister, Rosa Lee Breeden (Jim); sister-in-law, Elaine Buck; and brother-in-law, Edward Garth (LeeAnn).

Chris S. Koumparakis ’60 Chris Speros Koumparakis ’60 of Martinsville, Virginia, died Sept. 28, 2015. He was 79.

Koumparakis matriculated from Martinsville and spent more than one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Jannie Batayis Koumparakis; son, Lt. Col. Speros Chris Koumparakis (Bree); daughters, Maria Koumparakis Fenteress (Kevin), Elaine Koumparakis Botbol and Edie Chris Koumparakis; grandson, Mason Botbol; granddaughters, McKenzie Botbol and Helen Fentress; sisters, Elaine Moss, Krysa Szabo (Edward), Demetria Costas (Gus) and Phylliscity Oliff (John); and brothers, John and George Koumparakis.

He was preceded in death by his brother, John Speros Koumparakis, and sister, Eoanna Koumparakis Casey.

Hugh K. Leary ’60 Hugh Kirkpatrick Leary ’60 of Richmond, Virginia, died Aug. 20, 2016. He was 78.

Leary matriculated from Richmond and spent more than one month at VMI. He is survived by his children, Katie Leary Sebastian (Jim), Mary Hugh Hill (Sam), Chip Larkin (Kay) and McKenzie Larkin (Amy); grandchildren, Dillon Sebastian, Cole

2018-Issue 4

Sebastian, Carlos Flores-Aragon, Claudio Hill, Lydia Hill, Leanne Larkin, Lucy Larkin, Kenzie Larkin and Charlie Larkin; and siblings, Dick Leary (Betty), David Leary and Molly Rabb.

He was preceded in death by his wives, Nancy Robertson Leary and Leanne McKenzie Leary.

William T. Leary ’60 William Thomas Leary ’60 of Hampton, Virginia, died June 20, 2018. He was 80.

Leary matriculated from Portsmouth, Virginia, and spent more than one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Angela Lee Leary; daughter, Catherine Estep (Bill); granddaughters, Katie Shaw (Justin), Leigh Clevenger (Martin Dandridge Jr.) and Jordan Estep; and sister, Mary L. Butler.

land, Melinda and Marvin Rose, and David and Ruth Price; brother, John Copeland; 16 grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren.

Copeland was preceded in death by his wife, Arlene Copeland; and sister, Jean Copeland Kelly.

Peter D. Tattersall ’62 Peter Dorsch Tattersall ’62 of New Orleans, Louisiana, died May 21, 2018. He was 77.

Tattersall matriculated from Staunton, Virginia, and spent two years at VMI. He is survived by his sister, Shane Tattersall; former wife, Janell Beattie Tattersall; daughter, Nolan Grant (Chip Grant); sons, Peter Tattersall Jr. and Thomas Tattersall; and six grandchildren.

Tattersall was preceded in death by his sisters, Kay Stefee and Dr. Mary O’Brian.

John H. Thomas ’60

Graham L. Gross ’63

John Haddon Thomas ’60 of Glade Hill, Virginia, died March 28, 2018. He was 79.

Thomas matriculated from Redwood, Virginia, and spent less than three months at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Ronda Dudley Thomas; daughter, Gwendolyn Hill (Charles); son, Bruce Thomas; grandson, Chase Hill; and sister, Mary Belle Hart (Robert).

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Doris Nolen Thomas, and son, John Thomas Jr.

Graham Leslie Gross ’63 of Fort Collins, Colorado, died Feb. 7, 2015. He was 72.

Gross matriculated from Fort Clayton in the former Panama Canal Zone. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Judith Gross; daughter, Rosa Martey (Nii); and grandchild, Rowan Martey.

Larry M. Cook ’61 Larry Milfred Cook ’61 of Springfield, Virginia, died July 12, 2018. He was 79.

Cook matriculated from Hampton, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his brothers, Ronald M. Cook and Lemuel S. Cook.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Etha A. Cook.

Robert L. Copeland Jr. ’61 Robert Leigh “Bob” Copeland Jr. ’61 of Maumelle, Arkansas, died June 25, 2018.

He was 79.

Copeland matriculated from Norfolk County, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He is survived by his children, Leigh Ann and Jack Conklin, Robin Copeland, Todd and Cindy Copeland, Bryan and Lorena Cope-

Robert O. Modarelli Jr. ’63 Robert Orestes “Bob” Modarelli Jr. ’63, M.D., of Tacoma, Washington, died June 7, 2017. He was 76.

Modarelli matriculated from Union City, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from New Jersey State College.

He is survived by his wife, Anne; children, Michael, Lisa, Robert III, Jennifer, Catherine, Mark, Jessica and Matthew ’96; grandchildren, Robert IV, Julia, Anthony, Cooper, Joseph, Claudia, Ryan, Emma, Ethan, Josie, Evelyn, River, Sage, William, Stone, Hope, Emily, Carmen, Charlotte and Andrew; and sister, Meg. He was preceded in death by his sister, Andrea.

