2022-1 VMI Alumni Review

VMI 2022 - Issue 1

Alumni Review

Contents

Virginia Military Institute Alumni Review 2022-Issue 1

In This Issue . . .

This issue includes class notes and news items covering the time period of Aug. 15, 2021, to Nov. 15, 2021.

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In Memory 8

Donald T. White ’65

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Features 9

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Bryan ’69 and Paulette ’69 Receive Distinguished Service Award Founders Day 2021 First Fall Reunion Second Fall Reunion Third Fall Reunion Fourth Fall Reunion

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News and Updates 2

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Message from the VMI Alumni Agencies Chief Executive Officer Our Alumni Serving On Post Athletics Events Progress Staff News Class Notes Provisional Appointments Taps After Taps Alumni News Book Announcements

Volume 98, No. 3

PUBLISHER VMI Alumni Agencies Chief Executive Officer: David Prasnicki Chief Communications Officer: Amy Goetz Editor-in-Chief: Jordan Whitman Associate Editor: Mary Price EDITORIAL SPECIALIST: Molly Rolon

ALUMNI REVIEW ONLINE www.vmialumni.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 Outside Cover: Virginia Military Institute celebrated the 182nd anniversary of the Institute's founding Nov. 11, 2021. Cadet Kasey Meredith ’22, regimental commander, led the Corps during the parade that afternoon.—Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

Inside Front Cover: Rats participated in Rat Olympics Nov. 11 in the Corps Physical Training Facility.—VMI Photo by H. Lockwood McLaughlin, VMI Communications & Marketing.

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Message from the VMI Alumni Agencies Chief Executive Officer David L. Prasnicki

It has been 37 years since I first started my work at VMI; after a short time working for the VMI treasurer in 1985, I was hired by Harry Warner ’57 in 1986 to join the VMI Foundation team—less than a year after I graduated from college.

In those early days, I had no idea I would work for the VMI Alumni Agencies for as long as I have, nor did I realize I would build a life-long career so fulfilled by the people I have met and worked with. I have had the opportunity to learn from many VMI alumni—giants in their time, and some of the most humble and generous people in this country. When individuals such as Elmon T. Gray ’46, Frank G. Louthan Jr. ’41, Bob Patterson ’49C, or Gen. George R.E. Shell ’31 sit down in your office as a young accountant, you learn a lot. I was in awe of their loyalty to their alma mater. Some things never change.

Prasnicki

Yet over 37 years, serving five superintendents, to include Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, I have seen many changes, including the end of Saturday classes (something that created quite a stir when it happened), the end of mandatory commissioning, and the transition to coeducation. Each change had passionate opinions on both sides of the fence.

Through every milestone, every adjustment, one thing has remained consistent: The resilience of VMI, thanks largely to the loyalty of the alumni, parents, family, and friends who step forward each year to support the worthy mission to build leaders of character for our future.

I have had a front row seat as the Institute has transformed physically with older buildings and facilities making way for renovations and new construction—more than $700 million in the last 20 years—thanks to the generosity of state funding and private support.

Throughout my time at VMI, the academic curriculum has been improved and refined as VMI introduced new majors and minors, cutting-edge facilities, new laboratories, innovative academic programs, and the Institute now competes for the very best faculty.

And, while the athletic spirit demonstrated by our cadet-athletes has not diminished in my time, the equipment, training facilities, and competition venues have certainly reached a higher level of excellence.

Of course, the Alumni Agencies has evolved, along with the growing alumni base. We have enhanced our service to the VMI family; embraced new technologies to better communicate with alumni, parents, and friends; and increased our efficiencies to accommodate new platforms for giving and receiving. With the Institute’s cooperation, we also have managed several major fundraising campaigns through which alumni and friends provided the hundreds of millions of dollars in private support that have been critical to the Institute as it moved into the front rank of American higher education.

There has never been a day when I have thought, “What I do isn’t important.” That’s because what VMI does truly matters in the lives of young people and the future of our country. I have seen young people—to include one of my sons, Tyler Prasnicki ’15, a cadet-athlete on the lacrosse team—transformed in four years from somewhat nervous rats into confident young people ready to be honorable and purposeful leaders in their chosen career fields. I also know innumerable alumni who have hit the heights of their professions and yet remain committed to providing selfless service to their communities and our country. I do what I do because I think our country could use more—a lot more—men and women like that.

Let me put it this way: No one I have worked with has ever said—or even hinted—that, when it comes to VMI, good enough is good enough. While their backgrounds and careers have been incredibly diverse, all of them—alumni, friends, coaches, and faculty—have been committed to advancing every aspect of this remarkable institution. Every generation of alumni has believed in the value of the Institute and has stepped forward to support the Institute in its endeavors, no matter how difficult the challenges faced or how tumultuous the times. VMI’s future is bright because it has been and remains faithful to its mission of graduating leaders of character, honor, and resolution. This past year was no different. In our most recent report, our overall dollars raised increased significantly, and the number of donors increased compared to only one year ago. VMI’s future is bright because it has alumni and friends who are faithful to this remarkable institute.

I am humbled by the trust placed in me by the members of the VMI Alumni Agencies Board of Directors to take on the role of chief executive officer.

I am equally confident in our objectives moving forward because I have a great team—a team of talented people who share my passion for the Institute and for the young men and women who choose to attend. Thirty-seven years ago, I did not see this coming, but I am honored to continue my service to the Institute and the VMI Alumni Agencies. I look forward to working with every member of the VMI family.

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VMI Alumni Review

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

The VMI Alumni Agencies would like to pay tribute to our citizen-soliders, who are, as Col. J.T.L. Preston said and as printed on the parapet, “an honor to our country and our state, objects of honest pride to their instructors ... and ready in every time of deepest peril ... .”

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

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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: Alumni Review. We will review your submission and consider it for publication.

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Macpherson ’68 Featured in Reader’s Digest Robert Macpherson ’68 was an active duty U.S. Marine and subsequently spent 20 years in humanitarian work in Somalia, the Bosnian War, Rwanda, Darfur, Haiti, Iraq, and Afghanistan. He suffers from PTSD and received his service dog, Blue, through the Veterans Affairs and Southeastern Guide Dogs. Blue helps Macpherson thrive, rather than just survive. To read more about the relationship between Blue and Macpherson and the programs that brought them together, see Macpherson’s Reader’s Digest article on the magazine’s website.

Eubank ’91 Promoted to Major General Chris Eubank ’91 (center) with his daughter, Emerson (left), and wife, Kim (right), at his promotion to major general in the U.S. Army, Aug. 26, 2021.

Arnold ’92 Serves in Florida Lt. Col. Steve Arnold ’92 serves as the inspector general for the First Air Force at Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Florida.

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VMI Alumni Review

Swanson ’92, Pool ’12, and Pegg ’92 Unite in Iraq

Performing base operating support are (from left) Maj. Matt Swanson ’92, Capt. Brian Pool ’12, and Col. Todd Pegg ’92 of the 329th Regional Support Group of the Virginia National Guard at Al Asad Air Base, Iraq. Not pictured but also deployed is Lt. Col. Corey Stavinoha ’02.

Pitchford ’95 Assumes Command U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard Pitchford ’95 at his assumption of command of the Marine Corps Security Force Regiment in Williamsburg, Virginia. Pitchford (center) is joined by U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Shayne Yenzer (left) and retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Matt St. Clair ’89 (right).

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Alumni Attend National Defense Transportation Association Conference Van Noah ’82, U.S. Army Col. Marc Mueller ’93, U.S. Army Col. Chris Noe ’96, retired U.S. Navy Vice Adm. Andy Brown ’80, and Jason Trubenbach ’99 attending the National Defense Transportation Association Fall Conference in National Harbor, Maryland. Brown serves as the president of the NDTA.

Johnson ’15 Honors Fallen Soldier U.S. Army 1st Lt. Matthew C. Johnson ’15, Sgt. 1st Class Eliot D. Bray, Capt. Jeremiah D. Worker, and 1st Lt. Jill E. Bottarini, explosive ordnance disposal technicians from the 38th Ordnance Company, visit Bonaventure Cemetery in Thunderbolt, Georgia, to honor a fallen EOD technician in September 2021. They placed a flag on the soldier’s gravesite.—U.S. Army photos by Alyssa Johnson.

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VMI Alumni Review

Webster ’21, Lee ’21, and Roberts ’21 Participate in 9/11 Memorial Members of the Class of 2021 visited barracks on 9/11 to participate in the stair climb, an annual memorial activity. Attending are 2nd Lts. Sullivan Webster ’21, Joohyuk Lee ’21, and Devin Roberts ’21.

Hoffman ’22 and Soo ’22 Ranked in Top 10 Nationally for Army ROTC Two VMI Army ROTC cadets are ranked in the top 10 of all Army ROTC cadets in the nation, U.S. Army Cadet Command announced Sept. 27, 2021. Cadet Michael Hoffman ’22 is No. 5 and Cadet Christopher Soo ’22 is No. 7. VMI cadets typically rank highly in national ROTC rankings. In recent years, Alex Hoopes ’19, Luke Phillips ’17, Jason LaCerda ’07, and Kyle Schriefer ’06 were ranked No. 1 in their cohort. Around 5,000 cadets are commissioned through Army ROTC annually.—Photo courtesy VMI Communications & Marketing.

Skaggs ’22 Selected as Surface Warfare Information Professional Officer Cadet Christina Skaggs ’22 is one of approximately five Class of 2022 Naval ROTC cadets in the nation selected to serve as a surface warfare information professional officer.

At press time, the Navy had not yet released numbers of SWO-IP midshipmen chosen, but the selection average is four to six Naval ROTC midshipmen annually. Skaggs is an English major, and cadets selected for SWO-IP are typically majoring in computer science, information systems, electrical computer engineering, or cybersecurity. Skaggs will serve two years as a surface warfare officer following graduation and commissioning. She will then attend IPO School, where she will learn about cybersecurity and how to manage, organize, and maintain confidential and top-secret information and will then be assigned to a service area as an IPO. Skaggs is the NROTC Battalion public affairs officer, Bomb editor-in-chief, 1st Battalion S-7 lieutenant for Corps event planning and morale, and interned with the VMI Alumni Agencies communications team in fall 2020.—Photo by Adrea Thomas.

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Donald T. White ’65

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

upon a series of improvements in its athletic faciliDonald T. White ’65, former coach and athletic ties to include the development of Foster Stadium. director, died Aug. 17, 2021. He was 79.

VMI also received the Big South Sportsmanship Matriculating from Newport News, Virginia, Award for six consecutive years.

White was a stellar athlete in high school, lettering As impressive as his accomplishments were as in seven sports. As a cadet, he continued to excel a coach and an administrator, what stood out in sports. He played football all four years and was to other people about White was his character, the co-captain of the 1964 team. As a baseball especially his ceaseless concern for other people. player, he was as capable as a defensive player as James H. Chapman III ’69, longtime member of he was at the plate. Named to the All-Southern the VMI Keydet Club’s Board of Governors and Conference Team for three straight years for his the organization’s president from 2005-07, recalled, play as a shortstop, he also led the team in batting.

“In all my years of involvement with VMI athletics He would receive the Pres Brown Athletic Cup in and the Keydet Club, I have known few individuals recognition of his athletic prowess, and 10 years who have had such a deep affection for his players, after he graduated, he was inducted into the VMI his coaches, his staff, and the Corps of Cadets. Both Sports Hall of Fame. he and Bettie were always going out of their way to White did not limit his pursuit of excellence to the make all of them feel they were valuable additions playing field, however. A civil engineering major, to the Institute family.” he was a Distinguished Military Graduate and Gregory M. Cavallaro ’84, who was the executive was named to Who’s Who in American Colleges. vice president and later chief operating officer for Commissioned as a second lieutenant in the field the VMI Keydet Club, worked closely with White artillery after graduation, like many of his brother from 2000 until White’s retirement. He remembers rats, White served in Vietnam. During his service, White as “the consummate VMI man. He was a he received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart, and fierce competitor, outstanding coach, consummate five awards of the Air Medal. educator, and true friend to several generations of In 1971, he returned to VMI, taking a job coachVMI cadet-athletes and alumni. But most of all, ing defense for the football team. Applying his he was one of the finest, most likable, and kindest knowledge of the game and his strong leadership White ’65 people I’ve ever known. Together with the colskills, he developed the cadet-athletes he coached laboration of our respective staffs, we raised the annual support for VMI into a formidable defensive unit that was highly ranked not only in the athletics from about $1 million to nearly $3.2 million per year. His affable, Southern Conference but nationally, as well. While he was on staff, the team can-do personality enabled the Keydet Club to thrive and engage so many won two Southern Conference Championships and a state championship. in support of VMI athletics.”

Ten years after he came back to post, White took the helm of the baseball In the Institute’s official announcement of White’s death, Maj. Gen. team. In his first year, he was named Southern Conference Coach of the Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, said, “Coach White brought a passion Year. His team went on to win 85 games in his first six years as a coach and, for many sports, a level of leadership and good sportsmanship, and drive to in 1987, played for the Southern Conference Championship. compete that hundreds of athletes, like myself, will never forget.”

In 1992, he left the Institute and became the athletic director of Patrick Perhaps the best distillation of White’s character and his contributions Henry High School in Richmond, Virginia. During the next six years, the to the life of the Institute came from Col. Thomas W. Davis ’64, author of school’s football team won 57 of 65 games, as well as five district and four “The Corps Roots the Loudest: A History of VMI Athletics” and longtime regional titles. In 1994, Patrick Henry took home the trophy for the State history professor. “If I were to reduce my thoughts about him to one word, AAA Division 5 Championship. it would be care,” said Davis, who also served as chair of the VMI Athletic White returned to VMI in 1998, this time as the athletic director, a posiCouncil. “Donny White cared. He cared about all cadets, not just the tion he would hold for 15 years. During that time, White led the effort to cadet-athletes. He cared about all coaches and all members of the athletic develop a robust women’s sports program. Although there were only 160 department staff. And he cared about the faculty and staff. All this caring female cadets when he began this work, VMI eventually established seven meant he cared about the Institute—and everyone connected with it, inteams, including water polo. He also was responsible for moving conference cluding alumni. Let us long remember his caring and try to care as he did.” affiliations for all sports, ensuring opportunities for meaningful competition White is survived by his wife of 34 years, Bettie; four children; and 10 for every team. In spring 2013, he was instrumental in VMI’s return to the grandchildren.

Southern Conference. Under his leadership, the Institute also embarked

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VMI Alumni Review

Bryan ’69 and Paulette ’69 Receive VMI Foundation Distinguished Service Award

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer At the 2021 Founders Day Convocation, two brother rats—Charles F. Bryan Jr. ’69, Ph.D., celebrated public historian and commentator, and William A. Paulette ’69, prominent businessman and engineer—received the VMI Foundation’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award. The presentation was made by Thomas H. Zarges ’70, VMI Foundation president. First presented in 1969, the Distinguished Service Award recognizes alumni and friends whose service to the Institute, dedication to the mission of the VMI Alumni Agencies, and career achievements and distinctions are exceptionally commendable. To date, only 75 people have received the award.

Zarges said the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees decided to present the award to Bryan and Paulette, who he described as “two remarkable men,” because their lives “have been characterized by significant professional achievement, selfless service to their professions and their

communities, and an unshakeable devotion to the Institute and its advancement.”

One of the country’s most distinguished public historians, Bryan was the president and chief executive officer of the Virginia Historical Society from 1988-2008. His dynamic leadership and bold vision transformed it into an awardwinning organization that increased the scope of its programs, expanded its headquarters, and hosted tens of thousands of visitors annually.

After retiring from the VHS, Bryan helped found Bryan & Jordan Consulting, LLC, which specializes in strategic planning, fundraising, board and staff relations, and executive searches for nonprofit institutions and higher education.

He has published extensively on various historical subjects and is a frequent columnist for the Richmond Times-Dispatch.

Bryan served on the board of the National Museum of American History and was the president of the American Association for

State and Local History and the Independent Research Libraries Association. He participates in the Organization of American Historians’ Distinguished Lecture Series. In recognition of his service to public history and his other accomplishments, the Virginia General Assembly named him the Outstanding Virginian of 2009.

Bryan has been a faithful alumnus and has long sought ways to improve VMI’s remarkable education. His service included two four-year terms as a trustee of the VMI Foundation and acting as an advisor to the VMI Alumni Agencies during its recent restructuring.

Paulette is the chairman and chief executive officer of KBS, a construction firm he founded in 1975. KBS is one of the most respected construction firms in the mid-Atlantic, completing many high-profile projects for private and public customers. He also has been active as a professional citizen, serving on the board of the Virginia State Board for Contractors, and in his community as

After receiving the Distinguished Service Award, Charles F. Bryan Jr. ’69, Ph.D., and William A. Paulette ’69 review the Founders Day parade with Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, superintendent.—VMI Photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

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a board member of Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia and the chairman of the Henrico County Community Services Board.

Paulette has served the Institute extensively.

He was a member of the VMI Keydet Club Board of Governors from 1997-2002 and again from 2010-19. He served as the Keydet Club’s president from 2011-16 and, in that role, was an ex-officio member of the boards of the VMI Alumni Association and the VMI Foundation.

Appointed to the VMI Board of Visitors in 2002, he served eight years, and he was the board’s vice president and led its athletic and external affairs committees. In 2017, the VMI Keydet Club recognized his service to VMI athletics with its Spirit of VMI Award.

replied that he had done so because Paulette was a VMI graduate, and he had worked with other VMI graduates who had impressed him.

“He took a chance on me because of others who went to VMI.” Before he ended his remarks with an exhortation to the football team, thanking them for making him and many older alumni happy by winning the Southern Conference championship earlier this year and urging them to further victories this year, he addressed the cadets directly, asking them to follow his example as an alumnus to “give back to VMI, give of your time, talent, and treasure.”

When Bryan addressed the audience, he focused on the meaning of the term, “the

Papke ’07, who, after serving in the Marines, became a successful entrepreneur.

He continued, “The unique VMI educational system is often cited as the underlying reason for that record of achievement. But it is a path toward a college degree that few people choose.”

He then explained that the rigors of the VMI education, which he then listed, probably prevent most people from even considering VMI as their college. And, he said, as cadets, many alumni have asked, “Why am I doing this to myself?”

Alumni are glad they persevered in their cadetships; however, he continued, because “when all is said and done, most of us who chose to attend VMI think we are the better for it.”

He closed by posing questions to the Corps.

After receiving the Distinguished Service Award, Paulette (left) speaks of his close ties to the Institute and his brother rats and exhorted the audience to serve VMI. In his exploration of “the VMI type,” Bryan (right) stresses the many admirable traits shared by all alumni.

In his remarks to the audience, Paulette reflected on the fact that “you don’t just go [to VMI] for four years; you go for the rest of your life.” To illustrate that point, he recounted that, although he had eagerly looked forward to graduation, as he drove home that day with his fiancée, Carolyn, he began crying. When she asked him the reason, Paulette answered that it had just hit him that he would never again be in barracks with his brother rats. “VMI is my home,” he said, “and those men are my brothers.”

He also recounted the many VMI alumni who have influenced him as a businessman and a leader in service to VMI, highlighting Elmon T. Gray ’46 and G. Gilmer Minor III ’63 as mentors to him as well as examples of leadership and service. He mentioned, too, that when he was a young engineer, he took a new job. After a few years in the position, he asked the man who hired him why he had done so. The man

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VMI type.” He said many alumni and cadets probably think of the stereotypical alumnus “decked out in red pants, white shirt, and a yellow blazer,” and who “constantly complains that VMI ‘isn’t like what it was like in the Old Corps.’ He’s sometimes referred to as ‘Mister VMI’ because that’s all he seems capable of talking about.”

He then reflected on how the width and breadth of the experiences of alumni seem to argue “there are many VMI types.” He cited numerous examples of this to include George C. Marshall, Class of 1901; Li-Jen Sun, Class of 1927, a successful Chinese general during World War II; Jonathan Daniels ’61; John P. Jumper ’66, who was chief of staff of the U.S. Air Force; his brother rat, John McLaughlin ’69, who, after being an infantry officer, worked for years as a clown with the Ringling BrothersBarnum & Bailey Circus; and Carrie (McAtee)

“Do you consider honor central to your core being? Do you have the determination [to] face adversity head-on? Are you willing to look out for those who need a helping hand regardless of their gender, ethnicity, or social and economic circumstances? Finally, are you willing to serve your country and community?

If your answer to those questions is, ‘Yes,’ then you are the VMI type.”

Later, Zarges said of Bryan and Paulette, “Through their professional achievements and selfless service, these two alumni have brought great credit to the Institute. Their devotion to the advancement of the Institute and their contribution of so much time and effort have made VMI a better college and strengthened its ability to graduate men and women ready for consequential lives of service, success, and leadership. I was privileged to present this award to them.”

VMI Alumni Review

Distinguished Service Award Citation Presented to Charles F. Bryan Jr. ’69 WHEREAS, CHARLES F. BRYAN JUNIOR, CLASS OF 1969, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in history and a strong record of accomplishment and leadership as a cadet; and

several organizations related to public history and museums, including the National Museum of American History, as a board member and president; and

WHEREAS, he continued the Institute’s proud tradition of the citizensoldier by serving as an armor officer in the United States Army from 1971 to 1973; and

WHEREAS, he served his community on the board of the Medical College of Virginia Foundation and as a leader in the effort to establish a comprehensive research and treatment center for Parkinson’s Disease at the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine; and

WHEREAS, after his military service, he pursued graduate studies in history, eventually earning a Ph.D. from the University of Tennessee; and WHEREAS, after receiving his Ph.D., DR. BRYAN embarked on a career in public history that spanned three decades; and WHEREAS, he was the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Virginia Historical Society from 1988 to 2008, and, in that role, completely revived it, and, moving it to, as stated by the American Association of Museums, “the first rank of historical organizations in the nation;” and WHEREAS, DR. BRYAN compiled an admirable record as an editor and writer on topics related to museum management and Civil War history as well as a long-time and popular commentator for the Richmond Times-Dispatch; and WHEREAS, he was an exemplary professional citizen, serving

WHEREAS, among his many honors and awards is his selection by the Virginia General Assembly as the Outstanding Virginian of 2009; and WHEREAS, he was a trustee of the VMI Foundation from 2010 to 2018, during which time he made many significant contributions to the organization’s work on behalf of the Institute and the Corps of Cadets and, after which, he served as an advisor to the VMI Alumni Agencies; and WHEREAS, his professional achievement, selfless leadership, and dedicated service has brought immense credit upon Virginia Military Institute; THEREFORE, the Board of Trustees of the VMI Foundation is proud to recognize CHARLES F. BRYAN JUNIOR, by presenting him with its Distinguished Service Award.

November 11, 2021

Charles F. Bryan Jr. ’69 (center) receives the award from Thomas H. Zarges ’70 (left), VMI Foundation president, and Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, superintendent.

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Distinguished Service Award Citation Presented to William A. Paulette ’69 WHEREAS, WILLIAM A. PAULETTE, a 1969 graduate of Virginia Military Institute, has been a recognized leader in his profession, his community, and in support of the Institute; and WHEREAS, after service as an armor officer in the United States Army from 1970 to 1972, Mr. Paulette entered the field of civil engineering; and WHEREAS, he applied his education in civil engineering and the many life lessons he learned from VMI’s unique military education and as a twosport cadet-athlete to establish the construction firm, KBS, in 1975; and WHEREAS, under the leadership of MR. PAULETTE, KBS has become one of the top-rated construction firms in the Mid-Atlantic area, recognized for both the quality of its work and scope of its projects for many highprofile clients in the public and private sectors; and WHEREAS, he has made significant contributions to the improvement of his profession and community by serving several organizations including the Virginia State Board for Contractors, the Henrico County Community Services Board, and Make-A-Wish Greater Virginia; and WHEREAS, he has been a persistent champion of VMI’s NCAA Division One intercollegiate sports program and the coaches, staff, and cadetathletes associated with it; and WHEREAS, his steadfast support includes serving on the VMI Keydet

Club’s governing board from 1997 to 2002 and again from 2010 to 2019, and being its president from 2011 to 2016; and WHEREAS, he was responsible for bringing to fruition many of the initiatives that made VMI athletics stronger; and WHEREAS, in 2017, the VMI Keydet Club recognized his unfaltering dedication to VMI’s sports program by presenting MR. PAULETTE with its highest honor, The Spirit of VMI Award; and WHEREAS, as a member of VMI’s Board of Visitors from 2002 until 2010 and the board’s vice president and the chairman of its athletic and external affairs committees, he played a critical role in the effort to improve every aspect of VMI’s extraordinary education; and WHEREAS, he has provided critical guidance to the VMI Alumni Agencies as they transformed themselves over the past several years to improve the performance of their duties and accelerate the advancement of Virginia Military Institute; THEREFORE, the Board of Trustees of the VMI Foundation recognizes this long and notable record of dedicated service to Virginia Military Institute and the VMI Alumni Agencies by presenting the Distinguished Service Award to WILLIAM A. PAULETTE. November 11, 2021

William A. Paulette ’69 (center) receives the award from Thomas H. Zarges ’70, VMI Foundation president, and Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, superintendent (right).

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Virginia Military Institute celebrated the 182nd anniversary of the Institute’s founding on a mild Nov. 11, 2021. The day was filled with pageantry, athleticism, and gratitude. Charles F. Bryan Jr. ’69, Ph.D., and William A. Paulette ’69 received the 2021 Distinguished Service Award in Cameron Hall.

Afterward, they joined Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, to take review of the parade. The Cadet Battery fired a rousing salute with the howitzers to honor the occasion.

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In the morning, 4th Class cadets participated in Rat Olympics. This event, held in the Corps Physical Training Facility, is a culmination of a 10-week physical education program known as Rat Challenge. The activities, which include tug-of-war, relays, and rock climbing, offer cadets a chance to compete for the Stockwell Cup, which is awarded to the company that works the hardest and displays the best attitude, named for the late Col. Bill Stockwell.

VMI Alumni Review

Photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin and Kelly Nye, VMI Communications & Marketing.

Founders Day 2021: Celebrating 182 Years

First Fall Reunion | Sept. 2-4, 2021 Class of 1975 & the Honored Class of 1970

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

Second Fall Reunion | Sept. 24-25, 2021 Classes of 2006 & 2016 and the Honored Classes of 1995 & 2011

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

Third Fall Reunion | Oct. 4-5, 2021 Classes of 1951, 1956, 1960, 1961, & 1966

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

Fourth Fall Reunion | Oct. 29-30, 2021 Classes of 1976, 1986, & the Honored Class of 1996

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Photos by Micalyn Miller and Mary Price, VMI Alumni Agencies.

On Post Young Named VMI Chief of Staff

By Col. Bill Wyatt, VMI Communications & Marketing

Lt. Col. John Young.—Photo courtesy of the Department of Defense.

Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, superintendent, named Dr. J.M. “John” Young to be Virginia Military Institute’s next chief of staff in September 2021. Young was most recently chief of staff and vice chair for administration/ assistant professor in the Department of Preventative Medicine and Biostatistics at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences’ F. Edward Hebert School of Medicine, U.S. Department of Defense.

“Doctor Young brings a strong academic, management, and leadership background to VMI,” said Wins. “His service as a U.S. Marine, in the defense industry, and his higher education experience have prepared him well for the rigors of the Virginia Military Institute, and I am looking forward to his fresh perspective.”

Young earned a Doctor of Professional Studies in Information Management degree from Syracuse University School of Information Studies, an executive master’s in leadership from the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business, a Bachelor of Science degree in health systems administration from the University of Maryland Global Campus, and a master teacher professional development certificate from the George Washington University School of Medicine.

He taught courses in leadership, research methods, health care management, and quality at the Uniformed Services University of the

Health Sciences and the George Washington University, where he held joint faculty appointments in clinical research and leadership at the School of Medicine and in epidemiology and biostatistics at the Milken Institute of Public Health. As a civil servant, Young was a senior advisor and policy analyst at the Department of Health and Human Services for over a decade.

He served four years as a public member, Board of Directors, Federation of State Boards of Physical Therapy. Young also served as a U.S. Marine Corps reservist.

“I am honored to be the next chief of staff at Virginia Military Institute,” Young said.

“Major General Wins has put forth a bold vision for VMI through his ‘One Corps—One VMI: A Unifying Action Plan.’ I am excited to join the Institute’s faculty, staff, and cadets in continuing to move VMI forward as one of the nation’s top institutions of higher education.”

Young began his responsibilities as chief of staff Sept. 20. VMI’s chief of staff is responsible for coordination, control, and integration of Institute priorities and issues. The chief of staff oversees VMI’s operations, financial aid, admissions, and communications and marketing efforts.

Young is originally from Chicago, Illinois, and currently resides in Washington, D.C., with his wife, Erie, and German shepherd, Luna. Young is an active member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.

Baur Exercise Physiology Lab Dedicated

By Kelly Nye, VMI Communications & Marketing Family legacies at VMI are not uncommon, but most of them involve graduating from the Institute, passing down the family uniform, or even living in the same barracks room. The Baurs have a more direct legacy, one that impacts VMI academically and physically. A member of the family has taught a course on exercise physiology since 1989.

“It’s our family business,” said Maj. Dan Baur, Ph.D., assistant professor of physical

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education. “More specifically, it’s our business to teach exercise physiology at VMI.” Now, that legacy will be honored with the newly named Thomas S. Baur Exercise Physiology Laboratory in Cormack Hall.

The late Thomas “Tom” Baur ’75 graduated from VMI in 1975 with a degree in biology. He commissioned into the U.S. Army and served two years on active duty, primarily stationed in Korea. He then pursued a master’s degree

in exercise physiology at West Virginia University, finished it at Purdue University, and eventually returned to VMI to teach biology in 1988. With Baur’s background in exercise physiology, he began a course on the subject at VMI. By 1992 Baur was a colonel, serving as department head of biology.

When Baur retired in 2013, his son, Capt.

Steve Baur, began teaching the course in the physical education department. By then, the

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On Post course was fondly known by cadets as the “Baur Power Hour.” That same course was then taught by his sister-in-law, Capt. Katie Baur, who taught it until 2018 when her husband, Steve’s brother Dan, took it over.

Tragically, Tom was struck by a vehicle while cycling in Rockbridge County and died in 2018.

“I can’t think of anything more meaningful and inspiring than working in a lab named after my dad,” said Dan during the dedication ceremony held Sept. 5.

Close to 100 people attended the ceremony, many of whom were Tom’s brother rats from the Class of 1975. Also in attendance were faculty and staff, including Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, current cadets, and alumni whose lives were all impacted by the Baur family.

Donations from the Class of 1975 led to an endowment in Tom’s name, which funds research for cadets participating in the exercise science minor. The endowment also includes the Thomas S. Baur ’75 Award for excellence in exercise science.

Two cadets have received the award so far: Aldo

Vidro ’21 and Cole Bordonie ’20.

Bordonie attended the ceremony and spoke of the Baurs’ impact on his life. He never knew Tom, but after the international studies major took Katie’s exercise physiology course, he realized his interest was greater than he expected.

With some help from Tom’s widow, Judy Baur, who works in the registrar’s office, Bordonie was able to take Dan’s course as well. Now he is attending the same graduate program Dan completed at James Madison University.

“Working in the lab changed my life a lot while I was here,” said Bordonie. “I never got to meet Colonel Baur, but I know he would have treated me the same way as each of his family members who I’ve been fortunate enough to meet.”

Physical education department head Col. Jimmy Coale, Ph.D., knew Tom well and spoke of his quiet strength.

“I would be enlightened. I would feel much better, and I knew I would leave with a smile on my face after having a conversation with Tom,” said Coale.

Coale worked closely with Tom because Tom

always maintained his connection to physical education. He assisted with Rat Challenge, a 10-week training program led by the physical education department for cadets during their first semester at VMI. And he helped develop the Summer Transition Program, which offers accepted students a chance to familiarize themselves with VMI, take a course, and get in shape before the Rat Line begins in the fall.

But one of Tom’s most important roles at VMI was as the superintendent’s representative to the Honor Court.

“His most famous saying was ‘honor is a lifestyle,’” explained Dan. “I believe what he meant by this is honor is not something you achieve. It’s something you pursue with effort and dedication.”

By this measure, Tom served not only as a teacher to cadets but also as a mentor. He was a model of physical excellence who balanced his work life with his family life, including by sharing that work with them.

As Dan surmised, “I think for all of us, Dad’s legacy can be summed up in three ways.

He was a bridge, a teacher, and an example.”

Maj. Dan Baur, Ph.D., assistant professor of physical education, speaks of his father’s career at VMI during a dedication ceremony.

The ceremony named a Cormack Hall lab after the late Col. Tom Baur ’75 in Cormack Hall.—VMI Photo by Kelly Nye.

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VMI Alumni Review

On Post

VMI Logos Change with the Times

By Mary Price, Associate Editor They’re everywhere now—on water bottles, billboards, and stadium seat cushions, even onesies for babies. College logos are big business, producing multimillion dollar revenue streams for the largest schools.

At VMI, the familiar spider-shaped logo made out of the intertwined letters is as familiar to members of the Institute community as the shape of the barracks seen through morning fog. But has VMI always had its current logo? And who came up with the idea of putting letters together to form a logo in the first place?

Answering those questions, Col. Keith Gibson ’77, director of the VMI Museum System, tells a story of 19th-century innovation in the form of a cipher—a mark deliberately meant to convey meaning to the initiated while puzzling outsiders. Even Queen Victoria had a cipher, Gibson noted. The mark of royalty soon appealed to commoners as well, and the popularity of the cipher spread.

“The VMI cipher of the 19th and early 20th century took on an enormous variety of very creative and artistic interpretations,” said Gibson.

Cadets were free to design their own ciphers, or ones representing their class, and many did so, with the emblems adorning invitations and dance cards. Graphic artists at printing firms likely also assisted with the creation of ciphers.

The earliest cipher dates from the late 1860s, and many late 19th century ciphers are quite elaborately drawn, with flourishes and other enhancements reflecting the tastes of the Gilded Age. “[The ciphers] very much capture the aesthetic of the period in which they’re found,” said Gibson.

By 1900, intercollegiate athletics were becoming increasingly popular, and the need for sports teams to be instantly recognizable made the cipher a natural fit. The football team first wore the intertwined letters in 1901.

Around the same time, the Institute adopted its colors of red, white, and yellow, and the familiar scheme in which each letter is a different color began. Gibson explained that the colors were chosen for the Army combat arms branches at the time, so red was chosen for the artillery, white for the infantry, and yellow for the cavalry. All the 19th-century ciphers had been black and white only.

In 1922, the familiar shape of today’s logo first took form, with a yellow V, a red M, and a white I. The trademarked logo of today, with the words “Virginia Military Institute” in black letters surrounding the logo in a circle, was adopted in 1989 on the occasion of the Institute’s 150th anniversary.

VMI logos have changed over the years. Above are logos from 1878-1921.—Graphic courtesy VMI Communications & Marketing.

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On Post

Arsenal Key Symbol of Stewardship

By Mary Price, Associate Editor

At the parade that marked his inauguration as VMI’s 15th superintendent Sept. 10, Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85 received an unusual item: A large iron key to the main door of the 1816 state arsenal that preceded VMI, now ceremonially adorned with a red, white, and yellow ribbon.

While the key has been around since the early 19th century, the tradition of presenting it to an incoming superintendent didn’t begin until then-Maj. Gen. John W. Knapp ’54 was inaugurated in 1989. Former superintendents Lt. Gen. Josiah Bunting III ’63 and Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62 likewise received the key at their inaugural ceremonies. “[The key is] symbolic of receiving the responsibility of stewardship of the Institute,” said Col. Keith Gibson ’77, director of the VMI Museum System. “In 1839, the key represented the stewardship of guarding the 30,000 arms in the arsenal. Today, the key represents accepting stewardship of guarding the education of citizen-soldiers who, in turn, guard the state and nation itself.”

And while Wins is the fourth superintendent to have received the key, Gibson pointed out that the Institute’s first superintendent, Gen. Francis H. Smith, would not only have had the key but would have used it in the early years of his superintendency to unlock the main door of the arsenal, as that building, which was burned in Hunter’s raid in 1864, was the Institute’s main building until Old Barracks was constructed in 1851.

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Cadet Cole Cathcart ’24 holds the key to the arsenal before presenting it to Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, superintendent, during the inaugural parade.—VMI Photos by Eric Moore (above) and H. Lockwood McLaughlin (below).

The key to the arsenal’s main door is usually kept in a shadow box in the superintendent’s office. “It’s a real conversation piece,” said Gibson.

Eight additional, smaller arsenal keys are on display in the VMI Museum, along with a piece of one of the arsenal locks.

VMI Alumni Review

On Post

Leadership Conference Focuses on Citizen-Leaders

By Maj. Michelle Ellwood, VMI Communications & Marketing

The 12th annual VMI Leadership and Eth- toxic,” she said as she kicked off her talk. Re- He mentioned that this term is used so freely, ics Conference, “Evolving Civic Leadership: search shows that humans, even as small chil- especially in political environments.

Wood, who is biracial, explained the vastly Citizenship and Social Responsibility,” held dren, like to be part of groups and are driven Monday, Nov. 1, and Tuesday, Nov. 2, in to defend their groups. The problem is when different backgrounds of his parents, who each Marshall Hall, brought more than 160 partribalism takes over political systems because showed him “different narratives of American ticipants and several universities from across it becomes the lens through which everything existence,” providing him a wealth of views the nation to the table to talk about current counts—where facts and policies don’t matter. and perspectives from different branches of his family. hot-button topics and hear from inspirational Chua says several factors are causing the Wood’s wife is a military veteran. In speakspeakers. Participants learned how important divisions: Massive demographic transformaactive citizen leadership is to the health of our tion, social media, and the rise of the divide in ing to an audience, a majority of whom are exploring military futures, he said, “The instiAmerican republic. Central to the conference’s America between coastal elites and the middle tution of the United States military, at its best, programming were small group discussions Americans or working class. provides a framework in which we can harness and speakers focusing on the aspirational She, an optimist, says maybe things aren’t so the deeper sorts of values and commitments ideals of active citizenship and social respon- bad; recognizing what makes America special sibility, beginning with our national founding is how we can move forward in reunifying that we share as Americans, extending beyond the differences in our identity in a way that documents, the Declaration of Independence efforts. She and the other speakers pointed and the U.S. Constitution. The conference out that America’s unique bond comes from gives us common cause and a common misprogramming advocated that the individuals a commitment to a certain creed, ideas, and sion, and allows us to transcend the things that are so bitterly dividing the American people at in our audience are all citizen leaders with the words—particularly those in our country’s this moment.” potential to create change on the smallest to founding documents rather than race, religion, He asked the audience members to reevalulargest levels. or ethnicity. For this reason, every member of Registrants included VMI cadets, students the audience was given a pocket U.S. Consti- ate what they each can offer American society.

The missions don’t always go as expected, but from other senior military colleges as well as tution. that doesn’t mean anyone should lose confitraditional colleges, VMI alumni, and other Later in the morning, John Wood Jr., nationinterested individuals. Maj. Gen. Cedric T. al ambassador for Braver Angels, an organiza- dence, integrity, or moral character. “The best argument is done by example.”

Wins ’85, superintendent, welcomed attendees tion dedicated to helping Americans overcome With Braver Angels’ facilitators onsite Monday morning and emphasized how nice it political polarization, spoke to attendees, was to be back to a face-to-face conference after whom he greeted as his “fellow Americans.” to guide them, participants in the Leadership Conference then debated pivoting to a virtual platform cadet-selected controversial during coronavirus pandemic topics. The topics included restrictions last academic year.

COVID-19 vaccine mandates, “VMI is an exceptional place the U.S. military intervening in to have this conversation and foreign countries, transgender glean insights into active citiathletes, and social media zenship and civic leadership,” content regulations. The four Wins said. breakout groups found creThe first guest speaker the ative ways to report out their audience heard from was Amy groups’ findings during the Chua, a Yale law professor and conference, some using video, author of the book, “Political while others created skits, Tribes: Group Instinct and to show the different ways the Fate of Nations.” She is a debates can be handled civilly daughter of two immigrants and educationally. and used her time during the The first day ended with dinconference to dive into why ner speaker, Eric Liu, founder the United States is so “bitterly of Citizen University, whose divided” and how the future John Wood Jr., national ambassador for Braver Angels, speaks to participants leaders of America in the audi- of the VMI Leadership and Ethics Conference, “Evolving Civic Leadership: mission is to build a culture of powerful, responsible citience might overcome this.

Citizenship and Social Responsibility,” in Gillis Theatre Nov. 1. zenship in cities across the “Partisanship has become

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On Post country. Liu, like the other speakers, confirmed we are in a culture where people have many different viewpoints and political perspectives and asked “How, as a nation, do we close the gap between our creed and our deeds?”

Citizenship is something that must be cultivated, and we must take personal responsibility when we want to see change or leadership.

According to Liu, citizenship happens when we are fluent in the proper use of power and develop our collective civic character to organize and engage.

“We own responsibility for the good, the bad, and ugly, the past, the present, and the future,” Liu said.

On the second day of the conference, William McNulty, a Marine veteran and founder of Team Rubicon, a group that trains veterans to respond to natural disasters, spoke to the crowd. Team Rubicon came about from a group of eight individuals who used their military experience to organize and respond to the 2010 earthquake in Haiti in just 24 hours. Now Team Rubicon Global has more than 100,000 members with units in Australia, Canada, Norway, and the United Kingdom, in addition to the United States. About 75% of those involved in Team Rubicon are veterans.

The organization has garnered support from four U.S. presidents and members have even worked side by side with Prince Harry.

McNulty learned valuable lessons along the way which helped him and his team focus the company’s mission and operations toward more internal objectives which help veterans, such as providing a sense of purpose, a sense of community, and a sense of identity. McNulty helped the audience understand the high of responding to crisis events and how continual exposure to such working environments can trigger a kind of addiction response that can be dangerous, as was the case with a friend whom they met on their first mission, a veteran named Clay. Clay discovered Team Rubicon online and sought them out during their efforts in Haiti. Noted McNulty, “Daily, 22 veterans commit suicide. In 2011, Clay was one of them.” McNulty said Clay taught him that “friends don’t let friends go through terrible things alone.” McNulty went on to say, “Clay’s message is to show up for one another. Find a purpose you’d navigate an earthquake for.”

His remarks were followed by a panel discussion featuring alumni who demonstrated civic engagement in action. The group, along with others, initiated collaborative efforts to enhance

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VMI cadets participate in the 12th annual VMI Leadership and Ethics Conference, “Evolving Civic Leadership: Citizenship and Social Responsibility,” held Monday, Nov. 1, and Tuesday, Nov. 2, in Marshall Hall.—VMI Photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin. diversity, equity, and inclusion at VMI. Moderating the panel was Lt. Col. Jamica Love, Ed.D., the Institute’s chief diversity officer.

Lester Johnson ’95, Sean Lanier ’94, and Keniya Lee ’19 talked about what it means to be involved with the Institute after graduation, what it was like reading about VMI in the news so much in the last year, and how important it is to have empathy during cadetship and afterward. Speaking on his own behalf, Johnson, who is a member of VMI’s Board of Visitors like Lanier, said that, as a society, we “need to expand our ability to have empathy.”

The conference’s final speaker was U.S. Army Staff Sgt. David Bellavia, the only living Medal of Honor recipient from Operation Iraqi Freedom. Bellavia brought humor and passion to his remarks and encouraged cadets and other audience members not to be afraid of failure, or of being awkward and uncomfortable. Gillis Theater was nearly full, with his speech open to the public, as he emphasized knowing one’s own personal identity and purpose. “If you know who you are, no one can take that away from you—no matter what they say to you or about you, because no one can take away from you what you are.” Accountability, consistency, love, and loyalty were the values he emphasized.

He told people the pandemic our country has been facing for decades is stupidity. He encouraged listeners to “avoid stupid,” and that “stupid is contagious, and stupid will kill.”

Being dedicated to the team is critical, and things like religion, gender, sexual orientation, or political affiliation don’t matter. The only

thing that matters is the answer to this question: “Are you going to stand by my side? Yes or no?”

Being open and understanding, treating people with dignity and respect, and showing up are part of setting the standard. “We fight because we love. ... We have been fighting for love since 1776.” He wrapped up his talk by going back to his message about having greatness. “When the world hits you with negativity ... nothing gets in the way of your greatness!”

Bellavia has also written a book titled “House to House,” which is considered one of the best firsthand military accounts ever written, and copies were sold during the Leadership Conference. Attendees had a chance to meet Bellavia and get their books signed. He later had an office call with Wins, and toured post with cadets, including a visit to barracks with Col. Adrian T. Bogart ’81, commandant.

Col. Dave Gray, Ph.D., VMI Center for Leadership and Ethics director, felt proud of this year’s conference and his team’s efforts, saying, “Each speaker and each interactive activity we designed into this conference brought depth and a variety of perspectives on how to view what it means to be a citizen-leader. The feedback we received from the conference participants has been very positive. We hope that they will continue to discuss and reflect on this conference for quite some time to come.”

Next year’s Leadership Conference will be held Oct. 30–Nov. 1, 2022, with an announcement of the theme and title coming in the spring. To stay informed, please visit the conference website and join the mailing list at conferences.vmi.edu/leadership.

VMI Alumni Review

Athletics Keydet Club Presents Spirit of VMI Award to Gray ’73

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

Garland Gray II ’73 receives the Spirit of VMI Award from the VMI Keydet Club at the VMI versus Chattanooga football game Oct. 9, 2021.

Gray was awarded the honor for the services he has rendered VMI athletics.

Between the first and second quarters of VMI’s football game against the University of Tennessee-Chattanooga Oct. 9, the VMI Keydet Club recognized the service that Garland Gray II ’73 has rendered VMI athletics by presenting him with its highest honor, the Spirit of VMI Award. First presented in 1975, the Spirit of VMI Award recognizes outstanding service and support to VMI’s intercollegiate athletic program. In the award’s 46-year history, there have been fewer than 40 recipients.

As a cadet, Gray participated in rat swimming and was involved in many other activities. A civil engineering major, he was consistently on the dean’s list and wore academic stars. He began working for his

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family’s company, Gray Lumber Company based in Waverly, Virginia, after he graduated from VMI. He currently serves as the president of Gray Lumber Company, which manages the family’s timberland and farmland portfolio. He also is a member of the board of directors of Grayco, which manages all the family’s assets.

Gray has served VMI ever since his graduation. He served a term on the VMI Keydet Club Board of Governors from 1979-82 and became a member of the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees in July 2021.

For almost five decades, Gray has been a consistent and visible leader in support of the Institute and the Corps of Cadets, giving generously

to advance every aspect of VMI’s extraordinary education. His support of VMI’s cadet-athletes has accelerated the progress of several teams, including VMI football, and provided many young men and women the experience of representing VMI at the highest level of intercollegiate sports, an experience that prepares them for lives of honorable leadership, high professional achievement, and selfless service.

Gray’s support includes the establishment of the Elmon T. Gray ’46 Athletic Scholarship in 2015. That scholarship honors his father, who—besides being an industrialist, philanthropist, and long-serving state senator—was an enthusiastic fan and generous benefactor of VMI athletics who received the Spirit of VMI

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Athletics Award in 1991. The VMI Keydet Club previously honored Gray by granting him a place on its Wall of Honor in Cameron Hall.

Asked for his reaction at being informed he was receiving the award, he replied, “I am truly humbled to be selected for the VMI spirit award, as I am keenly aware of the support and involvement of previous recipients of this award.”

As to what has motivated him to support VMI, Gray explained, “I am pleased to assist VMI because it is a vibrant example of timeless values of honor, duty, and teamwork. I am proud to see VMI be competitive in athletics without compromising its standards.” He also mentioned his family’s ties to VMI as a reason for his support. “The Institute has been an integral part of three generations of my family, and I want this excellent college experience to be available to the next generation.”

Through his philanthropy, Gray has made VMI accessible to many young people, something which has had a profound effect on their lives, just as it has added to his family’s sterling legacy of leadership in the ceaseless effort to ensure a bright future for the Institute.

Andrew Deal ’12, Keydet Club chief operating officer, congratulates Gray after the Spirit of VMI Award presentation. For more information about helping VMI cadet-athletes, visit vmialumni.org.—VMI Photos by H. Lockwood McLaughlin.

Miller Appointed Interim Athletic Director Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, appointed Jim Miller to serve as VMI’s interim director of intercollegiate athletics.

Miller retired in 2014 as the athletic director at the University of Richmond and has more than 30 years of experience working in NCAA athletics, including a stint as an assistant basketball coach at VMI from 1979-82.

“I’m excited to welcome Jim Miller back to VMI,” said Wins. “Jim is largely responsible for recruiting me to play basketball at VMI. I know firsthand that he can compete and win at the highest levels. That’s exactly the type of leadership we want leading our coaches and cadet-athletes.”

Miller spent 12 years as athletic director at the University of Richmond.

During that time, the Spiders won an FCS national championship in football, had three NCAA appearances in men’s basketball—including a trip to the

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Miller

Sweet 16—and captured 44 conference titles among 12 sports. As athletic director, he was an advocate for student-athletes, an effective fundraiser, and a strong proponent of the fan experience.

Wins has asked Miller to conduct an initial assessment of the VMI athletic experience within the context of Wins’ “One Corps—One VMI: A Unifying Action Plan.”

“I am honored to answer Major General Wins’ call to serve VMI,” Miller said. “I thoroughly enjoyed my time at VMI and look forward to contributing to moving VMI athletics forward.

There’s no doubt in my mind that VMI can compete and win in every sport on a regular basis.

My job will be to determine what obstacles and opportunities exist to get us to that point.”

Miller began his role as interim athletic director Oct. 1, 2021.

VMI Alumni Review

Athletics

Keydet Football Posts Second Straight Winning Campaign In fall 2021, VMI football continued to rewrite VMI football history.

Fresh off its first Southern Conference title in 43 years, which was captured the previous spring, VMI posted a 6-5 record to give the program its first back-to-back winning seasons since 1961-62.

The Keydets, picked to finish third in the 2021 fall SoCon coaches’ preseason poll, were a viable contender for another SoCon crown until week 10 of the season, when key injuries to several impactful players took their toll. VMI also returned to the FCS national rankings during the season, attaining as high as the No. 17 spot before dropping out of the Top 25 in November.

2021 will be remembered as the year of the comeback as VMI rallied to several exciting victories at Foster Stadium. The Keydets overcame two 11-point second-half deficits to dispatch No. 19 Chattanooga in overtime, 37-34, on Family Weekend Oct. 9, then pulled off an astonishing 46-45 win against Samford Oct. 30, rallying from a 21-point late second-quarter deficit for the conference win at Foster Stadium.

Here are some notable achievements of the 2021 fall season.

• VMI posted at least five wins for the third consecutive season—something that had not been achieved since the 1960-62 timespan.

• VMI went 4-1 at Foster Stadium for its first four-victory home season since 2008.

• The Keydets posted a dominating 45-7 road victory against Mercer, a team previously unbeaten in conference play, Oct. 16. VMI rolled up 306 yards rushing on the ground for its most in a single game since 2009.

• VMI, fueled by a high-performing offense that averaged 42.7 points and 524.7 yards, won three consecutive games in October for the first time since 2002.

• Twelve VMI football cadet-athletes earned spots on the 2021 Southern Conference postseason squads. Landing first team all-conference honors on both the coaches and media teams were Stone Snyder ’23, linebacker, and Warren Dabney ’22, defensive lineman. Earning spots on both teams with at least a first team representation on either squad were Jerry Rice ’23, placekicker (first team coaches, second team media); Robert Soderholm ’22, long snapper (first team coaches, second team media); Nick Hartnett ’22, offensive lineman (first team media, second team coaches);

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Michael Jackson ’22 helps rally VMI from a 21-point deficit in a win over Samford with 10 catches for a career-high 211 yards (5th most in VMI history).—Photos courtesy VMI Keydets. and Jack Culbreath ’24, punter (first team media, second team coaches). Voted to all-conference second teams were Michael Jackson ’22 and Jakob Herres ’22, wide receivers (coaches and media); Ethan Caselberry ’22, defensive back (coaches and media); and Aljareek Malry ’23, defensive back (coaches). Hunter Rice ’25, running back, and Kandler Martin ’25, outside linebacker, earned honors on the All-Freshman team voted by the league coaches.

• Snyder led the Southern Conference in tackles for the second straight season, averaging 10.9 per game. He had 49 solos and 71 assists for 120 total tackles and posted double-digit tackles in six games in 2021, giving him 12 for his career.

Snyder led the team in TFL (11 for 36 yards), sacks (4), quarterback hurries (5), and fumble recoveries (3). Snyder was named SoCon Defensive Player of the Week Sept. 27 after a season-best 19 tackles and was also selected to the 2021 Buck Buchanan Top 25 Watch List for the second straight year.

• Herres, returning All-American wide receiver, battled through injuries throughout the year but still caught 47 passes for 500 yards and five touchdowns. He finished his career as VMI’s all-time touchdown reception leader with 26, just eight receptions shy of school record holder Aaron Sanders ’17 (2013-16) and 85 yards behind all-time receiving yardage leader Mark Stock ’88 (1984-88). Herres had nine catches for 115 yards against The Citadel Oct. 2 for his 13th career 100-yard game.

• With 525 yards total offense against Samford Oct. 30, Seth Morgan ’23, VMI redshirt

sophomore quarterback, set a new VMI singlegame total offense record. Morgan completed 28 of 42 passes for 472 yards and three touchdowns and rushed for 53 yards in the 46-45 win over the Bulldogs. The 472 yards were also the second-highest single-game mark by a VMI quarterback in program history—behind only Reece Udinski’s [’21] 491 yards against Western Carolina in 2018. Morgan’s 400-plus yard game against Samford was only the fifth all-time in school history, and he later added a sixth when he passed for 415 yards against Furman Nov. 13.

• Rice, placekicker, converted 17 of 19 field goals on the season and was 39 of 39 in extra points and led the SoCon in most field goals made and was second in field goal accuracy (89.5%). Rice finished the year hitting nine straight field goals and had six field goals of 40+ yards, including a career-long 49-yarder against Chattanooga Oct. 9. Rice was five for five in FGs against Chattanooga and hit a 37-yarder for the game-winner in OT and was named SoCon Special Teams Player of the Week.

• Jackson, wide receiver, led the team in receiving yardage (695) and touchdowns (6) and caught a career-high 13 passes for 177 yards and three touchdowns at Furman Nov. 13. He helped rally VMI from a 21-point deficit in a win over Samford with 10 catches for a career-high 211 yards (5th most in VMI history) and a game-winning touchdown with 3:14 left.

• Korey Bridy ’22 had a superb senior year cut short by injury but still had 100-yard rushing games against Wofford (career-high 171 yards) and Chattanooga (165 yards).

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Athletics

Women’s Soccer 2021 Season Recap The VMI women’s soccer team continued to improve during the 2021 season and showed signs for future success under Chris HaughtThompson, third-year head coach.

The Keydets opened the season with three close losses but then won two straight, including a 2-1 overtime thriller against Winthrop Aug. 28 and then a 2-0 victory over visiting Hampton Sept. 2.

Riley Flanagan ’25 was named the SoCon Offensive Player of the Week Aug. 31 after totaling six points—two goals and two assists—between the win over Winthrop and a close 4-3 loss to Iona Aug. 26. She also scored the golden goal against Winthrop in the overtime period.

The Round Hill, Virginia, native was named to the Southern Conference All-Freshman Team after tallying eight goals for the year, which tied for fourth-most in the league. She also tallied five assists—tied for fifth in the league—for a total of 21 points, which tied for third-most in the conference.

The Keydets finished the season with three wins but found other positives, including Whitney Edwards-Roberson ’22 making the All-Southern

VMI women’s soccer celebrates a successful play during a home match on Patchin Field.—Photo courtesy VMI Keydets.

Conference Tournament team for her efforts in a close loss to The Citadel in the postseason SoCon tourney.

VMI earned a hard-fought 2-2 tie with Mercer on senior day, Oct. 10, in a match that recognized Maria Vargas ’22, Edwards-Roberson, Erin Kozlowski ’22, Sarah Anschutz ’22, and Gabby Criscione ’22, departing seniors.

Edwards-Roberson ’22 Selected to Attend Leadership Forum Whitney Edwards-Roberson ’22, women’s soccer, was selected to attend the NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum in Houston, Texas.

The Chesapeake, Virginia, native was chosen among Southern

Whitney Edwards-Roberson ’22 has played in over 48 games—including 34 starts—throughout her cadetship.—Photo courtesy VMI Keydets.

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Conference member schools to serve as the conference’s cadet-athlete representative. The conference has seen more than 5,000 NCAA student-athletes participate in a weekend of programming aimed at developing leadership skills, understanding of the relationship among personal values, core beliefs, and behavioral styles, and the building of a personal network of like-minded peers.

This transformational opportunity allows participating studentathletes to realize their potential and return to their campuses to serve their fellow student-athletes.

Edwards-Roberson has served in various leadership roles both within athletics and on post. During the 2021-22 academic year, the women’s soccer captain will additionally serve as president of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, vice president of investigations for the Cadet Equity Association, and president of the Promaji Club.

On the soccer field, the forward has highlighted statistical categories within the program and played in over 48 games—including 34 starts— throughout her cadetship.

Attending the conference with Edwards-Roberson was former Keydet wrestler and current SoCon intern Cliff Conway ’21. During the 2020-21 academic year, Conway and Edwards-Roberson served as president and vice president, respectively, of the SAAC. For more information on the NCAA Student-Athlete Leadership Forum, please visit NCAA.org.

VMI Alumni Review

Athletics

Men’s Soccer Recap

Broden Schull ’22 led NCAA Division I for the third-straight season with 99 saves.—Photo courtesy VMI Keydets.

The VMI men’s soccer team posted a 3-1 win this fall at Eastern Mennonite University Sept. 28 and played UNCAsheville to a 3-3 double-overtime tie at home on senior day, Oct. 23.

Broden Schull ’22, goalie, led the very young Keydet squad as the lone senior on the roster. He led NCAA Division I for the third-straight season with 99 saves. Schull played every minute of every game for the third-straight year and ended his stellar VMI tenure with program career records of 420 saves and 5,728 minutes.

Nathan Lam ’23, midfielder, paced the offense with four goals and one assist for nine points. A host of young Keydets earned playing time this fall, and five freshmen started 10 games or more.

We are their future. vmialumni.org/203-8

WHOLE DAMN TEAM

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Events Institute Society Dinner Resumes, Recognizes Nearly 500 Supporters

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer More than 450 alumni and friends were the guests of the VMI Foundation at the Institute Society Dinner Nov. 11, 2021. After a year’s hiatus, taking place again in the Hall of Valor in Marshall Hall, the annual event recognizes the hundreds of members of the VMI family whose generosity to the Institute and its cadets places them in the front rank of supporters of the Institute. In Fiscal Year 2021, these men and women contributed tens of millions of dollars in gifts and commitments to every aspect of VMI’s extraordinary education.

After a greeting from Meade B. King ’85, VMI Foundation chief operating officer, cadets posted the colors, and the VMI Herald Trumpets played the national anthem. After the evening’s invocation from Col. Robert S. Phillips Sr. ’87, the John M. Camp Chaplain to the Corps of Cadets, dinner was served.

After dinner, Thomas H. Zarges ’70, VMI

Foundation president, thanked the guests for their philanthropy, saying, “Your gifts had a significant impact on the lives of current and future cadets, a legacy for generations to come. Your support of our academic program helped to sustain its excellence and provided a foundation for further progress. Your support of co-curriculum bolstered what makes VMI’s education undeniably extraordinary and just as undeniably effective. Your support of our athletic program sharpened our teams’ competitive edge and allowed more young people to reap the many rewards of being a cadet-athlete.”

“Your generosity,” continued Zarges, “has given VMI the ability and the confidence to carry out the mission its founders set for it—to provide our great state and great country with well-educated, purposeful, and honorable graduates prepared for consequential lives

of professional success and selfless service— which it has pursued since that snowy day in 1839.”

A short video depicting the effect of private support on the Institute and, therefore, on cadets’ lives followed Zarges’ remarks. After the video, the keynote presentation was provided by Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, the Institute’s 15th superintendent. In his first Institute Society Dinner address, he stressed the importance of maintaining VMI’s progress.

“The cost to maintain the first-rate education we provide at VMI requires a long-term commitment from all of us. We continue to invest in building the best facilities; recruiting excellent faculty, staff, and cadets; and providing opportunities for cadets to excel in sports, academics, and the military. We’ve made tremendous progress toward Vision 2039, and I believe we are on the right track, but we must not let up on our efforts.

After a year’s hiatus, all enjoy the return to Marshall Hall for the 2021 Institute Society Dinner.—Photos by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies.

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VMI Alumni Review

Events We must be diligent and forward-thinking.”

He then introduced the Institute’s new leadership team members and said, “My team and I are excited to be here and lead VMI forward. I want to reinforce that VMI is strong and has a bright future ahead. The Institute has survived adversity in the past and will in the future because our foundation is solid and not easily shaken. VMI remains essentially what it has always been: A

disciplined community for learning and leadership development, dedicated to the highest standards of integrity, civility, personal honor, and courage.”

He closed his remarks by reiterating his confidence in VMI and thanking the guests. “I want to assure you of the direction we are going into the future—a future that I believe is very bright.

You are a tremendous part of this success and

our mission moving forward. Thank you for your continued support, and rest assured the fundamentals of VMI remain strong.”

The evening closed with a spirited performance by the VMI Glee Club, which closed with “The VMI Spirit” and “The VMI Doxology” and remarks by King, in which he thanked the guests for the immense benefits their giving provides cadets.

The VMI Herald Trumpets play the national anthem.

Guests—here, Mr. and Mrs. Donald M. Martin ’13—are greeted and escorted by cadets.

Michael A. Kelly ’73 and William P. Gibson ’65.

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The annual dinner brings back to post hundreds of alumni and friends who are leaders in providing VMI private financial support in the prior fiscal year.

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Events

Among the special guests is retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. Gwen Bingham, the current Leaderin-Residence.

Meade B. King ’85, VMI Foundation chief operating officer, thanks the guests for their attendance and support of VMI.

Thomas H. Zarges ’70, VMI Foundation president, expresses his gratitude to the guests.

The Glee Club provides an entertaining end to the evening.

Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, superintendent, addresses the Institute Society Dinner for the first time.

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Three brother rats of the Class of 1971: (from left) David R. Honeywell, Warren J. “Buddy” Bryan, and David A. Ellington.

VMI Alumni Review

Events

Alumni Gather in Charleston for Military Classic of the South came to the tailgate, plus the Rat Mass of 2022+3 and members of the regimental staff. Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, attended both events.

“It was great to see so many alumni out and about in support of our great Keydet-athletes and just energized to gather together,” said Thom Brashears ’95, Alumni Association chief operating officer. “Any time we are down in Charleston is a good time—what great venues and both events were excellent atmospheres of positive alumni engagement.”

Photos by Christian Heilman, VMI Alumni Agencies.

The Keydet football team’s trip to The Citadel Oct. 1-2 for the Military Classic of the South was bolstered by two events that attracted large numbers of alumni and friends of the Institute.

The night before the game, the Alumni Association hosted a mix and mingle event at the Charleston Marriott Courtyard. Just under 100 alumni and friends enjoyed VMI camaraderie at the event. The next day, alumni and family members of all ages attended a tailgate lunch held at Joe Riley Park. Nearly 165 members of the VMI family

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Events

“Our Brand is Solid”: Superintendent Visits North Carolina Chapters

By Scott Belliveau ’83, Communications Officer

Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, superintendent, speaks to alumni and family in Raleigh, North Carolina, Sept. 29. He was the featured speaker at dinners held by the Central North Carolina-Raleigh Chapter and the Charlotte Chapter in September.—Photos by Christian Heilman, VMI Alumni Agencies.

Two chapters of the VMI Alumni Association in North Carolina—the Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter and the Charlotte Chapter—held dinners Sept. 29 and 30, respectively. At both, Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, was the featured guest and speaker.

Thomas A. Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer, welcomed the guests, providing an overview of the Association’s work for the VMI family. After dinner, Wins delivered a strong, positive message about the Institute that focused on the strength of VMI’s time-tested method of education and the Institute’s next steps forward.

His comprehensive message included numerous topics. For example, he stressed that,

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since the earliest days of his administration, both he and the VMI Board of Visitors have been firm on one point: Preserving “the things that were fundamental to VMI, its unique method of education.” Those fundamental things—where the Institute “drew a line in the sand,” as he put it—were the Honor Code, the class system, the regimental system, and “the physical component.” He then pointed out that the Barnes & Thornburg report stated the value of all those elements of the VMI education, as well as praised the excellence of the academic program and the apparent positive effects of a VMI education on the lives for cadets and graduates.

Yet, as committed to the core elements of the VMI education and as proud of its

education’s effectiveness as the Institute is, Wins continued, it cannot be satisfied with maintaining the status quo, and it never has been. He described the advances VMI had made under Vision 2039, the strategic plan developed under the leadership of his predecessor, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62. He also spoke of VMI’s recent self-assessment, a process which considered “how higher education had transitioned, how the state had transitioned, and how the country has changed” since Vision 2039 was adopted in 2005 and examined “other areas that weren’t included in Vision 2039.” The assessment— during which the superintendent spent more than 25 hours speaking with and listening to cadets, faculty, and staff across post—“talked

VMI Alumni Review

Events about a lot of things,” said Wins, including “the need for young men and women who come to VMI being able to find their place, figuring out what it is about the school that they want to excel in and how they want to grow and develop so that they can be prepared ... to go and lead in a world that so desperately needs leaders.”

The fruit of that assessment—“One Corps– One VMI: A Unifying Action Plan”—was released about the same time as the Barnes & Thornburg report. Wins discussed the crux of the report, its five “outcomes.” First among them was honor and how the Honor Code must be central to every cadet and all alumni.

Another outcome he touched on was diversity and inclusion, which, he said, “is about any young man or woman coming to VMI and being able to see themselves as part of the

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landscape, to find their place, and to chart out their own path as a part of VMI’s legacy.”

Another outcome he discussed was the VMI brand, the “outward face of VMI.” “We know our brand is solid,” said Wins.

“The best representatives of what the VMI brand is all about and what people from the outside can look in and see who we really are is our Corps of Cadets.”

“So,” he continued, “I asked the cadets when I first showed up to own the narrative of who you are as Virginia Military Institute.

Don’t let anyone else define that for you. You define, you show them what it means to be a VMI cadet, what it means to be a person of high moral character. I asked them to do that last year when we had some tough things to go through, and I asked them to do that again this year at this year’s convocation because

they have the best ability to demonstrate who we are as VMI.” After speaking for more than 45 minutes, Wins took questions from the guests, touching on the honor system, cadets’ use of social media, and the commandant’s office.

Brashears cast these events—and the many others like it that occur every year—as important because they build support for the Institute from alumni and friends in VMI and its current direction. “Any leader of an organization needs to create ‘buy-in,’ and that’s exactly what we were doing on this trip. Coming out of the pandemic, coming out of the current events, our alumni need to understand that the core of the VMI experience is not changing, that its foundation is solid, and that VMI will prosper as it continues to prepare the cadets for what they will face after graduation.”

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Events

Arkansas Chapter Gathers

Arkansas Chapter members watching the AA League Arkansas Travelers in August 2021 include (front row) Dave Walsh ’90, Hayden Whetstone ’15, (second row) Caroline and Al Robinson ’77, Scott Falls ’81, and Tish and Jim Dittrich ’76.

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Holds August Old Corps Breakfast

Attending the Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Old Corps Breakfast Aug. 17, 2021, are (front row, from left) Dixie Walker ’70, Rick McCue ’81, Drew Turner ’72, Bill Gibson ’65, Kent Wheeless ’74, Glenn Garland ’75, Pete Shelley ’74, (back row) Paul Johnston ’61, Don Brown ’71, Roger Rosenfield ’47, Parky Parkman ’66, Larry Wilson ’62, Barton Pasco ’77, Rick Hening ’75, and Sam Hening. Wilson is the chapter president.

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VMI Alumni Review

Events

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Holds September Old Corps Breakfast

Attending the Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Old Corps Breakfast in September 2021 are (from left) Rich McCue ’81, Kent Wheeless ’74, Dixie Walker ’70, Don Brown ’71, Larry Wilson ’62, Bill Gibson ’65, Rick Hening ’75, Torrey McLean ’67, and Mike Kelly ’73.

Wilson is the chapter president, and Kelly is the Region VI director.

Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Holds October Old Corps Breakfast

Attending the Central North Carolina – Raleigh Chapter Old Corps breakfast in October 2021 are (front, from left) Don Brown ’71; Ed Andrews ’70; Dixie Walker ’70; Bill Murchison ’70; Jenna Lazenby, daughter of Roland Lazenby ’74; Snookie Parker ’74; Bill Gibson ’65; Drew Turner ’72; Sam Hening; (back) Roger Rosenfield ’47; Paul Johnston ’61; Larry Wilson ’62, chapter president; Mike Kelly ’73, Region VI director; Hank Shirley ’60; and Rick Hening ’75.

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Events

Houston Chapter Holds Night with the Astros The Houston Chapter holds a Night with the Astros Aug. 10, 2021.

North Jersey Chapter Gathers Members of the North Jersey Chapter gather to watch the Somerset Patriots Aug. 27, 2021.

Jonathan M. Daniels 1961 Seminary Scholarship Dr. 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.

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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 June 15 of each year. Scholarships are awarded in July.

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Events

The Villages Chapter Holds Summer Social

The Villages Chapter holds a summer social at the hangar of Sandy and Blake Thomas ’73 at the Grass Roots Airpark in Groveland, Florida.

The event was situated beside the Thomas’ World War II Stearman aircraft. Blake and a hangar neighbor, flying a second Stearman, flew in formation and provided a small air show for the gathering. Attending are (from left) Bob Burks ’61, Boyd Gaines ’80, Kathy Hendry, Larry Hendry ’75, Howard Seal ’67, Sandy Seal, Pat Brown, Tom Brown ’78, Susan Bull, Rosanne Hack, Rick Hack ’72, Jean Burks, Bob Bailey ’72, Grace Bailey, Pam Donahue, Ted Mervosh ’67, Carol Mervosh, Sandy Thomas, Bernie Groome ’71, Alan Vicory ’74, Wanda Groome, Kathy Vicory, Blake Thomas ’73, Walt Chalkley ’72, Jim Goodwillie ’60, and Jill Donahue. Vicory is the chapter president, Blake Thomas is the Region VII director, and the Baileys were visiting from the West Coast Florida – Tampa Chapter, where Bob is the president.

Graduate School Partnerships The Virginia Military Institute has forged relationships with graduate and professional schools in Virginia and across the U.S. These agreements offer opportunities, including admissions concessions, internships, guaranteed interviews and, in some cases, guaranteed admissions.

Partnerships include Virginia Commonwealth University,

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the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Florida State University, Norwich University, Arizona State, and the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine. Programs include law, medicine, business, engineering, and communications.

Contact Ashley Clarke at clarkean@vmi.edu for more information.

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Events

Williamsburg Chapter Hosts Old Corps Luncheon

The Williamsburg Chapter hosts an Old Corps luncheon for Hampton Roads region alumni at the Center Street Grill Sept. 14, 2021. Meade King ’85, VMI Foundation chief operating officer, and Thom Brashears ’95, Alumni Association chief operating officer, joined the group and provided updates on happenings at the Institute.

Wilmington Chapter Holds Old Corps Breakfast

Attending the Wilmington Chapter Old Corps breakfast Aug. 24, 2021, at the Boat House in Wilmington, North Carolina, are Thomas Tolbert ’66, Bill Ryan ’65, Fred Ayers ’61, Mickey Finn ’65, Greg Weaver ’79, Harley Myler ’75, and John Gangemi ’61.

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VMI Alumni Review

Events

2021 Rat Send-Offs During summer 2021, VMI Alumni Association chapters welcomed incoming cadets at local rat send-off events around the country.

Thirty-eight chapters held rat send-offs, including 11 chapters in Virginia and 27 outside

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of Virginia. The cadets in the Class of 2022+3 represent 74 of the 99 VMI alumni chapters.

“Events like rat send-offs are only possible through the hard work and dedication of VMI’s wonderful alumni volunteer leaders,”

said Thom Brashears ’95, VMI Alumni Association chief operating officer. “A big, big thank you to all of the chapter volunteers who work tirelessly to support VMI and the cadets through the rat send-offs.”

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VMI Alumni Review

Progress Milestone Reunion Classes Present Checks to Institute Annually, classes celebrating a “milestone reunion”—10th, 25th, and 50th—also participate in reunion campaigns that provide the Institute the resources it needs to ensure the continuing excellence of the VMI education.

The Class of 1970 presented the preliminary proceeds of its 50th Reunion campaign to the Institute during halftime at the football game Sept. 4. With an emphasis on raising funds for the Foundation Fund and the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund—as well as the Class of 1970 Merit Scholarship and the Class of 1970 Athletic Scholarship—this effort realized $13,007,070.70 in gifts and pledges from 186 brother rats. Thomas Zarges ’70 and Ralph Costen ’70, the campaign’s co-chairmen, presented the check to the Institute and the VMI Alumni Agencies.

On Sept. 25, the leaders of the campaigns of the Class of 1995 and the

Class of 2011 presented the initial proceeds of their respective efforts to VMI. The Class of 1995—represented by Kurt A. Polk and Lloyd Taliaferro—made gifts and commitments totaling $1,929,595.95. The leaders of the Class of 2011’s campaign, Julian J. Bowers and Chad A. Lawson, gave VMI a check representing their brother rats’ pledges and donations of $110,020.11. Representatives from the Institute and the Alumni Agencies accepted the check.

The Class of 1996 presented a check for $1,639,696.96 to the Institute and the VMI Alumni Agencies Oct. 30 at their 25th Reunion. Tom Danielsen ’96, Nick Latsios ’96, and Jon Dano ’96, the reunion co-chairs, presented the check. The Class of 1996 placed special emphasis on fundraising for the Capt. Jamie Edge 1996 VMI Spirit Scholarship.

1970: 50th Reunion

1995: 25th Reunion

1996: 25th Reunion

2011: 10th Reunion

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Progress

Topasna: VMI Astronomer and Peay Chair

By Molly Rolon, Editorial Specialist

VMI’s observatory, located a few miles east of post, in McKethan Park, is one of the Institute’s great resources. From the observatory, cadets can measure things no one has measured before, said Col. Greg Topasna, Ph.D., astronomy professor.—VMI Photo by Kelly Nye. Col. Greg Topasna, Ph.D., teaches VMI’s astronomy classes and holds one of five Peay Chairs at the Institute. He’s the keeper and maintainer of the Institute’s observatory in McKethan Park and the custodian of an extraterrestrial and terrestrial material collection on post.

“I sometimes joke that it’s the ‘Department of Physics and Greg,’” Topasna smiled, talk-

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ing about his status as the lone astronomy professor in VMI’s Department of Physics and Astronomy. He began teaching at VMI in 2000 and became the Institute’s astronomer in 2006. In this role, he teaches astronomy classes and advises astronomy minors. Two of his favorite courses are astrobiology—where students ponder life in other parts of the universe—and cosmology, where they consider

theories about how the universe was made and “how we got here.”

Visitors to Topasna’s office can see several programs running on his computer screens.

He’s immersed in complex topics, like measuring the distance between stars and the earth and determining if there is matter—like dust—in between. An enthusiastic teacher, Topasna easily switches to explanations in more straightforward language for nonastronomers. He likes to share how to see stars without any special equipment. He’s a fan of a free program—stellarium.org—which anyone can download to see a realistic, 3D sky.

The program, he said, is updated regularly by astronomers around the world.

No visit to Topasna is complete without a short detour to Mallory Hall’s basement, where he’ll let visitors hold bits of the universe in their hands—a piece of Mars, depleted uranium, bits of meteorites, and more. The collection is destined for more exposure in a display case on Mallory Hall’s third floor. Cadets in the Astronomy Club are working on ways to showcase the specimens and draw in passersby. Rather than labeling what could be mistaken for ordinary rocks, Topasna has the cadets looking into using an iPad and other technology, which can show video or photos relating to each piece in the exhibit. For instance, the collection includes a portion of the Chelyabinsk meteor, which landed in Russia in 2013. With technology, someone could watch video footage of the meteor falling, giving more context to the tiny fragment on display.

Topasna enables cadet learning through hands-on research and projects. He involves cadets in research, often beginning with a night or two at the observatory.

If conditions are perfect, Topasna and his students can use the observatory about 10 days per month—during the new moon, plus a few days on either side of the new moon.

“The weather during that one and a half weeks has to be clear. You have these windows of opportunity to go, and you make the most of it,” he said. The first part of the night is spent getting the system set up. There’s nothing worse than spending the night gathering data, he said, and then having to sleepily work backward to set up measuring standards at 4 or 5 a.m.

VMI Alumni Review

Progress free from rodents, Topasna noted.

“Ever since two black snakes moved in, I’ve been very happy.”

One of his wish list items—aside from another astronomer—is a place on post for cadets to look at the sky.

He’d like a cement pad and a dome and could use a telescope he has on hand to put the set-up somewhere on post, like the roof of Mallory Hall.

The observatory is a valuable resource for VMI, but weather, light conditions, jam-packed cadet schedules, and distance make it inaccessible for many cadets most of the time. A telescope on post, though not able to measure data in the same way the observatory does, would conveniently allow cadets to view the night sky almost any evening.

Topasna’s chair, the Commodore Matthew Fontaine Maury Chair for Academic Excellence, is funded by the General J.H. Binford Peay III 1962 Endowment. When a professor holds a chair or professorship at VMI, the private funds pay the professor’s entire Topasna is the Commodore Matthew Fontaine Maury Chair for Academic Excellence. His chair is funded by salary and add a financial bonus to the General J.H. Binford Peay III 1962 Endowment for Academic Excellence.—Photo by Molly Rolon, VMI the salary. The Institute is then able to use the commonwealth-provided Alumni Agencies. funds, which would have been used VMI’s observatory helps the Institute astronomer help his students. for the chair-holder’s salary, to increase pay for fellow VMI faculty.

Often, when they finish a long night looking at the heavens, he points Topasna appreciates many aspects of being named a Peay Chair. He’s out to the students that they’ve truly done something new. They’ll be happy that his colleagues get a small boost in salary, and of course he looking through their findings, and he’ll say to the cadet, “No one’s appreciates his own raise in salary. He also feels that the “Peay Chair” ever done that before. You’re the first person to measure that. You’ve title under his signature adds a bit more weight to any communications done something no one else has done before.” he makes—particularly in support of students.

Aside from weather conditions and making sure instruments are set If he advocates for a student applying for a grant, a program, or to capture data correctly, light pollution is slowly becoming a concern. graduate school, his letter doesn’t come just from Col. Greg Topasna, Nighttime illumination from superstore developments north of Lex- Ph.D. It comes from the holder of a Peay Chair. ington is almost four miles from the observatory by road but closer “It’s a little more gravitas,” he said. “I can help my students through as the crow flies—and as light travels. The lights are gradually adding that title.” to the area’s light pollution. Topasna is hopeful that the observatory He also sees the value of being able to help his students more and can continue to gather data for another decade or two—or longer, that his state-supported salary is used to better VMI as a whole. A depending on area growth. professor who loves what he does, Topasna is dedicated to his job and At the observatory, VMI’s only astronomy professor is also the guy his students—and would do it every day, with or without recognition. who takes charge of fixing anything and everything. He’s built equip“I’m going to go to work, do my job, and enjoy what I do,” he said. ment, like a polarimeter, and has developed a keen sense of how each “That’s why I became a professor.” piece of equipment should sound. A few years ago, he heard a different The General J.H. Binford Peay III 1962 Endowment for Academic noise when he opened the top of the observatory.

Excellence began in 2017. The Peay Endowment has four funds.

“In the middle part [of] the summer, I was out there, got in, turned Two funds—the Peay Chairs, with five VMI professors, and the Peay the telescope, and turned the dome. It makes a familiar noise that Merit Scholars, with three current cadets—are actively moving VMI I’m used to and then when it stopped, I kept hearing this [noise],” he forward. The other funds are the Peay Fellows, which assists alumni in said. He looked up and “there was the giant black snake just kind of obtaining graduate degrees, and the Peay Academic Excellence Fund, making its way along the track.” which gives VMI the ability to take advantage of unrestricted funds to The snake has proven to be a good team player, keeping the observatory distribute funds to the areas of highest need within the endowment.

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Progress

Sustaining Excellence: Coaches Compensation Fund

By Scott Belliveau '83, Communications Officer Today, no discussion about sports lasts long without the introduction of analytics. Every sport—baseball, football, basketball, soccer, and even golf—has its ever-expanding set of statistics and measurements, many of which are downright esoteric. Rankings abound, too, and each is founded on—yes—more statistics. If you want another set of bewildering numbers to enter the conversation, mention gambling.

It is often hard to devote the time to learn what they mean and see if the claims made based on them have any validity. This is not to say that all these numbers and rankings are useless. Some indeed tell an interesting tale or, at least, bring attention to one. One such ranking concerns VMI football. This year, in terms of the compensation of the football team’s assistant coaches, VMI ranks fourth in the Southern Conference,

VMI could offer alumni a solution as to how to increase the scholarship support for cadet-athletes—e.g., give to the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund or endow a scholarship for, say, lacrosse—it could not offer them a solution to the compensation problem. So, Hupp came up with a solution.

“I suggested the VMI Foundation create two endowments, one devoted to football and another devoted for any team,” he recalled. “The Foundation leadership and the Keydet Club agreed.”

Asked why a separate fund for football was necessary, he replied, “A lot goes into building and maintaining a winning program in any sport, but none are as demanding as football. It requires facilities, equipment, and personnel—both on the field and on the sidelines—on a relatively large scale.” The football team’s rising fortunes were another factor. “The coaches were an extremely

was Scott Wachenhiem and his assistant coaches.

Coach Wach provided the vision and strategy, and his assistants put it into action in practice and in competition.” The key to future success, as Deal puts it, was “keeping this winning team together, and the key to that was increasing the compensation to the assistant coaches.”

As the interest in the fund increased, an alumnus offered a challenge match. “Alumni are known for responding to challenges, and now we could give them one: Their donations would be matched dollar for dollar.” The team’s success and the challenge grant served “to move the needle significantly,” as Deal explains, and by late November 2021, almost $2 million had been given or pledged to the fund.

According to Wachenhiem, the fund’s initial effect was threefold. “First, it helped reward

“So, if anyone is keen on accelerating the progress of any of our teams, do what VMI alumni are trained to do: Lead.” up from ninth just a couple of years ago. That relatively simple change in a ranking has behind it an interesting story of generosity, leadership, and success.

A few years ago, VMI thoroughly examined its intercollegiate sports program with an eye toward improving it across the board. The task seemed daunting because in many categories, when ranked against other teams in the Southern Conference, VMI ranked last.

One of these categories was the compensation of coaches. Stephen E. Hupp Sr. ’84, former VMI Foundation president, remembers what brought home to him the effect this ranking had in real terms. “After the 2019 season, when VMI football had posted a 5-7 record, Scott Wachenhiem, our head coach, told a meeting that he had had 36 assistant coaches in six years—and that he had never fired any of them. In other words, they all had gone on to better opportunities.”

Hupp also recalls being told that this problem was not confined to football but common to every team.

According to Hupp, alumni are “leaders and problem solvers.” He realized that while

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important element to the team’s improvement, and that made it imperative to keep them at VMI.” In the first six months after the endowment was established, alumni came forward with $50,000 in additional gifts. “Admittedly,” said Andrew C. Deal ’12, Keydet Club chief operating officer, “that was not a lot, but the interest definitely was there among alumni and friends.”

It is often said success begets success, and so it was with this endowment. This past spring, VMI football began its pandemic-delayed 2020 campaign. It was a thrilling time in which the team displayed VMI’s “never say die” spirit and, as it chalked up several victories, rose steadily in national polls. The season was capped magnificently when VMI won the Southern Conference’s football championship outright for the first time since 1974.

Not long after the season, many in the VMI family started asking how they could help the team sustain its success. And the VMI Alumni Agencies had the answer. “Many people can take a share of the credit for the championship,” said Hupp. “Undeniably, however, the driving force

these hard-working, dedicated assistants for winning the Southern Conference championship by providing them a pay increase above and beyond what the usual funding sources would allow.”

Second, it allowed an assistant coach to move from part-time to full-time, giving VMI a total of 10 full-time coaches. That brought VMI up to the same level as other Southern Conference teams.

Finally, it stabilized the staff, from which the program derives many benefits. “Football is no different than any business,” Wachenheim stated.

“People who know each other and have worked together create a more effective, more efficient organization.”

One benefit is in recruiting, said Wachenhiem.

“Recruiting is relationship driven, and it takes time. If a coach who has been cultivating a player leaves the team for which he is recruiting, that young man might hesitate to maintain a relationship with that team.”

Another is in terms of player development.

“Our job is to help the young men on this team to develop as leaders, as mentors, and as players.

If a staff stays the same, the more the systems stay the same. That allows us to increase every

VMI Alumni Review

Progress player’s performance level. First, we teach the basics—how to do something, be it be an offensive lineman, a running back, or a punter.

That establishes a baseline. Then, we teach them what to do in different situations. That improves their performance. The next step is to teach them why we do it the way we do. That gives them a fuller understanding of the game and their roles in it, and that allows them to realize their maximum performance.”

There also is an intangible effect, said Wachenhiem. “I thank Steve Hupp for getting this started and all those who have given it such a good start. It has been meaningful to our entire staff and me to know that alumni think highly enough of us to reward our efforts. Rewarding people motivates them to work harder, and all of us are.”

Jim Miller, VMI’s interim athletic director, praised those who had helped develop the fund and have given to it. “I deeply appreciate the alumni who got behind this effort because it helps Coach Wachenhiem reward and retain the coaches who transformed VMI football into a successful program that is getting widespread attention and bringing great credit to the Institute as a whole and attracting new coaches to the program in the future.”

It also, Miller says, helps the Institute meet one of its top athletic challenges. “If we want to increase the competitiveness of our teams and boost their chances to compete for championships, we need to substantially increase their operating budgets. As a public college, VMI doesn’t have the freedom to allocate money as it sees fit. Its relatively small student population means it doesn’t have the revenues that larger public and private institutions can count on.

The only way it can do so, therefore, is through the generosity of its alumni and friends.

“VMI has long had a great reputation for harnessing the loyalty, energy, and enthusiasm of its alumni when it comes to fundraising. The current success of the coaches’ compensation fund attests to that. But this success needs to be replicated throughout the sports program.”

Hupp agrees with this sentiment. “There is no one who wants to see our teams win more than me. I want all of them to be competing for and winning conference championships. And we can get there if the VMI family gets behind our coaches, staff, and cadet-athletes.

“The framework is there, and it works. So, if anyone is keen on accelerating the progress of any of our teams, do what VMI alumni are trained to do: Lead.”

2022-Issue 1

Private Support Makes Peay Scholarships Possible

By Mary Price, Associate Editor For the first time, three cadets are benefitting from alumni support as Peay Merit Scholars this academic year.

Named for the Institute’s 14th superintendent, Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62, the Peay Merit Scholarships are designed to reward excellence across all three domains of the VMI experience—academics, athletics, and the military—by providing selected cadets with a full-ride scholarship covering tuition, fees, room, and board. The scholarships can be renewed for up to four years.

“The long-term goal of the Peay Merit Scholars program is to raise enough funds to provide five scholarships in each class or 20 in the Corps,” said Brig. Gen. Robert “Bob” Moreschi, Ph.D., dean of the faculty and deputy superintendent for academics. “Strategically, we want to provide our admissions and academic teams the ability to compete for talented, well-rounded students who may also be interested in attending federal service academies or top universities.”

The Peay Merit Scholarships began with a small group of passionate alumni led by the late Donald “Donnie” Wilkinson ’61, a former member of both the VMI Board of Visitors and the VMI Foundation Board of Trustees. As the founding chairman of the General J.H. Binford Peay III 1962 Endowment for Academic Excellence, Wilkinson envisioned a program that would strengthen VMI’s academics while honoring Peay, who excelled across all three areas as a cadet before going on to a 35-year career in the U.S. Army and serving for 17 years as VMI’s superintendent. The Peay Endowment Cabinet, which oversees the fund’s administration, is now headed by Gen. John P. Jumper ’66, retired Air Force chief of staff.

“We share Donnie Wilkinson’s vision of a powerful academic program that not only attracts quality candidates but provides the tools to actively compete for the highest quality talent, able to thrive in the VMI system,” said Jumper.

“Providing for a robust student base parallels other provisions of the Peay Endowment to recruit and reward top faculty, and to advance opportunities for VMI cadets and graduates to pursue careers in academic fields.”

The inaugural Peay Merit Scholars consist of two 2nd Class cadets, both majoring in electrical

and computer engineering, and one 4th Class cadet, an international studies major. Cadets of any major are eligible for the Peay Merit Scholarships.

Cadet Dominick J. Lalena ’23 from Stafford, Virginia, plans to commission into the Army and would like to serve with the Cyber Corps.

He’s a member of the S2 staff, a position he takes seriously since he was unsure about his own major—one with very high attrition—when he was a rat. Lalena has worked hard and been successful and wants to help other cadets be successful academically. With that goal in mind, he’s developed a mentorship program for electrical and computer engineering rats with activities such as study sessions, tutor sessions, book reading sessions, and other activities.

Lalena is “absolutely honored” to be one of VMI’s first Peay Merit Scholars and is grateful for the scholarship.

“For me, it’s the biggest thing that’s ever happened in my entire life besides, you know, coming to VMI in the first place,” he stated. “And so I also subsequently forwarded that email [with the scholarship news] to all my teachers, thanking all of them for helping me get to this point, and that just kind of goes back to I’m just incredibly thankful for this. I still have the email pinned in my inbox. I look at it every day as a reminder of this is where hard work gets you. And to continue to work hard. Yeah, that was awesome.”

It’s been a long journey for someone who’d had some struggles in high school and didn’t consider himself a strong student when he matriculated.

Now, he wears academic stars and has a high cumulative GPA. He’s always been sure about VMI, though. It was the only school he applied to.

“VMI was really the only place I wanted to go to,” he commented. “I knew that there was no other place that would really fit me and my desires. I had a very specific set of goals and a vision of who I wanted to be as an adult. And I knew that VMI would be the only place I could achieve that fully in the extent that I wanted to.”

Lalena views alumni as “pillars of excellence” and is excited to join their ranks. “These are people who are valuable members of society, who contribute, who put service above self, who

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Progress are selfless individuals who are always caring for others, and [are] always working hard,” he stated. “You know, you can get that from another place, but no place will prepare you for that like VMI will.”

Cadet Binh Q. Tran ’23 from Ashburn, Virginia, grew up in Vietnam and moved to the U.S. in 2015. He’s a member of the Cadet Investment Club and jiu-jitsu club and part of the S2 staff, which supports cadets needing help with academics. Tran is also an assistant investigator for the Cadet Equity Association.

Tran came to VMI because he wanted to commission in the Air Force and because of VMI’s small class size, alumni network, and the physical, mental, and academic challenges VMI offers.

He was “extremely happy” when he learned he would receive a Peay Merit Scholarship and immediately called his parents.

“It’s the best thing that I have that I received for the past few years, so I was really happy and really glad that I got the scholarship,” said Tran, who is the first person in his family to go to college in the United States. “I’m extremely thankful to all the alumni who are making this happen and

I feel like this is one of the reasons why VMI is one of the best schools in the U.S.” For Tran, giving back is imperative, and thus he’s happy to be a member of the S2 staff. As a recent English language learner, Tran knows the importance of receiving assistance.

“I’m really glad that I’m able to help [cadets] out and make sure they can improve their performance in terms of academics,” he noted.

Cadet Patrick J. Simmons ’25 from Quantico, Virginia, is an international studies major. A member of the Naval ROTC, he plans to commission into the Marine Corps. He came to VMI because of the challenge and because he felt like the Institute was one of the best places to learn about becoming a Marine. He considered the Naval Academy as well but saw a greater brotherhood and pride among VMI alumni. He is thankful for his scholarship and that people care enough about him and his goals and want to help him.

“I wouldn’t have been able to come here if they didn’t give me that money,” Simmons stated. “I just feel very, very blessed.”

As he begins his cadetship, Simmons strives to

emulate the model of excellence set by generations of the Institute’s alumni.

“I want to be a great person, as in the VMI way, like the three-legged stool, so academics, military training, and sportsmanship,” he said. “And I think that’s like the best way to be the most wellbalanced person you could be because you’ve got to try hard in everything you do.”

In addition to providing cadet scholarships, the Peay Endowment supports two other initiatives designed to increase academic excellence.

The Peay Academic Excellence Chairs provide private funds to support some faculty positions, thus freeing state funds to be reallocated among all Institute faculty members.

Thanks partially to this approach, faculty salaries have risen by an average of 34% in the last five years, and on average, 16% of each faculty member’s salary now comes from private funds.

This rise in salaries is necessary to support the hiring and retention of top-notch faculty members.

In addition, the Peay Fellows program supports graduate studies for qualified alumni, with the expectation that they will come back and teach at the Institute afterward.