Thomas F. Steigelman II ’63 Thomas Fredrick Steigelman II ’63 of Newport News, Virginia, died June 22, 2018.

He was 77.

Steigelman matriculated from Newport

165

Taps News, Virginia, and attended VMI for three years.

He is survived by his son, Trey (Judy); grandson, Turner; brother, Joe (Helen); and brotherin-law, Tom Seaborn (Shirley).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Mary Ann.

R. Kevin MacCarthy Jr. ’64 Roger Kevin MacCarthy Jr. ’64, J.D, of Mineral Bluff, Georgia, died July 26, 2018.

He was 75.

MacCarthy matriculated from Scarsdale, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from the College of William & Mary.

MacCarthy is survived by his wife, Deborah MacCarthy; sons, Brian MacCarthy and Matthew MacCarthy (Kristen); sister, Carole Kentala (Pritamo); brother, Steven MacCarthy (Margaret); and mother-in-law, Ann Burrell Kennedy (Don).

Graham W. McMillan ’64 Graham William McMillan ’64 of Little Rock, Arkansas, died June 20, 2007. He was 65.

McMillan matriculated from Montclair, New Jersey, and spent less than two years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Leslie Ann; sons, Brian (Robin) and Greg (Madeline); grandsons, Alex and Andrew; mother, Mary McMillan; mother-in-law, Nadine Capron; and brothers, Robert (Peggy) and Richard (Ellen).

Joshua C. West IV ’64 Joshua Cottingham West IV ’64 of Suffolk, Virginia, died May 2, 2018. He was 75.

West matriculated from Suffolk and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Old Dominion University.

West is survived by his wife, Barbara L. West; daughter, Tara W. Allen (Kerry); son, Joshua C. West V (Katie); grandchildren, Sarah and Cooper; sister, Ginger W. Owen (Bill); and mother-in-law, Ethel Lewis.

John M.B. Baillio ’65 John Millard Butler Baillio ’65 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died May 8, 2018. He was 76.

Baillio matriculated from Virginia Beach, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Nancy Black Baillio; daughters, Catherine Werner (James) and Anne Standing (Jay); grandchildren, Briggs

166

and Butler Standing and Julia and Anne Werner; brother, Robert Higgins Baillio Jr. ’59 (Anne); and sisters, Margaret Baillio Simpkins (William) and Helen Baillio Howcott.

Robert G. Whirl ’65 Robert Gary Whirl ’65 of Glassport, Pennsylvania, died May 5, 2018. He was 75.

Whirl matriculated from Glassport and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University and a Master of Divinity degree from Nashotah House Episcopal Seminary.

He is survived by his daughters, Michelle Carrillo (Thomas) and Tracy Whirl, and grandchildren, Katherine and William.

Lester C. Martin ’68 Lester Colter “Les” Martin ’68 of Hanover, Pennsylvania, died June 21, 2018. He was 72.

Martin matriculated from Annandale, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Patricia L. (Cookson) Martin; sons, T.J. Martin and Adam W. Martin (Courtney); and grandchildren, Payton and Jaxon.

He was preceded in death by his son, Lance C. Martin, and brother, William M. Martin III.

Peter H. Jones ’69 Peter Howze Jones ’69 of Vinton, Virginia, died May 11, 2015. He was 67.

Jones matriculated from Wyncote, Pennsylvania, and spent one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Betsy; children, Melissa Jones (Howard Schur), Elliot Jones (Marin Lorenson); Katrina Choi (Sam Choi), Katya Jones and Olga Jones; seven grandchildren; and siblings, Chris Jones (Carol), Debbie Roush (Michael) and Judy Wolf (Winston).

Gerald L. Waterman Jr. ’70 Gerald Leroy Waterman Jr. ’70 of Tallahassee, Florida, died March 23, 2018. He was 69.

Waterman matriculated from New York, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

Paul G. Dunn ’72 Paul George Dunn ’72 of Webster, Massachusetts, died June 23, 2018. He was 67.

Dunn matriculated from Flushing, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree

in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Susan D. (Bakst) Dunn; daughters, Lauren R. Dunn and Marissa A. Lynch (Brandon); brothers, Stephen Dunn and Rev. Michael Dunn; sister, Mary Koenig; and grandchildren, Alexandra Perini and Emilia Lynch.

Gregory M. Griffith ’72 Gregory Mark Griffith ’72 of Wilmington, North Carolina, died June 29, 2018. He was 69.

Griffith matriculated from Aurora, Ohio, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Emily Ware Griffith; sons, Edward Arthur Griffith ’08 (Bridgette Jordan) and James Gerard Griffith ’10; grandson, Carter Hendrie Griffith; brother, Philip Gerard Griffith; and brother-in-law, Edward Nichols Ware.

Gerald H. Mathews ’73 Gerald Hughes Mathews ’73 of Rio Vista, California, died June 9, 2018. He was 66.

Mathews matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and spent three years at VMI. He is survived by his son, Geoffrey N. Matthews, and sister, Martha M. Hutzler.

Christopher R. Hawkins ’75 Christopher Robert Hawkins ’75 of Salvador, Brazil, died July 2, 2018. He was 64.

Hawkins matriculated from Wyckoff, New Jersey, and spent less than one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Betty Couto Melo; father, Robert; sisters, Jessie Oliveira and Jennifer Hawkins; and sisters-in-law, Maria de Lourdes, Maria Ignez and Maria Stella.

Samuel P. Pace ’79 Samuel Pendleton Pace ’79 of Chesterfield, Virginia, died July 12, 2018. He was 61.

Pace matriculated from Orange, Virginia.

A distinguished graduate of VMI, he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering.

He is survived by his wife, Marion Powell Pace; sons, Samuel Pendleton Pace Jr. ’11 and Watson Powell Pace; mother, Althea Higginbotham Pace; brother, Sidney Robert Pace II (Teri); sister, Beth Pace Johnson (Jeff); father- and mother-in-law, Dr. and Mrs. Watson Odean Powell Jr.; and brothers-in-law, Watson Odean Powell III (Jane) and William Edward Powell (Carol).

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Terry L. Hall ’80 Terry Lee Hall ’80 of Belleview, Florida, died Feb. 11, 2017. He was 58.

Hall matriculated from Dallastown, Pennsylvania. A distinguished graduate of VMI, Hall earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering.

James J. Waller ’81 James John Waller ’81 of Waynesboro, Virginia, died June 27, 2018. He was 59.

Waller matriculated from Huntington Station, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. Waller is survived by his wife, Carolyn McKay Waller; children, Anna, Sara and Gryphon Waller; brother, Bill Waller (Carol); and sister, Jane Pagano.

Kevin J. Sample ’84 Kevin Joseph Sample ’84 of Acworth, Georgia, died June 21, 2018. He was 56.

Sample matriculated from Fincastle, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI.

James B. Soden ’85 James Bryan Soden ’85 of Warrenton, Virginia, died Jan. 22, 2014.

Soden matriculated from Silver Spring, Maryland, and spent more than one year at VMI. He is survived by his siblings, J.P. Soden (Patricia) and Kathi Eanes (Kent).

William F. Matt ’86 William Frederick Matt ’86 of Milton, Delaware, died July 9, 2018. He was 54.

Matt matriculated from Wilmington, Delaware, and spent more than two years at VMI. He earned Bachelor of Arts degree from Wilmington College.

He is survived by his parents, William and Anna Matt; sons, Christopher (Aleisha) and Nicholas (Jessica); granddaughter, Brooklyn; and brothers, Daniel (Angela) and Brian (Julia).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Kirstie M. Matt; and son, William Noah Matt.

Smith matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and spent less than one month at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Amalia L. Smith.

Charles A. Weening ’90 Charles Andrew Weening ’90 of Bayonne, New Jersey, died July 5, 2018. He was 51.

Weening matriculated from Bayonne and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Chris Ann; children, Catherine, Charles, Christian and Connor; mother, Harriet Lee Weening; and sisters, Ruth Rodriguez and Elizabeth Weening.

He was preceded in death by his father, Charles Arnold Weening.

Robert J. Oaks ’05 Robert James Oaks ’05 of Lindon, Utah, died July 31, 2018. He was 38.

Oaks matriculated from Provo, Utah, and spent more than three years at VMI. He is survived by his siblings, Clinton R. Oaks, Amber K. Oaks, Tiffany L. Oaks, Christian C. Oaks and Rebecca J. Oaks; and grandmother, Barbara N. Crawley.

Zachary G. Rhoades ’11 Zachary Glynn Rhoades ’11 of Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, died May 29, 2018. He was 29.

Rhoades spent less than two years at VMI. He is survived by his mother, Victoria (Lear) Rhoades; father, Jeffrey Rhoades; step-mother, Mary Kay Rhoades; siblings, Christopher Rhoades (Kristen), Jonathan Rhoades (Kaity) and Sarah-Anne Rhoades; grandmother, Mary L. Rager; and step-sisters, Amanda Kinsey (Tim) and Crista Pollarine (A.J.).

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Shirley Ann Campbell and Donald Phillip Lear, Robert Glenn and Helen Irene Rhoades, and Joseph W. Rager.

VMI Family

Rudolph L. Smith Jr. ’87

Catherine D. Anderson

Rudolph Louis “Randy” Smith Jr. ’87 of Union, New Jersey, died July 23, 2015. He was 52.

Catherine Duncan Anderson of Lexington, Virginia, died June 28, 2018. She was 92.

Anderson, a nurse, worked in the VMI

2018-Issue 4

infirmary from 1979 until her retirement in 1987. Following her retirement, she filled in on a part-time basis until 1993.