Cadet Binh Q. Tran ’23, one of three Peay Scholars in Academic Year 2021-22, stands with Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85 (left), superintendent, and Brig. Gen. Robert Moreschi, Ph.D., dean of the faculty. The other two Peay Scholars are Cadets Dominick J. Lalena ’23 and Patrick J. Simmons ’25.—VMI Photo by Kelly Nye.

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VMI Alumni Review

Staff News Price Joins Alumni Agencies as Associate Editor

Price

Mary Lanford Price joined the VMI Alumni Agencies in October 2021 as associate editor. Before coming to the Alumni Agencies, Price served as a writer and photographer for the VMI Office of Communications and Marketing since 2012. In that position, she wrote extensively about cadets, faculty, and events on post and captured some great photos for the Institute.

Before working with C&M, Price served as a newspaper reporter and college instructor, as well as managing editor of a newspaper in Stanardsville, Virginia. She has won more than 10 Virginia Press

Association awards over the past 20 years. A native of Rockbridge County, Price earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Sweet Briar College and a Master of Arts degree from the University of Alabama, both in English.

“Mary brings almost a decade of institutional knowledge with her as she moves over to Moody Hall from Smith Hall,” said Jordan Whitman, Alumni Agencies editor-in-chief. “We are so excited to have her join the team as she begins to work with class agents and the alumni who will serve as subjects for her articles.”

Shanks Joins Alumni Association as Program Outreach Officer Bridget Shanks joined the VMI Alumni Association in November 2021 as a program outreach officer.

Shanks comes to the Alumni Association by way of Cameron Hall and VMI athletics, where she most recently served as the assistant athletic director for tickets and marketing. In this role, she managed ticket sales and operations for Keydet football and basketball, oversaw the Student Athlete Advisory Committee, and supported various department operational needs.

Before her 2018 arrival at the Institute as director of tickets and marketing, Shanks was the graduate assistant for the James Madison University Duke Club.

In this position, she helped to support the operational needs of the athletics fundraising arm, interfacing

with donors through event planning and premium seating opportunities, gift processing, benefit facilitation, and student and young alumni giving.

A Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, native, Shanks earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication and kinesiology: sport studies from the University of New Hampshire and a Master of Science degree in sport and recreation leadership from JMU. “We are thrilled to welcome Bridget to our team,” said Thom Brashears ’95, Alumni Association chief operating officer. “The combination of her talent, expertise, and knowledge of VMI will allow us to take our new outreach efforts to the next level. She knows VMI alumni, and she knows the cadets and the post. Bridget will be a true asset.”

Shanks

WE DO GREAT THINGS WHEN WE ALL PULL TOGETHER.

VMI GIVING DAYS APRIL 4-7, 2022 vmialumni.org/MissionEndures2022 2022-Issue 1

61

CLASS NOTES

1941

Stuart Seaton Jr. ’73

Editor’s Note: The Class of 1941 is no longer submitting class notes. Stewart Seaton ’73 remains the point of contact for the class.

1942

Brittany Szczepanik ’20

I hope everyone was able to enjoy holidays filled with loved ones, relaxation, and a little bit of good food. We have officially rung in 2022, and that means it is the Class of 1942’s 80th Reunion year! Three brother rats will be celebrating this year: Mr. Robert W. Goodman, Mr. George W. Heath Jr., and Col. John M. Patton. I know each of the gentlemen are excited, thankful to see this reunion, and will be partying extra for the 209 brother rats who have passed. Most notably deserving were their 13 brother rats who were killed in action during World War II. Both Mr. Robert W. Goodman and Col. John M. Patton celebrated their 100th birthdays this past September! Col. Patton’s family put together a birthday party for him in the community room of his assisted living complex. Despite COVID-19 restrictions, he still had 45 guests, which included fellow alum Dave Northcraft ’73, who presented Col. Patton with gifts from the Alumni Association. The colonel was in great form and really enjoyed his party.

Since the last round of class notes, I had the pleasure of speaking with John M. Paton ’71.

Two VMI alum, 29 years apart, with the exact same name. Now that they have connected, I look forward to hearing about their stories shared!

Finally, I really enjoyed receiving a phone call from Mrs. Siebert, the widow of Mr. Harry Siebert. Mr. Siebert was the best of friends with Col. Patton, and Mrs. Siebert brilliantly recounted many wonderful VMI reunions the two families participated in. Not to mention her awesome Air Force career experiences. Even more noteworthy

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Class of 1942: Retired U.S. Air Force Col. John Patton at his 100th birthday party. was Col. Patton’s excitement when he received Mrs. Siebert’s phone call. The two spent a great deal of time recounting favorite memories and updating each other on their whereabouts.

As always, it has been a great deal of fun keeping the remaining members of the Class of 1942 connected to the Institute. Warmer weather and reunion planning is to come!

1943 William B. Garber ’64

Greetings, I am composing these notes on Veterans Day 2021. Many in the Class of ’43 served in World War II. Some saw action in Korea, and several served in Vietnam. We thank them on this day, and all veterans, for their sacrifices and contributions to the nation.

This time around, it is my sad duty to report the deaths of three brother rats, bringing the number of surviving members of the class to one.

Dr. Robert Reeves died Sept. 13 at Warm Beach Senior Community nursing facility in Stanwood, Washington, nine days before his 100th birthday.

According to information in his obituary, Dr. Reeves graduated from high school in Long Island where he was class president. At VMI, he achieved the top grade point average in the class and received the Society of the Cincinnati Medal at graduation.

Dr. Reeves was part of VMI’s cavalry ROTC unit and, from that, acquired a lifelong love of horses. He was a member of the Hunt Club and of the Institute’s wrestling team.

After VMI, Dr. Reeves attended the University of Virginia Medical School, where he was president of his class, graduating in 1945. He served on active military duty in the U.S. Army Air Corps at Scott Air Force Base in Bellevue, Illinois, from 1947-49.

In 1952, after completing his residency and a fellowship, Dr. Reeves practiced internal medicine with a sub-specialty in endocrinology in Seattle. In 1968, he opened a private practice in Olympia, Washington, and subsequently performed hypertension research at Saint Joseph’s Hospital in Tacoma, Washington. He is survived by a son, Robert Jr.; three daughters, Catherine, Ana, and Elizabeth; and many grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

A second brother rat, Dr. Bill Winter, passed away Monday morning, Oct. 25. He was 99.

The following summary is from his obituary that I located online: After graduating from VMI with a degree in chemistry, Dr. Winter earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Virginia in 1946. After his internship at Presbyterian Hospital in Chicago, he came on active duty with the Army and completed his residency in internal medicine at Brooke Army Hospital, Fort Sam Houston, Texas. After the Korean War, Dr. Winter transferred to the Air Force.

Dr. Winter’s final assignment was as director of outpatient activities at Wilford Hall, Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio, Texas. He completed active duty as a lieutenant colonel in 1961.

After leaving the military, Dr. Winter was a professor of medicine at the University of Colorado and the University of Texas-San Antonio medical schools.

Dr. Winter enjoyed playing golf all his adult life and was an avid football fan. For many years, he was a season ticket holder to U.S. Air Force Academy football games, having been assigned there while on active duty as one of their first flight surgeons. In recent years, whenever I corresponded with his wife, Judy, she often indicated watching

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes football was one of his favorite pastimes.

Dr. Winter is survived by his wife, Judy; son, Bruce; daughter, Heather; step-son, George; and nine grandchildren.

On Nov. 22, Capt. Charles Beckham died at the age of 100. In last quarter’s Alumni Review, he was the Institute’s second most senior alumnus.

Charles lived independently until January of this year when he suffered three strokes, according to Bill Herring, his son-in-law. As noted in last quarter’s column, he celebrated his 100th birthday June 1 with his children at his side in the assisted living facility in Houston.

A Taps notice for Capt. Beckham will appear in the May 2022 issue of the Alumni Review.

That is all the news I have for this period, unfortunate as it is. Hopefully, Bill Gottwald, the surviving member of this distinguished class, is finding time in his busy schedule to relax and do a little fishing!

That’s the news for this round. Stay safe and healthy everyone! ’43, ’43, ’43!

1944 Jonathan Safrit ’10

Best wishes and happy new year from the Class of 1944.

I’ve had several occasions to speak with Bob Smothers during this period, and he seems to be doing very well. He celebrated his 99th birthday last December and has set a great example of a life well lived. Here’s to many more birthdays, Bob! He recently sent me an issue of the Saturday Evening Post from 1939 which featured VMI on the cover commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Institute’s founding. Bob cited this publication as one of the influences of his deciding to attend VMI. If you can ever get your hands on a copy, I would highly recommend it. It’s a very interesting read.

Harold Lockwood is doing better since contracting COVID-19 in early September. He has had some lingering health issues most likely related to COVID-19, but hopefully, by the time these notes come out, that will all be a distant memory.

Harold will be celebrating his 100th birthday between these notes coming out and the next set of

2022-Issue 1

notes being submitted, so we have no time for any sickness keeping him the least bit down. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

That’s all for these notes. As always, friends, family, and members of 1944 are welcome to reach out to me anytime.

The Class of 1944 wishes you all the best!

1945 Jonathan Safrit ’10

The Class of 1945 wishes all reading this the best for 2022.

Unfortunately, this notes period was dominated by the passing of 1945 graduate Dan Walser. Dan passed away peacefully Sept. 1 at the age of 97.

He spent two years at VMI before leaving with most of his class to serve in World War II. After four years in the Marine Corps, Dan returned to graduate from VMI in 1948. After getting his MBA from Harvard Business School, Dan enjoyed a long and successful life. Through it all, Dan kept VMI close to his heart. I can only hope to reach his longevity and share in his treasured sentiments of our alma mater. My most heartfelt thoughts and prayers go to the Walser friends and family.

Not much else to report on, but I wanted to again call out a few members I’ve been unable to reach, and perhaps the VMI community could help track them down. They are Douglas G. Lindsey, Robert G. Moore, and James W. Tinsley. I’d love to hear from them or their family or friends and get an update if possible.

very excited about being back in the city and reconnecting with friends and family. I hope this finds each of you well and safe following the holiday season.

Before the end of the year, I was contacted by Bonnie Moss, daughter of James B. Moss Jr. Like many of the Class of 1946, James graduated with a different class—in his case, the Class of 1950B. Bonnie’s mother recently passed, and Bonnie contacted me after finding my name in some of her mother’s papers. James passed in 1998, but his wife, Janie Moss Harmon, remained close to the Institute and kept many of the mailings she received from VMI over the years.

At the time of her father’s passing, Bonnie donated a copy of her father’s wartime diary to the Institute, which can be found in VMI’s archives today.

James Moss enlisted in the Army in 1943 and served with the 15th Field Artillery Observation Battalion, participating in combat at the Anzio beachhead, Mount Camino, and Monte Cassino.

In total, his unit saw 554 straight days of combat operations. Following the war, James completed his electrical engineering degree with the Class of 1950B, was commissioned a second lieutenant in the Army, and later served in the Korean War. Bonnie was kind enough to send some photos.

1946

David M. Hudock ’97

Friends, Family, and Members of the Class of 1946!

Greetings from my new location in Washington, D.C. My wife and I moved back to the nation’s capital in October so I can pursue work with the Department of the Navy. North Carolina was great and we enjoyed our time there, but we are

Class of 1946: James B. Moss.

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Class Notes I sincerely thank Bonnie for sharing this information about her parents and am honored to be able to write about James, Janie, and their connection with VMI. Thank you for sending, and thank you for sharing your VMI experience!

My best to you all, and may you all remain safe and healthy.

1947 Paul Munson ’87

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 1947.

1948A

Dale E. Wykoff

11, 2021. He was 94. Ed came to VMI in June 1944 from Yazoo, Mississippi. We met a few weeks after our arrival, and I was very happy to find someone from close to home. I remember him as a very nice-looking young man of average height with dark hair. I tried to locate him in our class picture but was unsuccessful. He left after one year for service in the Army Air Force. He served overseas and achieved the rank of corporal. After completing his military service, he continued his education, receiving a Bachelor of Arts degree from Ole Miss in 1949 and a law degree from the University of Virginia in 1952. Angus Crook was in medical school at UVA at the same time. I believe they met on the train going to Charlottesville. They kept in touch with each other for the next few years. Ed returned to Yazoo City and married Mary Ann Holmes in 1953. He engaged in general law practice for 18 years. He was elected a state of Mississippi district judge in 1970 and remained without opposition in that position until he retired in 1997. I had the pleasure of talking with Ed several times over the past few years. We rehashed some of our 1944 adventures. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; three children; four grandchildren; and five great-grandchildren. His daughter, Elsie Hendrickson, supplied his picture.

Farewell to another great ’48B. I made contact with Charles (my best-ever roommate) Brown of Shreveport, Louisiana, by telephone. Charles responded to treatment and was much better, health-wise, than he was three months ago. He spends most mornings doing vigorous physical therapy. He goes to his office at about noon and stays until quitting time. He is very pleased with the increase in the price of

Class of 1948B: The Hon. Edward Cortright Jr.

crude oil. He reported that last month was the best his company ever had.

Editor’s Note: The Class of 1948A is no longer I talked with Angus Crook of Nashville, Tensubmitting class notes. Dale Wykoff remains the nessee, by telephone. Angus was still in very point of contact for the class. good health. Since I was from Louisiana, he reported on a trip he and his wife made to New Orleans some years ago. They visited several plantation homes along the Mississippi River.

Lionel T. Wolford He then recalled attending the 1944 Thanksgiving Day football game against the University of Maryland in Roanoke. After the game, he teamed with Bill Likenhoker to visit Hollins College. He also remembered dating girls Brother Rats, at Randolph Macon, Mary Al Loth of Richmond, Virginia, sent a Baldwin, and Southern Semilengthy email, mostly recalling his asnary. His phone was not signed duty as aide to Gen. George C. working well, and I don’t Marshall ’901 in 1948. Al also reported hear well, so we had to cut that he is blessed with good health. our conversation short.

George Ramsey of Lynchburg, Virginia, Rod Kallgren of Dearborn reported that he and Harriet are “hanging and I had another great talk. in there,” health-wise. George said that One of Rod’s six sons passed even though they live nearby, they have through Lexington last month not gone to Lexington in over a year. He and stopped at VMI. He vistried to contact Lou Castellano without ited Old Barracks and tried to success. Ever since our days at Fort Sill in find the rooms that Rod lived 1949 and 1950, I have always considered in. Rod lived in a room above George and Harriet as my best friends.

Washington Arch his rat year.

Class of 1948B: Albert Loth with Gen. George C. Marshall ’901 in RichI received word that Ed Cortright of His 3rd and 2nd Class years, mond, Virginia.

Madison, Mississippi, passed away Aug. he moved to the first floor in a

1948B

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes room on the west side of barracks near where the stairs went down to the sink. He roomed with Jed White and Henry Dunbar. Rod and I traded Korean War stories again. I was in Korea from March 1951-February 1952, and Rod was there from late 1952 until the end of the war in 1953.

He was a battery commander in the 1st Observation Battalion. He used sound, flash, and radar equipment to locate enemy artillery and mortars. Rod’s battery supported I Corps and was situated on the front lines (now the DMZ) about 50 or so miles from Seoul. He particularly remembers supporting the Turkish Brigade and the British Commonwealth Division. He also remembers receiving enemy mortar rounds into his battery area. Returning to the present, Rod was expecting 35 family members to have Thanksgiving dinner with him in the dining hall of his assisted living facility.

Ed Hartman of Annapolis, Maryland, and I exchanged several emails. Ed was happy with the recent Virginia election results. He reported that he is fully retired and somewhat physically handicapped. He added that his young, 67-yearold wife takes good care of him. I replied that he was very fortunate to have such good care. I told him that my wife passed away many years ago. But I do have a 67-year-old daughter, Marie, who has her own apartment in our house. I added that she helps a lot. Ed replied, “We all need family, mostly women, to help us old goats keep moving.”

Brother rats, I hope you had a great Thanksgiving and Christmas season!

1949A Paul Munson ’87

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 1949A.

1949B

Ding Patton

These notes cover the period from Aug. 15,

2022-Issue 1

2021, to Nov. 15, 2021.

Jim Enochs and I planned to attend the dinner honoring the Institute Society on Founders Day, Nov. 11. This is a black-tie event held annually at the Marshall Hall Center for Leadership and Ethics at VMI. Members of classes are seated according to seniority, and ’49B is right up front by the podium.

I tried to let you all know of the deaths of our Brother Rats Buddy Marshall and Doug Johnson, both of whom passed away in July. Their deaths will be posted in the Taps section in this edition of the Alumni Review. Buddy had been active in class activities and attending our reunions, but Doug had been AWOL since leaving the Institute. He owned and operated the Palomino Motel and Restaurant in Sanford, North Carolina, serving the many golfers there.

I receive quarterly reports from the Alumni Association on Annual Giving, and ’49B is doing OK. We could use a few more contributors to help with the operation and scholarship activity of the Alumni Association.

For your information, in the past in order to facilitate class reunions, the class established a bank account. Greg Nelson and I are currently the signatories for the account. There has been a movement to re-establish the Cadet newspaper at the Institute, and Jim Enochs suggested that our class run an advertisement honoring the classes now in barracks. I contacted several brother rats for their opinions and responses were all positive.

Jim proceeded to design and place the ad, with costs to be reimbursed from the balance in our bank account. I recently forwarded to those on my current email list a copy of a recent edition.

I contacted Boyd Guttery recently and learned he has the COVID-19 virus for the second time in 18 months, even though he is vaccinated. When we spoke, he was still quite ill.

Linda Pruitt, Dan Smaw’s daughter-in-law, recently visited Nobbie and me and delivered another box of pictures from Dan’s VMI collection.

The VMI Archives has expressed some interest in reviewing them when the class is through with them—especially the scrapbooks. Many of us will remember that her late husband, Danny, brought Dan to our 70th Reunion, and she had told Danny she wanted to attend our next one with him. She asked me when it will be and wants to be included when it occurs.

Greg Nelson wrote in August that he and Kitty are well and have mostly recovered from recent

health problems. Kitty had broken her arm, and Greg had suffered from shingles. Greg is so helpful in getting me some information for the class notes and wrote that he had helped Buddy Marshall make the miniature grandfather clocks that were given as a favor at our 60th Reunion. I didn’t know that; a belated thanks, Greg. He said that Dan Smaw liked to say, “Old age ain’t for sissies,” but that life is good, and he gets a lot of pleasure thinking about our brother rats and our relationship over the years. I agree with him when he says, “What a great group of guys.”

Virginia Cooke called and said she volunteers around VMI, and she has a part-time neighbor who has two children in the Corps. The son is a 1st Class cadet, and the rat is a girl who loves the Rat Line. The 3rd Class cadets must not be doing it right! Virginia stays in touch, which I really appreciate.

By the time you read this, Tommy Altizer should be playing golf and tennis at his second home in Florida. Remember your brother rats freezing in the north, Tommy.

Other than Greg Nelson, Tommy Altizer, and Jim Enochs, I haven’t heard from any brother rats since the last class notes. Come on, guys; give me some help!

God bless America, VMI, and ’49B. Yours in the Bonds of VMI, Ding

1949C

Haywood France

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

1950A

Garrett Smith ’20

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 1950A.

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Class Notes

1950B

Robert F. Lynd

As I start on this issue of the Alumni Review, fall has arrived and in New Mexico—that means it’s time for the chile harvest and chile roasting. New Mexico claims to be the chile capital of the world, and its most famous product is Hatch green chile.

Hatch is the name of the little town in southwestern New Mexico, the area where these wonderful chiles are grown. At this time of year, almost every grocery store has one or two big chile roasters out in front and the smell of chiles roasting wafts through the air. And, oh, what a wonderful smell!

I can’t think of anything that’s quite like it.

What is a chile roaster? It’s a big drum about the size of a 55-gallon drum but made out of wire with a spit running through the ends. The drum is loaded with a bushel of good Hatch green chiles, and a propane-fueled flame thrower is placed about 3 feet in front of the rotating drum. The heat of the flame blisters the skin of a chile, which then makes it easier to peel the skin off.

Chiles come in a range of “hotness.” The most popular here tend to be the hot or extra hot. The names of some chiles indicate their hotness. You know jalapeño and chipotle, but what do the names Trinidad scorpion, dragon’s breath, Komodo dragon, or Carolina reaper conjure up?

And, you may ask, why am I spelling these

things “chile?” Well, spelled with an “e” at the end—that’s the pepper, itself. Chili, ending with an “i,” is the cooked product, e.g., chili con carne, chili dog. At least, that’s the way we talk about the difference here in New Mexico.

Oh, what about red chiles? The green chiles left on the vine eventually turn red. Usually, the fresh red chiles are dried and then crumbled for use. The old technique to dry was to tie fresh red chiles in a bundle called a “chile ristra.” The ristra is hung up to dry in this arid New Mexico environment, and the chiles are plucked off the ristra as needed. Today, most of these ristras are used for decoration. Red chiles are used to produce the red dye in some applications, like lipstick. The Northeast may have its beautiful leaves in the fall, but here, it means it’s chile roasting time, as well as the aspen turning gold. So, we think we have a double benefit at this time of the year.

Tom Kirk responded promptly to my request as he usually does, thankfully. “Great job in the last Review, but essentially nothing new to report for this period. Ann and I spent the summer in Vail, Colorado—able to rent our home that we built there. Still able to play golf and keep my gym visits at five days per week. Am still doing a solid workout, but nothing to cause bodily harm. Planning a trip and cruise to Italy and the Mediterranean for May. We had a wonderful summer hiking and being with old friends. We are going back for the month of October, when Ann will have some more medical work done to relieve a continuing back problem. Both of us still enjoying pretty good health for me at 92 (93 Nov. 10) and Ann, 85. This is all I have for this time. Thanks again for ‘bugging’ us to keep you advised of our doings. Take

Class of 1950B: A group of alumni gathered at the home of Jones Felvey II in 2014.

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Class of 1950B: Bob Lynd’s photo of a chile ristra in New Mexico. care and enjoy life. Many moons since days of Doc Carroll.”

Lee Chegin was my roommate for three years, and his widow, Betty, and I have kept in touch.

We recently had a nice phone conversation. She is living in San Antonio, Texas, in an independent living facility. She and Lee moved from Austin to San Antonio when he was in hospice and son John was undergoing treatment for sarcoma cancer. Betty and Lee saw many VMI folks when Lee was stationed in Washington, D.C. They visited John Berberich in Lexington (John was also a roommate of ours). Zack Gray was her dentist.

Visited Forrest Getzen (another roommate of ours), and she was reminded of Forrest saying, “Can’t you see that?” in response to some problem they were working on, and Lee’s answer was, “No, I can’t.”

Joe Kohen sent a photo from his collection.

This was a gathering of brother rats at Jones Felvey’s house in 2014. Speaking of Joe ... Jane Smallwood, Gerry’s widow, sent Joe a Christmas note last year, as I remember, in which she said she was still tap dancing. Well, she sent me a note recently saying, “Thank you for the updates, sad as they may be. I have a birthday this Saturday—93. Stopped tap dancing but still driving.”

Sorry to hear about the tap dancing, but good to know you are able to get around. Keep it up, Jane!

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Jones Felvey sent me an article from the sports section of the Aug. 21 edition of the Richmond Times-Dispatch titled, “Brotherhood kept Snyder at VMI.” Many of you know that Stone Snyder ’23, linebacker for the Big Red team, was named a spring-season consensus Football Championship Subdivision All-American with two years of eligibility remaining at the time. Quoting from the Richmond Times-Dispatch article, Snyder said, “When I committed here, I made a promise to myself that I’m going to finish it. ... this school is different than other schools. You make actual brothers for life. ... and I’m not going to leave them.”

Jones felt, and I agree (as I’m sure we all do), that the “brothers for life” concept stands paramount as one of the features that makes VMI so different.

Our brother rats stay with us forever; we continue to stay in contact. And that’s why these class notes are so important (a shameless plug, here). This is one way we can keep in touch, as I continually solicit your inputs. Thanks, Jones, for keeping us all aware of this powerful concept of brotherhood.

Jones says he had a leg operation, but now he’s back in the gym and looking forward to getting back in shape. He lives alone with his dog, Ben, and as he says, “enjoying life in the land of pleasant living.”

Heard from Harold Templeton. He said he has a lot to thank VMI for. It provided him an education in civil engineering which served him well for the rest of his career. He gained a commission in the U.S. Air Force while at VMI, and he met his wife when stationed at McClellan Air Force Base in California. All of this he attributes to VMI. Harold was born and raised in Lynchburg, Virginia, and except for the two years in the Air Force, he has spent his entire life there. While in the Air Force, he was stationed in Japan at a Strategic Air Command base, and although not a pilot, he visited Korea on several occasions during that conflict. I asked him if he had a girlfriend from Sweet Briar, and he said he did have one, but she got married when he was in Japan. (Does that “Dear John” sound familiar to anyone?) But Wanda was and has been the love of his life for 66 years.

When Harold returned to Lynchburg from his time in the Air Force, he and his father started a paving business and paved all over Virginia. At that time, he says, half the state engineers were VMI graduates, and they provided him with all sorts of help and assistance—another bonus because of his being a VMI graduate. When he retired, his son took over running the business for

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about 15 years. Now, the business has been sold to Boxley.

Because VMI has given him so much, Harold reckoned he owed VMI. At one point when he was on the Keydet Club board, he gave the club a six-figure donation. He and the president of the club at that time got into a feud, and Harold was never thanked by the club for that donation. He did get a very nice thank-you from Gen. Peay ’62, but that incident has soured Harold on giving. He did say he was the first person to donate to the 1950B Memorial Scholarship Fund and, consequently, received a very nice letter from Buck Buchanan for his contribution.

Back in August, I checked up on Randy Trappey, who lives in Lafayette, Louisiana, to see if he survived Hurricane Ida. He said, “The good Lord spared us of all of the destruction caused by Ida. If it was not for the news media, we would not have realized that a hurricane was in our area.”

Randy told me he had had an interview with the World War II museum people in New Orleans.

They were interested in how his family was involved in the war effort. Randy’s family company produced dehydrated sweet potatoes for the servicemen’s meals for the four years of World War II. When Randy was in high school, he would go to work in the plant after school—sometimes working as late as 11 p.m. In the third year, his father was selected for war effort distinction and presented a national A-Award for his agriculture contributions. He won this award for two consecutive years. So, the museum wanted to know some of the history behind these achievements.

He related some of his early life and, in particular, the years during the war. Here is a link to the video of the interview: ww2online.org/view/randolphtrappey#early-life. This interview is truly interesting and a nostalgic reminder of living in a semirural environment in the 1940s when most of us were in high school. You did a great job, Randy!

Randy says he’s getting along pretty well because he has a “guardian angel” looking after him.

Back when he was in high school, his younger brother was dating a girl. Neither of them could drive, but Randy could, and he would provide transport. He got to be a good friend of the girl.

Randy’s wife died in 2008, and the girl kind of looked after him. She has since died, but her daughters, who are still in the area, now tend to watch over him. He feels very blessed.

I’m sure most of you have seen that we lost six

of our brother rats since our last Alumni Review came out. They are Russ Morton, Aug. 3; Newt Vaughn, Sept. 4; Tom Drumwright, Oct. 1; Joe Kohen, Oct. 22; Carl Calliher, Oct. 27; and Davey Jones, Nov. 9. We send our sincere condolences to the families of those departed. As Braxton Green commented, “Gone, but not forgotten.”

Just before submission time for this article, I received a call from Carole Sue Coupland. She enjoys reading the Alumni Review and says she is getting along pretty well with just the aches typical of our ages. One of her sons, a retired Marine, has had a battle with pancreas problems and is still undergoing treatment. She keeps in touch with Ann Witt, Mary Virginia Harwood, and Anne Overman from time to time. It’s really nice to hear from our distaff side, and I wish more would contact me.

It’s admonition time again, folks. Remember, I threatened you when I sent out my plea for your input that if I didn’t hear from you, I’d be forced to relate some personal experiences. And that’s why you were subjected to all the talk about chiles. And here’s another personal factoid. The person at the Alumni Association to whom I send my Alumni Review articles has recently changed.

The new person is a good friend of Jake Berberich ’76, one of John’s sons. John was one of my roommates for three years while at VMI, and I keep in pretty regular contact with Jake. You will recall that John’s wife, Gloria, an ordained minister, served as chaplain at our reunions. Yes, it is a small world. Now, to prevent these personal notes from happening again, please talk to me by phone or email or even send me a note via the USPS. Let us know that you survived the pandemic. Or tell us how, after you graduated, you stopped Godzilla from destroying the world. Or some of your cadet day escapades.

And here’s another thing. I have tried to call some of you, and when I dial the number I have in the roster provided me by the Alumni Agencies, I get, “This number is no longer in service.”

You really need to keep your phone number up to date, and that goes for your email address, as well, if that’s changed in the last few years. If you’re living with your kids or in a retirement location, your old phone number may be out of service, and you can be contacted through their phone or their email. Let’s have it! Also, I have called several folks and left a voicemail with my name, number, and why I’m calling, but I never get a call back.

I have called the same people several times and

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Class of 1951: Carl Carstens, Roger Little, Bob Nolley, and Hobart Richey.

Class Notes

68

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes never get a response. Come on, folks; talk to me!

I began this article at the beginning of September, and now it’s the end of November. (Here comes another personal note.) For Thanksgiving, we went to Albuquerque to be with our son who lives there and our daughter who flew in from New Jersey. To get there from Roswell, you drive straight north for 140 miles to Clines Corners.

En route, you pass three trees and maybe six or eight other cars, several antelope herds, and a rest stop with a sign at the restroom building saying, “Watch for rattlesnakes.” At Clines Corner, you turn left (west), and for another 60 miles, you speed along the interstate to the big city. Our kids planned excitement for our several days there— making rounds to view retirement homes. Hope your Thanksgiving was as happy as ours—or happier.

And now it’s time to say goodbye to all our com-pan-y, M-I-C-K-E-Y. Wait! Wrong sign off. Let’s try again. ¡Hasta próxima vez!

1951

There is currently no class agent for the Class of 1951. If you would like to be the class agent, please contact Norma Robinson at 800/444-1839, ext. 243.

1952

James M. Mecredy

Today is Aug. 12. I have just submitted the class notes you will receive in November. The current notes will be submitted in November, which you will receive in February 2022. Our 70th Reunion will be April 25-26, 2022, with our headquarters at Hampton Inn Lexington-Historical District (formerly Col Alto). If you have not already done so, contact the hotel directly at (540) 463-2233 to make your reservation. Identify yourself as a member of the “VMI Class of 1952” block.

On Aug. 14, Jim Wiley, Zeke Finney, and Wilcox Ruffin attended the farewell service honoring our Brother Rat Army Wellford. VMI was represented by Cadet Addison Hagan ’24, who presented the colors to Barbara. She and her family

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appear to be doing well. Flowers from ’52 were beautiful and appreciated. Some days later, Barbara called me to thank the brother rats for the flowers. She had taken them home, and they were still beautiful over a week later.

Vann Voudreaux is still jogging at age 91 and is doing 45 minutes a day. He experienced some roof damage in the hurricanes, but all’s well— waiting for this year’s weather surprise.

Rich Falwell attached a picture of his wife, Nancy, and himself just after his 92nd birthday in June. Rich writes, “I thought I would share this with you. Now you know what I look like when you send me information about the class doings.

My legs have given out, and I use a walker to keep from falling.”

Ann Carman (Lee Rogers’ widow) wrote from the state of Maine to thank me for “the bright and cheery card from VMI!” Ann writes: “It’s hard for me to believe I’m 83, and I keep wondering how I could be so fortunate—in good health, with a wonderful husband (John), under a roof, and with food to eat. The world is in such a hard place now.

I hope you and Lucette have been able to stay well and safe from the virus. We had both Pfizer shots and may take the booster but, meanwhile, wear masks in public places and just pray that Maine’s rise in the caseload will begin to go down.”

Harriet Redman wrote about her recent move to North Carolina: “I am settling into my new home here at The Pines at Davidson. This beautiful community is nestled in a wooded area with lots of trees and lovely landscaping. I have a large picture window in my room that overlooks a walkway and garden area. There are several butterfly bushes outside my window that are attracting lots of different butterflies, and an occasional hummingbird also feeds from the bushes. I also have a bird feeder outside my window, and I really enjoy seeing all the different North Carolina birds that come. My daughter, Laurie, and her family live only a few minutes away, and we get to visit several times a week. Unfortunately, we have experienced a few quarantines due to COVID-19 which puts a damper on visits and activities, but we all make the best of it.”

I just heard from Ernestine Bridgforth that Austin Bridgforth fell and fractured his hip. Her email to me follows. Both Austin and Ernestine obviously were having a tough time. “The morning of the storm Ida, Austin fell and fractured his hip. At first, I was not sure if it was broken and, with the pending storm, tried to just keep him comfortable.

The power went out that night, and our built-in generator took over. Next morning, our neighbor doctor came over and said to call EMS and take him to hospital. Due to the amount of COVID-19 cases, I was not allowed to enter. Sat out in the car for several hours and finally went home after leaving my phone number. That evening received a phone call saying the doctor would be calling for consent to operate and do a partial hip replacement. Due to COVID-19 and storm curfew that evening, I had to wait by the phone. The surgery was successful. That was Monday night.

I was only allowed to see him the next afternoon, Tuesday. Wednesday morning at 7:00, my carbon monoxide detector started sounding upstairs. I grabbed a robe and ran downstairs to the outside and dialed 911. The hazard people came and said I was one lucky lady. According to their detectors, the house was full of fumes at the highest levels.

They turned off the generator and aired out the house with huge fans. Due to heat advisory and no power, they, in a very caring manner, said I had to vacate the house and only go back in for a few minutes to get a few clothes, etc. I have wonderful neighbors. Stayed across the street that night and power came back on during the night. That same day, I had to make decisions on moving Austin to rehab or skilled nursing. Opted for skilled nursing. Moved him there, where he has been for two weeks. He is receiving excellent care where he is.

Class of 1952: Rich Falwell and his wife, Nancy.

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Class Notes Due to a patient testing positive there, the facility is now on lockdown, and I cannot go see him. He has several health issues.”

I called Austin Oct. 27, and he says he is improving. He has received cards and notes from his brother rats while he was isolated. As a side note, the generator company moved the generator 25 feet away from the house. A photo from Austin’s 90th birthday is included here to remind him and us of a joyous time.

Andy Dickinson, after learning of Austin Bridgforth’s recent hip fracture and surgery, recalled their rat year when he and Austin roomed together. Andy writes: “His cousin married my sister, and we had met before that frightening day at VMI when we matriculated at [Memorial] Hall. In line with my best childhood friend, Jack Gladstone, and Austin as roommates, we needed one more for the four to a room. So, here comes a uniformed, chauffer-driven touring car right up to the line in which we were standing, and out pops none other than Frank Osgood Butler, heir to Butler Aviation and the Butler Paper Company! Lacking any roommates, he agreed to join us. Frank and his mother had been freshly driven to Lexington from Chicago and made this grand entrance to VMI, an introduction that, for Frank, would prove to be a painful one for the ensuing life of a rat. That being said, he was tough as nails, and we never heard him complain!”

Sandra Pittman called to let me know that Dick Valack died Thursday, Oct. 15. It was very sudden. He fell and broke his hip. As the hospital prepared him for surgery, they discovered a damaged heart valve that caused his death. His funeral was Nov. 5. Andy Dickinson, Sandra Pittman, Bill Ruffin, and Zeke Finney attended the funeral.

Red, white, and yellow flowers were included from the Class of ’52.

Andy Dickinson wrote a summary of the funeral service. “The funeral for Dick Valack was graveside Friday, Nov. 5, in Cape Charles. VMI folks in attendance included Sharon Pittman, Sarah and Zeke Finney, and Mary and Andy Dickinson. The service was well attended with not only neighbors but a number of friends from Dick and Mary Catherine’s church in Virginia Beach, where they had been active for years.

Dick was a faithful member of the choir, carrying forward his vocal discipline cultivated under Col. Dillard. Richmond friends included cousins of Dick’s from the Ukrop family. Many spoke with moving emotion about their love and respect for

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Class of 1952: Austin Bridgforth’s 90th birthday.

Dick, describing him as a ‘big man with a big heart!’ Skeptical at first, Dick became a staunch supporter of his adopted town, Cape Charles, where he found many volunteer opportunities and many new friends. He will be sorely missed.”

Dick was 89—the youngest member of our class. He was the husband of Mary Catherine Ames Valack and a resident of Cape Charles, Virginia. Dick was a native of Brackenridge, Pennsylvania. He was the son of the late Stephen Valack and Anna Ukrop Valack. He was a United States Air Force veteran, graduate of VMI, and member of First Baptist Church of Virginia Beach. In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by three children, Margaret McCoy Sitter of Brookfield, Illinois; Catherine Ann Smith of Darien, Illinois; and Richard Steven Valack II (Amanda) of New Orleans, Louisiana, as well as four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Russ McCarthy writes that he is recovering from losing his balance seven months ago. He still needs a roll-a-walker. Russ is still exercising and walking despite his slowdown. Also, he is expecting to attend our reunion by private jet instead of commercial airline and is bringing Patricia and his grandson, Brian, a former Navy veteran.

The Lord willing, I will see some of you at our 70th Reunion in April Jim

1953

William C. Noell Jr.

Brother Rats and Our Widows: We lost our BR Dave Rice back in June in Gloucester. After Dave’s retirement, he and his wife moved to Kinsale from Oakton after living many years in Hamlet, North Carolina. Interestingly, roommate Bill Atwill is from that tiny town of Kinsale on the Northern Neck of Virginia, and roommate Pete Cox used to give Bill a hard time about the writings in the local weekly newspaper that Bill received. It was my understanding that Dave suffered from Alzheimer’s for several years. This past quarter, Jim Morris’ wife, Marilyn, passed away. Marilyn suffered with multiple sclerosis for 41 years, yet she still came to VMI for functions and football gatherings until a few years ago. I have known Marilyn and visited with her for many years—way back when they lived in Deep Creek section of Virginia Beach, and I was in Portsmouth in the late ’60s. She was a fighter, never gave up, and always gave a good and pleasant face to all in her presence. Jim was very dedicated to Marilyn and always tried to

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes do his best to give her very good care over all (B’ham) game, where VMI won 46-45. John Lee Ridge’s parents and sister here at home during these years. I talked to Jim the other day, and he came up from Port Orange, Florida, via Norfolk, Parents Weekend. As for football, of course, we says he is “doing fine.” He sounded good on the to get Tracy. This was his first VMI game since still attend University of Tennessee home football games, but not all of them this year. Our last phone. As we all know, and most feel, we have graduation. He got to visit with Jay Williams approached or are approaching the ripe age of 90. ’83, who he played organized baseball with from one for the year being the No. 1 Georgia game In regard to this, Ronnie Haywood’s daughter, grammar school and into the Churchland High next week. We also attend all of the Rockbridge Nancy, gave a big 90th birthday party for Ronnie School team. We see our adopted Keydet, Ridge County High School Friday night games—home in October, held at Sam’s Seafood Restaurant in Clark ’23, from Knoxville, fairly regularly. His and away—since our grandson is the quarterback, Hampton, with more than 30 family and friends to-be Ring Figure date, Ansley Tuck, stayed thus football keeps us on the road between Knoxattending. Regretfully, Judy and I were in Tennes- at our house for the homecoming dance week- ville and Lexington—five hours/300 miles each see at the time and could not attend. Parker Cross end. We had a very nice and lengthy visit with way. All this traveling caused us to give up our 2008 Tahoe with 237,000 miles on Laalso had to send his regrets; however, bor Day for a downsized SUV, which Warren and Win Koontz were able I still miss, but it was best for all the to attend. Jack Trigg has now moved late-night interstate driving we do. Now into a condo in Birmingham, not too that fall and basketball season are here, far from his and Peachey’s past home things should be saner with season tickin Mountain Brook, from which he has ets only to VMI basketball. “downsized.” He said he did a lot of As you can note, there is not much renovation before moving in and is very news here from you BRs out there comfortable in his new quarters not too somewhere having a good time in refar from where he used to live. tirement (?), and I hope not ailing too Judy and I attended granddaughter much. So, without your input, I have Addie Jay’s family weekend at Christopher Newport University in Septem- Class of 1953: More than 30 family, friends, alumni, and former filled the space with what is happening ber, staying with granddaughter Sandy Sam’s Seafood Restaurant employees attended Ronnie Hay- with Judy and me so that the notes are wood’s 90th birthday celebration Oct. 16. Guests included Warand family in Newport News (Old Rap ren Koontz and his wife, Win, as well as Chris and Robin Zachwie- not just medical and passing of BRs. So lastly, I hope you all had a great Taphouse-Warsaw). Addie Jay is now ja, parents of Rachel Zachwieja ’21.

Thanksgiving and your Halloween was a junior and a member of the Phi Mu fun. For ours, our daughter, Jennifer, sorority. On the way home, we did not and one of her best friends once again have time this trip to stop in Williamshad their annual Halloween party at burg to visit with Ingrid and Ed Brown our house for family and friends. Why but will next time. Ingrid is an accomour house? She lives in the country, and plished violin artist and played in the our area is great for trick-or-treat, and Williamsburg Symphony for several of course, we enjoy seeing all the kids years in the past. She was also a memcoming in their costumes, as well as ber of their board for very many years. having good party dinner. Plus, Judy and As mentioned in the past, they now I only have to be guests and visit. Next live in a very nice retirement comis Thanksgiving, with a full house—all plex just south of Williamsburg. This four upstairs rooms taken and our Lexmonth, Henry Atwill ’18, roommate ington family here, plus the Friday after, Bill Atwill’s grandson, and his girlour oyster/seafood feast with up to 30 friend, Annabelle Carrington, spent family members attending. a Sunday afternoon with us when he Class/Lexington trivia: The new was here for a friend’s wedding. They store, Downtown Books, is owned by live in Norfolk and work in Suffolk.

Page Williams (Jay Williams ’83), Annabelle’s father, Taz ’72, is the which is on Nelson Street across from Class of ’72 and lives in White Stone, the State Theater and next to where the Jack Townes’ old stomping grounds.

Southern Inn restaurant was located in Judy and I have attended several VMI our days at the Institute. What is special football games this fall. It has been about this bookstore is that it has a spegreat to watch. My third son, John Lee Class of 1953: Family and friends of Judy and Bill Noell gather to cial section designated for local, W&L, W. Noell ’84, and his girlfriend, Tracy celebrate Halloween. and VMI writers. Thus, Page now has Howell, were here for the Samford

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Class Notes

Class of 1953: Bob Cheatham with his newest great-granddaughter, Bebe Gail.

The baby is named for Bob’s late wife.

the book. Bromo, after he retired from the Army surgeon general position at West Point, became a physician surveyor for the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations for seven years. During his time with JCAHO, he performed many surveys of hospitals that had experienced incidents, mishaps, and catastrophic outcomes, known as “sentinel events.” From this background after retiring from JCAHO, Bromo wrote his series of mystery/medical thriller novels, all including “sentinel event” in the title.

Two were located at actual sites—VMI and West Point. Then we have Ursula Hauser, BR Fred Hauser’s wife, who wrote two volumes of “Memories of VMI.” If you recall, Ursula solicited stories from all the alumni for her books and received some very good stories, now found in her two books. Included is my story of Bill Nelson and me greasing the railroad tracks behind the chemistry building with mess hall butter. You can find Page’s bookstore at downtownbookslexva.com.

Class of 1954: Ollie Hux’s friend/pet.

1954

J.M. Perry Archer

Class of 1953: Judy and Bill Noell with Annabelle Carrington and Henry Atwill ’18, grandson of Bill Noell’s roommate, Dr. Bill Atwill. books on hand published by one BR and two by a BR’s wife. Our 1st Class sandwich concession entrepreneur (along with Norris Kantor), Jules “Bromo” Seletz’s book, “Sentinel Event, Southern Style” (2008—seventh in the series) is on hand for purchase. If you recall, at a past reunion, Bromo had copies available for purchase. This book takes place at VMI, and he spent a week staying with Judy and me as he assembled info from various Institute members for

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Greetings: I received word that BR Bill Park passed away June 28, 2020. He lived in Denver, North Carolina, and died at age 87. Bill was married to Lucile Park for 50 years. He and Lucile have a daughter, Kathy Hales, and Bill has a sister, Desiree Park. Bill was the retired chief of the Single-Family Mortgage Credit Branch of the Department of Housing and Urban Development. He left VMI after his 3rd Class year and served two years in the U.S. Army, after which he spent his career with HUD, becoming chief of the Single Family Mortgage Branch in 1980.

His favorite hobby was riding horseback, and he enjoyed that all his life, riding with his daughter, Kathy, until his health curtailed that activity.

Kane Michael Staiger, great-grandson of BR Tom Kane and Mercedes, was recently born to Liliana Kane Staiger and John Staiger. He looks to be as personable as Tom was—perhaps another fan of the Four Freshmen someday.

Until next time.

Perry

Class of 1954: Bill Park.

Class of 1954: Tom Kane’s great-grandson, Kane Michael Staiger, as a newborn.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1955

Barney Lawless Read Hanmer

Thanks for your responses for the mighty Class of 1955. It seems that a lot of us are on the gim, so if we can get an off-year reunion in spring 2022, it will be a small affair, probably without too much assistance from the Institute. Helen has suggested that instead of our parading with the Corps that we might get a class parade float—maybe a deuceand-a-half—and ride through the parade artillerystyle. I had asked how many of you could get from the reviewing stand to Jackson Arch and got very few positive responses. Both Helen and I are also having problems getting around, and I’m walking on a cane whenever I’m out of the house.

One positive response came from our former super class agent Fielding (aka Moose) Tyler via note from Betsey, to wit: “We are fine. Getting to the gym three days a week, which is working wonders for Fielding. We just had a chair lift installed which has turned into a great wonder.

Fielding is adapting, and so are the children from across the street when they come over to ride!

As for the reunion, Fielding says yes. His trusty chauffeur will get him to Lexington. He says he can make it from the reviewing stand to Jackson Arch with his trusty walker.”

Frank Brooke is interested in a spring reunion if it takes place in the last half of April, as he will be at Lake Gaston then and not in Florida. He prefers to stand in the courtyard and give the Old Yell.

Not much news from Jacksonville. He enjoys watching VMI football and basketball on ESPN+.

He states that his local VMI alumni chapter is active again after COVID-19, and they have an oyster roast and Christmas party coming up! He cautions us to take care.

Sherry Sidney says that April 2022 sounds good for a reunion. She’s sure Joe Moore and Doris will come, too. Joe and his son, Joe Jr., came to visit her in Palm Springs at the end of September.

She says they are still walking and having fun—a

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little older and aging like fine wine. She says she has made several trips to the wine country during the pandemic. She claims we need happy hour wine time. She notes that she and Jack loved to go up the coast of California every year—lots of good memories of her wonderful husband, Jack Canby Dautel says that as far as a reunion is concerned, Lexington is a bridge too far. I replied to him that Dr. Bob Bowden notes that “as we mature,” the bridges get further apart.

Roby Thompson says spring 2022 will be tough for him to make, and he would personally prefer to wait it out for our regular time of 2025 when we’d have Institute support.

Leon Cock says to count him out for any reunion. He has not seen any brother rats since our 45th Reunion in 2000, and he does not want to see how old some of us have gotten.

Chuck Ritchey says he doesn’t think he’ll be able to come to a reunion. He now lives in Dallas, Texas, and he would have to fly. Traveling from the airport to Lexington would present a problem since he doesn’t drive anymore, even though he does maintain a driver’s license. He says he thinks of others of us from time to time and extends an invitation to visit if we’re in the Dallas area.

Ben Semmes says, reluctantly, that he now lives in an assisted living home near Boston, and in caring for his wife, he cannot neglect his caretaker duties.

Bill Cridlin says he hopes to attend our modified reunion but does not believe a function on the “hill” is necessary. The main reason for attendance is to see brother rats and dine with them. A onenight stand with minimal planning and returning home the next afternoon. The main attraction is a ’55 social affair. He would avoid a parade and related trip to barracks due to physical limitations.

After all, he notes, the Institute might remember our little evening disturbance during our rat year and request another short performance.

Tom Williamson is all in favor of a reunion.

I went out to Ashby Ponds nearby and had a visit with Bill (aka “Pop”) Kays. He’s pretty well unable to travel due to Parkinson’s, but we had a long visit. After his U.S. Marine Corps stint, he spent a career in the telephone business, traveling around the country and winding up in the D.C. area. Outside of that, Bill was active in the Alzheimer’s prevention and treatment activity. We also serenaded the nearby residents with our own rendition of “Far beyond the hills of Blacksburg.”

Joe Cestaro sent a long message which said he

would love to see us have an off-year reunion in Lexington, and that he would definitely attend.

His wife passed away in June 2019, after suffering many years with Alzheimer’s disease, and he understands why it’s called “the long goodbye.”

He hopes to live long enough to see the first person cured from this horrible disease. He notes that Annapolis resident Bob Ragan’s wife, Gail, died from some form of dementia. Joe’s daughter, Debbie, said that if the three VMI roommates came down with the same disease, she would have blamed the water supply in Lexington. Joe has lived at Falcon’s Landing, the Air Force retirement community in Sterling, Virginia, since 2019 and has enjoyed the new friends and activities.

Joe also met a lovely lady (Jan) at a Nats baseball game just before the pandemic began. She was a Marine wife and schoolteacher, living in the same community, and was a big help in getting him out of the COVID-19 doldrums. Joe still helps his son in his prosthetic/orthotic practice in Winchester on a limited part-time basis. He says he’s told he is the oldest still-practicing practitioner in the profession. Joe still plays golf, but his tennis has slowed down due to his shoulder replacement surgery in 2020. Also, for the past 10 years, he has been a docent at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Aerospace Museum near Dulles Airport. Since he can’t fly anymore, he gets his vicarious thrills by showing visitors the aircraft artifacts and telling them wild flying stories.

Ronnie Bryan notes that we have lost many BRs in the past couple of years and that our ranks are getting thin—not sure we could muster many for a mini reunion. Ron says he could make it and would be proud to march with Moose’s flag representing the great Class of 1955. Ron has also sort of become our wandering observer and reporter during his visits here and there. He and Nita went to Charleston, South Carolina, for their granddaughter’s wedding and also saw Bob and Clara Rennicks, dined with them, and played nine holes of golf with Bob. He says they are doing well and that Bob is still active in tennis and golf. He and Nita missed seeing Frank and Judy Brooke at their lake home but conversed by email with Frank, who further notes they are doing well despite the usual age-related aches and pains. He visited with Bob and Jane Bowden in Sandbridge.

He talked by phone to Rota and Dusty Rhodes, who are still living in Lexington. He saw Bill and Pattie Davidson at a football game at VMI but is sorry to report that Bill has terminal cancer, is

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Class of 1956: Leslie Belsha, David Blair, James Dillard, Ronald Fischer, Donald Heslep, Arthur Jennette, Charles Jundt, Peter McCrary, G. Mundy, William Nelson, Donald Nyman, Richard Smith, and John Stone.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes taking no treatment, and is putting his remaining time in God’s hands. He saw Bill Cridlin driving on Parham Road, tried to get his attention by blowing his horn and tailgating him, but got no response; Bill probably thought some nut was harassing him.

Bill Nolley writes: “Yes, I would attend a spring reunion in 2022 and will help arrange, God willing. I can travel alone, but my son, Class of ’80, probably would accompany me. Yes, I can still walk to Jackson Arch, but how about golf carts!

We definitely would want to plan a lunch at the restaurant on House Mountain. I will call you soon and discuss. My brother was at VMI for his 70th, and he said the staff worked wonders. Very good.”

Taps: This is a tough part to write. I fear I miss a few or repeat a few, so if my report is not accurate, please let me and/or the VMI Alumni Agencies know. Larry Price, Jim McManaway, John Morace, Ron Kincer, Morty Bregman, and Jim Ramsey.

1956

Randolph S. Knipp

’56 Brother Rats, Families, and Friends of ’56 Brother Rats, I regret not being able to attend the reunion this year, but as I will note, the reports of the event were complimentary. Julie and I both came down with the beast COVID-19 in the weeks before the reunion and felt it best not to expose anyone since it was the end of our quarantine period.

After my acceptance of the lofty office of class agent ’56, I received a nice note of congratulations from Bill Stokes, whom I see on my occasional visit back to my hometown of Lynchburg, and who is in good health. Guys, it has been a long time, and I am more than a little out of touch with so many!

Jack Prizzi expressed great appreciation for the work that Pete McCrary did on the reunion memorial service. Pete represented the class extremely well and is due many kudos!

Apparently, Jack and Pete collaborated on the Doc Hardee story, and Jack says that he and others were sent a copy of a note from Jane

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Roach (Jon Roach’s widow). The Doc Hardee story was published in the reunion issue of the Cadet. I was interviewed for the story, as was Jimmie Thurmond. Jimmie roomed next door to Doc, and his room was the room where most of the overnight work was done.

Jack and wife Serafina are both healthy and active. Serafina still works as a one-on-one aide for special needs children at a local elementary school, and Jack just renewed his real estate license but ponders whether he really wants to reenter the business world. (Time to enjoy the spoils, Jack! My take.) Jack has an anecdote about an encounter he had at Lowe’s with a clerk, who noted Jack’s red VMI cap. “The clerk asked, ‘What’s with the VMI cap? Did you go there?’ When I answered affirmatively, he remembered his own visit to VMI and asked me, ‘Is the stuffed horse still there?’ He was struggling to remember but knew that it was Stonewall Jackson’s horse. I responded with, ‘Traveller,’ and he had instant recall then.” It is not often at the eastern end of Long Island that Jack encounters anyone who recognizes VMI. It was particularly good to get a note from Dick Smith, who offered his thanks to me for taking on the job. He is in Lake Gaston, Virginia, a home he built in 1994 (next to the cabin his father built in 1964). He retired from the Naval Facilities Engineering Command and worked as building inspector for Brunswick County, Virginia, for 18 years. His companion of 30 years is Honey Rector from Sussex County. Dick is in good health and plays some golf (nine holes) weekly and does his own shopping and meal preparation. A really interesting sidenote apropos of our times is that he donated his home to VMI as a charitable gift but retaining life rights.

Also heard from Jimmy Mann’s widow, Betty Mann, who was looking for Pete McCrary’s address to express her appreciation for the “personalized and well-planned memorial service,” apparently reported to her by Col. Phillips ’87, VMI chaplain, who said it was the most meaningful he had ever witnessed (high praise, indeed). Pete shared with me the story behind his effort to set up the memorial service, and I can assure all that it was not a simple effort! We all owe him our thanks and admiration for a job well done! He expressed particular appreciation for the help of two ladies in the VMI Alumni Agencies, Corri Sensabaugh and Natalie Carpenter ’21, for their help in setting

up the service. Pete received high marks for the memorial service he organized for our departed brother rats, the service which can be viewed at cadetnewspaper.org/video/.

Cadets who participated in the service were David Gibson ’22, Sam McCrary ’23, Joseph Spears ’22, David Foster ’22, Thomas Wetherell ’22, and Charles Telford ’22. Note that all were “roll callers” for the 48 deceased and grandsons of BRs except Wetherell ’22, who was not a roll caller and whose father is Ed Wetherell ’88.

As a side note, Pete and I had a couple of long conversations in which he recounted his experience in arranging this event. It is sufficient to say that Pete had a lot of dedication to complete this task!

Dick Justice also wrote indicating that life at this point is, for him, “mundane.” Not uncommon at our age, but he does promise that if anything of interest does occur, he will let us know!

I got a call from Bo Makelim telling me that his father, Bill Makelim, passed away in February. Bill attended William and Mary, then came to VMI, and ultimately graduated from the University of Virginia. Bill published an unsanctioned magazine, Harlequin, while at UVA. He lived life fully. Bill was buried with military rites in Illinois. Bill’s obituary appears in this issue of the Alumni Review.

Russ Wiltshire suffered a hemorrhagic stroke last Christmas and was hospitalized until midJanuary. He and his wife, Margarete, had tickets to go to the reunion, but he and his grandson whom he planned to take were also struck with COVID-19, and they all had to cancel. Russ remained in the Army after graduating from VMI; married Margarete; served in Vietnam, Korea, and Germany; had “quasi-diplomatist” tours with the America, Britain, Canada, and Australia Standardization Group and NATO; earned two master’s degrees and a doctorate, retired in 1995 as a full colonel; and moved to Sarasota.

(Russ feels he was the “goat” of his class and wants to show he flowered and indeed has the papers to prove it!) When in Alexandria, he was active in the alumni chapter and held offices, including several terms as president and a member of the alumni board.

Ed Thompson tells me he still enjoys remarkably good health, even to hunting in South Dakota and golfing! He and his wife, Leslie, have been married for 31 years and still smile and speak. (I assume more than occasionally!) He was kind to

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Class Notes note that I missed out on the reunion.

George Clark writes that he and Joyce are doing OK, and he looks forward to awakening each morning. Not without issues, as Joyce does have kidney and heart concerns, but she manages well. George has had hernia surgery but realizes this is that time of life.

Price Wingate and his wife, Mary, live in Roanoke, Virginia. After graduation, he did three years in the Air Force and then 36 years with ExxonMobil. Mary worked for MetLife. Both are retired now, of course, and have downsized from the home of many years on Smith Mountain Lake with all the boating and all that goes with that “hole in the water.” They had six children and now a bunch of grandchildren and great-grandchildren! Price notes that his roommates (Bernie Bossard, Larry Frase, and Al Schwan) have all passed away, and he lost his son to fungal meningitis. Sign of our time!

Had a nice but brief note from David Blair, who laments that his sailing days are over, compliments of arthritis and age. He stays active, although Anne (wife of 62 years) thinks he’s nuts, since he has volunteered to start training as a dog walker for the local animal shelter.

Ann Shibut (widow of John Shibut, who died in 1998) says she is getting along well and that their children are, as well. Anne is donating John’s class ring to the VMI Museum, which will happily accept it. Their two sons have done well. The older (graduate of W&M) is retired, and the younger (graduate of VPI) works in communications for Estes Express Lines. They have three granddaughters. The eldest (graduate of James Madison) is married, is a financial manager for a Toyota dealership, and has a 15-year-old adopted daughter. The middle granddaughter (graduate of Georgia Tech) is married and a computer engineer for Google. The youngest (a 2020 graduate of VCU) is with Riggs-Ward designing museum exhibits.

I do not have any pictures to include and encourage you all to consider sending some to me for the next issue. Unfortunately, I volunteered for this post too late to make an entry into the 2021-Issue 4 Alumni Review. I apologize for that but encourage all to send me info on their lives and the status of our classmates and families! I will do my darnedest to keep up with correspondence and class notes, but I am a poor, unfortunate electrical engineer who is struggling!

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1957

George Sydnor Jr. Howard Lawrence

The Virginia Military Institute. An uncommon purpose! We start this first issue of a new year, 2022, with a statement from Maj. Gen. Wins ’85, superintendent: The “One Corps–One VMI: A Unifying Action Plan” will focus on these five outcomes: 1.) Honor, 2.) Diversity and Inclusion, 3.) VMI Brand, 4.) Competing and Winning, and 5.) One VMI. Honor: The VMI Honor Code must continue to be a way of life for each and every cadet and all alumni.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: VMI must ensure that every cadet, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, or nationality, feels a part of the VMI legacy.

The VMI Brand: The outward face of VMI should be built around young leaders of character who exemplify honor, civility, and service above self.

Competing and Winning: VMI cadets must compete to win in the classroom, on the drill field, and on the field of competition.

One VMI: VMI’s strength is in its diversity of experiences, thought, abilities, and backgrounds.

No single cadet’s challenge is greater than another’s. It is through the reliance on their fellow cadets that the Corps succeeds.

With that being said, we return first to the team caller reports that were not contained in the last issue of class notes due to space limitations and begin with team 2.

Drummond Ayres was unable to make his assigned calls due to “crises of the moment,” so Ben jumped into the breach to contact Bob Christopher, Wiley Clapp, Dick Collier, Bill Colvin, Don Coombs, Clay Coupland, Dave Davenport, Tony DiCesare, and Kenny Dickinson.

Bob said he and wife Susan were “doing well, considering,” although he has had a number of

surgical procedures performed on his feet which may prevent him from attending the reunion.

“Only time will tell.” Ben had a nice chat with Wiley, who related that he had suffered a broken hip a number of months ago, had a rough time of it, and was still in the recovery stage. He recalled the old Marine axiom: “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.” Another good chat, this time with Dick, the class’ “pink energizer bunny” just “keeps going on and on from one building project to another,” although he did confide in George

Class of 1957: Retired Marine Corps Col. Bill Huffcut and his wife, Betty, with Ann and P.D. Phillips Jr. in Destin, Florida, in October 2021.

Class of 1957: George Sydnor and Dick Collier at the Davidson football game in October 2021.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Sydnor at a recent home football game that he was considering slowing his pace down somewhat. Dick said that all continues to be well with him and wife Sarah and that they will be at the reunion. Bill reported he and the family were well, although wife Helen had suffered a fall that resulted in a broken hip, the reason for which will prevent him from attending the reunion. Don, the gim captain, said he and wife Judy were enjoying their “adopted” city of Roanoke. Don has terrorized the local golf courses, it being said that he can hit a golf ball like the proverbial gorilla. (Class agent’s note: So, Don, do you putt the same way?) Nick Kallelis related an interesting note on Don, to wit, it was a dark and wintry night in February, and Don was on guard duty. He could not get warm and shook from the cold. He finally realized that he had put on Ray MacKay’s overcoat instead of his own—Don being 6 feet tall and Ray being 5 feet on his tiptoes—well, you get the picture; the sleeves were at his elbows and the coat was only down to his waist. No wonder Don felt like he was freezing to death. Clay, our class preeminent waterfowl decoy carver, engaged Ben in a long call saying he enjoyed barracks life so much that he stayed for an extra year. He related that his and wife Linda’s two children live within 10 minutes of their condo, three grandchildren are in North Carolina—two teach school with the other nearing degree time, and their youngest grandchild just happens to be in elementary school right next door. They have survived the COVID-19 era staying safe and sane. Clay ended by saying he would be at the 65th, really liked the team calling program, and would like to assist with BR phone calls. Ditto for Tony, who said he would like to volunteer for the team caller program when there was a slot available; he, too, will be at the 65th.

K.K. was, well, K.K., what else do you say other than to acknowledge the fact that Webster has decided to publish a revised dictionary version of the English language to be named “the Dickinson abridged version of the English language.” (Class agent’s note: What an acknowledgement, Kenny; you have worked tirelessly on this since day one.

Congratulations, our good man.) Ben further noted that since Kenny was totally computer ignorant, wife Katie must handle his reports, and thus in the future, the caller token of appreciation in the form of a bottle of whiskey will be redirected to her.

Team 4: John Whittle. “Stud” was in charge to check in with Bob Garrett, Bill Gay, Clint Glover, Lionel Hancock, Milt Hargrave, Kirk

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Hubbard, and Bill Huffcut. Bob could not be reached, but John remembers him well from their time together as roommates our rat year. All was good with Bill and wife Frances; no special needs at present, although he admits that “Father Time” waits for no one and marches on in its inexorable pace. He plans on being at our reunion in April, only two months away by the time this edition hits the street in February. Clint indicated that he, too, plans on attending the reunion remarking, I’ll be “present and accounted for.” The class brother rats calling program has been very meaningful to him, and he looked forward to reconnecting with many in April. Lionel recalled a favorite barracks story of “a brother rat who periodically filled his mouth with lighter fluid and went around barracks knocking on doors, upon which once opened, he would expel the fluid over a cigarette lighter flame—a human flame thrower.” (Class agent’s note: That person was none other than Ronnie Kaye, aka the great white owl). Lionel went on to say he and wife Carole Lee were enjoying their five grandchildren and their families, as well as connecting with his roommates Dick Collier and Fritz Scholz. Milt was his usual exuberant self, regaling John over his many “replacement parts,” which he termed were the price you pay for extensive “repairs and maintenance.” When asked whether he planned on attending the reunion, his response was a loud “Definitely.” Kirk echoed the same sentiment when recently visiting John and wife Carole: “I will definitely be at the reunion.”

Bill H. reported that he and wife Betty were in relatively good shape. They will be at the reunion, although he, like all of us, has been concerned about “the inquisition” targeted at VMI this past year to which Howard Lawrence penned: “Today, Aug. 20, some 500 new cadets matriculated to the Institute, and the soon-to-be Class of 2025 will begin to germinate. Several days ago, I ran into a top-rated Virginia businessman and philanthropist who is well connected in state education and government circles. He told me, ‘The battle for VMI is over, and the Institute came out of the whole mess very well.’ This guy is a UVA grad who has given millions to state universities, hospitals, and art museums. He likes VMI for its very special mission and high standards. ... I think we can be very proud of our school; we are still a very special place. ... Go Keydets. The Institute will never die. ... People in Virginia today are more proud of VMI than ever before. And, yes, we were so fortunate to have General Peay ’62 all

those years; no superintendent can ever match his record. However, like us, he likely misunderstood the severity of political ‘sea change’ ... the perfect storm ... VMI faced and weathered. It is time to move on. The Honor Code, high academic standards, the regimental and class systems, and the Rat Line remain ‘alive and well.’”

Team 6: Paul Phillips. P.D. reported on his list that included Tiger Locke, Carl LeBourdais, Monroe Levine, Curly Mason, Ron McManus, Joe Moody, and Bill Moore. The Tiger indicated he was doing well and hoped to attend the reunion but was unsure at the time due to several medical issues his wife, Carol, was contending with. Carl, Mo, and Ron could not be reached, but voicemails were left for each sending greetings from their brother rats, hoping all were well and would be in our reunion ranks. Curly said all was well with him and wife Darrel and that they would definitely be at the 65th, albeit he with a cane. He still has fond memories of going to a frat house at W&L demanding that they clean up the Sigma Nu monument that they had defaced with paint—it was so done. Curly then recalled a favorite incident when one BR responded to his 85th birthday celebration with a condolence card. As Mark Twain said: “The report of my passing was greatly exaggerated.” Ron said wife Patty was still in a nursing home; he visits her daily. Their son has retired from the U.S. Air Force and is teaching in the AFROTC program at Lovingston High School, and their daughter is studying at Mary Washington University. Joe indicated he was still feeling the effects of many months of radiation treatment for his prostate cancer but planned to be at the reunion if his son is available as a chauffeur to drive him. Bill and wife Florine are doing relatively well at the moment, and they, too, plan to attend the reunion.

Team 7: Kenny Dickinson. K.K. reported in through his interpreter, wife Katie, on Paul Muldowney, G.E. Murray, Jay Musser, Dick Newman, George Niedermayer, John Paganelli, and Randy Pendleton. Paul could not be reached, although a number of calls were made to him. (Class agent’s note: Rumor has it that Muldowney was again reliving his victorious crawl along the third stoop, successfully avoiding the ever-watchful eye of the sentinel on duty, to reach his room during a barracks and room confinement check.) G.E. and wife Rosalie are doing well and will also be at the reunion. And Jay the rainmaker echoed that he and wife Sonja will also be at the reunion, both

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Class Notes being in good health and spirits and going strong, secrets to me. Alas.) And the press secretary was a lead. When they reached the end of the agenda all the while involved in activities too many to right. He didn’t get the job. I was just starting off in and the chairman asked if there was any more mention. Dick will not be attending the reunion my career as a reporter when, in 1960, the city hall business, a commissioner raised his hand and ofbut said he was in good health and very busy in reporter for the Sun-Sentinel in Pompano Beach fered a motion to fire the city manager, which was the Arizona community where he resides—activi- suddenly quit, and I was pulled off the police beat quickly adopted. It was a coup, with two of the ties including MOAA chapter president and the to cover a city commission meeting. It was really commissioners who supported the manager missArizona Water Board of Directors. He sends his boring, and I was wondering what I could find for ing from the meeting, and all hell broke loose. A couple of days later, I went by the city regards and best wishes to all BRs. George manager’s house to do a follow-up intersaid he was happy to have survived the view, and the first thing I saw was a copy pandemic, likely due to his pursuit of an of the VMI Alumni Review on a table extremely quiet lifestyle. He was noncomin the living room. Sure enough, Jim mittal about attendance at the reunion. The Hughes ’939 was a graduate of VMI. Pag was in high spirits when reached by It was a great icebreaker for a reporter K.K. He and wife Diane are doing great; who was just beginning to learn the ins he remains an avid golfer, getting out on and outs of city government. The firing the course whenever he can, readying himwas the beginning of a lengthy battle beself for the ultimate challenge of a 36-hole tween the good guys and the bad guys in round with “gorilla” Don Coombs for the Class of ’57 championship trophy. Randy, Class of 1957: Lionel Hancock, Stuart Nichols, Jack Trant, Phil Pompano Beach politics, with Hughes as many of us know, left VMI after his first Peters, Harvey Griggs, and Art McCrary enjoying some R&R on the side of the good guys. He was a great help to me in my coverage. One year and became a very fine newspaper time. day in the mid-1980s, I was tipped that reporter. A story on Randy and his career Florida Governor Bob Graham would be went thusly: “VMI will be heard from meeting in his office with the president today; reporting on ‘Florida politics and of the Florida Senate to try to work out VMI people.’ I guess you know the first a solution to a knotty problem near the president of Florida State University was end of the legislative session. Graham’s a VMI graduate. In my 40-plus years in chief of staff, Dick Burroughs ’50B, told journalism, there was a common and surme he was sorry, but the meeting would prising thread: The number of VMI alumni be in closed session; however, he would who I ran into and who were, invariably, fill me in on the details when it was over. helpful to whatever I was working on. As I sat down outside the office and waited my career was winding down in the 1990s, for Senate President Harry Johnston I was covering Florida state government in Class of 1957: E.G. Drewry Fox, George Sydnor, and Jack ’53 to arrive. Well, it wasn’t long beTallahassee for the Florida Times-Union Trant in fall 1953 in room 497. fore Johnston showed up, trailed by a and one day found myself chatting with reporter from the ‘mighty’ Mithe press secretary for the forami Herald, who was demandmer comptroller. He was gloomy ing admission to the meeting. about the prospects for keeping Burroughs said to wait a minhis job now that a retired Marine ute and they would discuss it lieutenant general, Bob Milligan, privately. After Graham, Burhad become comptroller. He told roughs, and Johnston talked me that when Milligan interit over, Burroughs came out viewed him, the chief of staff—a to announce that they would retired Marine colonel—just sat admit one pool reporter, and there, staring at him. Who was it would be me. The Herald the chief of staff, I inquired? reporter was furious; I was ‘Some guy named Huffcut,’ he elated. Well, it turned out that replied. ‘Bill Huffcut?’ I asked.

Johnston was a 1953 VMI It was. Bill proved to be a great grad. He used to jokingly call chief of staff and was always me ‘brother rat.’ And coincihelpful when I was working on a dentally, Burroughs’ father, story involving the comptroller’s Class of 1957: A crew of cadet waiters in 1953-54.

Richard Burroughs ’906, was office. (No, he didn’t leak any

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes a tac officer at VMI when my father was a cadet.

In fact, I gave Burroughs a copy of a page from my father’s (Class agent’s note: Randy’s father was Randolph Tucker Pendleton ’908 who served in the Army as a brigadier general and received the Legion of Merit for his service to our country) 1908 copy of The Bomb that had a photo and a cartoon drawing of Burroughs’ father. I don’t know if the VMI connections helped me get into that meeting, but they sure didn’t hurt.” Randy said he is doing well but does not plan on attending the reunion, although he has remained a loyal supporter of the Institute. We had a nice conversation and a lot of laughs regarding our experiences, most of which were and must remain officially off the record. K.K. further noted that he and John Poffenbarger talk weekly to keep up to date with one another and that wife Katie calls Dawn and Dixie Thomas monthly to see how they are doing. The last call indicated they were doing “fairly” well, but not well enough to be able to attend the reunion. On a playful note, K.K. related his favorite remembrance from our barracks days: “Russ Davis telling me why I couldn’t take Maggie from the VMI laundry room to Ring Figure! I insisted I was in love and would be there! (I wasn’t.)” On a more somber note, just received by us, Kenny advised that Bob Fravel has been in the hospital suffering from septic shock and came close to “entering the dark tunnel.” He is now in a rehab facility, healing from the infection, and trying to get his strength back, per wife Connie. Our thoughts and prayers go out to them. K.K. parted with: “Keep up the good work for the Class of ’57. God bless all.”

Team 8: Bob Wood. All BRs recall that Bob left our ranks suddenly Oct. 21, and his report was not available before his passing. He was to have checked in with P.D. Phillips, Jim Piggott, John Poffenbarger, Ed Powell, Dudley Price, Skip Richardson, and Pete Riddle. George will fill in now with some information. P.D. is always his exuberant self and stays in touch with all BRs within a 125-mile radius of Gainesville, Georgia.

More frequently, he and wife Ann visit the Florida panhandle and break bread with Betty and Bill Huffcut. Jim stays busier than a “one-armed paperhanger” planning our 65th Reunion that is fast approaching the time we reconvene as a Class from Sunday, April 24, through Wednesday, April 27. Jim says, “Stay tuned for final details, take your vitamins, and clear your throats for an Old Yell for the Class of ’57 as we march into barracks one more time.” The Poff and wife Susan are

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“holding down the fort” from their domicile conveniently located within two blocks of the West Virginia state capitol where Poff regularly consults with members of the legislature. No news on Ed, Dudley, or Pete, but the class sends its best wishes to all and hopes they will be in attendance at the reunion. We received a nice card from Skip from the swamp hinterlands of Pungo in far southeast in Virginia as one can go. He reminded us that all his boys turned out to be girls. His three daughters begat him nine grandchildren, six of which are boys. (Class agent’s note: Patience doth hath its rewards.)

The widows’ corner: Patti Hammond checked in saying how much she and all the widows appreciated being included in the class notes and birthday remembrances. Patti enjoys her annual trips to Colorado to visit family, as well as trips to Myrtle Beach and her condo there, with her daughters and friends. Madge Perry, widow of BR Sid Perry, passed away Oct. 20, 2021. Edith J. Maffeo, significant other of Joe Yon, indicated she plans to make a bequest/contribution in his memory to the Foundation. Diana Kyle was most appreciative of our expressed concern for husband Jim Kyle during his prolonged good fight and attempt to recover from several debilitating falls. Nice notes were received from Ann Gilmore, Betty Mixson, and Pat Saunders—always looking forward to reading the ’57 news in the annual four issues of the Alumni Review. And all hope to attend the 65th in April, looking forward to reconnecting with old friends. In the meantime, all noted with appreciation receipt of birthday cards, the best wishes, and especially the inclusion of pictures which brought back so many fond memories.

Before signing off on this edition of class notes, we continue our honored tradition of remembering our brother rats who have crossed over the river and are now resting under the shade of the trees.

Our sixth list of “those gone, but not forgotten,” Class of ’57: Dick Brown, Jan. 18, 2000; Herb Holinko, Feb. 14, 2000; Charles Bowles, May 24, 2000; John Pipkin, May 27, 2000; and Walter Bain, July 15, 2000. And since the last edition of these notes, we have lost John Emmerich, Jim Kyle, and Bob Wood. Rest in peace, brother rats, until at last we are all reunited. Close ranks: There are 87 of us still standing! And although the Class of ’57 is showing its “model and mileage,” we are still marching, heads up, into whatever the future may bring. Proud to be your class agents, George and Howard

1958

Lee McCown

It’s autumn in Richmond! And we hear from relatives whose jobs take them around the state that the leaves right here at home are the most beautiful. The three street trees in front of our house—two maples and a cherry—support that observation.

Several decades ago, Richmond’s arborists set a goal of diversifying the tree population on city property to prevent the kind of devastation that occurred when the percentage was too heavily elm, and those were killed by a plague of Dutch elm disease. One of the results of that diversification is more gingkoes, which put on a breathtaking golden show in the fall.

Laura gets irritated when our arborists are accused of deliberately planting female ginkgoes, which drop smelly fruit. She maintains that no arborist would ever intentionally do that, but it is hard to distinguish the gender of young trees.

She recently got even more ammunition for her defense of our arborists when she read that the ginkgo can actually change gender as it ages.

Long live the ginkgo and our other favorite, the sourwood.

At summer’s end, the Class of ’58 was finally able to gather for our long-delayed and several times canceled mini reunion. Several attempts to organize a weekend in Richmond didn’t attract enough people, but we finally got together for a lunch at Extra Billy’s BBQ in Richmond.

Present Sept. 24 were Brooke Doggett, Charlie Hayes, Becky and Onza Hyatt, Lee McCown and Laura Cameron, Carol and Moon Menefee, Paul Royer, Stuart Whitehurst, and Jane and Stirling Williamson. The food was good, the conversation lively, and we signed cards for Bruce Haldeman and Bill Holt, both of whom were in hospice at the time.

Sad to say, Bruce died several days later in Wilson, North Carolina, where he and Barbara had fairly recently moved to be close to their daughter, Anne. Bruce was a top athlete at VMI on the swim team and a three-time Southern Conference Champion in the 220, 440, and 1,500 freestyle.

He was an ardent tennis player and followed VMI

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Class Notes sports closely. Bruce ran a mineral company in his later working years and was a registered professional engineer in Tennessee, Kentucky, North Carolina, Mississippi, and Oklahoma. I highly recommend reading his obituary (courier-journal.com/obituaries/lcj234277), as he had some of the most interesting family history I’ve ever seen, including one great-grandfather who founded the Louisville Courier Journal and the city of Naples, Florida, and another who was a railroad man for whom the towns of Norton, Virginia, and Nortonville, Kentucky, are named. I appreciated Bruce staying in touch with me as class agent, sending YouTube videos that I forwarded to all of you. Rest in peace, Bruce. Our sympathy goes out to his family.

Laura and I delivered Bill Holt’s card to him and were treated to a delicious lunch by Landa. Bill is still strong in voice and spirit and said he very much appreciated all the cards BRs have sent him.

Since our last Alumni Review, we lost Dave Camper Aug. 15 and Ken Godfrey Aug. 18. It was a beautiful day at Signal Hill Memorial Park in Hanover County, Virginia, for Dave’s graveside celebration of life, followed by lunch at the nearby Hanover Tavern Coach House. Barbara Camper, a very gracious hostess, found time to speak with all of us. We were also able to speak with Dave and Barbara’s affable grandson, U.S. Army 1st Lt. Justin Graubics ’18. As Justin put it, he’s stationed at Fort Bliss “because that’s where the tanks are.”

Dave’s time in the Army was in armor, too. Rest in peace, Dave. And our condolences to his family.

Present at Dave’s service were Brooke Doggett; Becky and Onza Hyatt; Lee McCown and Laura Cameron; Carol and Moon Menefee and their daughter, Laura; Paul Royer; and Stuart Whitehurst.

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Class of 1958: Attending Dave Camper’s celebration of life reception are (seated) Onza and Becky Hyatt, (standing) Lee McCown, Paul Royer, and Barbara Camper.

Class of 1958: At Ken Godfrey’s service of remembrance are (from left) Bill Harshaw, Carolyn Harshaw, Sandy Yon, Lee McCown, Hunter Clarke, and B.J. Clarke.

Class of 1958: At the Camper reception are (from left) Stuart Whitehurst, Laura Menefee, Brooke Doggett, Carol Menefee, Moon Menefee, and Lee McCown.

The highlight of Ken Godfrey’s service of thanksgiving and remembrance at Francis Asbury United Methodist Church in Virginia Beach was the eulogy by his daughter, Laura Roy, who recalled many kind, generous, and funny things Ken did.

It was a loving tribute indeed, with many comical references to his “engineerness,” although she didn’t use that term, but my Laura sometimes uses it to describe me.

Ken was the director of engineering and design at the Naval Facilities Engineering Command, and I remember seeing his name as the final signatory on specifications. Those of us who remember Ken from VMI will recall that while an excellent student, he also had a lot of fun. Our deepest sympathy goes out to Lorna and the family. Rest in peace, Ken. And we wish peace for his family.

Attending Ken’s service were B.J. and Hunter Clarke; Carolyn and Bill Harshaw; Lee McCown and Laura Cameron; and Sandy Yon, wife of Dan Yon. It was especially great to see Sandy after so many years. BR Dan died in 1999, and she has faithfully stayed in touch with his class agents.

Joe Gray passed away peacefully Oct. 10 in San Antonio, with his wife, Betty; sons, Steve Gray ’86 and Jason Gray ’89; and Steve’s wife, Robin, at his side. While Joe spent just one year at VMI, he was as devoted a BR as any and sent both sons to the Institute, and a grandson is in the Class of ’19. For many years, Joe attended our reunions, football games, and other events.

He matriculated from Shreveport, Louisiana, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Northwestern State University of Louisiana, as well as a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the U.S. Army War College. Joe spent 35 years in the Army, many in the reserve, rising from private to major general. The family held a service

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes in Williamsburg, where he and Betty lived until recently, and one at Quantico National Cemetery, where he will be buried. Rest in peace, Joe. And the deepest sympathy to his family.

Another death I learned of recently was Eleanor Rose, who died in July. Eleanor was married to BR Henry “Hank” Rose, who died in 2014. Their daughter, Ellen Walker, called to let me know when a VMI birthday card for Eleanor arrived after her death. Eleanor’s obituary says she “worked in the accounting profession until becoming a stay-at-home mother. She had many talents and enjoyed sewing, painting, arts and crafts, quilting, gardening, bowling, and crossword puzzles.”

Hank was her high school sweetheart. He was with us at VMI for one year and graduated from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Paul Royer says that Hank was an excellent trumpet player (takes one to know one) and continued to play in bands after VMI—the Richmond Concert Band, the Box Car Brass, and a band that played German music. The Roses lived in Sandston, Virginia.

Rest in peace, Eleanor and Hank. And blessings on your family at this difficult time.

Len Rubin sent a nice letter from his home in Melville, New York, after receiving my birthday card. “Melanie and I still reside in a senior citizen condo. Along with the virus, things here are dull and slow, but it’s the best and only game in town.”

Len said he was sad to hear about the death of Frank Boeggeman and had spoken with Elaine.

“Even with a bad leg and recent spine surgery, I’d love to catch the football team,” he said. “Miss seeing my BRs. Cannot believe it’s been almost 65 years since graduation.” Best to you and Melanie, Len, and here’s hoping we will see you both at the 65th Reunion in spring 2023.

Gene Martin let me know that he and Peggy have moved into a retirement facility “due to the continued decline of my health status.” As many of you know, while in the U.S. Air Force during the Vietnam War, Gene flew many missions from Japan and had to bail out of his plane when a missile exploded nearby. He and his partner spent several days in the jungle, and his partner was captured by the enemy. Despite his injuries, Gene went on to have a 20-year career in the Air Force, finishing as a lieutenant colonel. He holds graduate degrees from Auburn and Troy State Universities and retired as chief financial officer of Fluor Daniel Corporation. Here’s hoping your latest change goes well, Gene. Your resilience is well documented.

We’re still in touch with Jeanie Woodman, who

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is very pleased with her new home in an assisted living community in Alexandria, Virginia. Online, it certainly looks like it meets her high aesthetic standards! Since Jan’s death in 2018, Jeanie has experienced the death of their daughter, Debbie, and many health problems including diabetes, a coma, and a concussion. But she’s still spirited and spunky. You go, Jeanie.

Laura and I see Sally and Sam Witt often, enjoying spicy Chinese food together. They too have beautiful living arrangements at Westminster Canterbury Richmond. Sally knew and loved Jeanie when the Woodman family lived for a time on

Class of 1958: Mara Pitkethly with one of her renowned sheet cakes made for the Pacific Northwest Chapter gathering.

Class of 1958: 1st Lt. Justin Graubics ’18, grandson of Dave Camper, with Lee McCown at his grandfather’s funeral reception.

West Avenue in Richmond, where Sally grew up.

Dave Pitkethly sent a photo of Mara with one of the sheet cakes that she bakes every year for the Pacific Northwest Chapter gathering hosted by Pete Farmer ’68, chapter president. Apparently, the cake is always a big hit, and Dave summarizes its flavor with one word—“Yum!” Pete verifies this. You can see their chapter gathering photo in Alumni Review 2021-Issue 4, page 42. Besides Dave, you’ll spot Roy Palmer—both of them looking hale and hearty, as usual.

In the same Alumni Review issue, on page 62 in the Class of ’57 notes, is a photograph of the 1956 VMI cheerleaders. Included are Bob Greathead, Jack Payne, Tom Smyth, and Billy Thomas from our class, and Lynn Avis ’57, Carter Fox ’57, and Jay Long ’57 from ’57. Yours truly appears on page 63 with George and Jimbo Smith ’60.

I highly recommend reading the ’57 class notes, done so diligently and creatively by George Sydnor ’57 and Howard Lawrence ’57.

This newsy October email came from Roy Palmer: “I just returned from a week in Texas.

The trip began with a flight to San Antonio for a reunion of my Vietnam War fighter pilot group at the party room of a fighter squadron on a nearby Air Force base. Since almost all officers’ clubs have closed in recent years, fighter squadrons now have their own party facilities.

“One fellow told some great stories about his career. He became a three-star general and was stationed at the Pentagon when the 9/11 attack occurred. He was in a briefing with our own General John Jumper ’66 when the attack began on the World Trade Center. General Jumper had only recently been named chief of staff of the Air Force, and 9/11 was his very first day on the job.

“After the second airplane hit the World Trade Center, General Jumper and his staff made the decision to secure all U.S. airspace and not allow any takeoffs. His briefing room was not in the section of the Pentagon that was hit. Interestingly, the Pentagon was being renovated in sections.

The section where the airplane crashed was the first section and still under construction. Many offices were not complete; otherwise, the death toll would have been much greater.

“Following the pilot reunion in San Antonio, Peggy and Jim Poteet picked me up at my hotel for a drive to Lynne and Jack Boze’s home in Wimberley, Texas, for our mini, mini ’58 reunion.

We had a wonderful three days and solved most of the world’s problems. Jack was a fantastic tour

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Class Notes conductor, as he drove us around that part of Texas. Looking forward to our class reunion in 2023 but wish it weren’t so far in the distance.” Sounds like a fantastic trip, Roy, and 2023 does seem a long time away.

While Laura and I haven’t traveled farther than Lexington in recent months, I’ve certainly been enjoying the success of VMI’s football team, which has included tailgating with our family of wives, daughters, granddaughters, and grandsons plus three generations of Institute alums: brother David McCown ’73, son Derek McCown ’89, nephew Allen McCown ’11 and grandsons Jack McCown ’24 and Jefferson Miles ’24. At the time of this writing, we have one more game, which we all plan to enjoy, win or lose.

Please stay in touch, brother rats, so I won’t have to submit so many photographs of myself.

Lee

1959

Shep Shepard

Ed Adams passed away Aug. 18 in Greenville, North Carolina. Lee said that Ed’s death was due to a fall from his golf cart, which resulted in a broken hip and surgery. Complications during his three weeks in the hospital, including hospital delirium and pneumonia, resulted in his death. It must have been a very difficult time for Lee. She said his funeral was a celebration of his very active and philanthropic life. At the reception, she served all his favorite foods, from Chick-Fil-A to popcorn, and had a special table with all his favorite VMI paraphernalia such as pictures, sweatshirts, etc. Lee sent a very nice note thanking the class for the beautiful red, white, and yellow flowers. She was also very appreciative of the many wonderful phone calls she received from Ed’s BRs; it provided comfort and care when she most needed it.

While attending the Florida group mini reunion in Winter Garden, I received the disturbing news from Nowell Loop that Laura Masotti had passed away. Coincidentally, we were just talking about Laura and Jim at the mini reunion. Laura had been living with her son, Jim, in North Carolina for the past several years. Jim said Laura fell and broke her hip socket and never recovered. After 16 days

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in the hospital, she was placed in hospice care and sent home, where she remained unresponsive and continued to deteriorate, passing peacefully Sept.

11. Jim Junior said that he believed that much of her strength and character as a person came from the times she spent with his father and his classmates. Jim thanks all of Jim’s BRs for the time spent with her; she cherished every minute of it.

How sad that Jim and Laura Masotti were married only two years when he was killed in Vietnam.

In October, I received word from Bob Hobson that his beloved wife, Lois, passed away Oct. 22 as a result of Alzheimer’s disease. She was the love of his life and stood by him and with him for 63-and-a-half years, including the VMI years.

Max Guggenheimer recalls several years ago that when Bob and Lois were living in Lexington, he and his oldest son were in the football stands sitting right behind them. It was very warm that Saturday, and though Max recognized Bob, Bob and Lois had not seen him. Max saw that Lois was very warm from the hot sun, so when he went to get a bottle of water, he also got one for her.

When Bob turned around to thank him, he appeared stunned; he recognized Max but kept staring first at his son and then at him. Finally, Bob said that Max’s son was Max back when we were in school. Bob and Lois were special, and though they were not close friends, Max has always felt them special and fortunate to have known them.

Please keep these BRs and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

When I forwarded a message about the cheating scandal and the subsequent lenient reaction taken by the superintendent of West Point, I received the following from Ken Bradford. You will appreciate what he wrote. “Thanks for forwarding the link. It’s sad and dismaying to see how the service academies have compromised their very foundation. This compromise does not bode well for the future leadership and performance of our armed forces. We VMI alumni may disagree on a variety of issues affecting the Institute, but I hope that the Honor Code will never become a subject that needs debating. It’s not the uniforms, not the history, not the parades, nor the classes that are the core of what makes VMI worthy of preservation and continuance. One either lies or tells the truth. One is either honest or a thief. One either matches their work against the problems of a subject or they cheat. The world will never be ideal, and no human being will ever be perfect. But at

VMI we have a standard, a clear one, to which we may aspire.”

Tex and Emily Carr have not let COVID-19 keep them from enjoying life. Last July, they took a quick but excellent ocean cruise to the Caribbean

Class of 1959: Phillip and Blair Sellers visit their grandfather, Phil Sellers, in Arlington National Cemetery.

Class of 1959: John Reed with his son, Jack, on their way to an evening of trick or treating.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes on Celebrity Cruise Lines. In late August, they flew to Bruges, Belgium, and after enjoying some great Belgian waffles, they boarded a riverboat in Amsterdam and headed south on the Rhine River where they stopped along the way long enough to help harvest grapes in Trier, Germany; sample a glass or two of wine; and indulge in a few liters of beer, all while suffering the slings and arrows of old and well-worn knees. They returned to Basel for their return flight to the USA but ended up leaving late, causing them to miss their connection in Frankfurt. Frankfurt was a nightmare, and they ended up having to spend the night there. They were so exhausted by the time they got home that they had to cancel their reservations for the Florida group mini reunion.

To add insult to injury, when they finally did land on USA soil, Tex tripped on a curb and now has a temporary cast on his wrist.

Well over a year ago, we planned a Florida group mini reunion on an American Cruise Lines paddlewheel boat, Queen of the West, for a cruise up the Columbia and Snake Rivers to explore the Pacific Northwest and follow the trail of the intrepid explorers, Lewis and Clark.

The cruise was scheduled to begin in Hayden Island, Oregon, just outside of Portland and take us to Clarkston, Washington. We had a good turnout, with eight couples responding to the call. COVID-19 put the kibosh on that plan, but several of us did get vouchers to be used at a later date when the pandemic subsided. After much discussion, we all decided to bite the bullet and set sail Aug. 20-28, 2021: Mel and Jean Anderson, Don and Carole Messner, Al and Peggy (Smith) Colville, Bob Haines and Monique Harnetty, and Ann and me. Unfortunately, Bill and Connie Nebraska and Lee and Nancy Southard pulled the plug and backed out. Bud and Susan Mease had to postpone their trip because Susan had a hip replacement, but they did subsequently make the trip just a few weeks later. The cruise was excellent despite a few hitches that should not have occurred. The food was excellent, excursions were educational and interesting, and the young and inexperienced service personnel did their best and learned rapidly. Speaking of learning, it is amazing what you learn about brother and sister rats at dinner after a two-hour cocktail hour. Alcohol seems to loosen the tongue; for example, who would have thought that it was Carol’s prancing across the dance floor that attracted Don to her, or who

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knew that Al Colville had a doctorate from MIT? When I found out about Al’s doctorate, I was afraid to talk to him for the rest of the trip.

All went well on the cruise with no serious damage. The highlights of the excursions had to be the trip we took to Mount St. Helens, followed by the jet boat ride on the Snake River exploring Hells Canyon, North America’s deepest river gorge. Hells Canyon offered scenic vistas that rival any on the continent, world-class whitewater boating, and spectacular mountain peaks.

When we signed up for this cruise back in 2019, I received an email from Joe Monroe strongly suggesting we not miss the jet boat ride through Hells Canyon. Thanks for the advice, Joe. After nearly two years in hibernation without a mini reunion, the Florida group finally got together in mid-September in Winter Garden, Florida, to break the ice. COVID-19 did her job and caused Dick and Linda Phillippi to cancel out because of the serious COVID-19 problem in Florida. Bob Haines and Monique Harnetty also backed out because Bob came down with the virus, and he did not want to expose anyone to the terrible virus. Tex and Emily Carr were also scheduled to attend, but their return trip from Europe was fraught with missed planes and a long night in Rhine-Main Airport in Frankfurt that by the time they got back to Fernandina Beach, they were so exhausted they could not muster up the energy to make it to Winter Garden. Bud and Denyse Kramer intended to attend the Wednesday night dinner, but Denyse came down with a bug and they had to cancel out. Nevertheless, we did have a good turnout with Mel and Jean Anderson checking in from Tampa, Bill and Connie Nebraska from Hernando, newly transplanted Floridians Art and Ginny Brandriff also from Tampa, Lee and Nancy Southard from Fort Myers, and Dave Goode from Bradenton. Ann and I drove over from the Space Coast. The mini reunion was held in the historic Edgewater Hotel in Winter Garden, Florida, where we were served in a modern bed-and-breakfast style, preserving the original 1926 hotel experience. Originally opened in 1927 as one of the most technologically advanced hotels of its day, today, the hotel has undergone a historic restoration to provide guests with as much of the original 1927 ambiance as possible while making modern comforts such as climate control and wireless internet as unobtrusive as possible. From the antique sinks

and fixtures to the original 1926 Otis elevator, the Edgewater is a B&B experience like none other in the Orlando area.

We had a great time just sitting around telling a lot of the same old stories, but with Art and Ginny there, they were able to embellish them just a little bit more. Art even came up with a number of stories we had not heard. Speaking of Ginny, it is one thing to write or read about an event but another to actually see it in person or on video. This was the case with Harlee Pate’s magnificent dog. Ginny showed us video after video of Harlee’s dog performing, and we were all mesmerized with his performance. It is obvious what will be our major entertainment at our 65th Reunion. We were also fortunate to have our daughter, Christine Ellegood, and her boyfriend, Scott Wilson, join us for the Wednesday night dinner. Christine works for Jacobs Technology, which provides overall management and implementation of ground systems capabilities, flight hardware processing, and launch operations at NASA on Kennedy Space Center.

Scott is the manager of production operations for NASA Orion Program, overseeing manufacturing production and testing of the Orion Multipurpose crew vehicle, the vehicle that will take the astronauts to Mars. Both are very wellinformed about what is going on in the space program and were able to answer many questions that the group had. We had a nice evening at the Market to Table Restaurant before adjourning to the hotel for more storytelling. Everyone seemed to have a great time, and many suggested that we increase to two minis a year.

Jim Edmunds reports that, despite the pandemic, he and Miki have been leading a very active life with lots of camping in their Airstream Basecamp trailer. It’s 16 feet long and has all of the amenities, including a shower and kitchen with a microwave, and it is equipped for camping off the grid for a few days. That doesn’t sound like camping to me, but they have been to Northern California where they hiked and kayaked. Perhaps he ought to redefine hiking as just long walks—not too strenuous. They are already in the process of making camping reservations for next year. Their travels have not been confined to the USA; they spent three weeks in Switzerland in September visiting Miki’s daughter and her husband and two grandchildren who live in Basel. They traveled all over Switzerland on the wonderful train system,

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Class Notes other than a burst of short-lived tears every so but no driving. It’s a beautiful country, with the that are finally returning to normal. Truman BaxAlps and large lakes and green grass for grazing ter checks in from time to time to make sure all often, she is doing fine. She is still cleaning out cows to make milk for cheese, and don’t forget is well. She says his visits are a delight, and he Kent’s papers and stuff. A friend joined Betsy, that delicious Swiss chocolate. Their flights from has never lost his great sense of humor. God bless and they drove to Maine to visit with some of Kent’s kids and take some memorabilia to them.

San Francisco to Zurich and back were less than VMI. I had a slight communications problem with She had a bunch of letters and photos from the half full, which made for some comfortable traveling. They have both had their shot to include the Noland and Mary Pipes, but we got it resolved 1800s connected to his ancestral home, The and we’re back in business. I am surprised that ei- Wells Stone House in Goshen, New York. She booster and had to show proof before boarding, has reached the point where she does not feel any including recent COVID-19 test results. They ther of them is able to do anything, as they are so remain healthy and active and enjoying life and excited and proud of their oldest granddaughter, guilt when throwing out stuff because the imporEmily Jordan. Emily graduated from Columbia tant stuff has been sorted and already saved. hope the same for all BRs. Speaking of Royall and Geri Geis, you will University in May, summa cum laude and Phi Ned and Bunny Addison have decided that the time involved in maintaining a big house is just Beta Kappa, both of which she worked very hard. recall that when they were in the Bay Area atnot worth it and have given up the ghost. Next This past summer, she traveled to Europe, where tending their granddaughter’s high school graduation, Royall had a fall and suffered a broken spring, they plan to move to Harbor’s Edge, a she met up with friends she made while studying hip. He had an operation and remained in the retirement home in Norfolk, Virginia, where they at Cambridge University her junior year. She then met another friend, and they hiked the French hospital for a few days before being transferred hope they will see more of old friends Harlee Pate Pyrenees Mountains for two weeks. Her hope is to a rehab facility where he underwent some seand Danny and Lee Coogan. Added into the rious physical therapy. To add insult to injury, equation was the recent surgery that Bunny had to be granted a fellowship to study and teach in to rid herself of that dreadful cancer. As of this the Netherlands. What an amazing young wom- Geri had been experiencing severe lower back an; no wonder they are so proud. They are doing pain before they arrived. The pain was so severe writing, Bunny’s surgery was successful, and she was recovering at home with expert care- well, health-wise. Noland still having lymphatic that she had an MRI, which showed tumors in the center of her back. She underwent spine taking and supervisory duties being performed fluid drains—just had number 50.

Betsy Decker was cleaning out Kent’s stuff surgery and found the tumors were cancerous,

by Ned. We wish her a speedy recovery. They have yet another grandson at VMI this year—a when she came across a very nice photo of Kent which they are hoping will respond to medicarat who Ned confesses is running much more and Royall Geis taken many years ago. She was tion and radiation without chemo. They were in than he was when he was there, but then again, anxious to share it with Royall and Geri, so I the capable hands of their daughter, Stacey, who connected the two. Betsy is doing fairly well; took a leave of absence to care for them. After who wasn’t? several months in San Francisco, Royall Skip and Linda White have been able and Geri are back in Florida. Geri is still to keep some normalcy during these in recovery mode and is unable to look COVID-19 years by continuing to have after Royall properly, so Royall is in a their annual beach week, of which I home until she is feeling better. She is have always been envious. Twentymost anxious to get him home because nine souls showed up bright-eyed and he is not happy at the home, although bushy-tailed, and all were quarantined, he is their favorite patient. A born coincluding the girlfriends. Skip and Linmedian. They should be back together da have had their annual beach week in no time at all. from Kiawah, Hawaii, to Hilton Head, Bill and Mary Kessler have much to South Carolina, to the Carolina beaches. be thankful for. Through the prayers Skip’s favorite is an area in North Caroof family, friends, and all their BRs, as lina called the Crystal Coast, which is well as the talents of some gifted Long a collection of islands. The beaches are Beach, California doctors, Bill and excellent and not crowded. He used to Mary are enjoying a return to the quiet play golf around North Myrtle Beach, retirement life. Mary is feeling much but the area has become so congested it better with a higher energy level than just is not fun anymore. before, and Bill is recovering from a Patty Myers sent a nice note thanking bout with cancer. Life is good. his BRs for raising a glass for Marvin at As you will recall, John Reed took the recent Winter Garden mini reunion; a nasty fall while visiting Gatlinburg, it meant a great deal to her. Patty misses Marvin tremendously, but her wonder- Class of 1959: Bill Nebraska with sons Todd and Paul and grand- Tennessee, last summer. By the time the sons Mark and Sam on their seventh annual steelhead trout injuries healed, and the scabs went away, ful family is very supportive. She is also fishing trip. it was time for another fall. Fortunately, much involved in worthwhile activities

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes they were not on concrete—definitely not like the Gatlinburg fall. So far, he has been lucky with no broken bones. The Lord has always looked out for his struggling sinners! As you will recall, John has been working down in Haiti for the past 20 years providing aid and building schools. A close friend of his who lives in the midst of the chaos told him that he has not left his apartment in over two weeks. Chaos with no solution in site but, as John says, at least he is not a captive in Haiti.

Talked to Bonnie Pomponio, and she is doing pretty good despite the fact that she recently got tangled up with the family dog, fell, and broke her hip. After surgery and several screws, they put her in rehabilitation where she healed perfectly with the help of Matt; Ellie; and her grandsons, J.T. and David. Bonnie stays in touch with Waldo Ferony and said he is doing all right in Virginia.

After many years of suffering through VMI’s dismal football programs, Eddie and Carolyn Barnes once again have found it pleasant to attend VMI football games this past spring and fall. The team is great and does not give up. Eddie wishes more BRs could attend the games and see the Big Red in action, but they can see all VMI sports on ESPN+ for about $60 a year.

That was indeed Brock MacGregor ’23, grandson of Harry MacGregor and son of Lee MacGregor ’92, on the cover of the last Alumni Review. He was the fourth cadet from the right.

Bill Nebraska and his sons, Todd and Paul, were joined by grandsons Mark and Sam this year for

Class of 1959: Attending a mini reunion in Winter Garden, Florida, are Bill and Connie Nebraska, Lee and Nancy Southard, Scott Wilson and Christine Ellegood (Ann and Shep’s daughter), Shep and Ann Shepard, Art and Ginny Brandiff, Dave Goode, and Jean and Mel Anderson. their seventh annual steelhead trout fishing trip in northwest Pennsylvania. “It don’t get no better than that.”

Ann and I have finally joined the ranks of greatgrandparents. Our grandson, Patrick Merrigan, and his lovely wife, Kristen, presented us with our first great-granddaughter. Margot L. Merrigan. Maggi was born Oct. 5, 2021, in Salem, Massachusetts, and we are so happy to be greatgrandparents and very anxious to hold her. We recently returned from a week at Hilton Head, South Carolina. Our daughter, Christine, who has been working remotely from home since the pandemic, joined us. Although she spent much of her time on

Class of 1959: Visiting Mount St. Helens, Washington, are Carolyn and Don Messner, Ann and Shep Shepard, Peggy and Al Colville, Mel and Jean Anderson, Monique Harnetty, and Bob Haines.

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the computer working, we did get some quality time and made our way to Bluffton and Beauford where we enjoyed good food, interesting tours of the cities, and good company. In the 20-plus years we have been vacationing at Hilton Head, Ann and I have never visited Daufuskie Island. Although it is only a 55-minute boat ride from Hilton Head, it was like going back 100 years in time. Most of the island still remains dirt roads, revealing an island that is rich in history and nature with one of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast.

Plantation owners and slaves fled the island at the start of the Civil War when Union soldiers occupied the island. After the war, freed slaves (Gullah) returned to the island, purchasing small plots of land, or working for landowners. The isolation provided the setting for the retention of their African culture. We visited the Bloody Point Lighthouse, the African Baptist Church, Mary Fields School, and many, many other interesting sights.

We had a great day on Daufuskie Island. Two years ago, Ann and I rented a large home in Hilton Head where we intended to celebrate our 60th wedding anniversary with our whole family. COVID-19 had other plans for us, and we had to cancel out. After corresponding with Skip and Linda White, and with their guidance, we have booked a 10-bedroom home in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, in the Great Smoky Mountains next fall for a family reunion and celebration of our 62nd wedding anniversary. We are looking forward to a great week of sharing memories.

Keep those cards and letters coming in.

Yours in the Spirit, Shep

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Class of 1960: George Ax, John Barr, Carl Benner, Bowlman Bowles, S.M. Brown, Edward Davis, Richard Duncan, William Elliott, Vaughn Foxwell, James French, Clifford Frith, Gerald Herrmann, John Hester, Samuel Horner, Patrick Hughes, Wayne LeBlang, David Maddox, Darryl Markland, Peter McGue, Roy McLeod, Richard Miller, Samuel Miller, John Moore, Howard Moss, George Phillips, James Pittman, Otis Pool, Jon Quinn, Jimmie Seeley, Philip Shiner, Henry Shirley, Joseph Sisler, James Smith, William Smith, Joseph Stewart, Lloyd Tolley, James Tumlinson, Herbert Vaughan, Jack Willard, and Walter Witschard.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1960

James A. Smith III

Greetings from St. James, North Carolina. This will be my last set of notes from here, as we will moving to Lexington Sept. 13. New address is 12 Evergreen Tree Drive, Lexington, VA 24450.

Leaving the beach and flatland for the Blue Ridge Mountains. Sadly received a late notice about the passing of Brother Rat Chico Gates from Hap Miller. Chico died in January 2021. His obituary is as follows: “Mr. Willard V. ‘Chico’ Gates Jr., a resident of Newton, died Wednesday evening, Jan. 6, 2021, in Flowers Hospital, Dothan. He was 83. Mr. Gates, son of the late Willard Vernon Gates Sr. and Billie Lorene Long Gates, was a native of Alexandria, Virginia. He joined the United States Navy and was stationed in Pensacola, Florida, where he received flight training and met his beloved wife. Mr. Gates lived in various locations while serving in the United States Navy. He was a graduate of Virginia Military Institute, where he received a Bachelor of Science degree in biology, and he also attended Washington Bible College.

Mr. Gates returned to Alexandria, Virginia, before becoming a missionary teacher at The Children’s Haven for 38 years. He moved to Newton in 2005 and was a member of the Newton Baptist Church, served as a deacon and adult Sunday school teacher, and was an ordained minister. Mr. Gates was preceded in death by two brothers-inlaw: Reverend Jerry L. Glover and Ernie Render.

Surviving relatives include his wife of 60 years, Charlotte Price Gates, Newton; four daughters, Carol Becker (Roger), Bristow, Virginia, Karen Stortenbecker (Bob), Midland City, Kathy Sawyer (Kevin), Abaco, Bahamas, and Nancy Rotthoff (Richard), Greenville, North Carolina; a son, John Gates (Leigh Ann), Warner Robbins, Georgia; two brothers, Doug L. Gates (Ginger), Trinity, Florida, and Cliff Gates (Susan), Alexandria, Virginia; 15 grandchildren, Nicole, Makayla, Bryce, Jon, Bobby, Kristi, Karis, Zach, David, Josh, Aaron, Taylor, Christopher, Caleb, and Brendan; two sisters-in-law, Judy Glover, Newton and Patricia Render, Ozark; brother-in-law, Phil Price (Martha), Byron, Georgia; his Haven family; and several nieces and nephews. Grandsons will serve

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as active pallbearers. The family would like to thank the nurses and staff of SICU, 4th floor at Flowers Hospital for their exceptional care to Mr. Gates during his illness.”

On Aug. 20, I spoke with Steve Sewell with birthday wishes. He is well and hoping to be at our Reunion. Lenny Carmine had another birthday, but I’ve never been able to connect with him. We wish him many more birthdays.

On Aug. 28, I spoke with Jim Powell for his birthday. I could not catch up with twin brother John but left voicemail birthday wishes.

On Aug. 29, I spoke with Don Hammonds with birthday wishes. Don is dealing with longtime infirmities, but it was good to speak with him.

On Aug. 31, I spoke with Jim Pittman, who was driving in Maine when I caught up with him for birthday wishes. He is well. We are grateful to Jim for his help with our reunion booklet of deceased brother rats.

On Sept. 2, Joe Sisler had another birthday. He got a birthday call with wishes for more birthdays as well as hopes for good golf.

On Sept. 10, Alex Dunlap and Bill Knowles celebrated birthdays. They got email birthday wishes.

On Sept. 16, I had an email to and from Ed Marquette as he celebrated his next birthday.

On Sept. 18, Barry Worst had another birthday.

I wish I could speak or connect via email with Barry.

On Sept. 24, Mike Shoemaker celebrated his next birthday. Email wishes were sent.

Jon Quinn celebrated his next birthday Oct. 1.

John, sons, and one grandson came to our reunion.

On Oct. 3, Roy McLeod celebrated his next birthday. It was great to see Roy at the reunion.

George Uhlig had a birthday Oct. 5. We were able to sing to George from our reunion luncheon.

Ed Duncan had his next birthday Oct. 6. He got birthday wishes while at our reunion.

Ruth’s and my lives had been in turmoil from Sept. 7-13 while we moved from St. James, North Carolina, to Lexington, Virginia. We’ve settled in with boxes, finding space for any number of items, and learning our way around Lexington.

Phone: 910-409-9324, email: jasiii3962@ gmail.com. As I’ve said many times, please let me know about you. I don’t want to read from an obituary.

From Oct. 3-6, we had an incredible 61st Reunion. G.G. Phillips and his helpers, Peanuts Elliott, Bolling Williamson, Henry Brown, and Jim

Pittman, organized and made arrangements for an absolutely wonderful time. We had 35, give or take two or three, classmates with three widows.

The schedule, venues, transportation, and events made our trip to Lexington very special. I must admit that one of the highlights of my time as an alumnus was when Jack Willard and I climbed to the top of the sentinel box, with help, of course, and shared in an Old Yell for the Class of ’60. I shall never forget it! G.G. Phillips worked so hard and long to set up our time together, and we shall always be grateful. Further, I enjoyed seeing folks I had only spoken with on their birthdays. Again, let’s stay in touch. During our class meeting, our remembrance of deceased brother rats was led by prayers from Rev. Ed Davis.

The Bayliss Scholarship from our class was presented by Mrs. Reba Bayliss and Col. Phil Cooper, commander of the Air Force ROTC department.

This year’s recipient is 1st Class Cadet Christopher Hulburt ’22. Col. Cooper’s comments are as follows: “Good Morning, I am Colonel Phil Cooper, the VMI PAS and AFROTC Detachment 880 commander. I want to thank Mrs. Reba Bayliss and the 1960 brother rats of Captain Paul ‘Eagle’ Bayliss for their generosity in providing for the education of an Air Force cadet each year through this memorial scholarship. It is because of servants like Eagle and the sacrifices they made to this country that we enjoy the freedoms we do today. This scholarship gives us the ability to recognize future servants and leaders who are willing to fight for these freedoms and, if called upon, to make the ultimate sacrifice. Paul Martin Bayliss matriculated to VMI from Alexandria, Virginia, in 1956. Known as ‘Eagle’ by his brother rats, he persevered as a private throughout his cadetship.

He graduated in 1960 with a degree in civil engineering and a commission in the United States Air Force. Beginning in 1962, he served as an instructor pilot flying the T-37, T-33, and T-38 before he joined the 606th Air Commando Squadron and flew T-28s modified for the ground-attack mission against the Ho Chi Minh Trail. Next month will make 55 years since Eagle made the ultimate sacrifice for our American freedoms. During his cadetship, Paul Bayliss was good-natured, enthusiastic, fun-loving yet a hard worker and, from what I have gathered from talking with a few of his brother rats, a bit mischievous. He was the type of cadet who provided the levity needed to get through tougher times at the Institute. Each year since 2015, the Class of 1960 has honored a

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Class Notes recipient who portrays the character and fortitude that Eagle embodied. In honoring these cadets, they recognize those who are entering the demanding field of military aviation and encourage these young people to become leaders in the U.S. Air Force.

“Past recipients include the 2015 recipient, Captain Tiffany A. Haines ’15, who is now a mobility pilot flying C-130s at Dyess Air Force Base.

The 2016 recipient, Captain Andrew Day ’16, is now a B-1 pilot. The 2017 recipient, lst Lieutenant Tristan Silverstorf ’18, is now a fighter pilot flying F-15Es at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base. The 2018 recipient, 2nd Lieutenant Charles Remig ’19, has made it to T-38 training at Vance Air Force Base, which means he will get a fighter upon graduation. The 2019 recipient, 2nd Lieutenant William Neikirk ’20, is at pilot training at Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoma. And the 2020 recipient, 2nd Lieutenant Travis Room ’21, will depart for combat systems officer training soon.

In tracing the success of these distinguished recipients, I think Eagle would be proud to know his memory lives on in their character and service.

“This year’s recipient is Cadet Christopher Hulburt ’22. Cadet Hulburt is in his 1st Class year and has been awarded a combat systems officer slot upon graduation and commissioning. A history major from El Paso, Texas, Cadet Hulburt is one of our finest cadets. I got to witness him personally at field training this summer, and all of his trainers commented on his natural leadership ability and his calm and cool demeanor that was infectious to others around him. This made him the natural choice to be our cadet group commander for field training prep to help our 3rd Class cadets get ready to succeed at field training next summer. I can think of no finer a cadet who reflects the nature of what this scholarship represents “Mrs. Bayliss, if you could please come up and present the citation to Cadet Hulburt.

“Cadet Hulburt, the floor is yours.”

Cadet Hulburt’s comments: “Colonel Cooper, detachment staff, Mrs. Bayliss, brother rats of the Class of 1960, my own brother rats, and esteemed guests: Thank you for attending today’s ceremony and allowing me the opportunity to extend my gratitude for receiving this award. In preparing for today, I did my best to research Captain Bayliss’ time as a cadet at VMI and as a pilot in the 606th Air Commando Squadron. In doing so, I found that ‘The Eagle’ had more than his fair share of excitement and adventures while at the ‘I,’ to

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include flying out his window and hanging from the parapet. While much has changed on post, I’m glad to say that my brother rats and I still enjoy many of the (harmless) antics that Captain Bayliss and many of you here today partook in during your cadetship.

“When this scholarship was first awarded to Captain Tiffany Haines, VMI Class of 2015, Mr. Williamson remarked that ‘beneath Eagle’s happy-go-lucky exterior was a steel spine and streak of determination a mile wide ... embodying what VMI creates in each of its alumni: Patriots with the heart, commitment, and determination of a warrior.’

“Although I did not have the privilege to meet Captain Bayliss, I am witness to the respect and admiration that you all have for him and the traits that you all share as brother rats. I chose to attend VMI because of the influence of my grandfather, U.S. Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel Don T. Reed ’64, had on my life. Like Captain Bayliss, ‘D.T.’ had many of his own adventures while being a cadet—spending many Saturday nights at the Stonewall Lounge behind the College Inn downtown and marching even more penalty tours after missing a stick check with his high school sweetheart and my grandmother, Diane Reed. Although my grandfather eventually succumbed to prostate and bladder cancer because of exposure to napalm and Agent Orange in Vietnam, I am certain that his grit, determination, and pride in serving his country was shared by Captain Bayliss and each of the men who left VMI and found themselves in East Asia shortly after.

“I was told that I would be receiving this award on the most fateful night of my cadetship thus far.

I had been attending Air Force field training at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, when Colonel Cooper notified me that my father had passed away in an accident in Texas. It has taken me several months to reconcile both pieces of news from that night, and I hope to share with you what I have finally realized. I believe that great good can come from great tragedy. In both my losing my father and in your losing a beloved husband, father, brother rat, and serviceman, no words can soothe the pain of grief. It takes time to cope with loss and to find ways to honor our loved ones and the lives they lived well while here. In your case, that has meant rallying behind the Bayliss family and commemorating Eagle’s sacrifice in a new generation of VMI cadets and Air Force officers. In my own, it has meant and continues to mean being grateful for

the blessings that VMI has provided me and striving to embody the examples of service, devotion, and pride that men like Captain Bayliss and my grandfather provided in their lives after ‘Mother I.’ To put it simply, I cannot convey enough how grateful I am for your generosity. To the Bayliss family and to the Class of 1960, thank you for keeping Eagle’s legacy alive in the Cadet Corps and in the Air Force. To Colonel Cooper and our detachment’s staff, thank you for investing in my cadetship and my future career as a combat systems officer. I pledge to commit myself to Captain Bayliss’ example and to live a life worthy of his service and sacrifice. For now, I hope that you enjoy your time on post and that your time together is spent remembering your carefree yet steadfast brother rat. Thank you.”

In addition to Reba Bayliss, we were fortunate to have two other widows at our reunion, Mrs. Bob Clay, Lucy, accompanied by their son, Bob Clay III ’88, and Mrs. Jack Horgan, Nancy.

Bob Clay III sent our class the following email: “To the brother rats of the Class of 1960, I want to thank you for the honor and the privilege of attending the 61st Reunion as an escort to my mother, Lucy Clay, and Jack’s widow, Nancy Horgan.

Your compassion and warm-hearted welcome turned what could have been a difficult time emotionally into another memory to be cherished of good times shared with a brotherhood that takes care of its own. My mom has known you all for years. Some of you I have known my whole life; others I only recently met after my dad’s passing, though I have heard stories which included many of you. Thank you for sharing your memories of my dad with me and my mother.

“Again, I thank you for including us and, more than that, making us feel part of your special class.

It’s like having two sets of BRs for me. With warm regards, Bob R.E. Clay III.” On Oct. 12, Seaborn “Seafus” Brown in Sarasota, Florida, had his next birthday. Seafus and his wife, Pril, and I had a long phone conversation regarding the Institute today with all the changes that have taken place over the years and recently. He got birthday wishes with wishes for many more birthdays.

On Oct. 14, sadly, I received the news of the passing of Brother Rat Bob Gianella, who died Oct. 5. “G” was a special friend and fellow chemistry major. He would share his “care packages” with me while in barracks. He gave me my first pepperoni. His obituary—it’s a long one—is

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes as follows: “Robert (Bob) Gianella died Oct. 5, 2021, peacefully in his sleep with his wife by his side. There will be a celebration of life at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church Tuesday, Oct. 12, at 2 p.m., following a graveside service and a reception at the Gianella home. The Reverend Aaron M.G. Zimmerman, the rector of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, will preside.

“Bob, as he was known to friends and acquaintances, was born in Peekskill, New York, a small town in Westchester County. It is located in one of the most enchanting areas of America on the mountains overlooking the Hudson River Valley. His grandparents were immigrants from the Lake Como district in Italy. He was a proud member of the Boy Scouts and Explorer Scouts.

Bob cherished being a Boy Scout and embraced the positive values of that organization. He attended a Catholic elementary school and graduated from Peekskill High School in 1956. He was the president of the student body and participated in football, baseball, and basketball athletics. Bob was voted the most handsome guy in the high school. He was proud to represent New York state at the National Conference of Christians and Jews.

Although West Point Academy is a few miles from Bob’s boyhood home, he rejected that path and chose Virginia Military Institute in Lexington, Virginia. Bob stated that his experience at VMI was the most challenging he ever encountered. He was president of the Office of the Guard Association at VMI in 1960 and president of the chemistry club in 1960. He graduated with honors from VMI in 1960 and later became a member of the U.S. Army Association. Bob served as a captain in the Air Force at the Air Force Plant 66, Rocketdyne in McGregor, Texas, from 1960-63 with Air Force Systems Command. During the Cuban Missile Crisis under President J.F. Kennedy, Bob received urgent orders to fly to Mira Loma, California, to be a liaison project officer for the Solid Propellant Air Launch Missile Systems when the world stood still in fear of a World War III. Bob and Betty met in Waco, Texas, in 1962. It was a chance meeting in a restaurant. He was a handsome and charming second lieutenant in the Air Force. Betty was a young divorcée with a small child who taught school at Valley Mills High School. For her, it was a spellbinding fascination of his outrageous humor. She married him because he made her laugh.

They married April 17, 1965. In 1971, Bob became president and owner of Davis Coffee Company. The headquarters were in Waco with branch

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offices in Tyler, Austin, and Abilene, Texas. Bob became regional institutional foods master distributer of General Foods & Beverage Corporation.

He was appointed president of Distributer Council of General Foods from 1981-87 and became a member of General Foods Beverage Advisory Board from 1989-94. We were fortunate enough to be invited to attend the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary, Canada, and the Masters in Augusta, Georgia. As far as travels go, we both loved Italy and found Paris to be a dream come true.

“Bob became program director for Inner City Ministries from 1971-79. He presided over Inner City Ministry summer camps in 1979. He became planning chairman for indigent children. He and Betty volunteered and worked for Inner City Ministries in the 1970s. Bob was appointed as a member of Hillcrest Baptist Medical Center Development Board. He became chairman of HBMC of Visitors in 1999. He participated in the Vision of Excellence program of HBMC. Bob and Betty donated rooms for the Kidsville project for HBMC. He was appointed treasurer for HBMC Foundation from 2004-06. Bob and Betty and family joined St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in 1968. Bob served on the vestry for three years at St. Alban’s: 1974-75 and 1983-85. He served as senior warden at St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in 1976. Bob and Betty became patron members of the Art Center, the Lyric Opera of Waco, and the Waco Symphony Association, and the Waco Historic Foundation.

They both served as chairmen in the Art Auction ‘Air of the Orient’ in 1979. Bob and Betty became members of Ridgewood Country Club, and he became president of RCC in 1998. Bob was a prolific reader with interests in history ranging from ancient Roman and Greek times through the Civil War. He was a scholar of Stonewall Jackson and gave presentations on his life. He was also a collector of art, books, canes, hats, and ancient coins.

Bob was most proud of his Italian heritage. After investigating his lineage, Gabrielle, his daughter, traveled to Italy to research the Gianella genealogy and discovered that he is descended from a lineage of noble counts. He was so moved that he made T-shirts, hats, jackets, and flags to demonstrate his family crest of nobility. Bob was many things to many people: An actor, optimist, humorist, salesman, philanthropist, historian, polymath, and benevolent to the impecunious and the disenfranchised.

“I have saved the best for last: Bob’s humor. He had an outrageous sense of humor! Bob could

spin a tail off a donkey. He could pull off practical jokes and witty stories in a New York minute. He was so convincing that he convinced a waiter that his pet poodle was a little man in a dog suit at a local diner. After a long explanation, he convinced the waiter that our dog was indeed a little man in a dog suit, and we were able to stay and have lunch and share our food with our pet dog. Bob was really good at imitation. He could become a kooky character as fast as I would say, ‘You can’t do that!’ and his character would reply, ‘You wanna bet?’

“His sense of humor and imagination can be illustrated by the following story he narrated: ‘On a warm Friday morning in June 1975, Betty and I were getting ready for a trip to the National Restaurant Association convention in Chicago, Illinois. However, we were running a little late, but I knew we would be on time for our flight out of the DFW airport. My loving, perfect wife told me that we would not be on time for the flight. So, I bet her $100 we would be on the flight. She accepted the bet. After a very safely driven trip from Woodway to DFW airport, we found our flight to Chicago in process of leaving the gate. So, I realized I have to become imaginative—very imaginative! I became Doctor Robert J. Gianella, the head of brain surgery at the Baylor Medical Center, Houston, Texas. I told the rather negative airline agent that I had to meet my surgical team in Chicago at the Chicago University Center to perform surgery on the chief executive officer of Sears and Roebuck Corp. The CEO was suffering from a massive tumor on his brain and if not operated on by me and my team before 8:30 p.m. that night, the patient would die. Next, I informed the agent that his management would not be very happy with him when they were informed that he was responsible for the CEO’s death. I guaranteed him I would inform his supervisors that a huge lawsuit would occur against his airline and him

by Sears and Roebuck if he refused to help save the patient’s life. The agent thought about the situation for about five seconds and proceeded to call back our flight to the gate and put us on the flight.

At this point, Betty looked extremely concerned about my going to jail—not missing the flight.

I told Betty, ‘Big, big lies usually work—small lies, not so much.’ And boy! Were we (really me) involved in a hell of a big lie! While we waited for the plane to return to the gate, I kept flexing my fingers and looking into a blank notebook. I thought that is what a brain surgeon would do.

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Class Notes 2.

3.

1.

5.

6.

4.

8.

Class of 1960 1. Pete McGue at the reunion.

2. Jack and Anneliese Willard at our reunion.

3. Toot Barr and Cecile at the reunion.

7.

4. Walt Witchard and his son, Kevin.

9.

10.

5. Howard and Susan Moss at our reunion.

6. Sam Horner and his daughter, Helen, at the reunion.

7. Jim Pittman and Carl and Barbara Benner.

8. Carl and Barbara Benner at reunion.

9. 1st Class Cadet Christopher Hulburt ’22, 2021 Bayliss Award winner.

10. G.G. and Frances Phillips, our reunion chairman, at our reunion.

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Once we boarded the plane, the flight attendant announced anyone giving up their seat would receive $400 and a ticket on the next flight to Chicago. Betty ended up getting a seat in first class. I was seated in the tourist section between two halfdrunk restaurant owners from Texas. Of course, they wanted to know who I was and why I was so influential to get a plane to return to the gate.

I told them my cover story and they would see in the Chicago airport signs of my name to take me directly to the Medical Center. Those two guys said they were Roman Catholic and were worried if the pope would live, as he was recently shot in Rome. I flexed my fingers, gazed up to the ceiling and then informed them: ‘The pope will live!’

They were thrilled and wanted to buy me a drink or three. I cordially refused because I had to perform major surgery in a few hours. P.S. If I tried this today, I would now be in prison forever. Thank you, 9/11—you rats ruined so much fun!’

“An enormous thank you to Doctor Gary Barbin for providing outstanding medical care throughout most of his adult life. Endless gratitude to his wonderful and loving caregivers: Patricia Essmail, primary caregiver and an extraordinary person of many talents, and the very patient and compassionate Amari Hill of Visiting Angels. Bob was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ann Gianella.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; two children, Stephanie Connell and husband, Stephen, and Doctor Gabrielle Gianella and partner, Cinthya Rogers; three grandchildren, Christian Connell, of Houston, Texas, and Isabella Connell and Debbie Guzman, of Austin, Texas. He had many close friends in Waco and relatives in Peekskill, New York.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be sent to St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, 305 N. 30th St., Waco, Texas 76710 or The Humane Society of Central Texas, 2032 Circle Rd, Waco, Texas 76706.”

On Oct. 20, Jack Willard had another birthday.

He celebrated with golfing buddies eating stone crabs. Roy Quinn also had a birthday, but I was unable to get in touch. We wish him well.

On Oct. 21, I spoke with Bill Spicuzza and wished him another birthday wish with wishes for many more.

On Oct. 27, Frank Ferrier celebrated another birthday with family. He is a retired cardiothoracic surgeon in Atlanta.

On Oct. 29, I celebrated my 83rd birthday with a birthday dinner at the Bistro in Lexington with Ruth, and Steve and Peggy Riethmiller ’63. I

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gratefully received numerous birthday emails and phone calls.

On Nov. 2, Jay Jarrett celebrated his next birthday. Jay got a phone call with a voicemail message.

On Saturday, Nov. 6, I was unable to speak with Fudd Caldwell on his next birthday. We hope Fudd’s health is improving.

On Nov. 8, I spoke with Bob “Railroad” Hamilton to wish him a happy birthday with wishes for more birthdays. Railroad lives near Saginaw, Michigan. He is well.

On Nov. 11, I sent voicemail and email birthday wishes to George Colbourn. George is doing all he can to stay healthy. We missed him at the reunion.

This brings this edition of our class notes to a close. We were allowed only 10 photos for this edition—usually allowed five—so I randomly picked those you see. Jim Pittman took several pics, so we have plenty for future editions of class notes. Continue to support our VMI along with our Bayliss Scholarship. Your generosity is gratefully appreciated.

Please stay in touch.

In the Spirit, Jimbo

1961

Sal Vitale Jr.

The 60th Reunion is behind us, and as far as I know, none of the BRs, spouses, widows, or sons and daughters of our BRs who attended contracted COVID-19. Amen! Sue and I arrived Saturday to set things up, and Sunday, 52 early arrivals enjoyed dinner at the Southern Inn. Corri R. Sensabaugh, associate director for reunions, was my guest. Corri was in charge of the VMI bus transportation for our class, and she did a great job. Monday morning, Bronnie Polk and Mary Callander assisted Sue Vitale with registration at Natural Bridge. The class golf outing was underway at the Vista Links Golf Club in Buena Vista.

Spike Callander organized the golfers into four teams—Team A: Clayton Smith, Rod Hudgins, Dave Harbach, and Richard Stone ’88; Team B: Bob Polk, Lou Kiger, Di Stone, and Jan Smith; Team C: J.C. Miller, Jim Miner, Jim Bickford,

and Rhett Clarkson; and Team D: Spike Callander, Robert Williamson, and Randolph “Rickie” Williamson ’88. The weather was OK, and a few BRs played 18 holes and others only nine. Spike awarded prizes for low score to Smith, Hudgins, Harbach, and Stone ’88. David Harbach, who started playing golf in the spring, was crowned the “rookie of the year.” Monday evening, several of us attended the Alumni Association-sponsored dinner. We were one of the larger classes there, and I enjoyed seeing the 1960 guys. Boy, they got old.

(Smile.) Monday night, our Natural Bridge hospitality room had its first workout.

Tuesday morning, after a great buffet breakfast, we boarded buses provided by VMI to attend our memorial service at Memorial Hall. The ceremony began with the pledge of allegiance, something we should do more often. The program was designed to remember those brother rats who, in September 1957, signed the VMI Matriculation Book and now are with their creator. Bill Maurer, cadet vice president of the VMI Religious Council and deacon at his church, read the 134 names of the deceased brother rats. Bill has had this role of reading the list at reunions for more years than I can remember. The program continued with a special tribute to those brother rats who were cited for gallantry in combat. The VMI Hall of Valor displays the awards of 27 of our brother rats who received the nation’s highest awards for heroism, valor, and self-sacrifice in a time of war. Fourteen of them have gone to their heavenly reward. Brother Rat John Tharrington read all their names and citations and reminded us that four brother rats died in Vietnam: Capts. Pete Kleinberg, Denis Nicholas, Mickey Runyon, and David Spearman. John said two of our BRs have been honored with the second-highest award for extraordinary heroism: Mike Bissell, Distinguished Service Cross, and Bill Dabney, Navy Cross. Mike also received the Air Medal for valor. Eight of our brother rats were awarded the Silver Star, and Hershel Murray was awarded the first Silver Star for action in Vietnam

by Gen. William Westmoreland. Two Silver Stars were awarded to Hershel Murray and Jim Berger. Nine brother rats received the Distinguished Flying Cross, yet only eight are in the Hall of Valor. During John’s research, he discovered that Bill “Snake” Daniels’ Distinguished Flying Cross was missing. I hope Bill will forgive us for exposing his bravery, for I know he prefers to put it all behind him. The record has been corrected. Seven BRs were awarded the Bronze Star Medal with

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Class of 1961: Fred Ayers, Jim Bickford, Robert Callander, Rhett Clarkson, Bill Daniels, Ed Doleman, Wyatt Durrette, Howard Dyer, Ed Fox, Harrison Fridley, Raine Gilbert, Paul Goldman, Hugh Gouldthorpe, Ray Hanlein, Dave Harbach, Lynn Hartford, George Henning, Willard Hoskins, Rod Hudgins, Paul Johnston, Bill Keech, Lou Kiger, Mitch Kot, Bill Maurer, Jack Miller, John Miller, Jim Miner, Kent Modine, Andy Myruski, Jim Needham, Barry Orndorff, Bill Phillips, Tom Phlegar, Robert Polk, Bob Reitz, Clayton Smith, Holmes Smith, Ashby Taylor, Dave Thomas, Sal Vitale, Larry Wetsel, Larry Williams, Robert Williamson, and Dick Youngblood.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes the “V” for acts of valor in combat, and several had more than one “V.” As John was preparing his comments, he discovered that Bill Powell’s Bronze Star Medal with a “V” was missing, and this has been corrected. We have three BRs awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal for heroic or meritorious service in combat and two for the Army Commendation Medal. Finally, 16 brother rats received the Purple Heart, which is the oldest military award presented and is a solemn distinction. A special thanks to Col. Keith Gibson ’77 who assisted John in the research to validate the missing citations. At the conclusion of John’s presentation, taps was played by Tom Phlegar. Should you want a copy of the citation list, email John Tharrington. No reunion is complete without remembering Brother Rat Jonathan Daniels.

Those who knew Jonathan the best were Bill Braithwaite and Lee Badgett. Unfortunately, neither was available, so I asked David Harbach to volunteer to speak about Jonathan. David completed his research, and he selected a speech given by Lee Badgett to the VMI Corps of Cadets on the occasion of the dedication of Daniels Arch. It was very appropriate. The Memorial Hall program concluded with a member from the families of Dickey Stone, Doug Popp, and Oscar Mabry talking about their fathers and thanking the class for remembering them.

They were Mitch Stone ’88, Timothy Popp ’98, and Courtney Mabry Graves. Courtney played a taped conversation of Oscar’s last words to the family. I know their fathers were proud of them. Keith Gibson attended the Class of ’61 memorial service and said it was very moving and inspiring. The class was invited to attend a ceremony in Memorial Garden for the spreading of ashes of our three departed brother rats. Col. Bob Phillips ’87, VMI chaplain, conducted the service, and the families—Di Stone, April Stone Minish, Michelle Stone McCadams, Mitch Stone ’88, Kirsten Stone, Timothy Popp ’98, Caroline Mabry, Candice Mabry McAuliffe, and Courtney Mabry Graves—spread the ashes while a VMI bagpiper, Cadet Ted Harris ’23, played “Amazing Grace.” At the conclusion of the service, Tom Phlegar played taps. Corri Sensabaugh, associate director for reunions, facilitated the trip for non-walkers from Memorial Hall to the Center for Leadership and Ethics for lunch by providing a fleet of golf carts with drivers and small buses to transport us, and it

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was greatly appreciated. Bill and Marci Keech arrived at VMI Tuesday morning just in time for the Memorial Hall activity. Bill can do very little walking, and he was very concerned about how he could get around. I mentioned Keech’s issue to Corri, and she arranged for a golf cart and driver to meet him in the CLE parking lot to carry Bill and Marci to all events. Again, thanks, Corri.

When everyone was seated for lunch, Bill Daniels said grace. We enjoyed lunch, especially since there were no speeches. Caroline Mabry wanted to celebrate Oscar’s life with his brother rats, and knowing how Oscar liked his dessert, the Mabry family suggested mimosas to enjoy along with our dessert. No one objected, and we toasted Oscar. (Smile.) At lunch, we were joined by several sons and grandsons of brother rats, to include Colin Whitehouse ’92, Roy Whitehouse’s son; Rob Crow ’88, Stu Crow’s son; and Larry Wetsel’s grandson, Cadet Cache Douma ’24. They all enjoyed the “Old Corps” storytelling. We had free time following lunch, and I decided to sit on “my bench,” which was in the shade, and talk to cadets as they were coming and going to class. What fun! Col. John Brodie (Hon) arranged for a tour of the new band room, and several former Band Company cadets, Andy Myruski, Tom Phlegar, Ray Hanlein, Hugh Gouldthorpe, Barry Orndorff, Robert Williamson, and Band Company member at heart Harbach, attended. The facility is first class. The class picture was taken in front of Preston Library and getting everyone lined up with their hats removed and sunglasses off was no different from other times—a pain. However, the picture looks great. A second picture was taken with the ladies and all our sons and daughters.

Parade time arrived, and Tom Phlegar and Rhett Clarkson gathered those who could walk, formed up, and led us past the reviewing stand toward barracks. Those who had difficulty walking used the sidewalk and golf carts, but many marched—or, in my case, almost marched—to the courtyard. If it had not been for Willard Hoskins, who grabbed me under my left arm, and Jack “J.D.” Miller on my right arm, I would have fallen and not made it to the arch. The class was assigned a spot in the corner of the courtyard where we watched the “real old-timers” work their way up the ladder for their Old Yell. (’60 struggled). Tom Phlegar volunteered to

climb to the top of the sentinel box and lead the ’61 Old Yell. Tom climbed up so quickly that the Corps cheered him. While on top, Tom gave the Corps our ’61 rat history (still not out of the Rat Line story) and then led what was, in my view, the loudest of all the Old Yells given that day.

Great job, Tom. Soon after the Old Yell, we boarded buses back to Natural Bridge to attend our class banquet. This reunion was a little different than those in the past. First, a good number of BRs did not go to Lexington to participate in the VMI post activities and only joined us for dinner. Second, we had wives missing due to illness. The final count for dinner was 112. The cocktail hour had plenty of hors d’oeuvres and unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks (cash bar for hard liquor). Mitch Kot gave the invocation and prayer, and we enjoyed a wonderful Natural Bridge buffet dinner. No one went to bed hungry. Several more BRs’ sons joined us for dinner: Matt Henning ’90 and his wife, Jill; Col. Gary Bissell ’88, escorting his mother, Jan Bissell; Col. Mitchell Fridley ’89; and Devon Mahoney ’92 and his wife, Amy. We were blessed that so many of our brother rats’ sons, daughters, and widows helped celebrate our 60th Reunion.

After dinner, the class unanimously adopted, by secret ballot, two resolutions advanced by Wyatt Durrette about Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62. I am very proud to report that the seconding of our resolutions by other classes has been well received, and as of Nov. 11, 2021, I have heard from classes from 1952-2021. Following this unprecedented action, we concluded the formal part of the dinner with a round of toasts. Our presenters were John C. Tharrington, the nation; Robert Reitz, the troops; Hugh F. Gouldthorpe, the Institute; Lawrence E. Wetsel Jr., the ladies; and John “J.C.” Miller, the class. David Harbach gathered former Glee Club members and led all of us in singing the “Doxology” and the “VMI Spirit.”

The time was getting late for some, while others found their way to the hospitality room and enjoyed themselves till who knows when?

Wednesday morning, we had our farewell breakfast. This is always a difficult time for me, as I know I may not see some of the brothers and sisters again. Finally, I will remain your class agent for another five years. I may be the longestserving class agent thanks to you. I have enjoyed being your class agent and will continue to try

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Class Notes very hard to keep the class informed.

There were 77 brother rats who signed up to attend, but then the cancelations started. Bill Gibbings was one of a few BRs who has attended all the reunions, but Joyce said Bill could not take the drive. Paul Johnston was coming alone until his wife’s injury; she went into such terrible pain that he could not leave her. Carl and Becky Hirsch had a last-minute medical issue and sent regrets. Carl is due for another operation to correct an old one. Irv Wells was coming with his son until Irv fell and cracked vertebrae in his neck. He has to wear a neck brace for the next two months and can only look straight ahead. Bill Nelms had dinner with Irv a week before the reunion and said Irv was in good spirits in spite of the neck brace and physical therapy. Sue Patrick was very concerned about COVID-19, as was Nancy Phillips, and Class of 1961: Members of the class with their families on the steps of Preston Library. opted out. Peggy Alligood Hayes recently had a knee replacement, and her knee was “act- not have to stay and attended the reunion. John walking, and Howard did not want to leave her ing up” (been there), so she opted out. Gaylia Gangemi sent his regrets. Irene has fallen sev- alone. Dianne pushed him out of the house and Hudgins felt sick enough to get a COVID-19 eral times, and John’s Parkinson’s also limits into his car. Thanks, Dianne; we enjoyed seeing test (negative) and thought it best not to come. his traveling. Hershel Murray is feeling great Howard. Warren “Dude” Copenhaver found Tom Bradshaw had pneumonia and had just re- as can be expected for a person having Parkinthe strength to come to the reunion in spite of the turned home after a week in the hospital. Home son’s. I talked to Hershel after the reunion, and recent loss of his wife, Kathy. Dude, along with care and physical therapy are keeping Tom tied he sounded great. Cinny and great doctors keep his brother, Trigg, joined us for the class dinner. up. Dunbar Hoskins said even though they are him going. Dave Elliott’s memory has dimin- He said Kathy will be interred at Arlington someOK, they are reluctant to travel. Jim Harrison time in the spring. Jack “J.D.” Miller also found ished to where Jude and the family have placed waited up to the last moment to face the reality Dave in assisted living. I talked to Jude after the strength to join us so soon after Jutta, his wife that he will not be able to attend our reunion. the reunion, and she said Dave smiled when of 59 years of marriage, passed. Jack said she was His balance issues are such that it’s not realistic he saw the VMI license plate frame. Jeanette in a nursing home for four-and-a-half years, and for him to attend. Dave Bella “graduated from Smith was under the weather, so Holmes came due to COVID-19, he could not visit. To overcardio rehab” a couple of months ago. He’s do- alone. If Jan saw how Holmes dressed himself, come this obstacle, Jack accepted a position at ing fine but concerned about traveling. Archie she would have had a fit. He sure missed her. It the nursing home, and they allowed J.D. to see Ramirez could not travel because of issues with was questionable if Howard and Dianne Dyer and feed his wife. Jack is returning to the nursing arthritis of his right hip, right knee, and multiple would be at the reunion. Dianne has difficulty home as a full-time employee. Battle Haslam was spine stenosis. Archie scheduled a concerned about COVID-19 and large right total hip replacement surgery gatherings, as was Alison Drescher, so Oct. 26, 2021, (same day as my surtwo more regulars were missing. What gery) and possible complex spine kind of a reunion would it be without operations. Archie said, “Other than Don Kern? As reported in the last isthe above, I am doing well. I am sue, Don damaged his shoulder, and just having problems from emerghis driving is limited. Don arranged to ing from youth.” Bill and Sandra have his dyke (smile), Dorsey PendFout had a last-minute problem and er, drive to VMI. Well, Dorsey’s wife, could not drive. Ed Fox volunteered Madonna, got very sick, and Dorsey to drive Fout, but Ed’s son was indidn’t want to leave her, so they all volved in a bike accident and was put opted out. Dorsey stopped to see me in a hospital in North Carolina with a after my back operation. Guess what? concussion, broken rib, and fractured Class of 1961: At dinner with friends are (seated) Debbie Bailey, Cyn- Dorsey is an Uber driver and loves it. thia Deaton, Tom Rutledge, Sue Vitale, Joy Burnett, (standing) Pop wrist. Ed went to North Carolina to Bailey, Jerry Burnett ’62, and Sal Vitale.

What a surprise it was to hear from help his son, but fortunately, Ed did Ken Ayala that he is feeling better.

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 1.

2.

3.

6.

4.

7.

5.

Class of 1961 1. At the reunion march off to the courtyard are Tom Phlegar, guidon bearer; Rhett Clarkson, executive officer; and Dave Harbach, directing.

2. Bronnie Polk and Mary Callander at the reunion registration table at the Natural Bridge Hotel.

3. Former Glee Club members singing the “Doxology” are Dave Harbach, director; (front row) Ed Fox; Fred Ayers; Lynn Hartford; Ed Doleman; Bill Nelms; (second row) Jim Oliver (hidden); Larry Respess; Ben Lynch; Devon Mahoney ’92; and Stu Crow.

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4. Corri Sensabaugh, associate director for reunions, visits with Sal and Sue Vitale at the Southern Inn restaurant.

5. Attending the scattering of ashes of Richard “Dick” Stone in Memorial Garden are (front) Timothy Popp ’98, April Stone, Kirsten Stone, Mitch Stone ’88, Candice Mabry, (back) Di Stone, Michelle Stone, Caroline Mabry, and Courtney Mabry.

6. Family members of Richard “Dick” Stone scatter his ashes in Memorial Garden.

7. Bill Daniels says the blessing before the class lunch in Marshall Hall.

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Class Notes Also, Gerry Mollock appreciated the license plate attitude corrections. Rae is taking good care of Bissell ’89, and rat Mitchell Fridley ’89, who holder. John Moore has great difficulty walking him. Also using an engineered design walking remembered them. (Smile.) I have been followand now requires a motorized wheelchair. Until re- stick is Harold Kurstedt. Celia said he might be ing the career of Megan Elderly, Ken’s daughter. cently, John worked out at the gym, and he credits slow, but he gets there. Harrison Fridley gradu- The last time I saw her was at Mike Bissell’s his good health to regular exercise. I did not know ated from cane to walker and does OK. At our funeral at Arlington where she was assigned that one of John’s hobbies was wood carving, and 65th Reunion, will we have a walker race? Bill to the Military District Washington. Megan is he carved for me a wooden “pocket cross.” The Keech’s health changes day to day, and having now the deputy commander assigned to the Old wood came from an 80-year-old tree that was har- him at the reunion was a treat. After the reunion Guard at Arlington. I told Megan that we were planning an Arlington trip, and she said to let vested in 1934 and was in storage ever since. The Keech, Mitchell ’62, Peay ’62, and spouses had cross is beautiful. I was so pleased to see Ben and an enjoyable evening together. George and Edna her know. With a little notice, she can probably Dianne Lynch at the reunion. Dianne must use a Henning had a mini reunion with their son, set up a wreath-laying in honor of the class at wheelchair, and Ben packed all she needed for re- Matt Henning ’90, and his wife, Jill, who they the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Megan can union into their car and came. They attended all the have not seen for over a year. Matt is the pas- also arrange a tour of the tomb and/or her favorfunctions at VMI and Natural Bridge. Ron McNe- tor at Community of Grace Church in Grayson, ite part of the Old Guard quarters, the caisson stables and horses. Megan can be reached mar has his hands full with caring for Fran. at mvge@me.com. Megan said that most She requires Ron’s full-time attention, and days at work, she thinks about how much hospice is a great help. Fran retains her good her dad, Ken, would have been amazed by humor, but she cannot communicate verbally the Old Guard and the fact that his little girl and cannot do anything for herself, including made it there at all. We are also proud of walking. What role models these BRs are. you. Dave Harbach was very proud to be There are those who will tell you that our invited to the promotion of one of his boys, class looks younger than the classes that folFurness ’87, who received his third star. lowed us, and looking into your faces during Marine Corps Lt. Gen. David J. Furness the reunion, I can certainly agree—maybe not is now assigned as deputy commandant for “certify” but agree. Those happy, young faces plans, policies, and operations, Headquarwho did manage to come to the reunion and ters, U.S. Marine Corps, Washington, D.C. come to mind are Fred and Caroline Ayers, I had the pleasure of meeting Gen. Furness who look great and are enjoying living several times and was very impressed. The in Wilmington, North Carolina, close to Saturday before the reunion, Dave invited their children. Dave Thomas, Wyatt Durthe Fouts, Foxes and Hartfords to the rette, Harrison Fridley, Mitch Kot, and Larry Wetsel never look old. Harbach Class of 1961: Tom Phlegar leading the Corps in the Old Dutch’s Daughter restaurant in Frederick, Maryland, for lunch, and they had a good fits in his cadet uniform, as does Maurer. Yell for ’61. time The Hartfords arrived at Dulles the Dyer still looks presidential, as do Ashby Taylor and J.C. Miller. Rhett Clarkson, Jim Georgia. It was also a family reunion for Stu Friday before the reunion and stayed with Dave.

The Hartfords are now living in their new “Peaches” Miner, Russell Stone, and Hugh Crow and his son, Rob Crow ’88, who lives in home, which is a third of the size of the former Gouldthorpe haven’t changed a bit. I can go Texas. Rob looks just like his dad. Devon Maon, but you get the point. Members of the foot- honey ’92 and his wife, Amy, had a great time one. After the reunion, Dave took a steamboat trip up the Mississippi River with a friend and ball team got together for a chat at the hotel and talking with BRs who knew his dad, Joe. Roy included Shuba, Haeberlein, Wetsel, Weede, Whitehouse wrote me that he was very pleased had a great time. His flight from Memphis back and Dyer. I can’t say they were ready to take that we invited Colin ’92 to represent Roy at the to Dulles was canceled several times, and he had the field, but who knows? (Smile.) Shuba had reunion. Colin called Roy when he got home, to stay an extra day in Memphis. Gerry Eubank back surgery Oct. 19 but is now home and do- and he was so excited about all the “Old Corps” has been staying at his place in upstate New ing OK. Lou’s staples were removed, and the guys he met and talked to. I think it was Har- York to be away from the virus. Gerry missed doc said he can start to do things he has always bach who said Colin was “a lot more fun” than attending the August promotion ceremony at done but very carefully. I hear that Pris has a list Roy, and I had to agree! Colin said that he plans Fort Meade, Maryland, for his son, Maj. Gen. of easy stuff like pulling bulbs for winter storage. to be at our 65th with his dad, and Roy agreed. Christopher L. Eubank ’91, the incoming NETJohn Tharrington had knee surgery right after Timothy Popp ’98 represented the youngest COM commanding general. I saw the virtual the reunion, came home from the hospital, and class returning, and he was so glad to be with his promotion ceremony.

Harvey Curlee is doing great. Joanne’s knees climbed a flight of stairs to his bedroom. Paul dad’s BRs. I hear that Tim will be taking over are still bothering her, and her knee replacement Goldman has a balance problem, but that didn’t his dad’s business. As it turned out, several of stop him from enjoying himself. Paul carries a the sons attending our reunion are brother rats, in April 2020 was canceled due to COVID-19.

The Curlees returned from Colorado to Texas big walking stick, and he uses it for balance and like Mitch Stone ’88 and Rob Crow ’88, Gary

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes in late September. Sue and I wanted to visit Tom Rutledge’s family farm in Chase City, Virginia, and finally did. The farm has been in Tom’s family for more than 200 years and was a tobacco farm.

Tom now raises Black Angus cattle. Tom hosted dinner and invited Jerry and Joy Burnett ’62; Tom’s friend, Cynthia Deaton; and his farm manager, Pop Bailey and Debbie Bailey. The house and grounds are overflowing with history. It was a spectacular weekend.

Sue and I made a reservation to attend Dickey Stone’s service in South Port after the reunion, but at the last minute, we canceled. I was so tired after the reunion that I didn’t want to take the chance of driving and falling asleep at the wheel as I did coming home from Lexington. The celebration of Dick’s life was at St. Phillip’s Episcopal Church, and six BRs were there: Fred and Carolyn Ayers, Ashby and Sandra Taylor, Clayton and Jan Smith, Ray and Sally Hanlein, Warren Copenhaver, and Hugh Gouldthorpe. A reception followed the service. Suzanne Carmichael extends her sincere appreciation to those brother rats who have contributed to the scholarship established in Mike’s name by Paul Robblee ’66. “On last check, the total amount had risen to over $40,000. Mike would be so very grateful, as is our entire family.”

Pete and Carol Roberts took a trip to Iceland and experienced today’s realities of travel while living with COVID-19 around them. Everyone on the Iceland trip had to be vaccinated, both passengers and crew of the small boat they were on. At home in Florida, Pete and Carol Roberts and Hill and Heather Browning play trivia every month on competing teams. Hill and Heather are a powerful team. The Brownings had a nice lunch with Jack and Nancy Bell, and Hill said Jack looks great for a guy with 23 stents. Frank Oley (he is still with us) calls Jack the “Tin Man.” Bill Hala never made it out of Canada until after our reunion. Even though the border is open to Americans, it is still closed to Canadians going south by auto. Bill is finally back home in New York. Judd McLester and Suzy are still together. I do not know why they didn’t attend the reunion. As far as I know, he is in good health.

My rat roommate, Tom Whalen, is waiting for the white stuff to cover the mountain slopes. At his age, he should use a sled, not skis. Holmes Smith, Jim Needham, and Dick Youngblood can’t stop working. Needham is in the contracting business, and Youngblood is assisting his daughter in developing another high-end housing development.

Smith is the oldest active surveyor in Virginia.

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The Wetsels have finally moved into their new home in Williamsburg. I do not know how well the actual move went because Larry left Jerry to deal with all that “stuff” so he could attend the Samford versus VMI football game in Lexington, and the Keydets won. I checked the Virginia obits and did not see anything about Wetsel’s demise.

This year, my partner turned 80 years young, and we had her birthday in St. Marten at our timeshare, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, which is on the Dutch side. I will not bore you with what we had to go through with updating passports, shots within a specific time frame, etc. To get the passports on time for the flight out, we had to engage a Maryland congressman’s help, even though we paid to have the passports expedited. Instead of being processed in D.C., they were somewhere in New Hampshire, and that was a little far to just go and pick them up. For those traveling to St. Marten, you will be pleased to see the progress the airport and Dutch have made since the storm and COVID-19. The French side is not doing so well and instituted an 8 p.m. curfew, and many of our favorite restaurants are still closed. Sue had a great time, and our favorite jewelry store was so pleased to have us back they arranged for a bus to pick the family up (15 of us) and had a birthday cake waiting for Sue. Returning to the USA was stressful, as many airline support folks had not returned to work.

A special thanks to Raine and Clara Gilbert for the wonderful effort they made in providing old reunion picture prints for us to take home and also provided a thumb drive containing pictures from our 55th Reunion and distributed them to those attending the reunion. Raine took many of the pictures used for these notes. Let’s not forget Tom Phlegar for volunteering to play taps for Memorial Hall and Memorial Garden ceremonies, as well as carrying the ’61 guidon to the Old Barracks courtyard and leading us and the Corps in the Old Yell for ’61. Tom is always there when the class needs him.

Some late news: Bill Maurer was awarded the Chancellor Robert Livingston Medal for his outstanding contributions in the field of Masonic literature and writing. Ed Dolman’s book, “Arlene’s Gun,” was recently reviewed by Hollywood for a possible movie.

Attached to an email sent to you months ago was the link for a video taken in Memorial Hall the Tuesday morning of our reunion. The video was made possible by the Cadet newspaper, and

the filmmaker was B. Morris ’79. The comments to date have been very favorable. Also, the Cadet newspaper is trying to make a comeback. The link is cadetnewspaper.org/video.

Roger Spencer, our class historian, emailed me that he will not be participating in the 60th Reunion. Roger remembers, “The best parts of reunions are the big table dinner and breakfast conversations, and the times to talk on the bus, in the parade, or at the bar, and of course golf with friends who play the game as badly as I do. We talk about old times, family, and ailments. We all, husbands and wives of age, have ailments. Some permit travel; some don’t. A new topic is likely to intrude this year: Politics—Institute politics, government politics, and your neighbor’s politics. Our good fortune as a class will continue to hold, as most of this will be resolved after our time. Enjoy our 60th Reunion moments together, and ditch the politics because this, too, shall pass.”

I am out of space. Please keep those who were not with us in your prayers. God bless our country class, troops, and VMI. Keep the faith. We shall prevail.

1962

Monty Williams Jerry Burnett

I hope all had a nice holiday season and a happy new year. By now, you should have received the registration information for our 60th Reunion, and I hope all can attend. If you haven’t received the information, please contact me so I can provide it to you. On Sunday, April 24, 2022, there will be early registration at the Best Western, Hunt Ridge, from 1500-1700 and an informal dinner at 1800. Breakfast Monday, April 25, 2022, will be on your own. Reunion registration will be at VMI from 0800-1745. There will be golf at Vista Links in Buena Vista from 1000 to 1500 and tours at VMI at 1000 with VMI Alumni Agencies cocktails and dinner from 1700-2000.

On Tuesday, April 26, 2022, there will be a class meeting and memorial service. Lunch will be on

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Class Notes

Class of 1962: Edmund Strickler’s new Virginia license plates.

Class of 1962: Candy and Cammy Wagner.

Class of 1962: Helena Bobbitt with her mother.

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your own with a class picture at 1535. The parade will be at 1630. We will have a class dinner at 1900. On Wednesday, April 27, 2022, there will be a farewell breakfast.

Byrd Rawlings passed away Aug. 18, 2021, surrounded by family at his home in Asheville, North Carolina. Byrd was born Nov. 4, 1939, in Richmond, Virginia. He was the firstborn son of William Byrd Rawlings and Isabel Sayres Rawlings and is survived by his brother, Peter Rawlings, and sisters, Isabel Cohen, Ann Colby, and Polly Hamel. He graduated from St. Christopher’s School in Richmond, Virginia. Byrd was a wonderful husband who married the true love of his life, Sandra Burton, “his blondie.” Together, they shared 61 years of wedded bliss and raised four children. Byrd was a devoted husband and father and dear friend by all that knew him.

He truly was a Virginia gentleman. Byrd was an avid golfer who had a remarkable seven holes in one. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Rawlings; his four children, Byrd Rawlings III (Jenny), Lee Johnson (Jeff), Paige Alspaugh (Dean), and Scotty Rawlings (Kumi); and his 14 grandchildren, Emily, William, Sarah, Caroline, and Coburn Burroughs, Margaret Rawlings, Coco, Peter and Whitney Johnson, Owen, Clay, and Sayres Alspaugh, and Burton and Tobi Rawlings; and great-granddaughter, Isabelle Grace. A memorial service was held Friday, Aug. 27, at Trinity Episcopal Church in downtown Asheville.

Bill and Christa Harris traveled to Colorado to attend the wedding of their granddaughter in August. They also went to the gulf shores of Alabama for the wedding of another granddaughter in July.

Davis Merrey received a nice note from a ’63 rat with a funny opening line. He says he remembered him. Davis guesses he was in his face a lot.

The following is the note: “Now that the VMI class agents are focusing on obituaries, I thought I better hurry and send you an email of thanks. I was a wimpy rat in your squad in C Company back in the day. You scared the hell out of me every day for seven months.

You must have finally shaped me up, for I have had successful careers, had a wonderful family, finally retired at 74, and last week, slipped into my 80s. Anyway, you worked your butt off straightening me out to your exacting standards, and I am grateful for your effort. Not finding a suitable major at the Mil, I transferred to Western Michigan and became a teacher, contractor, and

small-business owner. Stay healthy and thanks.”

The sender was Richard Ballentine ’63.

Tony Curtis has undergone some medical issues recently. It all started in March, when he went to The Villages hospital emergency room for stomach pain. While there, he experienced a grand mal seizure. He was transferred to Shands Hospital in Gainesville, Florida, and had three surgeries. He spent a month at Shands, where his recovery began. He was transferred to The Villages hospital for another month and was then sent to “The Club,” an assisted living facility, for another month. He is now at Buffalo Crossings Assisted Living Facility in The Villages. During his hospital stays, it was discovered that his kidneys were less than 5% effective, so he is now doing dialysis three days week. His address is Tony Curtis, Buffalo Crossings Assisted Living, Room 125, 3890 Woodridge Drive, The Villages, FL 32162. I’m sure he would appreciate hearing from his brother rats. You may recall that he served as class agent for 10 years before he was relieved by me at our 55th Reunion.

Edmund Strickler writes that when he left Virginia 48 years ago, he had car license tags that read “VMI 1962.” Doug Marechal got them when he gave them up. On moving back to Virginia in May, he hinted to Doug that he would like them back.

Doug did not want to cooperate. He doesn’t understand why. He threatened to get some bolt cutters and reclaim them. He thinks Doug posted a guard after that. Not to be outdone, Edmund got his new 2021 Virginia tags.

David Ellis Pierce passed away Aug. 25, 2021.

David grew up in Kinston, North Carolina, and was an avid outdoorsman. He graduated in 1963 with a degree in civil engineering. He served in the U.S. Army from 1963-68 and was stationed in West Germany and Thailand. Upon completing his military obligation, he joined the Virginia Highway Department, where he served as the district bridge engineer for the Suffolk, Virginia, residency. David was an avid artillery historian, working closely with experts in the field after his retirement in 1993. David’s proudest achievement in this area was his work revitalizing Trophy Park at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Portsmouth, Virginia, in the late ’90s. David was predeceased by his wife, Lorene Pierce, and his first wife, Janet Pierce. He is survived by his son, Howard Pierce, and his wife, Linda, as well as two grandchildren, Virginia and James.

In September, Louis and Sue Ritchie started to wrap up another summer at their house in

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Maryland with family and friends and head back to their permanent residence in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. They spent a fair amount of time this summer decluttering their Maryland house getting ready for their move to their house in Florida.

Those of you who know the decluttering process know that after 20-some years in the house, it’s something that must be done. They are still in good health and enjoy their two or three times a week golf games and regular long walks in their community. They finally decided a while back to go ahead and book a couple of trips abroad, with the first being a cruise from Miami to the Caribbean over Thanksgiving. The second trip will be in August 2022 to the holy lands and the pyramids of Egypt. That is a bucket list trip, and they are obviously very much looking forward to it.

All is well with Rosser and Kate Bobbitt. The only real changes are that their oldest, Myra Hope, has moved from Harvard College to MathWorks.

Their youngest grandchild, Helena, has started Polish Saturday school in preparation for her provisional appointment to VMI Class of 2040. Kate remains at Galilee Episcopal in Virginia Beach, and he continues as a support volunteer with the Virginia Beach Rescue Squad. They hope to see son Max and family in Belgium around Christmas, but international travel remains iffy. They see Alex and Kathy Raney every so often, but the pandemic is playing havoc with their social life.

In July, yours truly had a reverse shoulder replacement on my right shoulder due to a massive rotator cuff tear. I am doing fine with it, unlike Bowles Pender, who had the same operation in 2018 on his left shoulder. He has his right shoulder done with a different surgeon in 2019, but it was a complete disaster for a year. He had it redone by the original surgeon but still isn’t right. He went

to UVA in October to see if they can help with his back. He says this golden year’s horse hockey is for the birds. He and Patsy are sticking close to home and wearing their masks.

Buck and Louise Bradley have been traveling a little to North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Richmond to antique military shows and to see grandchildren. In late October, they drove to Augusta, Georgia, to visit the Southern part of their family and play a round of golf at the National. He says it’s hard to believe the 60th is just around the corner, and they are looking forward to seeing all BRs. Tori Meskell, Jim Woods’ daughter, reports Jim is no longer receiving his own mail or email.

Last year about this time, Jim moved into assisted living, but then at Christmas, he contracted COVID-19 and was sent to the hospital for a week.

That time in the hospital sent him into a tailspin, and when they released him, they quarantined him in the memory care unit. After his quarantine, they moved him back to the assisted living unit where he had been living, and he was extremely confused and wanted nothing more than to go back to the memory care unit. So, Jim is as of January, permanently in memory care. She tries to bring up things he remembers. Vietnam is a very big memory in his mind. He also remembers some of VMI, though not many names. Jim now spends his days watching Harry Potter movies and getting up for his three meals a day. That’s about as much as he can handle.

Calvin Seybold reports their whole family took a river cruise along the Columbia River, which divides the states of Oregon and Washington, from Oct. 24-28, 2021, for his birthday. The trip was very interesting, especially to him, as the trip historian discussed the history and development of

Class of 1962: Carolyn Worrell with members of the VMI lacrosse team. The scoreboard on the field is dedicated to Mrs. Worrell’s late husband, DeWitt “De” Worrell.

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this part of the United States and how it related to the famous Lewis and Clark Expedition throughout the trip. The fall season in that part of the U.S. is rainy, and the weather cooperated fully. They are all well and looking forward to the coming holidays. Different family members will be visiting them during different parts of the coming holiday season, and they are looking forward to the visits. They are looking forward to 2022 and the VMI Class of 1962’s 60th Reunion.

Tom Williams sent a note that Dr. Thomas Norwood Layne III passed away Nov. 4, 2021. He was at VMI for three years. After leaving VMI, he attended Lynchburg College and then received his Doctor of Mathematics degree at Vanderbilt University. He was a professor of mathematics at Shenandoah University for 40 years. He received his HAM radio certification in 2021 and enjoyed antique and model cars, cooking, and baking. His love and passion were tutoring his granddaughters in mathematics. He was preceded in death by his sister, Nancy Layne Morton, and parents, Thomas Norwood II and Zell Carey Hopkins Layne. Dr. Layne is survived by his children, Dr. Virginia Katherine D’Antonio (Mark) and Sarah Elizabeth Layne (Sammy Medrano); granddaughters, Olivia Hana Lee and Yessy Medrano; and many nieces and nephews.

Danny and Nancy Kiser were so happy when COVID-19 numbers went down at the beginning of the summer, and they were able to start getting out again. They were back to church, although no wine at communion, but still enjoy seeing everyone again and resuming small gatherings with family and friends. They felt comfortable with all of that since they had both Moderna shots.

In September, they attended a VMI luncheon in Williamsburg and then spent the night in Newport News with good friends who had both shots and boosters. They didn’t think much about a neighbor coming in while they were there, but four days later, on Danny’s birthday, he was sick. They were tested for COVID-19, and both were negative. On Sunday, both of them were feeling badly, so Monday afternoon, they were tested at their doctor’s office, and they were positive. The very next day, they received monoclonal antibody infusions at the hospital and waited out their days of quarantine at home. Danny snapped back quickly, while Nancy was having annoying little problems, but all and all, they are doing fine.

Candy Wagner was in Atlanta, Georgia, in November 2021 for her granddaughter’s wedding.

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Class Notes While there, she met with Cammy Wagner for lunch, and they caught up with each other. They didn’t plan their outfits. They were just two Wagner girls with great taste. They talked about their deceased husbands, Jerry Wagner and Ron Wagner. Both are planning on attending the 60th.

Apart from a few nagging health issues, Davis and Barbara Merrey are doing quite well. They are blessed with a wonderful son and daughter, both of whom work with them in the family IT business, and five healthy, bright grandchildren.

Daughter Natalie Jean’s twin boys, Ian Davis and Nathan Lewis, are 18 and will be entering college next year, one to pursue a divinity degree and the other to study graphic design. Their sister, Sophia Rose, just turned “sweet 16,” and is the apple of Poppy’s eye! Son John Davis has two fine boys, Parker Davis and Lucas Alexander. Notice the name Davis keeps showing up? Imagine that!

Their business is growing, and he’s having a ball trying to keep up with all these young folks while protecting his customers’ businesses from cyberattackers. He continues to enjoy his “hobby,” songwriting—up to about 80 or so by now—planning on having many of them recorded as soon as COVID-19 calms down enough to get into a studio.

The position of class agent is still open if anyone is interested; please let Jerry or me know.

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Michael J. Curley

So, let’s begin with some upbeat news. By the time you read this in the Alumni Review sometime in February 2022, we’ll be just about 14 months from our 60th Reunion! Can you believe it? That’s a really long time since we matriculated Sept. 8, 1959, isn’t it! Your Reunion Committee recently held its first planning meeting on Zoom last week, and in April 2022, we’ll start meeting monthly, again on Zoom, so we don’t put too much stress on our aging bods traveling. Once again, we’ll be gathering at the Natural Bridge Hotel, now a fully renovated Trademark Collection Hotel by Wyndham, simply because it offers the most bang for the buck and room to mingle, swap lies, and tell the wonderful stories that get better by the years. Old Graybeard (W.O. Jones)

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and I inspected the venue thoroughly, and it’s pretty doggoned good this time around! Blimey, and what a bar! We don’t know the exact date or the agenda yet, but as soon as plans firm up, we’ll be in touch. As you know, lots of things have changed at the “I” since we visited there last, and it’s not all bad. You’ll be surprised.

Remembering the Proverb regarding “the last shall be first,” etc., we’ll begin the news with Mike Smither, who’s always the last to get his notes to me; however, on the bright side, he’s also the most consistent submitter. Mike starts, “We lost Ian Tissot recently; I happened to sit with him at one of our reunion dinners. During the conversation, we realized that we had been classmates at a high school in New York City where my family lived for two years. We both had fond memories but thought it ‘telling’ that the headmaster absconded with its funds and forced the school to close. I’m not making this up!” Mike continues, “Betty and I visited friends in Maine in September and took in the Maine Maritime Museum at the Bath Ironworks. The tour was most interesting, especially as viewed from a boat that took us up and down the Kennebec River. We could see, although not closely, two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and the Lyndon B. Johnson, a Zumwaltclass destroyer. In October, we visited our son and his family in Idaho, a worthwhile trip after two years of Facetiming it! We took part in school activities (kindergarten and second grade), many hikes, walks, and scenic tours during exceptional weather. All good! We see our daughter and her family on a more frequent basis, thankfully. Happy Founders Day!” And to you, Mike!

Billy Bell sent a photo of him, his grandson, and some other “kid” in the picture. Billy wrote, “That’s my grandson, and I paid for the goat. He was in a big show in York, Pennsylvania, Saturday and placed third in showmanship. Goes to North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville in a couple of weeks.”

Now, let’s let the class speak. First, we hear from Kirke White, who writes: “Thanks, Mike and Artie, notes received and read. Presumably, you are now safely back home. The photos reveal a happy, healthy, and well-nourished group of brother rats. (Watch it, Kirke!) The summer here in the Northwest has been unusually hot, dry, and now, smokey. In July, I had three great days of halibut and salmon fishing in Alaska with friends from Northern California. Last week, along with my oldest son and his daughter, we did

Class of 1963: The Crow, aka Dennis Crowley, shows up from time to time at various national monuments.

This time it’s the “Gettysburg Gun” displayed in the state capitol in Providence, Rhode Island. a 16-mile hike on the Mount Rainier wonderland trail with great views of the glaciers, lakes, and the remaining wildflowers that had survived the heat. From Panhandle Gap at 7,200 feet, we could see Mount Adams and Mount Hood to the south.

Our youngest grandson is getting married Aug. 28 in Spokane, Washington, and a granddaughter, also living in Spokane, is expecting our first grandson in October. Because of a large influx of tourists into central Oregon and a corresponding high COVID-19 rate, we have been keeping a low profile since June. Hopefully, the vaccination rates improve ... and we can return to some sense of normal.”

From Bob Powell: “Thanks for the COVID-19 bit in the notes. Tina and I returned last night from our venture to the boondock mountains of North Carolina. We were not too far from David Thomas’ place in Cashiers, so being the beggar that I am, I had lunch with him and Bucky. Sure. Guess you could add I almost drove off a ledge coming down from David’s. Had to be the GPS, not cocktails, this time.” Sure, Bob! Hearing from Tom Snyder is always a treat: “Notes received, read, and enjoyed/informed.

Since I haven’t died, guess there’s no new news, though Lynda and I did just return from a short

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes trek in Jasper National Park with two grandsons, 11 and 13. Their first and likely my last backpacking adventure!

Good you two can keep your sense of humor (wit?), which makes for good reading despite some sad news. After many years of regret for not learning to play an instrument as a kid, I’m starting piano lessons while all my fingers still move. Reminds me of fine memories of listening to Si Bunting playing piano in the English building while I was studying. Stay safe in Florida, Mike, and keep up the fine communication.” Never made that trip, Tom. Timing involving the new COVID-19 variant and thoughts of being enclosed with hundreds of unknown best friends traveling in a train car for 12 hours sort of scared me off.

“Hearing nice things about our new superintendent. A great job for the right man. Been there, done that, etc.”

Notes from Si Bunting—brief, concise, terse but, at least, proof that he’s still on the planet in Rhode Island!

Always happy to receive a selfie of a historic site from Dennis Crowley.

This time it’s the Gettysburg Gun displayed in the State Capitol in Providence, Rhode Island. Bunny Reynolds reports that the “class scholarship fund has grown nicely in recent months with a June 30, 2021, market value of $544,503. That will yield $15,280 for scholarship aid in the current academic year. Thanks to all who help!”

That’s great news, Bunny. Last year’s two scholarship cadets, Peter Maxwell ’21 and Jacob Saunders ’21, both graduated and have been replaced by a civil engineer, Class of ’22, and an economics and business major, Class of ’23. Our contributions to the fund during the last fiscal year were about $35,000, and a friendly stock market boosted our market value to a bit over $500,000. The two new recipients bring the number of individuals supported by the Class of ’63 to 12. Since some have received funds for multiple years, the total number of scholarships awarded is now 21. On a sad note, it

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Class of 1963: Mike Curley, class agent, said of this photo, “Perfect formation!” After a hearty lunch at the Hampton Yacht Club in October are (front row) Taz Hubard, Bob Walton, Tony Holtry, Beau Walker, John Mills, (back row) Fred Lanier, Billy Bell, Jim Key, and Bob Powell.

Class of 1963: Attending the September Richmond, Virginia, lunch are Catherine and Jim Hoge; Bob Earle; Rudy Amos; Mike Curley; Artie Phaup; Buddy Cato; Richard Warren; Bill Jones; and J.B. Hoge, Jim’s son.

Class of 1963: Swamp rats John Mills, Dusty Custer, Jim Key, Beau Walker, and Bob Spence have celebrated Dusty, Jim, and Bob’s birthday for the last eight to 10 years at the beach.

was reported in the Institute Report that Peter Maxwell passed away July 17. Please remember that our fund is a good place to stash your money.

Regarding one of the photos from John Mills: “Mike, I’m not sure if this photo is good and usable, but it was taken earlier in August 2021 when we celebrated Dusty Custer’s, Jim Key’s, and Bobby Spence’s birthdays. This has been an ongoing tradition at our beach house for probably the last eight to 10 years, except last year when the virus prevented us from getting together. Their birthdays are within two weeks of each other, so it is for the common good! As part of the celebration, Beau Walker, our sister rats, and I are always invited, which make for special times and memories. I did have a unique cake made for the occasion and will send a picture of that to you under a separate cover. Hope things are good for you and Peg! Johnny Mills.” Thanks, John.

Here’s the latest from the badlands of Oklahoma. Pete Brunel reports, “Doing what I do best.” Enjoy the picture on our website: vmi63.net.

“Wonderful, and thank you for taking the time and effort to talk yesterday.

As mentioned, Diana had eighth and last chemo Friday—rang the hospital chemo bell! She will start 20 rounds of low-dose radiation sometime in November after chemo dissipates. All is going well. Looks like in January, you and Diana will be over your cancer humps. To Pat and Gwen (Kelly), looking forward to you and Gwen coming to T-town, as in the past. May not be allowed but will have big jug of Tanqueray waiting for you anyway.

Best, Pete and Diana.”

Checking in with Lee Spessard to see if he was able to join us in Richmond, Virginia, for a bit of lunch. He replied, “Mike, I am not allowed to drive yet, so I won’t be joining you.

Hopefully, I will make the next luncheon. I had right hip replacement surgery Aug. 24, and I’m recovering

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Class Notes nicely. Please give my best wishes to all my BRs VMI spirit. How about an Old Yell for Jim and Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, and a Combat InfanTik Ellis for opening their home to the Kelly fam- try Badge. While still in the Army, Dave graduatwho attend today’s luncheon. Lee.” ed from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School with Finally, I get a picture and note from someone ily in their time of need? a Master of Science degree in operations research/ Prayers for Gerry Patneskey, Ed’s loving wife? at one of our home games! Gary Eifried writes, Bill Wray is also recovering slowly, as he systems analysis. He was later selected for com“Sharon and I moved to Lake Norman, North writes: “I am nine months post the horrible stroke mand of a nuclear artillery battalion in Germany Carolina, late last year from Southwest Virginia, and then as the professor of military science at and when I signed up for the Charlotte Chapter, I I suffered Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2021. I spent 30 days saw that Leland Caldwell was an active member. with no visitors at Johnston-Willis Hospital. Kha- James Madison University. It was at JMU that he So, I contacted him, and we have been going to ki drove me to the emergency room in 30 minutes; discovered his love of teaching. After five years events since then. The day before the game, there the hospital bill was $130,000! For rehab, I am of working at BDM Intl., Dave returned to educawas a dinner in Charlotte with the new supe. ... fortunate to go to the Circle Center on Marshall tion and spent the next 15 years teaching math at But the game was exciting, in spite of the loss. Street three days a week. I have difficulty walk- South Lakes and McLean High Schools. He was ing. I have been keeping up with Pat Kelly’s is- an active volunteer in his children’s various sports The Citadel defense was just too strong, able to put too much pressure on the quarterback. But sues, which seem to be improving. I hope all is and Scouting activities, with his Shouse Village a good weekend, nonetheless. Started with an well with you and your family.” Good to hear community, and with his church. A quiet, spiritual Alumni Association tailgate. Maybe we’ll see from you, Billy! Please pray for Diana Brunel, man of firm integrity, he will be remembered as more ’63 there next year. Our claim to fame: We who is battling cancer, and Bob Earle, who con- fiercely loyal to his family, his country, and the people with whom he was honored to serve. Buritinues to have heart issues. were the oldest class there!”

Taps: David Lee McKee passed away Aug. 23, al at Arlington Cemetery will be held at a later So, who’s on the gim? Pat Kelly, for sure. Remember that Pat was on the kidney replacement 2021, at the age of 79 after an 18-month battle date. W.O. Jones’ observations are much like a number of our brother rats: “Four list back in August when he was noBronze Stars!” tified that a kidney was available?

Bob Spence passed away Oct. 17, Not so fast; the organ was in worse 2021, in Venice, Florida. He was born shape than Pat’s, so much excitement July 27, 1941, in Portsmouth, Virginia. and preparation but no kidney! Then Bob, aka “Mr. Wonderful,” was a beagain in October, another kidney beloved family man who will be dearly came available. Thank God, this time missed by all and fondly remembered the transplant was successful. Pat for getting everyone around the table writes post-operation, “Hey, Mike, I for a game of Hearts, Spades, and Gin am just getting over the surgery fog, Rummy. Bob graduated in 1959 from slept most of today, but up and feeling Cradock High School in Portsmouth, good now. I received my new kidney Virginia, and in 1963 from VMI, at about 2150 hours Wednesday, Oct. 6. Three-hour operation, then recovery Class of 1963: Grandpa Leland Caldwell with grandson Weston and where he received a commission in BR Gary and Sharon Eifried rooting on the Keydets at The Citadel the U.S. Air Force and a Bachelor of and follow-up. Got to bed at 0400 that game.

Science degree in engineering. After day. Gwen stayed with me that night.

Next day schedule had lots of tests and blood with pancreatic cancer. He was born in Battle graduation, he flew as a U.S. Air Force captain work as they try to figure out if kidney is wak- Creek, Missouri, the second son of Col. Richard on multiple transpacific missions, making shuttle ing up and working. No sleep second night, as and Dorothy McKee. Dave is survived by his wife trips from the U.S. West Coast to Vietnam and surgery drugs wear off and pain incoming. Gwen Judith (Everett); two sons, Douglas and Matthew; Southeast Asia. Bob served his country honorably stayed with Jim and Tik Ellis that night. Day three a daughter, Catherine Sribar; eight grandchildren; and, after his Air Force stint, was hired by IBM. and progressing. No strange feeling, just normal and two great-grandchildren. Dave met Judy, the He worked in sales and sales management in Norsurgical pains. Plan was to be discharged Sunday love of his life, in Carlisle, Pennsylvania, where folk, Virginia; San Jose, California; Boca Raton, afternoon. We’ll spend the night at the Ellis’ and they both graduated from high school in 1959. Florida; Atlanta, Georgia; and Sarasota, Florida, head home Monday morning. Will be in quaran- He then graduated from VMI in 1963 where he before retiring from “Big Blue” after 27 years. tine for three months since my immune system is was a member of the color guard during his 1st After retirement from IBM, he settled in Venice shot. Anti-rejection drugs working to save kidney Class year. His accomplishments included honors Beach on Florida’s Gulf Coast to enjoy golfing suppress the usual white blood cells that protect in physics, a commission as a second lieutenant and the stunning beaches. In his later years, Bob the body. Can’t have much contact with anyone in the U.S. Army, and Judy as his bride. Dave got the nickname “Bubble Gum Bob” as he libwould enthusiastically tell you that he spent the erally distributed Double Bubble Gum to friends until January. But surely glad to have a kidney and a chance at a better life. Thanks to all those who bulk of his life in public service to a nation he and strangers alike.

Bill Cowardin: “Spent some time with Bob prayed for me.” So that’s what it like to receive a loved. Dave’s 24 years of Army service included transplant and that’s also what it’s like to live the two tours in Vietnam, where he was awarded four when my wife, Connie, was still alive. We played

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes golf together at our VMI 50th and invited us to visit and stay over with him in Venice. He was extraordinarily kind to Connie and introduced us to the waterfront restaurant at Phillipi Creek. We visited it several times after that, and Connie insisted we invite him to join us. Bob was unique, and we will miss him.” John Mills commented: “Most likely, his ashes will be spread along the Atlantic.”

Berkley G. “Bunky” Adkins passed peacefully Sunday, Oct. 17, 2021. He was born and lived in Danville until he required assisted living in 2020.

He attended VMI for almost one-and-a-half years and then graduated from Averett College in engineering. He worked for Danville Electric and Power as an electrical engineer all his career. He spent many years teaching swimming and lifesaving at the YMCA and also volunteered with Danville Volunteer Rescue Squad. He raised two special needs sons, Bambi (Berkley Adkins III) who passed in 2005, and Joshua Adkins, who is living in Mathews County, Virginia. Bunky served two years in the U.S. Army in the 1960s. Bunky lived a life dedicated to helping others, as his history shows. May these three brother rats rest in peace.

Stay well, stay safe, and we’ll see you in April 2023! curleyrat

1964

John R. Cavedo

The last three months have been rough on the Class of ’64. We lost three brother rats: Dave McKee, Pat Whitaker, and Marty Stango.

Dave McKee joined us as an academic 3rd Class cadet and graduated with the Class of ’63.

He died after an 18-month battle with pancreatic cancer. Dave is survived by his wife, Judith; two sons, Douglas and Matthew; and a daughter, Catherine Sribar. He graduated with honors in physics and was commissioned in the Army.

Dave served two years in Vietnam, earning four Bronze Stars, the Air Medal, and a CIB. He retired a lieutenant colonel after 24 years of active service and proceeded to work for five years with BDM International, followed by 15 years teaching math at South Lakes and McLean High Schools.

On Oct. 20, Pat Whitaker died. He was a veteran of the Army and passed away at the Oak

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Class of 1964: Ed Clark and Judy Miller at Toms Brook, Virginia, in November 2021.

Class of 1964: Ed Hoy and Frank Parker in North Carolina in October 2021.

Class of 1964: Lauranne and W.J. Kitchen in Riquewihr, France, in November 2021.

Creek Sporting Club doing exactly what he loved: Hunting with his son, Nash, in the company of Sally, his wife of 43 years. He served in Vietnam, later assigned to the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit, shotgun section. His final assignment was professor of military science, Creighton University. He spent the last 25 years coaching at Creighton Prep High School in Omaha, Nebraska.

Marty Stango died in late October in Jacksonville, Florida. He had cancer and had been having radiation treatments. He is survived by his wife, Hilda. As of these notes, I haven’t been able to find any details or get in touch with Hilda.

Several members of the Class of ’64 family have been quite ill and some hospitalized for extended periods: Harvey Sargent; John Thornton; Richard Beatty’s wife, Mickey; Bill Crone; and Sandra Reid. I’m certain each would like to hear from you. If you didn’t keep a copy of the most recent class roster, let me know, and I’ll resend it.

I’ve been in touch with Caroline Tucker and Andy. They have had some unsettling news in the past several months. The ranch Andy lived on his entire life is being sold. Andy was outvoted by his two brothers. They are resettling to a much smaller ranch several miles inland from their place, which bordered I-95 in Florida.

After my recent email about the death of one of us, Frank Parker shared, “I have a sense of how you feel, having been ’39 agent. However, I can’t express how important it is to let us know the bad news. It is important to the families of the lost to know someone cares enough to recognize the deceased, their life’s accomplishments, and that someone still really remembers them.”

On a much more positive note, after moving to Tennessee, Tom Sebrell wrote, “Every month VMI ’64s get together for lunch in the Nashville area. They include John Manley, Parker Duncan, Matt Joblanka, and me.” Tom promised to send a photo the next time they get together.

Tracey Hunter sent a nice long note: “Enjoyed reading your report in class notes in the Alumni Review Issue 3. It inspired me to give you an update on what’s going on in my world. I retired from the state of Virginia, Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services, as an environmental chemist in their wastewater/drinking water section. At the same time, my wife, Marilyn, retired from Perot Systems as a senior systems analyst/manager here in Richmond in 2007. We have three children, all married, and eight grandchildren. Marilyn and I purchased a beach condo in 2013 in Corolla,

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Class Notes North Carolina, and spend a lot of good weather months traveling between Richmond and Corolla.

Incidentally, we ran into Bill Crone and his wife at the movies several years ago in Nags Head.

They have a permanent residence near Corolla.

“During my tenure in Richmond, I became involved in officiating football and basketball on the high school and small college level. It was like a second income that we used to take trips with the children during the summer. All said and done, I spent 25 years officiating football and basketball in the Virginia High School League and Division III small college level in the state of Virginia.”

Tom and Penny Sebrell, along with Bob and Cathy Warren, recently returned from a Paddle Wheeler trip on The American Queen Steamboat (cruising up the Mississippi River). Apparently, it was quite luxurious, befitting such noble company.

Dick Atkinson has moved. “Just writing to let you know that we sold our house yesterday after less than 48 hours on the market. We listed it for sale by owner, Zillow, and Facebook Marketplace late Sunday evening, spent a lot of time on the phone Monday, had one couple view it, came back Tuesday morning and put in a contract at 2 p.m. Tuesday, and we signed at 6 p.m. for slightly over asking price. Seems like if you want to sell your house, now is the time. Heeding the good advice of Colonel Garber that having two houses was a pain in the neck, we decided that having a house in Virginia for only four months per year is a little nuts (seven months in Florida, one or more on vacation or visiting kids in California). Barbi and Duke had been after us for a while to go in on a house with them, and we had seen several and missed out on the bids. A house came on the market in late September. Barbi happened to see it, we visited Thursday and Friday and had our 11 a.m. deadline met, so we have a house in Powhatan on a small lake (Lake Randolph). We put down the down payment, and they will assume the mortgage and all the expenses. It will be nice to have only one mortgage again and not to have to worry about lawn care, sprinklers, AC, etc. A very nice place; you all will have to come visit. Now our problem is that we have to move out of here quickly, so I am getting a moving company, well and septic inspectors, and a termite inspection quickly. Getting rid of decades of accumulated clothing, books, treasures, etc. has been very painful, and I may need to see a therapist (unless, of course, Cavedo or Garber tries to kick me in the pants; McVey

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is too gentlemanly to do that). We hope to get to Florida by Thanksgiving or the first of December.

Our new address as of Oct. 29 is: 1550 Lake Randolph Road, Powhatan, VA 23139.”

Richard Beatty, a regular correspondent, sent some news: “My wife, Mickey, recently had a minor stroke here in Montana. We had planned to return to Washington about mid-August but our car was hit in a parking lot by a young girl driving at 20-25 MPH and not braking. Mickey is currently here in Kalispell at the Logan Hospital rehab center. It is a fully accredited rehab facility. She has already been improving over the last several days.

We are already getting snow on our mountain tops and hope to return to Tacoma before the passes are snowed in.”