She is survived by her sister, Mable D. Easton.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Frank N. Anderson.

Maj. David K. Baxter Maj. David K. Baxter of Athens, West Virginia, died May 29, 2018. He was 71.

Baxter previously taught mathematics at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Deborah G. Baxter; children, Dr. Brian and Kacey Baxter, Kelly and Jeff Eastin, David Joseph Cantrell and DeeAnn Farris, and Sgt. Samuel and Kelly Cantrell; and grandchildren, Andrew, Matthew, Calli, Betsy, Skyler, Joshua, Kathleen, Raegan and Danny.

Baxter was preceded in death by his sister, Victoria Fowler.

Gen. Ronald H. Griffith Retired U.S.Army Gen. Ronald H. Griffith of Arlington, Virginia, died July 18, 2018. He was 82.

Griffith served on the VMI Board of Visitors from 2004-12.

(Editor’s Note: An extended obituary for Gen. Griffith appears in the In Memory section of this issue.)

Col. Charles D. Morgan Col. Charles David “Chuck” Morgan of Sykesville, Maryland, died July 21, 2018. He was 83.

Morgan served as a professor in and chair of VMI’s mechanical engineering department.

He is survived by his wife, Carolyn; sons, Gary Morgan ’81 (Rhonda), John Morgan (Cheryl) and Andrew Morgan (Jill); and grandchildren, Liepha, Whitney, Olivia and Grace.

Morgan was preceded in death by his son, Charles David Morgan Jr.

Halford Ryan Halford Ryan of Lexington, Virginia, died May 15, 2018. He was 75.

Ryan previously taught at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl; daughter, Shawn (Carsten Scharlemann); and grandchildren, Cara and Eric.

167

After Taps James R. Porterfield Jr. ’65

by Jeff Wilkins ’65 James R. “Moon” Porterfield ’65 has been gone a while now, but his memory and legacy live on. This story is one of many worth sharing.

Moon was diminutive. Standing 5 feet 8 inches tall and weighing in at 140 pounds on a good day, he was made for and typical of Company D. His unassuming nature and gentle demeanor had earned him many friends in barracks, all of whom would attest that “Moon would never hurt a fly.”

It was a cool autumn Thursday in 1964. Eleven-hundred Keydets were in full-dress parade down the streets of Roanoke en route to Victory Stadium as thousands of onlookers lined the route. It was indeed a gratifying spectacle to watch the entire VMI Corps march to the site of the annual Thanksgiving Day football game with VPI. The VMI contingent was in stark contrast to the Tech Corps, which had previously passed with its typically unimpressive and lackluster performance. At

that time, few could imagine that such a day filled with such rivalry and tradition would be short-lived.

As the sergeant, 2nd Platoon, Company D, Moon was marching at the head of the right column. Suddenly, a man sprang from the crowd on the right and rushed into the street reaching for a hat from the rear of the 1st Platoon. Moon smartly strode forward and landed a perfectly timed right cross to the left side of this idiot’s head, who immediately crumpled and lay whimpering in the gutter as the remainder of the Corps filed by. One can imagine his deep regret for coveting a souvenir.

That was one hard-fought game some 54 years ago. Our Big Red team gave the Hokies all they could handle that day, and we piled up some impressive yardage and dominated time of possession, despite falling short 35 to 14. Even in defeat, the Institute was heard from in more ways than one.

Maurice B. Johnston Jr. ’58

by J. Bolling Williamson ’60

Maurice B. “Duke” Johnston Jr. ’58, known to alumni as the quarterback of the 1957 undefeated football team, died Feb. 14, 2018. He had a 25-year distinguished flying career in the Air Force, followed by another distinguished career in the aviation industry. Duke was the first U.S. Air Force Tactical Air Command pilot to fly the new F-16 fighter and, together with two other pilots, flew the plane to 39 air shows (including the famous Paris Air Show) in nine European countries.

He retired as a colonel, and his personal decorations include the Legion of Merit (three awards), the Distinguished Service Cross, the Meritorious Service Medal (two awards) and 14 Air Medals. His service included four tours in Vietnam.

Upon his retirement from the Air Force, he worked for General Dynamics and Lockheed Martin as a senior manager and director, where he applied his knowledge and experience as a fighter pilot to create a program that fundamentally changed the approach to cockpit design.

168

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News John T. Poffenbarger ’57 and wife Susan were recognized by the West Virginia State University Foundation at the annual Black & Gold Gala April 6, 2018. The dual-purpose black tie event recognizes donor generosity while serving as a fundraiser to support education programs and scholarships at WVSU. Poffenbarger has practiced law in Charleston, West Virginia, for more than 50 years and is nationally recognized in his field. He has served the state of West Virginia as a senator and as general counsel for the state’s department of administration. He currently serves on the WVSU Foundation board of directors. The Poffenbargers are trustees of the Helen Wood Poffenbarger and Perry S. Poffenbarger Foundation, which has made scholarship grants to Charleston-area institutions.