The latest from Richard is that they’re still in Kalispell and hope to be home by the new year.

That’s a long time for rehab and not being able to get home.

Sherrel and I met with Pete Mitchko and his partner, Charlotte Gwynn, in late August for lunch. It turns out they lived only 30 miles from us. We discussed meeting again. In the meantime, I heard from Ernie and Chris Brown, who also live in our neck of the woods. So, the six of us met for lunch. It was a really nice time since we hadn’t heard from Ernie in years.

In the meantime, Pete has decided to move west.

While one of Pete’s sons lives here in Florida, another lives in Albuquerque, New Mexico. Apparently, after a short visit to Albuquerque, they discovered they really like it and decided to move.

Details on that move will follow.

While I haven’t heard directly from Ed Clark, my wife, Sherrel, saw a photo of Ed and his wife, Judy Miller, on Facebook.

Ken Dice sent a short update. “While we are still in New Port Richey, Florida, I think we are settled in here for a while. We’ve made some good friends and are staying active. Longer-term, we will probably eventually wind up in San Antonio, but who knows?”

Again, while I didn’t hear directly from Tom Hill, here is something he sent Bill Crone: “Hey, Bill, just want to let you know that I’m thinking of you and pulling for you, too. You were always a fighter, and I also remember your sense of humor and optimistic attitude.

“Several years ago, I moved to Boulder, Colorado, to be closer to my grandkids. I am in a high-rise at the edge of campus and am about 10 minutes from my son and family. Of course, I am

‘dealing’ with college kids 24/7.

“I have fond memories of our 50th and seeing you, Dyan, and the team. I especially enjoyed the luncheon that Dan and you put together with Clentis Gupton and our teammates and wives.”

Again, with Bill Crone’s permission, here is his reply to Tom: “Hey, BR, your email brightened my day. I’ve had conversations with our other cocaptain, Dan DeForrest, and he just wants us to get together in a scrum one more time. God, those were the good old days. I’ve copied Dan just to let him know we’ve been in contact.

“You know, Tom, when I came out for the wrestling team, I had no idea I’d even make the team. The reason was that I really had very little wrestling experience. When we were high school juniors, several of us convinced our principal to start a wrestling team. We begged one of the gym teachers (no wrestling experience) to be our coach. We won one match that year and finished above .500 our senior year. So you can imagine why I didn’t have a lot of confidence that I would even make our team at VMI. But Gup didn’t want scholarship athletes, just desire, and my confidence grew, as did my technique. As time went on, I surprised Gup by winning our trials—actually, that’s when he learned my name—and starting our sophomore year, all I wanted to do was win every match because I knew you would win yours. And I knew Gup expected both of us to do our best, and I never wanted to let him, or you and our team, down.

“It warms my heart to know you’ve settled in to be closer to your family. Keep hanging with the grandkids, and you’ll stay young at heart. That’s also Dan and Sandy’s mantra, as they are living in a beautiful high-rise condo in St. Petersburg, Florida, and helping raise some of their grandchildren.

“Dyan and I now live in the OBX way up in Corolla. The sunset views are spectacular this time of year over the Currituck Sound. We moved here so we could be close to almost all of the grands (we have 12), but two live within a half-hour, so that’s special. We attend a lot of their high school events, which keeps us hopping.”

W.J. and Lauranne Kitchen were able to resume overseas travel in early November. Recently, they went on a riverboat cruise on the Rhine and Mosel Rivers from Basel, Switzerland, through six countries ending in Belgium. On Veterans Day, they visited their 148th country, the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. There, in the American Cemetery of Luxembourg where soldiers of World War II lie,

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes W.J. and five other military veterans on the cruise laid a wreath to the men (and one woman) who lost their lives in or near the Battle of the Bulge.

Jeff Crump recently spent a week in Florida playing softball in a nationwide tournament. Unfortunately, our schedules didn’t work out, so we never got together. As I have mentioned in earlier notes, Jeff still practices law actively, as does Mike Murphy. It occurred to me as we all enter our ninth decade that there aren’t many still working.

It would be interesting to see how many of us still are. Please let me know. Is it just lawyers?

Tom and Yvonne Myers stopped by our house in Cape Coral in October. We had a short meal and swapped the usual lies.

Class of 1964: John Cavedo and Tom Myers ’63, Cape Coral, Florida, in October 2021.

Class of 1964: Bob and Cathy Warren with Penny and Tom Sebrell aboard the American Queen in October 2021.

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Even though I haven’t received much detailed information about our brother rats’ activities for these notes, I have had several phone calls with Brother Rats Hank Cronin, Bill Garber, Dick Atkinson, W.J. Kitchen, Mike Murphy, Bill Welsh, Cliff Crittsinger, and Tom Sebrell.

In closing, may I suggest that these notes would be more uplifting if more of you would take just a few minutes to write and tell me what’s going on in your lives?

1965

Mickey Finn

Bill Ryan is first with a note: “Mickey, just to keep you updated on our activities. We leave here Nov. 13 for a cruise out of Miami, and after the cruise, we will be staying in Vero Beach until the end of March or maybe April 2022. See you when we get back!”

Ron Petitte reports that Cambridge Scholars Publishing in England recently released the Second Edition of “Civilization at Risk: Seeds of Strife.” It is the first book in a two-part series to bring awareness to the scourge that is human trafficking. It is included in the Book Announcements section of this Review. He was sorry he couldn’t be with us at the reunion. Sue and he were driving out West to visit two of their daughters.

Karl F. Zeller said he was “faced with sitting around swapping fading-memory, questionable tales about how it really was versus checking off a preteen bucket list item (yep, I’m down to those) swinging from an Amazon jungle vine playing Tarzan. I confess I chose the poor attempt at impersonating Tarzan over our reunion. I’m a cheapskate at heart, and since the trip had been on COVID-19 delay since last year and was already paid for with no chance of a refund, I went for it. If you look closely, you can see and almost hear my Tarzan yell in the vibrating underbrush.”

Charlie Russell writes: “Mickey, it was a great time, one to allow us to listen and laugh and reflect. The objective was to ‘simply discuss our lives together,’ and it worked. The kinship we share, the optimism we possess, and the laughter we enjoy will forever define us. (The food was good, too.) Many thanks to all the brother rats and to the wives and sweethearts and significant

others for making this a memorable reunion. Best regards, Class of 1965. Charlie.”

Rick Harvey sends in: “Get back with God. Always trust the Army. Detoxify the body now; you have at least another 20 to go. Get into stocks again, the worst is over now. After Jan. 6-9, we are back in business. Say ‘no to crap.’ No lying, stealing, or cheating or tolerance of those who do. ‘You may be whatever you resolve to be.’ I read it every day for four years. That changed me inwardly. God blesses this Institute and its graduates forever. I give thanks to God that this is so.

Amen.”

Norm Radford reports, “Mickey, I do not have anything for your notes, but I do want to give you a big thank you for all the work you have done as class agent over the years.” Norm, you are welcome, all the way back to the Scouts and sixth grade in Quantico.

Bob Whaley responded upon receiving my Nov. 12, 2021, afternoon request that “nothing to report from the southernmost BR. Just renewing the invitation to all to drop in for a visit, or at least a margarita, if you’re down escaping the cold.”

Bob, do the deer still come by for dinner?

Michael Roy Degman writes from his home in Alaska, “There is little in the way of news here in Alaska. Earlier this morning, we had our 14th snowstorm of the winter season. The snowfall varies from about a half inch to 8-plus inches.

This was only a half-incher—so far. But more may come later on today. The low temperature overnight has already gotten down to negative 10o F. Now it is 7o F. We are still on the warm side of winter. The weatherman is promising us temperatures down to negative 28o F sometime within the next one to two weeks. That would be more normal. Our car engines are already plugged into electrical outlets that stand outside along with our cars. That keeps the head bolt warm. Then you merely start the engine from a handheld device inside your home while you finish getting dressed from inside clothes to outside clothes.

“Much like down yonder, one learns to do things in steps as they go through the day. Nothing exciting happening—no shoot-outs for the past five days. The West Fairbanks Safeway grocery store had some excitement last weekend. Details are sketchy. They were closed for one day then business was back to normal. Would you believe that Alaska is in many ways still a frontier-minded state? Our nearest neighbors are the Russians, the Chinese, and the Canadians. You have to bypass

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Class of 1965: Granville Amos, David Arensdorf, Harry Bartosik, Richard Bernstein, Henry Brant, William Cather, Wayne Chiles, Robert Deaderick, Hugh Dowdy, Russell Evans, Thomas Finn, John Frazer, Jeff Gausepohl, William Gibson, Albert Goodloe, James Henry, Charles Hough, Campbell Hyatt, Stephen Irving, M. Jones, Kenneth Jordan, John Jordan, David Kiger, John Knight, Albert Lahendro, Robert Law, John Marshall, Irwin McCumber, Reed McDowell, Frederick McNeil, Easley Moore, Richard Moring, John Mountcastle, William Murphy, Charles Price, Norman Radford, William Robertson, Gary Ross, Charles Russell, William Ryan, Wilmore Scott, Paul Shu, Robert Southworth, William Swindell, William Thomas, Peter Trible, Larry Umberger, Frederick Viele, Richard Waters, John Wilkerson, Jeffrey Wilkins, and Michael Williams.

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes of the pandemic cost us dearly. My records show multiple contractors on a remodeling project.

Canada just to get to American territory again.

“Someone asked if we were having a mini re“The number of grizzly bear (browns) attacks we lost 10 BRs between April 1, 2020, and our on people has decreased from what it was this past gathering. Five-year intervals are too long. Thank union in Lexington for the Feb. 12 VMI versus summer. They are now denning up for the win- you for your dedication as the glue that binds us The Citadel home game. Does anyone know?” I’ll be on the lookout for you, Bob! ter. Life is back to Alaskan normal. Fairbanks is together. ’65, ’65, ’65.”

Johnny Mac Marshall said, “Well, back to almost pristine whiteness with we were able to get our reunion done in the snow blanketing everything. Only fine style. I think everyone had a good the most traveled streets have black/ time, though I also think that everyone brownness showing from the frequent was saddened by your announcement passage of motor vehicle tires. We are to step down as our class agent. You all back to winter tires. Mine are called have done an exemplary job all these Hakapellitta—the Japanese equivalent years, and those are big shoes to fill for of American Blizzack Tires. They whoever is brave enough to take over work better for me than the Blizzacks. (notice I did not say ‘replace you’).

(Those spellings could be wrong.)”

That said, of course, we expect you to Andy Williams wrote a thank you: continue to help plan and attend future “I just would mention that I apprecireunions/gatherings of the class, and ated all the BRs and their wives who we all look forward to that. came by to thank me for the short talk “Our trip to Lexington was truly a that I gave representing the George C. family event. Jamie was so happy to Marshall Foundation of which I am a work the ‘welcome desk,’ as it gave trustee. It was a great encouragement her a chance to meet some of the BRs to me. Many of our BRs are renewing she had not met before. Likewise, our their memberships or supporting the daughter, Victoria, was absolutely capfoundation for the first time. As VMI Class of 1965: Bill Cather and his Scouting family representing three grads, we are indeed beneficiaries of troops, a venture crew, and two Cub Scout packs. Those partici- tivated by the gathering of such enthuthe incredible legacy of General Mar- pating include two sons and a son-in-law, two daughters-in-law, a siastic (and funny) people we all know as brother rats. It was easily one of the shall ’901. Now more than ever, we granddaughter, and four grandsons. most enjoyable reunions we have ever need to encourage the characteristics attended. Of course, considering that of service and humility that were so Jamie and Victoria are inveterate VMI evident in his very fiber. No individual fans, that makes it all work perfectly. in the 20th century did more for his “After the memorial service, Jamie, nation and the world than George C. Victoria, and I joined Colonel Gibson Marshall. Next year will be the 75th ’77 at the office of the superintendent anniversary of the speech he gave at for a special presentation of a famHarvard introducing what would later ily heirloom. My late father, Samuel be called the Marshall Plan as he was Wilson Marshall ’925, was at one being awarded the Nobel Prize for time (1939, I believe) the head of the Peace. Blessings, Andy.”

Small Arms Division of the Ordnance Wayne Chiles reports that “I can Department. During that time, on my only say a hearty ‘thank you’ to you, mother’s kitchen table in Maryland, Charlie Russell, Easley Moore, Greg he and two of his associates designed Robertson, Granny Amos, Johnny the Cal. 30, M-1 Carbine (pronounced Mac and Jamie, Chuck Hough, and CAR bīne, not CAR bean), which beall the other brother rats who worked on behalf of all of us to ensure an en- Class of 1965: Bill Cather’s new home, “Lake House,” on Smith Lake came the officer’s weapon instead of near Cullman, Alabama. There are 600 miles of shoreline, and the the M-1 Garand rifle. It had a problem, joyable event for all. The buses were lake is up to 240 feet deep. though, with the operating rod in that a great asset, and the opening buffet Bob Wilkinson had a great time “at VMI on the piston head did not rotate, thus scoring the and Monday evening dinner were outstanding. I Founders Day and saw Rusty Evans, Bill Gib- cylinder and ultimately making the weapon fail took a couple of hours to walk around the Parade Ground Monday afternoon. The old joint actually son, Irwin McCumber, Jeff Gausepohl, Lou La- because too much gas blew by. He redesigned the piston to allow it to rotate so that it would never go hendro, and Doug Thomas. I am sorry I missed glows, a tribute to General Peay ’62. My only regret, shared by many, I think, is that the intrusion the reunion; there was too much going on with through the cylinder the same way twice in a row,

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Class Notes if ever, and for this, he received a patent (which I also donated).

“Once the weapon design was adopted by the Army, it became his job to travel around the country to small machine manufacturers and convert their production from whatever it had been to making these weapons for the upcoming war effort that everyone saw coming. One of these manufacturers was Underwood Typewriter. When he had completed the job at Underwood, the company presented him with a special weapon that has his initials and the word ‘Underwood’ on the receiver instead of a serial number but is otherwise in the traditional military finish. It may have been test-fired at the factory, but in any case, the barrel has not had a lot of bullets go through it. The stock appears to be mahogany and has the Ordnance stamp and a ‘W’ (which he told me stood for Winchester).

This is what we donated to the VMI Museum.

Frankly, I could not think of a better place for it

Class of 1965: Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, accepts the donation of the M-1 carbine designed by Samuel Wilson Marshall Jr. ’925 from Johnny Mac Marshall on the occasion of the 55th Reunion of the Class of ’65.

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to rest along with his Purple Heart from Korea.

“I want to add my voice to those who want to get together again in four years. Particularly in these difficult times, I believe it is important for us as the Class of 1965 to show up and let the VMI community know that we believe that there is much for which to stand up about the Institute.

After all, where would we have been these past 55 years without it? God bless our Class and VMI! ’65! ’65! ’65!

Bill Cather starts and ends with his joy of being a member of the Class of ’65! “After a wonderful time spent with my BRs and no problems traveling with her home dialysis, she complained of excruciating pain in her lower back. At first, it was diagnosed as muscle spasms, but as it persisted, the scans and X-rays showed kidney stones. The operation was a success, as they pulled out one the size of a golf ball and three the size of marbles.

The next day, she had a severe reaction to the antibiotic which made her shake violently and go into delirium. Today, she is on her third five-hour session of hemodialysis in order to cleanse her blood. She is showing good progress, and there will probably be several more sessions and then some intense physical therapy.

“For myself, I am getting myself in shape for my 24th year to lead a 20-mile hike in 10 hours for my Scout district. I park on the eighth floor of the parking deck, come down to the second floor to enter the hospital, walk about 400 yards, then climb to the eighth floor to her room. I do this twice a day. I am enclosing a picture of my Scouting family: Myself, two sons and a son-inlaw, two daughters-in-law, four grandsons, and one granddaughter. The sons and son-in-law are all Scoutmasters in different local troops.

“The other big event in my life this year is that I sold a piece of property last year, and before I could get to the bank from the closing, my sons called and said, ‘Wouldn’t you rather spend that money on a large lake house we could all enjoy together instead of leaving it to us when you are gone, and we will pay all operating expenses?’

Sounded good to me since they work for a large commercial contractor (Stewart Perry). In nine months, they had a 5,000-foot home on a landscaped lot, and we love it. Plenty of room for any BRs. If there is enough interest for an interim reunion in 2023, I would be glad to work on it or head it up.”

Lou Siegel said, “Two weekends ago, I took my two Virginia grandsons over to VMI for a parade.

I live in Nelson County, about an hour away, so it’s an easy drive. It turned out that it was a reunion and football weekend, and the place was packed. We did find parking, and the parade was terrific. And there was an Old Yell event in the courtyard. After listening for about five minutes, I walked up to the guy who seemed to be directing it, Thom Brashears ’95, Alumni Association chief operating officer, and asked if he could add one for the Class of ’65, since we had not gotten to do so two weeks before. He looked a bit distressed to start with—there have been a record number of reunions this fall—and the answer was, ‘No.’ I should have just asked one of the guys atop the sentinel box. But, in spirit, ’65 was there!

Carr Hyatt writes, “I am sorry that I missed the 55th. COVID-19 exposure messed up my plans.

Hopefully, we will be able to get together this winter for a basketball game. Larry Egan and I have watched most of the football games together, and I went to the ETSU game with a former Keydet linebacker, No. 18, and his dad. Hope you and Jane are well! Thanks again for being our superb class agent.”

It has been an honor to serve the brother rats of ’65 and a joy to get to know you all so well. Please remember ’65! ’65! ’65!

Mickey

1966

Nick Hoskot

Finally! On Oct. 3-5, 2021, many BRs gathered in Lexington to celebrate our much postponed 55th Reunion, and many others—myself included—were present in spirit if not in the flesh! A great time was had by all according to the reports I received.

Kudos to Paul Robblee and the committee for organizing and hosting this 55th Reunion. As Paul stated in an email: “Al and Woody both assured me if you can get the BRs together, the reunion will take care of itself. And it did and then some more! Best parts for me were ’66’s great sportscaster, Cliff Martin, leading the class in the traditional Old Yell and then mounting the sentinel box to get it done with Marshall and Clark, who had asked that Cliff stand in for Randy. Great call, Marshall and Clark, and you ‘done’ good, Cliff.”

VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1966: Ian Ackroyd-Kelly, John Adams, Hugh Adams, Leroy Alford, Ronald Ayres, Glenn Baumgartner, Robert Bland, Frederick Burks, Michael Burton, Craig Caldwell, Warren Channel, Peter Charrington, Herbert Chittum, Richard Daugherity, Graham Dean, Joe Dictor, Randolph Earnest, William Edmunds, Peter Farley, Thomas Foster, George Gehr, Joseph Gesker, Richard Goodall, Thomas Gray, Edward Guida, James Hannah, Horace Harrington, Richard Hines, Charles Homiller, John Jumper, John Lien, Frank Louthan, Paul Maini, Clifford Martin, John McEwen, John McNemar, Thomas Morris, Louis Nichols, John Odom, Daniel Phlegar, David Pinkus, Lawrence Reifsnider, Carl Rhodes, Philip Richard, Robin Ritchie, Paul Robblee, David Roberts, Charles Rothwell, John Rowe, Woodson Sadler, Ernest Saunders, Dale Saville, Robert Sleeker, James Smith, Kenneth Spitzer, James Szymanski, Marshall Taylor, Thomas Tolbert, James Upton, Jay Wegrzyn, James Whitehurst, David Whitt, Lewis Williams, and Edward Willis.

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Class Notes

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1.

5.

2.

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Class of 1966 1. Marshall Taylor, Clark Reifsnider, and Cliff Martin atop the sentinel box at the reunion.

2. Memorialized at the new National Museum of the U.S. Army are the six Army brother rats of VMI’s Class of 1966 who gave their lives in the Vietnam War. The class raised more than $7,800 towards creation of the plaque, which is now displayed on the Army Wall of Honor leading to the museum’s main entrance. Of all the various unit tribute plaques on the wall, the only military

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colleges represented are VMI and Norwich.

3. Margaret Sonstein, Dorcas Wilkerson, and Jane Conner at the 55th Reunion.

4. Marshall Taylor, Clark Reifsnider, and Cliff Martin prepare to lead the “youngest” class at the 55th Reunion parade.

5. Parky and Mary Fran Parkman at Mount Rushmore during their late summer 2021 trip to South Dakota.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Founders Day and the Institute These notes are a bit sparse, so Society Dinner this past Novemif you submitted some news and ber and had a wonderful time. it does not appear in this edition, As Clark noted: “A great turnout well, yours truly had a “technifor ’66 with these BRs in attencal” problem. I had been deleting dance: Tom Slater, Rich Goodand cleaning out “stuff” in my all, Woody Sadler, Paul Robjunk, archive, and trash folders, blee, Parky Parkman, Doug and I inadvertently—because I Richard, Rich Hines, Duane was not paying attention—deWilliams, Randolph Williams, leted everything in those three Tom Morris, and Clark. The folders! (All of my class agent many wives add beauty to the notes and stuff are/were stored Class of 1966: Gen. John Jumper spoke at VMI’s 9/11 memorial and wreathgentlemen they accompany! Anin archive). Anyhow, moving laying ceremony Sept. 11, 2021. other indicator of active BR parright along. If you did submit an item(s) and it is not in here, please send it to me the Black Hills. They enjoyed the people they met ticipation as the class continues to lead the way in many areas affecting VMI. and I’ll make sure it is included in our next class and the sightseeing opportunities.

Parky and wife Mary Fran were also disapNow that travel restrictions are relaxing, please notes.

Ed Guida wrote in early November: “Received pointed that they were not able to attend our 55th provide any newsy items (e.g., Thanksgiving, my latest Alumni Review a few days ago and because, as they were playing golf at Massanutten Christmas, and new year’s parties or gatherings) commented, ‘Gee, I didn’t know we were print- (Virginia), Mary Fran slipped on a steep, wet hill- that you, your family, and other BRs have particiside and broke both the fibula and tibia bones near pated in or done. The due date for our next notes ing fishing pictures. And such puny bass and pike.’ Golly, I’ll have to send you some of mine. her left ankle. Surgery was in early October, and will be Friday, Feb. 11, 2022!

Take care, enjoy life, and smile!

Do we need to start a contest? I am laying down she was still in the healing process in early NoAll my Best, the gauntlet with this email and challenging those vember with the hope being that the leg will begin to support some weight on it by mid-November.

Nick guys and any others to see what kind of fishermen they are.” I suggested to Ed that he contact Parky, hopefully by the time you are reading this, Mary Fran will be fully recovered, and you both Pete Charrington, Pete Farley, and Paul Maini to begin getting together some “fishy” stories and will be able to be out on the links again!

Jane Conner, Peggie Sonstein, Dorcas Wilkin- Lonnie Jan Abernathy photos and organizing a “big mouth” fishing conson, and Doma Browder attended the reunion and test. If anyone else is interested, contact Ed. were glad they came. As always, BR widows are Parky Parkman and his wife, Mary Fran, spent a week in South Dakota last August and had a welcome at any Institute event, especially ’66 rewonderful time. They visited Mount Rushmore, unions.

Clark Reifsnider and many others attended It is again time for my engrossing report on the the Bad Lands, Deadwood, Custer State Park, and activities of the last three months, August through November 2021. One of the most asked questions I received was about F.O. Moore. He now prefers to be called Fran, and after both he and Kathleen recovered from a bout with COVID-19, they are happily back at home in Chandler, North Carolina, after he spent more than 13 days in the ICU due to a cytokine storm when he became infected.

Terry Moore and Beth stopped by Atlanta on the way home from their extended Portugal trip to visit their son and family who live here. We had dinner with them at a great Persian restaurant.

Beth and Joan both went to high school in the Middle East and love that cuisine. In an email last fall, I sent the chronicle about the trip and Terry losing his wallet and passport and the eventful efforts to get a replacement. In early November, he Class of 1966: The class was well represented at the Institute Society Dinner, with a number writes that no one has found or used his cards or of brother rats and their spouses attending.

ID, but there is info from the airline that it might

1967

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Class Notes be in the first-class seat that cannot be easily accessed but may someday be returned when a mechanic can work on it.

In September, Bill Fleshood set up a dinner at a great seafood place and invited Joan and me and Mike and Mari Bagnulo to join him and Jo for a visit. He prefers to be called William now. Someone asked me if I wanted to be called Lonnie, as that name is in my system, but probably not, as only the VA and the IRS insist on using it. Lonnie was my grandfather who lived with us many years Class of 1967: Pat O’Brien, back in the air again. ago. Call me anything you like, as I think I have heard just about everything at least once.

Our ranks continue to dwindle, as Harley Duane and Tom Engleman both passed last fall.

I remember Tom for his warm spirit and years of teaching special needs children. Harley provided years of support for the Keydet Club.

George Elmore: “If you missed attending Harley’s celebration of life, it was a great service and highlighted what a wonderful person he was.”

My last exchange with Tom a few weeks before he passed was a concern for F.O. He said, “Concern here for F.O. We were in summer school together in summer 1967, passing modern physics plaguing both of us. Spent a lot of time together sharing living quarters uptown.” It came from his email address of “yayabrother.”

Tom Gritzmacher sent me the notice that Taras Galysh passed, following the passing of his older Class of 1967: Tom Rhodes, also performing in the air. brother, Roman Galysh ’64, in July. Taras and I were 1st Class privates together in the band, and he was as easy going as any BR, I recall. Too many friends lost too soon.

Let’s hope for a large reunion crowd April 2426, 2022. Even if you have strong feelings about VMI and how things are operating now, remember our times in the true Old Corps as the truly great times that they were. Also remember it is not about us anymore but supporting the future leaders of our country, the current cadets. Come and relive those years with your brothers and tell the embellished stories one more time. Carole and Bob Green are doing a great job heading up the Reunion Committee and are expecting to see you Class of 1967: Bob Hess and his daughter, there.

Monique, on their cross-county drive to Mike Holloman responded to Wayne MarVirginia for his Rally4Vets project. shall’s request for help finding a service dog. “I

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don’t have a solution to his problem, but my daughter in Roanoke is very active as a volunteer with Saint Francis Service Dogs and she suggests assistancedogsinternational.org.” As of this writing, Wayne has had little success with his quest.

Along the way last fall, there was some discussion about playing soldier and military surplus stuff. Phil Gioia gave a personal review: “Growing up as an Army brat, we had about as much equipment as you could need to stage a small-scale invasion of a small country—without live ammunition, of course. On every Army post, there was a salvage yard where excess equipment could be bought at cheap prices. Sometimes these were the expected: Single-burner mountain cook stoves running on pressurized fuel, Bergen-type rucksacks, web belts, tent pegs, shelter halves, field telephones in leather cases, etc. But occasionally, there was something unique. When my dad was stationed at West Point in the mid-1950s, the military academy was ridding itself of hundreds of beautiful oak bow-backed Windsor chairs that had been in all the cadet barracks rooms and all the classrooms. They had been made by a New York firm in 1876 and were in various stages— some very heavily used, some in great shape. Dad bought 10 of them in great shape. When we were next stationed in Italy, he had them completely reconditioned by a firm of really top-notch restorers. They sold for $1 apiece at the salvage yard in 1956, and I can’t imagine the restoration in Italy cost much either. We still have most of them.” I added that growing up 100 yards from the Atlantic, I dug my foxholes in sand and played Marines holding back Japanese invasion.

I have often shared the stories of our family members who served. Here, Larry Adams shares some great tributes. “Jan, my dad was USNA 1935 from Lynchburg, Virginia. Prior to Pearl Harbor, he worked in Panama. During the day, he worked for the British Tobacco Company, and at night and on weekends he worked for naval intelligence reporting on German and Italian activities in the Canal Zone. Later, he was assigned to a training company in Fort Pierce, Florida, where he trained Marine scouts and raiders and Navy UDT (frogmen). Fort Pierce is considered the birthplace of the UDT/SEALs and has a great UDT SEAL museum on the beach. Later, he was stationed

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes in San Diego on an admiral’s staff planning the amphibious invasion of Japan. He spoke often of three of his Naval Academy classmates. One was Buzz Borries, an all-American halfback. During the war, Buzz was credited with saving 200 sailors after his carrier was sunk and they were adrift for 45 days. Another classmate was Slade Cutter, who kicked the winning field goal (the only score) in the 1934 Army/Navy game. Slade was a submarine commander who is credited with sinking the second-most tonnage of Japanese warships.

He was awarded four Navy Crosses. My dad’s best friend at the academy was Sam Adams, no relation and no beer connection, though he was from Massachusetts. Sam, a carrier aviator, is credited with locating the fourth Japanese carrier in the battle of Midway. The following day, while sinking a Japanese destroyer, he was shot down and killed. Sam posthumously received the Navy Cross.”

Jan adds this: I hope you have had the opportunity to see the movie “Midway.” Impressive and more accurate than most any war movie we grew up watching. No John Wayne histrionics, no glaring untruths, mostly raw action. I think about the pilot in the previous paragraph—Sam Adams—and remember the only Navy flyer I met as a youngster. William Price was my sixth-grade teacher and a real gentleman. After being shot out of the sky on his bomb run, he was later picked up by either a PBY or submarine. Whichever BR once told me about his high school “Band of Brothers” teacher and coach, I

would like to have the story to share.

We are getting used to Bert Burckard and his great history lessons. Here is another, and I hope the photo gets in this issue of the AR. “The Isle of Wight County Museum in Smithfield invited me to tell the story of the Jan. 16, 1781, Battle of Mackie’s Mill to the Norfolk Chapter of the Sons of the American Revolution Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021, at the Princess Anne Country Club in Virginia Beach.” Bert, museum volunteer in the authentic uniform of local patriot Col. Josiah Parker of Macclesfield on Smith’s Neck, presented how

Class of 1967: John Horner and his wife, Annette, and daughter and granddaughter at Halloween.

Class of 1967: Brother rats attending Harley Duane’s service are Bob Randolph, John Gupton, Tom Rhodes, Ron Niedermayer, Dave Wilkinson, John Goode, Rick Irby, and Lane Kelly.

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the Isle of Wight County Militia faced off against Crown forces under Gen. Benedict Arnold near the bridge over Champion Swamp toward the end of the American Revolutionary War. The full story of this skirmish, including the decisive commitment by a German Hessian unit on the British side, was researched and written by Robert Friar, local historian and resident. This publication is available in the Museum on Main Street. Bert also has an ancestor who never fought in the state of Virginia but was a Union soldier in the Civil War, and Bert regularly conducts tours and gives talks about the fighting in the Tidewater area in full Yankee dress.

Pat O’Brien: “Hey, Jan, just thought I’d catch up now that the world is starting to get back to some semblance of normalcy and I can finally get back out doing things. The attached picture is me in a Stearman biplane. My daughter gave a flight in it as a birthday present. It’s my first flight in a single-engine airplane since my Mach 2 flight in an F-104 over Edwards Air Force Base in 1973.

This was quite a bit slower but was a blast. Activity wise, my duties as a docent at the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum are starting to get back to normal (we’ve been mostly shut down for about a year-and-a-half). We still have a lot of restrictions (stay in one spot, no more than 10 visitors at a time, no more than 10 minutes each), but it’s a start. I work on Fridays, and our lead docent that day is Joe Cestaro ’55. My other major activity is coaching a 16- to 18-year-old baseball team in the Vienna Babe Ruth League. In addition to coaching, I’m also the league secretary and just became the commissioner of district 6 of the state Babe Ruth League. Health-wise, I’m getting creaky, but nothing that a couple of ibuprofen can’t fix. I set my bar at a reasonable level: Wake up + get out of bed = successful day. Hope all is going well with you and everyone. Rah Virginia Mil! Pat.” There was a lot of correspondence about USO entertainment shows in Vietnam that centered on Martha Raye and Bob Hope. I was not there, but most BRs were complimentary of Hope and his shows that were often impossible to get to see for a variety of reasons. My information on Martha Raye says she was a nurse, in fact, but not a military person unless she was a reservist.

Too many versions to be sure for me. But there is no doubt she was a powerful woman, and her love and devotion for her special boys earned her a grave at Fort Bragg in their cemetery. The most insightful coverage on the USO came from

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Class Notes Wayne Marshall: “Re: USO action in Vietnam.

Bob Hope, veteran of the World War II USO tours that left 37 performers dead, started pushing for a tour in Vietnam in 1963 that did not come about until 1964. During their stay in Saigon, the VC blew up the hotel across the street, killing and wounding a number of people. Captured enemy documents later revealed that Bob Hope’s performers were the actual target of the attack, but they were delayed in their arrival because of a malfunction in part of their stage equipment. After the hotel was checked for further explosives, the performers found that all of the glass was blown out of the hotel windows and that the shards had to be dumped out of their beds before they could go to sleep. Electric and water service to the hotel were not restored during their stay. The following year’s Christmas tour in Pleiku was marked with several locations being hit with mortar fire.

To safeguard the performers, multiple locations were set up, and no one knew until the last minute where the performances were to be held. After the 1968 Bob Hope show at Cu Chi, the stage was destroyed by mortar fire after the performers had left the stage, and when the plane carrying the performers flew out that evening, it was fired on. Most Vietnam soldiers never got to see a live USO show. A small group of USO performers came to Chau Doc while I was there. The show at province level was kept from the troops out in the districts, and I only found out about it by accident while picking up mail for our camp. I grounded the helicopter for ‘mechanical problems,’ and the crew and I stayed for the show. After the show, I talked to three of the female performers and convinced them to fly down to Tinh Bing district the next morning bright and early to see the beauty of Vietnam along the Cambodian border. We were in the middle of nowhere where the Mekong River entered Vietnam and the Ho Chi Minh trail ended. You should have seen the faces of those guys! Unfortunately, the VC chose this moment to launch a prolonged attempt to overrun the compound, and the girls spent the next three days with us in the bunkers before the attack was broken and we were able to get a Huey in to fly them out. The girls never complained and even put on some small skits in the command bunker during breaks in the VC entertainment. Before they left, they thanked us for giving them better insight into what our soldiers were going through. All these years later, Ann Margret still refers to the Vietnam soldiers as her ‘gentlemen.’ I consider all the USO

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performers as much as the rest of us who spent time over there and the women will always be our ‘ladies.’” Thanks, Wayne, and also the others who replied.

Phil Gioia: “Wayne, that’s a terrific story. I wish you were out here; from the attached notice, I’m giving a presentation on Hope’s USO and Christmas shows. You’d be a great commentator. My infantry company in First Cavalry was given four slots to Hope’s show at Christmas ’69. Of course, the maneuvering for those slots began immediately. I told my first sergeant to assign them to the four men who had been in the field the longest.

That ended the maneuvering. Phil.”

Joe Stafford: “Joyce and I had a great summer at our beach place in Bethany Beach. There were only minor COVID-19 inconveniences this year compared to last year. They are putting up homes everywhere down there. Our county, Kiplinger, has named Delaware/Sussex County the best (cheapest) place to retire in the U.S. High cost of living states like New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey, as well as others, are sending thousands of Boomer retirees our way. For the holidays, Joyce and I will be visiting her brother’s place in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. His farmhouse was built in 1690 and is close to Washington’s Crossing where Washington crossed the Delaware and surprised the Hessians in New Jersey. Our daughter’s family, including the four grandkids, will be at our house for Christmas. Hoping local attractions like the Udvar-Hazy will be open. After the new year, we are looking forward to traveling again.

In mid-January, we are heading to Hilton Head to stay with friends for a week. The next week, we are off to Cape Coral, Florida, for a week in a VRBO rental. We will be visiting several snowbird friends in the area. In March, we are heading to the Players Championship and then on to Phillies spring training for a week, finishing up in Tallahassee for a week. In June, we are planning a trip with friends out West to visit the three northwestern U.S. National Parks. In late August, we are taking a cruise with friends that goes from Boston to Quebec.”

Max Toch: “Terryann and I are leaving today for a vacation and cruise with J.I. and Brenda Orrison. We will be touring Italy, Turkey, and Greece over the next 10 days or so. All of the best, Max.” I look forward to photos to share.

Thomas Rhodes ’00: “Mr. Abernathy, I wanted to give you a quick update on my dad, Tom Rhodes. Dad won’t share this, but he placed

second in the 2021 U.S. National Aerobatic Competition (Intermediate Class) in Salina, Kansas, back in September. He is an amazing pilot, and it’s a joy to watch him fly. Other than flying, he and my mom have a second home, a farm in Sherman, Texas, where they tend to their cows, sheep, and donkeys. He is always active doing something and has 10 grandkids.” I am never surprised at anything our BR Tom does. Congratulations!

William and Jo Fleshood supported their granddaughter’s cross-country team in a fundraising event. Bill came in first in his division. He said he would have taken it easier if he had known he was the only one in his division.

John Shea: “As the only member of the Class of ’67 I am aware of who deployed to Desert Storm, my motivation for volunteering was to use my experience in Vietnam to help the next generation to survive. To all of our class and all the other classes before and since, hopefully, we have helped hold the nation together. John.” Thank you, John; many of us had no idea.

Phil Gioia: “News here is our daughter Victoria graduated from UCLA in June. ‘Danger Close!,’ my memoir, will be published by Stackpole Books in May 2022. Am working with Stackpole’s production team on it at present. Next book, ‘Frumious,’ now well underway, is an alternate history novel set in 1959 during the Cold War. It’s about a dragon that gets separated from its clan and becomes a pawn between the U.S. and the Soviets.”

I trust I have covered enough and not left out anything too important. I do try to hit the high spots of what you share and send to me. Thank you again for giving me the opportunity to be your voice and sometimes confessor, conscience, and confidant. As brother rats, you men and your wives mean more to me than you know—even those who are boneheads like me.

1968

Tom Hickey

John VanLandingham (Eugene, Oregon): “In May, we attended the wedding of the daughter of my brother, Jimbo ’72, in Virginia Beach. My wife, Martha, officiated. Quick trip, Thursday to Sunday, but we also got to spend time with Skip Roberts and Lewis and Mary Pelham White

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes (Virginia Beach). Lewis recounted having a hospital visit and seeing some guy with a VMI lanyard; it was Don Lynch (Virginia Beach).

“Then in July, we attended my wife’s annual meeting of the Conference of Chief Justices in Williamsburg. Got to see Skip and Kay Roberts (in their new home in a condo on the beach just north of Cape Henry). Spent an afternoon with Tommy and Carol Boyd (Ware Neck, Virginia) at their old family place in Gloucester, Burgh Westra; even had some fresh Chesapeake Bay oysters at a funky outdoor café (paper plates). Had lunch in Richmond with George Squires’ widow, Kitty Sue, and George’s sister and brother-in-law, Donna and Richard Bower. Finally drank some of Hallie Smith’s (Richmond, Virginia) good French reds in Richmond. Disappointed we didn’t get to see so many others. Maybe next year when we hope (?) to retire.”

Kitty Sue Squires (Henrico, Virginia) echoed John VL’s input when she wrote, “I am doing well. I don’t have much to report. The only thing I can think of is that George’s sister, brother-in-law, and I had lunch with John VanLandingham in July while he was in the Richmond area. He has been very good at keeping in touch with us since George’s death.”

John Plummer (Forest, Virginia): “I only think of myself being 50 years and a couple months old (300 months to be exact). Sandy and I are doing well. It is getting to the car show season in Central Virginia. I have been into rehabbing little British cars in retirement. My first attempt was a ’69 TR6 (I had the itch since ’68 when I test drove one prior to going to Vietnam). I sold that one almost two years ago and bought a 1957 TR3 project.

The project is almost complete and will be going to show on her own beginning on Labor Day Sunday at Boar’s Head Inn in Charlottesville and then again Sept. 18 in Richmond at St. Joseph’s Villa. Anyone in either vicinity, look for a little red TR3; both events benefit charities, UVA Cancer Center and the orphanage, respectively. We are doing well considering the mileage on us, scheduling our lives around doctor appointments. Hope to get through the COVID-19 and back to living our lives and maybe traveling again.”

Skip Anders (Mesa, Arizona): “We had small get-together at our residence with Cornelia Harris (Phoenix, Arizona) and Dean Kershaw (Fairfield, Virginia) June 10. Dean was visiting the Harris’ home en route to some family business in the Pacific Northwest, and we got

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together for dinner and some drinks.”

Hoose Van Hoose (Vivian, Louisiana): “Married life is wonderful. We just got home from Branson, Missouri. Judy has never been there, so she loved it. I am so lucky to have found her. I somehow have nothing but great memories of the Institute. Even the ‘Wanabees’ in the class of ’66 didn’t ruin our rat year.

“Tom Jones ’69 recently contacted me about our trip to Europe in summer 1966. It was me, Tom, B.J. Waldo (Lakeside, Arizona), Randy Urmston ’66, and the late Martin Delaney ’66.

I found some old slides I had taken and put them on a flash drive and sent them to each one. It was great talking to them. All my ‘good slides’ are lost.

I tried to make Tom my ‘rat’ the whole trip, but he had my number from the get-go. Great memories!

I called B.J. and Randy to confirm their addresses.

I talked with Randy quite a bit, and he finally said he had to go because he was going to a VMI reunion with Pete Farmer (Edmonds, Washington).

I immediately interrupted him and said, ‘James Randall Farmer, he was my roommate for three years!’ I got really excited! The next day, I got an email from Pete with a picture of my other roomie, Skip Roberts, and Randy and Larry Stetson (Tacoma, Washington). Life is ‘good to me,’ and I’m so happy to be a part of it.”

Herb Laine (Chesapeake, Virginia) “We’ve been staying pretty close to home with this Delta variant going around. So far, we’ve been healthy and hope to keep it that way. We did meet Howard and Sally Donald (Richmond, Virginia) for lunch in June. It was good catching up with them.

Our children were here last month for our annual week on the Outer Banks. It was the first time in a year we had all been together, but we plan on changing that. We’ve already booked our flights for Thanksgiving in Chicago and Christmas in California, and a trip to St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands for my nephew’s wedding (brother-in-law, B.J. Waldo’s oldest son) in between. So, we will have a busy month or so.”

Mike Malone (Bonsall, California): “Looking back, No. 75 came upon us pretty quickly.

Jody and I just returned last night from a 2-plus week road trip around the West. It was a really good time to travel, except for all of the heavy smoke from the many wildfires currently ongoing throughout the West.”

Joe LeVine (Abingdon, Virginia): “Donna and I are continuing work on the total remodel of our Abingdon house. We started in August 2020 by

taking the house down to the studs and have been living in our very small guest cottage since. The project has been a challenge due to contractor quarantines and building material shortages. Fingers crossed we’ll finish up and move back into the house this fall.

“Donna was diagnosed with COVID-19 in February. She was in the hospital three days and had serious symptoms for several weeks. It took about five months for her to regain her stamina.

Even though we were together throughout the quarantine, I, somehow, managed to avoid catching it. After quarantine, I tested negative for antibodies, confirming I didn’t catch COVID-19. In March, I received the one and done J&J vaccine, so I now have immunity through the vaccine.

Donna has natural immunity from having had COVID-19. Donna and I have each had multiple antibody tests. Both of our antibody levels have been increasing over time. Still, Donna’s natural immunity antibody count is more than triple my vaccine-induced antibody level.

“Due to the ongoing remodeling of our Abingdon house, our normal winter move to Florida will be delayed this year. (Remember when there was such a thing as normal?) We will, eventually, move down to Florida this winter. Both our daughters, Aimee and Kara, live there. Aimee’s house is on the Intercoastal Waterway, only 2.9 miles from our New Smyrna Beach condo. Kara lives about an hour away in Winter Park, Florida.

Our long-term plan is to spend winters in NSB so we don’t have to shovel snow and to spend summer and early fall in Abingdon so we won’t have to run from hurricanes.”

Wayne Burton (St. Mary’s, Georgia): “While at The Citadel Friday evening reception, Lew Yeouze (Peachtree City, Georgia), George Buzzard (Waynesboro, Virginia), and I had a lengthy conversation with Amy Goetz, the VMI Alumni Agencies’ chief communications officer. Getting right to the point, I told them many in our class and members of the ‘Old Corps’ are apprehensive about Lieutenant Colonel Love and what will happen at the Institute. Our biggest concern is not knowing what is going on. They told us that they have been meeting with Lieutenant Colonel Love and are convinced she has VMI and its fundamental values in order. Of course, all we know is what we have read in various media. After talking details for around 30 minutes, I feel much more confident that the VMI staff is on the right track.

Keep in mind that they cannot publicly tell us what

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Class Notes Pro-Ams by playing in the Dominion Energy going to the Boys Home. It was quite a celebrathey are doing, as the media will never get it right.

Charity Classic in Richmond in late October “This meeting was followed by a visit with Gen- tory event with good times enjoyed by all.”

2021. This was his 72nd Pro-Am, and this time, Bill Cloyd (Lynchburg, Virginia): “We are eral Wins ’85, superintendent. I told him, ‘We mostly staying quietly at home. We have gone to he and his teammates celebrated their win. But don’t know what we don’t know.’ He assured us that they have the VMI values in focus and ‘con- the football games at VMI and watched the away don’t think success on the golf course is a rare thing for Walt. The prior week, he played in the tinuing to move forward.’ It was very assuring to games on ESPN+. We will miss the Samford speak with General Wins and his communications game at VMI; we are going to Myrtle Beach, but SAS Championship Pro-Am in Cary, North Carolina. This time, he and his teammates had to “setstaff. They tried to make contact with as many we will still try to watch on ESPN+.”

Jim Haney (Sun City Center, Florida): “Pris- tle” for third place. Outstanding! alumni as possible that evening to give us updates Skip Roberts (Virginia Beach, Virginia): “It has cilla and I are still residing in Florida since 2005. and to truly listen to our concerns. They know that keeping the alumni informed is vital. Good for After many years of enjoying playing golf, we been a crazy year. Kay took two falls and ended up with a serious whiplash issue, which finally them. The monthly town hall is probably our best are now focusing on other activities and staying resolved itself. We had a wonderful six days in otherwise active. I have completed a two-year opportunity to stay informed. They have my support, but I will continue to monitor their progress term as the local Military Officers Association of Seattle in July visiting the McDowells (Medina, America chapter president and now starting as the Washington) and Farmers (Edmonds, Washin preserving VMI’s history and culture.” ington). We left there to go to the I sent an email to everyone about Tetons for a month only to come ChandlerFEST, the event that honback early because of the smoke ored Chandler Williams (Midlofrom the wildfires, which were not thian, Virginia). Here is Chandler’s good for Kay’s breathing issues. after-action report: “The Manakin “We could not have been in a betEpiscopal Church ChandlerFEST ter place to deal with COVID-19. to celebrate my 75th birthday and Our retirement community did a generate revenue for the Boys fantastic job keeping all our dining Home of Virginia was a wonderand exercise facilities and outdoor ful event. There were over 200 in venues open. It was like being on attendance, to include a number of a cruise ship. I hate to think how it our brother rats and their spouses. would have been had we still been The brother rats in attendance were in Lexington with the gyms closed, Guy Wilson (Charlotte, North etc. Seventy-five years sure went Carolina), Jim Burns (Henrico, by quickly.”

Virginia), Bryan Barton (Oakton, Dee Biggs (Acton, MassachuVirginia), Jim Henry (Williamssetts): “We have been at home burg, Virginia), Dick Wood (Richmostly, but in May, we went to Hilmond, Virginia), Richard Wallach Class of 1968: Guy Wilson, Roy McLeod ’60, John Byrd, Randolph Wil(The Plains, Virginia), Tom Bur- liams ’66, (kneeling) Jim Burns, Brooke Doggett ’58, Bryan Barton, Tom ton Head with our youngest son, nett (Midlothian, Virginia), Mike Burnett, Chandler Williams, Bill Daniels ’61, Mike Gompf, and Dick Wood Casey, and his wife for a week. I had breakfast with Gil Piddington Gompf (North Chesterfield, Vir- at the Phillips farm in Midlothian, Virginia, for ChandlerFEST Sept. 26, (Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania) ginia), Larry Ryan, and John Byrd 2021. At the event but not pictured are Jim Henry and Richard Wallach. one morning and also had dinner (North Chesterfield, Virginia). A bluegrass band performed, along with a solo gui- Military Order of World Wars Region VI (Florida with Frank Pinizzotto (Pawleys Island, South and Puerto Rico) commander. As such, this next Carolina) as Frank drove down from near Myrtle tarist singing patriotic songs. It was a humbling occasion for me and my whole family. My wife, year I will serve as the 2022 MOWW National Beach. We had a great time visiting with Frank Robbie, had each of our 10 grandchildren in T- Convention chair set in Jacksonville from Aug. and Patty, as always, and we even got Frank out shirts numbered 1-10 in their birth order. Each 3-6, 2022. Locally, coordinating Florida Boys on the golf course the following day.

“Our oldest granddaughter is a senior in high grandchild gave brief comments about me, and State selection for three high schools and recognizing Scouts for achieving highest awards (Gold school at Boise High School in Boise, Idaho, and yes, their words ‘stole the show.’ Donnie WheatAward, Eagle Scout, Summit Venture Scout and is the captain of the soccer team. She has been ley ’70, executive director of the Boys Home of on the team since she was a freshman, and all Quartermaster Sea Scout) throughout Southwest Virginia, gave a presentation, and the event generand South Florida. Staying busy and enjoying three years they have lost in the finals of the state ated good monetary support for the Boys Home. I am thankful to all of our brother rats who made a meeting young adults exhibiting leadership po- championship. In early September, she committed to attend Westminster College, a DII school contribution to the Boys Home or bought tickets tential.”

Walt Jeffress (Fairfax, Virginia) continued his in Salt Lake City, and the very next day, she tore for the drawing of the two Vidanta, Mexico, vacaavocation of playing in PGA Tour Champions her ACL and did some other damage which will tion weeks being given away with the proceeds

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes take a year to heal. Her sister is a sophomore and is also on the soccer team and had a very nice year. Last weekend, they made it to the finals for the fourth straight year and beat the team that had beat them in the finals the past three years, only to lose again 1-0. Great season, but the girls were very disappointed, especially the seniors who lost in that game four years in a row. Our youngest granddaughter just turned 13 and is growing up very fast. We had all of them in Boston this summer for the wedding of our youngest son, and it was a great week to have all of the kids and the grandchildren home.

“I talked to Bill Bouck (Deerfield Beach, Florida) a couple of times, and he and Gail are doing well and getting in a lot of fishing and golf occasionally. Billy goes fishing with Bill Cobb (Pompano Beach, Florida) regularly, and they catch a lot of fish out of Bill’s boat, the Good To Me. “I am hoping we will be able to resume the April golf outing that Kevin Henry (Winston-Salem, North Carolina) graciously hosts, as that was always a lot of fun and an opportunity to catch up with lots of BRs.” Tim Underwood (The Villages, Florida), “Been traveling local—mostly day trips. Also, life has pretty much returned to normal as far as activities and entertainment events. Like everyone, we are starting to be impacted by shortages—of workers, consumables, and patience.”

Ron Gallagher (Poquoson, Maryland), “Just had dinner with son, Major Ira Gallagher, in Charlottesville. More military law reviews of some sort. Life is good for all here.”

Larry Ryan (Toano, Virginia), “I’m in Portugal walking the Portuguese Camino Santiago de Compostela. After a year in the U.S., I’m getting anxious for another OCONUS job. I did take a temporary position in Japan for three months last spring. I enjoyed seeing many BRs at ChandlerFEST.” Pat Martinez (Kensington, Maryland), Rick’s widow, wrote, “Looking forward to visiting my son, Jason, and his family in Austin, Texas, where two of my grandchildren, Millie and Josephine, live, and my son gets to take them to preschool.

He works for University of Texas at Austin in their legal department, and the girls are enjoying their time there. I am enjoying my volunteer work with the Army Arlington Ladies. I get my exercise working in the experimental garden of my HOA and my outside area, as I have an end unit, singlelevel townhome with a lot of plants and bushes.

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Looking forward to COVID-19 relief and getting out more, as I am within walking distance of Strathmore Music Center.”

Peggy Simmons (Courtland, Virginia), Paul’s widow, wrote, “It seems I have a football, volleyball, or travel softball game every day. I love every minute of following my two younger grandchildren, A.J. and Tripp! Our oldest granddaughter, Meghan, graduated from Longwood and is the activities director at a local nursing home. Our other granddaughter, Maddie, is a junior at Longwood.

They all light up my life!

“I visited John and Margaret Byrd in Richmond in October and went with them and Jay Slaughter (Frisco, Texas) for a most delightful afternoon.

Jay has been promising to treat me to a bottle of champagne to celebrate my second victory with cancer. I am feeling especially well and thankful.

Hold your family and friends tight.”

Jim Burns (Henrico, Virginia): “With available time in retirement and the help of Google/YouTube, I have learned to be a carpenter, electrician, and plumber as I rebuild a barn, a boathouse, and 220 feet of Potomac River shoreline bulkhead.

Two VMI sons have big events coming soon: Colin ’07 will have his third child and Sloan ’10 will be getting married with a Jamaica family wedding in May 2022.”

1969

Walter Judd

Greetings, Brother Rats and Friends of the VMI Class of 1969, This has been a truly eventful quarter with many ups and downs. Several of us attended Rudy Segaar’s service in tiny Washington, Virginia, and then a larger bunch of us traveled to Lexington in November to witness the presentation of VMI Foundation’s Distinguished Service Awards to two of our own BRs. Rudy Segaar’s memorial service was held Aug. 21 at Trinity Episcopal Church in Washington, Virginia. Spunky Butler drove Bomber Hudson, Thornton Newlon, and Glenn White from the Richmond area. Bob and Ruth Waldo came south from Lake Frederick, Virginia. Tom Hickman drove from Taneytown, Maryland. Walt and Beverly Judd drove over from Yorktown. Jim

Tate ’67 of Roanoke showed up in reenactor’s uniform. Several others from various reenactor groups also came in period uniforms. It was a warm sunny day, so the reenactors wished for lighter-weight uniforms!

While on the trip, I got a call from Steve and Gail Harrington seeking Larry Brydon’s phone number. Charlie Bryan provided it so Gail could call Larry and Katherine to wish them a happy 50th anniversary, exactly a year after the Harringtons had celebrated theirs. Gail told me Steve had retired from his dental practice in June and joined the ranks of the retired persons.

One of our short-time BRs (nine days) died in January. Michael J. Visnicky, age 73, of Trumbull, Connecticut, passed away Jan. 2, 2021, after a courageous battle with a long-term illness.

Michael was born in Bridgeport, Connecticut, to the late Joseph and Mathilda Visnicky. He was the proprietor of Visnicky Landscaping. Michael was in the Army Reserve and very patriotic. He loved his hometown of Trumbull and enjoyed watching old movies and cheering the UConn women’s basketball team on to victory, along with Notre Dame football. He was extremely caring and gave of his time freely to many individuals. Michael loved animals, especially his cats, Dixie and Maddie. He is survived by his loving sister, Irene C. Visnicky, of Bridgeport, Connecticut; his cherished goddaughter, Sandra Hirth of Charlotte, North Carolina; his longtime friend, Joe Yurcho; and many cousins and friends.

I met Mike Santoro and Pat Branch Aug. 24 for golf at Mike’s Independence Course in Midlothian. We saw Mike Gompf ’68 and enjoyed a beautiful day with good golf, as well. I tried to play golf with Mike Santoro and Bob Flowers Sept. 9 to honor our Matriculation Day. The weather did not cooperate, as we were challenged by heavy rain and thunderstorms.

VMI’s first football game started and ended well. With a 21-point lead early in the game, VMI beat Davidson in Lexington. Attending from our class were Bob Waldo, Randy Crocker, Ron Wall, Chuck Becker, Dave Prugh, Bruce Gregory, Bunny Paulette, John Sebrell, and Tom Catlett. Thanks to Bob and Bruce for the BR sighting info.

Class treasurer Jim Chapman and I discussed the funds we maintain for memorial gifts to VMI. We have intentionally reserved funds from reunions to allow us to honor every BR at his death.

At this time, we have a little extra and wanted to

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Class Notes ensure we were managing the fund properly. We said he carried his wife and grandson, Davis, to that day. The Keydets did not win the game in pay a small amount each year to maintain the Jack the game and enjoyed talking with Larry Um- Charleston but came back the next week to win at Kennedy Award to a deserving Air Force ROTC berger ’65, George Buzzard ’68, and Mike Bag- home in overtime.

The next game was at Mercer University in Magraduate and have projected what we will need nulo ’67 before the game and with John Falzone to continue paying that bill. We decided to add ’68 at halftime. On Oct. 9, Bob Alexander and I con, Georgia. Bruce Noel of Atlanta joined Dr. $1,000 each to the two Class of 1969 funds with left Yorktown early in the dark to be in Lexington Tom Jones at the game and had a ball. Just about the Foundation and the Keydet Club and promptfor the game against University of Tennessee- everything VMI did was right, and they won the ly did so.

Chattanooga. Seen were Bruce Gregory with game with no trouble. Tom said afterward, “We On Sept. 14, senior VMI alumni gathered to eat his son, Harrison; Bob and Lush Heely; Larry had so much fun. Thirty VMI people sat together, including great parents and alumni lunch together in Williamsburg. from Florida and Carolinas.” Then Drew Brantley, Bob Flowers, it was back to Lexington for the WIP Priest, and Walt Judd sat Keydets to face Samford Univertogether. Val Sledd ’68 of Poquosity Oct. 30. Again, Bob Alexanson and Dave Frantz ’65 of Ford’s der and I left early to get to the Colony, Williamsburg, joined us at post around 11:30. We picked up the table. all the remaining copies of Charlie In late September, there was a Bryan’s 50th Reunion book from great picture on Facebook of four Moody Hall and then headed to the BR wives celebrating 50 years stadium to prepare for the game. of marriage each: Nancy Catlett, We met Bob and Ruth Waldo for Ione Hardy, Peggy Mackey, and a picnic lunch at the Keydet Club Arlene Palmer. Tommy and Nancy area and then met John Zunka and Catlett were most recent additions Jim Snead ’72, John’s ride from to that august body.

Charlottesville, on the way into the In early October, I met with two representatives of the George C. Class of 1969: Attending the memorial service for BR Rudy Segaar in stadium. For the first time in my reMarshall Foundation and noted August are Glenn White, Bob Waldo, Spunky Butler, Thornton Newlon, membrance, we were greeted by a the close connection between that another reenactor, Tommy Hudson, Walt Judd, Tom Hickman, and other passerby with a phrase I have never reenactor friends. heard before in Lexington: “We organization and the VMI comhave a bunch of Hokies here today. munity. They share a campus and They came to see a winning footsome office space but maintain ball team.” And a winning team different interwoven goals. Both they did see. After a lousy first half are into leadership development and a sizable deficit, the Keydets and honoring VMI’s most illustricame to life and played winning ous graduate. Dr. Paul Levengood, football for the second half. With president, and Col. John Wranek 3:14 remaining in the game, VMI ’85, director of development, spent scored and took the lead. Great time at my house in good converdefense followed, and the Keydets sation. Paul once assumed the prevailed 46 to 45. Phew! John Isleadership mantle of the Virginia hon, Bruce Gregory, Bunny PauHistorical Society from Charlie lette, John Sebrell, Bob AlexanBryan when he retired and later Class of 1969: At lunch at the Lucky Oyster Seafood Grill in Virginia Beach der, Bob and Ruth Waldo, Knox worked with Mike Santoro at the Nov. 3 were (seated) WIP Priest, Bruce Gregory, John Ishon, Bob Heely, and Shirley Hubard, Walt Judd, Virginia War Memorial Founda(standing) Bunny Paulette, Gary Mackey, Drew Brantley, Webb Hatch, and John Zunka were all there tion. John was the VMI Alumni and Lee Barnes. taking in the amazing comeback.

Association liaison to the class agents for several years and served VMI well as Seekford; Bob Waldo; and John Sebrell. Al- That was fun!

On Oct. 20, the VMI Foundation announced a development officer. though Jimmy Long and Bunny Paulette were On Oct. 2, the Keydets traveled to Charleston not there in person, both kept up and talked or that two ’69 BRs would be honored at the Nov. 11 for the annual football game against El Cid. I texted regularly with guys there. Bunny (in Key Founders Day activities. Charlie Bryan and Bill was unable to go, but my sources told me Doug West) was represented by his son, Will, who kept “Bunny” Paulette were to be awarded the DistinMarks, Bobby Watts, John Sebrell, and Bunny getting calls every time someone scored. Jim was guished Service Award by the VMI Foundation at Paulette were there to cheer on the team. Doug fighting a case of vertigo and was unable to travel a convocation service. The two BRs would then

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Class Notes be front and center with the superintendent to “take” the parade as honored persons and graduates. It was to be a humbling experience, and one earned the hard way, for a pair of 1st Class privates. More later.

On Nov. 3, Webb Hatch and Drew Brantley offered the Tidewater ’69 BRs a unique opportunity: A chance to tour the Pungo Military Aviation Museum in Virginia Beach and then eat lunch together at the nearby Lucky Oyster Seafood Grill.

Gary Mackey posted photos of the gathering on Facebook. Attending were Gary Mackey, Bruce Gregory, Bunny Paulette, Drew Brantley, Lee Barnes, WIP Priest, Webb Hatch, and Bob Heely.

Back to football for a moment. The long ride to Johnson City, Tennessee, did not help the football team Nov. 6, as they fell behind 21-0 to East Tennessee State and had to come back in the second half. Our rally quit too soon, and VMI lost 27-20.

Sometimes the magic works for us, sometimes not. We endured another away game close loss Nov. 13. We spotted Furman 17 points and then went to work. We just missed on several occasions and ended a touchdown short, 37-31. VMI played great offense but needed a little more defensive help.

Paul Curs has written a book currently only on the Apple Books app (which is preloaded on all Apple devices). support.apple.com/books. The title is “Off Winchester.” It has 112 stories and 104 photos. The stories are short, averaging about two pages each. It is cheap at $4.99, and all proceeds go to military charity.

Nov. 11 dawned cool and sunny in Norfolk, Yorktown, Richmond, Wytheville, and Lexington as the Mackey, Heely, Judd, Santoro, Bryan, Paulette, Buckner, and Sebrell clans awoke for an exciting day. Some BRs traveled for more than one day (Tom and Karen Buckner from Memphis) and others just awoke at the location hosting all the excitement. While Tom Hickman gathered—via our Facebook site—a list of BRs wanting to eat a free lunch in the Crozet mess hall, others gathered at the downtown Tonic dining room for a quick meal. The honored guests and their families and close friends met for a small lunch in Moody Hall before all headed soon after 1 p.m. to Cameron Hall (the normal basketball facility) for VMI’s Founders Day convocation at 1:30. BRs from all over the commonwealth came to Lexington to be part of the special events.

With many friends of the Institute and cadets

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from the current Corps gathering in Cameron Hall, BRs and families of the honorees found seats down front. (Where Bunny and Charlie could quickly see us!) Tom Buckner, once a roommate of Charlie, and I sat near the Bryan and Paulette families and cheered on the speakers. Maj. Gen. Wins ’85 gave opening remarks and then offered the mic to Tom Zarges ’70, VMI Foundation president (fresh from his often-delayed 50th Reunion), who introduced the two honorees. Bunny and Charlie were the first recipients of the VMI Foundation Distinguished Service Award since 2015 and the first pair of BRs to be honored together since 1988.

Mr. Zarges and Maj. Gen. Wins presented Bunny his award after a short introduction by Mr. Zarges.

Bunny spoke next and kept the Corps and

Class of 1969: Beverly Judd with Jim Tate ’67.

others entertained with his comments. It was noted twice—to the delight of the Corps—that the two award recipients had graduated as 1st Class privates with less-than-stellar academic records. Bunny stressed the fact that service to VMI was a lifetime activity, and that graduation was just the first step. Bunny gave a lot of credit to Elmon T. Gray ’46 and Gil Minor ’63, two older grads who served as mentors to him. We know of them today as donors of the baseball stadium and locker facilities next door: GrayMinor Stadium and the accompanying Paulette Hall locker facilities.

Mr. Zarges and Maj. Gen. Wins then assisted Charlie to the podium and presented him his award. He then gave his presentation to the Corps and friends. He pursued the question of what is the “typical VMI type?” He made many references to his time in the barracks, his brother rats, his many contacts in life, and to his time working with the VMI Foundation. Charlie’s talks always bring in some history and a lot of humor. He did not disappoint this time.

The convocation ended with the singing of the “Spirit” and the “Doxology” and a lot of people feeling good about VMI and our class.

Everyone then migrated up the hill to the Parade Ground and a short wait for the parade to begin. Honored guests and families were feted in Preston Library while BRs and friends renewed friendships on the Parade Ground.

At 3:30, with the skies mostly clear and temps warm, the sounds of drums and bagpipes filled the air. The Corps, dressed in all gray uniforms, marched out, and the parade began. The superintendent stood at the ready at the reviewing stand

Class of 1969: Attending the Institute Society Dinner are Walter Judd, Bunny Paulette, Mike Santoro, Joe Lynch, Dave Prugh, Fred Downey, Marty Parks, Gary Braswell, Bruce Gregory, Robert Watts, Tom Buckner, John Ishon, Bob Heely, Bob Waldo, and Charlie Bryan.

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Class Notes with his flag bearer standing behind him fighting the breezes buffeting his flag. The Corps did its magnificent job again for the Old Corps visitors.

Later in the parade, when it was time for the pass in review, Bunny and Charlie joined Maj. Gen. Wins at the center of the reviewing area to “take the honors” of the Corps on parade. Soon after the last music died on the field, the wisps of rain arrived and scattered the remaining viewers.

Later, at 6 p.m., Institute Society members gathered at Marshall Hall (the formal name for the Center for Leadership and Ethics) for a cocktail party and dinner. Bunny and Charlie were welcomed again and sat near the front of the room. It is a standing joke among regular class attendees of this formal affair that our class will have to wait until 2039 or later for us to sit up front. Most of our class sat this year at tables in the big room but nearer the back than the front.

Meade King ’85, VMI Foundation chief operating officer, welcomed everyone and introduced the chaplain for the invocation. After dinner, Tom Zarges introduced Maj. Gen. Wins at his first Institute Society Dinner as superintendent. Maj. Gen. Wins kept his comments brief and showed a great film starring many scholarship cadets who stated their appreciation to Institute Society members for supporting them in their cadetships.

The Glee Club entertained us with several interesting arrangements and then completed their show with the “Spirit” and “Doxology.” Meade then officially closed the dinner and sent folks out into the damp but warmer evening.

Attending the convocation (C) and/or parade (P): Charlie and Cammy Bryan with son and daughter (with husband and two grandsons), Bunny and Carolyn Paulette with daughter and son (with wife), John and Jane Ishon, Bobby and Elizabeth Watts, Lou Sidney, Marty and Cathy Parks, Tom and Karen Buckner, Bob Waldo, V.J. and Margi Petrella, Bob and Lush Heely, Mike and Martha Santoro, Gary and Peggy Mackey (with dog Tilly), Bob Flowers (only C), John Sebrell, Walter Judd, WIP and Barbara Priest, Bruce and Sherry Gregory, Tom Hickman, Bob and Susan Alexander, Bob Sparks, Judge Val and Lorie Southall, John Dick, Gary and Nancy Braswell, Dave and Susan Prugh, Fred and Claudia Downey (only P), and Joe Lynch.

Attending the Institute Society Dinner: Charlie and Cammy Bryan, Bunny and Carolyn Paulette, Marty and Cathy Parks, John and Jane Ishon,

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Bobby and Elizabeth Watts, Tom and Karen Buckner, Bob Waldo, Bob and Lush Heely, Mike and Martha Santoro, Bruce and Sherry Gregory, John Sebrell, Walter Judd, Gary and Nancy Braswell, Dave and Susan Prugh, Fred and Claudia Downey, and Joe and Pat Lynch.

On Friday morning, Lexington was clear and breezy as a beautiful fall day. I went to the local bakery for breakfast and immediately saw Bobby and Elizabeth Watts sitting at the first table, usually reserved for the local, everyday customers.

Bobby had befriended the one man sitting at the table, a former Virginia Tech cadet who was busy recounting his years in encouraging VMI cadets.

After visiting with the Wattses, I returned to my room and checked out of the hotel. My wife and I headed next to the post to deliver copies of our 50th Reunion book to the VMI Museum bookstore/gift shop. As we arrived, we noted a car in front of us with the license “VMIVOL.” That’s Charlie and Cammy! They were there just in time to see me deliver 65 copies of his book and chat with the gift shop staff. While I was in the museum, Cammy and my wife greeted Dave and Susan Prugh as they cruised by. At 11:15, I left town and headed back to Tidewater, happy and proud of our class and its great BRs. As I mentioned early on, this period was full of ups and downs. I heard of several BRs fighting various maladies and saw several wives also losing ground to health issues. I think it was noteworthy that two BRs—Bob Alexander and Pat Branch—lost moms recently just weeks before their 100th birthdays. We applaud the moms’ long lives and the care shared by those BRs with their parents through their long lives. Maybe some of us have that future ahead of us.

Time to thank all of you who made donations to our class scholarships this period and to ask all of you to remember the timing of your gifts can make a difference to the various agencies you support. Both the Keydet Club and Foundation offer wonderful gatherings for leadership level givers and offer invitations to donors before the end of June each year. Make your gifts at the right times and join a bunch of us next year at the fun dinners and parties during the summer and fall.

You will be doubly blessed with good feelings of support for cadets and for yourselves. Talk to me about what and when to get the most out of each gift.

Yours in the Spirit, Walt

1970

Steve Talley

Well, Hallelujah, and pass the potatoes. Thanks to the dedicated work of our Reunion Committee, Herb Braun, Jud Collier, Bob Copty, Steve Craddock, Peel Dillard, Ted Dervin, Bill Gearhart, Reed Heddleston, Bill Huffman, David Miller, Paul Munch, Bill O’Connor, Ned Perrow, Charles Perry, Waite Rawls, Lew Reynolds, Bill Richardson, Carl Strock, and Gordon Williams, our reunion went marvelously. Ninety-four brother rat geezers, 74 spouses and friends and three widows—Nancy Cabaniss-Mastin, Elizabeth Grasty, and June Bailey—were there. Hopefully, COVID-19 will slink off and not be a factor in executing the next reunion. In the meantime, mini reunions at VMI sporting events and other happenings are clever ways to get together. Ralph Costen, 1st Class private, “mayor,” and mover and shaker, joined forces with our leader, first captain Tom Zarges, to lead the reunion effort and pull off a perfect weekend. A dynamic duo, indeed. Thank you, Tom and Ralph.

I include in these notes a sample of the 152 photos John “Smack” McLemore took at the reunion and photos that Steve “The Kid” Craddock organized, captioned, and entered into the “Class of 1970 – 50th Reunion” website. The Review staff only allows inclusion of 10 photos, but you can see all the photos at vmi70.com. Visiting this website is the next best thing to actually having been at the reunion.

A highlight of the weekend was a brilliant portrayal of Lt. Col. John Thomas Lewis Preston, VMI founder, by Dick Cheatham, expert storyteller, teacher, gifted dramatist, and accomplished historian. In front of a captivated audience, Brother Rat Cheatham, dressed in period garb, spoke as Preston about VMI’s first 50 years. He explained Preston’s vision for VMI and his remarkable persistence in bringing the Institute into existence.

Brother rats were duly impressed. Many remembered memorizing the inscription on the parapet but agreed that we did not really know details of the founding story. In a short one-and-a-halfhours, Brother Rat Cheatham told us that story— an important one, indeed.

VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1970: Phillip Anderson, Edwin Andrews, Harold Bare, William Bott, Herbert Braun, Robert Brown, Harvey Butler, Thomas Campbell, Daniel Campbell, Robert Candido, Michael Carruth, James Chandler, Richard Cheatham, Richard Clary, Frank Cleaton, Judson Collier, Thomas Cooke, Robert Copty, Ralph Costen, Steven Craddock, Donald Crawford, Clifford Davenport, Charles Davis, Howard DeWolf, Paul Dickinson, Robert Dillard, Thomas Ferguson, John Fischer, John Flemming, Robert Forrest, George Gearhart, James Gillespie, Floyd Ginn, Joseph Girlando, Robert Gregory, Jodie Grimes, Robert Grossman, Edward Haley, Joshua Hanks, Roy Heddleston, William Huffman, Frank Humphrey, Michael Iwanik, John Jordan, David Keller, Donald Kirchner, Alfred Kirk, Raymond Lanier, Carlyle Lash, David Lawrence, Thomas Love, John Ludt, Jack Mace, Burt MacKenzie, James Marshall, Richard Marshall, James Mawyer, John McLemore, Donald McQueen, David Miller, Thomas Morehouse, Paul Munch, William Murchison, David Nuckols, William O’Connor, Bruce Pates, Edgar Perrow, David Price, William Purcell, Sol Rawls, Claude Reynolds, William Richardson, William Scherer, Kent Schlussel, David Schmidt, Donald Seay, John Shackelford, John Sheedy, Harland Sisler, Edwin Snead, George Snead, Robert Spore, Linwood Steverson, Carl Strock, Frank Sutton, Stephen Talley, Tazewell Taylor, Joseph Tenhet, David Trenholm, Charles Walker, Richard Walker, Joseph Way, Gary Weishaar, Gordon Williams, William Williams, Charles Wills, and Thomas Zarges.

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Class Notes Stix Chandler suggested that every incoming VMI class should see Dick’s portrayal. Other brother rats agreed, including me. Dick said to me recently, “I can’t think of a better way to die than prancing about a stage, dressed as J.T.L. Preston, and telling people about the vision he had for VMI. If I dropped dead doing that, it would be fine.” I replied, “Well, then you must agree to live to be at least 120 years old,” a proposition to which Dick heartily agreed. Stay tuned for more information on the very real possibility that Brother Rat Cheatham might just get his chance at this.

The parade on Saturday was fabulous. Not too shabby for only one practice session the day before. Judson Collier led the class in a hearty Old Yell. The Corps lined the stoops and joined in the fun. Maj. Gen. Cedric Wins ’85, our new superintendent, VMI’s tallest, stood proud in his full-dress Army uniform—a magnificent figure, indeed.

Tom Love did a wonderful job with a memorial for our departed brother rats: George Bach, John Bailey, Ted Bolton, Cliff Brooks, Richard Cabaniss, Terrence Chewning, Doug Cisler, Richard Corbett, Ben Dick, Jim Dischinger, Mike Gordon, Warren Grasty, Jeff Guild, Luther Holloman, Ed Holmes, Walt Ivkovich, Randy Jones, John Kern, Chuck Marks, Kerry Newberry, Michael Palmer, Russ Parsons, Mickey Payne, Phil Ramsey, Bob Randall, Scott Strong, John Tice, Ed Trinkle, Joe Vojtecky, Gerry Waterman, John Waters, Bill Webber, and Skip Whitenack.

We all knew these guys. They are us.

The party at Big Spring Farm Friday evening was a rousing success. Tasty food and drink and camaraderie. We capped off the weekend with a grand formal dinner in Marshall Hall. Drinks first, of course. Maj. Gen. Wins made inspiring remarks, and the VMI Commanders Jazz Band finished with a rendition of Ray Charles’ “America the Beautiful.” And beautiful it is.

For a place that never changes, VMI sure changes. Gen. Binford Peay ’62, our previous superintendent, made the physical VMI praiseworthy. Under the direction of Col. Keith Jarvis ’82, director of construction, the new Aquatic Center and other new construction and renovations are underway and on schedule. Of particular note is the extensive renovation and added new construction to Scott Shipp Hall, a place where I used to take naps.

Gen. Peay also presided over a very much-improved national academic standing. For you who have not been back to the Institute for a while, go. It is really great to experience the changing

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and unchanging nature of the Institute and visit with VMI’s young future leaders and see how they comport themselves with dignity and grace. VMI is here to stay. I am sure of it.

In the last week of September 2021, Emily and I visited with Liz Grasty and her sister, Judith, in Southampton, Massachusetts. Liz and Judith, along with sisters Kate and Louisa and brother Bruce, grew up in a home there built in 1850 on the foundation of a house built much earlier, where her great-grandfather was born. Eight generations of Millers lived in these two houses, and they trace their ancestry 13 generations back to the Mayflower. Judith lives in the home place now, which she has adorned with historic pictures of long-gone family members, a collage that tells a remarkable story of life in this sleepy little hamlet. When we arrived, a platoon of guard geese greeted us and were not inclined to give leave. They loudly trumpeted our arrival. Damned if I was going to get out and protest. After intense scrutiny and interrogation, the goose detail let us pass unharmed.

We passed by Kate’s house, her apple orchard and cidery, the dog kennel and grooming service, and the gardens, and finally arrived at the home place where Liz and Judith cordially greeted us. After a delightful family history lesson and lunch, we went to the Southampton Center Cemetery to visit Warren’s grave and that of Michael, Judith’s husband.

Liz has spread a part of Warren’s ashes around his marker. Knowing Warren to be a traveling man, she is spreading the rest in other places to her and Warren’s liking. Could there be a more beautiful sentiment? I like to think Warren’s guitar-picking hand is in this cemetery. The ladies tidied up the graves and spoke of times they come and talk to their departed spouses. They spoke with pride and joy about them. It was a grand and happy time. It made my heart soar like a hawk. As we left, Liz exclaimed, “Wait a minute, we can’t leave until we give a hearty wolf howl for Warren.” So howl we did, my wife, Emily, and me, along with Liz and Judith. It was a grand thing. We howled for Warren and, at no extra charge, for all our departed brother rats and spouses.

Speaking of Warren Grasty, I heard from Dave Price, who told a poignant story about a conversation he had with his dear friend in his final days, a friend he has known since the eighth grade. On this occasion, they were discussing the brother rat spirit, and Dave gave his perspective. He told his dying brother rat that “the spirit transcends time. It strengthens as we age. It is not distance dependent.

It is very hard to explain to those who have not experienced it. But it exists, and it is special! Those who might want to tear down the Institute have no idea what VMI instills, or they have lost sight of the intangibles they once knew if they were there.

The brother rat spirit lives on with you and all the members of the Class of 1970.” That is the brother rat spirit. That is VMI. Paul Dickenson reported that he had rotator cuff surgery after the reunion and started physical therapy Nov. 9. He says he is making satisfactory progress and is looking forward to playing golf by February. Beware, GOMBACS. Paul and Judy recently visited their daughter, Jane, who had the temerity to flee Cincinnati and go on vacation, leaving Paul and Judy to babysit for Jane’s four children, who range in age from nine-and-a-half (twins) to 13. I bet swinging those kids around all day is pretty good therapy for that rotator cuff.

Big Red has been slowing down opponents on the gridiron—6-4 ain’t bad. One more game Nov. 20, after I submit these notes. Big Red has played valiantly this year and has never given up. Undefeated at home this year so far.

Now up to bat is Tony (Munk) Rolfe. I last spoke to Tony around graduation. I noted that brother rats were buying muscle and sport cars.

But Tony? Well, he was looking for a truck to haul a trailer around that would hold whatever race car he happened to own. Munk brought his passion for racing, auto mechanics, and athletics to VMI in 1966 and never gave any of that up. He started teaching and coaching in high school in Richmond in 1971 and moved to Cohasset, Massachusetts, where he continued to teach and coach until he retired in 2006, when he promptly moved to Blue Hill, Maine (near Bar Harbor), built a house and barn, and started raising draft horses. He told me he missed school, although his VMI roomies report he was never too overly concerned with academics. So Munk, the race car driver, went back to teaching and is still teaching today and, coincidentally, is the oldest person in the building. And, of course, he is still racing. He said to me, “I am still racing cars (and driving trucks). Life is pretty damn good!” In fact, he recently competed in a race in which he was the oldest contestant. Once, he hit a deer doing 100 mph. Tony was doing 100 mph, not the deer.

Race officials never found the deer. Tony was OK, but the car? Keep driving and racing, Tony.

The Maine Division of Motor Vehicles does not have the [guts] to take your license away.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 1.

2.

4.

3.

5.

7.

6.

8.

Class of 1970 1. Dick Cheatham offering his portrayal of J.T.L. Preston in Gillis Theater in Marshall Hall Friday, Sept. 3, 2021, to brother rats, spouses, and other invited guests.

2. Jud Collier in Old Barracks leading the troops in an Old Yell for the Class of 1970. The entire Corps of Cadets was there, along with Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, superintendent, Sept. 4, 2021.

game between Big Red and the Davidson Wildcats.

5. Peel Dillard, Carl Strock, J.C. Hanks, Bill Bott, and Taz Taylor at the Best Western hospitality room during the 50th Reunion.

6. Roy Heddleston, Gary Weishaar, and Steve Craddock at the Best Western Hospitality Room Sept. 2, 2021 during the 50th Reunion.

3. Bill Gearhart and Tommy Cook at the honored class dinner in the Center for Leadership and Ethics.

7. A toast of vintage port for our departed brother rats, John Bailey and Warren Grasty, at reunion headquarters Sept. 3, 2021.

4. Tom Zarges and Ralph Costen present Wins with a check from the Class of 1970 exceeding the $13 million goal at halftime of the

8. Nancy and Gray Chandler at the Best Western hospitality room during the 50th Reunion Sept. 2, 2021.

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Class Notes Don Crawford checked in to say that he and much longer stay than overnight. These days, he these days. He tells me it keeps the mind more Lois visited with Marky Trinkle the weekend of spends time playing guitar, bass, mandolin, uke, active. Lordy, Neil, get a life, watch Jeopardy.

Oct. 22-24 in Roaring Gap, North Carolina. The banjo, and other string instruments, which is a Another activity Neil pursues involves Friday weather was perfect for Don and entourage to very admirable activity. But he reports that he afternoon get-togethers at a local watering hole with other VMI guys, mostly degenerates. Guys go wine tasting. After careful consideration of plays none particularly well, so maybe the oversome choices, the entourage settled on a case night stay really is an overnight stay. Woodford like Ralph Costen, Tom Cooke, Herb Braun, and Stuart Cottrell. Now that is more like it. of MD 20/20 Red at $8.95/bottle. Just kidding. can only go so far.

Judge Neil Steverson checked in. He retired Nothing like a couple of brews and guffawing Dave’s taste in wines has no doubt matured through the years. Don and Lois are spending two years ago but made himself subject to recall. with brother rats to keep the mind active.

Seventy-five-year-old Billy Thomas reported the winter in Costa Rica this year. After two I thought that is what happens when something weeks in a Spanish immersion school and liv- breaks down. He sits on the bench a few days a in. A vacation in Sicily is his lame excuse for not attending our reunion. He sent me a picture ing with a Costa Rican family, they will take to week. I am sure glad he gets to sit rather than their two rental homes, one on Lake Arenal and stand, a posture which, for us, is more difficult of him and his lovely bride, Carolyn, sitting in the best seats overlooking the Theater, a smaller home on the beach. Don graone of the very ancient Greek ruins, but ciously invited Emily and me to visit with not as ancient as Bill. Carolyn and Bill them this winter. Don also reports that live in Jupiter, Florida. I thought Jupiter he and Cameron Seay cheered the VMI was a planet. They return to the swamps soccer team on to victory in Harrisonburg of Virginia Beach periodically to visit his at Eastern Mennonite University Sept.

98-year-old mom. They have a daughter 28. On Oct. 2, they joined other VMI aland grandson in addition to two sons in ums and wives at the Heritage on Main their 40s and five grandsons in Florida. restaurant in Waynesboro to root for Big Bill plays golf often, he reports, poorly. I Red against The Citadel. Regrettably, that bet the GOMBACS approve his membergame did not turn out as well as hoped. ship application. Easy money.

On Saturday, Oct. 9, Don and Lois travNow for an excellent Steve Cradeled to the Institute to see the overtime dock story. Through the years, he and victory of our Keydets over UTC. They visited the ever-so-popular halftime tail- Class of 1970: Jim Mawyer, Mike Snead, Chuck Wills, Gray other brother rats, mostly a sub-group of gate of the most gracious Lew Reynolds Chandler, Gary Weishaar, Bruce Pates, Steve Craddock, the GOMBACS, have partied, traveled, and Charlie Walker offering a toast to departed brother and worked together. I did not know the and his wife, Judy. There, they met up rats John Bailey and Warren Grasty.

GOMBACS had reached that level of orwith Kent and Judy Schlussel, Bill Gearganization. Warren Grasty and Steve became hart, and Russ Marshall. While the guys chatclose in the last 15 years with intersecting roles ted about their latest retirement adventures, Lois at VMI—Warren as class agent and Steve servand the two Judys discussed the books they were ing on the board of governors. In his travels, and reading. Quite a contrast in intellectual power in between MD 20/20 binge drinking sessions, there between BRs and their wives. Well, duh? he acquired vintage bottles of 1970 Taylor Port I heard from Warren Wagner, who inand 1970 Graham’s Port and put them away for formed me that in Russia he was known as a special occasion. Warren and Steve proposed Валерий Иванович (Valerii Ivanovich). How to have their merry band of BRs open those predo you pronounce that? He and Kim, his Ring cious bottles and toast their lives together some Figure date to whom he has been married for time. Then life happened. COVID-19 caused a 52 years, are doing well, although he is comruckus, Warren got sick and went to heaven, and plaining about aches and pain, which is drivthen John Bailey joined Warren in heaven. ing Kim crazy. Warren, get on the gim list for So at our reunion, in the Best Western moPete’s sake. It worked for me. Who is that guy, tel, Steve got together with others and toasted Pete, anyway? Brother Rat Wagner reports that Warren Grasty and “John-Boy” Bailey. June he has had knee replacements, a heart bypass, Bailey and Liz Grasty were there, along with and shoulder replacement. Pretty soon, he will Gary Weishaar, Chuck Wills, Gray Chandler, be bionic. What then? He retired from the Army Class of 1970: Lee Moon, coach and athCharlie Walker, Jim Mawyer, Artie Pates, in 1992, and he and Kim are living in Gettysletic director, at his induction into the Herb Braun, and Mike Snead. Just to put a fine burg, Pennsylvania. He says brother rats are Athletic Hall of Fame at North Florida point on it, participants used engraved glasses welcome for overnight stays, steaks on the grill, University Nov. 6, 2021.

Steve had made special for the occasion. This and Woodford Reserve, which translates into a

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes magnificent entourage gave a toast to their dear departed friends. If that doesn’t bring tears to your eyes, you need serious psychotherapy.

Elaine and Russ Marshall checked in to report that he and she recently enjoyed a Rocky Mountaineer train trip in September from Denver to Moab, Utah, and a follow-on motor coach tour through several national parks to Las Vegas. Russ and Elaine were pleasantly surprised to have discover that Terry Fowler ’67 and his wife, Brenda, were on board. Now for a gumshoe report. Dave Trenholm wrote to me to report that he and Dave Price were looking up old classmates in the Bomb and Register of Former Cadets and discovered that the 1989 and 1995 registers had listed Brother Rat Henry B. Parish as being deceased, having died in October 1978. They went on to discover that the 2005 registry listed him as not deceased. Any rational person must, of course, conclude that Henry has risen. I put on my Columbo hat and did a search for him and, lo and behold, found a Henry B. Parish living in Dallas, Texas. Not being a cheapskate, I paid my $8.95 for a complete record, in which I found every real estate transaction, place of residence, phone number, and run-in with the law that Henry B. Parish had ever had, which included a bunch of speeding tickets. So I started making calls, and on number 12, our Henry B. Parish answered.

And, it turns out, he is far from dead. He left VMI after two years to pursue a girl. Yes, that’s right.

To pursue a girl. He joined the corps of cadets at the University of Texas, took a commission from there, and entered the United States Air Force. He ended up flying B52s and C130s. Then he went to law school just to show off. He lives with his second wife in Dallas. Tragically, his first wife passed on. He is definitely not dead. Very much alive, and lively. I told him about the 1989 and 1995 registers which list him as deceased. He was astonished to find out that he was dead. He took a moment to check his pulse to make sure.

Various judges dropped all those speeding tickets when Henry explained that flying B52s and C130s had altered his concept of speed and thus he could not be responsible for driving a bit too fast. They, of course, saw the logic in that. Henry reads the quarterly Review religiously and wants to return to VMI to visit. His wife has never been to Virginia and thus VMI. Boy, is she in for a surprise. Come home, Henry.

Bob Costigan checked in. He and Judy are doing fine in Naperville, Illinois, just 30 miles west

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of Chicago. They live close by their daughter, Jennifer, and her three children. He reports that the winters are terrible but being close to their children makes every day seem like summer. He also says that people in Illinois are obsessed with the Big Twelve athletic conference. But good neighbors, lovely people all, make him and Judy feel as if they were born up there.

Phil Anderson reported in at the last minute.

Not like a member of the regimental staff. Drop down and give me 10. He and Carolyn had just returned from Greenville, South Carolina, where, unfortunately, VMI lost a hard-fought football game to Furman. Markey Trinkle, Ed Trinkle’s widow, was there along with Phil’s sister-in-law, Ann, and her husband, John Pinner ’73. After the game, the entourage enjoyed the nightlife in Greenville and reminisced about Ed. That’s what I am talking about. The VMI brother rat spirit.

And just now, Mat Curtis weighed in, another bio major, the best kind. His wife, Lynne, otherwise known as the Admiral, and his faithful doggie, Bailey the Dalmatian, are reporting in from Bahia De Kino, Sonora, in Mexico on the Sea of Cortez. Obviously, Mat knows who is in charge.

A dog and a woman. I know that movie. Mat and Lynne live in Mexico for eight to nine months of the year and then the rest in Amado, Arizona.

They fish a lot and love the beauty and quiet where they are. I want to be Mat. Well, now. Here is something to celebrate. I have received word that Saturday evening, Nov. 6, the University of North Florida recently inducted Lee Moon into the school’s athletic Hall of Fame. Lee served as the UNF athletic director from 2009-21. During his tenure, the UNF Ospreys captured 46 ASUN athletic conference championships and claimed eight River City Rumble titles in yearly competition with crosstown rival Jacksonville University. The school also won four ASUN men’s All-Sports Championships and made 85 NCAA championship appearances for teams and individuals. And that ain’t all. The school also garnered 44 ASUN Players of the Year awards, 34 Freshman of the Year awards, 35 ASUN Coaches of the Year awards, 27 ASUN Scholar Athletes of the Year awards, 901 All-ASUN selections, 157 ASUN All-Freshmen awards, and 187 ASUN All-Academic awards. The NFU Athletic Department had 20 consecutive semesters with cumulative GPAs of 3.0 or higher and eight semesters with all 19 varsity teams boasting cumulative 3.0 GPAs. I am sure we can all agree that it would be

a hard call to associate high GPAs with Coach Moon.

While at UNF, Lee oversaw additions of women’s golf and beach volleyball as varsity sports.

I bet he really went for the beach volleyball gig because I remember while he lived in Staunton in 1972 and coached at the Staunton Military Academy, he spent quite a bit of time at Mary Baldwin College, and that activity was not about academics.

In addition to his new hall of fame status, the National Association of Collegiate Directors of Athletics Division I-AAA named him Athletic Director of the Year. There is more to say about Lee, and I will share that later. But for now, join me in a hearty Old Yell for our Brother Rat Lee (Coach) Moon. Rah Virginia Mil. Rah, rah, rah.

Rah, rah VMI. Moon, Moon, Moon. Not to be confused with dropping one’s drawers and exposing the moon, to which the Lee Moon I know would not object.

Marcus Gold sent me a note. He and his wife, Carol, live in Marion, North Carolina, where he is a pastor. His first wife, Nelda, passed away from cancer in 1992. Through the years, he and Carol have had their share of health problems.

Carol has dealt with chronic pain from a life with severe scoliosis and other maladies. In the Air Force, Marcus spent some time as a B-52 navigator. On one occasion, a malfunction of the cabin pressurization system caused a “bends” like syndrome that grounded him for a while. That led to an end of active duty in 1976. A fall in 1998 damaged his neck and resulted in partial paralysis in a hand. A bout of diverticulitis in 2005 caused his large bowel to burst. That took four surgeries to repair. Then there was prostate cancer and 45 radiation treatments. Fortunately, he is now in remission. I suspect Marc could use a little love from brother rats now.

Before I wrote this set of notes, I offered the class an apology because I misread the due date to get the draft to the Review staff. A due date that came much sooner than I was prepared for. Thus, I entered into that VMI frame of mind we all remember from our rat year. Brother rats felt my pain and responded with updates and encouragement. Brother Rat Phil Bryant took a different approach. He wrote back, “Drop down and give me 10. No, wait, must adjust for age. Drop down and give me one. No, wait, that’s not right either. Drop down and get up without assistance!”

That I can do—just barely.

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Class Notes Virginia, and was active in many aspects of life at VMI where he accumulated several nicknames.

He was a rugby player, two-time boxing champion, and chairman of the RDC. He was commissioned in the Marine Corps and was a Vietnam veteran. After his military service, Steve earned a Master of Business Administration degree at the Darden Business School (UVA) and later a law degree from George Mason University. Steve was quite active in VMI activities and served as a regional director for the VMI Alumni Association and later was president of the VMI Alumni Association from 1996-98. He was a major advocate for single-sex education during the time that VMI was facing that legal battle. He ultimately became of counsel to the law firm of Cottrell, Fletcher & Cottrell before retiring in 2020 due to health concerns. A visitation for Steve was held Sept. 9, 2021, in Alexandria. Several members Jim Kelly of ’71 were in attendance, and a good deal of time was spent telling legendary “Fogie” stories.

More information can be found in this issue of the Alumni Review.

Several of our BRs got back into traveling during this past spring and summer. I got a card These notes will cover the period between Aug. from Dan and Lori Czupryna describing an out15, 2021, and Nov. 15, 2021. ing with Bill and Sara Gentry down to Durham, A belated happy new year to everyone. Kathryn North Carolina, to celebrate the 50th anniversary and I hope you had a good holiday season and of our graduation and the 50th wedding anniverthat 2022 will be great year for all of us. sary for the Gentrys. While there, they spotted an Fall arrived rather suddenly out here in SouthClass of 1971: Lanny and T.S. Gault at ad for the Swinging Medallions who were schedwest Virginia. Through Halloween, we were Omaha Beach. uled to play at Shelton Vineyard in August. The relatively warm and pleasant, but there has been foursome attended the concert, which about a 60-degree swing since then, featured a new generation of band and we are waking up to the mid-20s members. Dan described the show as in the mornings. Halloween was celebeing “fantastic.” He and Lori were brated in pre-COVID-19 fashion, and able to visit with the original drumwe had quite a few goblins at the door. mer of the band, and they inquired The increase in numbers also results if he had ever been to Lexington. He in much less leftover candy, which I replied, “VMI, oh boy, those kids suppose is a good thing for someone at Vandy thought they were a party who really doesn’t need to be eatschool, but they had nothing on the ing leftover candy. Thanksgiving is group from VMI.” Our legend lives just a couple of weeks away, and it is on! great to hear about family gatherings Ned and Anne Mikula traveled that are going to be taking place once to Ithaca, New York, for the Cornell again. I hope each of you were able to football game with VMI. Anne has enjoy the holidays this year. relatives in that area who had arSadly, since my last set of notes, we ranged a trip to Niagara Falls before have lost two brother rats. Tim Brady the Keydets’ road win. The Ellingdied in March 2021 following a short Class of 1971: Dave and Donna Honeywell, Buddy and Carol Bryan, tons and Seficks, along with Jim illness, and Steve Fogleman died in and Zeke and Jane Ellington at the Institute Society Dinner, Nov. 11, Neale and friend Becky, were also in August 2021 after an extended illness. 2021. Photo by Micalyn Miller, VMI Alumni Agencies. attendance at the game.

The VMI Class of 1971 extends its That’s all the news I have, but keep those cards and letters coming; otherwise, I will just make something up. And it will not be pretty.

Finally, one last thanks to Ralph Costen and Tom Zarges for a great reunion weekend.

And my sincerest thanks to John McLemore (Smack), or is that SmackLemore, for serving as interim class agent and mentoring me. Then there is Steve Craddock, who created the perfect class website—one that tells a story for the times. And how about George Ritko for enthusiastically offering to continue to send out birthday notices to BRs? So if you don’t get a birthday card, don’t come complaining to me.

In the Spirit, Steve Talley

sincere condolences to both families.

Tim Brady matriculated from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and remained with us through the first semester of our rat year and participated in rat football as a non-scholarship player. After VMI, he went to Villanova and graduated from there in 1971. Tim had an extensive career at Allegheny Steel Distributors. He was an avid outdoorsman with a love of hunting and fishing. Tim is survived by his wife, Lynn; two sons; and a daughter, along with six grandchildren, three sisters, and a brother.

Steve Fogleman matriculated from Alexandria,

1971

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Lanny and T.S. Gault went on a Viking River Cruise in August, traveling between Paris and Normandy (with stops along the way). They “loved” Paris, but according to Lanny, the visit to Normandy was the highlight of the trip. They attended a wreath-laying ceremony followed by the national anthem and taps. “Not a dry eye in the place,” according to Lanny. The tour was a “stark reminder” of the debt we owe to the men who made the ultimate sacrifice on D-Day. I received a photo of T.S. and Lanny overlooking Omaha Beach.

John and Debby Caufield have been on a mission to visit as many of our national parks as possible with what John termed “a road trip circumnavigation” of the United States. Over the years, they have visited 52 out of the 63 parks. This year, they visited six parks and had planned to stop in Houston to visit Jim Neikirk.

Unfortunately, John developed a case of pneumonia and will have visit Houston the next time around.

Following a couple of years without a beach trip, Kathryn and I traveled to the Outer Banks during the last week of September. Over the years, we have been fortunate to have traveled and/or stayed over the entire length of the OBX. We had perfect beach weather and not a drop of rainfall. As I am writing these notes, the OBX is getting pounded with wind and high surf. We were lucky with our choice of weeks.

On Nov. 4, I celebrated my 73rd birthday. I sometimes get cards, emails, or a Facebook notice from many of you. This year turned out to be quite different, in that I began getting cards in the mail in late October and continued to receive cards into the week after Nov. 4. Altogether, I got about 50 cards and numerous online greetings. I greatly appreciate the good wishes and kind words. Many made note of the number of cards that your class agent sends out to BRs in a year’s time and inquired about how many could be sent out in over 20 years. I sometimes miss the date, or a card may come back due to an address change, so I would have to subtract those, but by averaging about 500 per year, you can do the math. To me, it is important that every brother rat in ’71 knows they are not forgotten and that we all share in the bond. Thanks to all of you for your support during our years together.

The Big Red football team has carried momentum from last spring into this season. As of this writing, we are 6-4 on the season with

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one game left to play. There are still hopes for an at-large playoff bid in the FCS. VMI has had good attendance at games this year, and at home, they are currently 4-0. The Class of ’71 has been well represented at home and on the road. Football “regulars” include Gault, Acuff, Mikula, Bryan, Kirby, Lockridge, Strickler, Ellington, Coleman, and Kelly. Three of the four Kelly brothers were together for the home opener against Davidson. A picture is included in these notes featuring Jim ’71, Rick (Davidson ’79), and Mike ’73. Rick is the youngest of the brothers and played football for Davidson.

Steve ’77 was on the gim working on a new knee. Also shown in this edition are three brother rats at The Citadel game in Charleston, South Carolina: Davis, Mikula, and Gault. I am sure that several others attended one game or another for whom I did not receive a note or confirmed “sighting.”

Our basketball team is back in action as of early November with a home opener against Carlow.

For some time, ’71 has held a basketball “mini” when there was a home Saturday game

Class of 1971: Al Davis, Ned Mikula, and Lanny Gault at the VMI versus The Citadel football game in fall 2021.

Class of 1971: The Kelly brothers—Jim, Rick, and Mike ’73—at the Davidson game.

in February. We don’t have that opportunity this year in February, so we will see if something else can be worked out.

The annual Institute Society Dinner was held on Founders Day, Nov. 11, 2021. The Class of ’71 members in attendance were Buddy and Carol Bryan, Dave and Donna Honeywell, and Zeke and Jane Ellington.

The celebration of our 50th Reunion is slightly more than a month away by the time you receive these notes. Motel registration began in November 2021, and online registration for events was launched in early January 2022. The official dates are March 23-27, 2022.

You have received quite a bit of information over the last several months, but I will touch on the highlights for each day. Wednesday, March 23, there will be an early arrivals reception and cocktail hour (cash bar) at the Lexington Golf & Country Club, followed by dinner on your own. Thursday, March 24, reunion packets may be picked up in the VMI Alumni Agencies offices at Moody Hall. There will be golfing and a “sip and paint” activity. A catered barbeque will be held at the Wingate (indoors). Friday, March 24, there will be some activities that are being planned and coordinated by the Alumni Agencies. Times and places will be provided in advance. There no longer is a Friday parade, but the reception and dinner provided by the Alumni Agencies will be held that evening in the CLE. Saturday will be a full day with a memorial service, class picture, presentation of our reunion pledge, reunion parade, and Old Yells in barracks. Shuttle buses will begin leaving for the class dinner at Big Spring Farm at 4 p.m. The evening event will feature a catered meal, cash bar, and some musical entertainment. The event will be held from 4:30 until 9 p.m. There will be a hospitality room available during most of the weekend at the Wingate. Sunday morning will be time for breakfast and farewells and talk of the 55th. I hope that everyone who wants to have the “official” 1971 50th Reunion clothing has already ordered it from Lands’ End. If not, then you may be able to obtain some before the end of March. Again, the website to create an online account is business.landsend.com/store1971.

Stay healthy and be safe out there. I hope to see all of you that can possibly make the check formation in March.

God bless our Team and VMI, Jim

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Class Notes

1972

Larry Houseworth

Brother Rats and Attendant Throng, Greetings from post-election and fall-wrapped Richmond. These notes cover mid-August to Founders Day. The crisp air and shortened days are a pleasant respite from the literal and figurative heat, tension, and smoke of the past months.

By the time you read these, we’ll be through the holidays and a few short weeks from our 50th Reunion—wrapping up the prep and stepping up the anticipation. Our planning committees have done a magnificent job, and their hard work and diligence will do us proud!

Marie and I returned this afternoon from the Founders Day events in Lexington. As this was her first, I almost had her convinced that the gun salute was in honor of her birthday (Friday), but she didn’t buy it. We also had an opportunity to chat with the new commandant, Col. Adrian Bogart ’81, Corps Sgt. Maj. Tom Sowers (U.S. Marine Corps), and 1st Sgt. Jon Faff ’03 (U.S. Marine Corps) while catching a bit of rat training, guard mount (now done at 5 p.m.), and colors.

Marie marveled at the organization and intensity while I told them I was impressed with the amount of oversight provided by the commandant’s staff into activities that were left to the cadre and upperclassmen in our time. Col. Bogart and Sgt. Maj. Sowers acknowledged while saying that it wasn’t to usurp command and control but, rather, to ensure a consistency of performance and outcome. Very, very impressive.

It was great to catch up with so many BRs (and “near BRs” from the late ’60s-early ’70s). Two of our dykes, Bill “Bunny” Paulette ’69 and Charlie Bryan ’69, were honored for their lifetime support of VMI and joined Maj. Gen. Wins ’85, superintendent, to take the review during the parade.

Marie and I ran into Elise and Paul Gorski at the review parade and had a good, but too quick, visit. They live five minutes from school and stay in contact with our local contingent. Elise shared the picture of Paul leading Parents Weekend Mass in Memorial Hall. Life is good.

Sandy and Butch Winstead, Anne and Gale

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Sommers, Tom Williamson, Tom Moncure, and Marie and I made up the ’72 contingent at the Institute Society Dinner. We were joined by 1st Class Cadet Traeven Tann ’22 (December)— a very inspiring, confident young man with a bright future ahead of him. I urge you to take advantage of any opportunity to interact with these young men and women. I guarantee you’ll come away impressed and proud!

And this is my cue to segue into a last-minute pitch for the Class of ’72’s 50th Reunion gift campaign. You may not be aware that VMI’s tuition and fees have increased to the point that we trail only William and Mary for in-state costs and UVA and W&M for out-of-state costs. It’s a proven fact that excellence costs, and distinction costs more—oftentimes, much more. Were it not for financial assistance provided by VMI, a very high percentage of the outstanding current cadets would be unable to receive the benefit of the VMI experience. Our Class of 1972 Scholarship provides unrestricted, needs-based financial support that can make the difference for many well-deserving applicants. I ask that you consider participating generously, in any manner you see fit, to ensure ’72’s legacy in the future of VMI. OK, then, let’s get to the news.

Tom Moncure and George Kosovic offer these key reminders about the 50th Reunion,

April 21-24. “Registration: It’s entirely online this time. There’s no hard-copy, mail-in process.

Go to vmialumni.org/events/reunions/, scroll down to select our reunion section, and follow the screen prompts to handle member and guest registration, activity selection, souvenir choices, and payment. You can also link to the Institute’s current policy and practices regarding COVID-19 and seek help by phone from the VMI Alumni Agencies reunion team.

“Lodging: If you’ve been undecided about attending, our three group-rate blocks at Lexington hotels are likely to be booked up by now.

Visit lexingtonvirginia.com/directory/lodging to find local B&Bs, inns, and cabin options, as well as additional hotels.

“Attire: When you think about packing (yeah, right around shake-a-leg!), remember that Friday evening is a sit-down, one-fork-per-course dinner honoring our class with Maj. Gen. Wins in attendance, and Saturday evening is a casual, graze-the-food-stations event at a picturesque rural venue with landscaped grounds irresistible for strolling. We hope for warm sunshine and fair skies but, as you’ll recall, April weather in the valley can be fickle. Plan accordingly.

“Swag: Can’t attend but still want to feel part of the event? There’s a path for you, too, in the online registration process. You can order the standard souvenir pack plus any of the optional

Class of 1972: Tom Moncure, Jerry Higgins, Johnny Sayers, Henry Knick, John Martin, Lindley Vaughn, Chip Woodall, Larry Houseworth, and Chris Tompkins at Bob Gore’s celebration of life.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes items. The Alumni Agencies reunion team will having to drive to Lexington to see the games. me of the ones we had at VMI), but it was fun Margaret and I went to Texas back in June to see once. We’re heading to Mexico for a week after ship your order ASAP after the reunion.

“Get it done: ‘72 at 50’ will be about two months my eldest daughter and her family. We drove to Thanksgiving and then will be home for Christmas and the new year. away when this issue hits your mailbox. If you Corpus Christi the week of July 4 and had a great “We haven’t seen too many BRs lately, but I did haven’t already registered, please do it today! The time at the beach. After that, we headed to Wichita deadline is fast approaching, and we look forward Falls for two days to research my great-grandfa- run into Ken Wester at Costco. He was prepping ther who helped found the first hospital in the city to head to his other home in the Outer Banks. Not to seeing you in Lexington!

“Questions? Contact our reunion coordinator, back in the late 1800s. Then we took a side trip too much other news, and having missed our 45th, we’re really looking forward to seeing Corri Sensabaugh, at csensabaugh@ everyone at our 50th in April.” Us too, vmiaa.org or (800) 444-1839.” Good BR—thanks! reminders. Thanks, BRs. Drew Turner is clearly loving reBob Gore’s celebration of life was tirement. “I finally retired at the end of beautiful and well-attended. Sharan August following 18 years as a finanand the girls organized the service and cial adviser. I’ve been in a transition the reception with a host of speakers, plan for the past two years. My son, photo montages, mementoes, and Andrew, took over my practice and memories. Family, friends, neighbors, has continued to grow the business. fellow cyclists, business associates, Laurie and I took delivery of a 25-foot and BRs offered tributes, stories, and Winnebago Navion RV in April 2020. smiles. Jerry Higgins spoke of Bob’s We have traveled more than 25,000 industry-recognized accomplishmiles since. It is great to get out into ments, and the ’72 contingent includnature and away from masks and the ed Debra and Lindley Vaughn, Sally news. We were blessed to travel to and Tom Moncure, Joan and John Sayers, Joe Knick, John Martin, Class of 1972: Drew and Laurie Turner and their retirement home more than 20 countries while I was working, and as we travel around the Chip Woodall, Chris Tompkins, and away from home.

U.S., I’m pleased to say that we live Bob Stransky. Sharan wanted me to in the most beautiful of all. On a relet you all know how much the class’ cent 38-day jaunt out West, we did support has meant to her and family. not meet a single jerk. RVing will Jim Pagones provided news of introduce you to some of the nicest their granddaughter: “Joan and I were people you can imagine. We are lookblessed for the first time (as septuaing forward to returning to Lexington genarians, no less) to experience the for our 50th next year.” Looks like joy of grandparenthood with the birth you may have your accommodations of Madison Stacey Kammerer to our all squared away, BR. daughter, Julia, and son-in-law, Sean, Buzz Chacey says he’s “doin’ Oct. 19, 2020. Such a happy child!”

OK—keeping up with my training He also sent along a picture of “Norm and still working at Savannah River and Joy Worrell, Kurt and Cathy site on Tritium small projects at least Renz, Joan and I at The Library in till the end of the year.” No sign of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, enjoyslowing down here. ing a wonderful time of fellowship and Class of 1972: The Renzes, Worrells, and Pagones at The Library at Phil Wilkerson sent a quick note victuals consumption together.” Good Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. after reading the Bacon’s Rebellion times; thanks, BR. piece. “Thanks, Larry! Great info; it is one thing Barry Bartley shared this: “All is well in North- to Branson, Missouri, which was interesting, but I ern Virginia. We are now in the full grasp of fall as don’t believe we’ll go back. In September, we met to think you are the best. It is another to have the facts to support it.” Thanks, BR. The truth doesn’t I watch the leaves fall and know that means after- up with Ed and Cindy Murphy in Cumberland, take a lot of work; it speaks for itself. noons policing them up for SMI. On a good note, Maryland, and took the Western Maryland RailBob Ward summed up the thoughts of many of however, due to cutting the cable and switching to road Mystery Train Ride. It was a few hours of us in his congratulations to Vern Beitzel. “Vern, Hulu + Live TV and ESPN+, we’ve been able to good food and an incredibly funny murder mysyour influence on the Institute has been immense. watch VMI football on TV. Great games, except tery performed on the train. Among the four of us, The ability to recruit a high-caliber student body for The Citadel and Kent State, and the broad- my wife was the only one to guess the murderer. makes or breaks an academic institution. And cast of Chattanooga sucked, but it’s been fun not I’m not sure I’d do it again (the chairs reminded

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Class Notes the obvious additional challenges of recruiting high-quality students who volunteer to challenge themselves physically and mentally, as well as academically, make your accomplishments even greater (despite letting a couple of Wards slip in).

The Institute will miss you. Enjoy your welldeserved retirement. I’m proud to be your BR.” You speak for all of us, BR. Rick Hack sent the “picture of Walt Chalkley, Bob Bailey, and me at yesterday’s The Villages VMI Chapter summer social event which was hosted by Blake and Sandy Thomas ’73 at their hangar. Blake and company put on an impressive air show. Lots of food and great company.

Hope all is well. Take care.” Ahh, yes—boys and their toys.

Got a quick note from Geoff Bull: “It’s been a heck of a couple of months. I went golfing for my birthday, and my golfing partner gave me COVID-19 as a gift. All better now, but it was a rough week. I just lost one friend last week to COVID-19. I helped save another. That was really touch and go for a while. Otherwise, all is good. Happy Thanksgiving.” Tough times, BR—takes tough people.

Gale Sommers said, “Not sure it’s newsworthy, but I was in Jacksonville recently and had lunch with Dick Valentine. We had a great chance to catch up and enjoy a good lunch. Dick is now working on a project with the state of Florida on civil rights compliance for organizations working with the state. Also, I’ve gotten

Class of 1972: Rev. Paul Gorski leading Mass in Memorial Hall on Parents Weekend.

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together with Walt (Galanty) and Phil (Wilkerson), both by ourselves and with the spouses for lunch and dinner before Walt headed out to Arizona.” Must have been fun, BR. So many matriculation memories—these were a couple notable ones. Sterling Spencer had me laughing out loud with this about “our year as cadre sergeants—1970—was the first year that the rats did not get hit with the Rat Line the moment they stepped into barracks. We spent the first day being ‘gentle’ and getting stuff done— as much as we could of the various ‘check-off’ stuff and issue of gear. And then, that night— after dark—the 1st Class marched in and took over. They ran the rats down through the main sinks for their first sweat party. As I was A Company, we went first and got done first. So, late that night, we are back up putting the rats to bed and then on the stoop having a quick coordination meeting with Gaulding, A Company first sergeant. George Patrick had managed to lose one of his rats. He came back from the sweat party in the sinks one shy, so me and a couple of other A Company sergeants stayed up on the fourth stoop to make sure the rats went to bed, and Gaulding and Patrick went back down to the sinks to find the missing rat. I wonder what happened to that rat and if he made it through?”

Reminds me of the Kingston Trio’s “Charley” under the streets of Boston: “Well, did he ever return ... and his fate is still unknown.”

Eric Hammersen has a very clear memory of everything that happened that day. I particularly liked this part: “It was pretty much a blur, but the roommates I had when we made up our hays in room 407 that first night were all in B Company, and we stayed together for the rest of cadre (Jim Van Landingham, Charlie Hock, and Norm Worrell). We were given a postcard to ‘write home’ by the cadre sergeant (my folks kept it, so I still have it: ‘I’ve never worked so hard before! I was even sweating between my fingers. I have found out the difference between attention and brace (or strain). I was processed with C Company. I am now in B Company, 2nd Squad, 1st Battalion. My squad leader is cadet Sergeant [Phil] Anderson. I’ve got to finish this fast because it’s almost taps. Tell Penny [my sister] that I am bald. The food is good, and we have to eat it. We must eat a certain amount and drink a certain amount. I’ll write later. Eric.’”

Not exactly misty water-colored memories, but, admit it, it makes you smile even after 50 years.

Regarding pictures of the current matriculation, Sandy Edens said, “a lot of smiles, long hair, and not much straining. I’m guessing the hair is gone and hopefully the straining is back.

‘Get your chin in rat’ is what I remember most.”

I can’t separate the words from the memories, BR. Bob Bailey slid in at assembly with this: “Timing is everything. Your Friday, Nov. 5, deadline passed, and I didn’t have anything worthwhile to contribute. Well, lo and behold, Saturday the 6th comes along and out of the blue, we have an alumni chance meeting. Here’s some words to explain the picture.” He said that, while supporting a Green Beret Sporting Clays Fundraiser, Bert Zinkand ’74 showed up at Bob’s shooting station. Bert displayed his skills at hitting clay pigeons. Coincidence, Bert is in the latest Alumni Review, and Bob took notice that Bert lives near Sarasota and now showed up at a Tampa suburban shooting range. Another member for the Tampa Chapter! Small world!” Sure is, BR—particularly for such a small worldwide Alumni Association.

And lastly, for now, George Kosovic shared this regarding his recent cancer treatments: “Near as I can tell, it’s all looking good. As you may know—and I’ve had to learn—there’s no ‘getting over’ cancer, as we do with flu. They execute the treatment plan they think will work best, deliver the treatments, and then it’s wait and see, monitoring key indicators along the way. I’m doing well this morning, the first weekday morning in six weeks that I could enjoy being at home. There was a nice celebratory atmosphere in the radiation oncology department at completion yesterday of my final treatment.

I received cautions from various people about taking it easy the next two to three weeks, as radiation side effects will still be accumulating.

I guess I better heed the warnings. Next critical events are blood tests and follow-up visits with medical and radiation oncologists in the first and second weeks of December. If you know of anyone seeking insight and reassurance about care at UVA’s Emily Couric Clinical Cancer Center, please feel free to suggest me as a reference.”

OK; that’s my allotment of ink and paper, so I must sign off for now. Stay healthy, stay the course, let’s be careful out there, and assemble at the reunion.

Rah Virginia Mil! ’72, ’72, ’72!

Larry

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

1973

Mike Kelly

Hello, Brother Rats!

I hope all of you have had a great Christmas and are off to a fantastic new year! We are getting close to Thanksgiving as I complete these notes, and it will all be here and gone before we know it. Pat and I have been pretty busy this fall. After attending some of the rat send-offs in August, we have been to several VMI events. I attended the Davidson game with my brother, Jim ’71, and my brother, Rick, a Davidson guy, over Labor Day weekend. We had a great time and did not rub it in too much to Rick. I saw BR Dave McCown there, as well as my dyke, Harry Bare ’70. Pat and I attended The Citadel game in Charleston and had a mini reunion with Frank Joyce, John Sykes, Tim Gundlach, Stuart Seaton, and John Pinner. We attended the two Alumni Association pre-game events, and in spite of the game’s outcome, we had a great weekend.

In mid-October, we attended the Alumni Association’s fall meeting in Lexington. It was really nice to be back on post for a change. The week of Founders Day, we went to dinners with the Raleigh Chapter and the Fayetteville Chapter, and then attended the Institute Society Dinner in Lexington. We were joined there by Klaus and Laura Worrell, Ken and Sherry Kalisky, and Scott McCarthy.

Pat and I have also managed to get in a couple of Appalachian State football games in between our VMI travels and going to the “ranch” in Pulaski County for various projects. My environmental consulting work continues to keep me hopping, almost full time! Pat is working three days a week, so our schedule stays busy. Hopefully, we can slow down some and enjoy the holidays!

I had a nice note from Larry Mays and Mary Duffy. A group of our BRs got together for a mini reunion at La Verona Restaurant in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania, Oct. 30. In attendance were Larry and his wife, Debbie; Art Pendleton and Susannah Urlik; Joe and Mary Duffy; John and Dottie Semmel; Jim Davidson; and Klaus and Laura Worrell. Larry and Mary said everyone had a fantastic time, and Joe especially enjoyed

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getting together with our BRs. Many of you have sent me notes about trips you have been taking this year. It is really nice to be able to get out and vacation again. Dave Northcraft and his wife, Susan, went to Colorado to visit their son, Daniel ’04, and his family. Dave said they are planning to come back East around Thanksgiving and visit with Susan’s family. He said they plan to stop by to see Doug and Pat Huthwaite on the way. Dave recently helped clear brush and trimming trees at the Leavenworth National Cemetery and was joined by Jeff Vordermark ’79, who is the local chapter president. Rick and Rebekah Gribling spent a week at Duck, North Carolina, enjoying the surf and sun, and celebrated Rick’s 70th birthday while there. They had planned a trip to England and Scotland to visit their daughter in August; however, Rebekah came down with a COVID-19 variant, and they had to delay the trip.

Fortunately, she recovered fairly quickly, and they hope to go in December.

Mac and Melanie Kirkpatrick purchased a Toyota Land Rover last spring and outfitted it for “wilderness” travel. They drove across country and up into Alaska during the summer. Mac sent me a picture of them posing at the Arctic Circle and said they really had a great trip.

Scott Lingamfelter was in Lexington, Kentucky, for a book signing and ran into Rod Brewer, who came in for the book show. Scott said they had a wonderful time catching up on “stuff.” According to Dave Northcraft, Scott was also visiting his family in Independence, Missouri, where he is the proud grandfather of grandchild No. 5!

Class of 1973: Dave and Susan Northcraft visited their son, Daniel ’04, and his family last fall in Colorado. On the way out, Dave stopped in one of the canyons and got a picture with his VMI colors.

Dave Schwab was not vacationing as yet but did retire and left Germany and is now a resident of Melbourne, Florida. I think he will like the winters there a little more than in Europe. Dave usually has a scuba trip in the winter or spring to the warmer waters south of Florida, so I expect

Class of 1973: Gathered in November for the Institute Society Dinner are Scott McCarthy, Pat and Mike Kelly, Sherry and Ken Kalisky, and Klaus and Laura Worrell.

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Class Notes he will be hitting the diving circuit pretty soon. responding well to treatment. He and his wife, in mid-November to repair a leaking heart valve.

Welcome back, Dave. Hope you enjoy your re- Debbie, are getting back to enjoying some of their I have not spoken to him yet but understand he is tirement. Note to Blake Thomas, the Alumni As- favorite things, such as hiking in the mountains doing well. Stuart Seaton sent a note out regardsociation regional director for Florida, look Dave of Arkansas and seeking out those beautiful wa- ing Doug Baumgartner. Doug’s wife, Margaret, terfalls. Boots said that during cooler weather, called Stuart to let him know that Doug, who has up and put him to work!

Tom and Bonnie Clark got their camper back they try to find a new trail each week to explore. been suffering with Parkinson’s, was diagnosed on the road and did some traveling around Colo- Fred Hall also sent me a note to say he was re- with throat cancer and is not doing well and would rado and made a trip to the East Coast in October. covering from prostate cancer, and following soon be entering hospice care. Please keep everyone in your thoughts and prayers, and Danny Williamson, Steve Lane, and we wish all of you the best and hope other BRs in the Lexington area go to for speedy recovery! breakfast once a month at one of the I wanted to also share some really local spots. In November, I think they good news for our class. First of all, were going to one of our old-time faTerry Howlett received the Civil Air vorites—the Lee Hi Travel Plaza. I Patrol award for Officer of the Year in told them to send me a picture, espe2021. Terry has been flying missions cially if Danny was buying as he said for the CAP for years, working along he would! the southern border and shuttling Tom Linn has been attending some COVID-19 test kits. Congratulations, of the home football games and reTerry! cently sent a picture of him posing Brother Rat Garland Gray II was with Moe! P.X. English as chapter honored this past fall with the VMI president in the Upstate Chapter Spirit Award for his service to VMI (South Carolina, western North Carathletics. He was recognized during olina) has helped organize a couple the Chattanooga football game. G.G. of tailgate parties. E.D. Woomer has Class of 1973: Members of the Class of ’73 gathered for lunch prior to has been a longtime supporter of the helped out at the ETSU and Furman The Citadel game Oct. 2. Pictured are (front row) John Pinner, Frank Institute, as was his father, Elmon T. games. They both recently joined Joyce, Barbara Joyce, (back row) Ann Pinner, Tim Gundlach, Stuart Gray ’46. G.G. has served on the up with John Pinner at the Furman Seaton, Debbie Fitzgerald, Mike Kelly, Pat Kelly, and John Sykes.

VMI Keydet Club Board of Govergame. Ray Burton has struggled nors and is a current member of the with some health issues this year but VMI Foundation Board of Trustees. seems to be getting along fine now.

He also sponsored the Elmon T. He recently sent me pictures of a trip Gray ’46 Athletic Scholarship award he took out West to Texas a couple of in 2015. G.G. and his wife, Ann, are times and is enjoying traveling again. now living in the Richmond area.

On one trip, he said he talked to Steve His son, Garland Gray III ’10, is a Chadwick and then stopped to see 2010 graduate and serves on the VMI Danny Williamson.

Alumni Association Board of DirecLast summer, a group of us gathtors and also resides in Richmond. ered in person and via Zoom to begin Congratulations to G.G. and thanks planning for our 50th Reunion. We for all of his support over the years. now have 21 folks on the commitJimmy Parks earned my “lost BR tee and held our second meeting in of the month award” several years November. Things are moving along, Class of 1973: Mac and Melanie Kirkpatrick traveled across the coun- ago when I heard from him for the and we are tentatively set for April try and into Alaska this past summer, pictured here with their Toyota first time after taking over as class 2023, so block out that month and Land Rover at the Arctic Circle. agent. Jimmy had moved to Marywe will confirm the dates as soon as treatments, he has received a good report. This land and wanted to touch base. He and his wife, possible.

Fifty years is a long time! It really goes by fast, but apparently actually started in 2020, and Fred went Ruthie, were living in lower Manhattan where he as we age, so does our health. We have had several through a series of hormone and radiation treat- worked for the Army Corps of Engineers as the health issues in the past few months. Larry Mays ments. Fred told me that his wife was scheduled acting chief of the construction division. The day has had knee and hip replacements. Jack Hayes to have major foot surgery this past October, so he after 9/11, he was sent to Ground Zero to survey is recovering from hernia surgery. Lee “Boots” would become the chief cook and bottle washer! I the situation and was soon tagged as the delivery team leader in charge of clearing debris from heard that Blake Thomas underwent heart surgery McNeely is recovering from prostate cancer and

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Class Notes there, but we did not see them. We Ground Zero and moving to a landfill did see a handful of acquaintances on Staten Island. In September, the from days gone by ’70 and ’75 class Danville, Virginia, newspaper wrote reunions: Tom Mason ’75, Mark and an article and interviewed Jimmy Bitzy Hall ’75, Kimo Wong ’75, Dan about his memories of 9/11. Jimmy Schultz ’75, John Maples ’75, Ben was a Danville native. He said he Vanderberry ’75, Harry McKnight worked with the Corps of Engineers ’75, Robert Keller ’75, Bobby Gregsite staff who coordinated the forensic ory ’70, Bill Gearhart ’70, Tommy site activities with the debris removal.

Cole ’77, and Topper Flynn ’67. AtJimmy retired from public service in tending the post-game celebration at 2007 and moved to Columbia, MaryHops Hill Saturday night were Pat land, and worked as a contractor in the and Sue Flynn, Snookie and Marla intelligence community for 10 years Parker, Russ Harlow, Red Underbefore moving to Galloway, North Class of 1973: Members of the class gathered for a mini reunion Oct. coffer, Jeff Huckabee and Cathy Carolina, south of Chapel Hill. Thanks 30 at La Verona Restaurant in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania. Picso much for sharing, Jimmy! Fascinat- tured from left are Laura and Klaus Worrell, Jim Davidson, Dottie Dollard, Bruce and Sue Jones, Rod ing story, and I’m sure while taxing and John Semmel, Joe and Mary Duffy, Larry and Debbie Mays, Art and Debbie Beard, Snap and Cathy Carlock; Mel and Vicki Clark, J.W. work, it was also rewarding to partici- Pendleton, and Susannah Urlik. and Pamela Sims, and Bill and Serena pate in the way you did. The story ran in the Danville Register and Bee Sept.10, 2021.

5-year-old granddaughter in Florida for about 11 Hogan. Attending the Hops Hill Sunday brunch That is about all I have for now. I hope each of months as they were evacuated twice from the were Pat and Sue Flynn, Bruce and Sue Jones, you are enjoying the winter and staying cozy and embassy in Manila where their son is a lieutenant Jeff Huckabee and Cathy Dollard, Roland and warm. Spring is just around the corner. My next colonel in the Army overseeing Security Assis- Karen Lazenby, Rod and Debbie Beard, Russ set of notes will be due Feb. 15, so you should be tance Programs for the Philippines. Their daugh- and Mary Stuart Harlow, and Snookie and Marla reading this copy of the Review a few days ahead ter, Carrie, is married to a USMA lieutenant colo- Parker. High praise for Pat and Sue Flynn for of time. Let me hear from you! nel stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia, who plans such a wonderful of celebration!

Sad news to report: Steve Fogleman ’71, RDC In the Bonds, to retire this fall. They plan to remain in the CoMike lumbus, Georgia, area. Tim says his oldest grand- president, died in August. Brother rats present at the funeral were Jim Cottrell (who also hosted daughter is now a high school senior and is being recruited by multiple colleges to swim, and VMI the event and who gave a profound and moving is in the mix. Tim says she has lots of options and eulogy), Charlie Gardner, Charlie Banning, Snookie Parker Mike Andriani, Tom Puskas, and Bill Minor. is keeping her cards close. Tim is convinced the “Steve was a truly remarkable man, larger than granddaughter will land on her feet after recruiting is done. His advice: Decide where you want life, one whose accomplishments and dedication to go for the academics and degree, not the swim- to the Institute deserve to be remembered,” said ming scholarship. One can always swim. Turns Bill Minor.

Mike Fisher wrote to acknowledge rememout her younger sister will probably have her pick Greetings Brother Rats, Family, and Friends of of schools unless she gets hurt. She is in the top 10 brance of 9/11 and voice his disappointment with the Class of 1974! in her age group in Georgia in almost every stroke the abysmal retreat from Afghanistan and concern I trust these notes will find you in good spirits. and distance and routinely competes against high for VMI. Hall Brodie checked in on his way up I-95 The following covers the period from Aug. 16- school and college students at the age of 13. There from Lexington, South Carolina, where he now Nov. 15, 2021. is a high probability that they did not get that gene Tim Bosse sent a brief update. Tim and Pat cel- from Tim. How about it: Cadet Bosse! Congrats lives with Martha, his new bride. Hall was on his way to attend his grandson’s first birthday while ebrated their 47th wedding anniversary May 26 on your anniversary, and thanks for the update! quietly at their beach house in Florida. They now Marla and I were in Lexington for the VMI ver- Martha stayed in Lexington for another grandsplit their time between living north of Atlanta sus Davison football weekend and attended Pat child’s birthday. Hall had just returned from an and relaxing in Florida (Watersound area between and Sue Flynn’s 40th anniversary/70th birthday/ 8,100-mile round trip drive out West. Hall did Destin and Panama City Beach). The kids and Hops Hill housewarming/post-game victory cel- some fly-fishing with Zeke Brant, his 22-year-old grandkids enjoy the beach, and there is a hard ebration. During the game, we sat with Pat Fly- great-nephew, an accomplished saltwater fishlobbying effort to keep from selling it. Tim is nn, Jim Diehl (West Point ’76), Bruce and Sue erman. Hall admitted he was out-fished by this freshwater fishing novice. Zeke caught a trout officially retired-retired, which means no conJones, Russ and Mary Stuart Harlow, and J.R. sulting as a side hustle. Tim reported that he Welsh. We saw Bill and Linda Faistenhamer grand slam: Rainbow, brook, cutthroat, artic grayand Pat had hosted their daughter-in-law and briefly. I understood T.J. and Kerri Wilson were ling, and brown. I’m convinced some folks are

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Class Notes departure. Facebook has been filled with pics and positive comments.

Many thanks to all across the board.

After a honeymoon in Barbados, the couple returned for a reception in Jacksonville, Florida. BRs attending were Rob and Joan Bacon and Judge and Rhoda Nottingham.

Speaking of weddings, unbeknownst to this class agent, John McLaren married Irene March 13, 2021, and reports that they could not be happier. Can’t wait to meet Irene.

Congratulations!

Class of 1974: At the wedding of Olivia Parker and George Smith in After an extended break due to Nashville, North Carolina, are (from left) Kent Wheeless, Snookie ParkCOVID-19, the Tidewater area er, David Sheppard, and Pete Shelley. breakfast club meetings have resumed. The most recent gathering was well attended. While there was continuous and animated chit chat about much of little importance, Gary Trinkle was the man of the hour, providing a very informative update on reunion planning. All liked what they heard; however, as is the tradition among fellow BRs, Gary was ribbed a little about his well-organized PowerPoint wizClass of 1974: Attending a Tidewater breakfast club meeting are (left, ardry. They all commented on their seated) George Van Laethem, Gary Trinkle, (standing) Sam Turner, Bill collective relief regarding of no lonPennypacker, Henry Moncure, Chip Beaman, John McLaren, Frank ger having to prepare or sit through Richardson, Al Rasper, Steve Ham, John Williams, and Chuck Cayton.

PowerPoint presentations. Such is the life of a retiree. However, there was a lone voice in the crowd, Steve Ham, who still agonizes over living in a PowerPoint world. Attendees were George Van Laethem, Gary Trinkle, Sam Turner, Bill Pennypacker, Henry Moncure, Chip Beaman, John McLaren, Frank Richardson, Al Rasper, Steve Ham, John Williams, and Chuck Cayton. The breakfast club will reconvene in the February timeframe.

Kudos to Gary Trinkle, Mike Coleman, Tom Puskas, and the rest of his Reunion Committee members who have been hard at work chasing down contact information for all 380 BRs that matriculated with us Aug. 20, 1970. They will tell you that it has been quite an adventure, but they have tracked down all but one, maybe. They located many who had been lost, and they have discovered and confirmed that 15 of our fellow matriculants have passed—facts that we did not Class of 1974: At the memorial service for Steve Fogelman ’71, RDC president, are (from left) know. The Alumni Review policy is to publish Mike Andriani, Tom Puskas, Charlie Gardner, Jim Cottrell, Charley Banning, and Bill Minor.

Taps going back as far as five years. There were

just born with the magic touch and could fish a mud puddle with great success. Hall did proceed to conduct his annual men’s retreat in the mountains and then was joined by Martha who flew to Bozeman, Montana, where Hall picked her up. They started their long trek back to South Carolina via Idaho (Twin Falls), Utah, and the Grand Canyon. What an adventure!

Big news in the Snookie Parker family: My daughter, Olivia, married George Thomas Smith III in September. T’was an outdoor wedding for 300-plus, so COVID-19 and weather were concerns. We were so blessed. Our wedding planner said the weather was the best she had ever experienced in her 10-plus years of planning weddings—not too hot, not too cold, sunny, no wind, no humidity, and no bugs! All I can say is that it pays to pray! Olivia and George did bury a bottle of bourbon on the grounds a month prior, as is the tradition for good weather to cover all the bases. BRs in attendance were Pete and Susan Shelley, Kent and Brenda Wheeless, and David and Susan Sheppard. We used David Sheppard’s convertible for couple

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes folks for insight. I called Phil Parker, who had would like to participate on this class bourbon no Taps listings for five of our BRs who have recently experienced torn rotator cuff surgery/ passed in the last five years, so they are included bottle committee, contact Don Ferrell at 757-777recovery. He explained the process: X-Ray/MRI, in the Taps section now: Gary S. Lyman, Peter 7431 (cell). surgery, and a six-month physical therapy recovI was given a heads up that Roland Lazenby’s H. Coley, Larry W. Sours, Robert C. Trebilcock, daughter, Jenna Lazenby, was now working in Ra- ery period. Some say that tear may repair itself and Leslie E. Morgan. May these brother rats rest leigh, North Carolina. We connected for a coffee if you just rest the shoulder. So, I am doing just in peace!

In late September, the VMI superintendent spoke clutch and am working to get her networked with that, hoping to avoid surgery. Time will tell. I did to a gathering of VMI alumni in Raleigh, North the Carolina/Raleigh VMI alum. We did make it to get an update from Phil. He is living on the Outer Banks and is still working. His wife, Randi, was Carolina. BRs attending were Pete and Susan a Raleigh area senior alum breakfast!

David Sheppard and I have been playing com- headed to Korea to visit their Army lieutenant Shelley, Sam and Karen Powell, and John White.

Hear ye, hear ye, calling for photos for our 50th petitive tennis a couple times week for about a year colonel son and will have a two-week quarantine or two now. As we age, the body is not as resilient at Camp Humphreys, then two weeks to visit with Reunion. Steve Ham and Bob Johnson are heading up a class reunion photograph project and in- as days gone by. Understanding that tennis elbow their son. Phil could not afford to go for a month; vite brother rats to submit photographs from our is a common phenomenon, I have worked on my he is still working. Phil did mention an impromptu mechanics to avoid such trauma. However, never meeting of a VMI Class of 1974 OBX breakfast time at VMI and beyond. They have set up a Facewas there a mention of the potential of a rotator club. Attendees were Phil Parker, Pete Shelley, book group, VMI – 50th Reunion for the Class of 1974 (tinyurl.com/4y826m85), in which you can cuff tear in one’s serving shoulder. It appears I Bob Benninger, and Dave Stormont. I wonder if upload photos. The goal is to pull photos from this have such a condition and started asking various they were in line for the legendary Duck Donuts, the OBX breakfast of champions, no Facebook page and other sources to doubt! Thanks for the advice on the create a video to be shown during the shoulder and the update. reunion weekend. The Facebook page T.J. Wilson provided his assessment has instructions on how to digitize and of the Samford versus VMI football upload photos. Note: This project could game after witnessing a major comeevolve into a printed book or other meback, with VMI winning the game dia. To access the group on Facebook, 46-45. What a treat, especially after type (exactly) “VMI – 50th Reunion the innumerable disappointments we, for the Class of 1974” in the Facebook the VMI fan base, have endured over search bar. VMI – 50th Reunion for the the years. T.J. sat with Pat and Sue Class of 1974 will be in the search reFlynn and reported several BRs in atsults. The site is a private group, so be tendance: Rick Kastelberg, Thomas sure to request access from your FaceWalton, Mel Clark, and Tom Puskas. book account. Click the “Join” button to request access. Please note it may Class of 1974: Attending Pat Flynn’s Hops Hill VMI versus David- A comeback victory—how sweet it is.

On Oct. 15, Ted and Susan Telle take a while to gain access because the son victory party are (from left) Jeff Huckabee, Mel Clark, Bruce account is checked periodically. Also, Jones, Pat Flynn, Snap Carlock, Snookie Parker, Rod Beard, and were on their way to Ted’s 50th high Red Undercoffer. Not pictured are Roland Lazenby, Russ Harschool reunion in Petersburg, Virginia, there are other tutorials for those who low, and J.W. Sims. and stopped for a wonderful visit to need help loading photographs to the the National D-Day Memorial in Bedford, Virsite. If you don’t have a Facebook page but would ginia. Ted sent a picture of a plaque on display at like to contribute, contact Steve (vmiham74@ the Memorial about VMI: “[I]n every branch, in charter.net) or Bob (rdjgorillas@yahoo.com) for every rank, and in every theater they served.” Ted instructions on submitting your photos. said the memorial is awesome and so dramatic.

Note to all: Don Ferrell is leading a VMI Class Ted and Susan are doing well and are headed to of 1974 Woodford Double Oaked Reserve barwarm and sunny Florida in January and to Englerel of bourbon project. The idea is to purchase a wood, California, in February. They plan to visit barrel which will render 240 bottles that will have some BRs while traveling, like Charlie Toler, Bert a brother rat’s name and the VMI Class of 1974 Zinkand, and others. Thanks for the note. Send etched into the glass bottle. The 240 bottles are enpictures. visioned to be ready for distribution prior to our Some late-breaking news came from John Sav50th Reunion. If all goes well, it should be around age just before submitting these notes. John and $65/bottle, which is about what one would pay reClass of 1974: OBX breakfast club attendAnn are doing well, looking to downsize but stay tail without your name etched on the bottle. A trip ees are (from left) Pete Shelley, Bob Benin Savannah, Georgia. John did mention the arto the distillery is in the works—a tour, lunch, and ninger, Phil Parker, and Dave Stormont. rival of grandchild No. 5 in Atlanta. John and Ann sampling. More details to follow. Any BRs who

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Class Notes are motorcycle enthusiasts and inquired as to the possibility of having a group ride through the area during the reunion. I’m thinking that is a distinct possibility. John had been through Lexington on a ride and decided to stop in and see Donnie Ross.

He asked about Donnie and got a “Donnie who?”

How soon they forget. John had forgotten that Donnie had retired from the Alumni Agencies and moved on to bigger and better things. John was looking for contact info on John Baumgardner, a fellow biker enthusiast.

I received two phone calls just before these notes were submitted. Randy Gleason called with some proud papa news. He was at Fort Benning, Georgia, to witness his son graduate from Infantry Officer Advanced Course after having completed his initial assignment with the 25th Infantry Division in Hawaii. His follow-on assignment is to teach in the Infantry Officer Basic Course at Fort Benning.

Randy said he used to spend time at Fort Benning years ago when he was in the reserve. He noted that a lot had changed since he was last in Columbus, Georgia.

I also received a call from BR Don Ferrell. It turned out that Don found himself in Eastern North Carolina at zero dark thirty chasing down a delivery truck that had broken down. This was a “must deliver on time” situation, so Don was on the road in his “pick’m up truck” with trailer to ensure the delivery was on time per specs in his contract. He was thinking he might be close to Wilson, North Carolina, and wanted to say hello while in this neck of the woods. We missed each other that night but caught up the next day. Not much civilization in the eastern parts of North Carolina ... and they like it that way!

Sad news to report as I am finishing these notes: Bill Faistenhammer passed after a lengthy bout with a brain tumor. A funeral mass is scheduled for Nov. 18, three days after these notes are due to the publisher. Marla and I plan to attend, as well as many BRs. I’ll report on that in my next set of notes. I do know that Bill’s burial in Arlington Cemetery is to be at a later date.

Continued prayers for Linda and family!

That is all for now! Send me notes and pics!

In the bonds, 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

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1975

Thomas Mason

Brothers, Sisters, and Casual Readers, This column covers your news from mid-August through mid-November 2021.

Having dampened the nib of my imaginary quill and dipped it into the inkwell, it’s with much delight that I bring these messages, as it allows me to share with the entire class the dribs, drabs, and morsels gathered at the 45th makeup Reunion this past September. The official census was that 77 BRs and 57 guests attended the weekend events.

Five additional BRs and guests were registered but had to abandon the get-together for various reasons.

Some folks arrived in Lexington Thursday, Sept.

2. Glenn Garland and Rick Davison took advantage of that day to hike up Little House Mountain.

The next morning, activity ramped up as 22 golfers arrived at Lexington Golf & Country Club for the golf outing organized by Glenn Furr. Several others met at the Quail Ridge Sporting Club for clay shooting. Meanwhile, over on post at the Marshall Hall Center for Leadership and Ethics, formal check-in commenced.

At that location, streams of people attending the Classes of ’70 and ’75 reunions moved in and out of the welcoming doors like ants in an anthill, visiting with classmates or moving on to activities such as the VMI Archives tours at Preston Library and a visit to the VMI bookstore. Cadets, too, moved about, curiously assessing all of the “old” folks who had invaded their domain.

In his zeal to conceal a short attention span, your class agent moved rapidly from one conversational audience to another, being careful to listen, absorb, discard, and learn. The arrival of so many for check-in kept this scribbler contentedly occupied and busy much of the morning greeting and hobnobbing with as many classmates as possible. Glenn Garland led 13 on a Friday morning hike on the Woods Creek Trail, and many went to lunch in Crozet Hall. The cafeteria stations offered many selections, and the reserved tables gave us a chance to dine together and visit while the Corps, cadre, and Rat Mass ate in their respective sectors.

After lunch, it was back to the CLE to the Gillis

Theatre for a virtual tour of post and a detailed look at building/renovation projects currently underway (Aquatic Center, demolition of the old Cocke Hall pool, addition to Scott Shipp Hall, and renovation of superintendent’s quarters) and upcoming projects which are approved and soon underway pending state funding. This activity was followed by a presentation given by John Young on deferred and planned giving and a tour of the Corps Physical Training Facility. Late Friday afternoon, all of the earlier activities had been completed, and the class gathered at Moody Hall to visit, enjoy a cocktail, and watch the Corps practice parade (the Rat Mass had only been on post for two weeks at that point).

After the practice parade, the class wandered back over to the CLE for our class dinner Friday evening. Guy Conte’s forced absence created a void that was deftly filled by the Alumni Association audiovisual experts, who set up a masterful Zoom environment. This allowed Guy to watch and eavesdrop on the entire evening’s activities while also enabling him to make a well-received presentation to those attending. The evening ended with everyone retiring in anticipation of a busy Saturday.

Most gracious thanks go to Scott Risser, who arranged all of the menus, catering, contracts, licensing, purchasing, and coordination with Parkhurst for the on-post requirements. Glenn Furr set up and outfitted the hospitality suite at the headquarters hotel, the Holiday Inn Express.

Bruce Torbett, Tony and Teresa Farry, and I stayed at Judy Baur’s house, and Judy arranged for Kimo and Shelley Wong and Ben and Anne Vanderberry to stay at a friend’s house nearby.

There were plans to have Preston and Ann Sloane stay with Stewart and Maryann Fleming, but this plan ran adrift somewhere along the line. This allowed all of us to mingle, cut up, and commune in an informal, comfortable setting at the Baur home.

Saturday morning dawned another beautiful day, and the check-in desk was moved over to Moody Hall where the reunion classes were welcomed for breakfast before assembling on the Preston Library front steps for the time-honored class photograph, aka herding cats. Following the photographs came the first dress parade of the fall semester and seating in a prime position just to the left of and behind the superintendent and his staff. After the last company of cadets passed in review, we formed up behind the honored Class of 1970 there for the make-up of their 50th Reunion and, led by Uncle Dave Schuyler, marched into Old Barracks for

VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1975: Dean Armstrong, Joseph Arthur, Paul Bernard, Paul Blair, Harry Broaddus, Dan Brooks, Clarence Bryant, Bernard Cobb, Frank Cole, Luther Daniels, Daniel Darnell, Thomas Dashiell, Frederick Davison, Jerry DeWaters, George Farry, Michael Fleenor, John Fleming, Philip Frank, Charles Freeman, Keith Frey, Floyd Furr, Glenn Garland, Kenneth Gerard, John Greene, Nathan Hamner, Richard Hening, James Hobbs, Charles Hoon, Joseph Hughes, William Hunter, Thomas Jones, Kevin Kavanaugh, Robert Keller, William Kobus, Larremore La Monte, Richard Law, Dennis Lewin, Charles Louthan, Kenneth MacGowan, John Maples, Philip Marshall, Thomas Mason, James McCriskin, Richard McFarland, Harry McKnight, James Mesnard, Robert Mills, Patrick Morgan, Samuel Moultrie, Jack Newcomer, Ronald Norman, Arthur Nunn, Robert O’Connor, William Overton, John Plunkett, John Prior, Lane Pritchard, Oscar Richardson, Scott Risser, Daniel Schultz, David Schuyler, Gregory Seldon, Arthur Sigsbury, Taylor Slate, Robert Slaughter, Ellett Smith, Gregory Stultz, Robert Taylor, William Terpeluk, Phillip Thorpe, Bruce Torbett, Walter Tucker, William Turpin, James Turpin, Claude Vanderberry, Oliver Way, John Whitworth, Charles Wohlrab, Felix Wolkowitz, M. Wong, and John Young.

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Class Notes the Old Yells atop the sentinel box. That lofty aerie allowed Bob Keller, Ron Norman, and me to pilot/cue a couple of cheers from our class, which cowed the Class of ’70 in enthusiasm and volume.

After a noon lunch break at various locations on post and in town, most of the class faithful found their way back to Foster Stadium and watched the football team play a pretty good first game of the season, winning against Davidson 45-21.

Then it was back to everyone’s respective quarters for cleanup, a celebratory potable, and travel of around 12 miles north on U.S. 11 to Lowrie and Kathy Tucker’s lovely farm for the Saturday evening class gala. Much merrymaking took place over smoked pork, brisket, and chicken with lots of sides, a beautifully displayed and well-stocked bar, live country-rock music, tours of the property, and general bonhomie! It was a privilege to walk about, listen, and watch eyes twinkle in amusement and voices warm into laughter at old stories being told.

A bright, warm sun rose Sunday morning to open another beautiful day of celebration as the class rejoined for a final time at Cormack Hall (the old Pit) for the dedication of the Col. Thomas S. Baur ’75 Exercise Physiology Laboratory. Judy Baur, Allen Morgan, and Maj. Dan (son) and Capt. Katie Baur (daughter-in-law) had arranged seating, breakfast finger foods, coffee, and juices so our class and guests could mingle, walk about, and view some of the sophisticated physiology monitoring equipment and devices to measure oxygen, stress, BMI, etc., which were installed in the new lab. Cadet escorts were posted at many stations and explained the purpose of each mechanism.

Following the lab dedication Ron Norman, Tad McGowan, Oscar Richardson, and Paul Blair led the remaining classmates in a prayer service with scripture, hymn, short sermon, and benediction. Then came the heartfelt goodbyes and wishes for safe travel as we seed pods scattered once again into the wind.

During the weekend, your intrepid intern had fun, informative, and interesting conversations with the always affable Vic and Tricia Arthur; Dean and Denise Armstrong; Paul Bernard and his guest, Susan Griffin; Frank and Melody Cole; Tom and Peggy Jones; Charlie and Maureen Freeman; John and Joan Greene; Nat and Nancy Hamner; Jim and Susan Hobbs; Barry and Tigger Hughes; Bill and Natasha Kobus; Larry LaMonte and his daughter, Jacquelyn (Ellie); and Bill and Ann Turpin. I came to appreciate the variety of

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regional accents after interface with Jerry DeWaters, Billy and Lee Hunter, John and Lori Prior, Bill Terpeluk, and Felix Wolkowitz.

Many of you traveled a long way to attend the reunion: Art Sigsbury; John and Mary Whitworth; Rick and Pariolee Law; Bob and Janet O’Conner; John and Michelle Plunkett; Taylor Slate; Sam and Robin Moultrie; Charlie Hoon and his guest, Sharon DeAlba; Danny and Anne Daniels; Rick and Suzanne Hening; Ken and Lu Anne Gerard; Jim McCriskin; Bill and Delores Overton; Greg Stultz and Kathleen Luedey; Bernie Cobb; Paul and Mary Blair; John Young and guest Brenda Honeycutt; and from farthest of all, Randy Frank (Hawaii).

Some folks didn’t have to travel as far, residing in Virginia and the D.C. suburbs. I speak of Harry and Carol Broaddus; Tom and Nancy Dashiell; Ron and Margie Norman; Dan and Vickie Darnell; C.T. and Diane Bryant; Mike Fleenor; Kevin and Finola Kavanaugh; Popeye and Kelly Lewin; Chip and Kathy Louthan; John and Cathy Maples; Rich McFarland; Harry McKnight; Jim and Susan Mesnard; Robert Mills and his guest, Babs Benesh; Art and Judy Nunn; the ever youthful and unchanged Lane (May I check your ID/the boy wonder) and Robin Pritchard; Jim Turpin and Susan Prokop (who contributed several cases of fine wine from their vineyard); Dan and Laura Schultz; Greg Seldon; Ellett and Fran Smith; Rob (Jelly Bear) and Sandy Taylor; Phil and Linda Thorpe; Oliver and Bonnie Way; Chuck Wohlrab, and the eternally saturnine P.T. Marshall, who loudly caviled and whined that his friend, Jose Cuervo, had not been invited to the bar stock!

I would be remiss in not recognizing those five who were registered and excited to attend but had to abandon plans just days before the event. Guy and Mary Conte and their guest, Matthew Reeder; Dan and Sandy Brooks; Keith and Melanie Frey; Jay Newcomer; and finally, John and Debbie Sheffield, for reasons of natural disaster or healthrelated circumstances which need not be disclosed on this platform.

Once again, in unison, many thanks to the committee: Scott Risser, Allen Morgan, John Young, John Greene, Glenn Garland, Glenn Furr, and Lowrie Tucker and Corri Sensabaugh, Natalie Carpenter ’21, and Patti Cook from the Alumni Association.

Transitioning from the reunion on to a welcome full fall football season, this team has been some kind of fun to watch and cheer for! The team is

currently 6-4 as of this deadline, and win or lose, they are entertaining. It’s a funny-shaped ball that doesn’t always bounce the way we want it to. On my Saturday visits to Foster Stadium, I often see and sit with Morgan, Way, Louthan, Darnell, Schuyler, Taylor, Risser, or some Hunters.

Sept. 29-Oct. 3 saw a group of 12 drive or fly to the Charleston, South Carolina, area, and specifically the lovely Isle of Palms. Oliver and Bonnie Way organized the adventure and rented a seven-bedroom, five-bath palacio and were joined by Art and Judy Nunn, Ben and Anne Vanderberry, Steve and Sherry Chapin, Stu and Maryann Fleming, Judy Baur, and me. On the Wednesday we all arrived, I had the privilege of going grocery shopping with the charming Sherry Chapin, and she peppered this scribbler with questions about the reunion and had me describe the weekend from soup to nuts. We all spent the day at the beach Thursday, as the weather was wonderful. The highlight meal was Thursday evening, as Bonnie Way had arranged for her nephew and another chef to prepare a beautiful seven-course gourmet feast for the group. On Friday, the guys were met by Billy Hunter, and we played a golf scramble while the ladies spent the day frolicking in the waves again. Stu Fleming prepared a bountiful farmhouse breakfast Saturday morning, and Ben Vanderberry prepared the accompaniment of a batch of secretly composed Bloody Marys that can take the hair off of a wooden leg! That as we prepared to go into Charleston for the big tilt against El Cid. While the game didn’t quite go as we had drawn it up and we were forced to relinquish the Silver Shako, we all had fun. I’ll note that 17 members of the class attended the pregame gathering and game. Those were Conte, DeWaters, O’Conner, Morgan, Risser, Cobb, Trexler, McCriskin, Law, Way, Taylor, Fleming, Nunn, Vanderberry, Chapin, B. Hunter, and me. The notion has been floated to make this trip every other year, as Charleston is a beautiful city!

Because of the reunion, newsy email traffic has been minimal. Andy Andisheh wrote from Alberta province that nothing much is new with him and that he appreciated his birthday greeting.

Dan Schultz reported post reunion that he is officially fully retired in Williamsburg, Virginia, and that he and Laura will celebrate their 47th anniversary Dec. 20. Dan and John Maples spend time striper fishing and playing golf together on a regular basis.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 3.

1.

2.

5.

6.

4.

7.

8.

Class of 1975 1. Kathy Tucker, wife of Lowrie Tucker.

5. Scott Risser, Robert Taylor, and Rick Law at their 45+1 Reunion.

2. Lowrie Tucker.

6. Teresa and Tony Farry at the Saturday evening event at the Tuckers’ during reunion weekend.

3. Pond House group at Isle of Palms, South Carolina, over The Citadel versus VMI football weekend.

4. Ellett Smith and Paul Bernard at the Saturday evening event at the Tuckers’ during the reunion weekend.

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7. Natasha and Bill Kobus, Arthur Sigsbury, P.T. Marshall, Cindy Persico, and Glenn Garland at their rental house reunion weekend.

8. The class at The Citadel, Oct. 2, 2021.

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Class Notes Ken Gerard remarked via email that he feels it will be difficult to surpass this recent reunion with our 50th Reunion in just three-and-a-half years.

Ken enjoys supporting University of Cincinnati football and watching the great-nephews play soccer. Ken continues to work for the engineering firm he joined in 1992 working on projects for the FAA. A heartfelt note post reunion arrived from John Whitworth from the Connecticut home and a break from raking leaves. John was so very grateful to have attended his first class gathering in 46 years and renewing friendships. He looks forward to the 50th! John even went so far as to note he will begin a recruitment campaign among his and Mary’s combined 16 grandchildren toward identifying a future cadet or two!

On Nov. 5, three of our own and a close friend drove over to West Point, Virginia, and embarked on the adventure sport of skydiving. Our intrepid parachutists include Oliver Way and his friend, Steve; Judy Baur; and Art Nunn. A disappointing outcome resulted, as only Judy and Oliver were permitted to jump. Art was extremely crestfallen when advised by the service that he could not go on the escapade. The day was not a complete bust, however, as this group made its way (20 miles) over to Urbanna, Virginia, for the annual oyster festival.

While Harley Myler couldn’t make the reunion, he managed a visit to the VMI post two weeks later on his return trip from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He commented on how impressive the place looked and that he never picked up even a hint of any nasty aftermath as a result of our class visit two weeks prior.

Tad MacGowan offered up a lengthy missive describing the move that he, Bev, and Blossom (their kitty) made from Annapolis, Maryland, to, oh let’s just say Portland, Oregon, on Alaska Airlines. The MacGowans effectively liquidated the vast majority of their household belongings due to the prohibitive cost of shipping and bought new furnishings for their much smaller house in the Pacific Northwest. This was an easy and happy decision, as all of their children live west of the Mississippi. In early October, Tad met all four of his kids for a day of hiking in Mount Rainier National Park. He is not pleased with the price of petrol on the West Coast.

Bill Kobus wrote a lengthy email covering his anticipation of and attendance at the reunion. His stunning wife, Natasha, flew into New York City

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on the morning of Sept. 1, just hours ahead of Hurricane Ida touching down. By evening, nine inches of rain had fallen, and they were literally bailing out their house. On Sept. 2, they made their way south to Lexington and opened up the home they had rented for the weekend and shared with Glenn Garland and his friend, Cindy Persico; Art Sigsbury; and Phil Marshall. Bill waxed lyrically about his homecoming to the Southern Inn, meeting old friends and entertaining Tom and Peggy Jones at their house in Lexington. At the parade Saturday morning, Bill winced when recalling his memories of dyking out and how Doug Kulick always squared him away for parades and inspections. Ah, the trials of a four-year private!

In early November, I received an update from Greg Diamontopulos advising me, and hence, the class, on his two cataract surgeries—the first in September and the second in October.

He has now regained almost bionic eyesight in the right eye with the removed cataract and

Class of 1975: Rich MacFarland and Rick Davison at their 45+1 Reunion.

Class of 1975: “Tell me about your last 46 years in 10 words or less,” deadpanned Tom Mason, class agent, when greeting classmates at their reunion.

implanted intraocular lens. He can see a flea on a dog at 100 yards. The left eye surgery to repair optic nerve damage suffered five years ago sounds similar to the first procedure with removal of the cataract and implanting an intraocular lens. Greg states that results in the left eye have not been as successful as the right but that he is pleased with the overall outcome. Great news!

Jay Newcomer and I shared a laugh over forgetting people’s names but remembering their phone numbers or, in Jay’s case, knowing the disease, treatment, and prescriptions of his patients, but not their names. He’s fine as long as he can properly patch them up!

Just prior to deadline, a timely memo arrived from Jim Schmitt letting us know that he and Karen continue to reside in Colorado Springs and that he will finally retire from teaching the dental specialty of prosthodontics in the U.S. Army dental residency program. Jim and Karen enjoy the unpredictable weather and climbing 14ers—mountains with summits over 14,000 feet.

A late surprise note arrived from Albuquerque, New Mexico. Mike Garten wrote with the news that he and Doreen were headed to a large arts and crafts expo in Fountain Hills, Arizona, to be vendors. Mike also noted some unwelcome news in that his cousin, Matt Garten ’84, passed away.

Matt related stories to Mike and his brother, Jim Garten ’74, about myths and tales that still circulated in barracks about certain members of the Classes of ’74 and ’75. Mike speaks to Charlie Hoon on occasion and bids us all well!

Greg Stultz wrote in from northeast Ohio and exclaimed how much he and wife Kathleen enjoyed the reunion and she meeting so many new people. Greg referred to several outstanding conversations he had over the course of the weekend with Dean Armstrong, Oscar Richardson, Charlie Freeman, Bill Overton, Tad MacGowan, Felix Wolkowitz, and Dan Darnell and his roommates, Barry Hughes and John Plunkett, and their lovely wives.

Speaking of Felix Wolkowitz, he was still basking in the afterglow of the reunion as he wrote to inform us that his youngest daughter is expecting and that he will welcome a seventh grandchild into the world. Felix also revealed a long-ago story that one of the dogs that often frequented the barracks found a home in the room of 3rd Class Cadets Jeff Abravesh, Izzy Yavari, and Felix. Feeding the pup Crozet table offerings resulted in a very sick pooch.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes John Costa sent me an email informing me of the unfortunate passing of both of Dan Darnell’s parents within 12 hours of one another. I spoke to Dan and expressed my condolences and inquired as to whether I or anyone in the class could assist him in any way. His concern is with the estate and probate.

Back, once again, to VMI football: Oct. 30 brought a visit by the Samford Bulldogs who proceeded to score on six of their first seven possessions, taking a 38-20 lead. The score line and game statistics looked grisly when the teams retired to their changing rooms at the intermission. There arose some fretting in the stands as to whether we were somehow afflicted by “Bulldogs,” and the third quarter began with our offense scoring to cut the Samford lead to 38-27. Samford went right back to the playbook that was working for them and scored to build their lead to 45-27. At that point, our defense stiffened like a well-whipped meringue, holding the Bulldogs scoreless the rest of the way. Our offense performed, and bedlam erupted in the stands as the clock hit 00:00! The second half comeback displayed Keydet pluck on both sides of the ball as we won the tilt 46-45, extending our record for the season to 6-2!

The retinue from our class included M. Hall; A. Morgan; O. Way; A. Nunn; Taylor, Robert, one each; C. Louthan; S. Risser, and me. S. Chapin, B. Vanderberry, and S. Fleming were in constant contact via text for current play-by-play news. A core element of stalwarts from the class ahead of ours included Thomas Walton ’74, Pat Flynn ’74, T.J Wilson ’74, Mel Clark ’74, and Rick Kastleberg ’74 representing that class. The reunion Classes of ’76, ’86, and ’96 enjoyed a terrific day watching the team display a healthy measure of brio in vanquishing this formidable foe from Birmingham, Alabama!

Two more road games in mid-November against ETSU and Furman, respectively, found our team record tumble to 6-4 and awaiting a final contest at home against a tough Western Carolina University Nov. 20.

Oh, I almost forgot, Cary Bradley reported he had nothing to report.

On a personal note, Oct. 23 brought the wedding of daughter Marilee down at Edisto Island, South Carolina. The Cypress Tree Plantation was a beautiful venue for the outdoor ceremony and reception. Five key actions did not take place at this occasion. Your scribe did not trip, faint, vomit, endure a bout of vertigo, or get an

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involuntary nosebleed—all things I feared could happen. Marilee looked radiant, and her husband, John, beamed just as brightly!

One final thought: I would like very much to be highlighting, in bold, more of our classmates’ names. Let’s call it “stick check.” When I send the reminder memo out around three weeks prior to deadline, please answer “all right” from your location (Example: All right from Frog Level, Virginia—real place, just ask the Hunters). Short, sweet, simple! Look for this reminder around mid-April 2022.

Humbly, I remain, Never above you, never below you, always beside you, Your friend, BR, and Scribe, Tom Mason

1976

William Bhatta

You will read these notes in February; however, they were written Nov. 11, 2021, VMI’s 182nd birthday—happy Founders Day! And to all brother rats who served in the U.S. armed forces, happy Veterans Day! 45th Reunion, Oct. 29-30, 2021: Unfortunately, I missed the reunion, but judging from all feedback and the picture, it looks like everyone had a wonderful time. I want to thank the BRs who made the reunion a success: Grigg and Cindy Mullen, John and Teri Coleman, Evan and Margaret Haberman, Charlie and Betsy Keen for hosting and catering Thursday evening’s supper at the Mullens’ home; J.R. Mott for organizing the golf tournament (unfortunately he could not control the weather); Grigg Mullen for organizing the clay pigeon shooting event (he could not control the weather, either); and Razz Waff for executing the memorial service (he was able to control the weather). Special thanks to Rocky Glass. He did a fantastic job keeping things on course after I dumped reunion operations and execution on him two days before the reunion.

From my perspective, there were fresh faces in the reunion crowd: Phil Brzozowski from Ohio, Frank DeLaine from Maryland, Jerry Eggleston from Utah, Ian Fergusson from Mississippi, Steven Joyce from Texas, J.P. Kennedy from

Pennsylvania, Mike Outten from North Carolina, and Tony Young from Florida. I am glad they were all able to attend! Congratulations to the reunion raffle winners! Rocky Glass won the rare Class of 1976 coffee cup, Mark Swank won the Class of 1976 flag, and Ron Hottle won the all-expenses-paid 50th Reunion raffle ticket. The raffle event raised $1,100; I donated the money to the American Cancer Society. For BRs who could not attend the reunion, I plan to host another 50th Reunion ticket raffle through an online service before the 50th Reunion.

Since the reunion’s golf event was canceled due to rain, I thought I would provide you Jim Delisio’s humorous analysis of the ’76 golf teams. I feel his pain: “As I was looking over this list of participants, it struck me that we have a lot of ringers in our group. I mean, who are these people? It seems they are hiding their golfing abilities by using aliases. Herndon Gatewood? I mean, he shouldn’t hide behind the name of the town I live in. We all know how many golf tournaments he has won when he called himself Maury. Peter Davies—is this Dyke [former executive at Delta Dental?] Do you think he negotiated a few deals on the golf course? Dabney Gillam, if this is Dexter, [he] was on the golf team! Are they hiding two-handicaps? KY [Kavie Thrift] is the smart one. He has avoided playing with me. He must be a scratch golfer. Maybe they will win. I say ‘they’ because matching me up with any of these great golfers will make it impossible to win. The last time I played at a reunion with Mike Tate, he only had a week to recover before his club championship. Not sure how that worked out, but I can guess. I spent the last few holes apologizing to Mike for making him watch me play. Let’s take Richard Glass, known as Rocky. I have a great relationship with him (and his family, as well).

We met Aug. 17, 1972, when our dykes from ’73 pulled us into their room for ‘orientation.’ I have known him longer than anyone I have ever known in my life, other than people who are relatives. I really don’t want to jeopardize this 49-year brotherhood on the golf course. J.R. [Mott] and I have played together, and I also have played with Hunt [Ozmer] at Hunter’s Hope. It is only by the grace of these two individuals that I am part of any conversation. In my book, these are two great BRs because they have had plenty of opportunities to wrap one of their clubs around my neck. My golf balls love the beach. I have hit shots that went straight for 100 yards only to turn suddenly and

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Class of 1976: John Backe, John Berberich, Philip Brzozowski, Robert Cox, Marshall Coyle, Howard Curle, Peter Davies, James Delisio, Richard Dyer, George Eastham, Gerald Eggleston, William Favier, Ian Fergusson, Jay Foertsch, Henry Foresman, Peter Friesen, Herndon Gatewood, Dabney Gilliam, Richard Glass, Evan Haberman, David Heatwole, Rodney Hottle, James Joustra, Steven Joyce, William Karnes, Charles Keen, Joseph Kennedy, Gary Knight, David Lowe, Kurt Luckenbill, John McCarthy, Langhorne Meem, Withers Moncure, Wesley Mullen, Carlton Opel, Michael Outten, George Ozmer, Kevin Pardus, Raymond Pavlosky, Raymond Ramos, Ralph Reppart, Mark Rinnan, William Ryals, Edwin Sompayrac, Gregory Speaker, Paul Spencer, Andrew Stewart, John Swain, Mark Swank, Michael Tate, Kavanaugh Thrift, William Waff, Thomas Watjen, and Anthony Young.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 1.

2.

3.

5.

4.

6.

7.

8.

Class of 1976 1. At the Jordan’s Point social are (from left) Wayne Eastham, Lang Meem, Dyke Davies, and Dexter Gilliam Saturday evening, Oct. 30.

5. At the memorial service for lost brother rats are Maury Gatewood, John Street, Charlie Keen, Tom Watjen, Steven Joyce, and Jim Delisio in the back.

2. At the 45th Reunion are (from left) Paul Spencer, John Strock, and Carl Opel.

6. At the Jordan’s Point social are (from left) John Backe, Jake Berberich, Bill Ryals, and John Swain.

3. John Coleman, Rocky Glass, Dexter Gilliam, and Frank Delaine preparing for the 45th Reunion Old Yell and strategizing on how to get to the top of the sentinel box.

7. Dave Heatwole talking to Jerry Eggleston, Ian Fergusson talking to Mark Rinnan, and John Backe in the background.

4. Dave Bass, J.P. Kennedy, and Jerry Eggleston attend the memorial service for lost brother rats in Memorial Hall Saturday, Oct. 30.

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8. Giving the Old Yell for the class are Razz Waff; Marshall Coyle; Tom Brooks, behind Ray Ramos; Rocky Glass; Jake Berberich; John Swain; Jim Delisio, holding the class flag; Hunt Ozmer in the back behind Delisio; Bill Favier; and Mark Swank.

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Class Notes land in the water another 50 yards to the side. Either side. I have hit shots in a round that didn’t roll any distance until I hit a layup in front of a bunker that decided to keep going another 50 yards until it landed in that sand trap I was trying to avoid. I noticed that we have 17 golfers. That means we have four foursomes and me. The competition for me is to shoot 100 and not lose any golf balls.

Anything else is too much pressure. I vote that I team up with myself.”

BR check-ins since the last notes: Bob Gleason resigned his position as Maryland’s chief procurement officer after four years in the job. He started a new job as the chief procurement officer for Broward County in southern Florida in September. The county is huge with a population of 2 million and includes Fort Lauderdale, so Bob will stay busy. Based on my conversation with him, he is in no hurry to retire!

Jim and Sharon Joustra are doing fine. Their son, Andrew, works in the Los Angeles, California, area. He recently accepted a new position at Nickelodeon and is working on the next Ninja Turtles movie.

I spoke to Jack Christy and Oscar Cammuse; unfortunately, they were unable to attend the 45th but committed to attending the 50th. Both are doing well and enjoying retirement. Jack lives up in northwest Washington (about 60 miles from the Canadian border), and Oscar lives north of Dallas, Texas.

Jim and Susan Mallon moved into their new home in eastern Goochland County, Virginia, in August. Jim said, “Hopefully, I’ll get to see Mack

Class of 1976: John Swain is herding BRs into position. Front row: Steve Joyce (next row) Tony Young, (next row) Dave Heatwole, John Backe, Rocky Glass, Phil Brzozowski, Gary Knight, Evan Haberman, Mark Swank, (next row) J.P. Kennedy, Jerry Eggleston, (next row) Henry Foresman, Dave Bass, Tom Brooks, John Coleman, Jake Berberich, Kurt Luckenbill, (next row) Ian Fergusson, Mark Rinnan, Kavie Thrift, Ron Hottle, Hunt Ozmer, Paul Spencer, Al McCarthy behind John Coleman, Wayne Eastham, and Lang Meem.

Curle and Ed Crews more now.” Their son, Jimmy, was married to Heather Monfasani in October in Woodland Park, New Jersey. Jim said, “It was a wonderful affair with lots of family and friends.”

Maury Gatewood played in the Myrtle Beach World Amateur Handicap Golf Championship in September. He played over four days with over 3,500 players from all 50 states and 10 foreign countries. Maury said, “It was flighted by age and handicapped, where I finished 24/51.”

(Note to self: Make sure Maury is on my golf team for the 50th Reunion.)

Class of 1976: Brother rats and guests at the 45th Reunion marching into Old Barracks following the parade are (from left, front row) Henry Foresman, John Backe, Kevin Pardus, Razz Waff, (next row) Gary Knight, J.P. Kennedy, (next row) John Strock, Ron Hottle, Steven Joyce, Grigg Mullen, Mike Tate, (next row) David Bass, Ray Pavlosky, Evan Haberman, Tom Watjen, Curt Reppart, and Hunt Ozmer.

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Congrats to Andre and Louis Koneczny. They gallivanted across the United States celebrating their 40th anniversary for two months through November.

John Dorsey said, “If I’m still alive and kicking, I’ll be at the 50th. Not a whole lot of news around here. Been spending a lot of time in Winchester, Virginia, with mom and dad. Yes, believe it or not, they are both still alive.”

Jerry Eggleston had a lot to celebrate during the reunion. Jerry said, “I retired to finish out a career consisting of nine-and-a-half years of military service, nine-and-a-half years with Tanknology [the world’s largest provider of tank testing and environmental compliance services for petroleum systems], and the last 17-and-a-half years with the Union Pacific Railroad. I officially retired from the UPR Oct. 28, 2021.”

Jeff Wall is managing a major house addition out in Snowflake, Arizona. He said, “We’re putting a wing on each end of our house, doubling the size of the place from 1,400 square feet to 2,996 square feet, plus a two-pickup truck garage.”

Rocky and Betsy Glass had a busy fall. Their son, Hunter, married Liz McGrath over the Labor Day weekend in Annapolis, Maryland. Rocky said, “Hunter and Liz had to postpone the wedding from Labor Day weekend 2020 to 2021 due to COVID-19, but it was a beautiful wedding, and we have gained a lovely daughter-in-law into our family.” Following the wedding, the Glasses

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes a ’77 class ring to BR George Boroejevich was visited Rocky’s sister in Folly Beach, South Caro- Class of ’76, and I am grateful.”

Before I end, thanks to everyone for the support made after the golf event and during the social lina, then attended his son-in-law’s (Matt Radi ’11) 10th Reunion weekend at VMI with their you showed Michelle and me during our family at the LGCC. For reasons in the past during our daughter, Hannah. Rocky said, “We stayed at emergency right before the reunion. Also, I apolo- 2nd Class year around Ring Figure, George was gize for not posting all the pictures I received from unable to get a class ring at the time. (Many of John and Teri Coleman’s Airbnb on the Maury River and enjoyed some great food and beverages you, but I only have room for 10 reunion pics in you will recall that this was the year George was busy as part of the VMI basketball team that went and relived many memories from the years gone this issue. I will post the others in future notes.

So, without further ado: I hereby call all brother to the final eight tournament!) Once this was reby. After a short stay back in Richmond, we spent another week in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, rats around the globe to assemble five years from discovered 40-plus years later, funds were raised and got back just in time to unpack and repack now—spring 2026—in Lexington, Virginia, and a class ring from Josten’s was bought so that for our 45th Reunion. It was a wonderful reunion, to celebrate the Class of 1976 50th Reunion! George finally received his ring. We were lucky enough to have George’s brother and sister atand it was great to see so many brother rats once tend for the weekend and see George get his ring. again.”

George wrote to us the following month: Spoke to Razz Waff. He was appointed the Mark Bryant “I’m still having this great feeling every time I chairperson of the board of visitors of the U.S. put on my VMI class ring! We are the ‘best class Army Command and General Staff College at in barracks.’ I know all other classes compete, but Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, Aug. 1. His daughter, you all have made our bumper sticker another reaMeaghan, started work for Eric Schmidt’s startup son why I call myself a walking, talking billboard national defense/security/artificial intelligence advertisement for VMI. I have been approached Brother Rats, think tank Oct. 1 as the associate director of reI hope all of you are well as you see this some- by people all over Ohio, Kentucky, California, search and analytics. and too many other states to mention about VMI. Congratulations to Mark and Bernadette Scul- time in February 2022.

Let me begin with thanks for all of the BRs who Not to mention the fact that it happened all over ley! Their son, Julian ’09, and his wife, Michelle, live in Hawaii and had another little boy in No- responded and made a contribution to the “flower Belgium, Spain, and even Venice, Italy, while I vember; all are doing well. Mark said, “Liam Koa fund.” Your generosity makes sure we can re- was playing pro basketball there. Sweatshirts, TSculley came in at 8 pounds, 3 ounces. Koa is Ha- member BRs and their loved ones when those sad shirts, jackets, pullovers, my leather travel bag, times arise. It also gives a great place to start mak- and now the ring on my finger and bumper sticker waiian for strong or warrior.” permanently stuck to my prosthetic foot/ankle As of these notes, Zack Laliberte is doing well. ing plans and reservations for our next reunion!

We had a great weekend get-together the first will add to my vice of showing off my VMI backHis bone marrow transplant was completed Nov. 8.. From his Caring Bridge journal: “This journey weekend of September, with our mini reunion ground. Some may take down our statues and try is not quite over. We venture now into the next tailgate and at the first home football game of to erase the great carvings on the walls, but my 2021. (Fall, not the season last spring 2021!) We Class of ’77 will always be the ‘spirit of VMI’ in phase of recovery and acceptance of his new cells.

Thank you for continuing to be here with us. It started Friday with the renewed annual golf event, me! Thanks again for surprising me with my ring, The Ralph, at Lexington Golf & Country Club. In brother rats!” absolutely does take a village.”

During the fall semester here, we saw the inAnd finally, here is a note for you from Deb- addition to remembering BR Ralph George and auguration of the new superintendent, Maj. bie Turlip: “I have been trying to write notes of awarding the green jacket to Glenn Davidson, Gen. Wins ’85. We managed to show evidence thanks to Tom’s BRs who came to the services or this year had an additional special element.

Thanks to the organizing efforts of BRs Al- of Steve Neas, J.D. Johnson, Keith Gibson, sent cards and messages. I heard from so many, and it has really touched my heart. I understand a lan Wagner and Steve Neas, a special award of and myself at the parade and ceremony. Also on Founders Day, I got to see Keith and his donation was made by VMI ’76 in Tom’s wife, Pat, as well as Kimber and Debbie name to Tunnel to Towers. Please thank Latsha, Chris Nash, Bland Massie, and the class for me. And please let them Steve and Denise Neas. I received a photo know that I am so grateful to all who have of the Latshas, the Neases, and the Masreached out. As you know, I went through sies at the Institute Society Dinner, along all four years at VMI with Tom, and I unwith their dining partner, Cadet Emma derstand what the Spirit of VMI is, and it Zhou ’22. Cadet Zhou is an academically is evidenced in this outpouring and all the distinguished major in applied mathematkind notes of encouragement and support. ics from Inner Mongolia.

I especially appreciate hearing stories of Mike and Debbie Davis sent along news Tom. They make me cry, but they make and pictures of themselves during what me smile, too. My heart is completely Class of 1977: Mark Abernathy in his woodshop crafting excellooked like a wonderful vacation in Gerbroken at the loss of my soulmate, Tom. lent keepsake boxes. many, where they returned to their very But my heart has been touched by the

1977

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Class Notes

1978

Tom Brown

Salutations, Brother Rats and Friends, As you read these notes, I am sure many of you are about over the Dark Ages and are looking forward to the joys of spring. As I write these notes, most of us are enjoying the cool weather Class of 1977: BRs gathered for a mini reunion in Lexington in September. of fall and the end of another successful Keydet 20th for early arrivals. Online registration and football season. It is hard to believe that this is the payment for all events should be available by first time since 1962 that there have been backmid-summer through the Alumni Agencies’ web- to-back winning seasons! Another bit of perspecsite, so be looking for that. We will plan for golf tive is the next class reunion, the 45th, is about 18 either Thursday or Friday. Many other events and months out. Time sure does have a way of moving activities may also be available if you wish to sign on. Speaking of moving on, let us get to the latest up for those—not to mention the home football news and status from around the class. game Saturday. By the time you see these notes, Rick Wetherill: “All right!” you should already have received information on Garry Brumback: “I retired July 1, and Jennifer hotels, etc., which you will have to book sepa- and I are splitting our time 60/40 between Florida rately from the registration for other events. Look and upstate New York, respectively. All is going for the block of rooms for us, and there may have well, and we hope Jenn can retire next spring.”

Class of 1977: BRs Steve Neas, Mark Bryto be an overflow hotel designated, depending on Bruce Kay: “All is well here. Our oldest daughant, J.D. Johnson, and Keith Gibson at our number. I have already had nearly 100 people ter, Jennifer, is getting married in December, and the inaugural parade for VMI’s new superintendent.

(BRs and guests) respond indicating that they plan we are very excited.” to be there. Really looking forward to this!

Mark Seely: “It’s been a good year for me, BR. Yours in the BR Spirit, I’ve come full circle from a pretty depressing first duty station at Dexheim where Mike was a Mark B. place to a joyful one. I married my sweetheart, brand-new lieutenant of engineers. I’ve always Rosemary La Puma, Oct. 16, 2021, and thought it would be cool to go back to was fortunate enough to have three Class the old inter-German border area where of ’78 BRs at the wedding. It was a gloriwe used to plan our defenses against the ous day in all respects. Here’s a pic with Warsaw Pact.

Bill Pearson, Jim Mackin, Rosemary, Mark Abernathy sent news that he is yours truly, and Tim Berkhimer with making some wonderful keepsake boxes Sausalito and San Francisco in the backin his wood crafting shop. He plans to gift ground.” one to Gen. Peay ’62 from our class in Rick Wolffe: “The captain of the chain honor of his service to the Institute. Way gang, Ned Riester, has recruited me to to go, BR! work the home football game. It has been Fall here in Lexington is beautiful this great fun to be on the sidelines, especially year with some great colors. Lots of rewith a winning Keydet team. This pic union weekends, home games, and visiis from one of the spring games; photo tors and events. hound Bland Massie ’77 snuck in the Speaking of reunions, by the time you pic!” see this in February, we will be well on Jimmy Leech: “Good timing on this, the way to planning our next “official” Class of 1977: Attending the Institute Society Dinner are Kimreunion, marking 45 years since our class ber and Debbie Latsha, Steve and Denise Neas, and Bland as I just attended a small gathering of and Jane Massie with their dining guest, Cadet Emma Zhou the Corpus Christi area alumni, arranged graduated! Our reunion weekend is Oct. ’22, an academically distinguished cadet from Inner Mongoby Murf Hudson ’82, our local chapter 21-22. We will almost certainly have some lia majoring in applied mathematics. president. Charles Plageman ’90 from the sort of informal get-together Thursday the

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes with Bruce Wells who is doing great and looks Alumni Agencies was there to give us an update. on the gridiron. Make sure you support your Keyterrific!”

Among others, I enjoyed visiting with Josh Smith det Club!”

Ron Lee: “I am retired in Virginia Beach. Work’97 and Doug Payne ’73. Otherwise, we’re doing Vagel Keller: “All right!” ing on my painting and wallpaper skills at home. well, and I have nothing new to report.”

Bob Fricke: “All is well in Colorado. My oldest Mever is still working. I married a younger womMike Oelrich: “All right from not-so-sunny son is done with flight school, married, and staan. My door is open, and the beer is cold. Firepit Florida! Just changed companies for the last time. tioned in San Diego. My youngest son is schedWorking now for Torch Technologies but still uled to graduate from the University of Colorado is ready. Come on down!”

Les Shimanek: “Still in Maryland doing F-15 flight test at Eglin Air Force working at Naval Air Station Pax River.

Base. Family is doing well and looking Had a couple of emails from Bob Lonforward to the holidays!” gwell. Might try to get down to the InstiBob Vidrick: “I will be joining the tute in the spring.” retirement community at the end of the Steve Powers: “We are all doing well year after 33 years in the information in New Hampshire! As the majority of technology field, the last 24 of which our BRs, I’m now on Medicare and tryhave been with National IT at the Federal ing to adjust to it. Still working my reReserve Bank. My only plans are to get tirement part-time job at the Manchester more ride time on my road and mounBoston Regional Airport as a licensed setain bikes and take more vacations with curity guard. Kind of ironic when workmy wife. And, hopefully, take the Rhine ing ‘the curb’ post. Who would have ever River cruise in May that has thus far been Class of 1978: Bill Pearson, Jim Mackin, Rosemary, Mark Seely, thought that 47 years later I’d be poundcanceled three times due to COVID-19. and Tim Berkhimer at Mark’s wedding in San Francisco. ing the bricks, literally, protecting MHT Sending my best to our BRs.” from terrorism as I did as a rat protecting Tim Fredrickson: “Since my accidenVMI barracks from the hordes of invadtal fall in May, I have been in rehab at the ers from Southern Seminary, Mary BaldVA hospital in Richmond. I am staying win, or Longwood College! Quite simiin a rehab facility on Forest Avenue in lar as before, as on hop nights, I’d be able Richmond. I am currently accepted into to have ‘eyeball liberty,’ admiring their the Veterans Home at McGuire VA Hosbeauty and smelling their perfume while pital, just awaiting a slot to open. I conmarching my post. Now, it’s all the same tinue to improve and get stronger with ‘girls’ with walkers and canes, and their every passing day. I am now walking kids requesting wheelchair assistance to 3-400 feet daily using a modified walkget them on their plane back to Florida. er, along with a lot of other exercises!

Their perfume went from Tabu to BenMany thanks for all of the support from Gay! Received the Pfizer ‘trifecta,’ no ismy BRs, as it has been a major factor in sues, and my flu shot. Can’t wait to see if keeping my spirits up! Rah Virginia Mil Medicare covered the flu shot!” ’78 and never say die!”

Jim Simons: “All right here!”

Tom Sliwoski: “All right in WilliamsJohn Tucker: “All right in Columbus, burg.”

Ohio. Retirement remains awesome, and Dan Tuck: “Glad to see you all moved our fourth grandchild is on the way!” in; welcome to Florida. Next time I swing Tim Berkhimer: “Definitely ‘All right, through Mount Dora to Orlando, we’ll Class of 1978: Ned Riester, captain of the chain gang; Bland Massie ’77; and Rick Wolffe, who Ned recruited to work the sir!’ Had the pleasure and honor to join have to have a beer. All’s well, working home football game.

BRs Bill Pearson and Jim Mackin at part-time and enjoying the grandbabies Mark Seely’s wedding to Rosemary in Sausalito, and looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christ- in December. My wife is doing fine. I survived California, a couple of weeks ago. Was a great mas.” having COVID-19 in September. Still can’t smell trip and a fantastic opportunity to stand with a Danny Thornton: “We’re hanging in here in or taste, but I am losing weight, so it ain’t all bad.” three-year roommate on a special day for him.

Lynchburg. Have seen multiple BRs at football Ronnie Milligan: “My second daughter, Anne Champagne and nosh on Mark’s boat, the 3 Roys, games this year, including Bert Loflin, Stu Gitch- Stewart, got married in September in Kilmarnock, Friday afternoon followed by a great dinner with ell, Rick (chain gang) Wolffe, Dave Wrenn, Bob Virginia. Brother Rats Billy Way, Jerry Harris, other out-of-town guests. Also had a ride-along Simpson, Anthony Moore, Dave Montgom- Steve Oddi, Bill Hardy, and Shady Grove were ery, Bill Hardy, Bob Eagle, Ned Riester, Glen in attendance. It was a beautiful night, and all the with Jim and Regina to Muir Woods and a Nike missile site. Perfect day for an outdoor wedding Dalinger, and others, I’m sure. Another fun year ’78 boys had a great time. Recently had lunch

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Class Notes and a great dinner afterward. And a special shoutout to Pearson for hauling me to the airport at 4:30 a.m. the morning after the wedding. I came away with the feeling of, ‘That’s what being a brother rat is all about.’ Also, I have picked up a part-time gig working at a local hardware store down by the Virginia Beach oceanfront. It’s all about interaction with those who walk through the door, nothing like the big box stores. And I have signed on to help another firm in the disaster response and recovery industry to help them market across the commonwealth. Staying busy and out of trouble, so far. Loving this retired life!”

Andy Faulconer: “Celya and I are doing well in Lynchburg. Both of us are busy at work and with grandchildren.”

Anthony Moore: “All is well in the River City.

Dave Montgomery, Steve Oddi, and I were in Lexington to see the Keydets defeat Davidson.

We were joined by Keith Barber and Stu Gitchell to tour the Corps Physical Training Facility. It is a fantastic facility with a state-of-the-art indoor track, a 60-foot rock wall, and many other obstacles dedicated to training the Corps.”

Don Hogge: “Everything is all right here.”

Butch Brown: “All right from Atlanta!”

Mark Lambert: “All is well here in St. Charles.

All healthy and safe.”

Jim Mackin: “Things are fine here in North Carolina. Looking forward to Thanksgiving dinner with Kat, my oldest daughter, and her husband, Brian ’11, in Fayetteville. All of our daughters will be together—a rare event these days!”

Ken Blythe: “Thanks to Jay Hutt for facilitating the monthly class Zoom. Join us!”

Sam Saunders: “We are ‘all right’ here. My son, Tom ’09, and his wife have moved back to Virginia from California, so we are excited to have them nearer. Best wishes to you and all the ’78s.”

Leland Horn: “All good here!”

Paul Campbell: “I just completed an adventure at Disney World and surrounding parks Oct. 26Nov. 5 with Martha and our children, their spouses, and of course, the grandchildren, a grand total of 10 people in the group. Disney was a delayed adventure due to COVID-19, as we were planning on going this time last year. It was quite an adventure and was enjoyed by all. As for Martha’s and my next adventure, we’ll see.”