Poffenbarger matriculated from Dunbar, West Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Laws degree from West Virginia State University College of Law. John D. Anthony ’62, Ph.D., was recognized for his public service record in strengthening U.S. and Arab relations at the fifth annual Ramadan iftar celebration held by the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman in Washington, D.C., May 24, 2018. Anthony was recognized for his contributions as an educator and for his public diplomacy toward the Middle East, the Islamic world and Arab countries. Anthony has been working in this area for five decades, educating both U.S. civilian and defense leaders about Oman’s regional and global role. He also worked educating young people in the area of strengthening and expanding U.S.-Arab relationships.

Anthony is the founding president and chief executive officer of the National Council on U.S.-Arab Relations.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Georgetown University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Johns Hopkins University.

For the 11th consecutive year, W.C. Anderson III ’69, M.D., was named to the Texas Super Doctors Hall of Fame. He was selected by his peers as an outstanding practicing doctor in Texas. The results of an extensive nomination and research process will be published in a special section of the December 2018 Texas Monthly magazine, called Texas Super Doctors. Anderson practices with his son, John

2018-Issue 4

Anderson, M.D., in New Braunfels, Texas.

He matriculated from South Boston, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Virginia.

D. Scott Gines ’83, Ed.D., became the director of athletics at Delaware State University in July 2018. DSU, a 125-year-old land grant institution, is an NCAA Division I member of the Mid-Eastern Athletics Conference. Gines left Texas A&M University-Kingsville as vice president for intercollegiate athletics and campus recreation after spending nearly 11 years at TAMUK. In 2007, Gines began working at TAMUK as director of athletics, became vice president for institutional advancement in 2009 and took on his last role at the institution in January 2013. During Gines’ last six years at TAMUK, Javelina athletics had 28 NCAA postseason appearances, four Lone Star Conference championships, eight national top 10 finishes, two team national championships, 25 NCAA Division II individual national champions and one national runner-up, and appeared in the Division II College World Series, among other achievements. Through Gines’ leadership, TAMUK increased annual operational revenues, ranked nationally in average per game attendance and was awarded

the honor of hosting the 2019 and 2020 NCAA Division II men’s and women’s outdoor track and field national championships.

Gines matriculated from Spring Arbor, Michigan, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. He earned a Master of Education degree in sport psychology from the University of Virginia.

Neville A. Anderson ’84 was selected as a Brooks 2017 Inspiring Coach of the Year.

The Brooks company, which manufactures running shoes and apparel while promoting running and fitness, selects two cross-country and two track coaches annually for the honor.

Anderson, who was born in Jamaica, motivates his students with stories of his childhood in the Caribbean. He has coached track and cross-country at Athens Academy in Athens, Georgia, for 13 years. This is Anderson’s third year as head track and field coach.

Under Anderson’s coaching, both teams and individual athletes have competed at the state level, including earning the state track title for the girls’ team in 2016 and 2017. He also serves in the academy’s development office.

Anderson matriculated from Washington, D.C., and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from VMI and a Master of Business Administration degree from Pepperdine University.

The Brooks company, which manufactures running shoes and gear, selected Neville A. Anderson ’84 as a Brooks 2017 Inspiring Coach of the Year. Anderson coaches track and cross-country at Athens Academy in Athens, Georgia.

169

Alumni News brigadier general. Ring previously served as the Virginia National Guard Chief of Staff.

He matriculated from Mollusk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. Ring earned a master’s degree from the U.S. Army War College and a Master of Advanced Studies and a Master of Military Art and Science degree from the Command and General Staff College.

Christopher G. Caplice ’84, Ph.D., third from left, and Eva Ponce were presented with the Irwin Sizer Award for the Most Significant Improvement to Massachusetts Institute of Technology Education at the 2018 MIT Awards Convocation May 10, 2018. Photo by Christine Adams, MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics.

Christopher G. Caplice ’84, Ph.D., along with his team, was presented with the Irwin Sizer Award for the Most Significant Improvement to Massachusetts Institute of Technology Education at the 2018 MIT Awards Convocation May 10, 2018. The award honors significant innovations and improvements to education by an individual or group across the institute. Caplice also received the MITx Prize for Teaching and Learning in Massive Open Online Courses, a recognition given to educators worldwide who better engage learners in digital classrooms; and the MIT Teaching with Digital Technology Award, a student-nominated recognition for teachers who improve technology to improve teaching and better facilitate learning at MIT. Caplice is the director of the MITx MicroMasters Program in supply chain management and executive director of the MIT Center for Transportation and Logistics.

He matriculated from West Simsbury, Connecticut, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering. He also earned a Master of Science degree from the University of Texas and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

170

Col. James W. Ring ’88 was named Virginia National Guard Director of the Joint Staff in a May 1, 2018, announcement by Maj. Gen. Timothy P. Williams, adjutant general of Virginia. Ring was selected for promotion to

Gregory M. Andricos ’92, collaborating with fellow alumni Nicholas J. Roper ’82, Jerry T. Whitlock ’02 and Kendal R. Walus ’85, completed a $42 million project to widen and rehabilitate the Dulles Toll Road in Tysons Corner, Virginia, in May 2018. In a tightlyconstrained environment, the innovative team designed and constructed solutions to provide safe mobility for both pedestrians and bicyclists while also improving traffic flow for vehicles.

Andricos is the design build project manager for Wagman Heavy Civil, Roper is the Virginia Department of Transportation’s assistant district administrator for northern Virginia, Whitlock is Wagman’s deputy design build project manager and Walus is the VDOT state structures and bridge engineer. All four earned Bachelor of Science degrees in civil engineering from VMI and hold professional engineer licenses.

Gregory M. Andricos ’92 collaborated with fellow alumni and civil engineers Nicholas J. Roper ’82, Jerry T. Whitlock ’02 and Kendal R. Walus ’85 to complete a multimillion-dollar road project in Tysons Corner, Virginia, in May 2018.

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ...

To Know with Certainty by G. Lee Southard ’59, Ph.D. Westbow Press, 2017.

ISBN: 9781512786330. Available via www. toknowwithcertainty.com, Amazon and the publisher.

At a time when young people are dropping from the Christian faith in record numbers, “To Know With Certainty” addresses key questions and doubts that have been cited as reasons for this exodus. The book provides a strong intellectual basis for faith and ties it to the spiritual basis. The result is that one can confidently defend and contend for the faith whenever required under any setting. Southard gave his life to Christ at the age of 10. For years, he has been researching and developing narratives on how the evidences from the sciences and history converge with the truth of the Bible. He believes that a better intellectual understanding of the evidences is critical to better appreciating the sovereignty of God. As a result, students and adults alike will be better able to defend and contend for their faith.

About the Author: G. Lee Southard matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He also has a Master of Science degree from George Washington University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His career consisted of 40 years in the research and development of pharmaceuticals and biotechnology products, including the positions of board chairman, chief executive officer and chief science officer. He has more than 40 publications and patents and contributed to the development of 10 therapeutic products. In a dual career, he was an artillery, chemical and military intelligence officer. He retired with the rank of colonel. With his wife of 51 years, Marilyn, he had four sons and six grandchildren. After Marilyn’s death, he married Nancy, and they reside in Fort Myers, Florida.

Legacy by Preston Holtry ’63.

Moonshine Cove Publishing, 2017.

ISBN: 9781945181344. Available

2018-Issue 4

via Amazon and www.moonshinecovepublishing.com.

In the year 136 C.E. at the fort called Banna, one of 14 forts on Hadrian’s Wall, Marcus Arrius begins the slow process of turning around a dispirited and ineffective Tungrian Cohort stationed there. His efforts are made more challenging, and dangerous, by the hatred of Matius Betto, the centurion he replaced as commander.

It does not take long for Betto and Tribune Tiberius Quinterius to combine efforts to discredit Arrius. In time, Arrius gains the respect and loyalty of the officers and legionaries at Banna, with the exception of a few disgruntled officers who remain committed to Betto. His malaise caused by the brutality of the Judean war dissipates as his relationship with Ilya deepens when she becomes pregnant with his child. However, it is Ilya who becomes the unwitting means for Quinterius and Betto to accomplish their objective when her heritage to Beldorach, High Chieftan of the Selgovae, is revealed.

About the Author: Preston Holtry graduated from VMI with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and has a graduate degree from Boston University. After a 27-year career in the U.S. Army, he retired with the rank of colonel. He served twice in Vietnam in addition to other infantry and intelligence-related assignments in the U.S., Germany and England. He is the author of six other published mystery and historical novels. Volume 3 of the Arrius Trilogy, “Enemy of Rome,” is scheduled for release January 2019.

The Millennial’s Guide to Success and Employment by Alan H. Moore ’69.

CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2018. ISBN: 9781984186515.

Available via Amazon.

According to Moore in “The Millennial’s Guide to Success and Employment,” millennials, the first generation to be raised on cell phones, are socially connected and overpraised by their parents to point of being unable to

deal with failure and hardship like generations before. They don’t trust government, institutions or brands, but they trust their Facebook “friends” and experiences posted on the web.

Life, however, is too important to only live in the moment; it takes knowledge and skill to navigate the options available to young people looking for success today. This book explores those options and forges a path between millennials and employers utilizing the author’s experience.

About the Author: Alan Moore has served as chief financial officer and chief operating officer in various companies for 35 years and has interviewed more than 1,000 job applicants during his career – many of them millennials. He is currently a partner and chief operating officer of Slavic Integrated Administration, Inc., which administrates and manages over 5,000 company 401(k) plans with assets of $4 billion. He is also a CPA and holds a master’s degree in business economics from the University of California at Santa Barbara.