Alec Earle: “Everything is great with Sheila and me. By the time this is published, we’ll be settled in our new home in Las Vegas. I recently attended a joint VMI Foundation and Alumni

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Association fall board meeting. While there, I was able to catch up with Anthony Moore, now vice president of the Alumni Association. We missed seeing Glenn Jones, who was recovering from surgery and could not attend the VMI Foundation meeting.”

Harry McClellan: “All right here in Northern Virginia. I’m hoping the CDC lowers the age for receiving COVID-19 booster shots before our end-of-year trip to visit our daughter in Germany.

I’m not old enough just yet. I am back from a several-week business trip to southern New Mexico.

Carlsbad Caverns is worth visiting, and hiking in the Cloudcroft area is excellent. We have no grandchildren yet; congrats to those of you who do! Best to all.”

That concludes the latest from around the class.

Keep in touch with your BRs, give a call, drop by, send a card, or join us in the monthly class prayer call. As always, time to send news and pictures for the next set of notes.

In the Spirit, Tom/EZ Bear

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Michael Ogden

Brother Rats, Hope this finds everyone safe and well.

Asa and Karen Page just returned from two weeks exploring Wyoming, Idaho, and northern Utah. As they prepare to retire at the end of 2022, they’re looking forward to relocating from Virginia Beach to a new location. So far, they’ve made multiple trips throughout both northern and southern Utah, Nevada, Florida, Arizona, Wyoming, and Idaho. Asa reports both western Wyoming and southeastern Idaho had phenomenal trout streams for fly fishing, incredible mountain views, and impressive real estate options and that Wyoming is very appealing. However, reality came crashing down when they had to drive two hours over to Idaho Falls just to find the basic necessities of life (Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, and Chick-fil-A). Asa also shared that Karen wasn’t exactly thrilled about the 100-plus inches of snow the Realtor shared they could expect from November-May. At various times during the trip, Karen had to remind Asa that he’s no spring

chicken anymore, and having to go search for the mailbox on a snowplow gets old real fast.

Ron Burner reports that this has been a busy time for the Burner clan. “In the past 30 days, my daughter, Laura, got engaged; I retired from Dominion Energy after 41 years; and then my son, William, got engaged. I’ve been working on Laura’s house since the middle of August, so even though I’ve been retired for two weeks, yesterday was the first day of true retirement. Of course, now I have to catch up on everything I haven’t done around my house for the past several months. Currently, my only retirement plan other than picking up on furniture building projects is to drive to Kansas to try some extreme long-range shooting.” Class agent’s note: Congratulations on the retirement, Ron! John Kailey writes in he had yet another medical procedure, albeit rather minor. It seems that he had a small retinal tear in his right eye, which he chose not to ignore this time as he did for his left eye. A little laser and back on the road. Class agent’s note: Glad your eyes are better!

Smitty Smithson writes, “This is not noteworthy, but I am headed to [Lexington] for the football game this week. I haven’t been to VMI in maybe 25 years. I am always afraid the registrar will find me and rip my diploma away and tell me I have to take one more class to get paroled from there. The UVA grad who invited me to go with her to the game undoubtedly needs a little education on the social skills and nuances of attending a VMI football game.”

Phil Andrews checks in with, “Next Sunday, Nov. 14, I’ll be 65 years young. I saw our BR Tom Manley’s brother, Jerry ’81, is the class agent for his class (’81). My brother, Steve, ran into Joe Jenkins in California when Steve was in the Marines. It was when the U.S. went into Iraq to kick Saddam out. I ran into Tom Manley at the O Club at Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, when I was going to the cashier’s cage many years ago. I was at Kadena from September 1984 to late September 1987. Tom was there TDY.” Brian Tollie reports that “Tom Manley and I just finished backpacking the Maryland section of the Appalachian Trail—about 40 miles. We had planned for four days but took about five. Very slow going. So many rocks and hills along South Mountain, but we survived.”

Gelb Taran sends, “Brother Rats Chappy Lucas, Tom Manley, Tony Pais, Pete Underwood, Brian Tollie, and Phil Southers gathered at the

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes baseball season ticket holder, I attended Cracker Barrel in Mechanicsville for a the 20-year anniversary ceremony event brother rat breakfast on Founders Day, of Sept. 11 at the NY Mets’ stadium of Nov. 11, 2021. From there, we proceeded Citi Field. I was able to find and wear on the fifth military history series tour to my actual BDU uniform shirt from the the sites of the 1864 Overland Campaign day I was called up for active duty right in eastern Hanover County—Battles of after the tragic events of 9/11. Sad that Haw’s Shop/Enon Church, Totopotomoy your clothes shrink when receiving them Creek, Bethesda Church—ending the back from the cleaners. LOL! This certour with a hike through the trenches of emony had a very large on the baseball the main battle area at Cold Harbor. Parfield contingent of New York City police ticular attention was paid to the battlefield and firefighters to include their band/pipe disposition of divisions commanded by band. Brought back clear vivid memories VMI graduates William Mahone ’847 when I watched the second plane hit the and Robert Rodes ’848. We ended the day World Trade Center tower live from my with a late brother rat lunch at Riverbound midtown Manhattan office. And then Cafe. Four previous brother rat breakfasts/ eventually had to walk 8 miles home tours included 1865 VMI military operations in Richmond; 1862 Peninsula Cam- Class of 1979: Brother rats formed up on the patio of Moody that day. But, as always, hearing the staHall after serving as panelists for the 12th annual Alumni paign—Fort Monroe to Big Bethel; 1862 Networking Forum that was hosted by the Alumni Asso- dium crowd chant, ‘USA, USA,’ is alPeninsula Campaign—Warwick/York- ciation. Pictured are Tim Bridges, Charlie Sachs, Gleb Taran, ways uplifting! Because of my one-year 9/11 presidential call-up and being the town Line to Williamsburg and Fort Hug- Tony Hamilton, and Pete Alvarez.

McGuire Air Force Base Reserve civil er; and 1862 Battle of Cedar Mountain.” engineering squadron commander at Marc Withers checks in with: “My wife that time, I was able to receive a defiand I are doing fine. Nothing special. I’m nite promote to O-6 from my brigadier still working with MITRE but starting to general wing commander. So, like that think about retirement. Life on our farm old saying goes, things happen for a reagoes well. We’re glad fall is here; we were son and things happen for the best. God getting tired of the summer weather.” rest all those souls who were lost on 9/11 Pete Alvarez reports, “Charlie Sachs in New York City, the Pentagon, and in secured invitations for five BRs to particiShanksville, Pennsylvania. We will nevpate in the 12th annual Cadet-Alumni Neter forget our generation’s Pearl Harbor.” working Forum hosted by the Alumni AsA late entry from Stosh Morris: “Have sociation in Moody Hall. Over 50 alumni recently been connecting with BR Wilattended and were assigned to panels son who has been providing great help based on their various career experiences. and mentorship to the cadets who reCharlie participated in the corporate and started the Cadet newspaper at VMI and professional support services panel and Tony Hamilton in the IT/cybersecurity Class of 1979: Brother Rats Chappy Lucas, Tom Manley, Tony are doing a great job. Ran across Jeff Pais, Pete Underwood, Brian Tollie, and Phil Southers gathpanel, while Tim Bridges, Gleb Taran, ered at the Cracker Barrel in Mechanicsville for a brother rat Smith at VMI earlier this month while and Pete Alvarez joined the government breakfast on Founders Day, Nov. 11, 2021. They also took the I was down there supporting the Cadet panel. Each panel met with groups of 1st 5th military history series tour to the sites of the 1864 Over- newspaper staff when they provided and 2nd Class cadets to share tips for se- land Campaign in eastern Hanover County—Battles of Haw’s livestream and other coordination supShop/Enon Church, Totopotomoy Creek, Bethesda Church, curing employment after graduation. All ending the tour with a hike through the trenches of the main port for the Class of ’56 for their 65th Reunion. It was great to see the cadets BRs were impressed with the quality of battle area at Cold Harbor. come out to support these great senior attendees, and several cadets enthusiastically accepted offers from panelists to engage via Smuggler’s Notch in Vermont and visited Revolu- alumni. The Cadet will be doing a special feature for their ‘profiles in leadership series’ on email after the forum ended.” Class agent’s note: tionary War sites in New York and Massachusetts, Glad ’79 was so well represented! Pete contin- Mystic Seaport in Connecticut, and the witch- BR Pete Alvarez, followed by one on BR Charues that he and Charlotte spent the first half of related sites in Salem, Massachusetts. Pete and lie Sachs, and John Poffenbarger helped set up for a focus on the history of Thailand and VMI October on a road trip through the mid-Atlantic Charlotte returned to North Carolina recharged with BR Surapong Su Suwana-Adth. In typical and New England. Their focus was to enjoy the for planning a trip to the Southwest national parks ’79 fashion, BR Surapong detailed a major gener“leaf-peeping” change of season, as well as visit in fall 2022.

Steve Scaglione posts, “As a New York Mets al and several colonels to support the cadet for his various historic sites. They established a base at

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Class Notes great to catch up with him and hear the views of an old fighter pilot. I had not seen him in 25 years or so, so this was really cool for me. Jeff was getting ready for his reunion and had some homemade distillate to share. I had some; his BRs are very lucky.

“Talked with Noel Harris last week. Noel is consolidating real estate holdings while continuing to work for DECA around the globe.

Noel fills me in on the comings and goings of the Bay Area brother rats. He also promised to have some work for me in the near future, and I Class of 1979: Brother rats attended the funeral of BR Jeff Smith’s father, Lt. Gen. Jeffrey look forward to that.

Smith ’43 (Jackson-Hope medal winner and commandant of the Corps of Cadets 1960-63), “Not much else to report here—just skirat Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 3. Pictured are (from left) Brian Tollie, John Arthur, Ed mishing with the leaves, swimming, golfing, Johnson, Brig. Gen. Jeffrey Smith Jr., Bob Morris, John Colonna, Ray Duffett, Tom Manley, and enjoying the great weather. I got my shots and Chappy Lucas. and physicals up to date, so I’m ready for the article! Went to dinner with Charlie Sachs in Lex- Dan took a break from helping his son build a Thanksgiving, Christmas, and new year holihouse in Spokane, Washington, and Molly took ington the night before the Cadet-Alumni Netdays. That is all; return to what you were doa break from her jobs in the Miami area. Dean ing.” Class Agent’s note: As always, many working Forum in Moody Hall. We met again with BR Gleb Taran for breakfast before I took Smith could not join us as he was on the Apthanks, Bro! palachian Trail hiking south from Harpers Ferry.

Gleb over to the VMI Archives for a viewing of Our condolences to Jeff Smith at the pass‘banned VMI historical documents,’ including We became members of the elite ‘Vandenberg ing of his father, Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Smith ’43 (a his VMI file. Gleb, Charlie, Pete Alvarez, Tim Vikings’ (it’s a thing Randy does). The diving on Jackson-Hope Medal winner and commandant of Bridges, and Tony Hamilton were all panel- the USNS Vandenberg wreck was excellent (it’s the Corps of Cadets from 1960-63). Several BRs ists. I also recently had lunch with George ‘The a primo dive site on the East Coast). As previ- were able to join Jeff at his father’s funeral serGreek’ Elaides in Richmond who wanted me ously reported, BR Pekerik is a real pinniped in vice at Arlington National Cemetery Nov. 3. If I to make sure it was documented since he never the water, and it’s always good to have an uber might share, my lasting memory of Jeff’s dad was sees his name in the class notes!” Class agent’s divemaster with you (Randy has over 10,000 he once chewed me out in an email for grossly dives worldwide, with 2,300 on the Vandenberg note: There ya go, George! misspelling Jeff’s name (Jeffrey vice Jeffery) in a Will finish off with that always reliable and en- alone). Not only does he know a lot about div- class notes entry, I believe it was. Jeff is a junior, joyable Bill Albro: “Now cooler here in south- ing, but he is also the gregarious Bürgermeister as you all know. Great man and a tribute to his ern Maryland, and the past few mornings of of the Florida Keys; he knows everybody and class, VMI, the Army, and our nation. frost have finished the garden. It’s great weather everywhere. (He’s either a Bürgermeister or a I finally finished the two outbuildings (workfor growing grass and playing golf. Barbara and one-man self-appointed unpaid tourism pontiff; shop and tool shed) we have added to the “esI’m not quite sure).

I went to Ithaca for some hiking and touring tate,” along with new fence and brick pathways “I had lunch with Jeff Wilkins ’65; it was around Cornell and then we went to Corning, (1,600 bricks, thank you very much!) connectNew York, to tour the glass museum in ing everything. Thank goodness for Youearly September. Weather was beautiful, Tube! Did everything myself (except raise hiking was great in the gorges around the the walls to the workshop) and took seven Finger Lakes, and we highly recommend months all in all. Never built anything the Corning Museum of Glass. We even before, so it was quite the undertaking. sandblasted some cocktail glasses and Senior management is most pleased, and made glass Christmas ornaments. You that is a good thing. We now have four can certainly spend an entire day there, sheds and a pump house. Renee started and we didn’t see it all. Ya gotta like a referring to them as Old Barracks (garden small town where the steam whistle on shed), New Barracks (workshop), Third the factory lets you know how the day is Barracks (tool shed), and Her Barracks progressing. (potting shed)! Ya think she loves VMI? “The planned BR dive trip with Dan Class of 1979: Dan Sheahan, Randy Pekarik, Bill Albro, and Stay well, ’79!

Sheehan, and his daughter, Molly, oc- Molly Sheahan (Dan’s daughter) diving the wreck of the —M Cayman Salvage master—approximately 70 feet deep and curred at the end of September for some seven miles off Key West, Florida, in September 2021.

These ’79 class notes were reviewed and diving with Randy Pekarik in Key West. approved by Renee.

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Class Notes including the red hot dogs, the sweat party in the main sinks, the barber shop, the Rat Bible, their cadre corporal, and the doors being kicked in the John Gibney Jr. next morning, were Alex Woelper; Josh Priest; John Blankenship; Tom Bersson; Rick Fowler; Kevin Cordray, who also included a photo from the Bomb; Bruno Loefstedt, who also wrote that he was retiring at the end of September; Bill Roelofsen; Mike Luning, who somehow returned to Hello, Brother Rats! his room after the main sinks sweat party and had These notes cover the period Aug. 14, 2021, a beer; Mike Hall; Craig Jones; Pat McCarthy; through Nov. 15, 2021.

Dan Conn; and Ali Mahan (see his response beThe period began with the arrival of Tim Hodglow). es in the Poconos, where he joined me in my golf Separately, Tim Hodges sent a text noting the club’s annual member-guest tournament. We significance of the date. called Tolar Nolley, who congratulated Tim on I exchanged text messages with Matthew Keys retiring from VMI after 41 years on the faculty. on his birthday. Matthew and Tanya live in the I received a voice message from Don Couch, Fredericksburg area, and their sons followed by a text message from live in the D.C. area, so they spent the Hugh Fain. Hugh wrote that Don was day boating and grilling. Congrats to looking to reconnect with his VMI Tanya, who works remotely, on a big roommates and reached out to Hugh. promotion at work. Matthew closed I called Don, who lives in Chesterfield by saying they were planning to visit and is fully retired. He asked for conLong Island in October for the wedtact information for Steve Andrews, ding of Phil Munisteri’s son, Connor.

Cliff Munns, and Carl Wittig. I proI exchanged text messages with vided the information I have and/or Steve Andrews following hurricane that is contained on the VMI website.

Ida that hit Long Island and New Were you able to connect with anyone, England in August. Patti and I were Don? As you will read below, a group of Class of 1980: BRs Tom Bersson, Dave Hagemann, Larry Hupertz, visiting friends in the Hamptons and our BRs traveled to Cleveland pri- Jay McConnell, Dixon Tucker, Mike Luning, and Preston Vock at were evacuated. Of course, the hurriLarry’s house in Cleveland in September 2021. cane jogged east and made landfall in marily to attend the VMI versus Kent Rhode Island. Steve and Cathy were State football game. I reached out to relocating their daughter, Caroline, in our BRs in Western Pennsylvania: Cambridge and were passing through John Casamassa (who was vacaConnecticut during the storm but made tioning in Florida), Tom Gelles, and it back to Virginia without incident.

Dwight Pearson, to see if they were I exchanged text and voicemail mesplanning to attend the game. Neither sages then finally spoke with Elliott John nor Tom was able to attend due Wolffe, who was trying to put together to prior commitments. I exchanged a round of golf with Tolar Nolley, who texts with Dwight Pearson. Dwight was planning to travel from Richmond included a photo of his Pennsylvania to New Jersey. license plate (VMI 1980). Dwight Ed Baker sent a text after reading the was planning to attend the game, notAlumni Review. Dr. Baker now works ing that his home is a two-hour drive two days a week, and he and Dianna from Kent, Ohio, but a seven-hour have traveled to Montana three times drive from Lexington. He also asked this year—twice to RV and fish. One if Larry Hupertz would be playing. trip included a visit by their daughter I received an email from Jay Melvin that appeared to be spam. I called Jay, Class of 1980: Having dinner at the Lexington Golf & Country Club and granddaughter from San Diego.

Nov. 6 are Jack Keane; P.J. Griffin; Dennis Jacobs; Gary Levenson; He was planning a fourth trip with their and he confirmed that it was spam. Jay Jay Melvin; Tim Hodges; Ned Riester ’78; Bob Robinson; and Ray son for the fall trout spawning run. lives and runs his family business in Joinson and his dog, Hondo. Photo by Megan Ayers ’19.

August ended with a series of email Lexington. On the day we spoke, he

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was the only member of his family not in quarantine with COVID-19. He also said that business was rebounding. Trudy and their children are doing well. Jason works with Jay. He and Kelley have two children, Bess (4) and Quinn (2). Sarah teaches second grade and lives with her husband in Waynesboro.

On Aug. 18, Frank Hilton included me in an email to 74 of our BRs with a reminder that the date marked the 45th anniversary of our matriculation and thanked everyone for helping him survive the experience. Jack Keane and Hugh Fain echoed Frank’s sentiment. Bert Schneider responded with a first day at VMI story and photo of him during one of our rat-year sweat parties that appeared in the Bomb. In order of receipt, responding with their own first-day memories,

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Class Notes messages initiated by Rob Quarles regarding the visit to Ohio by the group referenced above.

September began with an email from Jack Keane noting that Mike Harper was appointed to a three-year term by the board of regents to the University System of Maryland at Southern Maryland Board of Advisors where he joins Jack. Congrats, Mike.

The VMI versus Kent State football game was played in Kent, Ohio, about 30 miles south of Cleveland. Larry Hupertz, who lives in a Cleveland suburb, suggested that a group of our BRs who typically attend a football game in Lexington make the Kent State game the annual excursion.

The group attending included Rob and Elizabeth Quarles, Dave and Diana Hageman, Preston and Shari Vock, Boyd and Donna Gaines, Tom and Amy Bersson, Tony and Tracey Zoetis, Mike and Malissa Luning, Dixon and Nancy Tucker, and Jay and Marge McConnell. Patti and I drove out early and attended an Indians game and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Larry also gave us a tour of Cleveland. Larry arranged a dinner for early arrivals Thursday evening and a golf outing Friday morning. Following golf, Larry and Vera hosted the group at their home for drinks and dinner.

Breakfast Saturday preceded the game. Larry and Vera also hosted dinner Saturday evening. Dwight Pearson attended the game.

Mike Molhoek sent an email after receiving his birthday card. Mike is retired, lives in Fort Worth and is enjoying life as a house husband.

We discussed getting together, as Mike has a daughter he was planning to visit in Brooklyn. I also connected Mike with Mike Luning.

John Caplice sent a text, and I responded with a phone call. John and Margie are fully retired and have travel plans—some of which were postponed by COVID-19. John also has a nephew who is a rat, and he and Margie are football season ticket holders. They also have several parking passes on the Parade Ground where they host a tailgate at each game. I was unable to accept John’s invite to attend.

October brought a postcard from Tim and Becky Mecredy, who are downsizing and building a new home. The card contained their new temporary address, as well as their new permanent address.

They expect to move to their new home in late 2022 or early 2023.

A Southwest Airlines pilot vaccination mandate was in the news, and since Andy Ludlum is a retired Southwest pilot, I called him. He explained the situation and also reported that he and Nicki and their children and grandchildren are all doing well. Andy is enjoying being fully retired.

Tom Gelles called from Hawaii, where he and Lynn were on vacation. While there, Tom met with Don Bradshaw and was trying to visit with Paul Keel. Tom is still working as a paralegal, while Lynn is fully retired. Tom also said that he has now visited 40 of the 50 states.

Tom’s visit brought an email from Don Bradshaw. Don wrote that, two weeks before Tom’s

Class of 1980: Eastern Shore gathering including BRs John Blankenship, John Caplice, Hugh Fain, Tolar Nolley, Josh Priest, Allen Ramer, Tom Wilson, and Bud Zirkle in September 2021.

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visit, Mike Flinn and Bonnie visited, and for 10 days, they roamed Honolulu, the Big Island, and Kauai, hiking, snorkeling with manta rays, eBiking, and touring the Jurassic Park movie sets. Don extended an invite to all who may be visiting Hawaii.

Bert Schneider sent a text with a photo after receiving his birthday card saying that he retired from Raytheon. Good luck, Bert.

John and Margie Caplice also sent a text with a photo taken at a gathering they attended at Josh Priest’s house on the Eastern Shore. Our other BRs attending were John Blankenship, Hugh Fain, Tolar Nolley, Allen Ramer, Tom Wilson, and Bud Zirkle.

I spoke at length with Gary Levenson, VMI’s outgoing deputy commandant. Gary planned to retire at the end of the 2021 school year but agreed to stay through the end of the calendar year to assist with the transition to a new commandant.

Thank you for more than 20 years of VMI service, Gary!

Jack Keane sent a “prayer request” email (published with permission) with the news that Ray Joinson, who some time ago was diagnosed with a sarcoma in his legs and was told that the sarcoma has metastasized to his lungs. I called Ray, who said that it was OK to include this in the class notes.

Responses of support were sent by Mike Flinn, Tom Gelles, Frank Hilton, Bruno Loefstedt, Tolar Nolley, Dan Sweeney, and Tracy Wilson. Jack also noted that he did not host our BRs on his annual trip to Connecticut due to COVID-19.

November began with an email from Hugh Fain containing a link to a YouTube video from Business Insider titled, “What New ‘Rats’ Go Through in Hell Week at Virginia Military Institute | Boot Camp.” (Look it up; it is worth viewing.) Josh Priest, Bud Zirkle, Tom Wilson, Tolar Nolley, and Dusty Boyd all viewed and then commented.

Jack Keane sent an email with an attached photo taken at the Lexington Golf & Country Club. Jack was in Lexington attending the Cadet-Alumni Networking Forum sponsored by the Alumni Agencies. In attendance at a dinner were Pat Griffin, Dennis Jacobs, Gary Levenson, Jay Melvin, Tim Hodges, Rob Robinson, and Ray Joinson with his service dog, Hondo.

Jack wrote that Ray is doing well, working on a homeopathic treatment. Ray is also planning to visit VMI to attend the final home football game Nov. 20. Joe Belkoski, Jeff Basilotta, John Caplice, George Condyles, Frank Hilton, and Ali

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Mahan sent replies to Jack’s message.

I spoke with Ed Baker after his return from his fourth trip to Montana. Ed and Dianna plan to host their son, daughter, and granddaughter for Thanksgiving at their home in the Outer Banks.

Nov. 10 marked the 246th birthday of the U.S. Marine Corps. Wade Stinnette sent a text with a happy birthday emoji. Steve Letts sent a text, called, and sent a U.S. Marine Corps video clip.

He copied Robby Wheeler. We have exchanged voice messages but did not connect.

Founders Day (Nov. 11) includes a dinner for members of the Institute Society. Attendees at the 2021 dinner included Hugh Fain, Pat Griffin, Jack Keane, Jay Melvin, Gene Scott, Wade Stinnette, and Dan Sweeney.

I spoke with Pat and Beth Griffin and Dan and Cindy Sweeney, who were on vacation in Key West, Florida. Dan and Cindy’s son, Bradley, is working in Norfolk. Anna was recently married.

Pat and Beth’s son, Michael ’17, is stationed at Maxwell Air Force Base in Alabama. Their son, John ’22, received his ring in November. He plans to commission in the Army upon graduation.

In closing, above are comments about the anniversary of our matriculation in 1976. The string of messages included the following quote from the email sent by Ali Mahan, published with his permission. “As many of you know, we ... started our journey from Iran in spring ’76 and attended various military schools in the U.S. before moving to VMI—in my case, it was Norwich University in Vermont, where I spent the summer going through language and military training. On Aug. 17, we flew to D.C. and spent the night in Crystal City, then took a van from Northern Virginia to Lexington on the 18th. When we pulled onto Letcher Avenue and I saw the barracks and the white-clad cadets for the first time, the first thought through my mind was, ‘This can’t be right; this place looks like a mental institution, not a college.’ Keep in mind that when we filled our applications in Iran, we were not allowed to know which school we were applying for (I distinctly remember a piece of cardboard was placed on the application I was told to sign which covered the entire document with the exception of the signature line). I learned what the V, the M, and the I stood for when I was in Vermont. Like many of you mentioned, I will never forget the red hot dogs (which turned the bun red), and the line to get a haircut; I was starving and got stuck in front of the vending machine in the hallway between the mailboxes and the

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barbershop with my nose about 3 inches from the glass; I can’t remember the name of the snack, but it was a disgusting looking cream-filled pastry of sorts but it looked so good at the moment. Had I not been at VMI, I (and the other six Iranian cadets in our class) more than likely would have ended up being deported in 1979 after the Islamic revolution in Iran. We were relieved of duties by the superintendent based on the deportation orders from the State Department, but the VMI connections/people were able to change our status 48 hours later and allowed us to stay and graduate.

Many people say that VMI changed their lives; in my case, it did actually change the course of my life, and I am forever grateful for what VMI and my BRs did for me.”

Finally, please take a few minutes to confirm/ update your personal information contained in the VMI database through VMI Ranks, vmialumni. org/ranks.

Thank you for your continuing support and for keeping me in the loop via phone calls, text messages, and email. Please stay safe.

1981

Jerry Manley

My Brothers and Sisters, I am writing these notes in mid-November and shaking my head in disbelief over how quickly these past three months have slipped away! Our reunion will be upon us before you know it. By the time this Review is received, we will be just one month away from gathering at Natural Bridge!

Before we get started with our class inputs, I want to again share our deepest condolences to our BR John Locher and his family for the loss of his beloved brother, George, Sept. 18, 2021. I want to share a few loving words from George’s obituary, words that could easily be said about the entire Locher family: “Whether it was a simple good morning post on Facebook, a weekly call to check in, a fishing trip down the Maury River, or a cookout fit to serve an army, George could be counted on to embrace you in fellowship and bring a smile to your face. Above all else, George was your friend, and he was going to be there for you when you needed him.” George will be missed by many, and our hearts remain with BR

John Locher and his family; God bless them all.

On to our class inputs: Rich Bartholomew shared that things are going great in San Antonio for him and Nancy. Rich’s official “final” retirement was effective Sept. 17 after 26 years in the Air Force and 14 years with Wood Environment & Infrastructure Solutions. His transition was a smooth one with “only a few calls from the office.” Rich shared that it has been surprising how relaxed he has been since retirement. While he had a great team in San Antonio and everything was going well with ongoing projects, Rich shared that he “always internalized things and guess I was a lot more stressed than I realized.” Since retirement, Rich and Nancy have traveled to Memphis twice to support family but also added a trip to the Smoky Mountains and the Cumberland Gap, linking up with some dear friends of 40 years from Florida.

Greg Wolven and Ann are now both retired and have been working diligently to unpack and set up their home in Burkeville, Virginia. They enjoyed having BR Bob “Gator” Underwood stay at their home in early August after the party held at Deb Baron’s home to celebrate both the Wolvens and BR Corky Mitchell returning to Virginia (see the last Review for a picture of the BRs who attended). Though “retired,” Greg has been busy with his Wolven Power Engineering Solutions LLC, working with national and international companies. Greg also traveled to New Jersey in September for the National Electrical Safety Code conference. Ann further shared that they attended the Apple Butter Festival in Tyro, Virginia. There they met up with Dixon Tucker ’80 and his wife, Nancy Collins, and spent a wonderful evening at their home in Nelson County, Virginia.

John Dixon shared that all is well on Gwynn’s Island. As of early November, he and Patti were still catching crabs in Patti’s crab pots. It seems that Patti has the lead on crabbing, as John shared, “I am just the bait boy around here.” John remains blessed and happy working in West Point at the middle and high schools teaching math. He is just not ready to retire yet, as he enjoys making a difference in the lives of the young adults and mentoring potential future VMI cadets. On the family side, John and Patti now have seven beautiful grandchildren (all of whom have provisional appointments) and another on the way!

Trip Lloyd shared that between working for U.S. Agency for International Development and managing the billions of dollars being spent on

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Class Notes COVID-19 related actions and requirements, he has still found time for theater, stating that “both activities provide their own unique levels of drama.” Trip’s church and jazz choirs have restarted, which provides him a genuine joy. It has been a year since his bride, Anne, had knee replacement surgery, and she is doing really well. His son, Liam, is a freshman at VCU, and his daughter, Amanda, is considering returning to college to pursue her passion for nursing. As of this writing, the Lloyd family is planning a Christmas cruise to the Caribbean, skiing in late January, followed by another further-reaching cruise in February for just Anne and Trip.

Congratulations to Mike Denton for receiving the President’s Award from the Federal Association Order of Malta. This award was in recognition of Mike founding their Richmond Region, leading a soup kitchen and prison ministry, then collaborating with BR John Locher on building a beautiful chapel for a low-income assisted living home. Mike gives John great credit and thanks for the chapel build. Mike and John also collaborated on the links this fall, where they won the inaugural Hermitage Country Club Senior Member/ Member Tournament with both Katherine and Jody nervously watching the fourhole shootout. Mike and Katherine sold their Short Pump home to their daughter, Allison, and her husband, Ryan. This had special meaning to Allison, as it was her childhood home. Subsequently, Mike and Katherine have moved a few miles west to Manakin-Sabot, still near their five grandchildren, and hoping for classmate visits soon and often.

BRs Paul Brier, Mike and Katherine Denton, Bruce and Trish Kitchen, and I had the honor of sharing an evening at the Jefferson Hotel in Richmond where we attended a dinner honoring Operation Healing Forces. OHF is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to our special operations forces who have served at the “tip of the spear” in our nation’s battle to defeat violent extremists around the world. OHF focuses on helping to restore relationships wounded by the unique call of duty faced by our special operators and their families.

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Class of 1981: BRs Mike Denton, Jerry Manley, and Bruce Kitchen at the Jefferson Hotel attending a dinner for Operation Healing Forces.

Class of 1981: BRs Paul Brier, Steve Tennant, and John Holloway sharing lunch in Williamsburg Oct. 30, 2021.

Class of 1981: BRs at brunch at the Pan Am Family Restaurant are (from left) George and Robin Depaoli, Greg White, Frank Palermo, John Williams, Nick Savage, and Wendy and Jim Langan.

At the event, heartfelt testimony was provided by two families that have benefited from OHF, as well as special guest speaker, retired U.S. Army Gen. George Casey.

It was a phenomenal evening to share with BRs. If you are interested in learning more about this program, please go to operationhealingforces.org.

In October, Jim Waring was in Washington, D.C., to attend the Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting and Exhibition at the D.C. Convention Center. As in the past, VMI had a booth set up and manned by VMI cadets who were branching Army after graduation, as well as a contingent of VMI Army ROTC cadets bussed up for the show. Jim stopped by to chat with them and, of course, had to ask them what they thought of the new commandant, Col. Adrian Bogart (our very own BR). Jim waited for their response before he told them he was his BR. Every cadet he spoke to had very high praise for Bogie’s leadership, energy, and positive attitude. They then informed Jim that Bogie was there at the AUSA show.

Sure enough, later that afternoon, Bogie was walking by Jim’s company’s booth, and Jim flagged him down. Jim and Bogie had a great time catching up, and Bogie is quite fired up about his role as commandant. Bogie shared with Jim a lot of the new programs he is implementing or “reinitiating” from the Old Corps (i.e., rifle PT, as an example). Jim also stated, “We shared lots of war stories from our days in Foxtrot Company, especially 1st Class year when he was company executive officer, and I was guidon bearer. He looked great, and we really enjoyed catching up.

He made a plug for our Class of ’81 reunion weekend next year, and I told him we would be in Lexington. I was also able to catch up and visit with my brother, Matt ’83, at the AUSA show. Nice attending in person again after COVID-19 canceled last year’s event.”

Ray Lawson reports that he remains “full-time, semi-retired.” As reported in the last Review, our very own “Joe Fizx” continues to teach a homeland security course for Tulane University and is doing a little part-time work

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes as a mathematics coach with Mathnasium. His coaching ranges from second-grade math to precalculus. Ray reports that he is selling a little bit of his artwork; something he never expected to do.

Perhaps most important of all, Ray is expecting “grandbaby No. 4;” another grandson is due toward the end of February. Ray had an unexpected surprise in October when he received an email from his dyke, Scott Konkus ’78, saying Scott and his wife, Nancy, would be in town to look at some potential retirement homes. They were able to get together, and Scott and Nancy treated Ray and Gale to a nice supper with ample reminiscing about the Old Corps! It had been a couple of decades since Ray and Scott saw one another.

Steve Tennant recently flew to Virginia from Kansas to visit family and managed to meet up with Paul Brier and John Holloway for lunch in Williamsburg Oct. 30. As always, Old Corps stories were recounted. Paul and Steve had not seen each other since graduation, and Paul committed to attending the 40th Reunion next spring. Steve and John were able to watch the thrilling comeback portion of the VMI football victory over Samford at Steve’s sister’s house after lunch. Of equal importance, Steve was able to secure possession of our class bourbon from his son, Joseph, and transport it back to the Midwest.

Ed Boylan reported that things are well in Prosper, Texas. Linda and Ed traveled up to the D.C. area to take their daughter, Peri, back to the D.C. area. Peri is living and working in Old Town Alexandria. Linda and Ed also had a great weekend trip in November to visit Tom and Sandy Savage. Tom and Sandy bought a retirement home on Galveston Island, and they spent the weekend dining and drinking and watching thousands of bikers that had invaded the island for a huge rally.

Jorg “York” and Meg Ronke had planned on a long trip to Europe in 2020 that was nixed due to COVID-19 concerns. They were able to finally visit Berlin, Germany, for two weeks at the end of May and early June, immediately after the German COVID-19 lockdown eased. They used that quick visit as a beta test to determine if their plans for a longer two-month trip in September/ October would be possible. The Berlin visit proved to be a success, and Jorg and Meg returned to Europe at the beginning of September, where they spent two months traveling through Denmark, Germany, France, Austria, and Italy.

They returned stateside Nov. 1 but plan to return

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to Germany in December to enjoy the Christmas holiday season and German Christmas markets with their son, daughter-in-law, and granddaughter in Heidelberg.

Gary Morgan is extremely proud of his Leonberger, Jambo, and rightfully so. Gary has been extremely busy with dog shows and his 1-yearold (and 140-pound) “puppy” won his first AKC Champion point Aug. 14. Gary and Jambo participated in Triple Crown in late October. The Triple Crown consists of eight events in three days.

Jambo did very well, but as he is still young, he was essentially at the middle of the pack. There’s a big leap from the puppy class to the junior dog and open class competitions, and Gary is learning how to be a better dog handler with each event, as well as the finer nuanced points on how to best present his beast to the judge. Jambo won his first 17 consecutive puppy class events, including two smaller local events, and was designated a Puppy of Achievement by the AKC for garnering those wins. He’s got some growing into his frame and maturing to do (Jambo, that is, not Gary!) to be able to compete with the older dogs. Gary shared that he would not have thought last November,

Class of 1981: Jorg and Meg Ronke enjoying Copenhagen, Denmark, in September 2021.

Class of 1981: Jambo, a 1-year-old Leonberger, and Gary Morgan, handler/owner, at the Penn Ridge Kennel Club Show at the Meadow Event Park in Doswell, Virginia, Aug. 14, 2021.

when he retired, that he would be showing his Leonberger and finishing an AKC championship with the goal of making it to the Westminster championship a few years down the road!

Deb Baron moved back to Katy, Texas, in early November. She had a lot of support packing up here in Virginia, with huge kudos going to local BRs Corky Mitchell, Gary Morgan, Ken “Catman” Morris, Louis Rolan, Greg and Ann Wolven, and Vince Wood. They helped to “dismantle” the house and pack up most of her household goods in advance of placing her home on the market. Soon after, Deb sold her house and purchased a new home in Katy. When her household goods arrived in early November, additional BR support was on hand. BRs Rich Bartholomew and Mike Duval drove from San Antonio and Lewisville, three- and five-hour drives, respectively, to help unpack household goods and execute many needed chores to help Deb set up the new home. Things moved very quickly for Deb, and the BR support eased Deb’s stress and helped facilitate her transition.

(Thankful to you all! BR Keith Baron is smiling down upon you all!)

BR George Depaoli orchestrated a Class of ’81 brunch Nov. 6 at the Pan Am Family Restaurant in Fairfax, Virginia. In attendance were BRs George and Robin Depaoli, Jim and Wendy Langan, Frank Palermo, Nick Savage, Greg White, and John Williams. A great time was had by all!

Some other “quick hitters:” Bill “Greek” Argiriou is doing well in Cranberry, New Jersey. He is back to working in New York City three to four times a week. Greek and BR Jim Hanratty catch up for breakfast once a month or so.

As many know, Karl Betz was in the ICU for a few days in late September. Karl shared details on Facebook and in texts that I won’t address here but suffice to say that he remains well and expressed tremendous gratitude several times over the outpouring of love and support. He underscored the blessings of and care from his loving wife, Cyndi, who showed her tireless devotion throughout his ordeal. (God bless you both, Karl and Cyndi! Stay well!)

Adrian “Bogie” Bogart chimed in with a brief bullet. He wanted to simply state that “we are off to a very successful start and moving VMI to the ‘Win!’” Mark “Sloppy” Gonsalves shared that he and Maria returned in late September from their annual pilgrimage to Patmos, Greece. Sloppy is happy to

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Class Notes report that approximately 37 kilos of octopus was of being together! Until then, stay well and God us plan these festivities, please, by all means, let us know! As always, my contact info is attached successfully caught, cleaned, sun-dried, and trans- bless! to these notes.

In the Bonds of VMI and the Class of ’81, ported to the U.S. and is available for any BRs Just a few notes from around the class.

Jerry willing to visit their home in White Plains, New Joe Bouchelle sent in a note after reading the York. most recent Alumni Review. This summer was Robin and Mat Merriman are expecting their spent traveling out West to visit their seventh first grandchild, a precious girl, in early JanuWill Council grandbaby. Joe says his kids did not get the memo ary 2022. By the time this edition goes to print, about staying within an hour’s drive for the free there will likely be Facebook notifications of the babysitting service. All live in Utah or Arizona. blessed arrival! Both Mat and Robin are excited But they did get to go see the Grand Canyon. about spending more time in Richmond with their Joe also reported that he attended a wedding redaughter, Kristine, and her husband, Matt. ception hosted by Keith Jarvis for his son. There Corky Mitchell sold his home in Florida and were quite a few BRs there: Cookie (of course), Hello, Brother Rats, bought a new home in Waynesboro. He is threatMike Shea, Erik Karrel, Emmet Heltzel, and I hope these notes will find you well and preparening to have BRs over for bourbons and scotch, ing to attend our 40th Reunion. Since you will be Larry Williams. (Plus wives, I am assuming!) It and I am eagerly awaiting the formal invitations!

Pete Tranchik chimed in and reported that reading these in February, that will mean there are was great to see everyone, and they should have all is good in Blackwood, New Jersey. His wife, only three months to go. So, get up out of the re- taken a picture but just didn’t do it. Everyone was Barb, was on her way to New Orleans to visit their cliner, set these notes down, find your phone (it’s talking about the reunion, though, and very exyoungest, Melanie. Pete is planning to retire Dec. probably stuck in the sides of the recliner), and cited for it! Life in good old Buena Vista is great!

Joe is still enjoying teaching and “Marco Poloing” 31, with Barb planning to follow suit in another make your reservations now.

VMI Class of 1982 will celebrate their 40th Re- the grandkids every day. two years.

George Mayforth gave me an advanced warnFrom Facebook, we have seen some tremen- union on the weekend of April 22, 2022.

Best Western Hunt Ridge will be our home base. ing that he would be visiting the Institute over dous artwork from BR John Reed. I recommend Parents Weekend to enjoy all that Lexington has a quick visit to John’s website, johnreedesign.com, Make your reservation now by calling 540-464to offer, so I knew he would give a nice follow-up where VMI artwork can be found under “Land- 1500 (VMI Class of 1982).

Many activities are planned: Early arrival cel- report. He said this trip was different from most, scapes, Portraits & Other Reflections.”

Our BR Dan Gallagher continues to follow his ebration at Moody Hall Thursday; Friday parade; as neither the Shutts nor the Wainwrights would passion for writing. He has produced works in Friday evening celebration at Corps Physical be there to take him under their wing for the footnonfiction/financial, adventure/humor fiction, and Training Facility; Saturday morning memorial ball events, which included wonderful tailgating. cinematic literary works. You can access Dan’s service, class picture, and parade; and Saturday George arrived Thursday evening to stay at the website to view his works at ancientofgenes.com late afternoon/evening fun at the Gaie Lea venue Abigail Inn. Since Friday’s parade had been canin Staunton, Virginia, for a casual meal and a celed, he opted to hike both Little and Big House or authordan.com.

And last but not least, Shannon and I were in band playing! Plan also to play a round of golf Mountain. Friday evening included some takeout and a stiff old fashioned on the veranda of the inn Portsmouth in late August to visit Tidewater Cof- and do some shooting and fun shopping! looking at House Mountain.

If you or your wife have any interest in helping fee in support of her standing up the first coffee Emmett Heltzel and George had comshop in Powhatan, Virginia. As we left municated before the trip, and he inPortsmouth, were able to stop in on Rob formed me that he, Jim Hickey, and Mark “Cos” Costello at the Norfolk Naval Air Shifflette (along with their wives) would Station, where he is a helicopter simulator be visiting, as well. Emmett, Jim, and instructor. Cos had us in the simulator to Mark met up with George for the Saturgive us a feel for flying the MH-53E Sea day parade. At that point, he explained Dragon. The MH-53E currently has two to the three of them that he had watched missions: Airborne mine countermeasures them “operate” the tailgating experience and a Navy vertical onboard delivery. It over the years and wished to be a part of was an awesome experience. As Cos put their group for the day. Mark assured him it, “It’s the greatest video game ever!” he would not be disappointed, and he was With that, BRs, I am looking forward right! What follows is a first-person acto seeing all who can make the reunion counting of that experience. in March! It will be a bit different for us, “Both Jim and Mark had lined up a as we have never celebrated our brotherClass of 1982: Horseshoe bend, Grand Canyon, summer trip tailgating opportunity at a new residence hood at Natural Bridge, but I believe it for the Joe Bouchelle family. behind the stadium which included great will be a great success simply by virtue

1982

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes food, an ample supply of alcohol, and good people! I acknowledged to the three of them that I was wowed by their networking ability, and they shared that their many years of practice had evolved them into well-oiled tailgate-party-finding machines!

“At halftime, I opted to take the lead as we pursued beverages from an unsuspecting tailgate party within the stadium parking lot. I explained that I had studied their tactics and was ready for my first mission! Success: I found a Class of 1985 party, and we were welcomed with open arms and cold beer by Jake Spivey ’85, as well as others!

“We finished our day back on the veranda of the Abigail Inn enjoying my old fashioneds and looking out onto House Mountain. I thanked the trio for allowing me into their circle, if only for the day, as they made it a truly wonderful day for me.

Interesting how a four-year-long experience can allow these special reconnections.”

Truly spoken, George!

Be looking for more information about our class reunion. You know it will be fun and exciting, so go ahead and start making plans to attend.

Sincerely, Will Council

1983

Steve Amato

Hello, BRs, These class notes cover the period from Aug. 15, 2021, to Nov. 15, 2021. Mary and I hope your fall season was great.

“Snake” Arnold informed me, “Bubba Hazelgrove finally has Venmo; he sent me $3.83 for couple of tacos.” Well, Bubba, you got away cheap; I cannot even buy a gallon of gas at that price.

In September, Mary and I spent four wonderful days visiting Lionel and Tracy Urquhart in Akron, Ohio. Akron offers quite a variety of outdoor activities. We bicycled over 26 miles one day on the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail, which travels through Cuyahoga Valley National Park, visited the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, checked out the Ohio Amish Country, and enjoyed time with Lionel and Tracy. After visiting the Urquharts, we continued our vacation in Dayton,

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Ohio. In late September, we were blessed with the birth of our sixth grandchild, Lincoln Steve Amato, to our younger son, Nick, and wife Chynna.

Three each, granddaughters and grandsons.

Professor Mark Benvenuto wrote me this update: “Thanks for the email, and good to hear from you. Here’s something I hope you and the BRs might find interesting. Check out this weblink: sites.udmercy.edu/amsa-medalxibit-2021/.

At the University of Detroit Mercy, we have a very active student group, the student chapter of the American Chemical Society (the chem club).

This fall, I helped them organize an exhibit of art medals with the American Medallic Sculpture Association. The exhibit is actually in our library, as well as virtual with the link I just included. You can also download a PDF of the exhibit catalog from there. Weirdly, our BRs who are engineers might get a special kick out of how I came to this.

In my general chemistry teaching lab (yep, that’s rat chemistry), I have my students make lead-tin alloys. We also carve designs in graphite blocks and pour the alloys into them, with the block serving as both mold and heat-sink. Even though our end results tend to be art medals, the engineers will recognize this is all about parts design and heat transfer. It’s a neat connection of art, science, and engineering. Anyway, I hope that might be of interest. I hope you and yours are doing OK. The Benvenuto clan is healthy, which I am thankful for.” Mark, thanks for the interesting link, and congrats in your continued instruction to those general chemistry students!

In a flurry of text messages back and forth with Joe “Campi” Campisano, he is still towing gliders. Campi stated, “I took our new tow plane up for a couple of hops in the pattern then made 11 tows afterward. I’m approaching 600 tows! Working on becoming a CFIG (flight instructor-glider).

My goal is to achieve instructor status in the next couple of months. Silvana is currently in Peru.

She’ll be back next Tuesday after spending over a month there with family and friends. Hope all is well with you, Mary, and your family.” Campi, thanks for the note, and fly safe.

From across the Atlantic, I received a nice email update from John Carpenter. He wrote, “Hi, Steve, I hope this note finds you well. I have not done any updates before and may not again, but since I retired this year after 35 years of research sales and sales management, and living in Washington, D.C.; Boston; San Francisco; and London, my whole life in urban areas, I have changed it up

and moved to a very small village in the southwest of England with my wife of two years. With all these changes, I thought I’d drop a line and say I am out of the game and enjoying my new life with my wife, Amanda, and our two dogs. My very best, John.” It was great to hear from you, John.

J.J. Costello’s wife, Cherie, was hospitalized for 45 days (Sept. 7, 2021-Oct. 22, 2021) with very critical cardiac issues which resulted in Cherie becoming a recipient of a heart transplant. Many BRs were supporting the Costellos through spiritual means, and their blessings were answered as Cherie walked out of the Norfolk Sentara Heart Hospital on her own. J.J. and Cherie, your BRs are very happy to hear of this wonderful news.

Dr. (medical, that is) Marty Curry dropped me a note on Labor Day weekend with a short update. Marty was in Baltimore, Maryland, in August celebrating his mother’s 93rd birthday.

Marty wrote, “Steve, sorry couldn’t get to see you when I was in Baltimore. Mom’s 93rd birthday went well. I’m the attractive one on the left (of two pictures sent) though if your next ’83 section needs some flair of COVID-19. The other picture is what we need to wear these days when operating on COVID-19-positive patients (helmet thang is called a PAPR, a positive airway pressure respirator). It’s like having air conditioning in a helmet that doesn’t let air in, only out. Anyway, next time, amigo, and happy Labor Day.” Marty, how awesome you were able to partake in your mother’s birthday, and thanks for the picture with the PAPR. Did you wear it as a Halloween costume?

In an October email from Chris Caudill, he said, “Hey, Steve, after 43 years of wearing a uniform (high school ROTC, VMI, active duty, and teaching Air Force JROTC for five years), I retired at the end of the 2020-21 school year! Vickie and I bought a Winnebago Travato and drove from Tampa, Florida, to Yuba City, California, to see her family! As part of the trip, we stopped

by Mount Rushmore, South Dakota (a personal dream come true)! Hope all is well with you!”

Well, Chris, you just increased the number of our retired BRs. Glad you and Vickie had a wonderful cross-country road trip.

I received several updates throughout the fall from Hugh Daughtry in which he provided great updates for our class. Hugh wrote in October, “Steve, greetings from Rocky Top! It’s been a busy summer for Robin and me. Our son, Zach, got married in August, so a lot of the activity of

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Class Notes the summer led up to that. It was a wonderful I may have late-breaking news after that week- Goodwillie. Skip’s note was, “Steve, I know I’ve ceremony just outside of West Jefferson, and ev- end. Hope you and Mary are well.” In November, been derelict in my consistent comms for class erything came off perfectly. It’s been the season Hugh sent this update. “Steve, just under the wire, notes. I will bone myself! Here’s a catch up on for weddings, and Robin and I were in Charleston I was in Johnson City watching the Keydets take the Richmond Goodwillies. Staci and I are doing the same weekend as the El Cid game. The time on ETSU. Malachi Mills had made the 5-and-a- the stubby pencil work of figuring out when I can of the ceremony precluded me from attending half-hour drive down from Richmond that morn- retire. As of now, we are confident that it will be the game, but I did get a kitchen pass to hit the ing to watch his son and the team. It was good somewhere around 2050. Seriously, we’re probtailgates. Of course, one does not go to a VMI/ catching up, and a beautiful day even though the ably within two years or so, but we’re both doing The Citadel game in Charleston without hitting game didn’t turn out the way we’d hoped. Hugh.” well. She and I work out daily and walk 36 holes of golf a week; yes, even in winter since I’m inBrent Dunahoe’s tailgate. He puts it on with a Thanks for the updates.

I received an awesome update from Skip fantry! As an athlete, she’s down to a 17 handicap bunch of guys from The Citadel’s class of 1983, and will be crushing me soon. We just won and they are in Position A just outside the the Mr. and Mrs. Richmond Country Club stadium. Brent and Lisa, along with their tournament but for low net, not gross. We Citadel friends, are wonderful hosts, and were off the gross by about five strokes, ’83 was definitely heard from that afterso maybe next year. Our daughter just noon. Some may not know, but Brent and had her first child, a son, Caleb, in April.

Lisa met during our Corps trip to CharlesStaci is watching him five days a week, but ton in 1982. Lisa is from a Citadel family, that won’t last long. That boy just turned and Brent retired from the Marines as the 6 months old, and he’s 25 pounds! I tell PNS at The Citadel. They have remained Staci that she’s lifting a Caleb-ball not in Mount Pleasant and control the real esa kettle-ball! Might be the reason she’s tate sales market in that area. Among those out-driving me on the golf course. Our there were Dan and Kristen McGuire; son, James ’12, is in his second year of Dave and Kate Hall; Lynn and Cele Selthe company he started, a mortgage origidon; Borden Ray with his daughter, Mary nation firm called Brightleaf Mortgage.

Claire; and Wade Branner’s wife, ElizaThey’re up to five employees now and are beth. Dan and Kristen have recently relogetting rave reviews, so if anyone wants cated from Montana to the Low Country, buying a home in Bluffton. He still teach- Class of 1983: Dan McGuire, Hugh Daughtry, Dave Hall, the VMI discount and is purchasing a Brent Dunahoe, Borden Ray, and Lynn Seldon at the VMI property in Virginia, I might know a guy. es, but in this day and age, his classroom versus The Citadel football game in October 2021.

He is well-versed in all types of loans, inis where his computer is. Lynn and Cele cluding VA, and his rates are lower than the mainwere up from Beaufort, and Lynn is keeping the stream firms. His oldest son, James G. Goodwillie keys hot on his computer as he finishes up another VI, just started kindergarten and is already taking novel. Borden was there with his daughter, Mary after his pawpaw. His dad asked him how his first Claire, a recent graduate of the Naval Academy. day of school was and if he found his classroom He has a home at Hilton Head and had made the OK. He answered, ‘Yes, I found it after breakfast.’ trip up for the day. Dave and Kate Hall have also ‘Breakfast?’ James replied. James VI said, ‘Oh, made the pilgrimage to the Low Country, though yeah I was hungry, so I went to the cafeteria and Dave still works at the Institute for now. The Mcgot breakfast.’ Dad asked, ‘How did you pay for Guires and the Halls join Scott and Pam Horan that?’ His reply, ‘Oh, it was free. They didn’t ask and Breck and Cabell Gorman in the Bluffton me for money or anything. It was great.’ Ella, our area and Lynn and Cele Seldon in Beaufort. With granddaughter, at 2-and-a-half is lighter than her this concentration of BRs in the region, Brent’s 6-month-old cousin. She is fearless and will do tailgate should stay strong for years to come. The and sometimes outdo her brother. I think she’ll be voice of the Keydets, Wade Branner, was, of the flyer on a cheer squad. As for BR connections, course, working, but his bride, Elizabeth, was at Cal Murray; his son, Cam ’12; our son, James the tailgate. She represented her brothers, Grover ’12; and I played in the VMI Richmond Chapter ’81 and Jim Outland, well, and it was fun catchGolf Tourney and had a great time. I was walking up. Our class S3, Cal Murray, was not at the ing through the carts before tee-off and, looking game, but his son, Cam ’12, was there, but I don’t Class of 1983: Mark Sykes, Danny Chu at all the young faces I didn’t know, I thought to recall him spouting a warning order or contact re(behind the VMI flag), and Trent Boggs myself, ‘Hell, I’m one of the old guys now. How port, for that matter. That’s all for now. We hope in Alaska. did that happen?’ It was so big that we played an to make it to Lexington for the Samford game so

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Class Notes eight-some, two teams of four. The other team was made up of guys from the Classes of ’13 and ’14. We didn’t win the tourney, but we showed the other foursome of youngsters how the Old Corps plus two sons roll and beat them! I talked to Scott Gines to congratulate him on his recent retirement. Niner says that he’s still going to work, but on his terms now. He and Ginger are enjoying their kids and grandkids, as well.” Skip, thanks for the comical update.

From Bryan “Binky” Henderson: “I had the great pleasure of seeing Malachi Mills while we watched our Keydets thump all over Mercer a few weeks ago. It was great to get to spend some time with Malachi and be able to enjoy a great game in a really nice stadium with perfect weather—plus only two hours’ drive for me from Albany, Georgia. Malachi’s son played and helped the Keydets on to victory. I introduced Malachi to my youngest son, John. I was immediately reminded of the civil engineering trip we took to Luck Stone during our days at the ‘I.’ After the long day of touring the plant, we boarded back to VMI, and I sat with Malachi and fell asleep on his shoulder. I was drooling, but Papa Bear Malachi let me sleep. I might be finally calling it quits on my career very soon. After nine years of active duty and 27 more working for the DoD, I have decided it’s time to focus on other talents. No date yet, but I’ll keep you posted as this develops.”

Steve Hodak provided this note: “I completed 40 years of government service Sept. 2, 2021, of which 32 years were at NSWC Dahlgren, Virginia, and eight years active duty in the Navy. I had some health issues directly related to the Pfizer shot (induced AFIB, had to go get shocked, and had a stent placed in my right coronary artery, all in two months). I hate COVID-19. I’m planning to retire in three years, two months, and six days. Let’s see if I can make it that far. Three criteria: My health is good; my work is fun, exciting, intriguing, challenging; and I feel like I am making a valuable contribution to my team and the Navy. Any one of those goes south, and I’m pulling chocks and chains!” Steve, achieving 40 years of government service is quite an accomplishment; thanks.

Phil Hubbard provided me a brief note which said, “My wife and I finally got out of Virginia Beach and went to Daytona Beach to visit my daughter. She is in chiropractic school at Palmer in Port Orange. Sure is nice being on the beach in beautiful weather the end of October.”

Our Coastie BR Joe Leonard sent an email

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Class of 1983: At lunch in Akron, Ohio, are (back row) Mary and Steve Amato and (front row) Tracy and Lionel Urquhart.

Class of 1983: A medical technician and Marty Curry preparing for surgery.

Class of 1983: Vicki and Chris Caudill at Mount Rushmore in summer 2021.

outlining his latest endeavor. “Steve, I was redeployed in August from California, where I was managing portions of an emergency intake site for unaccompanied children crossing our Southern border to Northern Virginia to help with a similar site for the incoming Afghan evacuees, all courtesy of BR Mark Pappas. We have since transitioned to a project that reunifies these evacuees (Afghans and American citizens) with baggage that we separated from them. To share the wealth, I also have retired U.S. Air Force Major General Mark Hicks ’86 and retired U.S. Army Colonel Mark Cheadle ’90 also on this project. I also managed to take my niece, Erin ’26, down to the Institute for an open house to help her decide on whether to attend. While there, I ran into BRs Doug Wainwright, Jaime McDonald, and Scott Horan.”

Whitney Owens dropped a message stating, “At the end of July, I went with J.C. Miers ’84 out to the plains states for a week, ending up at the Alumni Association event at Fort Robinson, Nebraska. We had a great time—Mount Rushmore, Devil’s Tower, the Crazy Horse Memorial, Deadwood, Fort Fetterman, Little Big Horn Battlefield, Fort Casper, Fort Laramie, and finally Fort Robinson. Had a great time! I’ve always been interested in the Indian Wars, and the talk Colonel Gibson ’77 gave on Carter P. Johnson [’875] was outstanding.” Glad to know you represented ’83 on this trip, Whitney.

Duane Padrick is progressing well with his chemotherapy treatments. His oncologist extended Duane’s treatment several more months with additional sessions, and he successfully completed them. Please keep Duane in your prayers as he continues to battle medical challenges.

Lynn Seldon provided this link: cadetnewspaper.com/news/126/tailgating-at-vmi-marchingcadets-bagpipes-lots-of-gung-ho-spirit/. “It’s an updated reprint of a feature I did many years ago for Tailgater magazine. It ran this fall in the revived Cadet, which I often wrote for as a cadet and which I attribute to the start of my journalism career (including selling my first travel stories to Stars & Stripes) while stationed in Germany after graduating from VMI.” Thanks, Lynn, for the feature on ’83’s tailgating led by tailgating commander Cal Murray.

Mark Sykes and Danny Chu visited Trent and Sheri Boggs in Alaska. Mark wrote, “Hey, Steve, BR Boggs was an outstanding wilderness guide and host for Danny’s and my two weeks Alaska

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Class Notes visit. We kayaked in Ocean Bay, fished for spawning salmon, and hiked numerous mountain trails.

Saw moose, grizzly bear, black bear, Dall sheep, and spectacular mountain vistas. Trent and Sheri have built a beautiful home in Soldotna where we stayed for one week. On the second week, Trent took us on a road trip in their RV to Denali. Kim and I soon headed to the beach and then Pittsburgh for vacations. I will contact you when we return to schedule a get-together.” Thanks, Mark.

In a short email, Doug Urbanek informed me, “I saw Doug Wainwright in July when I was returning from a Federal Emergency Management Agency deployment to Kentucky. FEMA had me in Louisiana before, during, and afterward for Hurricane Ida, and now I’m in D.C. for Operation Allies Welcome. I stopped in Lexington and overnighted there, and I even took a walk on campus and down to the Maury River.”

Doug Wainwright provided a car racing update featuring Charlie Luck. “Hey, Steve and Mary, Charlie Luck has kicked butt in the GT America racing circuit. He won the Master’s Class and the Overall Class, clinching both wins before the final race. Winning the overall class means he beat everyone. He broke all kinds of records because it has not been done before. See the video at gtamerica.us. He gets good coverage throughout the race the end of the video (58-minute mark) has an interview and excellent film of the awards.”

Doug, a great job reporting.

BRs, stay safe, be healthy, take care, and God bless you all!

1984

Class of 1984: Members of the Fratelli club gather at their Smith Mountain Lake headquarters (casa Coceano) to enjoy VMI football and appropriate refreshing beverages. Pictured are Anthony “Gus” Agostinelli, Barry Coceano, and Greg Cavallaro.

Class of 1984: Sam Browne and Bob Doyle.

Bill Janis

Sitting down to write these notes, I had hoped to open them in customary fashion with some modestly humorous anecdote or observation. Given the sad tidings, alas, instead of my muse, I hear the “stern daughter of the voice of God” calling.

It is my sad duty to inform you all of the untimely and unexpected passing of Matt Garten.

I received a call in October from Hal Hamner, who had been contacted by Matt’s sister, Jane Garten. I spoke with Jane, who told me Matt had fallen and broken some ribs and had been hospitalized as a precaution for what they believed

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Class of 1984: John Karafa, Curt Hinton, and Tom Anthony share a little gemütlichkeit (und bier) at Oktoberfest on Siesta Key.

were only minor complications. After several days in the hospital for observation, Matt began to experience slight discomfort and increasing difficulty breathing which ultimately led to his death.

Because we were both Company E rats, Matt was one of the first friends I made in barracks.

After graduation, when we were commissioned in the U.S. Navy, we rented a house together with Mike Efremov for about eight months while we were in flight training in Pensacola, Florida.

Born in Boston but raised in Lynchburg, Matt had a brilliant intellect, a rapier wit, and a wicked sense of humor. His eclectic tastes in music, (from Echo and the Bunnymen to The Grateful Dead), movies (“Repo Man” and “Apocalypse Now”), clothing (knee-length board shorts and bright red wrestling shoes he’d bought at a local thrift store), drink (gin gimlets and Carlo Rossi Paisano), and food (pretty much anything, anytime, anywhere) were a constant source of enlightenment and entertainment. Matt was far too silky-smooth and sophisticated for Lynchburg—or Lexington, for that matter.

Upon learning of Matt’s passing, dozens of brother rats contacted me to express their shock and sadness and share their memories of Matt. Jim Kenkel wrote: “This is devastating news. Matt and I were roommates in 492 the first couple of days of cadre until I got shuffled down to room 488. Anyway, I still remember vividly how in the middle of our first night, Matt and I both decided our bladders could not wait until morning, and we finally decided we had to go to the sinks, which were way down by the sally port between Old and New Barracks. (No one had told us yet about the in-room urinal). We had been given our first straining lesson at the Cocke Hall sweat party earlier that first night, so this was our very first time straining on stoop alone. We always remembered to each other later that we never again strained as hard as we did that first time on the stoop alone. At zerodark-thirty. When there was absolutely no one else awake in barracks. What silly rats! This hurts particularly because I was just messing around with the VMI app on my phone earlier this week, and I noticed that Matt was just up I-95, with an address near the Fairlington neighborhood in Alexandria, and I thought to myself I should reach out to my old cadre roomie ‘someday,’ so tempus fugit. Memento mori.”

Jim’s remarks are a reminder to each of us that, at our age, if there is a brother rat you’ve

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes been meaning to call for far too long, you cannot afford to wait until “someday” to reach out to him. Call him today!

Please join me in praying that our loving God grant our brother Matt Garten eternal rest, make perpetual light to shine upon him, and count him among the flock of those He has chosen. Please also pray for all his family, that God grant them consolation and peace.

One brother rat who has been approaching “classmate outreach” in a thorough, systematic, and peripatetic fashion lately is Curt Hinton.

Curt and Una’s nomadic adventures were first reported in these notes in February. Since then, they’ve been all across this great wide country and were recently spotted in Sarasota, Florida.

Tom Anthony wrote: “Here is a picture of the Oktoberfest party in Curt’s RV park. Good German food in a tiki pavilion.” Curt wrote: “John and Kimberly Karafa were down here for their eighth wedding anniversary, and it was a great

Class of 1984: Clay and Andrea Goss with their oldest daughter, Parker, visit with Bob and Karen Doyle on game day.

Class of 1984: The class made a good showing to celebrate the life of our brother rat at a memorial mass for Matt Garten Nov. 19, 2021. Pictured are Mark Krajewski, Bill Seaver, Bob Doyle, Alex Mason ’85, Jeff White, Hal Hamner, Clay Goss, Wilson Enochs, and Mike Locher.

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opportunity for us all to hook up. We watched VMI beat Chattanooga 37-34 and put a dollar up on the ceiling in memory of Roland Staiano and Kevin Sample at the Siesta Key Oyster Bar, Roland’s favorite spot here in Sarasota.” Siesta Key also just happens to be Tom Anthony’s “southern command” during the colder months.

In response to my homage to his father, the late Lt. Col. Henry Foresman ’41, in our last edition, George Foresman wrote: “Your words rekindled great memories. Imagine the challenge to sit through the Buna-Gona Pass lecture in Colonel Wilson’s class (while trying not to fall asleep), after having heard it in the Foresman dining room in Lexington with countless BRs of my brothers (’76, ’77, and ’83) over the preceding 10 years.

I know I heard it more than 100 times at those Sunday dinners, and Miss Helen (my mother) probably 1,000. But you know Bill, my dad’s ‘war stories and other lies,’ as he affectionately referred to them, never got old. When he told the stories, his eyes twinkled with a sense of duty, patriotism, and a genuine love for America. It’s a characteristic of America’s veterans. Dad did not tell the stories to glorify war, but rather as a salient reminder of just how awful military conflict is for human beings.”

George went on to update me on his life and work at the Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at Mister Jefferson’s University in Charlottesville and to report: “I was accosted on Route 29 just north of Charlottesville several months back. Accosted may be overly harsh.

It was a Sunday morning, and I was headed to Dulles to catch a flight. I noticed the couple in the car next to me was making incessant hand gestures and blowing their horn. As we rolled to a stop at the traffic light and the passenger window on the other car descended, I was prepared to be admonished for my driving. Alas, it turned out to be Jim Kenkel and his wife headed back to Stafford. It was a delightful but way too short 45 seconds catch-up session. Chalk one up for VMI license plates and stickers.”

I seem to remember that, about 20 years ago, as I was driving at precisely the posted speed limit in the roundabout on Route 20B South in Gordonsville, that I was pulled over by an unmarked car with lights and sirens driven by the director of emergency services for the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Hon. George Foresman. We stood on the right-of-way talking for so long that an Orange County sheriff’s deputy stopped to ask

if George needed assistance taking me into custody!?! Chalk one up for VMI license plates and stickers indeed!

Finally, since Rose Ann and I moved to Florida in 2018, between travel restrictions, lockdowns, caring for an elderly parent, and work, it has been a challenge getting back to Lexington for a visit.

That’s why I am especially thankful to each of you all who have enabled me to vicariously experience VMI football this fall, if only virtually.

Several brother rats have thoughtfully paused to text and share the good times with me each Saturday, and while the texts of these messages are mostly unprintable on these pages, I have included some of the photos with these notes. Wherever we gather, whether at a Parade Ground tailgate, in a bar on Siesta Key, or in a home on Smith Mountain Lake, whenever two or three of us meet, it is always festive and fun.

On that note, until next time, I’ll close by saying “Goodnight, Carl Romano, wherever you are!”

1985

Matt Daniel

Dear BRs, Friends, Family, and Engaged Spectators, Hey, I admit, I may have overdone the BR Brad Gerstbrein piece in the last issue. Please forgive, though it was kind of fun. Brad is a great sport.

VMI was heard from at a SeaBees Oktoberfest function in Jacksonville in, well, October. Featured in our photos are BR Mark “Action” Jackson; his pop, Alan Jackson ’56; and Scott Hurst ’88. The senior Jackson has recently moved to Jacksonville where he and Action are able to connect regularly. About two weeks after the photo, Mark drove up to Lexington, via Lynchburg (his daughter, Lucy, is a student at Liberty University and is an extremely talented vocalist) and stayed at Uranus and Suns Inc. (Kerr’s Creek, Virginia).

While Mark was up here, we stripped down to our underwear, rubbed deer urine under our armpits and behind our knees, gargled 18-year Macallan, and went deer hunting in Kerr’s Creek. We didn’t get nuthin’. But I’m sure it was my fault, as I insisted on applying Hai Karate aftershave because the musky deer spray made me sneeze. Oh, yeah, and I sneezed and coughed like an undisciplined

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Class Notes rock jump into the river, and all went toddler while up in the tree stand. stunningly—well, other than Scotty Plus, I was eating cinnamon and lost his top. T.C. Pully did the early brown-sugar Pop-Tarts while lookmorning Gauley trip (class 5 rapids: ing through my PlaySkool binoculars Wives weren’t up for suicide that earsearching for unsuspecting animals. ly in the morning) and got tossed out I wonder if Action will ever come of the raft once. The troupe headed back? Hope so. back to the cabin for snacks, cocktails, Here’s a feel-good entry that filled hot tub, s’mores at the fire pit, a quick me with pride. During this last trip to see the band at the lodge, back election cycle, Brother Rat Tracy to the hot tub, and more cocktails. A “MAGTF-man” Burke decided to go above and beyond by exercising his Class of 1985: ’85ers plus some 2014s at the New River Gorge in West busy and fun social Saturday evening. civic duty by running for local office Virginia, October 2021. Pictured are Ken and Charon Hirlinger, Jen- After Borny’s obligatory Sundaynifer and Dave Tingley, VMI 2014 and VMI 2014 fiancé and fiancée, late-sleep-miss-breakfast, the BRs (Borough Council) in the eastern part Mark and Ann Bornhorst, Rose Ann and George Halages, and Denise and their better halves took a 2-mile of Pennsylvania: Souderton. Soud- and Scott Vaughn. hike to the gorge rim to work off the erton, Pennsylvania, is sandwiched cocktails. They then distributed hugs, packed up, between Philadelphia and the Lehigh Valley, just and headed home. Success! All agreed that it was south of Quakertown, Pennsylvania. His intera relaxing and scenic weekend. It looks like it was view with his local newspaper spoke volumes some big fun in the big old New River Gorge. about the character of men that we were lucky Brother rats, I received news that Scott Vaughn enough to have as brother rats and is demonstra(and his brother Ed Vaughn ’83) lost their dad, tive of the critical thinking and leadership examBill Vaughn ’53. Please keep Bill Vaughn and ples that VMI produces. Funky as it was somehis family in your thoughts and prayers. times, VMI was and remains good and extremely That’s it, y’all; remain positive and keep the valuable, BRs. By the way, Tracy won his race. faith. Keep in mind that many good people are Congratulations, councilman! Class agent’s note: Class of 1985: Scott Hurst ’88, Mark “Acworking to help VMI. Way to go, MAGTF-man! You make us proud! tion” Jackson, and Alan Jackson ’56 in Yours in the Spirit of VMI, Congratulations, Souderton!

Jacksonville at a SeaBees function in OcMatt Daniel The George “Georgious One” Halages is featober 2021. tured in three major events this reporting period. scolded for drinking beer in line, no one seemed Rose Anne and George’s son was married in early October in a traditional Greek wedding. Con- to be concerned with their poundage. (The two gratulations to the new couple, John and Amy engineers talked about it and agreed that there was Clint Hubbard Halages, and congratulations to George and Rose a safety factor of at least 2.5—no problem. After slamming onto the platform numerous times on Anne Halages!

Next on the Halages-front, George and some takeoff, the guides let us know that the weight pals went hunting in Colorado and brought limit is not really an enforced regulation). Scotty Brother Rats, home a mule deer trophy. George tagged him V dropped his cellphone off the first platform, and This edition of the 1986 class notes is being from 180 yards with a .300 Winchester mag- Borny got a nice zipline tattoo (rope burn) on his submitted Nov. 15, 2021. num. Caught him right between the running wrist on the last run trying to disembark. All in After the rambunctiousness of the reunion at lights! Well, actually, George got him in the front all, it was a beautiful afternoon zipping through the woods; everyone had a great time. The zip- the end of October, I feel pretty sure that “no shoulder. One shot, and bang, he was down.

And finally, Mark “Borny” Bornhorst organized pers went out in town to the New Gorge Burrito shave November” is also coinciding with “for a BRs-and-better-halves glamping trip to the New Bar and watched the sunset over the valley as they the love of God, man, no more alcohol until River Gorge, West Virginia, in October. In at- stuffed their gullets with great food and pitchers February 2022!” for Stew Barnes, Al Comer, tendance were Dave and Jennifer Tingley, Scott of every beer they had on tap. T.C. Pully arrived and a lot of other BRs. After a few housekeepVaughn and wife Denise, George and Rose Ann late and joined for cocktails. They ended the night ing details, we’ll get on with a full after-action with a nice soak in the cabin hot tub. Saturday report.

Halages, Ken and Charon Hirlinger, and T.C. Here is a piece of info I missed including last Pully with a friend. After arriving and unpacking started with a bountiful breakfast buffet at the early Friday afternoon and having a few cocktails, lodge and then on to the river. Everyone managed submission, so we will lead off with it this quarter.

Gordon McKinley checked in from Loudoun the gang headed out for the zip line course. George to stay in the boat through all the rapids but took and Borny were concerned about the 260-pound a spill and a swim on one of the NRG’s famous County, Virginia. He is alive and well working weight limit restriction, but even after being rapids chutes. Scotty and Denise Vaughn did the for a government contractor (called Thundercat)

1986

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VMI Alumni Review

Class of 1986: James Agostini, Frederick Albrecht, James Ball, Stewart Barnes, Jeffrey Boobar, Paul Boos, Theodore Buczacki, Paul Burch, Eric Butner, Robert Cabell, Michael Calkins, James Chambers, John Chesson, Anthony Colletti, James Comer, Michael Corwin, James Daly, Michael Davis, Joseph DeKeyrel, Samuel Duerson, Emmet Gathright, Patrick Gill, Steven Gray, David Grimm, Stephen Hall, Scott Harbula, John Hart, W. Hayes, Kurt Hedberg, Stuart Heishman, Troy Heskett, John Hicks, Anthony Hirtz, Daniel Hooker, Robert Hubbard, Jamie Inman, Ronald Jaworowski, Timothy Keilty, Cyrus Kump, Franklin Ladson, George Mason, Robert Mason, Andrew Mason, Ronald Mays, Joseph McCloskey, Todd McCullough, James McDonald, Tomas McHugh, James McKinley, Robert McManis, David Miller, Daniel Monahan, David Moore, Robert Nussey, Gordon Poindexter, Kenneth Powell, Robert Rainer, Robert Reynolds, Charles Schoen, David Sheckells, David Shin, Timothy Spivey, Cameron Stephens, John Stevens, Edgar Talbott, Stephen Thacker, Clayton Thomas, Joseph Thompson, David Wagner, Arthur Whittaker, and Roy Woolwine.

Class Notes

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Class Notes and in charge of mobility solutions, primarily supporting the Department of Veteran Affairs hospitals nationwide. BR McKinley has been married to Linda for 20 years, and they have two sons, ages 17 and 15. The youngest McKinley is playing rugby. In May, they had a match in Richmond and Gordon was able to get together with Andy “Grape Ape” Mason and Brett Hayes who came to the match. Afterward, they went to Upper Shirley Vineyards (owned by Tayloe Dameron ’85) and had lunch on the river at their restaurant. Solid update, Gordon; and on behalf of the Class of ’86, we propose Linda for sainthood or at least recognize her as a martyr who took one for the team. And by the way, your new nickname is “Thundercat.”

Via LinkedIn, we have an update for Wayne Mason. In the fall, Wayne celebrated one full year at Walter Oil and Gas Corporation as operations systems manager. I think I speak for all of us when I say to Wayne, “BR, do whatever you can do to bring back the $2.15 per gallon gas!”

A good thing happened in October. The annual Frank Woolwine Golf Tourney was held near Richmond, Virginia. This tourney is in honor of Roy Woolwine’s son, Frank, who lost his life in a car accident when he was 16. The Frank Woolwine Foundation seeks to turn a tragedy into a positive by telling Frank’s story to teenagers in the hopes of raising awareness and preventing such accidents.

As a parent of a teenager a few years behind Frank, I can attest that the story resonates with youngsters.

Roy announced that they have just recently passed the $1 million threshold of raising money for “the cause.” The golf outing is their main fundraiser of the year and well-supported by VMI alumni in general. Sponsors and/or players from the Class of 1986 included Jay Ball, Stew Barnes, Mike Colletti, Al Comer, Wayne Fuller, Clint Hubbard, Tim Keilty, Rob Mason, Mark Muldowney, Jon Moody, and Jeff Morgan. Other guys from our era included Spencer Williamson ’85, Mark Williams ’85, Kemper Wharton ’84, Bill McCarthy ’87, Matt Morgan ’87, and “Frank-not-Tom” deVenoge ’88. It is a most worthwhile cause and always a good time. More info may be found at thefrankiechallenge.org. Get your name on the list to participate next year.

Well, the 35th Reunion is in the books. We stayed with the same format we’ve used in the past. Friday night was barbecue, brews, and our house band, The Strain featuring Sammy Shako (Paul Boos, Dave Grimm, Tony Hirtz, Marty Mason, Rob Mason, Dave Miller, and Steve Grudi). The

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barbecue was supplied by Hogback Mountain BBQ, and they were fabulous. Sammy and the boys did their usual kick-#@$ show—complete with some guest vocalists (Mustang Sally, aka Colby Keilty) on a song or two.

We had invited and were pleased to have a few stalwart members of the Class of 1985 join us: Joe Irby ’85 from the VMI Foundation and Maj. Gen. and Mrs. Cedric Wins ’85, who were able to stop by later and grab a bite to eat with us. It’s nice to see “the supt” on a purely social basis, and we hope he was able to relax among friends and enjoy a respite from the demands of his position.

In particular, it was nice to meet and enjoy some conversation with Mrs. Cassandra Wins.

The Hogback Mountain BBQ guy came from having a townie connection in Todd McCullough.

Todd and Donna moved back to Lexington a year or so ago, and Todd had met the Hogback Mountain BBQ guy through Todd’s “part-time-get-outof-the-house-so-Donna-doesn’t-kill-him” job. I can’t say enough about how good was the chow, the service, and the price; not to mention how nice the people were. Thanks, BR McCullough, for coming through for us on that one.

The stocking of the hospitality suite at the hotel was ably handled by Scott (and Tyra) Wagner, who did his usual bang-up job. BR Wagner made sure we had plenty of beer, soft drinks, water, liquor, mixers, and accompanying snacks.

Moreover, he made sure the drinks were cold and readily accessible for anyone who needed liquid sustenance at any time. A mere thank you seems inadequate to such a herculean task, so I will speak for all of us in publicly thanking Wags for his superb effort and his service to the class. It should be also mentioned that Paul Burch gave great assistance with an extra cooler the size of a Company C coffin, as well as making a couple of liquor and/ or ice runs over the weekend. Thanks, BR Burch!

The Holiday Inn Express proved to be adequate (although a bit overpriced for Lexington) as a headquarters hotel. The rooms were largely comfortable, and although there were varied reports of a dog in the hotel barking through the night, it was probably just Troy Heskett and his band of merry men who were holding forth in the hospitality suite like old hounds barking at the moon. Troy made it a personal mission to be sure that Scott Wagner’s efforts were acknowledged and fully appreciated; Troy came to the suite early and stayed late. Other stalwarts who made full use of the hospitality suite included Mike Chapman; Joe DeKeyrel, who is

always up for a party; John “I’m a judge but don’t judge me” Hart; Gordon “I’ll go to VMI for two years but then I’m going to North Carolina State” White; Rob Mason, who was carrying the honor of the Sammy Shako group until the wee hours; and Jon Moody, who has a good time wherever he is. These guys formed the nucleus of a new group called “the closers,” who spent the bulk of the weekend in the suite and some of whom were at the suite to the very end. (Interestingly, a guy working at the hotel said he was W&L Class of ’86 and had gone to high school with our very own Jim Dillon.)

Saturday saw the normal activities of picture, parade, Old Yells, tailgating, and a football game.

The Class of ’86 easily won the picture, parade, and Old Yells, and the Keydets were victorious on the gridiron over a gritty Samford University team.

There were numerous class tailgates so that no one went hungry or thirsty—a few of the boys may have even been overserved. After the ballgame, we repaired to the suite at the hotel for heavy hors d’oeuvres and more fellowship. Some folks went downtown for dinner and then came back for a nightcap later. It was as leisurely as walk-down SRC with hay-down/all-duty.

Steve Gray conceived and carried out a wonderful new tradition at this reunion by honoring our departed brother rats with a toast followed by the breaking of the shot glasses so those glasses might never be used again for another drink of any sort.

According to BR Gray, this is an old U.S. Air Force tradition to honor lost airmen. Though the Class of 1986 has been blessed in that our losses are less than many other of our peer classes, nonetheless, we have lost some memorable BRs and fine men. We pay tribute to Meade Edmonds, Andre Creel, George Varlas, Mike Northrop, John Butler, Gary Yap, Curry May, John Hairr, Doug Brennan, Mark Judd, and Bill Matt. It was a raucous and solemn tribute all at the same time.

Thanks, Steve, for the diligence of the effort and the warm thought behind it.

It is purely a judgment call, but if there was an award for going above and beyond the call of duty to attend the reunion, it should go to Terry McCartney. BR McCartney is, of course, a barrister in the New York City area and was on a business trip to the West Coast the week of the reunion.

Terry took the redeye flight out of San Francisco Thursday night back to the East Coast eventually winding up in Beckley, West Virginia (he owns property near there), and getting to McKethan

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes Park Friday night. Not only that, but he made a contribution to the hospitality suite with several bottles of his personal hooch. And I mean that literally, as Terry and his law partner have their own branded bourbon, McCartney and Stucky. There is a great story behind it, as Terry’s partner from Kansas City (Stucky) has some ties to a vodka distiller who was on the Kentucky bourbon trail and did some horse trading with a bourbon distiller who sent them a barrel—that’s right, a barrel—of bourbon in return for some vodka. Terry said the barrel equals about 30 cases of liquor, so they bottled it and put their own label on it. Pretty darn cool and made for a great bit of storytelling in the suite. BR McCartney’s old roomie, Dave Spears, was also present and accounted for. Dave has recently moved from the West Coast to Amelia Island, Florida, where he says he is retired. He still looks fit as a fiddle.

Speaking of looking fit as a fiddle, Ironman Louis Rucker appears to still be the man. But for some bad knees, BR Rucker looks like he could still more than hold his own knocking heads down on Alumni Field. When I departed the hotel Sunday, Louis was giving himself his own sweat party in the workout room at the Holiday Inn. Take it easy, big fella.

Louis’ old roomie, Tom McHugh, was looking good and seems to be aging gracefully. Tom has a successful insurance business initially in the northern Virginia/D.C. area but branching out toward Irvine, California. One of Tom’s sons is playing basketball at the University of Idaho. Go Vandals!

BR McHugh enjoyed his time around the sentinel box, and I think I saw him staring in the directions of the trunk rooms to see if they were open and he could get his stuff. That is a long-standing joke as the Company F cadre routinely told all of us, including BR McHugh, when the trunk rooms were open and we could get our things (to depart).

Never underestimate the power of peer pressure as Mikey Calkins got the word Wednesday that David Sheckells was coming to the reunion, so BR Calkins likewise hopped a redeye flight from Arizona to get back and make the room 112 contingent complete—BR Sheckells and Jay Ball were already there waiting on him. The 112 boys were going to stay in one room again for old times’ sake but were afraid they’d oversleep (again) and miss the parade (again), so they got two rooms.

The best-dressed award goes to Gordon Poindexter for sporting his custom red blazer replete

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with coatee buttons and sleeve adornment to include three gold class stripes. He said the custom stitchery cost more than the blazer itself. But it is boss. As Dave “Papa G” Grimm might say, “I’m just sayin’...”

BR Poindexter’s old roomie, Tripp Duerson, came in from Lynchburg and brought his relatively new bride, Gray, to meet all of us for the first time. I saw them briefly Sunday morning, so we obviously didn’t offend Gray or otherwise scare her away; she was there for the duration. But then again, Tom deVenoge and Pat Farrell were not there, so while the ruling on the field stands for now, it could be subject to further review at a future reunion. That is, if co-matriculants deVenoge and/or Farrell ever grace us with their presence.

Our favorite mixologist who moonlights as an eye doctor, Bob Rainer, brought his bride, Kirby, for her first foray into a VMI reunion. I think she liked us. BR Rainer helped bolster Scott Wagner’s efforts by making a liquor run of his own after the football game to introduce some south-ofthe-border flavor with some tequila. Wags made a conscious and concerted effort to not have tequila in the suite, as we knew that Scott Harbula and Marty Mason would be at the reunion, and while tequila mixes well with lime juice and/or ginger beer, it doesn’t mix well at all with BRs Harbula or Mason. Nonetheless, Bob brought the tequila and some fancy accouterments so that he could fashion some high-fallutin’ cocktails that can make you howl at the moon—or the big white telephone in your room if you over-imbibe.

If Ralph Frye ever offers you some of his homemade salsa, take him up on it. Not sure how someone of his demographic and from Pittsburgh, no less, became salsa king extraordinaire creator, but he did. And it is good medicine. Perhaps the potential for good salsa will entice Glen Ralston to visit from San Antonio and compare BR Frye’s salsa to the San Antonio types. Ralph’s alter-personality—DJ Riff-Raff—handled the sound duties for Sammy Shako Friday night.

Speaking of Scott Harbula, he was nursing a game leg (knee) but rallied to make it in from Pittsburgh by way of the Beaver Liquor Store.

Scott was pseudo-hero-worshipping author Dave Shin, as Dave has written an authoritative book on insights into the North Korean regime. They held a book signing in the hospitality suite. BR Shin is one of those quiet studs who simply excels at nearly everything he does. After a stellar Army career, he is in a new career in academia—noted by

his authorship of the book—where he is killing it.

Thanks to both BRs Harbula and Shin for continuing to make us proud.

The funniest story I heard all weekend was Ron Jaworowski’s tale of COVID-19 happy hours and how they inspired him to go on his own selfinduced 12-step program of landscape architecture and rebuilding his deck. It makes me laugh even typing about it. A close second would be Ted Buczaki and Paul Burch reminiscing about the “big boys” at airborne school after our 3rd Class year.

After being gone from us for about 25 years during his active-duty military career, Mark Black was amongst us again in back-to-back reunion appearances. BR Black has recently moved his employment from Fishburne Military Academy to Fork Union Military Academy. It was good to see him, and we can count him as one of the regulars now since he still lives close by. At Fork Union, Mark has at least one friendly face on the faculty in the person of Dave Wallace. Dave retired from his law enforcement career and is now a member of the English department faculty at Fork Union Military Academy. Just to carry it a bit further, Fork Union is the alma mater of Matt Anderson, Chris Poague, and Frank Clark. There may be other BRs who attended FUMA, but those are the ones I know about. Any others?

Speaking of guys who have been gone a while, it sure was good to see Dave McCarthy and Mark Hicks floating around. I saw Dave briefly at the parade; he has a son in the Corps and no doubt spent time catching up with him. BR Hicks was all in and was a fixture in the hospitality suite. He is still living in Florida but expecting to move back to the D.C. area in a year or so. In one summer of the summer scholars sessions back in 1985, BR Hicks lived with Eric Butner and me; we spent a lot of time at Goshen that summer. The grades at the end of the summer reflected it sure was a good time.

My old year-round roommate from 1983-86, Eric Butner, and his Ring Figure date, now bride of 35 (gulp) years, Carrie, were present and accounted for, fresh off their duties as parents of the groom, as one of their three sons got married about two weeks before the reunion. They are living well in Dayton, Ohio; no word on any stops on the bourbon trail as they made the trek across Kentucky to get to the reunion. Speaking of Kentucky, Mike Necessary represented the Bluegrass State and made the trek from Lexington, Kentucky.

The Charlotte, North Carolina, ’86 contingent/

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Class Notes energy sector was powered up and well-represented by the pride of Piedmont Gas, Ronnie Mays, and the pride of Duke Power, Stu Heishman. Hitching on from nearby Sumter, South Carolina, was Frank Ladson, who does admirable work with the local JROTC program. We didn’t even notice that George Sheild and Jim Radle weren’t there. (Yes, we did.)

Jon French is in the midst of establishing his own healthful and pleasant abode in Lex-Vegas. Jon is still on the faculty of the Air Force Command College in Alabama but is able to work remotely and is building his retirement house in Lexington. Note for the future and file that nugget under “places to stay in Lexington,” just in case Jeff Boobar forgets to leave the key under the mat at casa Boobar and/ or the McCullough cabin somehow gets filled up.

BR French reunited with our favorite pharmacy professor and trail runner, Ed Talbott, along with the Martinsburg, West Virginia, flash, Mike Davis, who already has a jump on “no shave November.”

Speaking of Jeff Boobar, and I think I have this correct, but he and Dave Whittaker represented their old roomies well but spent much of the weekend answering questions regarding the whereabouts of Mike “Groucho” Grochoswki, Tom McGinnis, and Joe Ruf. It would probably be easier on everyone if those guys would just come out with their hands up and turn themselves in. Jeff is fully retired from the Drug Enforcement Administration and now VMI. He and Audrey plan to continue living in Lexington. (Remember the key under the mat, Jeff.) BR Whittaker surprised everyone when he left Surprising Suffolk for points westward near Clarksville and Buggs Island Lake/ Lake Gaston/Kerr Lake, depending upon where exactly he lives.

Along those same lines, reunion mainstays Cy Kump and David Moore were joined by Mike Huffman this year while the three of them worked the crowd looking for Scott Hunter and Jim Urie.

Cy is still rebuilding old people in the orthopedic surgeon business (he did a fair amount of consulting with BRs over the weekend), and Dave is still running the MO-CO-STO (Moore’s Country Store) convenience store empire. In a small world note, BR Moore and Al Comer have become neighbors at Smith Mountain Lake. Dave’s old Rustburg High School chum, Dale Powell, made the trip up from North Carolina for the second reunion in a row. Dale is looking good, and we hope he stopped off in Concord, Virginia, for a visit while he was in the Old Dominion.

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Maybe he’s on the “every 10-15-year plan” or something, but the occasion of the 35th Reunion brought Kurt Hedberg back to post. Either that, or the statute of limitations has run out or there has been an otherwise changing of the guard among the Post Police and none of the new guys know about the legend of our BR Hedberg. After a long career as a Navy diver, explosives guy, and general hooliganism, Kurt is now in a relatively tame position as a beltway bandit—that is, tame outside of the daily traffic around said beltway.

Emmet Gathright had a tough go as he was socializing, eating, and drinking enough to cover for Jeff Maclay, Dion Scaglione, and J.J. Walker. It must be something about that Gold Coast corner of barracks, as Chip DePasquale was upholding the honor of his MIA roommates, Steve Anderson, Pat Farrell, and Jim Jenkins.

It should be noted that Emmet and Chip both gave a valiant effort. (Class agent’s note: Apparently Jenkins has gone on the lam again, so we’ll be bringing back our old acronym: JJWT.) Speaking of guys being on the lam: Cameron Stephens. Ol’ Chuckles registered at the eleventh hour and showed up at McKethan Park with a motley crew that included Patrick Gill, Brett Hayes, Gordon McKinley, Andy Mason, and others.

Never underestimate the power of the infamous “seeing-eye dog,” as BR Stephens greeted me with a hearty handshake and a somewhat aggressive, “I’ve got your seeing-eye dog right here.” I didn’t nail down his home base but am sure it is somewhere in the south and believe he is still flying as a pilot—used to be Delta Airlines. Patrick Gill is alive and well in Virginia Beach, knee-deep in the commercial real estate business and looking like it agrees with him. Andy Mason is a svelte

Class of 1986: At the hospitality suite at the reunion are (from left) Dave Shin, Mike Chapman, Troy Heskett, Mark Hicks, Rob Mason, Clint Hubbard, Mikey Calkins, and Jon Moody.

250, which he attributes to a good woman and riding his bike 70 miles per week. BR Hayes is in the investment business in the Richmond area and stays interested in conservative politics.

Room 156 was back in full complement, and it was good to see that band back together—Fred Albrecht, Steve Hall, Robert Nussey, John Rapacki, and Dave Reynolds. BR Nussey parked in front of Smith Hall for well over the two-hour limit while he was warming up Friday afternoon at Devil’s Backbone Brewpub with Steve Thacker, Dave Reynolds, Ricky and Ann Chambers, and Cliff and Mollie Tinsley. BR Rapacki was sporting a pseudo-cowboy hat much of the weekend.

Not sure of the connection between a Massachusetts boy who now lives in Ohio wearing a cowboy hat, but maybe he was thinking a weekend with his old roomies could get as rowdy as a bull ride and brought the hat accordingly. Probably not a bad idea, actually.

By contrast, the co-matriculants of room 130 were missing completely; we missed Troy Lanier, Chris Peet, Tom Russell, and Jim Taggart. The only thing we can imagine is that Lanier heard about the drink tickets, thought there would limitations on his alcohol intake and then he poisoned the reunion well for his roommates, so they didn’t come, either. We can imagine rancher Tom Russell’s reaction to potential drink limitations, muttering a phrase that ended with “... and the horse they rode in on!”

Rick and Ann Chambers came in from Atlanta, and if you believe what you read on social media, I think they came up Wednesday to make it LSU-like where they start their tailgates in Baton Rouge Tuesday or Wednesday before the Saturday games. Geaux team Chambers!

By way of Sarasota, Florida—late of Atlanta— Mr. and Mrs. Charles Carroll Schoen IV attended the reunion festivities. Charlie still has some business interests in Atlanta but is able to attend to many duties via Zoom and found a better climate in which to spend his days. The other big news is that BR Schoen is a full-fledged published author of a series of children’s books about children with special needs inspired by his experiences with his son, Charlie. More info is available at adventureswcharlie.com. Well done, CCS IV. Speaking of Jimmy D.’s, Jim Daly and Paul Jarvis joined us Saturday where they rendezvoused with Joe McCloskey for the first time in about 25 or 30 years (I think). They had a nice time catching up during the parade and the ballgame, as well as

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Class Notes through the vmialumni.org site. We’ve at the suite in the evening. BR Jarvis ofhad a few emergencies lately, and when fered up that he’d like to see or hear more only one guy knows where you are, it about Jim Pingree. The word on the street makes reaching you difficult. is that BR Pingree owns a Dunkin’ Donuts Thank you to Molly Rolon for your franchise in Aruba. That’s right, doughnuts years of class notes babysitting. She was in Aruba. Aruba is now on the shortlist for the one who tried to make our pictures potential future reunion sites since a conwork when they were too small and spent tinental breakfast will be provided. What extra time inserting last-minute submissay, Jim? Can you scare up a place to stay sions after the bell. She’s left the Institute, for about 100 BRs? (One hundred being and we wish you well. the magical number who usually shows Scott Jewell has volunteered to take the for reunions.) Holding a reunion in Aruba lead for our Oct. 21-22, 2022, reunion. might even be enough to entice Kenny His latest page post: “Ashley Abernathy “Tadpole” Walpole and Roman Malavet into attendance—particularly if there are Class of 1987: Drew Campi, Bob Eckhoff, Bill Wanovich, and did a great job last reunion! I was a convention planner for 25 years and owned doughnuts to be had.

Adrian Garcia in Savannah, Georgia, in November 2021. my own convention planning business for Finally, Ranger Carl Gitchell is a lot of nine years. I’ll need some help, but I’ll step up to things, but you cannot say he is not a man of his the plate and be the lead guy for our reunion. OK, word. He missed the 35th Reunion, but we’re sure there, I said it! What is next?” Scott has extensive it was because he was holding to a vow he made experience and a happy heart, which will be needin spring 1985 when he openly declared to Bob ed during these tumultuous times. He needs assisCabell and Scott Wagner, “I’m never going to tance and someone nearer VMI than he or I would drink again.” We can only assume he avoided the be helpful/mandatory. If you hate Facebook, reunion so as hold fast to his pledge and not put join the club, but it’s where reunion information temptation in his path. To my knowledge, Scott will be posted, debated, tweaked, and last-minGitchell never made any such pledge, so we may ute adjusted. The only way we can mass email have to bone him for unauthorized absence. The everyone is through the Alumni Agencies, and ruling on the field is under further review. that takes a day at least because they review it.

Well, the deadline is here, so I need to wrap this You can’t copy the master list anymore. Get on up and submit it. Remember to keep in touch with our new and improved reunion Facebook page, each other; five years is too long to go between “VMI 1987 Reunion.” Same page, improved meetings. It was wonderful to see many BRs at the Class of 1987: Steve Cade and Manuel Melendez in St. Augustine, Florida, in name. It’s also the main place where pop-up 35th Reunion, but we also missed the guys who November 2021. mini reunions are planned and happen. weren’t there. Don’t make us come and get you Every time the word “reunion” is mentioned, because we have more and more retirees who have the raspy voice of Steve Cade barking, “Florinothing but time on their hands and a wife who da! Florida!” can be heard up and down the East wants them out of her house, “doing something.”

Coast.

Chasing down missing BRs would be a worthy Jim Bean (voted Alpha’s most likely to take endeavor. At the least pick up the phone and check a Disney cruise) sent a fishing picture. I finally in with a BR you haven’t talked to in a while. Take figured out a way to make small photos bigger, care, brother rats, and best wishes for 2022. so it should make it in here somewhere. Hopefully, they won’t demote these handsome boys to ’85 like they did last issue. It’s just jealousy.

Curt Schoonmaker Alpha is used to that. Jim writes, “Part of the Roanoke crew, Rob Goodwin and Dennis Butts, went south to New Smyrna Beach and to go fishing with Jay Nagle in early May. I made the I-4 drive from St. Pete to join the crew. Nagle caught the big one. We could have caught Update your contact information with VMI Class of 1987: Jay Nagle, Rob Goodwin, nothing and still would have had a great time.” please. You have an account. You may not know Dennis Butts, and Jim Bean in Smyrna November has been a month of get-togethers. it. It’s easy and is also where other guys look for Beach, Florida, in May 2021.

Seems like old guys prefer the South, just like you. Just the VMI family. Outsiders can’t search

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Class Notes Drew Campi, Bob Eckhoff, Bill Wanovich, and Adrian Garcia, who had a get-together in Savannah. When Bill got in the car, he thought he and Drew were just going out for their daily 18 and maybe some golf, but they continued from their modest abodes around Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, to meet “up from Florida” Adrian, and “in from Arizona” Bob and Deedra who flew to see their grandson. Much serious Institute business was discussed. Bill is still decompressing. Photo hopefully included.

Meanwhile in Florida, Steve Cade and Manuel Melendez met to drink large glasses of beer and eat something strange looking in that colander basket you’ll hopefully see on the table in front of them. Steve wants you to move to Florida. He’s in the finals for the tourism bureau 2022 “Florida Welcomes You” posters and emedia campaign. He posted, “Sorry I could not get north this past weekend with Adrian Garcia to visit a fellow civil engineer Bob Eckhoff, but I did find this guy. Great dinner with Manuel Melendez in St. Augustine.” Steve posted this during the dinner and will be surprised to read this, as Manuel slipped on some dark sunglasses and pulled out what Steve thought was a penlight, directing him to “look right here, ese,” then there was a strobe flash, and Steve was left alone with the bill and familiar confusion. Always good to see Manuel.

Our family continues to take hard hits.

Terrible news relayed by Warren Michelsen.

He wrote, “It is with a heavy heart I am reporting that Bill Davis’ wife, Donna, tragically passed last Sunday, Nov. 7, while on a business trip to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. She was with a group of women near the beach when a rogue wave caught her and pulled her out to sea where she drowned. I have spoken with Bill several times this week, and under the circumstances, he is doing well with his two children, Brittany and Chris ’16, by his side. Donna and Bill were high school sweethearts and had been married 31 years.” A memorial was held Nov. 20 in Williamsburg. We grieve with you, brother, and are sincerely sorry for your loss.

In the last year, we’ve had two BRs lose sons.

We have at least three BRs currently fighting different cancers. All are determined and resolved to persevere and are making progress to that end.

Join me in a prayer for us, our school, and our nation. All are wounded.

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1988

Ed Wetherell

I am happy to report that activity amongst BRs has picked up over the last several months. In June, I was able to get to Myrtle Beach to link up with the Tavenner crew: David Tavenner ’03, Jamie Tavenner ’91, Thomas Wetherell ’22, and Cloyd Tavenner.

In July, we had a class lunch in Fredericksburg.

Present were Chris Long, Wayne Sinclair, Andy

Tate ’92, Kirk Dewyea, Rock Keppeler, Jim Florio, Mike McGraw, me, Lew Sigmon, Drew McKone, and Derek McFarland. Chris retired from the Henrico County Police Department and is living in Richmond. Mike was in town visiting his daughter and traveling from his new home in Hawaii.

On July 4, I was able to hang out in Leesburg to have a couple of beers with Bill Cronenberg and Rock Keppeler while we enjoyed the town fireworks from my backyard.

In September, BR McFarland hosted a camping and shooting weekend at his place in Western Maryland. Present were Don Calder, Charles Nelson, Chris Starling, Dr. Sam Tate (Sam Tate’s dad), Kirk Dewyea, John Bordelon, Sam

Class of 1988: At a class lunch in Fredericksburg in July are (from left) Chris Long, Wayne Sinclair, Andy Tate ’92, Kirk Dewyea, Rock Keppeler, Jim Florio, Mike McGraw, Ed Wetherell, Lew Sigmon, Drew McKone, and Derek McFarland.

Class of 1988: BR McFarland hosted a camping and shooting weekend at his place in Western Maryland. Pictured are (from left) Don Calder, Charles Nelson, Chris Starling, Dr. Sam Tate (Sam Tate’s dad), Kirk Dewyea, John Bordelon, Sam Tate, Rich Stone, Bill Cronenberg, Ruger (Keppeler’s dog), John Keppeler, Derek McFarland, Bill Reagan, Drew McKone, Lew Sigmon, Jim Tuemler, Joey Swink, and Wayne Sinclair. In attendance but not pictured were Hugh Brien and Chris Hannum.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes cadet stories and toasted ‘Mother Tate, Rich Stone, Bill CronenI.’ Russ will be attending his 65th berg, Ruger (Keppeler’s dog), John Reunion next month! We are doing Keppeler, Derek, Bill Reagan, well down here in Florida. I work Drew McKone, Lew Sigmon, Jim (by day) as a defense contractor at Tuemler, Joey Swink, Wayne SinCentral Command and continue clair, Hugh Brien, and Chris Handrilling as a reservist at Marine num.

Forces Central Command. Time to A group of BRs and other alumni mount the sword soon, though; I’m attended the rugby match between getting a bit long in the tooth! My the USA National Team, Eagles, son, Sam, turns 6 in January and we and the New Zealand National are enjoying watching him grow.

Team, All Blacks, at FedEx Field My best to you and yours. RVM Oct. 23. The tailgating and comradand Semper Fi, John.” ery before and after the match was As always, I would love to hear a lot more enjoyable than the game from all of you! Please send emails itself, with the All Blacks scoring on nearly every possession and Class of 1988: In June, Ed Wetherell was able to get to Myrtle Beach to and pictures whenever you have an link up with the Tavenner crew. Pictured from left to right are David update or get together with BRs and routing the U.S. side 104-14. PresTavenner ’03, Jamie Tavenner ’91, Ed Wetherell, Thomas Wetherell ’22, other alumni. ent were Mike Starling ’92, Deffy and Cloyd Tavenner.

I hope to see many of you at our Mubangu ’01, me, Will Current lunch gatherings and in Lexington in the near fu’92, Phil Starling ’94, Drew McKone, Sam Tate, ture. Until then, stay safe, all the best to you and A.J. (John) Williams, and Andy Tate ’92. your families, and RVM! This fall, I have been able to connect with a few Ed BRs in Lexington. Ron Kindley and his wife, Laura, were in town visiting her mom. They recently moved to a beautiful house on the water in Hampton and are enjoying some boating there. I David A. Martin see Don Calder, Brian Durham, Eric Lassalle, and Pete McCrary and their families frequently when we are all in town visiting their cadets.

A few BRs were able to make it to the Institute Society Dinner. Ted Wagner, John Williams, Fall arrived in Ohio faster than Chris Ogden to a Frank DeVenoge, and I were able to connect and Class of 1988: Col. John Wright and Col. flash sale on ammo: We went from high 89 minus hang out for a while. Ted is still doing well, living Russ Wiltshire ’56.

19 to low 89 minus 59 within a day. With equal in Richmond, and working for SAP in the inforalacrity of all you math majors solvmation security world. John is living the temperature puzzle in the ing in Annapolis and is doing well first sentence, submissions to the with his own strategic communicanotes swamped my inbox this quartions company, Powell Strategies, ter like the BV flood of ’85. There’s and Frank is living in Richmond a veritable plethora of news to reand working for Harris Williams port, and it warms the cockles of my & Co. heart that we even had an unsolicBrother Rat John Wright checked ited submission for guest scribe! As in from Florida with this note: you may recall, as part of our ONE“Dropping a quick line to send in 989! initiatives, Nat Cross jumped the attached photo of Colonels John at the chance as the inaugural guest Wright and Russ Wiltshire ’56. scribe. The guest-gauntlet thus Russ and I attend the same church in thrown down, Kramer Reeves acSarasota, Florida, and discovered a cepted the challenge and exceeded couple of years ago that we are both Class of 1988: Pictured are (from left) Mike Starling ’92, Deffy Mubangu the just and right-Cross standard VMI grads. Recently, he and his ’01, Ed Wetherell, Will Current ’92, Phil Starling ’94, Drew McKone, Sam set by Nat. Kramer’s Pulitzer Prizewife, Margarete, graciously hosted Tate, A.J. (John) Williams, and Andy Tate ’92. worthy tale is below. Who else out us at their home where we shared

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Class Notes there seeks the coveted title of guest scribe? You could win a major award! Speaking of awards, we have some to bestow upon deserving BRs. Before we get to the guest scribe, in other news, I feel rudderless without my trusted sidekick, fellow Ohioan, roommate, and co-class agent Steve Chiles. In case you missed my Christmas letter, Steve is on sabbatical from class agent duties. I am happy to report that he has moved to an agent adjunct consultancy role and remains on my list for reunion guest speakers. It’s a very long list consisting of the following: Chiles. Steve might give a talk on success as a grandparent: He recently welcomed his first grandson into the world, Maverick Ryan Holland, born Nov. 4, 2021. That makes Maverick Class of ... 2044! Congrats to Steve. Great news. Any other provisional appointments out there?

Bob Bradford would be at the top of anyone’s list as a keynote speaker. Bob gets a speed bonus as the first BR to submit this quarter, truly setting the example for all you off-the-grid-slackers to emulate. In fact, Bob reports he is still at Fort Lee working for the Sustainment Center of Excellence. He works projects with Phil Raiford. Phil is an operational research analyst for Army Futures Command. Oddly enough, Scott Stables was in the same office with Bob and Phil on another project. Scott is also with Army Futures Command.

Bob “The Brow” also notes that he and his wife are doing great. Thanks for the great report, Brow.

Speed bonus carried with it an awards package, including VIP seating at reunion, free admission to the VMI Bookstore, and a tour of the Parade Ground hosted by Col. Mitch Fridley.

Tom Fanshaw also receives a ONE-989! award for photojournalism. Eighty-nine days out from his retirement, Tom sent a picture of his countdown calendar. When playing cards, Tom used to say he was a “force.” Indeed, for 28-plus years, he was on the force as a lieutenant with the Baltimore Police Department. We thank Tom for his dedicated service to the citizenry of Baltimore County.

Tom also received the coveted class agent influencer award, as Doc Martin took a page from Tom’s playbook, retiring from teaching foreign policy for DoD late January 2022 so he could focus solely on his class agent duties and drive to Alaska on class business to conduct a well-check on Brian Duffy. Thanks, Tom ... I think. Tom’s award package includes jump-the-line pass for him and Missy for the reunion mixer, a one-year exemption from guest scribe duties, 10% discount

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coupon at the VMI bookstore valid Jan.1-2, 2022, and VIP seating behind the rope at the reunion.

Mike Murray deserves a humanitarian award for his charitable work getting our friends out of Afghanistan. I don’t want to give away the rest of Mike’s story (spoiler alert) as we are working with the Review folks for a potential feature article on Mike and his work with Liberty Organization for Veterans and Emergency Responders (LibertyOVE.com) and RescueOps.org. In the interim, be sure to give those websites a look. And cheers to Mike: The ONE-989 humanitarian award includes a gift basket featuring Quinn Donovan’s 2022 sally-port wine, sure to be a fine vintage.

Quinn dropped a line to say his new house is complete, and now he can focus solely on doing holy work turning water into wine.

A few quick admin notes: I am looking for contact info on Jeff Joiner and Rob Kuhn. Email is the best way to reach me; I don’t do Facebook Messenger. Speaking of Facebook, the Class of 1989 (“VMI ’89”) page is a great way to stay in touch. Receiving awards for the most prolific VMI ’89 Facebook entries are Dave Clement, Brian Loughrey, Steve Boyd, Mack Carr, Derek McCown, James Black, Pete Lampman, and a litany of others. Finally, Steve Nezas manages the memorial flower fund; remember to reach out to him if the need arises: Keydet3@gmail.com.

And when you send pictures for the Review, they need to be over 1MB. Like your juicy USDA Grade A steak on Thursday nights at Crozet, the bigger the better.

Facebook, or whatever it will be called in the near future, is replete with yarns from football games past. Who knew the Keydets would have only their second winning season since JFK was president? At a late October game that was one for the history books in a 46-45 come-from-behind win, Ogden and Martin ran into Tom Inge, Tom Hernandez, Derek McCown and family, Jim Masella, Kent Doane, and a few others. Apologies if you were there and not mentioned. There were many distractions, as Kent Doane can attest; Kent compared cheerleading to wearing a shako.

Kent even held an impromptu audition for Tom’s guest during halftime as there was nothing else to do because McCown ran out of mixers. Not to be outdone, John Osborne, fresh from the local country club pro shop sale, proudly showed off his new hat. Headgear aside, scuttlebutt has it that a few of the rod and gun club members who were roommates might move to Lexington in the near

future. More to follow on that front!

That’s it from me, now on to guest scribe Reeves. Here is to a great 2022, ONE-989!

“July 2021. Floyd, Virginia. COVID-19 variants ramping up wildly in the southern U.S. didn’t stop a rambunctious (yet, vax’d) gaggle of VMI graduates from the Class of 1989 to gather in tribute to our national pastime, our revered and loyal guru Colonel Alan Barragona, the Blue Ridge Mountains, and each other. With wives, partners, kids, and friends—40 strong— at the annual Floyd wiffleball tournament July 25-27, 2021, we saw our largest turnout to date.

Starting on Friday night in Check, Virginia, at casa de Spence, Tim, Phyllis, Grey, and Henry hosted the group to an oyster shuck, sunset views across the hay fields, cool highland temps, and New York cocktails, coupled with exaggerated stories from barracks, pregame comradery, and pep talks in preparation for the big day to follow.

“Yes, the sixth annual Floyd wiffleball tournament was held at Angelo and Amanda Biviano’s magnificent farmhouse and field extravaganza in Floyd, Virginia, that Saturday. The brainchild of Norman ‘Bud’ Schmeling, (he of the Allen Ginsberg school of beat cadet poetry and of Victory Magazine) a match-up of skills honed after years of streetball from Brooklyn to Barcelona to backyards everywhere, the game was on, yet again.

“Schmeling led his team, the Brooklyn Poets, which included all-star center fielder and fastest man on the field Kramer Reeves; Dave Brown (VMI Hall of Famer for football), a hidden hitting power only recently revealed thanks to a Saturday breather he took from Floyd Fest being held simultaneously just down the road; Dubrow proved to be the Poet’s big slugger (and long-inning relief pitcher); George Bowles, the barrister, the chief, held fast at first base, errorless all day; the cagey lefty veteran hurler George “Mutt” Armbruster; Danny (he’s been to Afghanistan, twice, and around the world quite a few times, making the real difference); Dan Baker, along with his partner, Erin Fleming, playing inspired, smashing ball, closed out the roster for the Poets.

“Todd (Virginia Tech recruited him, full ride, but he chose VMI) Tilley (I still remember a couple of cornball 3rds stopping him and me on a Saturday night early our rat year as Todd was heading back to his room holding a sizzling pizza and ice-cold Coke. The 3rds tried to break him.

He’d have none of it. Eventually, they gave up and said, ‘You want to go, rat?’ Tilley calmly replied:

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes ‘That’s okay, sir, my pizza’s cold and my Coke is hot, so I might as well stay here with you all.’ This Captain T led the Floyd Homers to a near victory that included a star-studded lineup of Tim (medievalist) Spence and his bride, Phyllis Spence (the other barrister, representing her Davidson undergrad alma mater); Angelo (the Italian stallion and host) Biviano; Rich ‘Sparky’ Sparks; and Gary (the Flyin’ Hawaiian) Sabyan, along with a newcomer and most improved player of the weekend Steve (‘I do some drumming’) West, from a little known band called Pavement.

“A perfectly manicured, marked, and fenced field brought the ballpark to life, with real bases, strike zones, canopies, and coolers. The kids’ game started at noon with ages 8-18 playing a 7 versus 7 warm-up to get the crowd going.

Class of 1989: Tom Fanshaw celebrating 89 days until his retirement.

“The marquee adult matchup of the Brooklyn Poets versus Floyd Homers got underway at 3 p.m. under a highland mountain mist, a slight sun glare, and more adrenaline than a bunch of cadets just let out of confinement turned loose at Hollins on a Saturday night.

“Unfortunately for the Poets, an unusually lackluster pitching performance from Poet captain and star performer Schmeling allowed the Floyd Homers to take an early 6-1 lead backed

by Captain Tilley’s amazing pitching, hitting, and leadership, supported by Gary Sibayan and Phyllis Spence base running, Tim Spence, Rich Sparks, and Sibayan hitting.

“Yet, the Poets finally awoke and crept back, led by multiple base hits from Erin Fleming and Danny Baker, two RBIs by Schmeling, coupled with a last-minute slide at home by Kramer Reeves under a wicked throw by Todd Tilley that just missed an out, which set up the final, amazing play. Still down 6-5 in their last atbat, the Poets recovered finally as Dave Brown crushed a three-run home run just inside the left-field foul line to seal it. The Homers got one more in the bottom of the ninth, but it wasn’t enough, and the ball game was over. Final score: Brooklyn Poets 8 - Floyd Homers 7.

“Trophies presented, cocktails flowed, celebrations began, and the feast ensued. Many sliced flank steaks later paired with Italian Barolos, DJs spinning, kids dancing, the woods surrounding, the moon arriving, the glorious get-together slid into late-night rap sessions by the fire that eventually wore the aging warriors down into a dreamy, well-deserved, mountain air-filled sleep.”

Class of 1989: Attending the sixth annual 1989 wiffleball tournament, held at the home of Angelo Biviano, are Phyllis Spence, Tim Spence, Reese Kepler, Jojo Tilley, Todd Tilley, Augustine Biviano, Lydia Bivianio, Amanda Biviano, Angelo Biviano, Henry Spence, Sam Sparks’ friend, Sam Sparks, Rich Sparks, Grey Spence, Gary Sibayan, Max Schmeling, Wyatt Schmeling, Bud Schmeling, Andrea Helleybuyck, Dave Brown, Rachel Buell, Kramer Reeves, Ava Reeves, Amy Reeves, Lily Reeves, George Bowles, George Armbruster, Mimi Reeves, Kevin Guthrie, Steve West, Andra West, Erin Fleming, and Danny Baker.

2022-Issue 1

1990

Daren Payne

Greetings from Lex Vegas, everyone.

By the time you are reading this, we will be well into the Dark Ages and looking for that proverbial light at the end of the tunnel that signals the coming of spring—or you will be happily snowed in working from home in your Scooby-Doo pajamas!

We started off the reporting period with Dave Yockel reminding all of the 35th anniversary of our matriculation at VMI. Jeff Kaster was “still trying to memorize a ‘crowd of honorable youths’—you know, the thing” and moved to state “Bill Arnold for first VMI POTUS.” Lenny Carson remembered “that was a chilly rain on my bald dome. Who knew that 35 years later, I would still be bald?”

Kevin Hanford recalled, “Ah, yes, rain on my scalp for the first time and for me, unfortunately, not the last, as it is permanently scalp for me now.”

For those who may have forgotten, Rob Oviatt brought to mind the famed racquetball courts of which Neil Whitmore was kind enough to pass along a current photo for any who may have forgotten.

I also heard from Raynor Garey, Bill Gaspar, and Greg Hatchett, who opined, “This must be a sign that we are maturing! We are celebrating matriculation.”

Mike Mullori said he “was thinking the other day that the one thing I really liked about our time at VMI was that there was very little adult supervision. All the crap we did, right or wrong, good or bad, was mostly just dreamed up by 21-year-olds. Or at least it felt that way.”

Another reminder was John Hahn’s annual text reminding me of how long it has been since he, myself, Tim Haynie, and Mark Cheadle reported to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, for engineer OBC back when the Gulf War was raging in October 1990.

Matriculation this year saw BRs Mike Doczi, Arturo “A.J.” Johnson, Jim Manning, and Brian Tate and their families dropping off sons

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Class Notes to join the Corps and be “welcomed” by their cadre to the “I.” They will now join BRs Dickenson, Kavaz, Dave Rich, Mantz, Dave West, Hennigan, Cabell, Hanford, and Garbett with kids in the Corps. Tom Slater also reached out to me during matriculation from his home in Tampa to have me check up on a rat pitching prospect he’d steered toward VMI. Shortly after matriculation, we had the first home football game for your defending Southern Conference champion Keydets, and it was a 45-24 beat down of Davidson to start things off right on a great day with tailgating for the first time in almost two years. Among those in attendance for the victory were Sam Stocks, Pete Mantz, Kevin Hanford, A.J. Johnson, Kvasnicka, Mike Doczi, Barry Johnson, Greg Hatchett, the Williams twins, Buddy Garbett, Terrence Kerner, and Charlie Plageman. In addition to those at the opener, the homecoming game brought out Glenn Dickenson, Pablo Martinez, Mike Kemp, Don Bowers, Jim Manning, John Cabell, and Brian Tate for their first game of the season. They must have brought good luck because after a rough start, we turned it around in the second half to put a 31-23 win up over Wofford.

Game No. 5 of the season was down in Charleston for The Citadel. Greg Sandway let me know he was going to be on hand. “My wife and I are celebrating her 52nd birthday, believe it or not, in Charleston, and we caught the ZZ Top concert last night, which was excellent! I just purchased tickets from The Citadel this morning for the VMI section (visitors standing room only).”

Game No. 6 of the season was Parents Weekend, and we had one for the ages beating Chattanooga 37-34 in overtime. Among the BRs I know of present were the usual suspects from previous games, plus Dave Rich and Hunter Trumbo. The Parade Ground was closed, so we had a great tailgate set up by my office behind Mallory Hall. The next home game was even better, with your Keydets coming back from a 21-point deficit to defeat Samford in a 46-45 shootout and maintain their No. 18 national ranking in the polls. At that game, in addition to the usual crowd, we were joined by Hal Jones from Goochland; Dave Ratliff who came down off the mountain outside Roanoke; Mark Dick in his first appearance of the season; former Keydet great John Washington, who traveled all the

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way from Pennsylvania, and Carlos Fernandes, who also joined Glen, Dave, and me for the SoCon championship cross country race before the game (we were watching, not participating). Hal and I even had the added pleasure of trying to fix Doczi’s jeep in the football parking lot following the game (we were not successful and surrendered to calling a towing company, much to our chagrin).

Todd Northrop, checking in from down South, reported, “I just finished reading the class notes and catching up on everyone. Still down here in south Georgia doing the Burger King thing. Need to get up there for a game this fall.”

Also from Georgia, I heard from Chip McWilliams who is hunting and running New Market Arms when not practicing law. Chip reported he’d been in touch with his roommate, Taylor Farmer, from Oklahoma recently. Further south from Arkansas, U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Dave Walsh reported in late August that he was off to Afghanistan to support the evacuation of noncombatant Americans. Dave pilots transport and cargo-type aircraft, so his services were much in demand.

Also from the mid-South, Cal Lloyd from Chattanooga wrote, “Hope you are well! You seem to be based on all the updates and class notes, which are greatly appreciated, by the way! Hey, do you have an email address or contact info for Scott Meade? Romeo Battery 5th Battalion, 10th Marines is having a little reunion, and he was part of that unit with me in the early ’90s. Actually, he was there before me. Anyway, trying to look him up and include him!”

I also noted that Mike Kimberly is now out of the military and residing in the DFW Metroplex where he recently started work as principal engineer-technical project manager for Verizon. Great job, and welcome back to the continental U.S.!

Elsewhere in Texas, Andy Conville got a new job being promoted to director of aftersales, parts, and service at Mahindra Ag North America in Houston.

Dave Kaulfers wrote from California, “All good out here in the Bay Area. Had dinner with Laurence Farrell and Weedon Gallagher a few weeks ago. Weed was in town to see a relative.”

Further south in California, Matt Hemenez let me know he was coming to Lexington for the VMI board meeting in late October and was actually able to house sit for me for a couple of days.

Also in California, I heard a couple of times

via email from Sal Bora, who still resides in the Signal Hill area.

Dave McGraw also checked in around this time from Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, since the election was getting close; he wanted to offer up his services as a Gettysburg Battlefield tour guide anytime you’re in town.

A certain photo shared by one Dave Yockel featuring one Scott Spellmeyer in Afghanistan prompted several responses such as this from Dave Amsden: “Thank God Scott is OK after years of service. Knowing him, he likely put himself in harm’s way too many times to count.

Looking forward to seeing Spelly’s retired star someday at the ‘I.’ Over ’n out from Cape Cod, Massachusetts.”

Brad Steverson commented that he “downloaded the book that Scott Spellmeyer is in. It’s a very good read to me. Pretty cool one of our BRs was first in Afghanistan. Also found out he was in Mogadishu as a lieutenant in ‘Black Hawk Down.’ I didn’t know that either. Pretty cool.”

Speaking of Spellmeyer, I got the note and picture of him and Tripp Anderson when they completed their Ironman 70.3 event in September. Scott said: “Daren, we still got it. Well, sort of. Sam Anderson and I completed our third 70.3 in Augusta Sunday wearing our Ranger regiment colors.”

Had a nice visit with Chuck Ellis, who along with BRs Kerner, Tony Baker, Plageman, Bryan Haslam, Stocks, and Ramon Williams, was in town for the Institute Society Dinner on Founders Day. One of the major highlights of the weekend was the presentation of the prestigious and rarely awarded VMI Distinguished Service Medal to Sam’s boss, Bill Paulette ’69, and Bryan’s uncle, Dr. Charles Bryan ’69.

Bryan continues his work as a “gas passer” in the hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, while Chuck has officially retired from both the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and U.S. Marshall Service and keeps busy with his three kids still at home in Guam. Chuck is routinely in touch with Erroll Martin, who is in Quantico with the FBI Academy; Donnie Roberts; Travis Mayberry; and Brig. Gen. Bill Bowers, who he recently met up with in Guam.

I had a couple of somber notes to pass along, unfortunately. First of all, Glenn Dickenson’s mother, Sue, passed away, and her will stipulated that she wanted his BRs to carry her down the

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes aisle for the last time. Tony Baker, Dave Ratliff, Doug Spitz and I, along with Glen and his son, John ’20, were privileged to serve as pallbearers.

We were also joined by Paul Kricorian, who is still flying planes, witty as ever, and living near Richmond and Glenn’s rat, Scott Campbell ’93, who came from his job with NASA in Houston.

We also received a nice phone call from Dan Caine, who was unable to attend the ceremony and remains with the Air Force as a major general working in the Pentagon.

On another sad note, I had to report the death of John King’s son, Harrison, after a three-year bout with cancer. His son passed in November in the Atlanta area and had been a student at Auburn University. Garrett Thompson reported that representing the class at the services to support John and his family were Chip McWilliams, Rob Hays, Dave Amsden, Tony Zang, Andy Sewell, Tom Bailey, Fritz Schricte, Rev. Matt Henning, Kenny Robinson, and Paul Holland.

Finally, I believe many are aware of the medical issues involving Mint Ralston that have left him disabled and with very little motor skills.

He required special care above and beyond what Veterans Affairs and insurance could cover. We were only made aware of this need when several BRs found a GoFundMe page for him. Within eight hours of shooting that message out to the class, we raised over $10,000 in support of Mint.

Within a week that total, that I could confirm, was over $20,000 spread among nearly 100 of us. Of course, there were literally dozens of “anonymous” gifts that could have been from our class, which I could not confirm. Overall, the campaign surpassed the initial goal of $100,000 within days and ended up with right about $200,000 that was used for installing various systems and alterations to the house that Mint will need now that he’s moved back home. In addition to the financial support, Pete Finan was trying to get a delegation of U.S. Marine Corps BRs and friends to make a visit down to Charlotte to see Mint, and Brian Tate let me know that the Charlotte Chapter had plans to help out Mint’s family with things around the house and other stuff that may require assistance.

Again, I’m so very impressed with the way our class has come together in support of each other at the most trying of times. You all never fail to amaze me in your responses to any need, great or small, and it says volumes about the bonds we forged over the years.

2022-Issue 1

1991

Chuck Story Chris Edmonston

I’m writing this with howling wind and crazy waves crashing the shore in front of my house— the Dark Ages are here! Going to try something new for notes—a little bit of a shallow-depth interview with a couple of our BRs. Hard to believe it’s been over 30 years since we were together on the hill, and I’m always curious to see what everyone is doing.

To that end, I had a nice chat with Brian Stone the other day. He’s now retired from the Air Force and is working for the University of Georgia.

When we were cadets, Brian was in Company H and ended up being a platoon lieutenant 1st Class year. He started off as an econ major, then switched to international studies—’91 was the first class that graduated with that degree—which is now one of the more popular majors, I believe.

I asked him what brought him to VMI. He related that he went to an alumni function as a high school senior and enjoyed talking with the alumni. That led to him going on a visit to VMI, which occurred not long after ’90 broke out.

(They should still be in.) He was able to get an academic scholarship from VMI, the Hooker ’42 Scholarship, as well as an Air Force scholarship.

After graduation, he also acquired a master’s degree in aviation and space education from Oklahoma State.

Brian noted that his eyesight kept him from flying, and his first job in the Air Force was as an admin officer. He also worked as a protocol officer, then was able to work as mission crew on Airborne Warning and Control System and later Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System planes. He finished his Air Force career as the Air Force head of ROTC at Cal Berkeley.

Brian said that he was in an AWACS on 9/11, and they were vectored to stay over Colorado for quite some time. He then was eventually moved over D.C. to patrol over the Capitol. He said it

was crazy how air traffic essentially evaporated over the course of the day.

Over the years he deployed to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and even Curacao, conducting drug interdiction flights.

Brian has been married for 14 years to his wife, Valerie, who was introduced to him by one of his high school teachers. Their first “dates” with each other were done through emails, as Brian was deployed to the Middle East. Those emails took, and now they also have a 12-year-old son, Eli. Valerie, like Brian, is from Georgia, and they reside in Athens. Valerie is a published writer who writes about cooking the “Southern way” and is an accomplished baker.

Brian and his son, Eli, are active in Scouts, and Brian also works with Team America Relief, which helps bring in and relocate our Afghan allies.

Right after retiring, Brian spent some time working with 4-H, which led to his current gig, the director of compliance for the University of

Class of 1991: Brian Stone with wife Valerie and son Eli.

Class of 1991: Chris Eubank with wife Kim and daughter Emerson on vacation.

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Class Notes Georgia. His main job is to oversee that the hundreds of thousands of minors who come to campus for various programs during the year are protected and safe. His team ensures that guidelines, protocols, and background checks are all in place for all of the different activities.

The biggest VMI takeaway that Brian had serves him well in his job. He “always judges people on their character and ability. I learned that the VMI system really takes away every other part of life and makes you depend on those two things and makes you depend on those qualities of your BRs.” I also spent a few moments with Chris Eubank, one of the few BRs still on active duty.

Chris’s dad was in the Class of ’61 (which I think is one of the greatest classes to ever come out of VMI), so he had some knowledge of VMI, but as an Army brat, he was in high school in Belgium before matriculating and thought that VMI would give him enough discipline to graduate in “four years instead of 10.” He graduated as a 1st Class private and was in Company E. Chris majored in history (the best major). He also holds two master’s degrees—one in computer resource management and one in strategic studies from the Army War College.

His Army career actually started in tanks; he was commissioned in the Signal Corps but was detailed to tanks and spent two years as a tank platoon lieutenant stationed at Fort Knox and then Fort Riley, where he happened to meet his wife, Kim. When Chris was thinking of his path in the Army while we were at VMI, he thought that the Signal Corps would be a good way to go. “I liked Signal Corps because I figured it might give me a career after a few years in the Army; I still do. The economy wasn’t great around our graduation, and I thought this was a good plan.”

After 30 years in the Army, Chris has been stationed in quite a few places. He noted that he’d been stationed in Fort Knox, Fort Riley, Germany, Colorado Springs, Fort Bragg, Army War College, SOCOM in Tampa, Kuwait, Stuttgart for AFRICOM as J6, Fort Gordon, and now Fort Huachuca. He also did three tours in Iraq and four to Afghanistan for a total of 54 months of combat deployments.

I asked him when he realized he could be a general, and he said, “I never thought I would. I didn’t take the normal path; I had much time in the special forces community. I took jobs that I

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liked; no one was talking to me as if I was going to move up. I just want to do cool jobs and serve.

I have never thought I was the smartest person in the room, but I’m very trainable, and I have been fortunate to be able to rely on my NCOs, warrant officers, and staff to get the job done.” Chris pinned on his first star in ’18 and his second in July ’21. He technically owes five years with that second star. It will be great to see where he goes next. Chris mentioned that they may look at Kansas or North Carolina as potential retirement destinations.

For his personal life, Chris met his wife, Kim, in Kansas. She’s from Topeka from a non-military family. He said, “We met on a blind date. She didn’t know what she was getting into.” They have one child, Emerson, who is 16. She runs track for the high school and was adopted as an infant. The family enjoys biking and traveling.

“Germany was great; we were able to tour the country and see a lot of castles and other beautiful places.”

The lesson VMI taught him that he retains to this day is how humbling VMI can be. Chris said a sense of humility has helped him a lot in life.

“One of the first things you learn at VMI is humility, which has set the tone for my entire career.

Having to get along at VMI has helped me become more of a people person and a better leader.”

When asked what his fondest memories of VMI were, Chris said, “The best thing was the people I met. I love our class; we’re a pretty good group of gentlemen. Lifelong friends, we come from all walks of life, a variety of backgrounds—we’d all help each other if needed, no questions asked.

Even if we haven’t talked for years, we can pick right back up where we left off. I really enjoy our Zoom happy hours these days, and I’m looking forward to the reunion and having a bourbon with everyone.”

Speaking of the reunion, don’t forget our 30th Reunion is scheduled for March 25-26, 2022. We have confirmed a hotel block at the Best Western Plus Hunt Ridge (“VMI Class of 1991”) and encourage you to contact the hotel directly at (540) 464-1500 to book your room sooner rather than later—if there are even any left at the time this gets printed.

A final note on the reunion: There’s been much in the news about changes at VMI, along with quite a bit of negative press. I am going to our reunion to discuss what we went through together so many years ago, not what’s going on today.

There are many opinions about what VMI needs or doesn’t need—none of that changes what we went through together. I am going to see and celebrate all of you and the lives we’ve had since then.

I hope to see all of you there!

1992

William Woodward

BRs, Here are the latest updates from our classmates: By the time you receive this edition of the Alumni Review, we will be just over two months away from our 30th Reunion, which will be April

Class of 1992: Devon Mahoney and Colin Whitehouse representing their fathers at the reunion for the Class of 1961.

Class of 1992: Linda Nguyen, Tom Gnecco, James Gnecco, and Anhtuan Nguyen in July 2021.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 22-23, 2022. If you have not already made reservations, we will be staying at the Holiday Inn Express with overflow at the adjoining Best Western.

Steve “Bull” Arnold sent me in an update in which he said he retired from his role as an assistant principal in Arkansas and had been selected to be the inspector general for the First Air Force at Tyndall Air Force Base in Panama City, Florida.

He is now back on active duty and was promoted to lieutenant colonel. Steve said, “I am hoping to see some BRs (Chuck Douglass) while I serve here in north Florida for these next three years.” See the Our Alumni Serving section for a picture.

As mentioned in the previous Alumni Review, Col. Todd Pegg deployed again (his fifth mobilization) with the National Guard to Iraq in August 2021 as commander of the 329th Regional Support Group to perform base security and general support for Operation Inherent Resolve. Todd is the base commander of Al Asad Air Base in Iraq with base operating support–integrator.

They operate bases, providing command, life support, etc. across the region. Maj. Matt Swanson is deployed with Todd and is the Al Asad Air Base base engineer. A few other VMI alumni are deployed as well: Capt. Brian Pool ’12 and Lt. Col. Corey Stavinoha ’02. Todd and Matt return in 2022, and hopefully, we will get to see them at the reunion in April. See the Our Alumni Serving section for a picture.

John Brodie (Hon) and his wife, Sarah; Andy Tate; and Leslie and I were all present for the Institute Society Dinner Nov. 11, 2021, celebrating Founders Day. John did a great job as always leading the band and Glee Club performances. John mentioned that Harold “Opus” Stills’ son will be coming to VMI next year and joining Band Company.

In October, Andy Tate and Joe McClung flew out to Colorado to attend a USA Rugby match with Dan Lyle and Chris Bergen. I also got a note from Bob Burgess in Delaware saying he linked up with Joe this past summer to make some beer in Joe’s garage!

Colin Whitehouse sent in an update and picture in which he said, “Devon

2022-Issue 1

Class of 1992: John Brodie, Sarah Brodie, Woody Woodward, Leslie Woodward, and Andy Tate at the Institute Society Dinner on Founders Day, Nov. 11, 2021.

Class of 1992: Chris Bergen, Andy Tate, Dan Lyle, and Joe McClung in October 2021 following a USA Rugby match.

Class of 1992: Anhtuan Nguyen, John Ward, Linda Nguyen, and Dave Moody in Raleigh, North Carolina, in July 2021.

Mahoney and I were at our fathers’ 60th Reunion (Class of 1961) this past week.

We loved it so much. It was really interesting that we would both see each other there and that neither one of us had ever gone to a single reunion of our own. We were both asked to represent our dads who couldn’t make it. We both resolved to start going to our reunions.” Colin went on to say that “I want to at least celebrate our BRs’ successes and graduating from the best institute on earth and creating men of outstanding character. If you happen to write or contact Krug, Kitchen, Kelley, or Cox, tell them I have much to thank them for, and I would like to tell them in person. I have never forgotten their names, and I am eternally grateful to have known them during the six months of hell that are now some of the most instilling memories that inspire me to this day to never say die, keep the faith, and not lose hope.”

Anhtuan Nguyen sent me a great update and two pictures. The first was of him and wife Linda on a golf trip to Raleigh, North Carolina, in July, where they linked up with John Ward and Dave Moody. The second was of him, Linda, and Tom and James Gnecco, also from July 2021. They linked up to bid farewell to James (Tom’s son and Anhtuan’s godson) who was heading off to Army boot camp at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, where he was to start training as a combat medic. James had been accepted to VMI as a biology major but decided to serve his country first and postpone VMI. He enlisted in the Army and is currently training at Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas, following his initial training at Fort Jackson.

From there, he will head onto Airborne School. Anhtuan also reported that Alan McKinnon was recovering from neck surgery in October and looking forward to playing some golf again soon!

I got a few quick notes just to check in with me and to get updates on the impending reunion from Taylor Holt, Fitz Drummond, Mike Morris, Courtney Lambert, Glen Buck, and Bryan Frazier.

Do not hesitate to reach out to me with any questions you may have related to

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Class Notes what is going on at VMI. If I do not know the answer, I will contact someone at VMI who does and get back to you. Please let me know of any major life events such as marriages (including for our children), births, deaths, and advanced degrees so I can inform the Alumni Review. If you have a change of address, let the Alumni Agencies and I know so we can make sure you get all VMI correspondence.

In the Bonds, Woody

1993

Lincoln Swineford

Bob Matson let me know that the VMI connection is strong through his daughter, Nikki, and Paul Ackerman’s daughter, Emily, as both have committed to playing lacrosse at Shenandoah University. Hopefully, they’ll be seeing each other at games next year.

Speaking of our kids’ connections, Bill Cox and John Barefoot recently met up at UVA, where both of their daughters go. They’re both in the same sorority, and Bill and John and their wives got a chance to hang out at a sorority dinner.

I’ve touched base with Matthew Bowers several times recently, generally through texts. Matt is a pilot who flies into Richmond fairly often, so we’re trying to nail down a time when he’s in town and we can meet up.

Jon Casarotti checked in to say that he and Leigh are finally moving out of the Richmond area. They are temporarily relocating down to Virginia Beach while their new home is finished in the Goochland area, just west of Richmond. Jon and Leigh have somehow figured out how to not age. I’d like to say good for them, but I don’t think it’d kill Jon to be a BR and get some gray hair.

Kevin Barnes and his wife sent me a text from a South Carolina football game where Kevin ran into one of our dykes, William Gaspar ’90. William and I have known each other for about 25 years, having worked together at ECS for two different stretches of time, including currently. He runs our Fredericksburg office.

Kevin Morris checked in from jolly ol’ England: “Sending you some pics of a trip to Tuscany with Mike and Jen Howard, Don and Steph Spears, and Darin and Gray Ramsey. After

Class of 1993: Darin Ramsey, Mike Howard, Kevin Morris, and Don Spears in Italy.

Brother Rats!

I hope this update finds you all well and that you’ve had great summers and early falls.

Vic Tran checked in with an update. He was actually deployed in Afghanistan for the withdrawal. “Thank you to all of the BRs who communicated with me through my rotations. Kevin Roop, your quick text and pics meant a lot (thank you).

To all who are still out there fighting the good fight, keep up the great work; we will prevail. A big thank you to Debi, who kept things running at home while I was away. It does take a strong woman to make it through deployments, and Debi is definitely a strong woman.

Class of 1993: Vic Tran and Rusty Smith.

“While at home, I ran into Rusty Smith at the Irish/Italian Day in North Myrtle Beach, South meeting up in Rome, we rented a villa Carolina. What a co-winkidink. Rusty, near Montalcino to celebrate everyone’s wife, and family are doing well. They 50th trip around the sun and a couple of came down to Myrtle Beach to escape anniversaries. In addition to revisiting all Virginia. the best ’93 stories throughout the week “Also, while processing at the Emer(which our wives never get tired of), we gency Management Center in Maryland, also visited some wineries, played bocce, I ran into Mark Hicks ’86, who helped took a day trip to Siena, and ate insanely me locate my property from Afghanigood Italian food. Helen and I are still in stan. Mark was also contracting earlier London but likely relocating to Amsterin his career, and it wasn’t until we were dam for my job in early 2022. Our door swapping stories that we found out we are is always open if BRs find themselves on alumni. What a small world. Since then, I this side of the pond.” Sounds like a great have been deployed to the U.S. Embassy time. Glad you all got to do that, and good in the Central African Republic. If any of luck in Amsterdam! the BRs are in the area, drop me a line.

Class of 1993: With Moe at the game against The Citadel are And room 111 had a check formation I hope you all are well and stay strong.

Brian Southard, Vic and Susan Kane, Kristi Hayes, Brian’s at The Citadel game in October. While Keep your head on a swivel.” Thanks for son, and Grant Hayes. the game didn’t go as planned, Brian the update and thoughts, Vic. Be well.

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Class Notes hating school, Kat is doing great as a freshman in high school. We’re looking forward to getting back to whatever normal used to be in terms of Thanksgiving and Christmas after our COVID19-related issues last year.

Thanks to everyone who sent in an update. If you’ve never sent one in or haven’t sent one in recently, please consider doing so. You can send it either by email, text, or Facebook. I’d love to hear what y’all are up to. Be well. ’93, ’93, ’93.

1994

Clay Campbell

Class of 1994: Clay Campbell and Scott Townsend catching up at VMI.

Class of 1993: Bill Cox, John Barefoot, and their daughters.

Class of 1993: Jon and Leigh Casarotti.

Southard, Vic and Susan Kane, and Grant and Kristi Hayes got a chance to meet up in Charleston and had a great time.

Finally, I’d like to briefly comment on something that we’ve seen over the last six months or so, and that’s BRs reaching out for help and the way the class has responded. I’m not going to rehash any of the specifics, but I think that the way our class responded when guys reached out for help is really what we’re supposed to be about.

We help each other, and we’re there for each other. That is the true spirit of VMI, and it’s what makes the Institute possibly the greatest place in the world to be from. To all who helped out, Rah Virginia Mil! Things are good with the Swinefords as we roll into the holiday season. Emma’s killing it at her job; Maggie is doing great at VCU; and despite

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In the last article, I made a mistake and left out one of our BRs when I made the following comment. Jason was preceded by some other brother rats, and hopefully, they are reconnecting in heaven and watching over us: Gillespie, Ha, Witt, Stoyko, King, and Teal. Unintentionally, I left out Story, and I apologize.

Dr. Jonathan Goodman reached out recently; he was named the principal of North District Middle School this year. He also shared that after graduation from VMI, he went on to earn a Master of Business Administration degree from Webster University and then a Doctor of Business Administration from Argosy University.

I recently went up to a home game at VMI and saw John Campbell. He is remodeling another cabin and is still heavily involved in raising his pups. At the game, I caught up with Charlie and Dee Evans, Carter Baldwin, Jeremy Schlussel, and Dustin DeVore. After the game, I ran into Scott Townsend up at barracks.

Doug Estes wrote to let us know he took up a professorship at Tarbor College in Kansas. He has a 10th book coming out this fall and reports the wife and kids are doing well.

Wayne Lambert wrote to let me know that he took some words from Jason Nicholls to heart. Jason told us to reach out to BRs and keep in touch.

In the following months, Wayne has been muskie fishing with Herb Parsons, and went to a West Virginia University game with Mike Slover and Matt Ankrum. The following Saturday, he was at a game with Pete Major and Matt Ankrum.

A few weeks later, Wayne reached out again that

Class of 1994: David “Woody” Bonner, Wayne Lambert, and Herb Parsons fishing.

Class of 1994: Matt Ankrum, Wayne Lambert, and Pete Major at a West Virginia University game.

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Class of 1995: John Ambler, Fred Bates, Ricky Blaylock, Geoffrey Blum, Alexis Bouchard, Edwin Boyette, Charles Branch, Thomas Brashears, John Brooks, Christian Brumm, Jano Carlson, Bradley Coleman, John Devlin, Joseph Doyle, Eric Fegley, Michael Fellows, Jay Ferriola, David Fleck, William Goodrich, William Goodson, Mannoel Gorospe, Daniel Griles, Christian Hartwell, Travis Homiak, Jeffrey Hubbard, Marlin Ikenberry, Scott Jewell, Andrew Johnson, Lester Johnson, John Judy, Brian Kellner, Frederick Killmeyer, August Kraft, Steve Lee, Eric Mattocks, Johnathan Mayo, Hector Migliacci, Timothy Miller, David Mitchell, Kurt Polk, Erik Reynolds, Arie Richards, Todd Rupright, Bryan Rychlik, Eric Schwartz, D. Southall, Ante Sucic, William Taliaferro, Geoffrey Taylor, Teiva Teriitehau, Chad Tester, Terrin Tucker, Flavius Tyson, Frederick Werth, Samuel West, Damian Wilborne, Christopher Yeatts, and Michael Young.

Class Notes

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Class Notes

Class of 1994: Ryan Crowley, Dustin DeVore, Matt McNeilly, Sean Goldsmith, Chris Ratchford, and Danny Felty. he was “fishing” with David “Woody” Bonner and Herb Parsons before catching another WVU game with Matt Ankrum, Herb Parsons, and Keith McGee ’93.

Congrats to Ryan Crowley on his recent marriage. Ryan hosted a party, and in attendance were Dustin DeVore, Matt McNeilly, Sean Goldsmith, Chris Ratchford, and Danny Felty.

Chris Coolidge called concerned that I had tried to write Todd Witt out of the pages of our class.

He said that Todd was still kicking and even sent a picture as proof of life. Sorry for the confusion, in the last article I was referring to BR Dwayne Witt who had passed.

Always, Pig

1995

Joseph W. Doyle

Brother Rats, I hope this set of notes finds all of you well.

We just celebrated our 25th Reunion, and what a weekend it was.

Since we just had reunion, this set of notes will be kind of short. Just after notes were due in August, I received the following email from Terrin Tucker. “I’ve just recently taken on my second stint as chapter president for the VMI Club of the Triad (Greensboro/Winston-Salem/High Point metro area). It’s been about 10 years since my last stint as president, so that should keep me busy trying to keep our alumni engaged,

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Class of 1994: Clay Campbell and his family meet Glenn Youngkin, Virginia governor-elect.

informed, and assisting with recruiting future Keydets. I’ve been working from home since March 2020 due to our office shutting down due to COVID-19. I’m not sure if/when we will return to the office at this point. I was one of the unlucky ones that contracted COVID-19 back in December 2020, and it was not fun at all! I was able to recover at home, but I wouldn’t wish that on anyone!

“My wife and I just sent off our second born to start her senior year in college, and it seems like we were just dropping her off as a freshman!

“I still stay in contact with Jeff Hubbard since we work for the same company, and he’s doing well. He shares some updates on Facebook with his kids keeping him busy with athletics and other activities. Eric Mattocks visited me on his way back to Lynchburg from Atlanta, where he was taking his daughter on college visits. Jeff also came over and we chatted for a few hours before Eric headed home. Eric is still living in Lynchburg and runs a counseling business and is doing well.”

I know we all had a great time at the reunion.

It was great seeing so many of you. There were a lot of fun things going on, and I was happy to be a part of it with you all who could make it. I am proud of you all for giving to our class fund.

Other than that, I have nothing else to report as of now. I hope to continue hearing from you. I will try to be in touch with you guys as I am traveling, so that maybe we can get together. If any of you are traveling to the Lexington area, let me know, and we will meet up.

Stay safe, and I hope you all have a wonderful holiday season!

Rah Virginia Mil!

1996

Jon Dano Nick Latsios

Brother Rats, To start, we want to express our gratitude to everyone who attended the 25th Reunion and all those supporting our reunion drive. Our goals were simple: Get as many brother rats to the reunion as possible and make it an amazing experience so we would all stick together while we are there. We can proudly say based on feedback from so many of you that we achieved these goals. The outcome of these goals produced a level of joy, friendship, and bonding throughout the weekend that was truly inspiring. It is a testament to the bonds we share that we are family, and no matter how much time has passed, those bonds will never be broken. To those who could not make it, we missed you, and you are part of this family, too. We will do everything we can to get you connected so we can hear from you and see you again soon.

We wanted to take a moment to thank Tom Danielsen, who has served as our class agent for the last five years. This term was not your ordinary five years. Tom brought the class together uniquely during the pandemic through Zoom

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Class of 1996: John Adams, Marlon Anderson, Christopher Antonelli, Michael Arendt, Philip Bahen, Douglas Bartlett, James Bartosik, Timothy Blackburn, William Bollander, Charles Bott, Colin Boynton, Darren Braylo, Corrie Brice, Joseph Brockman, John Buchanan, Wyndham Buerlein, Shawn Callahan, Maxime Casteleyn, Abram Charlton, Yong Chong, Jeff Collier, Thadeus Creech, Thomas Danielsen, Jonathan Dano, Michael Deegan, John Di Dio, Paul Dickinson, Frank Dingle, Darrell Dudley, John Dwyer, Christopher Eddy, Brian Forrest, Chad Foster, Mark Foutz, Charles Gates, John Glaccum, Christopher Gorman, David Hall, Brian Hartless, Rodger Hoff, Matthew Holland, Daniel Hoover, Travis Hughes, Harri Humaloja, Shannon Hume, Jesse Janay, Stephen Johnson, Andre Johnson, Christopher Jones, Christopher Kavanaugh, William Kirby, Peter Kokolis, John Kokolis, Dat Lam, Thomas Lane, Nickolas Latsios, William Leonard, Joshua Lewis, Craig Lutterbie, David Marlow, Ricardo Mattoso, Christopher McCallum, Kenneth McCoy, Michael McFadden, Barron Mills, Brian Mitchell, Russell Moore, Jeffrey Mozgala, Antonio Napolitano, Christopher Noe, Christopher Oakey, Michael Obadal, Michael Ohleger, Karl Painter, Wesley Parmer, John Pearce, Edgar Perrow, Robert Prince, Michael Reed, Hunter Seal, Steve Shapiro, Jonathan Sherrod, Steven Shropshire, Bryan Smith, Robert Smith, William Stearman, Michael Stephens, Nathaniel Straub, Robert Swahn, Sterling Sweeney, Jamal Thomas, James Tinguely, Marc Trider, Matthew Tyrrell, Elias Wahesh, James Warf, Clifford Weddington, Vernon Wilkens, Jamie Yoxtheimer, and James Zepko.

Class Notes

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Class Notes 2.

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Class of 1996 1. Rob Sherwood working off some penalty tours from his trouble at the barracks gate.

5. The class gathers on the steps of Preston Library for their reunion class photo.

2. Corrie Brice and Scott Shropshire throw Jon Dano up to the top of the sentinel box where Nick Latsios and Tom Danielsen caught him.

3. Mark Simonds led a memorial service for brother rats who have passed on.

6. Maj. Gen. Cedric T. Wins ’85, Tom Danielsen, Jon Dano, Nick Latsios, and Meade King ’85 at the presentation of the 25th Reunion check where Tom shared his words on the significant accomplishments of the campaign and the establishment of the ’96 Jamie Edge VMI Spirit Scholarship.

4. Jim Warf wiped out from a marathon run with Matt Creech the Friday morning of the reunion.

7. Lunch with all the U.S. Marine Corps members of the Class of 1996 with guest Col. Dave Hall ’83.

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Class Notes calls, which we believe built momenfitness activities were called off due tum leading up to the 25th Reunion. to weather, but these two Company VMI had seen significant changes C BRs demonstrated that cold steel which created some uncertainty in was in the house. Disclaimer: Jim did many BRs. The reunion itself was sleep the rest of the day until the Fria significant effort to plan and exday night event. Meanwhile, the sip ecute, as we were the honored class. and paint event was well-attended, Tom’s leadership was in full display and there are definitely some amazthroughout these challenges. He ing artists in the group. Especially stayed focused on the common exBiff Smith. If you didn’t know, this periences and bonds that bring us toguy can paint! He totally went off gether, and that, of course, was in full script and painted an impressive view display at our reunion. His eloquent of barracks. It was so great to meet words during our check presentation many of our BRs’ wives at that event. at the football game were an amazing Class of 1996: Attending the funeral for Travis George in Colorado were We highly recommend it for future way for Tom to close out his time as Doug Bartlett, Chris Finnigan, Mike Wilbourn, Shawn Callahan, Mike get-togethers.

Obadal, Frank Dingle, Chris Antonelli, Ricky Mattoso, Shawn McFadclass agent. However, he did take the den, John Buchanan, John Kokolis, and Mike Felton (holding sign at Speaking of future get-togethers, time for some final thoughts for the center). Felton was a longtime friend of Travis. we need to keep the momentum up class notes below. from this reunion. Our next event will “Just wow! What an incredible reunion. Truly hearts and thoughts. There is a YouTube video be Saturday, Feb. 12, at VMI for the basketball blown away by the turnout and the time we all that Mark posted on our Facebook page. Please game against The Citadel. Yes, the ’96 Big Red spent reconnecting. Big thanks to the entire re- check it out if you have not seen it. Remember, club is forming up that weekend to bring the house union committee and VMI staff. A couple of high- brother rats, we are all family and are here for any- down. Please join us and wear red. one in their time of need. lights for me from the reunion were the following: That’s it for this edition of class notes. It is an This family was on full display, as many of honor to serve the class as the new agents. Our The Friday lunch with all the U.S. Marine Corps members of the Class of 1996 was incredible. our brother rats traveled to Colorado for Travis commitment is to keep our connections strong George’s funeral this past November. Thank you throughout these upcoming five years. We are Big thanks to retired U.S. Marine Corps Colonel to Doug Bartlett, Chris Finnigan, Mike Wil- both in the Philadelphia area, so if you are ever Dave Hall ’83 for joining us and sharing with us bourne, Sean Callahan, Mike Obadal, Chris in our war stories. The Shawn McFadden story close to Philly, please let us know. If you are travof his night out with Barron Mills during TBS Antonelli, Ricky Mattoso, Sean MacFadden, eling through, we are both close off the highways, was probably the most epic. Another highlight John Buchanan, and John Kokolis for showing whether it’s Route 95 in Pennsylvania or off the was learning that Rob Sherwood was the BR your support to Travis and his family.

Jersey Turnpike in New Jersey. Please reach out Another form of support was on full display to let us know how you are doing and, of course, who decided to try to get into barracks. Needless to say, the VMI side of story the versus Rob’s side at the reunion by Corrie Brice and Scott Shrop- if you need anything. of the story were vastly different. I did ask Rob shire for helping us get up on the sentinel box for All the Best to You and Your Families, to do some pushups Saturday out of remorse for Old Yells. They literally threw Jon Dano up to Jon and Nick his actions. I’ve attached some pictures from both the top, to which Marlon Anderson later at the events. Lastly, big thanks to Jon Dano and Nick football game told him, you need to start doing Latsios for all the help planning the reunion and some pullups, Dano! Yes, you are right about that, my friend. It will be a goal for the next reunion to David M. Hudock stepping up to be our new class agents.”

In terms of notes, it’s hard to single out news climb versus get thrown.

I think we all got enjoyment out of seeing Jafrom folks, as the reunion produced so many updates and stories. We thought we would focus on mal Thomas and his son, Judah, cutting it up on a few highlights. Our class memorial service was the dance floor during our Saturday night gala. led by Mark Simonds, and so many of us found They led the charge for a surge to the dance floor Gentlemen of the Old Corps! Greetings from that to be the highlight of the weekend. Mark or- by many toward the end of the night. The casino your agent’s new desk in Columbia, the District chestrated the event with such grace in both his night was a hit, and class unity was on full display of. What!? Yes, I have returned to the nether rebeautiful words and leadership in having other as BRs helped others learn the table games. gions inside the beltway once again and escaped Matt Creech and Jim Warf decided to shrug the Tarheel state—after a mere 18 months of bliss brother rats share something about all those who off their age and go for a marathon run the Friday in Raleigh—for good. I’ve taken the leap to the have passed on: Jamie Edge; Billy Kaushagen; morning of our reunion weekend. Through rain Shane Sposito; Jason Williams; James Cofer; dark side and am a government employee, fully and mud, they pushed on, just like back in the day lobotomized, and working for the Department of Quen Emick; and our latest loss, Travis George.

We love you and will always keep you in our going up House Mountain, perhaps. I think many the Navy. This should afford me ample time for

1997

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes writing class notes, which brings me to this quarter’s entry, written in November 2021, which has to be one of the best months of the year because of a Halloween hangover, Thanksgiving, Founders Day, the Marine Corps birthday, and Joel Kusterer’s birthday.

Speaking of Marines, let’s start with Ed Bonham, who piled on the November good times with a two-year wedding anniversary, and wrote in to say, “Things are still moving forward on our end.” Ed still works for the fire department, and his bride, Lynne, is performing nursing QA from home for Bon Secours. Their wedding business is going well and has been solidified as a definitive part of their retirement plans. An added benefit of Ed’s and Lynne’s wedding planning exploits is their exposure to a number of alum along the way.

In September, Chris Wise Diaz ’98 was a guest at one of their weddings. And before that, he spent a couple of nights at the home of Joe Cofer ’96 in Onancock while there for another wedding they planned. He even hooked up with a BR on one of his wedding trips—this one to Cape Cod—where he took time to have lunch in Boston with fellow jarhead Mike Guarin. When Ed isn’t cruising the East Coast planning opulent and expansive weddings, he’s ensuring Slemp lives by paying a visit to the legend himself for a recent brunch. See accompanying picture for proof of life. Thanks for dropping in, Ed, and it’s good to hear your side hustle is going well!

Speaking of Mike Guarin, he dropped me a line to let me know he is alive and well and recovering from a recent knee surgery. Evidently, Ed performed some magic fire department massage therapy on the knee in question, and the two spent the night dancing carelessly to Wham!’s “Careless Whisper,” stopping only for pink martini refills and Motrin. At least, that’s what the Boston police report said when researched online. Glad you guys linked up; look forward to seeing you both at the 25th next October!

Fellow devil dog Joe Howard of Chandler, Arizona, contacted me from Bavaria, Germany, where he is treating his wife, Cris, for her birthday and maintaining positive foreign relations through excessive and frequent beer consumption. When Joe isn’t supporting the fatherland’s tourism industry, he is working for Honeywell Aerospace in Phoenix, Oregon, and he is jumping out of perfectly operational aircraft in pursuit of his skydiving hobby. True story: He recently competed at the USPA Skydiving Nationals and placed fifth in

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the Advance category of four-way FS. Thanks for the note, Joe, and hope to see you and Cris drop into the 25th!

Brad Aughinbaugh, international man of below-the-radar fame, “F-Trooper” extraordinaire, and former Marine, surfaced in Lexington, Virginia, of all places, to show his pre-strain son around post for what can only be a formality for the young lad; I mean, we all know he’s going there, right? Brad’s out in San Diego, where he is working for the government. It sounds like he will be around for the 25th next October, so I look forward to catching up and hearing what exactly it is you do for the government, brother. Look forward to seeing you!

Class of 1997: Ed Bonham and Noah Slemp at a recent brunch in Virginia.

Class of 1997: Will Tong and his rat, Ben Kaler ’00, in front of Ben’s family restaurant in Maine earlier this summer.

Another BR celebrating Founders Day, Veterans Day, and the Marine Corps birthday in November was Marty Coombs. Marty is currently bundling up to keep warm in Buffalo, New York, where he has been living for the past 14 years. Before that, he was living the warmer life in Arizona working for the Border Patrol. Apparently, eight years of searing heat zapped his brain, and he decided to cool it off in upstate New York for the time since!

Great hearing from you, Marty, and we hope you plan on strapping on some snowshoes next October to mush your way out of the frozen north to come down for the 25th. Look forward to seeing you there!

On the opposite end of the weather spectrum comes high school classmate and fellow Marine Ian Brooks, who shows absolutely zero signs of ever leaving Hawaii. In fact, the roots grew deeper this year when his mom and wife Katie’s mom both moved out to Oahu. To deal with the onslaught of relatives, Ian joined forces with a Marine buddy of his and started Koolau Distillery in Kailua, Hawaii, known for its Old Pali Road Whiskey. Look for the business on the interweb and order your bottle today. Rumor has it he is planning to release a limited-edition bourbon in December, so put your orders in now if you haven’t already, and he said he’s looking forward to making a private 1997 class label whiskey in time for the 25th! Ian is still faking the funk in the individual ready reserve and plans to actually, no kidding, for real, retire from the Marine Corps in June 2022. At that point, he probably still won’t find actual, legitimate work to do but instead continue to coach soccer for the Chelsea Club as well as three girls’ teams, which both of his daughters (Rachel, 12, and Lily, 10) play on. I sincerely hope you can break away from the surf to make it back for the 25th with cases of private label whiskey for the very well behaved, subdued, and teetotaling Class of 1997. Can’t wait to see you there, brother!

In non-Marine news, Jimmy Smythers popped up on the net, this time from Cyprus, where he and his wife, Sarah, and their two boys, Julian (8) and Oliver (4), are living the State Department life.

The sweet joys of island life are going to end next summer when the Smythers family will return to the State Department mothership in Washington, D.C. It will be great having you stateside again, Jimmy, and I’m looking forward to seeing you all at the 25th. Safe travels!

Earlier in the summer, Will Tong got in touch

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Class Notes with me and shared his exploits in our country’s northeast. His rat, Ben Kaler ’00, runs his own charter business, Mainetain Charters, and took Will’s family and him on a short outing to catch some fish and do some sightseeing in and around Boothbay Harbor. They then ate at his family restaurant, Kaler’s Restaurant, which is run by his brothers. The outing, food, and company were amazing. Will hasn’t seen Ben since he came back from Iraq after being wounded by an IED well over 15 years ago. Glad you had a chance to connect with your rat, Will, and hope to see you in Lexington next October. Thanks for the note!

That wraps our class shenanigans up for this quarter, gents, but I hope to hear much more after the new year about holiday exploits and budding plans to dominate fall reunion weekend 2022! I hope everyone had a warm and safe holiday season and look forward to seeing all of you in less than a year for our 25th Reunion!

Class of 1998: Joey Bates and his son, Cole, with his first buck on Sean Hicklin’s farm.

1998

Joseph Bates Jr.

Class of 1998, Hello from Lex Vegas, where we just completed our first year back in the county, and the Institute turned another year older! I hope this all finds you well, as I have little to report in terms of submissions but some news about our 25th Reunion planning.

Bryan Taueg checked in and provided a picture of himself and Mike Spinelli in Montana. He provided an update that Mike is alive and well and that he and his wife love visitors! I prodded B. Taueg for more of an update, but I was pushing the deadline, and he was likely playing spades, so I did not receive one in time. Bryan and Mike, I hope you guys read this in February and it prompts each of you to send me some notes; you are both looking good!

Demetri Poulos sent me a quick note along with a picture of him and Mark Glancy enjoying some suds and recovering cadet style. Demetri said that Mark visited him in Jacksonville, Florida, for a rucking event. He shared that they only did 20 miles, but the conditions were tough (temp in the low 50s, 40 mile per hour winds, and rain), but they made the best of it and finished the day with

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Class of 1998: Demetri Poulos and Mark Glancy enjoying beers following a ruck event in Florida.

Class of 1998: Bryan Taueg and Mike Spinelli checking in from Montana.

some hot pizza and cold beer. No update provided on game day baby, game day pie, but it looks like they had fun. Demetri, thanks for checking in and providing the picture. Your weather sounds a lot like the five days I just spent in a tree stand in southern Ohio!

Neil Holloran took a minute and wrote that he saw the post on the META Facebook and thought he would drop a line, which he admits me and John Strock seem to fight the same battles when we beg for class notes. He adds that all is the same from his 2018 submission; the kids are a little older, he feels a little older, but he is all triple jabbed up after this last 18 months or so and going strong.

They are still in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and still have cold (light) beer at the ready in case anyone wants to drop by. Admittedly, the gatherings have been few and far between, but the alumni group stays in touch via email and social media as much as possible. Neil is just trying to raise four kids in these COVID-19 times and not go insane, and he hopes that with any luck by the 25th, we’ll be through the worst of it. Neil, I could not agree more with you and hope we have a huge turnout for the reunion! Do not wait three years for an update next time, friend!

Tyler Shelbert sent me a Facebook message as I was typing these notes for submission. I guess we are both cramming for the exam. He is still living outside of Chicago in Naperville, Illinois. If anyone makes it to Chicago, please let him know; he would be happy to show you around or meet you out. The family is doing well; his oldest son is in high school, his middle son is in elementary school, and his youngest son is in preschool. Tyler is still working for Hillrom, based in downtown Chicago, as part of their surgical division.

He spoke to Josh Brown today, and he is doing well stationed down in Norfolk. He just dropped his retirement papers and should be out later this summer, but he does not know what he is going to do next yet. Tyler, thanks for the update and congratulations to Josh—looking forward to hearing from him soon!

I see Sean Hicklin every month or so, and we often pilgrimage out to his farm to visit with his wife, Sabrina, and daughter, Ella. Our daughters are animal crazy and spend countless hours playing with the chickens, etc., which allows us to drink some beer or take my son hunting. My son, Cole, took his first buck on youth day at Huck’s farm, which was awesome. I am hopeful that we have been able to go again when you read these notes.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes on a project site. In other news, my son Thierry LeMercier continues to host started his freshman year at University of guests at the Abigail Inn, and we have Delaware majoring in engineering. That’s been taking his castoffs into our spare all for now.” Great to hear from you, space around the block. We each atLars. Congratulations on the promotion, tended the Halloween trick or treat in and thanks for the update! Charles Fleet barracks with the family, and our wives dropped a line to commemorate his pilgo to Pilates together weekly. Jason Fye grimage to Lexington and his visit with reached out to Thierry and me when he Dallas Clark. Sounds like Dallas gave was passing through, but I was traveling Chuck a proper tour of all the new conand missed out; sorry, Jason! Thierry is struction on post, and Chuck’s two sons doing great, and we enjoy hanging out got a chance to tour barracks and check with them when we can. Thierry is getting out the high-life of being a 3rd Class camore involved with the local chapter and det. numerous VMI events.

Woody Cromley checked in quickly A group of us has started communicating this quarter. Woody notes he is doing about the 25th Reunion this past week, and Class of 1999: Ryan Bogese, Billy Gage, and Jake Abell, the men from room 109, took some time to catch up for lunch well in Des Moines, Iowa, and is hoping we are likely going to start video calls in in Richmond. to PCS to a warmer location next year. the coming months to begin organizing it.

Woody, if you head back East, drop us all a line so You will likely have received an unsolicited email we can arrange a 1999 mini reunion. from me asking for your input on the reunion and Billy Gage shared the following: “Hi, Jay, hope what we can do to make it an event worthy of your you are doing well. Jacob Abell, Ryan Bogese, attendance when you read this edition in February. and I caught up for lunch at a restaurant in the We are going to put together committees (like Ring West End of Richmond. Jacob is still running Figure) moving forward and will be adjusting our his company, Piedmont Construction. He is as approach every five years to meet the needs and busy as ever and interrupted lunch several times requests of the class. to take work calls from clients. Ryan is a civil With that, I humbly leave you in the bonds. I engineer with Wiley|Wilson and catches up with hope you are well and, when you read these in Max Chance frequently. I am a police officer February 2022, that you had a great holiday seawith Henrico Police Department. We all catch son with your families. Please take a few minutes up whenever we can.” Billy, looks like the men to shoot me an email, Facebook message, or text from room 109 are doing well. Great update, and message so that I have more to share. ’98, ’98, ’98.

1999

Jay Witt

Greetings, Brother Rats and Friends of the Class of 1999, It’s always great to receive an update from a BR we haven’t heard from in decades. That said, it was a pleasure to get a note from our Brother Rat Lars Peterson. Lars sent the following note: “I’ve been working for KCI Technologies engineering company for nine years now. I’m located at their Baltimore headquarters. I was recently promoted to senior project manager in the spring. Shah Rahman ’97 also works for KCI in our Dallas office, and we had a chance to catch up in Graford, Texas, at the beginning of November while

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Class of 1999: Lars Peterson and Shah Rahman ’97 meet up on one of KCI’s project sites in Graford, Texas.

Class of 1999: Charles Fleet’s sons getting a taste of being a 3rd Class cadet during a recent trip to VMI.

Class of 1999: Ian Bobbitt and his son at the Furman football game this year. Ian’s son is wearing Ian’s gym dyke sweatshirt.

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Class Notes thanks for all you do as a police officer! ability to check in can be useful.

Ian Bobbitt reports he is doing well in Charles “Chuck” Minski is running the Greenville, South Carolina, area. Ian into everyone. He was on a flight with his plans to make the trek to VMI for Legacy wife and ran into none other than Conrad Day in the spring and would love to catch Bicknell. Conrad serves as the first officer up with any BRs in the area. In other on an A320 with American Airlines out of news, Ian had the chance to talk to BrothDallas/Fort Worth, so check the cockpit er Rat Tex Yarborough and notes that next time you’re passing through!

Tex seems to be doing well, heading into Don Ferguson and Lee Davis recently retirement from the Army. Ian also had caught up with Miten Bhavsar on Halthe opportunity to attend both The Citadel loween in Lex Vegas. I think they were and Furman football games recently, and going for the Townie look, but still waitgiven the outcome of each event, suggests ing to hear back. he may watch from home next time so Last Review, I shared that Brad Allen Class of 2000: Chris Abbott, Micah North, Nick Castleberry, the Keydets might have better luck. Ha! and Pat Haddock at the Kentucky Colonels Race. had gotten promoted, and I am including Thanks for cheering on the red, white, and a picture this time around. yellow, Ian! Chris Abbott, Micah North, Nick CastleberBRs, please keep the Alumni Agencies informed ry, Pat Haddock, and Jason Hennigan ’99 met of your updated contact information. Changes/upup for the Kentucky Colonels race at Churchill dates can be sent to Norma Robinson, nrobinson@ Downs for a weekend of bourbon and betting. vmiaa.org, or to me. I look forward to speaking If anyone is interested in becoming a Kentucky with each of you soon, but until then, all the best to Colonel, please reach out to one of the four of us. you and your families and Rah Virginia Mil! It’s a great annual event.

Jay Will Ward is running for judge of the 368th District Court in Texas. I have been watching his posts online; it’s great seeing our BRs take up other civic positions.

2000

Chris Abbott

This past August, we matriculated 25 years ago.

Where does time go?

Tony Cerella recently returned from Italy for two weeks and reached out via the Class of 2000 Facebook group. This is a great way to connect to the class; even if you don’t use Facebook, the

2001 Class of 2000: Don Ferguson, Miten Bhavsar, and Lee Davis gathering in Lexington.

Tony Gelormine

Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2001.

2002

Salmaan Khawaja

Class of 2000: Brad Allen’s promotion to lieutenant colonel.

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Class of 2000: Chuck Minski and Conrad Bicknell in the cockpit of an A320.

Brother Rats, I hope that this edition of the Review finds you and yours well! I write these notes as 2021 draws to a close, and I wish everyone a happy new year and best wishes in 2022! Our reunion is coming up, and I am looking forward to seeing as many of you as can make it!

On to the notes!

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Class of 2003: Chris Kim was promoted to lieutenant colonel in September 2021. His daughters did the honors of pinning on his silver oak leaves.

Class of 2002: Jerry Whitlock completed his second Ironman Sept. 18, 2021.

Jerry Whitlock completed his second Ironman competition in September 2021. He is not able to make the reunion this year, as he and his family will be spending some well-earned vacation time in Hawaii.

Alex Haseley met up with James Howard over the Memorial Day weekend at the Lincoln Memorial. As many of you know, James founded and is president of VAU Veterans and Athletes United (vetsAU.com), and it should be noted that James does incredible work that is positively impacting the lives of countless people. He has built the organization from the ground up, and any support we can offer should be given. I am also working towards petitioning the Institute to have the dog tag memorial flag at VMI one day soon.

Again, I hope all is well with you and yours, and please drop me a line if you are able!

In the Spirit, Salmaan

meet the deadline. We’ve finally gotten our first cold night here in Virginia as we celebrated the 182nd birthday of VMI last week, as well as Veterans Day. While my world has been a notch or two above its normal chaotic level the last few weeks, I’m looking forward to what I’ll be doing in four days and a wake up; I’ll be up at the last VMI football game of the season with most of my family, as well as with BRs Haire, Traina, Matthews, Quinn, Kerns, and Harr and their families. What really blows my mind is this will be the last game my daughter, Savannah, will go to before she enters college next fall. I’m getting old! It seems like just yesterday we were bringing her up to her first game at just about a month old.

Okay, I’ll stop reminiscing, guess that’s another sign of getting old!

As crazy as our world is right now, one of the things that helps me keep sane and always brings a smile to my face is connecting with BRs. We’re blessed to catch a couple high school football games with Jason Annis and his wife, Theresa, and their girls, Kiersten (she was there but wouldn’t sit with us), Kourtney, and Piper. Jason’s wife, Theresa, has kept an eye out for Savannah since she’s been in high school. Jason would surprise me with a photo text, typically of him and my license plates, and then show up at the game.

Almost 20 years since we took accounting together with Col. Bush, and we’re still having fun!

I caught up with Jon Faff a couple a few weeks ago at a home football game. Jon is doing his best trying to snap the Corps back in shape. I got text from a 2nd Class cadet I know who told me Jon boned him for something that almost cost him being on confinement during Ring Figure. Fortunately for the 2nd Class cadets, the new deputy commandant, John Hartsock ’00, scratched it for

2003

William Talley V

Brother Rats, I’m back to my old ways, and I’m down to the wire in getting this set of notes submitted to

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Class of 2003: Chaz Wagner and girlfriend Sydney after they completed Chaz’s first 10-miler (Cherry Blossom) in a time of 1:32:47 in Washington, D.C.

Class of 2003: The Overstreet siblings— Abby, Clara, Seth, and Logan.

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Class Notes He writes, “I had the honor of him. Talk about feeling old—one of being a keynote speaker at an our dykes is now the deputy comAlumni Engagement Conference mandant, and one of our BRs is on in July. I spoke about business com staff! mentorship that VMI alumni could Lara Tyler was up at the game as and should provide to cadets who well, but we weren’t able to connect are close to graduating and will be outside of text. entering the workforce. As a busiChaz Wagner does a great job of ness planning manager at Oracle catching up with BRs and supplying Corporation and a human resourcme with pictures for this publication. es warrant officer in the National Thanks, Rubber Bat! Chaz did his Guard, the Alumni Association first 10-miler back in September with felt that I added a great dynamic his girlfriend, Sydney. I think he’s Class of 2003: Lt. Col. John Roche gathered with fellow alumni from gotten hooked and is going to try and different units while stationed in Kuwait in November 2021. With him to and had a great message. The challenge Jason Lambert to see who are (front row) Col. Sean Davis ’95, 1st Lt. Joel Hutchens ’12, 1st Lt. Jo- recording of that speech is on the can run a faster 10-miler. Chaz and seph Choi ’18, Maj. John Parson ’01, (back row) 1st Sgt. Robert Smolar Alumni Agencies website.

“There was another event the Juan Sanchez were both down to see ’84, Cpt. Josh Kinder ’11, Lt. Col. Wilson Mustian ’01, Lt. Col. Corey Stavinoha ’02, Maj. Scott Bartholomew ’06, Col. Benjamin Venning ’96, first week of November. I was not Chris Kim get promoted to lieuten- Roche, Lt. Col. Danee Cook ’02, and Maj. Randy Hager ’01. able to attend.” ant colonel in the Marines this past Newly promoted Lt. Col. John October. Chris’s daughters got the Casper wrote in from “Mother I,” proud honor of pinning on his silver “Things here in Lexington are gooak leaves. Way to go, Chris! ing well! I get to see my old roomJohn Roche emailed me that he’s mate, Tim Felts, all the time now over in Kuwait currently, and while with his son, Conner, in the Corps. things have settled down a little bit, It’s fun to tell him how hard things he was able to catch up with a host were back in the ‘Old Corps.’ I of fellow alumni from different units recently ran into Craig Hamilton whose classes spanned across four and his wife, Sarah, after a home decades. football game. I walked them into Derek Overstreet and his wife, barracks where we hung out at the Kelly, welcomed their fourth child, old sentinel box for a while and a son, Logan Kent, into the world talked about all the recent changes Oct. 26, 2021. Logan was welcomed home by his siblings, Abby (9), Seth Class of 2004: John Casper during his promotion ceremony with his at VMI. They looked great and are (6), and Clara (4). From what I’ve son, Mareto, and daughter, Arsemawit. Mareto and Arsemawit are doing well. I also had lunch with changing John’s shoulder epaulets with his wife, Lauren, and Bob PhilChris Perry ’05 just a few weeks been able to tell via Facebook, Der- lips ’87, Institute chaplain.—VMI Photo by Kelly Nye. ago; he was up here as our guest ek and Kelly look like they’re enjoypreacher for Parents Weekend. In other news, ing now being a “party of 6!” Congratulations!

I got promoted to the lieutenant colonel in the Well, BRs, that’s it for this set of notes. When good ol’ Virginia Militia back in July and startyou get these, it’ll be February, but I hope that ed classes toward earning a doctoral degree in each of you will have had a joyful holiday season pastoral counseling. I need more training to and a great new year as we enter 2022. As always, keep up with all the challenges of these new send me updates, pictures, jokes—something!

Generation Z cadets!”

From Eric Waters: “The Waters family is back in the U.S. after completing our move Scott E. Campbell back to Hurlburt Field, Florida. Before leaving Japan, Steve Linkous and I climbed Mount Fuji on a cold, windy, and rainy 4th of July.

Class of 2004: Ryan Koniak speaking A couple of days later, I ran into Noah Diehl about alumni mentorship to cadets at while he was working on a construction project the Alumni Engagement Conference in at Yokota Air Base, Japan.” Welcome home, Ryan Koniak has sold his soul to the Warrant July 2021.

Eric! Steve, send me the Mount Fuji picture!

Officer Corps! Welcome to the “dark side.”

2004

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes in New Jersey with the Air Force 305th Air Mobility Wing, where he is currently commander of the 32nd Air Refueling Squadron.

Andrew Troy wrote in after a visit to the National Museum of the U.S. Army with the Maryland Chapter of the Alumni Association: “On Friday, Nov. 12, members of the Maryland Chapter attended a private tour of the National Museum of the U.S. Army located at Fort Class of 2005: Andrew Troy (center) visits the National Museum of the U.S. Army with fellow members of the VMI Maryland Belvoir, Virginia. Retired Colonel Miguel Monteverde ’66 graciously Chapter. agreed to provide a private tour of the museum’s collection to Sam Samuels ’62, prayers, Andre Thornton ’98, Sean Lanier ’94, Lieutenant Colonel Steve Raveia ’04, Michael Hooper ’87, and myself. The group spent the morning reviewing the history of the United States Army from its formation in 1775 as the Continental Army to its present-day missions.

Members of the tour group served in combat theaters including Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Many thanks to Colonel Monteverde for facilitating an interesting tour!”

I also caught up with Andrew Stribling: “I’m still working as a deputy first class sheriff in Fauquier County. I am assigned to a middle school as an SRO and received two awards in 2021. I did welcome my second son with Class of 2004: Eric Waters and Noah Mallory, delivering Griffin Cole Stribling way Diehl at Yokota Air Base, Japan, in July back on Dec. 2, 2020. Griffin is already walk2021. ing at 11 months. This summer, Johnny Rerucha moved back up from Texas to Maryland, and our families have done many activities together, such as apple picking at my orchard, Tom Hardinge attended Fredericksburg Nationals games, and Class of 2005: Derek Rankin and Jeff visited the Virginia Scottish games and the Henderson at the A/TA Convention Timothy Johnson Maryland Renaissance Festival. We even did in Orlando. a dude’s night out at the MGM in the National another busy and eventful holiday season. Harbor, catching the Red Sox versus the NaWith only a few updates to pass along, I will tionals game before throwing our money away keep things short and sweet for you. on blackjack. Hopefully, we will get a few Derek Rankin sent me a quick text saying more BRs together over the holidays in the hello from the Air Force Airlift/Tanker AssoD.C./Northern Virginia area and keep the good ciation Convention in Orlando, along with a times rolling.” picture taken with BR Lt. Col. Jeff HenderThat’s all for this edition, BRs; nice and Hello Again, Brother Rats, quick, as promised. Please continue to keep Even though it is now November as I write, son. Jeff is now the commander of the 62nd those updates coming in, and as always, stay we will be well into the new year by the time Operations Support Squadron located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. Derek safe and be well. you read them, with another holiday season in (also a recently promoted lieutenant colonel) Rah Virginia Mil, the books. I hope this note finds you all well, Tom Hardinge now fully recovered from what I’m sure was is still at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst In other news, while scrolling on Facebook, I saw that Mike Roscoe was also promoted to lieutenant colonel at the beginning of November.

Congratulations! If you picked up a promotion recently and I missed it, please let me know!

Finally, and just in time for this update, Erica Ardolino Comparin and her husband, Fred, welcomed Beckham Vallin Comparin to the world!

Erica writes, “Our little guy made his grand entrance earlier today at 5:21 a.m., weighing 9.1 pounds and was 21-and-a-half inches long. Thank you to all of our friends and family for the love and support.”

Congratulations to all of you!

Take care! Be safe and keep in touch!

Scott Campbell

2005

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Class of 2006: Berit Aloisio, James Angerman, Jeffrey Berwell, David Bruster, Joel Burger, Ian Camper, Gabby Canceran, Miguel Cervoni, Christopher Chase, Michael Child, William Collier, Michael Davis, Frank Dolberry, Richard Durkee, Seth Enterline, Jonathan Everiss, Clifton Ferguson, Joshua Freeman, Christopher Gathmann, Patrick Heiny, Andrew Ihnen, Shaun Jones, Brian Kerrebrock, Charles Lindsey, Jason Long, Phillip Lundberg, Barry McCord, Brian McGill, Matthew McGonegle, Jamaila Melchers, Stuart Miner, Thomas Moncure, Tyler Monger, Nathaniel Moreira, Jonathan Nagle, Steven Parsons, Lezshell Pauling, Jeffrey Sale, Kevin Simpson, Kirby Smith, Gregory Stronko, Forrest Tharrington, Jackson Todd, Charles Upshaw, Joselyn Wall, Alana Webb, Thomas Wilson, James Woodard, Justin Woulfe, and Douglas Ziegenfuss.

Class Notes

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VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

7.

6.

Class of 2006 1. Robyn (Schaperjahn) Chatwood with her children, Robert, Johnny, and Olivia.

2. Michael Ivins, Cornelia Ivins, Susanna Ivins, Jamie Baldwin, T.J. Baldwin, Caroline Baldwin, Todd Baldwin, Curt Ivins, Alex Ivins, and Josephine Ivins.

3. Andrew Upshaw visits with Gen. J.H. Binford Peay III ’62 and his wife, Pamela Peay, at their home in Northern Virginia.

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4. John Diehl and Andrew Upshaw in Tallinn, Estonia.

5. Steven “Scooter” Parsons, Jeff Sale, Forrest Tharrington, and Andrew Upshaw at the class dinner during reunion weekend.

6. Jimmy Angerman, Chris Chase, Andrew Ihnen, Joey Zyra, Kevin Simpson, Mike Child, and Chris Gathmann.

7. Dave Bhatta and Mike Werner catch up.

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Class Notes

2006

Will Collier

Brother Rats of the Best Class to Ever Enter Barracks, Greetings from Stafford, Virginia. It was wonderful to catch up with many of you during our 15th Reunion in September. As we look to future reunions and class events, it would be helpful if we could put together a Reunion Committee and a Fundraising Committee. We want to be sure we have as many folks involved as possible, so everyone’s ideas are addressed. Please email our class agent Gmail address if you would like to volunteer yourself.

Robyn Chatwood (Schaperjahn) wrote, “I am the senior criminal defense attorney at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and in 2020 had a third child, Olivia, and received a Master of Laws degree in contract and fiscal law. My husband, Albert Chatwood ’05, finished a master’s in information systems from Alabama in 2021. I’m working on another Master of Laws in tax law from Boston now.”

Dave Bhatta wrote, “I had the opportunity to drink a few beers with Mike Werner and grab lunch with Brian Kerrebrock the last week of October in Maryland. Not one of us has aged a day. Routinely run into a few alumni from our era here in Hawaii—Emily (Naslund) Culver ’05, Drew Holt ’07, and Julian Sculley ’09. John Anderson and I lived a few miles away from each other but couldn’t get our acts together to meet up before he moved on to his next duty station.”

Andrew Upshaw reports, “It was really great seeing everyone at the reunion! What an incredible weekend! On my way down to Lexington, I was able to see General and Mrs. Peay ’62, which was really great. We were able to catch up on everything, and they both send warm regards to our class. I’m looking forward to seeing them again soon! Recently, I also was able to able to catch up with John Diehl in Tallinn, Estonia, and will see Jonas Narbutas in Vilnius, Lithuania, soon.”

Curt Ivins and Todd Baldwin were able to meet up at the Ivins’ home in Florida. Curt said, “Todd Baldwin’s brewery business brought him to the Emerald Coast of Florida where Curt Ivins is stationed, and their families had time to catch up.”

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Stu Miner sent in the following: “This spring, I had the pleasure of seeing John Mundt on a trip to Chicago, then later celebrating New Market Day and watching the Preakness with Phil Lacey while he was doing some training in Georgia. This summer, my two-and-a-half-year suspension without pay from the College Park Fire Department came to an end via a favorable trial verdict from a whistleblower lawsuit (clearing my good name). My wife, Kate, has been working a new job as a U.S. representative for an international textbook company and our kids, Cora and Ephraim, and I have been camping when we can.”

Thank you to everyone who took a second to send over a picture or some notes about your recent interactions with VMI folks. I would also like to thank Sean Moran, who sent over some pictures of our Band Company BRs during reunion.

Your BR, Will

Class of 2007: Matt Kania and Mike Canning at a hockey game near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

2007

Maury Denton

Brother Rats, Cheers to everyone! As I write these notes, our football season is finishing up with a current record of 6-4 with one game to go, and we’re 1-1 in basketball already. Solid seasons so far this year, so congrats to all the Keydets. Now on to the class updates.

On the baby news, Jamaal Walton and his wife, Marci, welcomed their second child, Krew Minkah Walton, to the world March 8, 2020. They are loving life in Charleston, South Carolina. I received a family pic from Halloween with the kids (Krew and Zadie) as peanut butter and jelly.

Also, Jamaal and Tabitha Davenport got together for breakfast in early September when he was in town for the Michigan football game in Ann Arbor. Washington played Michigan in the big house.

Brant Priest recently moved back to the Washington, D.C., area into a place in Old Town Alexandria after an 18-month hiatus down in Wilmington, North Carolina. He is stoked to be back in the area and is looking forward to catching up with the multitude of our brother rats that are nearby.

Greg Schwartz recently joined the University

Class of 2007: Jamaal Walton and Tabitha Davenport met up for breakfast in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in early September.

Class of 2007: Jamaal Walton and his wife, Marci, with Krew and Zadie dressed as peanut butter and jelly for Halloween.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes of Denver in pursuit of obtaining a master’s degree in real estate.

Matt Kania let me know back in August that a group of 17 alumni ranging from ’04-’21 put a hockey team together to play in an adult league tournament outside of Philadelphia. They played four games and went 3-1 and won their division.

I received a picture of Matt and Mike Canning.

Good to see you boys!

That is all the notes for this quarter. Hope everyone has a very memorable holiday season.

In the Bonds, Maury Denton

2011

Thomas H. Pace

2008

Robert Hill Class of 2009: Vincent Abruzzese and family at his promotion to major.