Moore matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and attended VMI for two years.

St. Paul the Apostle: The Right Man at the Right Time by Irving L. Brittle Jr. ’72.

IUniverse Press, 2017. ISBN: 97853202987 (sc), 2988-2 (hc), -2986 (e). Available via IUniverse Press and Amazon.

Next to Jesus Christ, St. Paul the apostle is the most influential and prolific author, theologian and missionary in the New Testament.

His personality and life have been compared to a multifaceted diamond concerning matters of doctrinal importance.

This book encompasses many of the pertinent factors that shaped Paul’s life from a zealot Pharisee to his conversion on the Damascus road to a passionate evangelist.

The information was researched from more than 100 sources – many of whom have studied the life of Paul for decades.

171

Alumni News About the Author: Brittle is committed to researching the life of St. Paul and is continuing his research with a two-year Bible course concentrated on the study and translation of the early Bible. He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI and a Master of Business Administration degree from Averett College.

The Civil War Missouri Compendium by Joseph W. “Whit” McCoskrie Jr. ’74 and Brian Warren. 2018. ISBN: 9781625858450. Available via www.arcadiapublishing.net, Amazon and Barnes and Noble.

During the Civil War, only Virginia and Tennessee saw more action than Missouri. Ulysses S. Grant first proved his ability there.

Sterling Price, a former governor of Missouri, sided with the Confederacy, raised an army and led it in battle all over the state. Notorious guerilla warriors “Bloody” Bill Anderson and William Quantrill terrorized communities and confounded Union military commanders. McCoskrie and Warren provide a chronological overview of more than 300 of the documented engagements that took place within Missouri’s borders, furnishing photos, maps, biographical sketches and military tactics.

About the Author: McCoskrie matriculated from Kansas City, Missouri. A distinguished graduate of VMI, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics. McCoskrie served 28 years in both the active and reserve U.S. Army as an infantry officer. Always an avid military historian, it turned into a passion when he learned about his ancestor’s involvement with William Quantrell during the Lawrence (Kansas) Massacre. A keen passion for understanding all facets of the conflict soon followed. After retiring from the military and the banking industry, McCoskrie worked for the University of Missouri and Illinois State University Army ROTC programs as an instructor in military history and leadership.

A majority of his time is now spent traveling and exploring historical sites in the United States and abroad. He is a volunteer tour guide for the National Churchill Museum in Fulton, Missouri.

Management Matters by Tim Parker ’75,

Ph.D. 2016. ISBN: 9781540374264. Available via Amazon.

The book title, “Management Matters,” has a double meaning. First, it points out the fact that good management really matters to success.

Nothing really happens without the effort of people, so the management and leadership of them are critical – “people management” matters greatly. Second, there are particular matters of management that every manager or leader needs to know. The field of management and leadership developed over the past 100 years to a point where it’s difficult to focus on the important points that matter. This book addresses many of the topics that matter for managers.

The information in this book is for people new to managing or those who have been doing the job with little to no formal training. This book gives new or untrained managers a place to start. The discipline of management is not easy or simple; it’s complex and difficult because the manager has to deal with people – particularly their behavior – in an ever-changing work environment.

About the Author: Parker matriculated from Jacksonville, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science in Business Administration from Boston University and a Doctor of Business Administration degree from Northcentral University.

Parker is a management consultant and public speaker living in Raleigh, North Carolina. His practical experience extends over several decades in the public and private sectors.

He served in the U.S. Air Force, in leadership roles with state government and in private industry. Parker currently teaches business classes at a local college and is president of Parker Resources Management, LLC. To find out more, visit www.

ParkerResourceManagement.com.

Coulon de Villiers: An Elite Military Family

of New France by Amédée E. Gosselin, et al.; translated, compiled and edited with a preface, commentary and notes by Samuel L. Russell ’88. Russell Martial Research, June 2018. ISBN: 978-1546388463. Available via CreateSpace, Amazon and the publisher at info@RussellMartialResearch.com.

Lord of Verchères, destroyer of the Renards, victor at Les Mines, vanquisher of Col. Noble, victor at Fort Necessity and vanquisher of George Washington: These are among the formal and informal titles bestowed by peers and historians upon the officers Coulon de Villiers – a father and his six sons.

All were killed, wounded or died of disease in the service of their king. Despite their renown, the accomplishments of these seven men have been overlooked, ignored, misunderstood or misconstrued by historians for more than two-and-a-half centuries. Gosselin, Pierre-Georges Roy and Aegidius Fauteux mined Canadian archives to distinguish father from son and brother from brother. Their collective work is essential to understanding this fascinating and historically significant family. Russell presents for the first time an English translation of their compiled works.

About the Author: Russell is a retired U.S. Army colonel with more than 29 years of active service. He matriculated from Fort Sam Houston, Texas, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. Russell earned a Master of Military Art and Science degree in history from the U.S. Command and General Staff College and a Master of Strategic Studies from the U.S. Army War College.