Greetings from a chilly Pennsylvania! I don’t have a lot to share this month, but the news I do have to share is joyful.

From Wisconsin, Jared Siebenaler and wife Natalie wanted to make the 246th birthday of the United States Marine Corps a little more special.

On Nov. 8, Natalie and Jared welcomed Everett Paul to their family with a little devil dog! Congrats to Jared and Natalie!

From Richmond, Olen Johnson and wife Sally expanded to a family of five Nov. 12. Leif Meyer Johnson tipped the scales at 7 pounds. Leif joins sisters Juliet Mae, who arrived in June 2020, and Olivia. Congrats to the Johnson family!

Tommy Cunningham was part of a flyover for the Major League Baseball playoffs. As part of the U.S Air Force Materiel Command, Tommy was part of a team to fly over a Dodgers versus Braves game in Los Angeles Oct. 19. Tommy is currently stationed at Edwards Air Force Base.

Short and sweet!

God bless! Rah Virginia Mil!

2009

your families well. I have had a lot of interactions with our class this go-around.

Vincent Abruzzese PCS’d to Joint Base Andrews and will serve as the chief of victim and witness policy at the Military Justice Law and Policy Division. He recently was promoted to major Nov. 1, 2021, at a ceremony at the Air Force Memorial in Arlington, Virginia. He sent a picture of his parents (father is VMI Class of ’74) and fiancée at the promotion. He also said he was excited to announce that he recently got engaged to his new fiancée, Julie, and is looking forward to their wedding in May 2022.

Well, that is all I got for this edition. I hope everyone is out doing great things. Stay safe and hope to see you all soon.

2010

Brandon Page Garland Gray III

Bradley Simpson

Brother Rats: I hope this edition of the Review finds you and

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Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the Class of 2010.

2011, I want to thank Chad Lawson and Julian Bowers for organizing the best 10th Reunion the Institute has ever seen. The turnout was incredible. It was great to see so many of y’all there to see VMI win another football game.

David E. Gerardo, regimental commander, cadet first captain, and a mechanical engineering major from Fairfax, Virginia, recently celebrated the baptism of his baby boy, Aaron.

Lansing Wilson ran the Marine Corps Marathon, and raised more than a thousand dollars to the Tunnels to Towers charity. Thanks for all who donated and supported that race.

Chris Moser wants everyone to make sure to thank Vinnie Do for his service and congratulate him, as the CW3 list came out with his name on there. He says, “Hope you guys had a great reunion weekend and sad that I couldn’t be there to celebrate for the second one in a row. Hopefully 15 will be different.

Just know that I had a good reason in our newborn, who isn’t really ready to travel long distances yet. Dana and I would like to announce that Theodore James Moser was born Aug. 19 at 8 pounds and 20 inches length. The future Keydet of ’36+3 has been growing like a weed and looks forward to meeting all of his aunts and uncles of the glorious Class of 2011 over the next few years.”

Patrick Luegers was first.

Congrats also to Woody Hall who pinned on major in the Marine Corps recently. He still gets his ID checked when seeing PG-13 movies in the theater.

Hunter Davis is graduating with honors from the University of New Orleans with a Master of Business Administration degree. He was just offered a job with Edison Chouest Offshore, which is a major shipbuilding company with some incredibly high-tech/high-value operations all over the world.

Bo Wren and Steve Sargent dominated at a VMI bass fishing tournament, putting at least 25 fish in the boat.

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Class of 2011: Robert Anthes, David Arthur, Burton Bacheller, Nicholas Bates, Carl Biggs, Michael Blue, James Boatright, James Bost, Julian Bowers, Robert Boyer, Timothy Brust, Nadine Buse, Jason Cobb, Christopher Conte, Cody Davis, Matthew Deacon, Steven Duke, Zipporah Ellsworth, Joshua Geher, David Gerardo, Kyle Gianni, Sean Purnell, Brodie Gleason, Terrance Green, Brandon Griffith, William Hagan, Christopher Hall, Bruce Hazelgrove, James Hefner, Nicholas Ingold, Thomas Carnes, Christopher John, Fredy Jurkowitsch, Samuel Kang, Adam Kruithof, Chad Lawson, Patrick Leugers, John Manning, David Martin, David McCown, Travis Miller, Christopher Milligan, Denis O’Reilly, Thomas Pace, Philip Parker, Matthew Parmer, Spilman Pumphrey, Matthew Radi, John Rushton, Kenneth Sadler, Stephen Sargent, Colin Sexton, David Stecher, Matthew Talbott, Patrick Terhune, Justin Topping, William Walker, Korey Wessel, Patrick Winkler, Robert Wren, and Hisham Yousif.

Class Notes

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Class Notes

Class of 2011: Bo Wren and Steve Sargent at a bass fishing tournament.

Matt Talbott and I tied for worst score ever at the Buena Vista Links golf course. Thank God for the eight-stroke limit Julian Bowers set.

I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas.

Rah Virginia Mil. Long live the “’tute.”

2012

Bruce Howard

Brother Rats, I hope this edition of the Review finds you and your families well.

A big thank you to Will Wild for providing me with updates on many of our BRs. I appreciate all the help with this edition and the occasional trash talk!

First off, congratulations to Jack Boswell and his wife, Maddie, who are expecting their third child, which will be another boy! We look forward to future tailgates where all three Boswell boys are marching parades.

Benjamin Denton has taken up sailing and is planning on sailing around the world while sampling the finest wines. He has expanded his family to a cat named Alamo and dog named Luna! We wish them fair winds and following seas on their future adventures.

Justin Dwight recently earned his pilot’s license and plans on meeting Ben Denton on his travels.

Justin is also signaling some interest in becoming an oyster farmer. That was developed during a

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Keydet dove hunt; however, I’m told there is some concern about in-house consumption. We wish him the best of luck!

Yohan Colon is thriving in Mexico with his current venture as a vending machine tycoon. He is looking at expanding his operation into Southern Texas. Colon has also added to the family and recently acquired a furry feline companion named Carmine. You can follow Carmine on Instagram @CarmineTheMobKitty. I’m told it’s worth a visit by every cadet, and he is also pulling for Justin’s oyster farm to be a complete success!

Quinn Adams is living his best life in Richmond with his wife, Danielle. Their dog, William Howard “Howie” Taft Adams, is considering a summer internship as a model for Pedigree Dog Food. We are told this is the equivalent of being scouted for the Gerber Baby and could possibly lead to some full-time roles in local access television commercials and voice acting. I look forward to any successes coming out of the Adams family in the future!

Ross Stolle is recently engaged! His fiancée, Emily, could not possibly be more lovely of a person. We wish them well and hope Emily’s family has the patience to put up with a Keydet wedding this spring.

Mark Schumacher has transitioned out of the Marine Corps and completed his Master of Business Administration degree from The College of William and Mary! He is recently married and is living with his wife, Kelsey, in Richmond. I’m told he thoroughly enjoys having Keydets as neighbors and prefers to keep it that way.

Chris Baber has completed his Master of

Class of 2012: Bruce and Alissa Howard with their son, Tripp Bruce Howard.

Business Administration degree from the University of Richmond and is living in Short Pump with his wife, Catherine. Chris enjoys no longer living in a submarine and has taken up making “craft pizza.”

Will Wild is currently enrolled in the MBA program at the University of Richmond. Due to low voter turnout and a likely misunderstanding, Will is now the president of the Student Leadership Council for the University of Richmond MBA. Feel free to reach out to him if you have any interest in the program or have any questions; however, ask at your own risk!

David Yost is recently engaged! We look forward to David and Ann’s wedding and the shenanigans that will certainly ensue. Word on the street is that the future Yosts are having Central Virginia’s finest Jimmy Buffett tribute band, Fin and the Volcanoes, play the reception. Guests are encouraged to bring your dancing shoes and your best Hawaiian shirt. It is sure to be a wedding for the ages. Also, keep up the good work as a teacher and coach of America’s future best and brightest!

Jacob Barton is currently working as a contractor for the Air Force in Ohio. He can still be relied upon for some lively stories around a campfire, accompanied by the most accurate impressions of foreign accents you’ve ever heard.

Michael Bowman is still living and working in the D.C. metro area with his wife, Amanda. Bowman has taken up woodworking as a hobby and is making some seriously impressive stuff. Upon request, he is available to make handcrafted courtyard stick ball bats. Get your orders in before the reunion—refunds are not available, and prices may vary.

Joey Fleshman is still serving in the Navy Office of Legislative Affairs at the Pentagon. He was promoted to O-4 lieutenant commander Sept. 1.

Joey and his family are living in Falls Church and continues to stay in touch with his fellow BRs, including an occasional dinner with Brandon Butler. Congrats, Joey!

I always feel awkward including updates about myself but thought this one qualified. My wife, Alissa, and I welcomed a son into the world this past September. We are happy to announce Tripp Bruce Howard is healthy and can’t wait to make his first visit up to Lexington next September for our class reunion. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate one’s first birthday than being surrounded by a bunch of Keydets!

Which bring me to the final topic of discussion—

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Class Notes our 10th Reunion. This will be set for Sept. 16-17, 2022. Everyone should have received information regarding the reunion and specific details by the time this Alumni Review is printed. If you have any questions or can help reach out to BRs who maybe don’t have updated contact information, please let me know. I look forward to seeing all of you in September!

I appreciate those who sent information to share with the class. I look forward to hearing from more of you before the next edition. Take care and until next time!

In the Bonds, Bruce

2013

Class of 2014: The five-inch heels Johnny Partin wore to the 5K. Class of 2013: Chelsea Bates and Josh Bates at Josh’s white coat ceremony in 2019.

Charles Jones

2013, I’ve recently been asked by several folks what the plan is for our next reunion. We’re still a while away, but for those curious, go ahead and mark your calendar for fall 2023. If you’re interested in getting involved or helping to plan, don’t hesitate to reach out.

I always enjoy highlighting success stories from members of our class and recently received an update that Chelsea Bates was named to the Erie, Pennsylvania, “40 Under 40” for her work in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a public health preparedness coordinator for the Erie County Department of Health, she works with a variety of local agencies to determine priorities and identify gaps in public health preparedness based on CDC and state guidance. Chelsea and Josh Bates moved to Erie, Pennsylvania, in 2018, where Josh is attending Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.

In October, I had the pleasure of attending the wedding of Logan Sorensen and his wife, Taylor, in Newport News. In attendance were numerous VMI grads, including Robert Kanter, Mario Thompson, Thomas Hulcher, Phil Pickens, Sam Pace ’11, and others. It was hard to believe it was the first time I had gotten to see all of my roommates in one place in over five years—but not hard to believe that it was a great time.

I recently moved to Augusta, Georgia, to take command at Fort Gordon. If you’re in the area,

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Class of 2013: Logan Sorensen and his wife, Taylor, on their wedding day in October 2021.

Class of 2014: Matt Reardon and Johnny Partin at the finish line for the City Point 5K in Hopewell, Virginia.

don’t think twice about reaching out! As always, if you have anything you’d like included in these notes, don’t hesitate to send me an email. The next round will be due in mid-February.

little over 17-and-a-half minutes. Johnny decided to walk for the cause and increase domestic violence and breast cancer awareness. He walked the entire 5K in 5-inch heels in 1 hour and 5 minutes!

Not once did he fall or twist an ankle!

2014

Samuel Guidry

2015

Henry Meredith Thomas Bradshaw Johnny McDonald

Matt Reardon, Johnny Partin, and Allison Partin ’17 all participated in the City Point 5K in Hopewell, Virginia, over Halloween weekend.

Matt won first place overall with a run time of a

Brother Rats, Hope everyone is well. My wife and I continue to enjoy Raleigh; please reach out if you make

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

2016

Jacob Norris Patrick Hine

Class of 2015: Violet Nova Wilson, daughter of Justin Wilson.

Class of 2015: Minghanbo Liu, Blake Andersen, Clark Chen, and Luke Bijelic at Fort Bragg.

BRs, These are the first notes since our first major reunion, and I hope everyone who attended your way down to the triangle area of had a fantastic time. I was not able to atNorth Carolina! As I write this, we’re tend last minute, but between the stories gearing to head up to VMI for the Thanksand the videos I received, I was glad to see giving football game tailgate with a few everyone enjoying themselves together BRs and their significant others. Stand by again. for a photo in the next Review; hopefully First up on our list is a baby announcewe can get a picture of the boys behaving ment for Tony Bianchi and his wife, themselves.

Paige, who welcomed their daughter, In big news, Justin Wilson’s wife gave Rowyn Beverly Bianchi, to the world this birth to their daughter, Violet Nova WilAugust. son, Sept. 20, 2021! Congrats again, JusConnor Norris, who originally comtin. All the best wishes for you and your missioned in the Air Force in 2017, has family.

Class of 2015: BRs Kelly MacKenzie, Tyler Vartuli, Christopher Urayoan Garcia picked up golfing Stowell, Jacob Stetson, Matthew Nobile, and Michael Souza, recommissioned and is now an officer of the U.S. Space Force and is currently staback in May and has since then played 72 all holding up Nicolas Peek at his wedding. tioned at Vandenberg Space Force Base in rounds of golf. Hopefully he can make it up to the annual (?) Richmond VMI alumni golf tournament next year.

Clark Chen, Hunter Liu, and Luke Bijelic all graduated from the Army’s Civil Affairs Qualification Course this past year. Clark also just returned from SERE school, as well. The three BRs and Blake Andersen are living their best lives at Fort Bragg. They’re sending good vibes to everyone!

Nicolas Peek just barely missed the cutoff for getting his big updates into the Review last quarter. He relocated to southern New Hampshire and got married to the woman of his dreams! They and the BRs in attendance lucked out with perfect weather; while it rained the days before and after, the day of was crystal clear.

That’s it for these notes! Ping me if you need your address/contact info updated. And to all my married BRs, best of luck in negotiations as you divide time between you and in-laws over the holiday season. Remember to listen and be patient!

Class of 2016: Eric Friese and his wife, Class of 2015: Nicolas Peek and his wife, Rah Virginia Mil, Jasmine.

Leila.

Henry Meredith

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197

Class of 2016: Philip Anderson, Jackson Bartlett, Jacob Burton, Connor Chow, Jack Crowley, Connor Culley, James Daniels, Loran Dreelin, Zachary Dunlevy, Zachary Frey, William Gregory, Patrick Hine, Austin Holmes, Giustino Iuliano, Jackson Kim, Travis Klein, Joseph Kluckowski, James Latta, Jonathan Lohr, Bennett Lynde, Joseph Matthews, John Mildrum, Jackson Morgan, Mark Nytko, Aidan O’Connor, Michael Piemonte, Anthony Protogyrou, Thomas Rasche, Daniel Robinson, Dominic Romeo, Trey Rose, Christopher Siebert, Christine Smith, Michaela Speas, Ian Westbrook, and Jonathan Winalski.

Class Notes

198

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes tech. He is deciding on post-MBA relocation but has narrowed it down to New York City, Boston, Miami, or Charlotte. Kids: 0 Warren Jackson is wrapping up Field Artillery Captain’s Career Course. Abigail and Warren celebrated their first anniversary in November! Then will be moving to Korea for two years in February and will unfortunately not be able to attend the 5th Reunion. They have one dog and zero kids.

Donovan Robinson is living in Auburn, Alabama, and graduating in the summer from Auburn University with a Ph.D. in chemistry. He will be married one year by Thanksgiving with no kids.

Class of 2016: Mike Piemonte, Joe Boswell, Eric Friese, Zach Kaplan, and David Harpen at Friese’s wedding.

California as a mission director with the 4th Space Control Squadron. He is going to pin on captain Nov. 17 and has his master’s degree in education of mathematics underway at JMU. Evan Thompson made a slight career change from EOD officer to heading to physician assistant school for the Army. He is currently at Fort Sam Houston where his daughter, Savannah, started kindergarten. Cole Thompson is an “unstoppable force of love and terror” and Kassie, Evan’s wife, started her own small business selling women’s clothes.

Eric Friese married his wife, Jasmine Friese, in Richmond, Virginia, Aug. 14. In attendance were Mike Piemonte, Joe Boswell, Zach Kaplan, and David Harpen.

Thank you to everyone who submitted notes this time around, and please reach out to a fellow BR if anyone is struggling.

2017

Benjamin Stewart

Dakoda Lane is living in Bumpass, Virginia, with his wife, Kate, and dog, Drac. He is working for Barton Malow Builders as a project engineer and still serving in the National Guard with 157th Engineer Platoon. and as a volunteer firefighter with his local firehouse, Company 4: Holly Grove.

Collyn Dashner returned from a deployment with the 10th Mountain Division in January 2021, graduated Military Police Captain’s Career Course in October, and is PCSing from Fort Drum to Fort

2022-Issue 1

Leavenworth. He will serve in the 15th Military Police Brigade. He is married to Jackie Dashner and has one child, Maddie, who is 2 years old.

Jamie Schmitz is still living and working in North Augusta, South Carolina, as a software developer, itching to move on and find work elsewhere. He is working on various electrical/software projects, hiking, biking, traveling, and camping in his free time.

Matt Lombardi is currently loving life while assigned to 11th Transportation Battalion located at the fabulous Fort Story, Virginia, in Virginia Beach. The amazing Kayla Ryan Lombardi and Matt will be celebrating their fifth wedding anniversary May 19, 2022. They have two beautiful daughters, Nixon Shae (2) and Delta James (6 months)!

Michael Connolly recently picked up and moved to Seattle, Washington, with his fiancée, Jessie, and their dog, Sean. Looking forward to great hiking and even better coffee.

Sebastian Chavez is wrapping up his Master of Business Administration degree and working in

Class of 2017: Sierra and Nick Mullet, Mike Swinney, and Daniel King at a meetup in Manassas, Virginia.

2018

Carlee Anderson Matt Esnardo

Class of 2018, Happy autumn, everyone. For those still in the Virginia area, I hope the changing red and orange colors of the leaves look incredible just like it did when we were all still in school.

I just recently returned from Tripp Fitch’s wedding where he got married to his now-wife, Kalisa. Attendance included Luke Lysher, Luke Phillips ’17, Micah Ellington, Garrett Briggs, Olivia Emery ’17, Brandon White ’17, Elizabeth Johnston ’17, Collin Emrich, Josh Willard, and Jay Broom. It was great catching up with the BRs, watching Luke (both of them) dad move dancing, and making fun of FRB, even though he wasn’t there. More importantly,

Class of 2018: Kennedy Smith and Daniel Bowen’s newborn, Joseph Bowen.

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Class Notes it was an honor getting to see our dude Tripp get married.

Baby news: Samantha Pacheco, née Brisco, and Anthony Pacheco ’15 welcomed their first child, Ivan Alexander Pacheco, May 18, 2021. He weighed in at 9 pounds, 7 ounces. Sam and Tony are expecting their second son in April 2022.

Caleb Baldwin welcomed a baby Aug. 24, 2021. Beckett Ware Baldwin was born at 9 pounds, and 21-and-a- Class of 2018: Tripp Fitch’s wedding. half inches.

Kennedy Smith and Daniel Bowen welcomed their second child, Joseph, Sept. 7. Congrats to all the parents and their newborns!

Steven Foster graduated law school and passed the Washington, D.C., bar exam.

Alan Lloyd became engaged to Julia Tulia in May and has also moved to Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, to be chief of requirements for Second Air Force.

Ross Condrey and C.J. Szalankiewicz went on a date at a rugby match.

Tyler DeJoe and his wife are expecting a baby this coming January. He also most recently provided overwatch in support of the Kabul, Afghanistan, evacuation. We thank Tyler and the rest of those who supported in the Afghanistan withdrawal.

Class of 2018: Caleb and Haley Baldwin with their newborn, Beckett Ware Baldwin.

Class of 2018: Samantha Pacheco, née Brisco, and Anthony Pacheco ’15 welcomed their first child, Ivan Alexander Pacheco.

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Class of 2018: Kaitlyn Morrison married Erik Stein ’17.

Erik Stein ’17 and Kaitlyn Morrison got married Oct. 22! In attendance included Lt. Col. William “Bill” Bither, Nina Srikongyos ’15 (Kaitlyn’s dyke and also known as “S6 bae”), Eric Inman ’17, and more! Kaitlyn and Erik began dating while at school and began a long-distance relationship after Erik reported to flight school aboard Naval Air Station Pensacola, Florida. Meanwhile back home, Kaitlyn was hard at work with her own studies in nursing school. After receiving his naval aviator wings, commonly referred to as “wings of gold,” Erik received orders to Norfolk, Virginia, and proposed to Kaitlyn Nov. 25, 2020. Additionally, Kaitlyn works as an intensive care unit nurse serving on the front lines with COVID-19 patients every day.

Carlee and I actually got to hang out a little bit while I was out in Yuma, Arizona, for the Weapons and Tactics Instructor Course. Other random VMI people out at WTI were Josh Heinz and Amy Horney. I got to watch her drop parachutes.

A quick story: I was dropping off my WTI roommate, Chaz, who was the team lead for this training evolution. He was going to the main building for an intel update before the execution of the raid we were supporting. The day before was our planning cycle, and it didn’t go as smoothly as I was hoping. Because of this and general exhaustion, I was in an incredibly bad mood. As I was dropping of Chaz, this “dadlooking” dude with a Ted Lasso mustache started waving me down from a distance. I begrudgingly continued in a parking position, thinking it was someone who was trying to do last-minute coordination that I really didn’t want to do. He started lightly jogging, really adding to that dad feel. As I rolled down the window, he says to me, “Hey, Matt, what’s up?” In a matter of seconds, my bad mood went away, as our own Joey Brown was here to brighten up my day. Long story short, Joey’s unit was assigned to be the infantry battalion to support the WTI evolutions, and we had the opportunity to work with each other.

This interaction just reminded me that no matter where you are, you can’t really get away from VMI, but that’s not always the worst thing in the world, is it? #Mizpah.

Matt and Carlee

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

2019

Nathan D.A. Mumford Annika K. Tice

to point out. To start, anytime you fly through Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, think of Matthew Zwiren, who left the 1-9 fingerprint on the now complete construction of its new main concourse. Matt, congrats on making Nichols proud!

We have some other BRs out here living up to the citizen-soldier mindset by completing marathons recently. Congratulations to John Keefe and Tyler Hamilton on this truly impressive physical feat. It would be remiss of us to leave out our two new Ironmen in the class: Gunnar Eichler (who also broke the bike record for that race while simultaneously placing third in his age group) and Jake Johnson. Y’all are carrying that banner for us all.

Additionally, and finally, we have Ben Cordle, who just recently started a business making holsters, Romeo Bravo Holster Company.

Small reminder: Our 5th Reunion planning window is quickly approaching, so be on the lookout for some email traffic regarding that.

A lot has happened for us all these last few months, and it’s in times like these that we can lean on friends, family, and BRs. On behalf of the alumni and 1-9 community, we are always here whenever you need us; please do not hesitate to reach out. If you have any updates or pictures you’d like to share with us, please shoot either me (mumfordnd19@gmail.com), Annika (atice280@gmail.com), or the 1-9 Instagram (@vmiclassof19) a note! We look forward to hearing from you, and as always, mizpah.

2020 Alexander Dragan Holly K. Njabo

BRs! It feels so great to write to you again after a brief hiatus. I’m sure we’re all experiencing the shifting tides of balancing work/life (civilian Editor’s Note: We did not receive notes for the or military) in a pandemic, but BRs make it a Class of 2020. little easier. I’d like to give a special shout-out to Bryan Munoz, Maddy Curran O’Neill, Logan Amico, Gunnar Eichler, Colton Curry, and Nate Kirk for keeping me sane these last few months. Now, let’s jump into this note; we have Jonathan Krauss a lot to catch up on together!

To start with engagements, we have quite a Levi Kennedy few BRs who are embarking on new adventures with their loved ones. Congratulations to Ryan Russell on his engagement to his fiancée, Christine Michak; Joe Phillips and his fiancée, Susie Kemper; a special VMI engagement between Demetra Protogyrou and Jon Harrington ’18; Sarah Dolitsky and her fiancée, Leah Coulee; Brother Rats, and a special shout-out goes to a 1-9 pending Happy holidays! First off, I want to congratulate union, Virginia Villani and Matthew Zwiren! our brother rats who are graduating in December We wish all of you love and blessings on this and those who are taking the full victory lap and new step in your lives and can’t wait to celebrate graduating in May 2022! It seems like everyone your futures together. is finished getting settled into their We also had quite a few unions life after VMI. certified (aka weddings) since our Jonah Eger recently arrived in last class note, as well. We want San Diego, California, where he is to congratulate Bobby Fricke and attending Basic Division Officer’s Zachary McBride on their wedCourse before meeting his ship, the dings. They both were beautiful destroyer USS Russell. and clearly full of love (and BRs).

Sam Slagle, Josh Toohey, Ben Two new 1-9 legacies were Solis, Kyle Donnelly, Brandon brought into the world recently: Hornung, Landon KnappenbergDeclan O’Neill (son of Maddy er, LeAndrew Jefferson, Parker Curran O’Neill and Peter O’Neill Holcomb, and Jesse Cornell have ’18) and the pending arrival of all settled into the Basic School a beautiful baby boy to Kori aboard Marine Corps Base QuanGehman. We’re so happy to see tico and just celebrated the 246th the new life you guys are bringbirthday of the Marine Corps. ing to us, and I’m sure the Alumni Semper Fi! Agencies can’t wait to send out Our Army brother rats had some their provisional appointments. major accomplishments, too. Jacob Our class has also had a few Class of 2019: Members of the class gather for a mini reunion in Texas.

Mills, Kevin Rae, Zane Bouregy, special life highlights we want

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2021

201

Class Notes Brahn Kush, Jackson Jennings, and and Aldo Vidro graduated from miliRobby Peterson had quite the adventary police training. ture recently. The trio drove in shifts Graduating from field artillery are to Colorado in 31 hours flat, stopping Sam Moreira, Mason Day, Reid only for gas. While in Colorado, they Johnson, Palmer Jackson, and Alan stopped in to see Aiden and Zack Wyche. Alan got a slot to go to Ranger Webb in Castle Rock. There they School. hiked Mount Bierstadt, a 14,000-foot I talked to Seth Whitehurst not too summit. Robby did it all in Crocs, 7 long ago; he arrived safely to South miles round trip! After saying goodbye Korea and is getting acclimated to his to the Webb brothers, the trio drove new home. to Albuquerque, New Mexico, to stay Paul Boucher recently ran the Boise with Jackson’s sister. After that, they Marathon! I see the Monday and Fridrove to San Diego, California, to see day Army PT sessions paid off. Paul Noah Breeding. There, they went out has been working for the state of Idaho to Moonshine Flats for a night of fun. staffing the redistricting commission, After saying goodbye to Jackson as he which draws the new political lines reported to Los Angeles for the Space based on the census. In January, he will Force, the gang ended the trip by exhead to Fort Huachuca. ploring Sunken City in Long Beach, Jacob Lamountain and Cory IanClass of 2021: Brahn Kush, Aidan Webb, and Robby Peterson enjoyCalifornia, an area of buildings and notta both got engaged recently. Con- ing the West Coast views. highway that sunk off the side of some gratulations! cliffs into the ocean.

Josh Lassiter and Sadie Sandifer ’20 were It is so exciting to see all of you fulfilling your married May 18 with Caleb Blank as his best goals and dreams. As winter nears and the days man, and his roommates, Frank Landymore and get shorter and shorter, make sure to check in on Palmer Jackson, as his groomsmen. After a short your brother rats you haven’t spoken to in a while. stint in Virginia, they moved to Tinker Air Force Keep the brother rat spirit alive and well this holiBase, Oklahoma, for their first assignment as a day season. I hope you all had a thankful Thanksgold bar diversity recruiter. In July, Josh will be giving, a merry Christmas, and a happy new year heading north to Vance Air Force Base, Oklahoas we move into 2022. ma. to attend undergraduate pilot training flying Mizpah, the T-6 Texan. Congratulations, both of you!

Jonathan Krauss

Class of 2021: Brahn Kush, Aidan Webb, and Robby Peterson at the summit of Mount Bierstadt.

Class of 2021: Paul Boucher (left) running the Boise Marathon.

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Class of 2021: Palmer Jackson, Reid Johnson, Alan Wyche, Mason Day, and Sam Moreira graduated from field artillery school. Alan Wyche got a slot to go to Ranger School.

Class of 2021: Josh Lassiter and Sadie Sandifer ’20 were married May 18, 2021.

VMI Alumni Review

Class Notes

Baby Keydets OVERSTREET—A son, Logan Kent, to Kelly and Derek Overstreet ’03, Oct. 26, 2021.

BOWEN—A son, Joseph, to Daniel Bowen ’17 and Kennedy Smith ’18, Sept. 7, 2021.

COMPARIN—A son, Beckham Vallin, to Fred and Erica Ardolino Comparin ’04 Nov. 14, 2021.

BALDWIN—A son, Beckett Ware Baldwin, to Haley and Caleb Baldwin ’18, Aug. 24, 2021.

WALTON—A son, Krew Minkah, to Marci and Jamaal Walton ’07, March 8, 2020.

SIEBENALER—A son, Everett Paul, to Natalie and Jared Siebenaler ’08, Nov. 8, 2021.

JOHNSON—A son, Leif Meyer, to Sally and Olen Johnson ’08, Nov. 12, 2021.

HOWARD—A son, Tripp Bruce, to Alissa and Bruce Howard ’12, Sept. 22, 2021.

PACHECO—A son, Ivan Alexander, to Samantha Brisco Pacheo ’18 and Anthony Pacheco ’15, May 18, 2021.

25th Anniversary of Women at VMI Save the Date!

Aug. 18-20, 2022 vmialumni.org/25years

BIANCHI—A daughter, Rowyn Beverly, to Paige and Tony Bianchi ’16 Aug. 20, 2021.

VMI’s 10 Most Senior Alumni According to the records of the VMI Alumni Agencies, the people listed below constitute the 10 senior alumni of the Institute.

Please contact the Alumni Review staff if any errors are noted.

Jack N. Williams ’41

Sept. 8, 1920

John M. Patton ’42

Sept. 14, 1921

Fred H. Lockwood ’44

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May 3, 1922

Allan E. Ferrey ’46

June 23, 1922

Floyd D. Gottwald Jr. ’43

July 29, 1922

George A. Crane Jr. ’44

Nov. 23, 1922

Robert W. Smothers ’44

Dec. 2, 1922

Robert G. Moore ’45

June 15, 1923

James W. Tinsley ’45

Oct. 18, 1923

Jule C. Spach ’46

Dec. 21, 1923

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Provisional Appointments APPOINTEE’S NAME

ALUMNUS-CLASS

RELATIONSHIP

2026 William E. Welsh III

William E. Welsh Sr. ’64

Grandfather

Collins R. Appleton

Grace Hoffman

William E. Welsh Sr. ’64

Grandfather

Evan P. Gottwald

Vernon L. Beitzel ’72

Uncle

Thomas E. Gottwald ’83

Grandfather

Thomas E. Williams ’44

Great-grandfather

Bruce C. Gottwald Sr. ’54

Great-grandfather

Thomas M.W. Hill ’64

Grandfather

Edward P. Gottwald ’14

Father

Chandler W. Hill ’927

Great-grandfather

Thomas D. Gottwald ’09

Uncle

John B.C. Hill ’70

Great-uncle

Bruce C. Gottwald Jr. ’81

Great-uncle

David A. Hoffman ’00

Father

Thomas E. Hays Jr. ’57

Great-great-uncle

Floyd D. Gottwald Jr. ’43

Great-great-uncle

William H. Clarke ’859

Great-great-great-

2029 Vahin Middough

RELATIONSHIP

2043

2028 Chandler D. Hill

ALUMNUS-CLASS

2042

2027 Anna K. Welsh

APPOINTEE’S NAME

Jason L. Middough ’97

Father

great-great-greatgreat-uncle

2030 Lila K. Hill

John H. Welsh 2032 Thomas Hoffman

Thomas M.W. Hill ’64 Chandler W. Hill ’927 John B.C. Hill ’70 William E. Welsh Sr. ’64

Grandfather Great-grandfather Great-uncle Grandfather Caroline F. Harrell

David A. Hoffman ’00

Father

William D. Gottwald Jr. ’56

Cousin

William D. Gottwald III ’84

Cousin

John T. Gottwald ’90

Cousin

Alexander H. Williams Jr. ’42

Great-great-uncle

John D. Williams ’45

Great-great-uncle

Winston W. Harrell ’04

Father

Richard O. Harrell Jr. ’938

Great-grandfather

Andrew R. Holderby III ’915

Great-great-

Winston W. Harrell ’04

Father

Richard O. Harrell Jr. ’938

Great-grandfather

Andrew R. Holderby III ’915

Great-great-

grandfather

2035 Charlotte C. Whitmore

Neil D. Whitmore ’90

Father

Joanna M. Harrell

2037 Joseph T. Appleton

Vernon L. Beitzel ’72

Uncle

grandfather Michael D. Thomas ’79

Uncle

James E.C. Leavitt III ’79

Grandfather

Elliot J. Lindemann

Vincent D. Carag Jr. ’86

Grandfather

Harris M. Morgan

Martin J. Morgan ’86

Grandfather

Zachary R. Morgan ’11

Father

Miles W. King

2039 Avery J. Appleton James G. Meek IV Ian S. Smith

Vernon L. Beitzel ’72

Uncle

David W. Hinchee ’81

Grandfather

Trevor S. Smith ’19

Father

Charles S. Smith ’90

Grandfather

2041 Elizabeth H. Meek

204

David W. Hinchee ’81

Grandfather

Hunter A. Morgan ’16

Uncle

Cash T. Schuchart

John H. Dixon ’81

Grandfather

Samuel D. Speas

Michaela D. (Wright) Speas ’16

Mother

Aurora S. Yoffe

Holly A. (Giacolone) Yoffe ’09

Mother

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Robert L. Reeves ’43 Robert Legare Reeves ’43, M.D., of Tumwater, Washington, died Sept. 13, 2021. He was 99.

He matriculated from Madison, New Jersey.

He was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry. He earned a Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his son, Robert Legare Reeves Jr.; daughters, Catherine Reeves Rule, Ana Reeves (Charvelle), and Elizabeth Reeves Hansen; grandchildren; and greatgrandchildren.

William C. Winter Jr. ’43 William Chisholm Winter Jr. ’43, M.D., of New Braunfels, Texas, died Oct. 25, 2021.

He was 99.

He matriculated from Charlotte, North Carolina, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Baylor University and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Medical College of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Judy, and son, Bruce.

Daniel C. Walser Jr. ’45 Daniel Charles Walser Jr. ’45 of Bethesda, Maryland, died Sept. 1, 2021. He was 97.

He matriculated from Chevy Chase, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Harvard University.

He is survived by his children, Deidre Adkins (Paul), Daniel Charles Walser III (Lori), Tracey Nugent (Jamey), Pamela Klinedienst (Steve), and Melanie Reeves; 11 grandchildren; and one great-grandson.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Constance “Connie” Seckinger Walser.

Edward G. Cortright Jr. ’48B The Hon. Edward Greenfield Cortright Jr. ’48B of Madison, Mississippi, died Aug. 11, 2021. He was 94.

He matriculated from Yazoo City, Mississippi, and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Mississippi and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann Holmes Cortright; children, Elise Hendrickson, Mary Nell Pickard (Jo G.), and Ed Cortright; grandchildren, Daniel Hendrickson

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(Kathryn), David Prichard (Bridgette), Sara Hendrickson, and Emily Cortright; five greatgrandchildren; step-grandchildren, Gibson Prichard (JoDee) and Graham Prichard; and four step-great-grandchildren.

Douglas G. Johnson ’49B Douglas Gunter Johnson ’49B of Sanford, North Carolina, died July 17, 2021. He was 93.

He matriculated from Sanford and spent more than one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Virginia; children, Tanya McDowell (Steve), Belinda Bond (David), and Duran Johnson (Sharon); grandchildren, Ashley Petrilyak (Stephen), Zachary McDowell (Ame), Hunter Bond, Owen Bond, Cameron Bond, Dakota Johnson, and Colby Johnson; and great-grandchildren, Kylie, Sadie, Wyatt, and Evie.

Aug. 3, 2021. He was 92.

He matriculated from Pewee Valley, Kentucky, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from National College.

He is survived by his wife, Genene Latta Morton; children, Stephanie Moriarty (Chas), Russell Lee Morton (Diane), and Craig Anthony Morton (Cynthia); grandchildren, Megan Moriarty McNicholas (Tommy), Jeff Moriarty (Marissa), Daniella Morton, Paul Morton (Christee), and Erik Morton; and great-grandchildren, Nolan Moriarty, Colton Moriarty, Siena Moriarty, Emma McNicholas, and Scott McNicholas.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Steele Morton (Marion), and sister, Earlena Daniel (Channing).

Waldo B. Marshall II ’49B

Isaac N. Vaughan III ’50B

Waldo Brown Marshall II ’49B of Greencastle, Pennsylvania, died July 28, 2021. He was 93.

He matriculated from Front Royal, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, June Blevins Marshall; children, Anne, Andrew, Jane, and James; 11 grandchildren; and 11 greatgrandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Elizabeth Jones.

Isaac Newton Vaughan III ’50B of Huntsville, Alabama, died Sept. 4, 2021. He was 92.

He matriculated from Ashland, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Peggy; children, Curtis Vaughan (Olga) and Betsy Billmayer (Stefan); grandchildren, Rulan, Glafira, Victoria, Alex, Nicholas, and Hanns; and brother, Walton.

Thomas F. Drumwright Jr. ’50B Thomas Franklin Drumwright Jr. ’50B of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, died Oct. 1, 2021. He was 93.

He matriculated from Newport News, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from Ohio State University.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia Ryan Drumwright; son, Thomas Franklin Drumwright III (Cynthia); daughter, Kathryn Ryan Drumwright; and grandsons, Ryan Thomas Drumwright and Colin Lee Drumwright (Jessica).

He was preceded in death by his sisters, Norma Drumwright Parmley and Marian Drumwright Holzbach.

Russell S. Morton ’50B Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Russell Smith Morton ’50B of San Diego, California, died

Richard S. Valack ’52 Richard Steven Valack ’52 of Cape Charles, Virginia, died Oct. 14, 2021. He was 89.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Mary Catherine Ames Valack; children, Margaret McCoy Sitter, Catherine Ann Smith, and Richard S. Valack II ’89; grandchildren, Rebecca Kerschen (Ashley), Lauren Sitter, Michael Sitter (Sarah), and Jorie Smith; great-grandchild, Loretta Rose Sitter; and sister, Joyce Marie Holder.

William C. Park Jr. ’54 William Clarence Park Jr. ’54 of Denver, North Carolina, died June 28, 2020. He was 87.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and spent three years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Lucile Park; daughter, Kathy Hales; and sister, Desiree Park.

Richard C. Hyatt ’55 Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. Richard

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Taps Clark Hyatt ’55 of Billerica, Maryland, died May 19, 2021. He was 87.

He matriculated from Frederick, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the Air Force Institute of Technology.

He is survived by his wife, Mary Aborn-Hyatt; children, Brad Hyatt (Carla), Todd Hyatt, and Kent Hyatt (Tina); step-children, Rus Kinn, Allen Aborn, Mira Aborn, and Cathy Aborn; grandchildren, Michelle Hyatt, Lucero Hyatt, Marisol Hyatt, Dylan Hyatt, and Melissa Hyatt; great-grandchildren, Lilia Hyatt and Charlotte Hyatt; eight step-grandchildren; and four stepgreat-grandchildren.

Ronald D. Kincer ’55 Ronald David Kincer ’55 of Lexington, Kentucky, died Nov. 28, 2018. He was 85.

He matriculated from Whitesburg/Letcher County, Kentucky, and spent less than two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Kentucky.

He is survived by his wife, Connie Combs Kincer; mother, Myrtle Irene Davis Kincer; children, Kathi and Christopher; six grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren; and two sisters.

James L. McManaway ’55 Retired U.S. Marine Corps Col. James Lowry McManaway ’55 of Falls Church, Virginia, died Sept. 12, 2021. He was 88.

He matriculated from Heidelberg, Germany, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife.

James R. Parker Jr. ’55 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Robert “Jimmy” Parker Jr. ’55 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died July 27, 2021. He was 88.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from USC. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Henley Parker; children, Janice Parker Karr, James Parker III, Susan Parker Moyer, Daniel Parker, Lisa Parker, and Jennifer Parker Flannagan; 16 grandchildren; eight great-grandchildren; and Barbara’s children, seven grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Marjorie “Frankie” Parker, and daughter, Robyn Parker Williams.

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James S. Ramsey Jr. ’55 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Steele “Jim” Ramsey ’55 of Beckley, West Virginia, died Oct. 24, 2021. He was 89.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from the Command and General Staff College.

He is survived by his wife, Linda Bower Ramsey; daughters, Anna Renay Pugh (Frank), Tanya Leigh Brackman (Marcus), and Mary Elizabeth Barwick; and grandchildren, Meredith and Lt. Franklin Pugh, Eli and Jacob Brackman, and Reese and Lakin Barwick.

Hale O. Desonier ’56 Hale Olin Desonier ’56 of Asheville, North Carolina, died Aug. 27, 2021. He was 87.

He matriculated from New Iberia, Louisiana, and spent nearly five months at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Jane Colvin Desonier; children, Olin Jr. (Carol), David (Gloria), Beth Luke (Ringo), Suzanne, and Stephanie Privat (Ryan); step-children, Carla Bauer, Margaret Bauer (Andrew Morehead), Irene Casper (Trevor), and Ted Bauer (Cassie); 13 grandchildren and step-grandchildren; and sister, Barbara Davis.

William B. Makelim ’56 William Bond Makelim ’56 of Lake Forest, Illinois, died Feb. 17, 2021. He was 88.

He matriculated from Highland Park, Illinois, and spent more than one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his three children and two grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his wife.

John W. Emmerich ’57 John Walter Emmerich ’57 of Louisville, Kentucky, died Aug. 22, 2021. He was 85.

He matriculated from Buechel, Kentucky, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Mary Constance “Connie” Emmerich, and son, Stephen William “Steve” Emmerich.

He was preceded in death by his daughter, Pamela Anne “Pam” Emmerich, and sister, Greta Marshall.

Robert V. Wood ’57 Robert Victor Wood ’57 of Orange City, Florida, died in October 2021. He was 86.

He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, 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.

He is survived by his wife, Dorothy Carrico Wood; sons, Charles Victor Wood (Aime) and David Carrico Wood (Elizabeth); and grandchildren, Emmett Victor Wood, Sebastian Carrico Wood, and Isaiah David Wood.

James C. Kyle Jr. ’57 James Clifford Kyle Jr. ’57, Ph.D., of Poughkeepsie, New York, died Oct. 4, 2021.

He was 86.

He matriculated from Galax, Virginia, and was a distinguished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering. He earned a Doctor of Philosophy degree from Syracuse University.

He is survived by his wife, Diana.

David L. Camper ’58 David Lewis Camper ’58 of Mechanicsville, Virginia, died Aug. 15, 2021. He was 85.

He matriculated from Covington, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Barbara; daughters, Marilyn Rice (Jeff), Jeanine Graubics (K.G.), and Lynn Rhea (Todd); grandchildren, Matthew Rice (Jessica), Kendall Rice (Tracy), David Graubics, 1st Lt. Justin Graubics ’18 (Tahlia), Andrew Rhea, Austin Rhea, and Sarah Rhea; and great-grandchildren, Lawson and Leila Rice.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Richard M. Camper ’55, who died May 9, 1989.

Kenneth E. Godfrey ’58 Kenneth Edward Godfrey ’58 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died Aug. 18, 2021. He was 84.

He matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree and a Master of Science degree from George Washington University.

He is survived by his wife, Lorna Sheppard Godfrey; daughters, Laura Roy (Greg) and Tracy Quast; grandchildren, Jordan and Hayden; step-children, Jennifer Muskat (Charles) and James H. Johnson Jr. (Jill); step-grandchildren, Allen, Amanda, James, and Trey; and step-great-grandchild, Dune.

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Joseph G. Gray ’58 Retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Joseph G. Gray ’58 of Williamsburg, Virginia, and San Antonio, Texas, died Oct. 10, 2021. He was 85.

He matriculated from Shreveport, Louisiana, and attended VMI for one year. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from Northwestern State University and a Master of Strategic Studies degree from the U.S. Army War College.

He is survived by his wife, Betty; children, Steve ’86 (Robin), Jason ’89 (Wendy), and Lauren (Chris); grandchildren, Luke, Stefa, Stas ’19, Rachel, Grace, and Harrison; and great-grandchildren, Aimree and Nash.

He was preceded in death by his granddaughter, Tessa.

Bruce Haldeman II ’58 Bruce Haldeman II ’58 of Wilson, North Carolina, died Sept. 30, 2021. He was 85.

He matriculated from Glenview, Kentucky, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Barbara Olds Haldeman; son, Walter Charles Newman Haldeman III (Ella); daughter, Anne Haldeman Blackmon (David); grandchildren, Charles Walter Blackmon, Bruce Haldeman III, Davis Haldeman Blackmon, Aidan Spencer Blackmon, and Priscilla Mae Reyes (Joseph); and great-granddaughter, Alessandra Amelia Reyes.

Richard E. Adams ’59 Richard Edward “Ed” Adams ’59 of Greenville, North Carolina, died Aug. 18, 2021.

He was 84.

He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Lee Martin Adams; daughter, Shelley; son, Kirk (Edie); daughter-in-law, Linda; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Marilou Hubbard Adams; second wife, Katherine Wheeless Adams; and son, Rick Adams.

Robert J. Gianella ’60 Robert John “Bob” Gianella ’60 of Waco, Texas, died Oct. 5, 2021. He was 82.

He matriculated from Peekskill/Westchester, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry from VMI.

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He is survived by his wife, Betty; children, Stephnie Connell (Stephen) and Dr. Gabrielle Gianella (Cinthya); and grandchildren, Christian Connell, Isabella Connell, and Debbie Guzman.

Jerry L. Lawson ’60 Jerry Livingstone Lawson ’60 of Fredericksburg, Virginia, died Sept. 27, 2021. He was 82.

He matriculated from Quantico, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Julia; brother, Ralph; and other family members.

William B. Rawlings Jr. ’62 William Byrd Rawlings Jr. ’62 of Asheville, Virginia, died Aug. 18, 2021. He was 81.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and spent two years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Sandra Rawlings; children, Byrd Rawlings III (Jenny), Lee Johnson (Jeff), Paige Alspaugh (Dean), and Scotty Rawlings (Kumi); grandchildren, Emily, Williams, Sarah, Caroline, and Coburn Burroughs, Margaret Rawlings, Coco, Peter, and Whitney Johnson, Owen, Clay and Sayres Alspaugh, and Burton and Tobi Rawlings; great-granddaughter, Isabelle Grace; and siblings, Peter Rawlings, Isabel Cohen, Ann Colby, and Polly Hamel.

David E. Pierce ’62 David Ellis Pierce ’62 of Chesapeake, Virginia, died Aug. 25, 2021. He was 81.

He matriculated from Kinston, North Carolina, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his son, Howard Pierce (Linda), and grandchildren, Virginia and James.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Lorene Pierce, and first wife, Janet Pierce.

Berkley G. Adkins Jr. ’63 Berkley Green Adkins Jr. ’63 of Hayes, Virginia, died Oct. 17, 2021. He was 80.

He matriculated from Danville, Virginia, and spent more than one year at VMI. He is survived by his son, Joshua Adkins.

He was preceded in death by his son, Berkley Adkins III.

David L. McKee ’63 David Lee McKee ’63 of Vienna, Virginia, died Aug. 23, 2021. He was 79.

He matriculated from Williamsport, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in physics from VMI. He earned a Master of Science degree from the Naval Postgraduate School.

He is survived by his wife, Judith (Everett); sons, Douglas and Matthew; daughter, Catherine Sribar; grandchildren, Allison, Austin, Mark, Ryan, Trevor, Alexa, Aspen, and David; great-grandchildren, Benjamin and Henry; daughters-in-law, Julie and Margot; and son-in-law, Val.

Robert E. Spence Jr. ’63 Robert Earl Spence Jr. ’63 of Venice, Florida, died Oct. 18, 2021. He was 80.

He matriculated from Portsmouth, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

Charles T. Cole ’64 Charles Taylor Cole ’64 of Roanoke, Virginia, died Aug. 5, 2021. He was 80.

He matriculated from Martinsville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Ellen Arledge; their sons, Thomas Brady Arledge Cole and Steven Carter Arledge Cole; son, Charles Taylor Cole Jr. (Hobby); daughter, Elizabeth Carrington Cole Madden (Andrew); grandchildren, Charles Taylor Holmes Cole, Charles Donovan Madden, Anne Carter Madden, and John Franklin Cutler Cole; sister, Cary Cole Happe (Bill); and sister-in-law, Betsy Carper Cole.

He was preceded in death by his brother, William Cutler Cole III.

Hugh Fuller ’64 Hugh Fuller ’64 of Baileys Crossroads, Virginia, died June 23, 2021. He was 78.

He matriculated from McLean, Virginia, and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from American University.

He is survived by his wife, Georgia Elaine; children, H. Robinson Shaw-Fuller, Teresa E. Fuller; grandchildren, Nathan, Becca, and Daniel; and siblings, Robert W. Fuller IV, Sally F. Sutton, and Nancy M. Fuller.

James P. Whitaker ’64 Retired U.S. Army Lt. Col. James Patton “Pat” Whitaker ’64 of Omaha, Nebraska, died Oct. 20, 2021. He was 80.

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Taps He matriculated from Midland, Texas, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from the University of Kansas.

He is survived by his wife, Sally, and son, Nash.

James C. Farley Jr. ’65 James Cheever Farley Jr. ’65 of Richmond, Virginia, died Sept. 21, 2021. He was 78.

He matriculated from Richmond and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Richmond and a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his wife, Lynn Llewellyn Farley; sons, James “Cheever” Farley III (Anna Pearsall Farley) and Taylor Llewellyn Farley (Kristen Dize Farley); grandchildren, James Cheever Farley IV and Virginia Jean Farley; and sister, Sara Farley Goodwin.

Norman E. Land Jr. ’65 Norman Earl Land Jr. ’65, Ph.D., of Columbia, Missouri, died Sept. 19, 2021. He was 78.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and spent more than one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and Master of Arts and Doctor of Philosophy degrees from the University of Virginia.

He is survived by his son, William Parker Riley-Land (Sarah); daughter, Sarah Elizabeth “Fuffy” Riley-Land (Chris Prenger); granddaughter, Della; brother, A. Parker Land (Susan); and sister, Kay E. (Land) Lutz (Glen).

He was preceded in death by his brother, Paul C. Land.

William L. Mowll III ’65 William Luther Mowll III ’65 of Lewes, Delaware, died Aug. 5, 2021. He was 78.

He matriculated from Bear, Delaware, and spent two years at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Pat; daughters, Jennifer Mazzola (Gregory) and Penelope Baker (Thomas); grandchildren, Lauren, Jessica, Timothy, and Katherine; step-daughters, Melanie Switzer (Larry) and Lea Wolf (Jeffrey); step-grandchildren, Zachary, Allison, Samantha, and Eric; and brother, Charlie Mowll.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Joan E. (Mowll) Patton.

Donald T. White ’65 Donald Thomas “Donny” White ’65 of

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Montpelier, Virginia, died Aug. 17, 2021.

He matriculated from Hampton, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in civil engineering from VMI. He earned a Master of Education degree from Lynchburg College.

(Editor’s Note: An extended obituary for White appears in the In Memory section of this issue.)

Harley W. Duane III ’67 Harley Wentworth Duane III ’67 of Richmond, Virginia, died Aug. 23, 2021. He was 76.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from Washington and Lee University.

He is survived by his wife, Laurel; children, Townsend E. Duane and Christopher E. Duane ’08; daughter-in-law, Summer; grandson, Morgan E. Duane; sister, Jane D. Neal (Weldon); and mother-in-law, Dorothy A. Zunt.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Mary Feild Duane.

Thomas L. Engelman ’67 Thomas Lawrence Engelman ’67 of Romney, West Virginia, died Oct. 2, 2021. He was 75.

He matriculated from Coconut Grove, Florida, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in biology from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Jean Parker; daughter, Amelia Grace Engelman; and mother-in-law, Betty Jean Parker.

Robert N. Berezoski ’68 Robert Nicholas Berezoski ’68, M.D., of Charlottesville, Virginia, died Sept. 1, 2021.

He was 76.

He matriculated from Annandale, 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.

He is survived by six children, 11 grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Clements T. Berezoski Jr., and sister, Kendall Calhoun Berezoski Miller.

Charles S. Brightwell ’68 Charles Slaughter Brightwell ’68 of Walterboro, South Carolina, died Sept. 18, 2021.

He was 75.

He matriculated from Charleston, South Carolina, and spent more than two years at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from the University of South Carolina.

He is survived by his wife, Gary Hagood Brightwell; sons, Charles “Chad” Brightwell (Julie) and Andrew “Drew” Brightwell (Leigh); and grandchildren, Harris, John, Caroline, and Mary Brightwell.

He was preceded in death by his brother, William Archer Brightwell.

Michael J. Visnicky ’69 Michael Joseph Visnicky ’69 of Bridgeport, Connecticut, died Jan. 2, 2021. He was 73.

He matriculated from Trumbull, Connecticut, and spent less than one month at VMI. He is survived by his sister, Irene C. Visnicky.

Stephen C. Fogleman ’71 Stephen Carr Fogleman ’71 of Alexandria, Virginia, died Aug. 26, 2021. He was 72.

He matriculated from Alexandria and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Virginia and a Juris Doctor degree from George Mason University.

Irvin C. Murray III ’72 Irvin Clay Murray III ’72 of Fairfax, Virginia, died June 16, 2021. He was 70.

He matriculated from Oxon Hill, Maryland, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Susan White Murray; children, David Murray and Beth Murray Olibah; grandchildren, Zaina, Leena, and Taye Olibah; parents, Gladys Cook Murray and Irvin Clay Murray Jr.; and siblings, Christopher Murray, Shane Murray, and Linda Kavanaugh.

Douglas R. Brown ’73 Douglas Rafford Brown ’73 of Waldorf, Maryland, died Oct. 7, 2021. He was 70.

He matriculated from Wilmington, Delaware, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Melinda Sutton Brown; sons, Stewart Christopher Brown (Eileen), Trevor Franklin Brown (Lizzie), and Kirby William Brown (Emily); grandsons, Isaac William and Peter Wade; and sister, Patricia Bailey (Tom).

VMI Alumni Review

Taps Peter H. Coley ’74 Peter Henley Coley ’74 of Norfolk, Virginia, died Aug. 1, 2018. He was 66.

He matriculated from Norfolk and spent less than one month at VMI. He is survived by his sister, Jean Coley Townsend, and brother, Kent James Coley.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Paula.

Karl D. Liebrich ’74 Karl Derlyn Liebrich ’74 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died April 30, 2018. He was 66.

He matriculated from Dix Hills, New Jersey, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in electrical engineering from VMI. He is survived by his sister, Liz A. Liebrich, and brother, Geoff Liebrich (Bonnie).

Gary S. Lyman ’74 Gary Scott Lyman ’74 of Fairfax, Virginia, died Jan. 27, 2018. He was 65.

He matriculated from Falls Church, Virginia, and spent more than one year at VMI. He is survived by his former wife, Kathleen.

Leslie E. Morgan Jr. ’74 Leslie Evan Morgan Jr. ’74 of Richmond, Virginia, died July 15, 2018. He was 66.

He matriculated from Richmond and spent two years at VMI. He is survived by his children, Leslie (Robyn) and Shaun (Ann), and grandchildren, Leslie (Liem), Brayden, and Bobby Kaminski; Justin and Steven Mott; and Alexis, Cameron, and Tiffany Morgan.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Faye.

Richard R. Remensnyder ’74 Richard Robert Remensnyder ’74 of Boones Mill, Virginia, died July 23, 2019. He was 66.

He matriculated from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He is survived by his sister, Carol Green.

Larry W. Sours ’74 Larry William Sours ’74 of Fredericksburg, Virginia, died Aug. 27, 2019. He was 68.

He matriculated from Fredericksburg and spent one year at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Alice; children, Corey (Becky), Emily (Ed), and Justin (Jean); grandchildren, Senja, Kayla, Aidan, Mayumi, and Biboy; mother, Jeannette Marks; siblings, Donnie (Debbie), Steve, and Linda; sisters-in-law,

2022-Issue 1

Jeanne and Carolyn; and brother-in-law, George.

Robert C. Trebilcock ’74 Robert Cecil Trebilcock ’74 of Pickens, South Carolina, died Oct. 21, 2020. He was 68.

He matriculated from Des Plaines, Illinois, and spent one year at VMI. He is survived by his son, Mikal (Morgan); step-father, Bob Carroll; brothers, Dana (Tina) and Danny (Irene); and sisters, Barbie and Gail (Greg).

He was preceded in death by his wife, Judy.

Anthony W. Fiero Jr. ’75 Anthony Walter Fiero Jr. ’75 of Stony Brook, New York, died Aug. 2, 2021. He was 67.

He matriculated from Valley Stream, New York, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Holley; sons, Steven Fiero and Michael Fiero; daughters, Donna Sadler (Troy) and Christina DelMedico (Brian); and siblings, Diana Iannacone, Leana Aull, and Marisa Fiero.

Richard L. Tuell ’78 Richard Lynn “Rich” Tuell ’78 of Red Lion, Pennsylvania, died Sept. 3, 2021. He was 65.

He matriculated from Oxon Hill, Maryland, and spent one year at VMI. He earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from James Madison University.

He is survived by his wife, Tina; children, Justin (Karoline) and Kristen; grandchildren, Nikolletta and Julian Pearson; step-son, Christopher Pearson (Jocelyn); mother, Betty Jo; and brother, John.

Matthew J. Garten ’84 Matthew James Garten ’84 of Arlington, Virginia, died Oct. 27, 2021. He was 59.

He matriculated from Lynchburg, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from VMI. He is survived by his sisters, Jane Garten and Paula Bracken, and brother-in-law, David Bracken.

Oscar R. Williams ’88 Oscar Renal Williams ’88, Ph.D., of Colonie, New York, died Sept. 13, 2021. He was 55.

He matriculated from Chester, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a master’s degree in

history from Virginia State University and a Doctor of Philosophy degree from The Ohio State University.

He is survived by his wife, Stephanie A. Williams; son, Jackson G. Williams; mother, Marjorie M. Williams; sisters, Teresa Williams Wicks (Leonard) and Iris Williams-Kareem (Gamal); mother-in-law, Pollie (James) Stovall; and in-laws, Latonya McCray, April Glass, Rita Glass (Greg), Vanessa Eason, Veronica Word, Paula Mulder-Stovall, Glenda White, Lanny McCalvin (Alicia), Billie Stovall (Diane), and Freddie Stovall (Pam).

Jason D. Nicholls ’94 Jason David Nicholls ’94 of Fairfax, Virginia, died Aug. 7, 2021. He was 49.

He matriculated from Fairfax Station, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in English from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Beth Nicholls, and daughter, Charlotte Nicholls.

Mark Q. Emick Jr. ’96 Mark Quentin Emick Jr. ’96 of Virginia Beach, Virginia, died Sept. 7, 2021. He was 47.

He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia.

He was a distinguished graduate of VMI and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from the Institute. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from Dickinson School of Law. He is survived by his daughter, Riley; sons, Tyler and Jacob; parents, Mark and Linda Emick; and sister, Melissa Allard (Mark).

Travis N. George ’96 Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Travis Nathan George ’96 of Castle Rock, Colorado, died Oct. 24, 2021. He was 47.

He matriculated from Roanoke, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. He is survived by his wife, Stacy; children, Jackson and Samantha; and sisters, Nicole (Craig Andersen) and Ashley (Christopher Theimer).

Jeremy D. Roberts ’98 Jeremy David Roberts ’98 of Glen Allen, Virginia, died Aug. 4, 2021. He was 46.

He matriculated from Richmond, Virginia, and spent more than two years at VMI. He is survived by his mother, Bonnie Roberts Webb (Tom), and sister, Lani Gilliam (Steve).

He was preceded in death by his father, Wilson David Roberts Jr.

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Taps Tyler S. Reedy ’11 Tyler Scott Reedy ’11 of Miami Beach, Florida, died Aug. 25, 2021. He was 33.

He matriculated from Canton, Georgia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He is survived by his mother, Kathryn C. Reedy; father, Mike Reedy; brother, Dillon Spencer Reedy; and grandmothers, Kathryn Conoly and Helen G. Reedy.

VMI Family Dan B. Andrews Dan Beasley Andrews of Nashville, Tennessee, died Sept. 10, 2021. He was 94.

He was a supporter of VMI and a member of the Institute Society.

He is survived by his sons, Dan Beasley Andrews Jr. (Sherry) and William Mark Lyle Andrews; grandchildren, Sarah Andrews Benton (Clark) and Margaret Blakely Andrews;

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great-grandson, William Clark Benton; and sister, Bettie Andrews Lundy.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Roberta Neblett Andrews, and son, Ward Neblett Andrews.

Louis H. Carter Louis Hunter Carter of Brownsburg, Virginia, died Oct. 5, 2021. He was 81.

He formerly worked at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Alice; daughters, Sara (Henry) and Tammy (Gordon); siblings, Warren, Dora “Ann” (Paul), Barbara (JR), and Isabelle (Keith); grandchildren, Marisa (James), Deonte, and Khloe; and greatgrandchildren, Nalani.

He was preceded in death by his brother, Charles Carter.

Marlyse K. Fitzpatrick Marlyse Reine Rose Alphonsine Kinder Fitzpatrick of Richmond, Virginia, died Sept.

5, 2021. She was 94.

She formerly worked as a secretary at VMI. She is survived by her daughters, Yvonne McGuffin (Ron), Susie Harris (Cliff), and Fitz Fitzpatrick; son, Dr. Michael Fitzpatrick (Jan);

grandchildren, Chris McGuffin (Stephanie), Tim McGuffin (Katie), Kelly Harris Moore (Adam), and Chad Harris (Becca); and greatgrandchildren, Joshua, Luke, Cade, Rose, Faith, Noelle, Charlie, Lydia, and Nate.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Bill.

Kerwin C. Stotz Kerwin C. “Bud” Stotz of Charlottesville, Virginia, died Oct. 3, 2021. He was 91.

He formerly taught at VMI. He is survived by his wife, Norma (deRoos) Stotz, and brothers, Edward and Douglas Stotz.

Leroy Watts Leroy Watts of Lexington, Virginia, died July 29, 2021. He was 93.

He formerly worked at VMI. He is survived by his daughters, Laura W. Davis (Ken) and Alice T. Watts; eight grandchildren; 17 great-grandchildren; and brother, Francis “Pickle” Watts.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Naomi R. Watts; son, Theodore T. Watts; and daughter, Rosa W. Haston.

VMI Alumni Review

After Taps Henry C. Pitot III ’51

By David S. Wilkinson ’67

I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Henry C. Pitot ’51, who passed away June 9, 2021, at the age of 91. After graduating from VMI in 1967, I had the distinct honor of becoming a graduate student under Dr. Pitot at the University of Wisconsin, following in the footsteps of my VMI dyke, Lee Fleshood ’64, Ph.D. The three of us shared the VMI experience and organic chemistry under Col. Herbert Richey. In 1967, Dr. Pitot was a young, up-and-coming cancer researcher at the McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research.

Over the next six years, he would move on to become professor of pathology and oncology;

chair of the department of pathology; acting dean of the medical school; and director of the McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, a position that he held from 1973-91. Despite being a world-famous researcher, teacher, and author, Dr. Pitot was a humble and patient mentor. He was a great role model for me and was a huge influence on shaping my scientific and leadership skills.

Dr. Pitot mentored more than 100 graduate students and postdoctoral trainees who went on to productive careers in academic or industrial research. He taught thousands of undergraduate, graduate, and medical students during his

60-plus years at the University of Wisconsin. Dr. Pitot carried out groundbreaking research in the molecular biology of multistage carcinogenesis and published more than 500 scientific papers.

He played a major role in formulating cancer research policy in the United States, serving on the board of directors of the American Cancer Society, the National Cancer Advisory Board, and the president’s Cancer Panel. He served on the editorial boards of 13 professional journals and won numerous awards for his work.

The world has lost a great man whose kindness and willingness to help others will be missed by many.

Col. William L. Faistenhammer ’74

By Wayland “Snookie” Parker ’74

William L. Faistenhammer ’74, known to his BRs as Bill, was born in Fort Benning, Georgia, to retired U.S. Army Col. Ludwig Faistenhammer of York, Pennsylvania, and the late Maria Damenica (Barbaro) Faistenhammer. All who knew Bill understood that he adored his family, his country, and his calling; his dedication to his country and service was a recurring theme throughout his life.

Those early years prepared him well to take on the rigors of VMI and later military service, but as one friend and BR noted, Bill “did VMI his way.”

He was a good student, self-confident, focused, meticulous, strong-willed, and in tremendous physical condition because when it came to physical fitness, Bill was relentless and enthusiastic in his workouts.

In fact, Bill was a standout in everything he undertook at VMI. He excelled as a team player on the swim team and always volunteered for the hardest races. Coach Joyce knew him as the go-to guy in events that other swimmers hadn’t specialized in or when someone was needed to compete in events that were scheduled too close to each other for those specialists. Bill was often identified as the “tough nut” on the team because he attacked every race and opponent with

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determination and zeal throughout his cadetship.

His ability to perform under pressure enabled the team to take on and win swim meets against much larger teams from UVA and Duke.

A four-year private, Bill received few demerits and generally kept a low profile at VMI, but his 30-year U.S. Army career included special forces combat zone assignments, achieving the rank of colonel, and culminating in his final military assignment as professor of military science at VMI and commander of the ROTC detachment—an assignment which brought him back to VMI and the Blue Ridge Valley he loved. Following retirement, Bill deployed to Afghanistan for an additional four years of service. Bill had tremendous leadership skills, and he put them to good use throughout his life.

One BR recalled a visit to the special forces group back in the ’80s, at Fort Devens, Massachusetts, and seeing the commander’s pictures on a wall at the group headquarters. There was a picture of Bill commanding one of the special forces companies. Instead of his name under the picture, it read in bold, block letters: “THE HAMMER.” He was a legend in the group—which is likely not a surprise to his BRs. He further recalled that Bill’s father commanded the 10th SFG(A)

in Bad Tölz, Germany; thus, Bill’s service there must’ve been especially meaningful to him and almost a family tradition.

Another BR shared that Bill was bigger than life. He was bold, tough, aggressive, and a natural leader. He was one of the finest examples of a VMI man, and all were privileged to call him brother rat.

Bill’s three-year roommate, Gary Lape ’74, passed in August 2020. Gary’s brother, “Salvo,” Class of ’75, shared that some years ago, Gary’s wife, Lee Ann, said the two were like frick and frack or two peas in a pod, noting that they dressed alike, enjoyed similar jokes, and even danced alike.

Salvo also shared that during a visit to Lexington a few years ago, Bill said he didn’t see himself ever leaving the Shenandoah Valley. It is now a fond memory—tempered by the heartache of a vibrant, full, happy life ended way too soon—yet reinforced by knowing that Bill’s spirit will be there always.

We say goodbye to Bill; thank him for his joy of life, enthusiasm, and quiet kindness; and share our sympathy with his beloved wife, Linda; son, Bill; his father, William; and all his family and friends.

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Alumni News Iustitia, the Polish Judges’ Association, elected the Hon. John M. “Johnny Mac” Marshall ’65 as an honorary member in September 2021. Iustitia has more than 3,000 members and is similar to the Judicial Section and Texas Center for the Judiciary in Texas.

Also, in 2021, the AI & Society: Knowledge, Culture and Communication journal published an article Marshall wrote titled “Technoevidence: The ‘Turing Limit.’” The article discusses technology’s impact on basic courtroom evidentiary issues.

Marshall has served as a judge in several Texas districts and courts, including the Municipal Court of Muenster, the 14th Judicial District, the Dallas County Emergency Medical-Legal Project, and the Sabine Valley Child Protection Court. He is a senior life fellow of the College of State Bar of Texas. He was the honorary professor of the university at the Marie Curie-Sklodowska University in 2004 and has taught a course on American legal studies at the university since 1993. Marshall is a member of the International Academy of Astronautics (elected 1999), a senior life fellow of the College of State Bar of Texas, and the North Texas Mensa president.

Marshall matriculated from Dallas, Texas, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree in history from Vanderbilt University, a Juris Doctor degree from Southern Methodist University, and a Doctor of Laws degree from Academia Mexicana de Derecho Internacional.

George L. Newton III ’66 was nominated for the USA Unified Martial Arts Hall of Fame. The hall of fame recognizes people who have made outstanding contributions in martial arts fields in the U.S. Newton began judo in 1951 when he was 6 years old and won many junior and senior judo tournaments as a youth. He was featured in Sports Illustrated and was a member of the U.S. Air Force Judo Exhibition team. At VMI, Newton formed and coached the VMI college judo club, which won numerous competitions during his cadetship. After graduation, Newton entered the U.S. Air Force and won many judo titles while in the Air Force. He was selected for the U.S. Military National Judo Team for the USA Amateur Athletic Union Championships and won the 1976 Far East Judo Light Heavy Weight and Overall Grand Championship. Newton has also coached the

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sport. He is a life member and board member of the United States Ju-Jitsu Federation and the USA Traditional Kodokan Judo, a life member of the Panamerican Jiu-Jitsu Federation, member of the USJJF and USA-TKJ National Technical Promotion Committee, member of the USA Ju-Jitsu Senior Masters Caucus, and an international ambassador representative for USJJF and USA-TKJ. Newton matriculated from Bedford, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology from VMI. He earned two Master of Science degrees—one from Auburn University and one from the University of North Dakota.

The U.S. Naval War College named Thomas C. Linn ’73 a distinguished fleet professor in August 2021. Rear Adm. Shoshana S. Chatfield, NWC president, presented the award to Linn Aug. 2, 2021, in a virtual faculty cloister.

There are more than 60 professors in the college’s fleet seminar program, and the award is presented annually to one of them.

Linn has been a professor at NWC for 25 years, teaching theater security decision-making with a primary focus on the Indo-Pacific theater. His course has had an increasing emphasis on emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, China, and space security.

Linn also taught in the Pentagon for almost 20 years and in the Center for Naval Analysis. His students include personnel from all military services, the White House, the office of the Director of National Intelligence, the National Security Agency, the Central Intelligence Agency, the Department of State, and U.S. Congress staff.

Linn matriculated from Dallas, Texas, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He also earned a Master of Arts degree in national security studies from Georgetown University and graduated with distinction from the Naval War College. He is a retired U.S. Marine Corps lieutenant colonel with service in Cambodia, Vietnam, and Iraq.

Linn and his wife, Jannie “Buckaroo,” live in Lexington, Virginia, where he continues to teach in support of the National Institute of Standards and Technology in its work on the Internet of Things, as well as at the Naval War College and the U.S. Army War College.

On Oct. 7, 2021, G.M. Defense LLC, a subsidiary of General Motors, announced retired U.S. Army Lt. Gen. John D. “J.D.” Johnson ’77 as vice president of business development.

He is responsible for identifying growth opportunities with government and military customers that align with G.M. Defense’s core capabilities. The capabilities include power and propulsion, integrated vehicles, and autonomy and mobility. Johnson will also develop strategic plans to win competitive pursuits in government and defense markets nationally and internationally.

Johnson was in the U.S. Army for 35-plus years. He held many senior positions, including Eighth Army commander in the Republic of Korea and Department of Defense Joint Improvised Explosive Device Defeat Organization director. After retiring from the Army, Johnson held leadership positions at Raytheon. Most recently, he was the customer engagement and solutions acting vice president. His other positions at Raytheon include vice president of both U.S. Government Integrated Solutions for Raytheon Intelligence & Space and of Business Development for U.S. Army and Special Operations.

G.M. Defense delivers mobility and autonomy, power and propulsion, and integrated vehicles to defense, government, and security markets worldwide.

Johnson matriculated from Tulsa, Oklahoma, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in history from VMI. He earned a Master of Arts degree from the School of Advanced Military Studies, a Master of Arts degree from the U.S. Command and General Staff College, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the Army War College.

John M. “Mac” Curtis ’79 joined Blue Delta Capital Fellows as a venture fellow in October 2021. In his new position, Curtis will help explore new investment opportunities, help portfolio companies scale up through organic growth and tuck-in acquisitions, and assimilate talent.

Curtis is the former chairman of the board, president, and chief executive officer of Perspecta, which operates now as part of Peraton as a public government services technology contractor. He is also a seven-time Wash100 winner. During his time at Perspecta, he transformed it into a $7.1 billion company, which Veritas Capital acquired in May 2021. Curtis helped establish Perspecta after merging his company, Vencore, with DXC Technology’s public sector business and KeyPoint Government Solutions.

Curtis matriculated from Norfolk, Virginia,

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI. Several VMI alumni are involved with the medical center addition and alterations project at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. The project began in 2016 and is scheduled for completion in 2028.

VMI alumni working with the MCAA project are Billy Jaeger ’07, Navy Facilities Engineering Command Bethesda design team lead; Mike Werner ’06, NAVFAC Bethesda hospital construction management specialist; U.S. Navy Capt. Greg Vinci ’93, regional engineer and NAVFAC Washington commander; U.S. Army Col. Anthony Meador ’95, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center chief of staff; Beau Cook ’83, NAVFAC Bethesda engineering technician lead; Tom Pierpoint ’15, Clark Construction superintendent; and U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Jimmy Angerman ’06, NAVFAC Bethesda public works officer.

The project is multi-phased and will replace or renovate outdated portions of WRNMMC. It involves significant renovations and demolitions, as well as building temporary space to house departments during transitions between old and new facilities. The medical center will continue to provide quality, safe care and will

was recently promoted to professor remain fully functional during the of medicine for the Mayo Clinic MCAA project.

School of Medicine. Since 2012, he The project will add hundreds has served as the chair of the Diviof thousands of upgraded square sion of Endocrinology at the Mayo feet to the medical center. The adClinic in Jacksonville, Florida. The ditional space will improve medical U.S. News & World Report ranked center operations and patient care the Jacksonville Mayo Clinic in the and experience. Improvements will top 30 nationally for endocrine and include providing natural light for diabetes care. patients, staff, and visitors; singlepatient rooms and family zones; Bernet ’85 Bernet matriculated from Richmond, Virginia. He was a distininfrastructure to support information technology platforms; flexible, modular clinic guished graduate of VMI, earning a Bachelor space; and clear signage and visual cues to of Science degree in biology and a Doctor of help patients, staff, and visitors navigate the Medicine degree from the University of Virfacility. The project will also bring a basement- ginia. He lives in Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, level, north-to-south pedestrian connector to with his wife, Alicia. continue safe operations and facilitate personWork-Relay announced the promotion of nel movement during the project. Over the course of the project, more than 100 depart- Kramer W. Reeves ’89 from chief marketments and clinics will transition and relocate ing officer to chief executive officer Oct. 21, 2021. Work-Relay is a native Salesforce.com to different spaces. application for streamlining the operational Victor J. Bernet ’85, M.D., completed business processes and projects that define service as the American Thyroid Association how an organization gets work done. Before president for the 2020-21 governance year. Work-Relay, Reeves was the chief marketing The ATA consists of 1,700-plus physician officer, director, and global head of marketing and scientist members from 43 countries for IBM Automation. There, he was instrudedicated to improving care for patients with mental in building the brand and executing thyroid disease and thyroid cancer. Bernet an end-to-end marketing strategy for the $2.5 billion IBM automation mission.

Reeves matriculated from Stanardsville, Virginia, and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in civil engineering from VMI.

VMI alumni supporting the medical center addition and alterations project at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center are (from left) Billy Jaeger ’07, Navy Facilities Engineering Command Bethesda design team lead; Mike Werner ’06, NAVFAC Bethesda hospital construction management specialist; U.S. Navy Capt. Greg Vinci ’93, regional engineer and NAVFAC Washington commander; U.S. Army Col. Anthony Meador ’95, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center chief of staff; Beau Cook ’83, NAVFAC Bethesda engineering technician lead; Tom Pierpoint ’15, Clark Construction superintendent; and U.S. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Jimmy Angerman ’06, NAVFAC Bethesda public works officer.

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Charles E. Bayless ’95 was named senior vice president and general counsel for North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives in September 2021. He succeeds Rick Feathers, who retired after 18 years of service. North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives encompass the family of organizations that provides wholesale power, materials, energy services, and trade association to the state’s 26 local electric distribution cooperatives. The cooperatives collectively serve the energy needs for 1 million homes and businesses in 93 North Carolina counties.

Bayless has been an integral part of North Carolina’s Electric Cooperatives legal team since 2010 and was serving as the vice president and senior regulatory counsel before being appointed to succeed Feathers.

He matriculated from Tucson, Arizona, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from VMI. He earned

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Alumni News in line with JE Dunn’s encompassing diversity, equity, and inclusion strategies. His responsibilities will include implementing initiatives that produce an inclusive, diverse culture, attracting diverse talent to the company, and facilitating inclusive business practices for minorities and women on construction projects.

JE Dunn announced the hiring of JE Dunn was founded in 1924 and Keith B. Gabriel ’12 as the diversity, equity, and inclusion manager for the Bayless ’95 is one of the country’s largest general building contractors. The company Carolinas. Gabriel will be based in the Charlotte, North Carolina, office. In his has 24 offices throughout the U.S. which provide construction management services. new role, Gabriel will work directly with seGabriel is a native of Charlotte and has nior management and ensure that workforce, marketplace, and workplace initiatives are worked in economic development for the a Master of Science degree from the University of Alaska, a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Arizona, and a Juris Doctor degree from West Virginia University. Bayless also served in the U.S. Air Force for five years.

past six years. He’s specialized in strategic planning across diverse groups, including site consultants, architectural firms, local economic developers, and engineering firms.

Gabriel matriculated from Charlotte and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology from VMI. He will graduate from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Kenan Flagler Business School with a Master of Business Administration and Management in 2022. He serves on the Keydet Club Board of Governors at VMI and the Student Advisory Board at UNC-Chapel Hill Kenan Flagler Business School. He volunteers for Leukemia & Lymphoma Society; Big Brothers, Big Sisters; and Youth Public Speaking.

Book Announcements ... Book Announcements Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ... Book Announcements ...

Proof I Was Here by William Winslow ’61. Outskirts Press, 2021. ISBN: 9781977240965.

Available via Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Target.

The book will certainly appeal to those who care about dogs: Their behaviors, their importance in our lives, and their noble qualities that most of us (including the author) strive unsuccessfully to attain. For those not fixated upon dogs, most poems in this collection address family and the death of family, the Vietnam War, vintage North Carolina postcards in a Haiku format, and other mostly personal observations, including a neighborhood suicide, growing older, autumn, and rain.

About the Author: William Winslow lives with his wife, Susan Lewis, and two dogs in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina. Originally from Winter Park, Florida, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from VMI. He served a tour in Vietnam, for which he received the Bronze Star Medal. He earned a Master of Science degree in public administration from the University of Missouri. Winslow is a member of the Poetry Society of South Carolina and has had several competitively selected poems appear in that organization’s annual yearbooks.

He is a longtime member of the Academy of American Poets.

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Civilization at Risk: Seeds of Strife, Second Edition by Ron D. Petitte ’65. Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 2021. ISBN: 9781527564541. Available via Amazon and the publisher.

A devastating human rights war has unfolded with precious few warriors to combat it, let alone stem the brutal injustice of Holocaust dimensions. If there is any scourge that puts civilization at risk, it is the malignant disregard for the human rights of millions of people who suffer slavery and inhumane treatment at the hands of fellow human beings. With 30 million people in slavery today, 30 million seeds of strife have been sown, as the souls of these victims are seared beyond human recognition.

Human trafficking cannot be combated by indifference or ignorance but by the education of people worldwide to awaken them to this 21st century scourge and instill in people across the globe the courage and determination to stand and fight this evil.

The book offers an immediate call to arms to fight the evil that the human slaver wages against any attempts to create a just and benevolent civilization. As the pen is mightier than the sword, so,

... Book ... Book

too, this book cuts to the quick to confront and dispel any efforts to mitigate the horrors of the 21st century holocaust that is human trafficking.

About the Author: Ron D. Petitte, D.P.A., retired at the end of the spring 2019 academic semester from Bryan College, in Dayton, Tennessee, after 25 years of service to become a full-time writer. He was honored with the title dean emeritus—the first time a dean has been so recognized

by Bryan College. Petitte served as dean of the Bryan College Honors Institute, which included the Center for Leadership & Justice. While at Bryan, Petitte served as a tenured, full professor of politics and government. A retired U.S. Army colonel with 30 years of training and service, Petitte is a graduate of Virginia Military Institute.

He served as a technical advisor for 20th Century Fox on the Academy Award-winning film, “Patton.” He earned his master’s and doctoral degrees at Central Michigan and Golden Gate Universities, respectively. Petitte is a recipient of the George Washington Honor Medal, awarded by the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge, Pennsylvania. He was selected as teacher of the year by Bryan College and recognized with dual awards for his teaching abilities by the American Political Science Association and the National Political Science Honor Society. Petitte was chosen Scholar of the Year by Bryan College for “Civilization at Risk:

VMI Alumni Review

Alumni News Seeds of Strife,” published in 2013 by Cambridge Scholars Publishing in England. The second and final work in his Civilization at Risk series, “Seeds of War,” was released by CSP in 2016.

Cambridge Scholars recently selected Petitte to serve as an editorial advisory board member to assist CSP in their publishing ventures. Invited to sit at the Oxford Round Table in England on three occasions, Petitte gave papers at three Oxford University Colleges as part of the round table. Petitte’s doctoral dissertation, “One Hundred Years of Leadership in Administration,” was selected for inclusion in the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and the George C. Marshall Research Library. Petitte and his wife reside in Dayton, Tennessee; they have four daughters, two granddaughters, and a grandson.

Stewards of Humanity: Lighting the Darkness in Humanitarian Crisis by Robert Séamus Macpherson ’68. Light Messages Torchflame Books, 2021. ISBN: 9781611534146 and 9781611534153. Available via Amazon, Apple Books, and Barnes & Noble.

When the world turns away from the horrors of war, genocide, famine, and natural disasters, the stewards of humanity quietly move toward the suffering. They stand as a thin line between life and death for thousands of people who will never know their stories. These stewards are neither heroes nor saints—they are ordinary people with ordinary struggles who rise to extraordinary challenges.

However, they have one thing in common. They are inspirational and persuasive leaders. This is a book about people who save lives without the support of governments and large institutions by stepping outside the norms of textbook leadership and adapting “what will work” amid the chaos and incomprehensible destruction. These are the “everyday people” who never receive medals, media accolades, or public recognition. They are women and men who made a difference in situations the world ignored.

With an unflinching view into some of the worst humanitarian crises of our lifetime, the author—U.S. Marine Corps combat veteran turned aid worker—tells the stories of the people who have courageously confronted evil and injustice from Somalia to Bosnia, Rwanda, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Throughout his narrative, he

2022-Issue 1

challenges us to consider our place in humanity and our own role as stewards.

About the Author: Before becoming a full-time author, Macpherson was a humanitarian aid worker and a career U.S. Marine, as well as a small business owner, serving as chief executive officer of Cosantóir Group, which focuses on organizational risk reduction and mitigation for the humanitarian community.

Previously, as a senior leader of CARE for 15 years, he directed global risk mitigation, protection, and human rights issues, in addition to leading emergency response missions around the world. In this role, he engaged with traditional actors, including the United Nations, as well as non-traditional authorities— such as the Taliban in Afghanistan, the Maoists in Nepal, and local militias throughout central and east Africa—to gain humanitarian access.

He has published several articles on risk reduction and response and authored two op-eds for The Washington Post, “Hope for a Changed Somalia” and “Stop the Slaughter.”

He has testified before the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations on “Exploring a Comprehensive Stabilization, Reconstruction, and Counter-terrorism Strategy for Somalia” and served as an advisor to the U.S. National Security Council. He is a former board member of the International Nongovernmental Organization Safety & Security Association and Global Rights, the international organization that promotes women’s human rights and combats discrimination based on race, ethnicity, or sexual orientation.

Prior to transitioning to the international humanitarian field, Macpherson enjoyed a distinguished career as a U.S. Marine Corps officer. He is a former colonel with service in Vietnam, Somalia, and Iraq. He earned his undergraduate degree from VMI and an advanced degree in international affairs and strategic studies from the Australian Defence University.

He is the recipient of four awards for valor as a member of the U.S. Marine Corps.

Off Winchester by Paul Curs ’69. Paul Curs, 2021. ISBN: 9781639010738. Available via Apple Books.

This book is a memoir of 50 years as a military, corporate, and airline pilot. History buffs will enjoy the flying details. Aspiring pilots looking forward to an aviation career will learn more about those three types of flying. The book has 112 short stories and 104 images to enhance the stories. The author flew on five continents. You will read about the author’s dogged pursuit of military pilot wings at VMI, his year as a combat forward air controller over the Ho Chi Minh Trail in Laos, and further assignments during 30 years of Air Force and Air National Guard affiliation.

Stories also came from flying as a corporate pilot for a major international oil company based in New York and a sheik in Saudi Arabia. Airline stories as a first officer, captain, first officer (again), and check airman (for two airlines that had a contentious merger) involve career decisions and unforgettable operational situations. All proceeds go to military charity.

About the Author: Paul Curs is a member of the VMI Class of 1969. In October 2019, he received the Wright Brothers Master Pilot Award for 50 years of safe and incident-free flying. The award is the highest given to a pilot by the FAA. In his career, he piloted airplanes to 52 countries and over another 25, flew 34 aircraft variants, and operated into 94 U.S. and 88 foreign airports. As a Vietnam volunteer, Curs flew 242 combat sorties and 596 combat hours. Much of his career involved flight instruction and evaluation. He flew as a T-38 jet instructor pilot for the Air Force and an O-2A prop instructor pilot and Standardization Flight Examiner for the Air National Guard. The FAA designated him as a pilot proficiency examiner on two corporate jets and as an all-program designee on the Boeing 737 series. He is a retired U.S. Air Force Reserve colonel and retired airline captain.

Paladins: A Phantom Pilot Comes of Age by Thomas R. Shaw ’78. Thomas R. Shaw, 2021.

ISBN: 9798504594248. Available via Amazon.

This is the fictional story of Nate Carson, a VMI graduate and young Marine pilot and

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Alumni News naval aviator just starting his military career in the early 1980s. Nate suffers a trauma during flight training that provides him the opportunity to find himself in the process of learning to fly and fight the F-4 Phantom. The book includes ripping and realistic flying sequences and immersion into the challenges, dangers, camaraderie, and hilarity of squadron life as it was nearly a half-century ago.

The book includes a section that exposes the reader to terminology, equipment, and jargon used by the brave pilots and radar intercept officers who flew this historic aircraft. Former Phantom pilots and RIOs will recognize and relive their own experiences and the places they worked and played. Those looking at this world from the outside will learn what it was like for those who experienced it.

About the Author: Thomas Shaw is a 1978 VMI graduate and a former U.S. Marine Corps Phantom and Hornet pilot. After 20 years of service, he retired as a lieutenant colonel and worked for another 20 years in the private sector and for veteran support nonprofit organizations. He flew 37 F/A-18 Hornet combat missions in Desert Storm and earned a Single Mission Air Medal (with Combat “V”), four Strike/Flight Air Medals, and a Navy Commendation Medal (with Combat “V”). He was also awarded a Meritorious Service Medal for his subsequent tour with the USMC Aviation Doctrine Division. Now fully retired, he and his wife, Pam, live on a small ranch near San Antonio, Texas, where they spoil their rescued dogs and their grandchildren.

Ancient of Genes by Dan Gallagher ’81. ISBN: 9781737649-03, 9781737649410, 9781737649427. Available via Amazon.

Cloning sheep and chimps was only the beginning. Using fossil gene redemption, geneticist Kevin G. Harrigan experiments with genes from a frozen “Ice Man.” His work prompts Ishmail Mon, Iraqi leader, to provide resources for exciting new research that enables Harrigan’s team to regenerate extinct “cryptids” and human subspecies from the ice ages. But FGR can be the

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basis for genetic weapons of mass destruction, and U.S. intelligence and defense leaders must act.

Radically distinct from “Jurassic Park,” the book shows new megafauna regeneration methods by which the only prophecy held in common among major religions and mythical traditions could manifest: Some form of regeneration of human ancestors and megafauna. Once considered junk DNA, personality genes and other traits archive in lineages.

These genes await a virus vector that targets meiosis to re-express them in all subsequent generations. This can start a resurrection cascade, enabling Mon to ruin enemy genomes, improve his allies’ genes—and inherit the Earth.

Harrigan’s frightening choice can lead to redemption—or the terrifying sunset of humanity!

This is Book 1 in the Ancient Beacon series.

About the Author: Dan Gallagher graduated third among economics majors and simultaneously completed the modern languages curriculum at VMI. He served in the infantry, then as a reservist in a special forces support role, next as a training company commander, and later in a classified Army Research Institute role. Gallagher completed his Master of Business Administration degree at the College of William & Mary in 1986. He and his wife, Laura, married in 1988, loved raising their four children, and assisted both Boy and Girl Scouts through their church. His professional designations included Chartered Financial Consultant and Chartered Life Underwriter (1989), Certified Financial Planner® (1992), and Certified Business Intermediary (2002). His 30-year practice encompassed group and individual benefits, money management, financial plans, business valuation and brokerage, commercial realty, and counseling. He has given

numerous seminars at major employers and other entities. He is the author of a novel, a licensing manual, and numerous articles in journals, such as Virginia Lawyers Weekly, Financial & Estate Planning, and Charlotte Ventures. He recently completed the University of North Carolina graduate teaching program and retired from financial services to work professionally as a writer and educator.

The Encounter: Abiding with God for 40 Days by Jack E. Ditt Jr. ’83. Jack E. Ditt Jr., 2020. ISBN: 1655733338 and 9781655733338. Available via Amazon.

The book is about a most radical 40-day season where the author needed no sleep nor food, only a desire to experience and reciprocate the overwhelming love that he felt from his heavenly father. He experienced firsthand what it means to be a son of God on planet Earth, serving his father with radical, seemingly normal, yet crazy supernatural exploits. He then shares how this experience catapulted him into everyday abundant life occurrences and finally explains theologically speaking what occurred to him during the initial encounter and the many ways that his father has communicated with him. A parallel theme to this story is the importance of having an earthly shepherd and the significance of the meaningful relationships and interactions with our true family of God as we walk out our days on Earth as it is in heaven.

About the Author: Jack E. Ditt Jr. is a former U.S. Air Force aviator and captain. He had a radical transformation after attending the Methodist Church most of his life. He lives with his wife, Stacey, in Shreveport, Louisiana, where they own the Eagle Financial Management Services investment management firm. He matriculated from Annville, Pennsylvania, and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in economics and business from VMI. He earned a Master of Business Administration degree from Louisiana Tech University.

VMI Alumni Review

Top Class Participation There’s still time to invest in the lives of cadets with a gift of any size toward VMI’s top priorities. Annual gifts to the Foundation Fund and the Keydet Club Scholarship Fund provide current use dollars and life shaping experiences.

The fiscal year comes to a close June 30, 2022. Don’t wait to be counted! Support the Corps!

Top Five Classes by Decade for the Second Quarter of Fiscal Year 2021-22 Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

1942-1949C

19.58%

35.47%

1990-1999

10.65%

15.58%

1949B

42.86%

53.33%

1992

10.97%

18.26%

1947

0.00%

50.00%

1991

8.56%

15.83%

1949C

100.00%

50.00%

1993

6.95%

14.23%

1943

33.33%

16.67%

1990

7.99%

13.40%

1948B

0.00%

14.29%

1997

5.31%

12.25%

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

1950A-1959

11.93%

31.24%

1950A

0.00%

50.00%

1957

18.18%

30.86%

1955

10.00%

29.87%

1951

21.74%

29.03%

1952

18.52%

28.13%

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

1960-1969

14.56%

30.59%

1960

19.39%

36.19%

1967

14.29%

31.61%

1968

15.03%

30.77%

1961

10.24%

28.99%

1962

13.16%

26.28%

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

1970-1979

11.51%

24.69%

1970

22.05%

24.37%

1972

9.78%

22.46%

1971

9.30%

20.47%

1978

5.63%

19.53%

1975

21.51%

18.42%

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

1980-1989

7.73%

15.80%

1981

9.73%

15.28%

1980

9.20%

14.84%

1987

8.12%

13.98%

1983

9.43%

13.88%

1985

6.64%

13.49%

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

2000-2009

5.71%

8.28%

2006

12.00%

8.60%

2009

7.75%

8.49%

2002

6.17%

7.11%

2003

4.42%

7.00%

2004

4.74%

6.15%

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

2010-2019

4.31%

5.82%

2012

7.22%

8.99%

2015

4.76%

6.46%

2014

5.38%

4.79%

2013

3.94%

4.19%

2010

3.45%

3.78%

Year(s)

Q1 FY22 (7/1/21 - 9/30/21)

Q2 FY22

2020-2021

0.26%

0.53%

2020

0.79%

0.58%

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