He deployed to Cuba, Qutar, Pakistan, Kuwait and Iraq in support of military operations. Russell is currently assigned to the U.S. Army Peacekeeping and Stability Operations Institute at Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania.

He is also the author of “Sting of the Bee: A Day-by-Day Account of Wounded Knee and the Sioux Outbreak of 1890-1891 as Recorded in the Omaha Bee.”

... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ...

172

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 4

Gerald J. Acuff Jr. ’71 jacuff@deltapoint.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@gmail.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

173

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

richard.coupland@cox.net rawlingaj@gmail.com kenny@mpowermortgage.com Bradley.maak@yahoo.com brian.k.andrew@gmail.com

Christoph Lohr ’08 Stephen A. Breheny ’89 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. Washbish ’09 Daniel C. Young ’88 Brian D. Skusa ’00 David C. Hagemann ’80 Jeffrey D. Vordermark ’79 J. Brent Schaufert ’15 J. Micah North ’00 David P. Loduca ’81 Ronald G. Hull ’02

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

174

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@marchassociates.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.washbish@gmail.com dan.young@wfadvisors.com bskusa@prolinkstaff.com dhag80@aol.com vordermark@juno.com brent.schaufert@yahoo.com micah.north@resonantsciences.com loduca@pbworld.com ron@ronaldhull.com

Director: Patrick J. Griffin ’80

Region III – Northeast New England New York City – Long Island North Jersey

Chapter Representative

Richard C. Coupland III ’91 Alexander J. Rawling ’07 Kenny T. Stigler ’00 Bradley J. Maak ’87 Brian K. Andrew ’03

Region II – Midwest Bluegrass Chicago Cleveland Detroit Kansas City, Missouri Minnesota Southwest Ohio St. Louis Wisconsin

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: anchors1980@gmail.com 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 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 David L. Pouleris ’98

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 Dakota W. Nicely ’15 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 dnicely37@gmail.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

Matthew J. Outland ’17 David G. Tyler IV ’86 Joshua P. Priest ’80 Thomas F. Morehouse III ’70 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 kjcallanan@comcast.net jarvistk@vmi.edu cameronseay@me.com

Director: William R. Charlet ’01

Matthew T. Mikula ’04 Samuel L. Mattocks ’74

moutland@comcast.net dtyler4@cox.net joshua.p.priest@navy.mil thomasmorehouse@me.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 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 Kevin J. Callanan ’78 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 Lewis V. Graybill ’62 Don M. Bowers ’90

Email: jminch2011@gmail.com David W. Walsh ’90 Christopher J. Whittaker ’90 Charles S. Sanger ’82 Garry C. Varney ’76 Thomas R. Shaw ’78 M. Douglass Payne ’73

Email: keydet6466@gmail.com

Robert L. Fricke ’78

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 Korea Taiwan Thailand

2018-Issue 4

Michael K. Scaplehorn ’13 Christopher D. Noe ’96 Ching-Pu Chen ’85 Vaipot Srinual ’72

scaplehornmk@mail.vmi.edu noevmi96@hotmail.com chingpu@saturn.yzu.edu.tw

175

Alumni & Post Events Nov. 9

Founders Day Parade

Nov. 9

Institute Society Dinner

Nov. 16 Ring Figure

Dec. 18 December Commissioning Ceremony

Dec. 19

December Commencement

Dec. 19

Christmas Furlough Begins

Nov. 16-26

Jan. 14

Christmas Furlough Ends

Thanksgiving Furlough

Feb. 4

Dec. 12

Last Day of Classes

Career Fair

March 6

Jonathan Daniels Ceremony

To see more alumni events as they are announced, visit: www.vmialumni.org/events

2018 Basketball Schedule *Denotes Home Game

Nov. 6

Dec. 1

Feb. 14

Washington College*

Longwood University

Wofford College*

Nov. 9

Dec. 5

Jan. 17

Feb. 16 Feb. 21

Pittsburgh

Virginia Tech

ETSU

Nov. 11

Dec. 9

Jan. 19

Goucher*

Chattanooga

Nov. 14

Dec. 12

USC Upstate*

Nov. 18

Presbyterian College

Dec. 21

University of Kentucky

North Alabama*

Nov. 20

Dec. 29

Kentucky Christian*

Samford University

Nov. 23

Jan. 5

Western Carolina*

Jan. 24 Mercer University

Wofford Furman ETSU*

Feb. 23

Western Carolina

Jan. 26

Feb. 28

Jan. 31

March 2

The Citadel UNCG

Feb. 7

Mercer*

The Citadel*

March 8-10

Stetson University

UNCG*

Chattanooga*

SoCon Tournament

Nov. 27

Jan. 10

Feb. 9

March 11

American* 176

Jan. 12

Furman University*

Samford*

SoCon Finals VMI Alumni Review